Forces without an Earth Fire Chamber can only rely on other methods to perform alchemy and artifact refining.
Take the cultivators of the Zhou Family as an example. When Qi Refinement Realm cultivators of the Zhou Family engage in artifact refining and alchemy, they generally have three methods to obtain fire.
The first method is to burn something called a Sunfire Stone, which resembles the coal of Zhou Chun's previous life, of a brownish-red color. Its ignition point is very high, requiring a spell flame to ignite it, but once lit, it can continuously release a high-temperature flame comparable to that of a spell flame.
The second method involves using a magic artifact that produces fire. As long as mana is steadily infused, this artifact can release high-temperature flames.
The third method is to make use of the Demon Fire from Demon Beasts such as the Redflame Wolf, Flame Pig, and Fire Pheasant.
Out of these three methods, the first and third are most commonly used by the Zhou Family Cultivators.
Choosing these two methods means they can devote themselves entirely to the processes of artifact refining and alchemy without being distracted by having to operate a fire-producing magic artifact.
After reaching the Foundation Establishment Stage, cultivators have an additional option because they can produce Foundation Establishment True Fire with their own mana.
Upon entering the Firecraft Institute, Zhou Chun quickly found the person he was looking for.
By a well, Zhou Xintie, the current Hall Master of the Zhou Family's Hundred Arts Hall, was washing a huge Red-Haired Wild Boar, which happened to be an excellent assistant in his artifact refining, a top-grade first-layer Demon Beast— the Flame Pig.
At that moment, as if sensing something, Zhou Xintie suddenly turned his head and saw Zhou Chun, who was watching him.
"Ah, Clan Leader, what brings you here!"
His face showed surprise, and as he called out, he quickly turned and approached Zhou Chun.
"Have you just finished artifact refining?"
Zhou Chun waved his hand, indicating there was no need for formalities, and casually asked.
Hearing this, Zhou Xintie also took the opportunity to flatteringly respond, "Clan Leader's insight is as sharp as ever, indeed, I have just completed an artifact refining shortly ago."
He then let out an embarrassed laugh and added, "This creature always needs a cool bath after refining to feel comfortable. If not, it won't cooperate fully next time. I have no choice but to indulge it!"
"That shows it's clever. No wonder your artifact refining success rate is far superior to others."
Zhou Chun gave a slight smile and likewise praised his junior.
He then stated his purpose for visiting that day, "Do you still remember what I told you before? Once you complete the artifact refining task I assigned, I would present you with a great gift."
As he spoke, he patted his storage pouch at his waist and handed a jade bottle to Zhou Xintie, "This is my gift to you. Take good care of it!"
Upon seeing this, Zhou Xintie couldn't help but reach out to receive the jade bottle, and after looking at Zhou Chun, who was giving him an encouraging gaze, he removed the stopper.
After only a quick glimpse at the contents inside the jade bottle, Zhou Xintie was completely shocked, staring back at Zhou Chun with eyes filled with excitement and disbelief.
In response to his shock and excitement, Zhou Chun said indifferently, "This Foundation Establishment Pill was acquired by me personally, without using any of the family's wealth or connections. Therefore, it is rightfully under my control."
"Xintie, although your natural talent is average, your gift for artifact refining is outstanding. The Zhou Family needs talents like you now, to help compensate for our weaknesses. That's why I am willing to present this Foundation Establishment Pill to you."
Upon hearing this, Zhou Xintie knew exactly how to respond.
He grasped the jade bottle tightly and nodded vigorously, "Junior understands. I shall not fail the Clan Leader's profound expectations and profound affection!"