Over the past 12 years, Jasmine had weathered numerous trials and tribulations.
From the unrest in the two counties to the conflicts among the Foundation Building Clans, the Purple River Sect’s interference, and finally, the cold war-like conditions in the Dadangar Archipelago, she had witnessed it all since leaving her old home in the Lakir estate behind.
These events undeniably impacted Jasmine’s growth as a Spirit cultivator.
Despite dedicating herself wholeheartedly to advancing in her cultivation journey over the past 12 years, she remained at the 6th stage of Spirit Refinement.
The innate talent she possessed in her youth no longer sufficed to compensate for her setbacks, and she had lost hope of establishing a solid foundation.
In contrast, Aksai had undergone a profound transformation. Despite experiencing a recent “setback” in his cultivation base (which was nothing but rumors to begin with), he had reached the late stage of Spirit cultivation. Moreover, he had ascended to the position of one of the owners of Emerald Cove.
In just 12 years, through his unwavering diligence, Aksai had risen to prominence within his domain. He was no longer the same young man whom Jasmine had denied over Kaamen.
‘No. I can’t allow myself to drown in self-pity and regret. Even though I’ve lost hope of establishing a foundation, my child shouldn’t suffer because of it.’
Jasmine resolved within herself, clenching her fists tightly in determination. She swiftly pushed aside her regrets and chose to confront reality.
“I… I overstepped my bounds by speaking to you so informally, Island Owner Aksai. Please forgive my impertinence,” Jasmine said, bowing once more before Aksai.
“You do not need to apologize for reacting naturally,” Aksai responded, smiling at Jasmine.
“I would have been just as surprised in your position. After all, how could a mere rental Spirit farmer, without any notable background, become one of the owners of Emerald Cove, right?” he remarked, accurately gauging Jasmine’s thoughts. “Please, rise. You are safe here,” he reassured her.
Jasmine stood up upon Aksai’s words. She hesitated for a moment, acknowledging Aksai’s astute observation. Before she could confirm his speculation, Aksai redirected the conversation.
“Oh yes! How is Uncle Reman? And your husband, Kaamen? Are they also on the island?” he inquired, glancing at the other Spirit cultivators who had come to join his ranks as rental Spirit farmers as if trying to look for familiar faces.
A bitter smile crossed Jasmine’s lips as she responded to Aksai.
“Reporting to the island owner. My father passed away a few years ago during a conflict involving the previous island owner, Kaelen’s crew, and some rogue cultivators in the seas. As for my husband, he’s injured and currently recuperating,” she replied honestly.
“I see,” Aksai nodded, choosing not to delve further into Jasmine’s circumstances.
As far as he was concerned, Jasmine’s chapter had closed in his book. This encounter with her was merely a brief chapter summary, a coincidence of circumstance. Whatever fate befell her husband held no relevance to him, and even Reman’s passing meant little. His questions had been a courtesy to reassure Jasmine of his recognition.
While Aksai was prepared to extend aid to Jasmine and her family by offering them a place to reside and work on Shamrock Peak, he wasn’t inclined to go out of his way to improve their lives. That, he believed, was something they would need to accomplish through their own efforts.
Jasmine, too, could discern Aksai’s demeanor. With a resigned sigh, she said humbly.
“Island Owner Aksai, thank you… Thank you for acknowledging me and offering assistance just now. And thank you for your actions twelve years ago as well. Please allow me to become a rental Spirit farmer on Shamrock Peak. I promise—”
“You needn’t make any promises,” Aksai interjected, cutting off Jasmine.
“As long as you are willing to work diligently, there will be employment and shelter for you on Shamrock Peak.”
He then turned his attention to the Spirit cultivators standing behind Jasmine.
“The same offer extends to all of you. If you fulfill your duties faithfully, you will have a place to reside and cultivate on Shamrock Peak,” he declared, meeting the expectant gazes of the Spirit cultivators.
What did these Spirit cultivators desire?
Most had come seeking one thing: permanent residency on Shamrock Peak or elsewhere in Zenith Ridge, where they could work and cultivate in peace.
Permanent residency allowed them to remain on the island indefinitely, free from hefty taxes and stringent restrictions. Who wouldn’t covet such a life on a Spirit Vein island, both for themselves and their descendants?
Even if most of these Spirit cultivators had forsaken the pursuit of establishing their foundation, they remained steadfast in their determination to pave the way for future generations. They were willing to toil tirelessly to realize this dream for themselves and their progeny.
Thus, when Aksai extended his generous offer, the Spirit cultivators accepted without hesitation, expressing their gratitude to Aksai.
Aksai then instructed some of the laborers currently working on his farmland to construct simple dwellings at the mountain’s base for the newcomers. His vision was to transform the modest village at the foot of Shamrock Mountain into a bustling city capable of accommodating the influx of workers he was about to welcome to his farm.
With the discovery of Spirit veins on multiple islands, no island within the Dadangar Archipelago remained truly safe for mortals and low-stage Spirit cultivators.
Even Jasmine had relocated here from another island within the archipelago due to the unrest brewing there. Like her, many had heard of the change in ownership on Emerald Cove and the new owners’ favorable disposition toward Spirit cultivators. Consequently, numerous Spirit cultivators flocked to Emerald Cove in search of permanent refuge.
Thus, when Aksai assured them of both housing and employment, the Spirit cultivators departed with radiant smiles adorning their faces.
Jasmine also wanted to ask something more from Aksai. However, she hesitated. She then decided to find the right time before taking her leave.
After attending to various matters, Aksai and Nuya found themselves alone once more.
As evening descended, Nuya was invited to tour Aksai’s new palace up close. Together, they explored its interiors before venturing to the Spirit Garden at the rear of the palace.
“Fellow cultivator Aksai, I’ve discovered a method to enhance your barrier-bypass talismans,” Nuya announced, producing a token from her storage ring.
Crafted from wood-like material, the token bore intricate runic patterns over its purple surface, resembling the image of the Purple River.
“A token from the Purple River Sect,” Aksai murmured to himself in amazement as he beheld the emblem on the token.
‘Finally! It seems I can return to the Martial World Sharang soon with the right tools in my hands.’
Aksai felt reassured that he had sought assistance from the right source for his requirements concerning Martial World Sharang.