Chapter 43: Rising Against the Tide *

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting the sky in hues of amber and crimson as the group prepared for the evening. Lin Rou stood on the edge of the balcony, his sharp features softened by the warm glow of twilight. His mind churned with thoughts, each one weighed down by the looming responsibility of ensuring their survival in this unfamiliar city.

The burden of securing enough spirit stones pressed heavily on him, but his resolve was unshaken. "Three hundred thousand," he muttered to himself, his hand gripping the railing tightly. "A steep price, but we'll find a way. We have to."

Inside, Jiang Feng and Lin Moyi were setting out a modest dinner. The room was filled with the comforting aroma of steamed buns and herbal broth, a humble reminder of simpler times. Lin Moyi, ever the pragmatic elder, broke the silence as he adjusted the table settings. "Tomorrow, we'll need to scout the markets. Trade opportunities are everywhere in a city like this. With the right goods, we can secure a steady income.

The young and able must work, just as others do in this city. Feng, you might consider blacksmithing again—it's a skill not many can rival." His voice was a mix of optimism and caution as he glanced toward Jiang Feng. "You're resourceful. Keep your ears open for anything unusual. Opportunity often hides where it's least expected."

Jiang Feng nodded, his brow furrowing in thought. "Understood, Elder Lin. I'll see what I can find." Though younger than both Lin Rou and Lin Moyi, Jiang Feng had proven himself to be capable and quick-witted in difficult situations. His gaze shifted toward the balcony, where Lin Rou stood, his silhouette outlined by the fading light. "What about Lin Rou?" Jiang Feng asked hesitantly. "He seems... preoccupied."

Lin Moyi let out a low chuckle, the sound warm and reassuring. "Let him brood for a bit. That man carries the weight of ten men on his shoulders, but he always finds a solution. It's his way." Just then, Lin Rou stepped inside, his expression as firm as usual but calm with some added resolve. "Father, there's no need to worry. We'll manage this together," he said, his voice steady and confident. "Tomorrow, we start making moves. If we're going to build something lasting here, we can't waste time." His tone left no room for doubt.

Lin Moyi chuckled again, this time louder. "Haha! All fired up as usual. That's the spirit!"

The following morning, Lin Moyi gathered the household to relay the news of their situation. He spoke calmly, deliberately omitting the exact tax amount that would be due at the year's end. Instead, he outlined a plan for everyone to secure jobs in the city. Each would contribute to the Lin Courtyard's upkeep and pool their earnings to help cover the taxes and maintain their modest home.

Jiang Feng stood beside Lin Moyi and Lin Rou, watching the members of their group disperse into the bustling city. Northern Moon was vast, with labyrinthine streets and towering buildings that dwarfed even the most seasoned traveler. Lin Rou had anticipated this and procured dozens of detailed maps from the Zhen Clan, which were distributed among their people that morning.

"Feng, listen closely," Lin Moyi said, his voice lowering to a serious tone. "Northern Moon is governed by the Northern Moon Council, which consists of members from the Zhen, Ji, and Lei Clans. Additionally, the Crimson Sky Pavilion, Azure Spirit Hall, and the Ironwood Sect hold significant influence and are represented on the council board. These six powers are the backbone of this city. Their members and disciples are exceptionally strong, so you must tread carefully around them."

Handing Jiang Feng a small, leather-bound book, Lin Moyi added, "This contains essential details about the city's structure and its key figures. Study it well before you go out. Knowledge is your best defense here."

Jiang Feng flipped through the pages, absorbing the descriptions quickly. The first section detailed the Zhen Clan, masters of defensive formations and talismans. "They're the backbone of the city's defenses," he read aloud. "Their arrays protect the city walls, fortifications, and even cultivation chambers. Their expertise makes them highly sought after." It was clear why the Zhen Clan held such a prominent position; their work was invaluable to the city's survival.

The Ji Clan dominated the next entry, described as shrewd traders and auction masters. "They excel at procuring and selling rare artifacts, high-grade spirit stones, and unique cultivation resources. Their auctions are a gathering point for the wealthiest cultivators in the region," Jiang Feng noted. Their influence stemmed from their unparalleled ability to connect supply and demand, making them indispensable in Northern Moon's economy.

Turning the page, he came to the Lei Clan, renowned for their mastery of lightning techniques and combat prowess. "With unmatched speed and destructive power, their warriors are disciplined and precise. They even trained the Situ Army," Jiang Feng murmured, feeling the weight of their reputation. "They embody the might of the storm itself."

Jiang Feng paused, the enormity of these clans' influence settling over him. "No wonder they're so powerful. They're the lifeblood of this city," he thought, flipping to the next entry.

The Crimson Sky Pavilion was described as a disciplined mercenary guild. Unlike the chaotic mix of Poor Man's Corner, the pavilion's warriors were elite and well-trained. "They handle security, high-stakes missions, and military support. They're reliable and ruthless when needed, earning their reputation through professionalism and strength."

Jiang Feng shivered slightly. "A dangerous but lucrative field," he muttered. "I wonder what happens if one of their warriors falls. Does the family get compensated?"

Next came the Azure Spirit Hall, an institution renowned for spiritual studies and alchemy. "They produce the finest medicinal pills," he read. "Their botanists and alchemists supply the cultivation world with remedies that enhance cultivation, heal injuries, and strengthen vitality. Their libraries and labs are treasures in their own right." Even in a city filled with similar trades, the Azure Spirit Hall's foundation remained unmatched.

Finally, the Ironwood Sect. Jiang Feng's eyes lingered on the entry. "Known for their craftsmanship," he read. "They forged the Silver Moon armor worn by the Situ Army. Their members combine practical skills with unyielding inner strength, creating weapons and artifacts that endure the test of time. Their reputation for quality and integrity is unparalleled."

Closing the book, Jiang Feng exhaled deeply. The city wasn't just a place, it was a crucible of power, influence, and opportunity. And he, like the others, would need to carve his path carefully among these titans.

As Jiang Feng closed the book, his mind raced with thoughts of the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. He couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The sheer scale of Northern Moon's power structure was intimidating, but it also presented him with a chance to grow. "If I can find my place here, maybe I can truly make something of myself," he thought, his grip tightening on the book. The knowledge it contained was his first weapon in this new battleground.

He turned to Lin Rou, who stood nearby with a contemplative look. "Lin Rou," Jiang Feng said hesitantly, "do you think we can really make it here? Against powers like these?"

Lin Rou's gaze shifted to Jiang Feng, his sharp features softening just slightly. "Feng, strength isn't just about power or influence. It's about resilience, resourcefulness, and knowing when to strike. We may be small now, but every great tree starts as a sapling. We've survived worse, and we'll survive this. Just keep your focus and take things one step at a time."

Jiang Feng nodded, reassured by Lin Rou's words. The morning sunlight streamed through the courtyard, casting long shadows as the city began to stir to life. Determined to take his first steps, he tucked the book into his bag and prepared to set out. Today, the Lin Courtyard would begin its journey of carving out a place in Northern Moon. Whether through skill, wit, or sheer determination, they would prove that even the smallest flame could hold its own against the vast sky.

*****

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