42 RI
On the second day.
As expected, Wei Yang came to Nan Qiu garden and brought Fang and Bai to tour Shang clan city.
"Our Shang clan city is number one in the southern border in terms of size. Shang clan has operated here for thousands of years, transforming the entire Shang Liang mountain. Here, there are over ten thousand shops, and hundreds of thousands of people."
"Both of you have not eaten yet, I'll bring you to a famous breakfast shop, please follow me."
Fang and Bai followed Wei Yang, along the stone pillar and descended.
After three layers, they came to a shop, called Early Spring.
Thousand layer agate cake, crab roe bun, golden field pancake, snow porridge...
"Shang clan city, from inner to outer, has first, second, third, fourth, fifth and outer city. If they were classified even more clearly, there are many zones as well, food zone, gambling rocks zone, caretaking zone, red-light zone and others." Wei Yang introduced.
...
"This is the culinary zone, with many restaurants mostly owned by Gu Master chefs. The delicacies are endless."
...
"This is the caretaking zone, most Gu Masters have excessive Gu worms, so they place them here for caretaking. The price is determined by situations, but ordinarily, a rank one Gu costs eighty primeval stones a month.
...
"This is the Gu fighting zone, this place is solely for Gu fights, Gu Masters cannot interfere, and can only control their Gu. If you two have appropriate Gu worms, you can give it a try."
...
"This is the red-light zone, having the most number of brothels in the entire Shang clan city. Many Gu Masters come here to relax. You two have come here through the caravan, you must know the immense pressure during the journey. Here you can find women, men, and even Gu Masters. Are the two of you interested?"
...
As Wei Yang brought them around, Bai Ning Bing gained much insight to this world.
Shang clan city is bustling and flourishing, causing many to have lingering memories even after they leave.
A day's time is too short, while Shang clan city is too huge, even if the three used horse carriages to travel, they cannot even cover one percent of the entire city.
On the third day, Wei Yang came over again to attend to Fang and Bai.
"This is the substitute refinement zone. You are both Gu Masters, you naturally understand the difficulties in refining Gu. To us, what we fear most is encountering a strong-willed wild Gu worm during refinement, or a Gu that an expert had left behind. The higher the rank of the Gu, the harder it is to refine. Back in the day, Empress Wu Ji spent eleven years just to refine a rank five dragon strength Gu. Thus, substitute refinement is a necessity, and has always been in the market."
...
"This is the auction zone, every day there will be a small scale auction held here, every two weeks there will be a mid scale auction, and at the end of every month, there will be a large scale auction. Most items that appear on the auction are rare and coveted."
...
"This is the battle zone, with over eighty battle stages. This place is always the most popular! There are single battle stages, for Gu Masters to experiment and practise using their Gu worms. There are dual battle stages for Gu Masters to exchange pointers, and even multi-battle stages, to experience multiple enemies at once."
Just as Wei Yang had said, the battle stages were the most popular place in Shang clan city.
The place was chaotic and noisy, as human traffic stayed high, rank three Gu Masters could be seen everywhere.
"Big brother Wei, why are you here?" From among the crowd, a young man saw Wei Yang and immediately called out, walking briskly towards him.
This man was about twenty seven or eight years old, having a common face but gave off a strong aura.
"Little Xiao, I heard you fought your way into third inner city. Good job!" Wei Yang patted the young man's shoulders, encouraging.
"Yes, I recently advanced to rank three middle stage, and my fighting strength improved as well. Come to think of it, I have to thank you for all your guidance, or I would have never made it this far." The young man earnestly thanked.
"You have good talent lad, you could do it even without me, You are not thirty yet, but you have already reached rank three middle stage, that is much more impressive than me back then, haha." Wei Yang laughed and said.
The young man gave Wei Yang an admiring gaze: "Big brother Wei Yang, how can I compare to you. You were only rank three middle stage back then, and already dominated the third inner city. At twenty five, you got the attention of the lord clan leader and was recruited. Now, you are already a clan elder, just look at Shang clan, how many external clan elders are there in total?"
"As long as you work hard, you can do it too." Wei Yang encouraged the young man.
Soon after, he turned around, and explained to Fang and Bai: "The battle zone is one of the ways Shang clan recruit outside talents. Back then, I fought my way from the fifth inner city's battle zone all the way to third inner city, and stayed on the stage for eighteen consecutive rounds before being recruited by lord clan leader."
Back then, Shang Yan Fei was still not the clan leader.
After becoming his trusted aide, Wei Yang was also successfully promoted to an external clan elder after Shang Yan Fei got into power.
Bai Ning Bing suddenly realized.
No wonder the battle zone was so popular.
Shang clan's enterprise was huge, and they needed manpower in many areas. Just relying on their clansmen would be difficult to handle the entire situation. The many generations of Shang clan young masters would definitely recruit a number of demonic Gu Masters for their own use.
If the young master that supported these demonic Gu Masters became the clan leader, then the demonic Gu Masters under them would likely become an external clan elder, enjoying the treatment of a clan elder.
Gu Master's cultivation required lots of resources. Many demonic Gu Masters did not have a stable source of resources from their clans, and were often poor. Only by relying on a clan could they better survive.
Wei Yang was a successful example.
In Shang clan city's battle zone, there are large numbers of demonic Gu Masters. In order to join the Shang clan, and become part of the righteous path, to become someone like Wei Yang, they had to compete as they fought their way up to the top.
"Battle stage, this place is filled with memories, guests, would you like to have a spar with me?" Wei Yang suddenly suggested.
"Big brother Wei is going on the stage?" Little Xiao suddenly became excited, his eyes gleaming.
Fang Yuan and Bai Ning Bing looked at each other.
"Alright, then let me experience it." Fang Yuan had expected Shang clan to probe into this, thus he went with the flow.
"Big brother Wei, you don't come here often, this place has been remodelled many times, let me lead the way." Little Xiao volunteered.
Wei Yang nodded: "Okay."
Little Xiao asked: "Brother Wei, what field do you want, forest, mountain, wilderness, or desert, lake?"
Wei Yang turned around, asking for Fang and Bai's opinion: "Let our two esteemed guests choose."
Some Gu Masters specialized in mountain battles, some specialized in desert battles, the battle environment was an important element in affecting battle results.
"We can choose different stages here? What fields do you have?" Bai Ning Bing asked curiously.
Little Xiao heard Wei Yang address Fang and Bai as esteemed guests, and did not dare to drag on, quickly explaining to them.
The battle stages in the third inner city had around tens of different environments, almost encompassing all kinds of terrain that one could possible be in.
After hearing so, Bai Ning Bing could not help but have an urge to try: "Then let's choose the flagstone stage."
Flagstone stage, the most common battle stage, without any wind, snow, rain or sand as natural elements.
The specialized black flagstone, covered over a hundred meters of land.
"Quickly look, it seems to be elder Wei Yang."
"It is elder Wei Yang, that's him."
"Although he has B grade aptitude, he was a successful story that left the battle stage, back then, I even competed with him."
...
Wei Yang seemed to be popular as his appearance on the battle stage attracted many people's attention.
But Wei Yang kept a low profile, using his clan elder authority to seal this battle stage, preventing outsiders from watching.
Only Little Xiao was left.
Wei Yang walked to the center of the stage: "According to normal rules, both sides of the competitors have to announce their cultivation, before assessing it fairly. But since we are just having a casual spar, we shall skip that. Please, have the first move."
What he meant was he wanted to challenge both Fang and Bai single handedly.
Little Xiao stood outside the stage, gripping his fist in excitement: "Big brother Wei won as the weaker side back then, using his rank three middle stage cultivation to dominate the stage, and guarding eighteen rounds of battle. Almost every fight was a classic, now that he is rank three peak stage, I have to observe this battle carefully!"
Fang Yuan and Bai Ning Bing gave each other a look, before suddenly attacking, moving towards Wei Yang from the left and right respectively.
"Going for close combat?" Wei Yang stood at the center, not moving as his body glowed in a golden light, forming a battle armor, protecting his entire body.
Pew pew pew
Fang Yuan and Bai Ning Bing activated their spiral bone spear Gu as they charged towards Wei Yang.
Multiple bone spears spun as they penetrated the air, shooting towards Wei Yang.
"What Gu is this?" Wei Yang was confused in his mind, this was the first time he saw the bone spear Gu.
He did not dodge, intending to test out the power of the spiral bone spear Gu, and took three hits.
The light golden armor flickered, but managed to endure the hits.
"This Gu is not bad, having a spiral force and is good at penetrating defenses." Wei Yang did not fluster, utilizing his primeval essence and causing the light armor to regain its toughness.
"My turn!" He lightly shouted, grabbing the air with both hands, as two broadswords of light formed from this air, shining brilliantly.
"It appeared, big brother Wei's broadsword light Gu!" Little Xiao saw this, and spoke out in excitement.
Wei Yang grabbed the two broadswords, sweeping his gaze and choosing to charge at Fang Yuan.
"Broadsword light Gu and sword shadow Gu are known as the strongest attacking Gu among the rank three Gu worms..." Seeing Wei Yang approaching, Fang Yuan's eyes shone with a sharp flash.
Even though the broadsword light Gu was strong, he was not afraid.
Jumping grass.
Two spring-like grass appeared on his feet, as he stepped on the ground and after gathering energy, Fang Yuan's speed increased drastically.
Canopy Gu, flying bone shield.
Fang Yuan's body shone with a white armor, and three white bone shields surrounded his body, circling continuously around his front, left, back and right.
"Good timing." Wei Yang shouted, as he rushed to Fang Yuan, slamming both of his broadswords from above, intending to strike.
Fang Yuan did not dodge or avoid, raising his right fist and smashing right at it.
Wei Yang's eyes shone with surprise, not expecting Fang Yuan to fight so bravely.
Two broadswords of light slammed down, as the white bone shields automatically blocked it.
The broadswords cut the white bone shields into halves, before landing on the white armor of the canopy Gu, giving off a strong white light.
At the same time, Fang Yuan's fist his Wei Yang's stomach.
Although he did not break the light golden armor, the huge force sent Wei Yang flying.
Bai Ning Bing rushed up at the crucial moment, waving her hand as multiple spiral bone spear Gu shot towards Wei Yang.
The attack was ruthless and decisive, with the intention of sending Wei Yang to his grave.
"Ah, danger!" Seeing this, Little Xiao screamed out.
-x-X-x-
Wei Yang was sent flying by Fang Yuan's fist, and before he stabilized himself, spiral bone spears came flying from above.
The spiral bone spears penetrated the air, shooting like lightning with a crisp sound.
At such a distance, Wei Yang could even see the spiral carvings on the bone spear tip.
"These spiral bone spear Gu, although strong and are able to penetrate defenses, are only rank two Gu worms, there is no threat in them." At that instant, Wei Yang's thoughts moved like lightning.
Bai Ning Bing's blue eyes were cold as ice, Wei Yang challenging both of them at the same time triggered the arrogance in her heart.
"Spiral bone spear can only restrict him, I don't have enough Gu, if I want to finish him, i'll need to use my fists and legs!"
She was a genius.
When Fang Yuan sent Wei Yang flying, although it was just one hit, it showed Bai Ning Bing his weakness.
Wei Yang had never received a permanent strength boost from any Gu worms, he only had the strength of a normal human.
This was a major weakness that could be exploited.
Bai Ning Bing took many steps ahead, following after the bone spears and raising her leg to kick harshly.
"Brother Wei..." Little Xiao who was watching the match saw this scene and started to worry.
If Wei Yang's movements were restricted by the bone spears, it would give Bai Ning Bing a chance to strike. At the same time, if Fang Yuan cornered him, Wei Yang would be in a disadvantage!
"Hehehe." At the final moment, Wei Yang laughed. @@novelbin@@
As the spiral bone spear was about to hit him, suddenly, his body shone in a white light, and he turned into a flash and vanished.
"He had this Gu indeed..." Fang Yuan squinted.
"What quick speed!" Bai Ning Bing's pupils shrunk, feeling astonished.
At the next second, the spiral bone spears pierced through the flagstone, stabbing into the ground.
Bai Ning Bing could not stop her momentum, with a 'bang', her leg crushed the flagstone. The spider web-like cracks enveloped the ground.
"Big brother Wei's rainbow light Gu! I thought he might not use it in time, but to think he was waiting for that moment to escape, causing his enemies to hit nothing. Superb, this is a strong blow against the enemy's psychology." Little Xiao could tell the intentions of his actions.
Seeing that they were about to gravely injure their enemy, an escape at the last moment would turn hope into disappointment, anyone would experience this change of emotion.
Rainbow light tore through the air, as the light dispersed, Wei Yang's body appeared again.
In the blink of an eye, he flew over fifty meters, more than half the battle stage, pulling great distance from Fang and Bai.
Seeing such speed, Bai Ning Bing's footsteps came to a halt.
With the rainbow light Gu, Wei Yang could come and go as he pleases, fighting whenever he wants to, at this point, it was impossible for him to lose.
Rainbow light Gu was a rank three Gu, capable of allowing a Gu Master to turn into light and escape, it was the fastest among the rank three movement Gu!
In contrast, Fang Yuan only had the jumping grass, while the other had no movement Gu. With Wei Yang's speed, they had no chance of hitting him.
In terms of movement, the rainbow light Gu gave Wei Yang a huge advantage, once this Gu was used, Fang and Bai could work together but still fall into a passive state.
"Guests, this is the rainbow light Gu, although it is rank three, its speed far surpasses many rank four Gu. The speed is so fast even the Gu Master cannot react in time, that is the first weakness. To use it, one has to use the lightning thoughts Gu or a flash of inspiration Gu, or others. Otherwise, by the time the Gu Master reacts, they would've flown too far and even crashed into a wall."
Wei Yang spoke, admitting the flaws of the rainbow light Gu.
"Its second weakness, is that it expends too much primeval essence. Among rank three Gu, this expenditure is already middle-high tier consumption. There is a third weakness, but I shall not mention it, you can guess for yourselves."
"Is that the fact that you cannot use a strength Gu to raise your physical strength?" Bai Ning Bing immediately answered.
This time, it was Wei Yang's turn to express shock.
He gave a look of amazement: "Miss Bai Yun really has great cognitive abilities, indeed, if a Gu Master uses a Gu worm to alter their body, and increase their strength, it will be difficult to utilize the rainbow light Gu. Their primeval essence expenditure will increase drastically, or worse, the light transformation might fail and the rainbow light Gu would be destroyed."
But to think, after Bai Ning Bing heard his praise, her expression turned cold as her gaze was like ice, staring at Wei Yang with killing intent: "Hey, let me warn you, do not call me Miss!"
"Eh?" Wei Yang's expression froze: What did I say wrong? Is it wrong to use the word 'Miss'? What a strange taboo.
Wei Yang thought in his heart, as he apologised: "I'm sorry for the offense, Lady Bai Yun..."
Veins popped on Bai Ning Bing's forehead, as she gritted her teeth: "Do not use that either!"
"Oh, then... Sir Bai Yun?" Wei Yang observed her expression as he carefully chose his vocabulary.
Bai Ning Bing's face finally returned to normal.
Wei Yang's lips curled into a smile, continuing: "Then two sirs, it is my turn to attack."
"Give me all you've got!" Fang Yuan patted his chest, screaming and scaring Bai Ning Bing who was right beside him.
"Sir Hei Tu is truly brave and admirable, then take my hit." Wei Yang praised, as he spoke, he turned into a white light and crashed towards Fang and Bai.
Facing such speed, Fang and Bai could not even blink before this rainbow went through the gap between them and arrived behind them.
The white light dispersed, and turned back into Wei Yang.
He held two broadswords, and slashed them towards Fang Yuan and Bai Ning Bing respectively.
Before this broadsword hit, Bai Ning Bing felt her skin tighten. She immediately knew that the ice muscles' protection could not endure this blade, and she quickly retreated.
Fang Yuan growled lightly, not dodging but activating the canopy Gu and flying bone shield Gu, sending his fist over.
The light broadsword first split the white bone shield into half.
Wei Yang turned into light and fled again.
Seeing his fist about to land on Wei Yang's chest, Fang Yuan was just an inch away before missing entirely.
The rainbow light flew away, and stopped far away.
The entire exchange of blows was done at lightning speed.
In less than a few seconds, Wei Yang had moved from a side of the battle stage to another, over a hundred meters long.
"Again!" Fang Yuan howled, battle intent burning in his eyes.
Wei Yang turned into light again, appearing before Fang and Bai in an instant.
Bai Ning Bing could not endure it head-on, she could only use the spiral bone spear but Wei Yang's speed was too fast, causing her bone spears to hit air.
Fang Yuan could only endure the hits passively, other than the first time, his fist never hit Wei Yang again.
At once, light flashed across the battle stage continuously, like a bouncing ball trapped in a box. Meanwhile, Fang and Bai could barely take the hits, having completely lost their momentum.
"Is this big brother Wei's true power? Too impressive..." Little Xiao observed the chaotic sight before him.
Wei Yang's speed was terrific, like a specter moving in the shadows.
After a few more minutes, he stopped his movements: "If both guests want to compete in terms of expenditure, and are trying to exploit the weakness of my rainbow light Gu which consumes massive amounts of primeval essence, I am afraid you are going to be disappointed. I have a light source Gu in my hand, it is an assistance type Gu whose only use is to allow a Gu Master's primeval essence expenditure to be halved when using a light type Gu."
"Damn it..." Bai Ning Bing clenched her teeth in anger.
Fang Yuan waved his hand about: "No more, I can't win. Brother Wei, we concede."
Wei Yang laughed heartily, cupping his fists: "It has been an honor."
Little Xiao seeing the battle ended, immediately came over, with excitement still lingering on his face: "Big brother Wei is truly impressive, but both sirs managing to endure so long is equally impressive. You may not know, but brother Wei has superior battle skills even though he is rank three peak stage. He is Lord Shang Yan Fei's third general, called the White Light Swordsman. If it was me, I would not even be able to exchange twenty blows with him."
"A loss is a loss, there is no big deal. Wei Yang, after I get my hands on suitable Gu worms, i will challenge you once again." Bai Ning Bing's expression was icy cold, from young, the arrogant her had never lost so badly, her mood was obviously terrible.
Little Xiao seeing Bai Ning Bing address Wei Yang by his name, showed displeasure on his face.
Fang Yuan stood at the side: "Brother Wei Yang held back already, I can feel it. Heh, after I buy some useful Gu, I will spar with you again. Although I lost this time, I am still indignant! Next time, please use your full strength, do not worry about the consequences."
"Hahaha, brother Hei Tu speaks his mind. It is my fault this time, next time I will definitely use my full ability." Wei Yang patted Fang Yuan's shoulder.
"That's the way. Brother Wei Yang, I accept my loss completely, let me treat you to some wine. Brother Xiao, you can come along too, and tell me about brother Wei's heroic tales. I can only beat him after learning all about him right." Fang Yuan laughed.
Little Xiao felt that this person, although ugly and lacked a ear, was very pleasant to look at.
Compared to that freak "Bai Yun', his temper was way better.
"Alright!" Little Xiao laughed: "Fighting made us closer, I know a restaurant, newly opened, cheap, and also serves good food. We cannot make our guests pay, let me treat tonight, I hope big brother Wei can come too!"
Fang Yuan stared: "How can we do that?"
"Little Xiao is a local, while you two are guests, let him treat." Wei Yang came in to advice.
Fang Yuan thought about it: "Okay, this time you will treat, but let me do it next time! I don't have money with me anyway, after I sell my recipe and get money, I will treat you two to a good meal. To speak the truth, after coming here, I have been shocked by the commodity prices."
His words were a little cheeky, and also admitted that he was poor, causing Wei Yang and Little Xiao to laugh, thinking that Fang Yuan was a clear and upright man.
Only Bai Ning Bing knew Fang Yuan's acting skills, seeing this, she was used to it already.
In the room, the three drank wine and spoke, announcing their names, pulling their relationships closer together.
Only Bai Ning Bing drank water, being alone and enjoying her peace.
Little Xiao was called Xiao Yan, twenty seven years old, specializing in fire type Gu worms. Recently his cultivation rose by a small realm, to rank three middle stage, thus finally breaking through the fourth inner city's battle zone and reaching third inner city.
"Hei Tu Bai Yun are just fake names, my real name is Gu Yue Fang Zheng, she is Bai Ning Bing." Fang Yuan pretended to be drunk and exposed some information.
They had the Bai clan arrest warrant, as long as Shang clan investigated, the matter could not be kept secret. Fang Yuan gave it away on purpose, to give off the impression of having a clear conscience.
Xiao Yan was a little moved.
He and Wei Yang were demonic Gu Masters, Fang Yuan telling them his "real name" , was an act of "true friendship".
"Surname Gu Yue..." Light flashed across Wei Yang's eyes, this was an important information. It seems that the mission given by the clan leader has been successfully completed.
-x-X-x-
"Gu Yue Fang Zheng?" Listening to Wei Yang's report, Shang Yan Fei frowned slightly.
Gu Yue was a distinct surname, Shang Yan Fei searched through his memories and soon found it.
"Gu Yue Clan, one of the three clans of Qing Mao mountain, having hundreds of years of history. Qing Mao mountain..." Shang Yan Fei's gaze brightened as he recalled an intel he got over half a year ago.
Qing Mao mountain was mysteriously attacked and within a night, changed from a green and lively mountain to a deadly domain of ice and snow.
Even till now, the ice and snow on Qing Mao mountain had yet to completely melt. No one knew what happened at Qing Mao mountain, but from all kinds of traces found there, people knew there had been a huge battle between Gu Masters.
Now, Qing Mao mountain's destruction was classified as a mysterious event and was already spread all over the southern border. As to what caused this, opinions differed from people to people.
However, to certain people, the traces left on Qing Mao mountain made it obvious. The secret of the ten extreme physiques was more or less known to the higher ups of the Gu Master world.
The moment he got this intel, Shang Yan Fei had also immediately guessed this was brought upon by one of the ten extreme physiques, Northern Dark Ice Soul Physique.
"If that is the case, Gu Yue Fang Zheng's origins can be explained. The group sent to investigate the incident on Mu Bei mountain also sent a letter saying there was no suspicious point."
Shang Yan Fei drew up an approximate outline of the whole affairs in his mind.
"Now, there is only one doubt remaining. Why did they conceal their identities and hide in the caravan?"
Shang Yan Fei already had many conjectures, but it still needed to be investigated.
"Right, you sparred with them, how were their skills?" Shang Yan Fei asked.
Wei Yang's expression was solemn as he respectfully reported: "Geniuses! Given time, these two will definitely surpass me."
"Oh, you have such a high opinion of them?" Shang Yan Fei was slightly amazed.
We Yang nodded and continued: "They might be concealing their cultivation with some Gu worms, but being able to last so long in battle, they should at least be rank three. Considering their young age, these two should both have A grade aptitude."
Shang Yan Fei smiled: "But Wei Yang, A grade aptitude only represents talent and not everything. You, yourself, are the best proof of this. You have only B grade aptitude but have become one of my external elders. Furthermore, how many A grade talents have died in your hands over these years?"
In ordinary clans, A grade aptitude was an extraordinary matter.
However, to Shang Clan, they were rather common.
One reason was because it was a large clan and there were many clansmen. Another was because they recruited demonic Gu Masters, those demonic Gu Masters who distinguished themselves in battle arena definitely had extraordinary aptitudes. And the third reason was because Shang Clan's riches were as high as a mountain, they had the ability to purchase aptitude changing Gu worms.
"You praise me too much, lord clan leader." Wei Yang modestly said and continued, "I also understand this logic, thus I am even more sure these two are extraordinary."
"They have rich combat talents and have a sort of innate sense towards the battle situation, as if they were born to fight. They also did not have a complete set of Gu worms, but they were able to last for so long just with two to three Gu, it truly was amazing."
"As to their disposition, they were tough and were not discouraged when disadvantaged. When I exerted pressure on them, they were able to make a breakthrough and constantly adjust themselves, they also have tacit and great teamwork. As the battle continued, they were able to hold their ground even more stably, their improvement was extremely clear."
"Individually, the two have some differences. Gu Yue Fang Zheng is straightforward, charging forward with incomparable bravery and has a lofty disposition. As for that Bai Ning Bing, she is quick-witted with a sharp gaze and only moves when she is sure of it, she had been constantly trying to find my weakness during the battle. In particular, Gu Yue Fang Zheng admitted his loss calmly when I said I possessed a light source Gu, he is broad-minded and absolutely has a larger heart than any ordinary man."
"Lord clan leader, these two; one is a young tiger of the lands while the other is a dragon whelp of the seas . One Yang and one Yin, one domineering and another scheming; a perfect combination, the brilliance of twin stars, each enhancing the other's strength. If we can recruit them, it will be a huge asset to Shang Clan!"
Shang Yan Fei was moved.
Before, he did not put Fang and Bai in his eyes, now his interest was greatly aroused as he listened to Wei Yang.
"Wei Yang, you have followed me for many years, I trust in your foresight. But there is no need to undervalue yourself, they might not necessarily be able to top you even after they grow up. You are hindered by lacking aptitude, otherwise with your talent, you would be even more outstanding than now. There is no need to worry, if a reform Gu appear, I will definitely help you get it."
Reform Gu could raise a Gu Master's aptitude; it was extremely rare and expensive.
Wei Yang's eyes turned red with emotions: "I won't forget this kindness for as long as I live!"
"I, Shang Yan Fei, will never treat my loyal followers unfairly. Leave now, continue attending to them for a few days and see what they think about Shang Clan and whether we can recruit them or not."
"Yes, clan leader!"
...
In a blink of an eye, three days passed.
Nan Qiu garden.
In the lounge, Fang Yuan and Shang Ya Zi was sitting opposite each other.
Fang Yuan leisurely tasted the tea while Shang Ya Zi's expression looked rather unsightly.
"These few days, I have been sincerely coming to look for sir, but you have been raising your price again and again. First it was six hundred and fifty thousand, but you have raised it by tens of thousand every day and now sir actually wants eight hundred thousand! Is sir possibly playing with me to pass time?" Shang Ya Zi was feeling stifled and talked with clenched teeth.
If it was before, he would have already burst out in anger and smashed the tea cup on Fang Yuan's face.
But now, he could not do that.
Why?
Because this guy could directly complain to the clan leader!
I still don't know what relation they have with lord father! These days, Wei Yang has been accompanying them around the city. What kind of person was Wei Yang? He is known as the third general and is lord father's trusted aide! His actions don't usually represent himself, but rather lord father's will! But why is lord father giving such deferential treatment to these two guys that appeared out of nowhere?
Shang Ya Zi was bothered and bewildered.
Since that day, he had been crazily investigating the two.
But it was in vain.
He was merely a young master, his authority was limited to Shang clan city. He was far from having the huge capability of Shang Yan Fei.
The investigations bore no fruits, so he was forced to make guesses.
Why is lord father expressing his goodwill? Is it because of the inheritance in their hands? No, an inheritance might interest an ordinary clan, but not ours. Unless it is the inheritance of a rank six Gu Immortal, it would just be icing on the cake.
Or is it because they were talents? No way, there are so many loyal demonic Gu Masters in the battle stage, they would die to join Shang clan, and are extremely skilled in fighting. If father is not interested in those people, why would he want these two?
No matter how he thought about it, Shang Ya Zi could not think of an answer.
When these two guesses were rejected, a thought emerged in Shang Ya Zi's mind.
Are these two father's illegitimate child? Isn't Shang Tuo Hai, the current young clan leader, father's illegitimate child?
Shang Ya Zi pondered it again and felt that it couldn't be. @@novelbin@@
The implication of being father's bloodline is too great; when Shang Tuo Hai was discovered, he was firmly protected and safeguarded, unlike the these two.
Shang Ya Zi kept on agonizing over this but could not make progress.
And it was because of this, he was even more afraid of Fang and Bai. The most terrifying things were often the unknown.
Fang Yuan could tell this young master Shang Ya Zi was becoming more and more restless and impatient over these few days.
This was what he wanted to see.
This was also one of the reasons he was intentionally raising the prices every day.
If he directly raised six hundred and fifty thousand to eight hundred thousand, the negotiations would definitely collapse. But by raising the price by tens of thousands time and again, it would instead wear down Shang Ya Zi's resistance in his firm resolute heart.
The time was ripe.
Fang Yuan placed the teacup down and smiled: "Everything has their worth. This might only be a Gu Master's inheritance to others, but to you, esteemed young master, it is the final hope to protect your young master status."
"As such, the price should be a little higher, and as the evaluation date draws closer, the price for this inheritance will naturally keep on getting higher. Thus, I have been increasing the price every other day, isn't this something natural?"
"Hehe, if the price is lowered, how could it be worthy of your final hope? How could it be worthy of such an important position as Shang Clan's young master? After all, only Shang Clan young masters can compete for young clan leader's position."
Shang Ya Zi's eyes shook with anger.
This was blatant blackmailing, this guy was raising the price as he pleased!
How could he be so shameless?
Shang Ya Zi wished he could chop Fang Yuan into pieces. But he thought of the position of young master and was able to barely restrain himself: "You are really scheming. If I spend eight hundred thousand, it will be a complete loss and will instead lower my evaluation. Those elders in charge of evaluation are not stupid! Thus, I simply can't buy it at this price."
Fang Yuan had already expected this answer; the corner of his lips slightly curled up into a smile: "Therefore, I have a good solution. I will be openly selling it to you in six hundred and fifty thousand, but you will actually be giving me eight hundred thousand. You will maintain your young master's position and I will be getting a reasonable price, it is a complete win-win situation."
Shang Ya Zi's expression immediately changed and stared at Fang Yuan with wide eyes:"You want me to make a false account? This is impossible! If I am found out, no matter when, my young master's status will be revoked and moreover, I will receive a severe punishment."
Fang Yuan gave a frivolous look: "You can't say that. Who said anything about false account? I am only selling the secret recipe to you, and you feeling that I am an upright man, kindly gave me some primeval stones as a gift. There is simply no relation between the two!"
At that instance, Shang Ya Zi could only look at Fang Yuan, stupefied and speechless.
He had previously thought Fang Yuan was shameless, but now saw that he had greatly underestimated this guy's shamelessness!
-x-X-x-
Shang Ya Zi left worriedly.
Before he left, he told Fang Yuan, that this matter was important and he needed more time to consider it.
But, the fact that he was considering it meant that success was near.
Fang Yuan had seen through this person, knowing that the matter is as good as decided. In fact, he could even raise the prices again when the time comes.
Right now, he was hesitant, so Fang Yuan could not use prices to agitate him.
Once he is determined, hehe, then the prices will soar again, that is simply too easy.
Two days later, Shang Ya Zi carried a haggard expression as he visited Fang Yuan again.
"I agree, let's deal according to what you have requested!" He gritted his teeth, after showing a hesitant expression for a long time, he finally relented.
"Trust me, you will definitely remember this decision! Come, drink." Fang Yuan smiled lightly, pouring a glass of wine for Shang Ya Zi.
Shang Ya Zi raised his cup, drinking the wine in one mouthful.
"What sort of shitty wine is this!" After drinking it, he frowned and scolded.
"This is the cheapest rice wine. Lord young master, I have no money to purchase good wine." Fang Yuan laughed lightly.
"You will have it soon enough. Puff ..." Shang Ya Zi breathed out heavily.
He had first thought about it, and as he concentrated on making a decision, it was a painful process. But now that he has decided, he felt relaxed.
"Alright, I have prepared the agreement, take a look." Fang Yuan brought over a proposal.
Shang Ya Zi glanced at it, and stared in anger, his eyes wide with rage as he slammed the table and screamed: "Nine hundred and fifty thousand? You raised the prices again! Last time, you said eight hundred thousand, but it has only been a few days and you raised it by a hundred and fifty thousand?! Do you think I'm made of gold? Scoundrel! You think my primeval stones fall from the sky?!"
Fang Yuan smiled lightly as he said calmly: "It has already been three days, of course the prices increased, you know it yourself."
Shang Ya Zi's forehead was popping with veins, as he jumped from his seat: "Do you think I am easy to bully? I do not have so much money! This tiny little inheritance, you want nine hundred and fifty? You are like a lion opening its huge mouth 1 !"
"Calm down, anger will harm your health, lord young master, this is not a tiny inheritance, it concerns your young master position. Think about it, every year, one young master will be eliminated. How many people are craving for this spot?" Fang Yuan said casually.
Once he heard the young master position, the furious Shang Ya Zi lost his rage.
Fang Yuan looked at his expression, knowing that nine hundred and fifty was over his limit, and relented: "Alright, alright, then how about nine hundred thousand primeval stones. I concede to you."
Shang Ya Zi slowly sat down.
He had only gotten into the young master position for a year, and had to deal with the evaluations, the actual amount of primeval stones he managed to pocket was only around four hundred thousand.
No doubt, after this transaction, his one year of savings will be depleted. The assets that he had managed to save would be gone.
But concerning the young master position, he had to relent.
He was solemn for a moment, before nodding: "Then nine hundred thousand it is, but I do not trust a paper agreement, we need to swear, let's use the poison vow Gu!"
Fang Yuan showed hesitation.
"Why, are you afraid? How would I know if you would not run away if we do not use the poison vow Gu? We have to do this, there is no way I'm giving in on this!" Shang Ya Zi's attitude was firm.
Fang Yuan had expected this to happen anyway.
"In that case, let me do it first." Fang Yuan stretched out his left hand.
Only then did Shang Ya Zi let out a smile, calling out the poison vow Gu.
Poison vow Gu is a purple red worm, only finger size and has a dangerous looking mouth; it was a rank three consumable Gu.
It flew to Fang Yuan's left index finger, and bit on it.
At once, a heart burning pain assaulted Fang Yuan's nerves.
Fang Yuan endured the pain as he started to read the details on the proposal. After he finished, the poison vow Gu nearly doubled in size, as it absorbed Fang Yuan's heart blood.
Soon after, the poison vow Gu flew to Shang Ya Zi's finger and started to suck blood.
Shang Ya Zi gripped the paper, and used a trembling voice to read the details, and the poison vow Gu doubled in size again.
His face turned pale from pain, as he clenched his teeth and drew in a deep breath: "This goddamn agreement, why is it so lengthy! Can't you write less words? Is there anything to add?"
Fang Yuan shook his head.
Shang Ya Zi's lips curled, revealing a smile. But his face was twisted, and his smile was a little hideous.
Bam.
The poison vow Gu stuffed with blood, suddenly exploded.
But no blood splattered but instead turned into numerous red light spots.
The light spots flew towards Fang Yuan and Shang Ya Zi, like rain falling into a pond, and fused into their bodies.
This shows that the poison vow Gu has taken effect.
If both sides read the details and it did not fulfill their true inner intentions, after the poison vow Gu explodes, it would turn into a puddle of stale blood. This situation, means that one side or both had violated the vow, causing it to fail.
Seeing this, Shang Ya Zi's smile became even deeper.
He looked at Fang Yuan: "Hehe, we have vowed already, if you change your mind in the future, or violate the agreement, you will turn into a puddle of blood and die."
Fang Yuan's expression remained the same, only saying: "Where are my primeval stones?"
Shang Ya Zi shrugged: "Don't worry, why would I violate the agreement, here!"
He tossed out a Gu.
This Gu was like a ball, as exquisite as a crystal, half transparent and palm-sized. There was a cloudy figure in the ball, as if it has sealed numerous clouds.
This white cloud figure looked like a hunchback old man carrying a walking stick.
The old man had long white hair, having an immortal feeling as the wrinkles on his face looked extremely realistic, and he was smiling sincerely.
This is the primeval elder Gu.
A Gu specifically used to store primeval stones.
As the saying goes, professionals have their domain of expertise , the primeval elder Gu is only a rank three, but it can seal up to a million primeval stones.
"There is eight hundred and seventy thousand primeval stones here, the remaining thirty thousand, I will pass them to you when I finish gathering them." Shang Ya Zi passed the primeval elder Gu to Fang Yuan with much reluctance.
Inside, six hundred thousand was the trade credit of Shang clan, the remaining two hundred and seventy was Shang Ya Zi's personal savings.
After Fang Yuan received it, he cooperated with Fang Yuan in refining it.
Primeval elder Gu changed owners, and change occurred within the clouds, the old man was originally looking at Shang Ya Zi, but now he started to smile towards Fang Yuan instead.
Fang Yuan moved the primeval elder Gu around, but no matter which direction he moved, the clouds would transform and the old man would smile towards Fang Yuan regardless.
Actually, this Gu is quite interesting.
If the primeval stones inside are little, the old man would frown and show a bitter expression. If the amount was just nice, the old man would be expressionless. And finally, the more the number of primeval stones towards the limit, the more the old man would smile.
Shang Ya Zi saw Fang Yuan manipulate the primeval elder Gu and knew he was clear on how the Gu worked.
He snorted: "This primeval elder Gu is quite valuable, I cannot give it to you for free. I bought this on the auction and it cost me six thousand six hundred primeval stones."
Fang Yuan nodded, rank three Gu were sold by thousands of primeval stones, and the primeval elder Gu was a rare one, it was definitely worth that amount.
He immediately took out primeval stones to give Shang Ya Zi.
Shang Ya Zi used an ordinary storage Gu and kept these primeval stones, feeling horrible on the inside.
These were originally his primeval stones!
"Nevermind, as long as I can keep my young master position, all is possible, i can earn my primeval stones back, and for this guy who extorted me, he will die a horrible death!"
Shang Ya Zi was not a big hearted person, Fang Yuan robbed him of all his fortune, and he even had to borrow around for the final thirty thousand.
White bone recipe was normally six hundred thousand, but Fang Yuan sold it for nine hundred.
Shang Ya Zi rubbed his nose, after suffering such a loss, he felt extreme hatred towards Fang Yuan.
"The final thirty thousand, I will pass it to you in three days. This matter is known by the two of us only, no third party is allowed to know. Not even your companion. Don't think of finding a loophole, it is useless." Shang Ya Zi got up and left, he could no longer stand being there.
Every extra second he looked at Fang Yuan's hideous face, the anger in his heart would accumulate a bit more.
"There are no loopholes in the agreement, you looked through didn't you?" Fang Yuan showed a plain expression.
Shang Ya Zi snorted, he was born of Shang clan, being influenced from young, and also having managed this shop for a year, there were no loopholes that could avoid his notice.
"I bet you wouldn't dare to break the agreement." He laughed in disdain, quickly leaving.
Fang Yuan did not take it to heart, he knew that Shang Ya Zi's current mood was very understandable.
As for the poison vow, he was not going to obey it.
Poison vow Gu's restriction is very strong, otherwise, no Gu Masters would use it.
No way of exposing it to a third party, that is absolute. Any curveballs were risking one's own life.
Like earlier, Fang Yuan passed six thousand six hundred primeval stones to Shang Ya Zi.
This was an extra action; he could have just deducted it from the thirty thousand primeval stones. @@novelbin@@
But no.
In the poison vow, they stated nine hundred thousand, thus Shang Ya Zi had to fork out nine hundred thousand primeval stones to Fang Yuan.
This was the cold hard rules.
Three days later, Shang Ya Zi gathered thirty thousand primeval stones, and handed it to Fang Yuan.
At the same time, Fang Yuan passed the recipe to him, of course, the most valuable bone flesh unity Gu was not sold.
Shang Ya Zi only knew of the bone spear Gu, spiral bone spear Gu etc, after looking at the recipe, he found many other recipes that uses the bone spear Gu as the base, and felt pleased by it, his mood turning better.
Fang Yuan then sold the bone spear Gu, spiral bone spear Gu as well as the bone spike Gu to him.
As with their original agreement, it was forty thousand six hundred and twenty primeval stones.
As a result, after this transaction, Fang Yuan's assets rose to nine hundred thirty four thousand and twenty primeval stones 2 . With his savings, the total is about nine hundred and forty five thousand 3 .
Fang Yuan placed most of his primeval stones into the primeval elder Gu. To prevent accidents, he also placed some on his body, and some into the tusita flower.
"In my previous life at this time, I was still slogging in the caravan, with only fifty to sixty primeval stones on me. But right now I am nearly a millionaire."
Fang Yuan compared this with his memories, and the advantages of his rebirth can be easily seen.
Of course, he took huge risks as well.
The larger the risk, the greater the benefits. There is no free lunch in this world. Effort might not reap reward, but to gain reward, one has to invest first.
In a flash, three days passed.
Shang clan's investigations ended, and Wei Yang brought Shang Yan Fei's invitation over: "Two esteemed guests, my lord clan leader has set up a clan banquet, specifically ordering me to invite both of you over."
"Clan banquet? The moment is finally here." Fang Yuan thought.
-x-X-x-
A roomy courtyard was where Shang Yan Fei set up the clan banquet.
It was an outdoor feast, because within the mountain, there was no need to worry about storm or rain.
The courtyard was neither luxurious nor elegant, it was even rather old.
There were a dozen or so tables arranged in a circle in the courtyard, which was already looking crowded from that.
There were some fruits and snacks arranged on the tables and also labels indicating which seat belonged to who.
Three seats were already occupied.
"Big brother, do you know why lord father called us this time?" Shang Chao Feng asked vaguely while popping a red fruit into his mouth.
The eldest Shang Qiu Niu was sitting upright, his eyes closed as he rested. Hearing the question, he opened his eyes by a sliver and spoke in a deep voice: "Lord father has recently come out of closed cultivation, he is holding this clan banquet because he misses us, what's so strange about it?"
"Big brother might be right, but when has lord father ever held a casual banquet? Look, don't you think there are a few more seats today?" From the side, Shang Pu Lao interjected.
Shang Chao Feng snickered, and Shang Qiu Niu closed his eyes again.
Shang Pu Lao's gaze flickered, he was in charge of the red light zone and managed brothels of all sizes; he would be the fastest person to get any news. In truth, he had already heard some talks, he was just about to continue when suddenly his ears twitched: "Someone has arrived."
All three's gazes turned towards the gate.
Creak, the gate was pushed open and three people walked in.
Wei Yang was at the front followed by Fang and Bai.
Fang and Bai had already been here before; it was that private residence they had been called to before.
"This private residence is the place where lord clan leader, when he was a young master, was suppressed by the alliance of other young masters. Lord clan leader took a step back and abandoned the position of young master of his own accord, becoming an ordinary clansman. During that fallen period, he stayed here. Later when he became the clan leader, he maintained this place as a reminder to himself and later generations. The clan banquets are always held here."
Wei Yang opened the gate and introduced.
Immediately after, he saw the three people in the courtyard: "Oh, three young masters are already here."
Shang Qiu Niu, Shang Chao Feng and Shang Pu Lao stood up one after another and cupped their hands to Wei Yang: "Our greetings, Elder Wei Yang."
Wei Yang was one of the five great generals under Shang Yan Fei and a major figure in Shang clan. Every single young master competing for the position of young clan leader has to go through his evaluation.
"My greetings to all three young masters, these two are esteemed guests invited by lord clan leader." Wei Yang also cupped his hands in greeting, his expression calm. He was an elder, his status was higher than the young master positions and as an important figure in the clan, he would not fawn on these young masters.
"Sirs, please take a seat." Wei Yang led Fang Yuan and Bai Ning Bing to their seats.
The three young masters looked at each other, they could see bewilderment, surprise and curiosity in each other's eyes.
This was a clan banquet, why would any strangers be invited?
Who are these two? Their seats are actually closer to lord father's than ours!
Wei Yang also sat down and continued on with a smile: "Let me make the introductions. This is Shang Qiu Niu, lord clan leader's eldest son, he manages the caretaking zone. This is clan leader's fourth son Shang Chao Feng, he manages all the Gu fighting arenas in the city. This is Shang Pu Lao, he manages all the brothels in red light zone."
Shang Qiu Niu was robust and his voice was deep, one could tell he was a calm person from one look. He was the oldest, already nearing thirty.
Shang Chao Feng had a messy hair and high nose bridge. He was giving off a wild aura.
Shang Pu Lao looked the most delicate; a thin physique, white face, beautiful eyes and a loose bearing showing that he loitered around with women all year round.
"Qiu Niu greets both esteemed guests." Shang Qiu Niu took the lead to cup his hands as a greeting.
Wei Yang didn't introduce Fang and Bai, the three were smart and naturally wouldn't stupidly pursue it.
"The three young masters are too polite. I am Hei Tu and this is my companion Bai Yun." Fang Yuan introduced.
The names were clearly fake.
This made the three young masters more confused about Fang and Bai's origins. They could only laugh and go through the motion.
As the time for evening banquet came closer, more young masters appeared.
Shang Pi Xiu who managed rock gambling dens; Shang Suan Ni who managed restaurants and silk stores; Shang Fu Xi who managed auctions; Shang Bi Xi who managed substitute refinement zone; and Shang Ya Zi who Fang Yuan was already familiar with.
Wei Yang introduced them to Fang and Bai; all these young masters more or less revealed strange looks as they saw Fang and Bai.
They sat down as talks commenced with the increased number of people, the small courtyard gradually became lively.
Just before the banquet started, the gate suddenly opened and a young master hurriedly rushed in.
He was tall and thin, thick eyebrows and fierce gaze; he was young master Shang Bi An who was in charge of Shang clan city's city guards.
The city guards handled all sorts of disputes and contradictions, maintaining the law and order in the city, so it was the busiest.
After greeting Fang and Bai, Shang Bi An was just sitting down, when a blood colored flame flickered on the main seat as Shang Yan Fei appeared.
Shang Yan Fei was wearing a white robe with gold inlaid cuffs. Scarlet hair flew around wildly before resting on his waist; combined with his extremely handsome face, it formed into an aura and charisma that was unique to him.
"Your children greet lord father." The many young masters stood up one after another before half kneeling down on the ground and greeting Shang Yan Fei unitedly.
"Lord clan leader." Wei Yang stood up.
At the same time, Fang and Bai also stood up to greet him.
"Take your seats." Shang Yan Fei laid back against the wide backed chair and casually waved his hand.
Immediately, seven colored beautiful lights sprinkled down like rain.
The beautiful lights landed on the tables and turned into all kinds of fine dishes, their fragrance immediately spreading in the small courtyard.
Fang Yuan instantly recognized the Gu as gourmet food box Gu.
It was a rank five Gu, especially used to store delicacies and maintain their state.
In his previous life, Fang Yuan tried hard to make a living in the caravan, he had no one to rely on after the destruction of Gu Yue clan.
The sudden emergence of an alliance of demonic Gu Masters on Yi Tian mountain overstepped the bottomline of the righteous paths.
All great clans formed an alliance and besieged Yi Tian mountain.
One of the heads of the allied forces, Shang Yan Fei used this gourmet food box Gu to provide for the armies.
With just a wave of his sleeve, tens of thousands of soldiers were provided with gourmet food, becoming an enormous help in raising their morale.
Since then, gourmet food box Gu became a symbol of Shang Yan Fei and was a conversation topic for many people.
At that time, Fang Yuan was able to become a small boss of the lowest level with his advantages as a transmigrator; he joined a sub-branch of a caravan which was in charge of transporting supplies to the righteous path allied forces.
He had personally be able to see the grandeur of Shang Yan Fei using gourmet food box Gu. Dazzling seven colored lights filled the sky and shone down upon the world; it was a magnificent and grand atmosphere.
"Never expected that I would see this gourmet food box Gu years in advance and also become an esteemed guest of Shang clan!" Fang Yuan heaved a sigh inwardly.
There was clear difference between his previous life and this life, this was the enormous advantage of rebirth.
And this advantage was from Spring Autumn Cicada which was the accumulation and accomplishment of his previous life's struggles.
Shang Yan Fei spread the dishes and immediately addressed his sons: "We have two esteemed guests with us today, you all need to toast them. Qiu Niu, you are the eldest, set an example."
With Shang Yan Fei personally telling them, Shang clan young masters did not dare to act slowly even though they were bewildered.
Shang Qiu Niu immediately stood up and raised a wine glass, saying with his deep voice: "Qiu Niu toasts the two esteemed guests."
With that, he swigged down the glass of wine.
Fang Yuan also drank down a glass of wine while Bai Ning Bing still drank water.
Qiu Niu was the oldest among these young masters; he was almost thirty but his appearance looked quite mature as if he was forty.
By contrast, his father Shang Yan Fei looked like he was a youth in his twenties. The contrast between father and son was quite an interesting sight.
"I had a good talk with the two esteemed guests before. Esteemed guests, if you have time later, you could come to my zone to have fun, Gu battles are truly interesting." Shang Chao Feng also stood up.
Fang Yuan's lips curled up into a smile, he knew quite a bit about Shang Chao Feng though this was the first time they met.
This man was very aggressive about winning and was ruthless and cunning. In Fang Yuan's previous life, at one time, he had been the biggest hindrance to Shang Xin Ci's position as Shang clan young master.
"Fourth brother's Gu battles are too bloody, the best is still the delight of beauties singing and dancing for you." Shang Pu Lao retorted Shang Chao Feng before proposing a toast to Fang and Bai, his beautiful eyes flashing with light, "I wish to talk about romance and love with the two esteemed guests."
"If we have time, definitely." Fang Yuan said with a smile and chugged down the wine.
This banquet looked like those for celebrities in his eyes.
Most of these Shang clan young masters would have their own story that would spread throughout the southern border in future.
Shang Yan Fei had many children but these people here were able to distinguish themselves in such an intense competition, clearly showing their abilities that surpassed others. One could call them a giant among men or unpolished jade stones.
Moreover, they each had their own ways and styles of doing things; right now as they converged together in the same place, it was like a pearl shining off with light and darkness.
For the time being, there was not much to say about eldest son Shang Qiu Niu, second son Shang Ya Zi, fourth son Shang Chao Feng and eight son Shang Pu Lao.
Ninth son Shang Suan Ni had a lion-like mouth and broad nose. He seemed to be using some type of Gu, as every time he breathed, light yellow smoke came out from his nose and curled around him.
Tenth son Shang Bi Xi was short and stout, looked honest and did not seem to have anything remarkable about him. But Fang Yuan knew Shang Bi Xi was hiding enormous strength that was higher than his by several times.
Twelfth son Shang Bi An would have a marriage alliance with Tie Clan, and come to become southern border's second divine detective after Tie Xue Leng.
Thirteenth son Shang Fu Xi was very intelligent, his advice when the righteous path allied forces attacked Yi Tian mountain caused huge damage to demonic Gu Masters time and again.
And the twenty-first son Shang Pi Xiu, he was the youngest and was a late bloomer. Many years later, when Shang clan fell into ruins, he threw himself into the demonic path and became a devil whose evil reputation spread far and wide over the southern border.
"Father, I am sorry I am late." As the toasts continued, the courtyard gate was opened and a girl walked in.
She was Shang Chi Wen, sixteenth daughter of Shang Yan Fei and held control over battle arenas. She had a fair face and her two eyes shone with a smart gaze. She was a lively and charming person.
After everyone finished toasting the wine, Shang Yan Fei raised his wine cup and faced Fang and Bai: "Thank you for protecting Xin Ci all the way, that was the only reason I could gain a new daughter."
Once he said so, everyone present was stunned.