For a wandering cultivator, obtaining such a complete cultivation technique, one that could be practiced from the stage of Qi Induction all the way to the Golden Core stage, was incredibly rare.
It was fortunate that the rogue cultivator who tried to rob Zhang Yiyi had kept this technique in pristine condition, stored separately in a jade box within his storage pouch.
And now, this technique had landed in Liuzi's hands.
Upon realizing that the technique he had received was no ordinary one, Liuzi was deeply moved. Although he lacked extensive knowledge, he understood that a technique capable of being cultivated from Qi Induction to the Golden Core stage wasn't something that could be easily bought anywhere. At the very least, he had never heard of any shop in Jiagu Guan City selling a technique of this caliber.
Liuzi also knew how crucial a good cultivation technique was to a cultivator, and today, he felt incredibly fortunate to have met Zhang Yiyi.
His eyes reddened slightly, and with a choked voice, Liuzi said, "Sister Han, your immense kindness will forever be etched in my heart. From this day forward, my life belongs to you. If you ever need anything, anytime or anywhere, I will be at your service without hesitation!"
Not everyone in life is lucky enough to meet someone who can change their destiny. Liuzi knew that from now on, his life would be different, and this change was all thanks to the person standing before him.
"Why do you sound like an old man when you talk? It's boring," Zhang Yiyi waved her hand dismissively. "What would I want with your life? Alright, let's leave it at that. But it seems like you've forgotten to give me something, right?"
As she changed the topic, the atmosphere lightened considerably.
Liuzi, no longer feeling emotional, realized that there would be plenty of time in the future to repay her through his actions.
"The map! I almost forgot!" He quickly smacked his forehead, realizing what Zhang Yiyi was referring to.
"Wait here for a moment, Sister, I'll go fetch it for you."
Liuzi dashed off and returned shortly, handing Zhang Yiyi the map he had prepared.
Unlike the ones sold in shops or stalls in the city, this map was far more detailed, meticulously recording the most recent changes in Jiagu Guan City and its surroundings, including information unknown to most people.
This is because Liuzi and his fellow guides had access to more accurate and up-to-date information through their unique channels.
Because of this, Zhang Yiyi had initially requested a specialized map, not the common kind sold on the market. Now, she was quite satisfied with what she received.
Liuzi carefully explained the map to Zhang Yiyi, especially pointing out the more unique areas, worried that she might not understand some of the markings.
His heart was now fully set on repaying her kindness. He wished for more opportunities to serve his benefactor.
Zhang Yiyi appreciated Liuzi's quick-wittedness and discretion. Someone who knew gratitude, even with lesser talents, was far better than those so-called geniuses with hearts of stone.
"Liuzi, I have another task for you."
Zhang Yiyi knew that if she didn't give Liuzi something to occupy himself with, he would likely not be able to rest easy. Fortunately, she needed help gathering information in Jiagu Guan City for her main mission, and Liuzi was the perfect fit.
As expected, when Liuzi heard there was work for him, he was thrilled and listened carefully to Zhang Yiyi's instructions.
Zhang Yiyi didn't go into too much detail. She simply said that someone she knew had gone missing in Jiagu Guan City, and she wanted to see if she could find them while she was here.
She asked Liuzi to secretly gather information on any unusual events, strange occurrences, or abnormal activities within Jiagu Guan City over the past year. She didn't mention any specifics about the missing person and also warned Liuzi to be discreet so as not to draw attention.
Liuzi immediately understood that the person Zhang Yiyi was looking for might not want their identity exposed, either because they were too important or perhaps to prevent interference from hidden enemies, or something even more severe...
In any case, Liuzi wisely refrained from asking any further questions. He would simply carry out Sister Han's orders meticulously, ensuring that he handled everything to her satisfaction.
Zhang Yiyi was quite pleased with Liuzi's sharp instincts and sense of propriety. She handed him thirty spirit stones, to cover the cost of the map and for his efforts in helping her gather information.
The amount was just right for Liuzi—not too much and not too little—since he hadn't yet reached the Qi Induction stage and was still an ordinary person.
"Sister Han, I can't accept these spirit stones!" Liuzi protested, unwilling to take them. "We already agreed, you gave me such an amazing technique, I'll do anything you ask without hesitation!"
"Take them. This isn't a gift; you'll need them to cover expenses while gathering information for me. It's impossible to get information without spending spirit stones," Zhang Yiyi said, pressing the spirit stones into his hand. "I know you want to repay me, but there's no rush. Focus on cultivating and becoming stronger—there will be plenty of chances in the future. These spirit stones are nothing in comparison."
"Alright, I'll listen to you, Sister Han!" Liuzi, understanding her point, accepted the spirit stones without further argument.
"I'll be going out for two or three days, maybe five at most. There's no need for you and your grandmother to crowd into someone else's home; move back here and stay as you were."
Zhang Yiyi genuinely didn't mind. After all, the house had three rooms, and their presence wouldn't bother her.
Having Liuzi close by would also make it easier if she needed him to run errands or deliver messages.
"Thank you, Sister Han. I'll bring my grandmother back shortly."
This time, Liuzi didn't say much. He already owed her such a huge debt of gratitude, insisting on this small matter would have been overly sentimental.
Moreover, since Sister Han had offered for them to live in the same courtyard, it showed that she didn't mind being close to them. This thought filled him with joy.
With the temporary lodging settled and the search underway, Zhang Yiyi spent the next two days wandering around the city, quickly familiarizing herself with the environment.
On the third day, the communication talisman left by Zheng He finally activated.
As per the agreed time, Zhang Yiyi arrived at the city gate, where she spotted Zheng He enthusiastically waving at her.
"Han Lin, over here!"
Zheng He thought to himself that even though it had only been two days, the girl seemed to have become even more beautiful.
Although he had given up the idea of marrying her, beautiful things were always pleasant to look at.
"Brother Zheng, where are your companions? Didn't you say there were others?" Zhang Yiyi looked around but didn't see anyone else.
"There are others, but they've gone ahead. We'll catch up with them on the way and meet them at the destination," Zheng He explained as he led Zhang Yiyi out of the city, lowering his voice. "Something has changed. I'll explain on the way."