“In the path of immortals, connections and one’s background—however bitter it may seem—are also aspects of a cultivator’s abilities and strength.”

Qai arrived at the peak of South mountain.

But when he got near the Contributions Hall, there seemed to be a little commotion going on among outer disciples.

The disciples were actually loud so it was not impossible for Qai to overhear their conversation.

Apparently, in 3 months' time, a new set of rankings among outer disciples will be determined. And in line with sect practice, an ranking competition shall be held.

But this time’s tournament would be special.

The resulting top 3 outer disciples will participate in another competition a year later—but against top disciples from the other sects. Such tournament had been regularly held every ten years and it just so happened that it was that time in the decade.

“I heard only those below 20 years old can participate.”

“You’re wrong there, brother. It's not that they can, but it was mandatory for all level 7 and above in the Qi Condensation stage outer disciples to join as long as you don't exceed 20 years of age.”

“Wow, so I am qualified then.”

“Yeah right. But you can only dream of making it to the top 3. Number 2 outer disciple Bai Chen will surely take the top spot this year. He has already reached the great circle of Qi Condensation stage for quite some time but he has been suppressing his breakthrough for this tournament.”

“That should be the case. Number 1 Lin Feng is already 22 this year so basically he can no longer participate. Besides, I heard that he already acquired Foundation Establishment Pill and is already attempting to make a breakthrough.”

“Well, those two are the only disciples in the great circle of Qi Condensation. So I guess the top 2 and 3 ranks are now free for all to grab.”

“Hah, just you wait in 3 months. I’ll be sure to stun all of you when I sweep my opponents.”

Qai shook his head when he heard how simple-minded the disciples sounded.

But then again he recalled how the inner disciples acted and felt that such an attitude must be normal in this cultivation world.

‘Everything they cared about is strength. Well, I guess I’m not that much different in that regard. But how can cultivators be blinded by their own strength when comparing themselves with another!?’

Unreasonable. Arrogant. Stupid.

Qai no longer bothered to listen more.

If it was mandatory, then there was no way he would not join even if he was not interested in it.

When he stepped his foot inside the Contributions Hall, the sect official was still talking with a group of 3 outer disciples.

Qai’s purpose was to inquire about the procedure for the delivery of regular dues to the sect. So he waited for the group to finish.

However, it was at that moment when someone called him from behind.

“Brother, you must be new here.”

’Who!?’

He turned to face the disciple and saw a bearded late 20’s level 8 Qi Condensation stage male cultivator. He had a bulk body with a broad sword hanging on his back.

Compared to Qai’s scholarly look with a noble atmosphere, the male disciple in front of him appeared to be the one who practiced body refinement.

“Brother, I am indeed someone who came some months ago. And I’m just here to inquire about our regular contributions.”

“Hah, why bother going all the way here just for some trifling matter. Let me tell you about it myself. And don't worry. I, Ji Wuheng, have always been thoughtful of my fellow disciples. I am actually looking for some members to hunt some beast cores. How about you team up with me and tell you about your query along the way. What do you say?”

Qai was momentarily taken aback.

He had been warned many times about some disciples who like to appear kind and generous to new disciples only to secretly rob the latter.

“I would love too but I’m kind of busy at the moment. So I will have to decline your offer.”

“That's too bad, brother. But let me warn you, as an older disciple. Don't just accept invitations. You're kind of new, so a lot of old-timers would try to trick you. Alright, next time you're free, don't hesitate to look for me.”

Qai didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

The very advice of the disciple named Ji Wuheng clearly contradicted what just the disciple just did.

But for some reason, Qai saw some sincerity in Ji Wuheng’s tone and thought that the latter might really be trustworthy.

“Thank you for your tips, brother. I’ll be sure to find you next time.”

Qai cupped his hands in salute then proceeded to the sect official’s counter.

The group’s transaction was not yet over and it appeared to be going nowhere.

The problem was that the 3 disciples’ grain fields was attacked by a level 2 Spirit Beast and wanted to get help from the Contributions Hall since a portion of the supposed harvest would have been delivered in exchange for Contribution Points.

“Unfortunately, that is not this Hall’s problem.”

Apparently, the sect official was advising them to post a mission instead so that they could get the help of an inner disciple.

But unfortunately, the 3 didn't have much savings to put up as a reward—even after combining their wealth.

Qai abruptly extended his Spiritual Sense over the 3 disciples and gauged their cultivation bases.

The strongest one was a female disciple who had level 7 Qi Condensation stage cultivation while the other two—a male and another female Qi Condensation stage disciples—had both level 6 cultivation bases.

Eventually, more and more outer disciples came to hear the commotion. And after learning who were the outer disciples in trouble, they started talking about the latter’s background who all came from the same Mo family.

Apparently, it was a discriminated side branch of some cultivation clan and that was why these outer disciples all worked together in the sect.

In fact, it was already a fortune that 3 in their family were able to enter the sect. But obviously, they had been struggling to survive.

‘If only these disciples had some connection among the inner disciples.’

Qai sighed at how seemingly unjust the cultivation world was.

‘Truly, strength could decide on many things.’

The level 7 Qi Condensation stage female disciple appeared to be in her mid 20’s while the other were about the same age as Qai.

“Scram now the three of you. Can't you see disciples waiting up in line? If I had the way to help you, I would have already done so.”

The 3 disciples went away in dissatisfaction while the other disciples who had seen the show began to mumble with one another.

Qai followed them and completely forgot his original purpose of coming to the Contributions Hall.

He didn't know what entered his thoughts—he just decided to help them.

Few meters outside the Hall, Qai was finally able to catch up with the 3 disciples who were obviously still sulking on what to do with their problem.

The eldest female seemed to be their leader but the others were clearly the ones with more potential.

“Wait!”

The 3 stopped in their footsteps but as they turned, the eldest disciple began to show some hostility.

“What!? Are you here to mock us?”

Qai was surprised.

It seemed that the 3 had been through a lot of disdain.

“No, no. I’m very sorry if I had offended you. My name is Qai. I heard your troubles and I’m here to offer my help.”

“Aunt Shui, let's just go. I'm pretty sure there’s not any good intention with this disciple.”

Qai felt helpless.

Now he realized more how much cultivators don't trust each other even if they already belonged to the same sect. He seriously intended to help—only to be rejected outright.

However, the eldest looked at Qai deeply then sighed.

“Alright, what’s it got to do with you? You don't seem to be strong enough to fight off a Spirit Beast. And even if you do have the ability, I'm pretty sure you heard we have nothing to pay as a reward.”