Volume One: Entering the Path Chapter 73: A Detailed Explanation of Spirit Stones

As soon as they heard this, everyone’s nerves, which had just relaxed, tensed again, and they all pricked up their ears. Even though they knew it no longer concerned rewards, they figured that knowing a bit more couldn’t hurt, so they listened patiently to Sun Yu’s measured explanation.

Noticing their attentiveness and thinking there were still matters to attend to, Sun Yu decided it was best to finish his explanation early. He continued, “Spirit stones are produced from certain special spirit stone veins. Each spirit stone holds a set amount of spiritual energy.”

As he spoke, worried that they might still not have a tangible idea of what a spirit stone was, Sun Yu produced a small stone from somewhere. Its surface shimmered with a faint light, and everyone could feel waves of spiritual energy emanating from it. They nodded thoughtfully, surmising this must be the spirit stone their teacher referred to.

Sure enough, Sun Yu held the spirit stone between his fingers, faced the group, and gestured for them to observe. “Pay attention, everyone—this is a spirit stone. They’re quite easy to recognize. Just note the amount of spiritual energy inside; I imagine you’ll have no trouble telling them apart.”

The group studied the stone in his hand for a while, making sure to memorize its appearance, then nodded to show they had taken note.

Seeing this, Sun Yu didn’t immediately put the stone away, but kept it in his hand as he continued, “Since everyone seems to have remembered it, let’s talk about the general uses of spirit stones. Of course, I’m sure you’re also curious about how to obtain them, aren’t you?”

At this, many heads nodded. From Sun Yu’s earlier words, it was clear spirit stones would be important to them, naturally sparking curiosity about how to acquire them.

Seeing their reaction, Sun Yu knew he’d touched on what they cared about. “Alright, let’s take it one step at a time. First, I’ll explain the uses of spirit stones, and then I’ll tell you how you can get them.”

Everyone fixed him with expectant eyes, as if to say, “Teacher, don’t keep us in suspense any longer—we’re all waiting.”

Sun Yu found their expressions amusing and shook his head helplessly. “Spirit stones have many uses. For example, they’re required in constructing certain formations—they form part of the necessary materials. Some special techniques also need spirit stones during cultivation. But today, I want to tell you about their most common uses.”

Originally, the group thought the two uses Sun Yu mentioned were the only ones, so his words left them puzzled and curious.

Without keeping them in suspense, he continued, “Firstly, spirit stones serve as currency in many transactions within the cultivation world. If you need to purchase a magical artifact, you’ll need to pay with spirit stones. It’s fair to say spirit stones are the universal currency among cultivators—that’s one use.

Secondly, during cultivation, you can absorb spiritual energy from spirit stones to accelerate your progress.” He paused, then added, “These two are by far the most widespread uses of spirit stones.”

Everyone nodded in understanding. Sun Yu’s explanation was clear, and their own comprehension was not lacking.

Satisfied that they understood, Sun Yu did not elaborate further.

After a brief pause, he continued, “Now, let’s address what you care about most—how to obtain spirit stones.”

Once again, heads rose eagerly. This was the topic they’d been waiting for, and they listened intently.

Sun Yu, patient as ever, went on, “Currently, you can earn spirit stones by achieving top results in assessments or exams, just as the five students did earlier. You’ll also receive spirit stones as rewards for breakthroughs in your cultivation. In addition, school competitions offer spirit stones as prizes for high placements. The school also issues various tasks—completing them will earn you corresponding spirit stone rewards, but you’ll learn more about this in time. Furthermore, if you acquire valuable artifacts, formations, or cultivation medicines, you can trade them for spirit stones. Our academy’s website—the one you’ve already used, called Yingze—offers a trading function. If needed, you can conduct exchanges there.”

The students took some time to digest this torrent of information; Sun Yu had spoken at length without pause, so they needed a moment to process it all. Fortunately, his words were simple and clear, and with some effort everyone understood.

Sun Yu fell silent for a while, deliberately giving them time to absorb everything.

After a moment, seeing that everyone seemed to have grasped the details, he asked, “So, does everyone remember what I’ve said about spirit stones?”

They nodded in agreement, indicating they’d made note of it all.

Sun Yu then asked, “Does anyone have any other questions?”

They thought for a while, but soon shook their heads, indicating they were satisfied.

Seeing this, Sun Yu concluded, “That’s all regarding spirit stones. You may now return to continue your assessments. I hope you all work hard and finish as soon as possible.”

Those who hadn’t completed their assessments realized the teacher had nothing more for them, so after a quick farewell, they returned to continue their evaluations among the stone tablets.

Once most of those still taking assessments had left, Sun Yu turned to those who had already passed. “Aside from the five students receiving rewards, the rest of you are free to go—you can stay here or leave, as you wish.”

Upon hearing this, those not among the five—including Ye Junze—thanked their teacher and took their leave, exiting the formation and heading out of the classroom.

Once they’d left, only Ye Junze, the other four rewarded students, and Sun Yu remained.

Sun Yu turned to the five and said, “Now, if you’ll follow me, we’ll go and collect your rewards.”

The five nodded in unison. “Yes, sir.”

Sun Yu started ahead, and the others exchanged glances before following.

He led them out of the patterned light formation, and they were greeted by the long-missed sunlight. Judging by the sky, it was still early.

When they reached the classroom, Sun Yu said, “Please wait here for a moment—I’ll fetch the spirit stones.”

Ye Junze replied, “Thank you for your trouble, Teacher.”

The other four echoed, “Thank you for your hard work, Teacher.”

“Thank you, Teacher, sorry to trouble you.”

“No rush—we appreciate it, Teacher.”

“You’ve worked hard, Teacher.”

Sun Yu waved them off, saying, “No need to be so formal. These are rewards you’ve earned.”

With that, he turned and left.

With Sun Yu gone, the spacious classroom was left with just the five of them, and a quiet hush settled in.

One of the students, Lu Renjia, glanced around as if trying to break the silence. After a moment’s thought, he spoke up, “Hello, everyone. I didn’t get a chance to introduce myself earlier. My name is Lu Renjia.”

Hearing this, Ye Junze couldn’t help but smile, still apparently amused by the name. Before he could reply, Yun Tianhan beside him burst out laughing. After a few hearty laughs, he said, “Sorry, I just can’t help myself when I hear your name.”

Lu Renjia waved his hand unconcernedly. “It’s alright, I’m used to it. After all, I’ve been the subject of many jokes because of my name since I was a kid. But a name is just something our parents give us—you get used to it.”

“Well said, a name is just a label—nothing worth making fun of. Nice to meet you, Lu Renjia, I’m Li Ling.” Li Ling took the opportunity to shake hands with him.

“Nice to meet you,” Lu Renjia replied, shaking his hand.

The others then each introduced themselves, and soon enough, they all knew one another.

With someone breaking the ice, the atmosphere relaxed, and conversation flowed more freely. Through their exchanges, they gradually became better acquainted.

After chatting for some time, Sun Yu returned. Seeing the five deep in conversation, he smiled and said, “What are you all discussing so intently? I came back and you didn’t even notice.”

They turned and greeted him politely, “Hello, Teacher.”

“Good, good. I’ve brought your rewards. Here you go.” Sun Yu smiled, taking out a small brocade pouch, plump and full. He handed it to Ye Junze. “Ye Junze, this is your reward. Please keep it safe.”

Ye Junze accepted the pouch respectfully. “Thank you, Teacher.”

“You’re welcome.” Sun Yu then turned to Yun Tianhan, took out another identical pouch, and handed it over. “Yun Tianhan, this is yours.”

“Thank you, Teacher,” Yun Tianhan replied.

In this way, Sun Yu distributed the rewards to each of the five.

“All rewards have been handed out. That’s all for today—you’re dismissed. See you next week.”

The five nodded in response. “Thank you, Teacher. Goodbye.”

With that, they took their leave, one by one, departing the classroom.