C2523 Zhu Rong
C2523 Zhu Rong
However, Jiang Fann seemed completely unfazed, appearing even more invigorated in this environment. The effectiveness of his Natural Aura might be greatly diminished here, though. Zhu Yan was in a similar state; his fiery red hair seemed to emit a glow under the influence of the Spiritual Strength present, creating a unique sight.
After walking about a hundred feet, the surrounding heat intensified, as if they were approaching the Earth's core. It felt like a space formed by an underground river, but instead of water, it was flowing with magma.
Upon reaching this area, they noticed a figure soaking in a pool of magma. Jiang Fann was taken aback because, despite constantly using his Spiritual Sense, he hadn't detected any life presence here. There was only one explanation: this person's abilities far surpassed his own. Without a doubt, Jiang Fann knew who it was—Zhu Yan's ancestor.
Sensing their presence, the figure turned to look toward the entrance. It was a middle-aged man with short red hair, exuding a commanding presence. Although most of his body was submerged in the magma, his strong, well-defined silhouette was clearly visible, his true power unknown.
Fang Xiang retracted his spiritual strength, clearly wary.
Zhu Yan stepped forward and greeted the elder respectfully. "Elder, I've brought my friend."
The Zhu family elder was observing Jiang Fann, evidently intrigued by the aura Jiang Fann emitted. Not being an alchemist himself, he was particularly interested in Jiang Fann's fire abilities.
"Junior Jiang Fann, greetings, Elder."
"Junior Fang Xiang from the Heaven Pavilion, greetings, Elder."
Jiang Fann sensed a familiar aura from this elder, similar to Xiao Mo's, suggesting that this person was likely at the same level—a top-tier master at the pinnacle of the Reincarnation Stage. In the presence of such a master, Jiang Fann remained humble.
The elder emerged from the magma, stepping onto the shore. His aura was restrained, and he was bare-chested, wearing red spiritual treasure pants that were impervious to flames.
"So, you're Jiang Fann? Can you release the flames you possess for me to see?" The Zhu family elder was straightforward, expressing his request directly.
Zhu Yan felt a bit awkward but couldn't say much in front of the elder, so he looked at Jiang Fann apologetically.
However, Jiang Fann did not refuse. In the next moment, a dazzling golden flame erupted from him, igniting the Heaven Burning Fire. The surrounding fire energies instantly retreated, clearly intimidated.
Jiang Fann absorbed the surrounding fire energy, and under his control, the Heaven Burning Fire's power was significantly enhanced, leaving Zhu Rong, the family elder, quite surprised.
"The ultimate fire! Could this be the legendary Heaven Burning Fire?"
Zhu Rong, a true master of fire, recognized the Heaven Burning Fire immediately. His eyes flickered with intrigue, clearly unsettled by the revelation.
Jiang Fann replied, "It is indeed the Heaven Burning Fire."
"You, at the Dao Understanding Stage, have managed to tame the Heaven Burning Fire. I find it hard to comprehend. During my travels, I've heard legends about this fire. It's said that anyone below the Reincarnation Stage can't withstand its scorching heat, not even those from special lineages. It seems you've achieved a high level of mastery in Fire Arts, though you must have used other means to tame it."
Jiang Fann nodded, "Taming the Heaven Burning Fire was indeed a tough ordeal."
"My name is Zhu Rong. I heard you swore brotherhood with Zhu Yan. You can call me 'Elder' just like he does, and the same goes for that young man."
Before Jiang Fann could respond, Fang Xiang respectfully bowed and said, "Greetings, Elder."
Zhu Rong was one of the top fighters in the realm, even surpassing Fang Xiang's master, so he wasn't about to miss this opportunity.
Jiang Fann also acknowledged, "Elder!"
Zhu Rong looked pleased and said to Jiang Fann, "Even though you're not one of us, you have a remarkable affinity for fire energy. You must have other rare flames, right?"
Jiang Fann nodded, "Rare flames are incredibly helpful in alchemy. As an alchemist, it's only natural I'd seek them out."
"Some? Rare flames are exceptionally scarce. I've traveled extensively and have only encountered them a few times. These divine elements are becoming rarer, so if you've found some, you must have had help. But that's none of my concern!"
"I've heard about how you helped our clan shine at the Dan Sect. You also resolved the trouble caused by that rascal, Zhu Yan. I had him bring you back as a way to repay you. Also, I won't revoke your assumed identities. If you ever find yourselves in real trouble, claiming your connection to Fire Valley might just save your lives."
"Thank you for your concern, but I have another request."
Hearing this, Zhu Yan, who was with Zhu Rong, spoke up, "Ancestor, I mentioned in my message that Jiang Fann needs fire-attributed immortal gold. He saw the gold you brought back and wants to trade for it."
Zhu Rong nodded. "I'm aware. Immortal gold isn't very useful to me unless it can be forged into a spiritual weapon, but I haven't found anyone capable of doing that. I did acquire quite a bit of it and even auctioned some off at the Dynasty's trade guild. If you truly need it, I can part with some. But you can't expect me to just give it to you, right?"
After pausing for a moment, he continued, "Of course, if you only need a little, I can give it to you as a gift."
Jiang Fann wasted no time and immediately brought out the imperial-grade pill furnace he had obtained from the Dan Sect. Upon seeing the furnace, Zhu Rong's eyes lit up.
Though he wasn't an alchemist, he understood the significance of an imperial-grade pill furnace for their community. With Zhu Yan's growing expertise in alchemy, a high-quality furnace could greatly benefit their people.
"An imperial-grade pill furnace! Are you planning to trade this for the immortal gold? Aren't you an alchemist?"
Jiang Fann smiled knowingly, clearly prepared with a response. "Since Brother Zhu Yan likes it, I'm willing to part with it for him. I trust the elder won't let me down."
Zhu Rong gave Jiang Fann a meaningful look. "You've certainly put me in a spot, kid."
Hearing this, Zhu Yan quickly chimed in, "Elder, this furnace is a treasure of the Dan Sect, top-notch quality. Even among similar furnaces, few can match it. Jiang Fann is showing great sincerity by offering it."
Elder Zhu Rong knew how much Zhu Yan wanted the furnace. So, he rummaged through the items piled on the ground and pulled out a Hundred Treasures Bag.
"Alright, alright, consider it a gift for our first meeting. I'll seek out some immortal gold when I need it in the future."
As he spoke, he took out the immortal gold from the Hundred Treasures Bag. Jiang Fann's eyes lit up as he gazed at the massive piece of immortal gold, over six feet in diameter. Even Fang Xiang, who was used to seeing valuable items, was taken aback. He had never seen such a large piece before; a piece the size of a fist was already priceless.
The immortal gold seemed to be ablaze, harmonizing with the surrounding spiritual strength, its aura far stronger than anything seen at the auction, and it was several times larger.
Before Jiang Fann could say a word, Zhu Rong swiftly grabbed the pill furnace, playing with it joyfully. Jiang Fann hesitated, staring at the immortal gold, unsure if he should make a move.
Seeing Jiang Fann's hesitation, Zhu Rong asked, "What's the matter? Not satisfied?"
Jiang Fann looked at him in surprise, "All of this is for me?"
The amount of immortal gold far exceeded Jiang Fann's expectations. He would have been content with a piece the size of the one he saw at the auction.
Zhu Rong replied, "If you don't take it soon, I might change my mind."
Without another word, Jiang Fann quickly stored the piece of immortal gold in the Hundred Treasures Bag, while Fang Xiang was equally thrilled.
"Thank you, Elder. If you ever need anything from me, just let me know."
Jiang Fann was in high spirits, and not just him—the War God Blade and the Universe Furnace were also excited. The allure of the immortal gold was too great, and with such a large piece, there was plenty to go around.
"With your current skills, you can't really help me right now. But in the future, when you've mastered the art of alchemy, you can do me a favor."
Hearing this, Jiang Fann couldn't help but feel a bit curious.
"Master the art of alchemy? Do you need a specific kind of potion?"
"Yes and no. Before reaching the level of an imperial alchemist, you won't have the ability to solve it. I've sought help from a few imperial alchemists, but unfortunately, they couldn't solve it. I can't afford the favors from the Alchemy Guild, and I don't trust them. The other alchemists are like wandering hermits; who knows if they're even around. As for Zhu Yan, he's talented, but who knows how many years it will take for him to solve this."
Hearing Zhu Rong say this, Jiang Fann cautiously asked, "Is it for healing? But your aura is steady, and your physical condition seems fine."
"Who said it's my problem? It's not about me. If you can help me in the future, I promise you won't be disappointed."
Jiang Fann smiled and said, "Master, once I leave here, who knows where I'll end up. But since I'm here now, I do have some insights into healing and such. Maybe I can help right now."
At this, Zhu Yan chimed in, "Master, he's really skilled in alchemy. Don't be fooled by his age; even I can't fully grasp his techniques when he's refining potions. Those so-called genius pharmacists in the Alchemy Guild are no match for Jiang Fann. He might actually be able to help you."
Zhu Rong nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, let me think it over. You've had a long journey to Fire Valley, so take a rest. Zhu Yan, show them to their quarters. I'll arrange a welcome feast, and then I'll make my decision."
"Thank you, Elder. We'll take our leave now," the younger one replied respectfully.
Before leaving, Zhu Yan turned to Zhu Rong and said, "Elder, I can take the pill furnace back with me, right? You won't change your mind?"
Zhu Rong chuckled, "What if I do?"
Without another word, Zhu Yan quickly turned and left.