Chapter 60

For two long days, the Nie Mansion had been locked down, surrounded by the impenetrable defensive power of the Ten Thousand Beasts Array. No one from the outside had been allowed in, as Nie Li focused on strengthening the barriers and completing the array formation.

The forces of the Dark Guild and other families could prove detrimental to his security, and he needed to ensure that he had full control over his domain.

But today, the situation had changed. The gates of the mansion were finally opened to one person—the Director of the Alchemy Association, Yang Xin. A respected alchemist, and a business partner of Nie Li, she was allowed entry for a scheduled meeting.

Yang Xin had always been a prominent figure, known for her beauty and sharp mind in business. With her long, flowing purple hair and piercing eyes, she entered the mansion alone, her footsteps quiet but confident. As she crossed the threshold, she was greeted by a maid, who bowed respectfully.

"Welcome, Director Yang," the maid said, her voice soft and polite. "The Master of the House is expecting you. Please, follow me."

Yang Xin nodded, her gaze scanning the mansion's impressive interiors. The Nie Mansion was a place of simplicity yet marvelous, with walls adorned in intricate designs and corridors leading to various rooms filled with secrets.

As they walked, the maid led Yang Xin through a series of halls, eventually coming to a small, serene garden. There, Yang Xin noticed a little girl skipping joyfully along the stone path. Her face was bright and innocent, a stark contrast to the weighty tension that had filled the mansion over the last few days.

The little girl smiled up at Yang Xin and giggled. "Hello! You're here to meet my brother, aren't you?"

Yang Xin's smile softened. "Yes, I am. Are you his sister?"

The little girl nodded happily, her ponytail bouncing with each skip. "I'm Nie Yu, his little cousin sister. You can call me Nie Yu! I'm really excited to meet you, big sister. In our house the only ones I can play with is brother and his friends. Two big sister came but left soon i couldn't play with them."

Yang Xin couldn't help but smile at the girl's enthusiasm. Nie Yu's innocence was refreshing, and it was clear that she loved her family deeply.

As they continued walking, Nie Yu skipped ahead, her voice carrying as she called out, "Brother! Brother, a beautiful big sister is here to meet you!" She giggled, the sound echoing through the hall.

Yang Xin's curiosity piqued. So this is Nie Li's cousin, she thought, her eyes watching as the little girl continued her way.

Soon, they arrived at the study room. The maid knocked softly before opening the door. Inside, Nie Li sat cross-legged, his back to the door, facing a large glass window that overlooked the garden. The room was dim, with the only light coming from the soft glow of the garden outside. The wall on the far side had been replaced with this massive glass window, offering a clear view of the peaceful greenery outside.

Yang Xin stepped inside, her steps almost silent. She was struck by the change to the study room—it was more open, more alive, with the natural beauty of the garden now blending seamlessly with the space.

Nie Li, sitting in quiet meditation, did not immediately acknowledge her presence. He was clearly deep in thought, his aura calm but steady.

Yang Xin walked toward him, her presence unannounced, standing near the window to take in the view. She watched the serene garden for a moment, as if absorbing the tranquility of the space. The sun filtered through the leaves, casting soft patterns on the stone floor.

Nie Li slowly turned his head, his voice calm as he spoke. "Director Yang, you've finally arrived."

Yang Xin gave a soft, polite bow. "Thank you for having me, Nie Li. I must admit, I was intrigued by your invitation. This place… now it's even more impressive than before."

Nie Li smiled slightly, his eyes glimmering with quiet confidence. "I believe that beauty should be cultivated, both in nature and in one's work. I wanted to create a space where I could think and work without distraction. The glass wall allows me to take in the world while still being focused on what matters."

Yang Xin nodded, her gaze still fixed on the garden. "It's peaceful here," she said thoughtfully. "But I imagine there are many things on your mind right now. This Array… the city's security, the actions of City Lord mansion. You've been busy."

Nie Li smiled and turned to face the garden again. The gentle hum of the garden's stillness surrounded them. The glass walls of Nie Li's study offered a clear view of the meticulously cared-for landscape. The vibrant flowers, the lush greenery, the winding paths—all seemed to breathe with life. Nie Li stood up quietly, his gaze focused on the garden outside, and spoke softly to Yang Xin.

"This garden," he said, his voice tinged with a bit of gentleness, "is cared for by my family—my father, mother, uncle, and aunt. They've put their hearts and souls into it. Isn't it amazing how a barren piece of land can be transformed into something so beautiful?"

Yang Xin stepped forward, her eyes following the winding pathways, the trees, and flowers that flourished around them. She nodded slowly, taking in the scene with respect. "That's true," she agreed, her voice soft. "Its beauty isn't just in the land or the flowers themselves, but in the hard work and teamwork of your parents. This isn't just a garden—it's a testament to their dedication."

Nie Li smiled, understanding the subtle point she was making, but he said nothing. He simply appreciated the quiet moment, the stillness of the garden, and the calming presence of Yang Xin.

Yang Xin paused, looking out at the garden thoughtfully. "I was surprised, actually, by what happened," she said after a moment, her voice filled with a mix of awe and curiosity. "It was nothing short of mesmerizing, the way the Array took form and slayed that demon, the power it unleashed. It was unlike anything I expected from someone so young to be able to create, I underestimated you."

Nie Li gave a small nod, acknowledging her words. "Thank you," he said quietly, his tone carrying the weight of what had happened and what was still to come.

There was a slight pause before Yang Xin's expression shifted to one of inquiry, her eyes narrowing as she turned to him. "What is this array?"

Nie Li's gaze lingered on the garden outside for a moment longer before he spoke. "You already know, Director Yang," he replied, his voice cool. "As was guessed by the City Lord Mansion, it is the Ten Thousand Beasts Array from the book Lord Ye Xiu gave me."

Yang Xin's eyebrows raised slightly in surprise. "But you said..." She trailed off, remembering her earlier conversation with Ye Xiu.

Nie Li turned his gaze to her, his face serious. "The answer stands before you, Director Yang." He paused, his expression softening a little. "I lied."

Yang Xin blinked, her shock momentarily evident about his abrupt acceptance, before she quickly composed herself. "How did you manage to gather so many beasts?" she asked, her tone more direct now.

Nie Li smirked slightly, not bothering to hide the glint of amusement in his eyes. "Is this an interrogation?" He leaned back slightly, the sharpness in his eyes softening into something almost playful. "But since you must ask... I acquired the beasts from the Ancient Orchid City Ruins."

He saw the look of surprise flash across Yang Xin's face and continued, "I knew some of the students were planning to go there, so I bought a map ahead of time and went out before them. I knew the landscape, and after studying the cities of that era, it was easy to find a way inside. Everything in those ruins is a treasure waiting to be taken. It wasn't difficult to gather the beasts, and you know the rest."

Yang Xin's eyes widened. "But you're just a Bronze Rank. That place is far from safe. It's reckless, dangerous even. How did you survive something like that?" She couldn't help but show her concern not knowing his strength.

Nie Li chuckled, his voice low and confident. "What does that change? Opportunity and danger walk hand in hand along the merciless path of cultivation." His words were calm, but there was an edge of conviction in them. "If we didn't take risks, we wouldn't grow."

Yang Xin gave a deep sigh, her gaze lingering on him. She had known Nie Li as a calm and calculated person, but hearing it from him directly only reinforced the extent of his mysterious personality.

"I should have known," she said softly, her tone thoughtful. "You always play the game on your own terms."

Nie Li smiled, but said nothing more. He gestured for her to follow him into a small adjoining room next to his study.

"Please, sit down," he said, leading her to a simple yet elegant set of chairs. The room was designed for more relaxed conversation, away from the pressure of the study. Nie Li, ever the perfect host, calmly began preparing tea. It was his Spirit Calming Tea, one of the finest products of his alchemical endeavors.

He moved with precision, every motion purposeful as he prepared the delicate brew.

As he poured the tea, Yang Xin couldn't help but remember the deal they had struck. Originally, Nie Li had asked her to become his partner in establishing a new faction, one that would rival the Alchemy Association itself. But after much discussion, Yang Xin had persuaded him to abandon that idea. The hurdles they would face were immense, and frankly, it wasn't needed.

Together, they could slowly devour the Alchemy Association from within.

Instead, she had requested the Spirit Calming Tea formula from Nie Li, a recipe that he had agreed to share. She would create and sell the tea on her own, using it to expand her influence within the Alchemy Association. She had even offered to reduce her share of the profits, giving him more control over their business venture. For her, it was a small price to pay for the chance to work with Nie Li—and it had worked splendidly. She was now one of the most influential figures in the association, and there were whispers that she might even be the next president.

"Here you go," Nie Li said, handing her a cup of the freshly brewed tea. The fragrant steam rose gently from the cup, filling the air with a calming aroma.

Yang Xin took the cup, savoring the scent before taking a sip. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the warmth of the tea spread through her. The taste was more exquisite than the one sold by Alchemy Association, Yang Xin knows that this is the original brew much more potent than the ones they sell.

Nie Li watched her, waiting for her to speak.

Finally, Yang Xin placed the cup down on the table and looked at him, her expression serious once more. "I didn't come here just to talk business, Nie Li," she began. "There are no demands from the City Lord Mansion, only a request."

Nie Li raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A request?"

Yang Xin nodded, her voice steady. "The City Lord Mansion wishes for you to create a shelter for the citizens of Glory City in case of any disaster or attack. They also ask if you could help translate the Ten Thousand Beasts Array book—and if possible, assist them in building it or guide them in its use."

There was a pause, the weight of her words hanging in the air.

Nie Li sat back in his chair, his expression unreadable. The request was understandable—the City Lord Mansion had to prepare for the worst.

Yang Xin, sensing his hesitation, continued, "I know this is asking a lot of you. But you're only one who can do this. The city needs you, Nie Li. And they need your knowledge and your power. This could be the turning point for all of us."

Nie Li took a deep breath, his fingers brushing against the rim of his tea cup. "There will be conditions, terms they must agree to."

Yang Xin nodded, her eyes understanding. "I know."

Nie Li nodded, his voice calm but resolute, "It seems City Lord mansion is advised by level headed peoples. No wonder they are the leaders of Glory City for centuries."

The room fell into an expectant silence as the last of Nie Li words settled into the air between them.

Yang Xin, ever poised, clasped her hands together, her gaze fixed on Nie Li, hoping for a favorable response. "Before we discuss about that, I've taken the liberty of arranging protection for you, Nie Li. Two Black Gold Rank demon spiritualists have already been contracted from our Alchemy association. They will serve as your personal protectors, ensuring your safety while you focus on the tasks ahead. I implore you to accept this arrangement. It would bring peace of mind to the City Lord and stabilize the situation within the city."

Nie Li leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered her request. He had been expecting this kind of offer; after all, protecting such a key figure was not something that could be left to chance, especially with the looming threats.

After a small pause, Nie Li gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. "Very well. I'll accept them. But only under one condition: they will not interfere with my work, nor will they be allowed to overstep their bounds."

Yang Xin's face softened with relief and gratitude, for Nie Li to accept such an arrangements means he is willing to trust them. Even still she remained poised as always. "Thank you, Nie Li. We will be grateful for your decision. We understand that your focus is on your work and cultivation, and we will ensure they adhere to your terms."

Nie Li held up a hand, signaling that he wasn't finished. "But we're not done yet. I have conditions for the City Lord Mansion's request as well." He leaned forward slightly, his gaze sharp, making sure she understood the gravity of what was to come.

Yang Xin nodded, her expression one of careful anticipation.

"First of all," Nie Li began, his voice measured, "the translation of the Ten Thousand Beasts Array book is unnecessary. They don't need it. Without me, they can't create the array. I will create the arrays for them, but I have a few conditions. The construction request from any family that wants to create an array along with their budget must be submitted to me by tomorrow, and all materials must be prepared by them. I can create arrays to defend against Black Gold Rank and Legend Rank, of course more powerful the array more expensive it would be. I would choose myself and decide whoever I want to work with but City Lord Mansion would definitely get an array quota. However, the City Lord Mansion will bear the costs of construction and provide the beasts obviously. I won't provide those. Furthermore, they will compensate me handsomely for my services, as I'm doing this at great personal cost."

Yang Xin's eyes narrowed thoughtfully, but she didn't interrupt. Nie Li's terms were fair; it was clear that he was not going to work for free. His talents had value, and he wasn't afraid to assert his worth.

"The second term," Nie Li continued, his voice steady, "is that I will need the right to connect the array with mine. It's a simple matter, and honestly, I don't need their permission. But I want them to know that if they request the creation of an array, they are accepting my terms, including this one. If needed, I will be able to control the array during an emergency. This is important for Glory City's defense, as connecting all the arrays across the city will increase its defenses exponentially. The city needs this."

Yang Xin's eyes flickered with realization, but she nodded in agreement. Connecting the arrays would increase the city's strength, and having control over them during an emergency was crucial. But that would also mean Nie Li would hold a kind of power over the defensive structures of Glory City, and that wasn't something to be given lightly. However, she could see the practicality in it, especially given the external threats.

Nie Li wasn't finished yet, though. "The third term," he said, "is that I will only work on these arrays for the next three months. After that, I will be unavailable for further projects. My schedule is full. Those who miss out will have to wait. No exceptions."

"Three months?" Yang Xin repeated softly, thinking it over. "It would have to do, I suppose."

Nie Li needs about 3 months to stabilize his soul realm for next breakthrough, till then he would have some free time hence its not a big deal to create some array, especially since he has mastered it already and all the new array would be inferior to his own.

Afterwards though he can't afford to be distracted for too long. Breaking through to Black Gold Rank and beyond requires all of the attention.

A small silence passed between them, the weight of what had just been discussed hanging heavily in the air. But Yang Xin knew this was not the only matter at hand. Nie Li wasn't simply concerned about the city or the arrays—he had personal ambitions, and she knew that those ambitions extended beyond the immediate future.

There was another matter that needed addressing.

"One final condition," Nie Li continued, his tone now more deliberate. "The City Lord Mansion and everyone whose array is created must agree to help me in establishing my own faction. I will need their support to build a foundation for my future endeavors. If I'm to work on their behalf, they must also help me grow my influence and build my own forces." He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in. "I cannot do everything alone, and it's time to make sure that I have the proper foundation."

Yang Xin regarded him thoughtfully. His ambition was clear—he wasn't just looking to assist Glory City. He wanted to reshape it, carve his own path, and with the power of the Ten Thousand Beasts Array, he was in a position to do just that.

She understood the risks, but she also saw the potential. Nie Li was not just a powerful ally—he was a future leader, and supporting him would be to support the future of Glory City.

"I understand," she said slowly, her voice steady. "The City Lord Mansion will provide the necessary support for your faction, on the condition that it benefits the greater good of Glory City. We can work out the specifics, but we will help you build your foundation."

Nie Li smiled, a small, knowing smile that showed his satisfaction with the agreement. "Thank you, Director Yang. I knew you would understand."

There was a moment of silence, both of them absorbing the significance of the terms and what they had just agreed to. The City Lord Mansion, Yang Xin, and Nie Li—they had all found common ground in the midst of uncertainty.

Nie Li had agreed to the City Lord Mansion's request, but he had also set his own terms in stone. The next few months would shape not only the future of Glory City, but also the future of Nie Li himself. With the Ten Thousand Beasts Array in play and the support of the City Lord Mansion, there was little doubt that his path forward would be a path of power, and one he would walk with uncompromising resolve.

Yang Xin looked at him, a quiet respect in her eyes. She knew the stakes, and she was ready to stand by him as the world around them began to change.

"Now that your job as a City Lord mediator is over, lets talk about the future of my faction. After all you would be one of the elders in my faction."

"Eh?"