65. Fake It Till You Make It
“Don’t toy with me!” Shang Ya Zi hisses as he glares at Lo Jik. They are inside the Shui Courtyard. Meanwhile, Bai Ning Bing is off to purchase other relevant Gu Worms. She intends to use the leeway from Shang Ya Zi’s side. She already bought the Frost Demon and Ice Edge Gu. Back then, Bai Ning Bing self-destructed the Frost Demon Gu against Qing Shu and other Gu Yue Masters. With her Core Gu returned and a close-range attack option secure, she’s busy searching for adequate long-range, healing, and movement Gu.
Selecting a complementary Gu and fitting it into one’s arsenal is complicated. Bai Ning Bing only purchased the Snow Skin Gu and the expendable Rank 2 Gu to remove the Monkey’s Strength from her body.
She had been reckless in using the Monkey Strength Gu. It would prove inadequate and even dangerous for her path. If anything, Bai Ning Bing can find the Rank 4 Arctic Gorilla Strength Gu and use it. It won’t prove conflicting in usage with other Gu. After all, once she used the Frost Demon Gu in the fight against Wei Yang, she noticed a significant increase in Primeval Essence Consumption.
But Arctic Gorilla or Ice Dragon Elephants are mutated beasts catered to Ice Path. Using those Beast Strength Gu Worms won’t put her transformation at odds.
However, nothing suitable reached her eyes these days. It’s been two weeks since their spar with Wei Yang.
When Bai Ning Bing hears Shang Ya Zi’s shout from outside the courtyard, she indifferently turns away, unwilling to see the eyesore.
‘Let’s try my luck at the auction house. I can ignore a Defense Gu since Frost Demon Gu provides adequate protection. My priority is a Healing Gu. And a support Gu like the Ice Source Gu. Although my Primeval Essence regeneration reaches 15% now, why won’t I want to preserve more essence? Wei Yang, I’ll thank you for this tip.’
Bai Ning Bing has always been observant. She instantly soaks in new knowledge. She never knew of the ‘Source’ Gu before entering the Shang Clan. But she intends to buy one even if it means browsing dozens of shops.
Meanwhile, inside the Shui Courtyard.
“Huff… Huff…”
Shang Ya Zi roughly breathes as he glares at the spirited Lo Jik.
“I come to you with sincerity, Lo Jik. I gifted you the Rank 2 consumable Gu Heal Mind Gu when we met initially. You needed a few days to consider but also raised a request to purchase a few materials. I sold you those materials for a 15% discount. That was a week ago! Now, you want me to sell you the rare Rank 4 Seamless Transformation Gu? When are you going to sell me that damn inheritance?”
Shang Ya Zi feels anxious. It’s already the middle of February. Only a little over a month remains before the assessments!
Lo Jik smiles politely and speaks gently.
“Anger is the vice to trade, Brother Ya Zi. Calm yourself. Who doesn’t want to earn resources? The Inheritance is useless in my hands. Is it not wise to trade with you? Your deal is already lucrative. Even negotiating for months could not have allowed me to get a deal of 650000 Stones.”
Lo Jik’s encouraging words don’t affect Shang Ya Zi. He was brilliant, fighting fiercely to enter the Young Master’s position. His cold demeanor displays his harsh upbringing as Shang Ya Zi replies, “Stop it. You may think I’m desperate. But there are 41 Days left. It means there are 41 chances for another Demonic Gu Master to pop up with similar circumstances as yours. You may think it’s rare. But I handled 4 Inheritance myself this year.”
He meets Lo Jik’s gaze.
“Believe me. It’s not that uncommon. Can you bet on peaceful growth should I retain my position? I’m offering you a sincere deal. Take it. As for the Rank 4 Seamless Transformation Gu, forget it. No matter your wealth, you don’t possess relevant Tokens. Money cannot let you buy Shang Clan’s tokens. I won’t help you either unless you sell the Inheritance. Take the next three days to consider my offer.”
Shang Ya Zi immediately leaves as Lo Jik sees him off with his gaze.
‘Sincere?’ He smirks internally. Shang Ya Zi may have calmed down, but he’s one mean son of a bitch that ALWAYS bites the hand feeding him. The more brilliant Shang Ya Zi looks, the more Lo Jik wants to drive him out of his Young Master’s position.
For crying out loud, Lo Jik has such a firm grasp on characters like Ya Zi that he even knows what gift they will give him.
Lo Jik took two more days after the spar to heal. Back then, he hinted Shang Ya Zi to return with a Mind Healing Gu. However, the youth only arrived once he knew Lo Jik healed. Also, he gifted Lo Jik a Rank 2 consumable Gu. Would Lo Jik have any need for it? No!
But Lo Jik predicted this. When he purchased materials to refine the Rank 3 Fight Poison Gu, he also bought several sets of materials. All these sets had that Rank 2 Consumable Gu. But Lo Jik had to use them, or he would have been bedridden.
Lo Jik accepted Shang Ya Zi’s petty intentions and refined the Fight Poison Gu that night!
Then, he used Shang Ya Zi to purchase a few materials for the Yang Rotation Gu. Of course, there were several materials. But Bai Ning Bing knows one or two materials due to the list Lo Jik gave her to search for materials from. This act calmed Bai Ning Bing.
Among these purchases were the refinement materials for the other Rank 3 Gu Lo Jik wants to refine quickly—Hateful Strength Gu. He was lucky and succeeded the second time without any injuries.
This was the initial setup plan. It’s complete! Lo Jik could use the Blue Blood Gu.
However, time is money. And Lo Jik values the former more. Although it will take three months to exhaust Blue Blood refinement, he wanted to try using Shang Ya Zi again. It’s not that Lo Jik doesn’t have the money to buy this Rank 4 consumable Gu. However, it’s blocked by a token.
There are nine Authority Tokens in the Shang Clan. The items locked behind the top four tokens are inaccessible to the general public. Shang Ya Zi could buy it due to his position.
‘Token again.’
He clicks his tongue. All the methods to gain tokens are time-consuming.
‘I can focus on auctions or the gambling stones once the Earth Piercing Eye Gu is refined.’
But look at Bai Ning Bing. Isn’t she doing that? However, her progress is slow.
‘Forget it. I’ll prepare to use the Blue Blood Gu. I must stop eating anything for the next week before using the Gu. Then, I will shift to a porridge diet.’
Before the appointed time of three days, Wei Yang suddenly appears the next day.
“Esteemed Guests,” he smiles. “Clan Leader ordered me to invite you two to a Clan Banquet.”
Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing glance at each other. Will they finally know what’s going on?
Unlike before, Wei Yang properly introduces the Second Inner City to the duo as he leads them inside. They return to the same building where Wei Yang left the duo with ‘fruits.’ He shows them around before opening the entrance to the garden.
“Clan Leader stayed here when the alliance of the Young Masters suppressed him. When Sir accepted the Clan Leader’s position, he maintained this house to remind him of his roots and what it took to reach his goals.”
The trio enters the modest garden that is slightly congested due to several rock tables and benches arranged in a circle. The plaques on the tables reveal everyone’s seating position. There are already three men inside the garden.
This is an open banquet. Since the Second Inner City is inside the Mountain, there is no fear of terrible weather conditions.
Wei Yang looks at them and smiles. “Oh, three Young Masters are already here.” He does not have to curry favors with the Young Masters since it’s his evaluation that they need to rise as Young Clan Leader.
“Our greetings to Elder Wei,” the three men bow.
“Greetings, Young Masters. These are the Esteemed Guests invited by the Clan Leader,” Wei Yang maintains decorum and offers the duo seat peculiarly near Shang Yan Fei’s seat.
The three men gaze at Bai Ning Bing. Her beauty only attracted them momentarily before they glanced at Lo Jik. His seat is next to Wei Yang and one seat away from Shang Yan Fei.
Who are they?
“Let’s make introductions,” Wei Yang offers. “This is Clan Leader’s Eldest Son, Shang Qiu Niu. He manages the Caretaking Zone. This is the Clan Leader’s fourth son, Shang Chao Feng. He leads the Gu Fighting Arenas in the City. This is Shang Pu Lao. He runs all the Brothels of the Red Light Zone.”
Shang Qiu Niu is broad-chested and appears to be near 30. He has a deep voice and an experienced gaze.
Shang Chao Feng has messy red hair and possesses a wild aura.
Shang Pu Lao has the most delicate appearance of three, possessing a thin frame, thick eyelashes, pale skin, and loose bearings.
Qiu Niu takes the lead, cupping his fists. “Greetings, Esteemed Guests.”
Others follow with their greetings.
Lo Jik smiles at them.
“Young Masters are too kind. Greetings to you. I’m Lo Jik.”
He doesn’t introduce Bai Ning Bing. She gives them one look before acting like they are air.
Others might think she has poor social skills or is used to ignoring others due to her beauty. However, she’s indifferent. Lo Jik knows she can be dangerously into something and utterly disinterested in another. For instance, her passion for soup and letting the creamy stock fill her tastebuds with ‘colors.’
After some time, more and more Young Masters arrive.
Shang Pi Xiu is a common-looking man. However, he’s in charge of the Rock Gambling Dens.
Shang Suan Ni is Shang Yan Fei’s ninth son and manages the restaurants and silk stores.
Shang Fu Xi manages the Auction Houses.
The tenth son, Shang Bi Xi, is short and stout. He controls the substitute refinement zone.
The second son, who needs no introduction, is Shang Ya Zi.
Wei Yang introduces others to Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing before Lo Jik introduces himself. Although Shang Ya Zi and Lo Jik have issues, they are smart enough to not speak of it in the banquet. Seeing Bai Ning Bing ignore them and looking utterly bored, the Young Masters started conversing with Lo Jik.
Minutes before the appointed time, a tall and thin Gu Master enters the courtyard. He is Shang Bi An. Bi An is in charge of the City Guards. He is also the busiest of the Young Masters.
Once Shang Bi An sits, a blood-colored flame erupts in the courtyard before revealing a handsome red-haired man. A golden-lined white robe with golden cuffs hugs the charming ‘youth’s’ body as the Rank 5 Aura is sensed by everyone.
“We greet Lord Father!” The young masters stand before kneeling on a knee. Wei Yang also stands and greets the Clan Leader.
Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing are no different. However, they don’t kneel. The Young Masters show respect to their father, and the duo greets a stranger. There’s a traditional difference.
Shang Yan Fei sits on the wide stone chair, waving his hands. “Take your seats.”
Immediately, Rainbow light blooms in the air, turning into a mystical stream dancing around the tables before turning into several dishes. A tantalizing aroma fills the courtyard as Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing blink in amazement.
What Gu is that?
Before they eat, Shang Yan Fei glances at his son and addresses them. “We have Esteemed Guests with us today. You have to toast to them. You are my eldest son, Qiu Niu. Set an example.”
“Qiu Niu toasts the two esteemed guests.”
Lo Jik raises his wine cup while Bai Ning Bing sips spring water.
Other young masters continue to toast as the doors to the courtyard open, revealing a beautiful brown-haired girl.
“I’m sorry I’m late, Father,” she grins wryly before taking her seat. Shang Yan Fei merely nods as Wei Yang makes the introduction. Lo Jik felt Shang Yan Fei’s gaze sharpen as he introduced himself to Shang Chi-Wen, Yan Fei’s 16th daughter.
Once every Young Master toasts their equally puzzled Esteemed Guest, Shang Yan Fei surprises others by raising his cup in Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing’s direction.
“Thank you for protecting Xin Ci all the way. You two are the reasons I could gain a new daughter.”
Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing respectfully raise their cup and glass. Only after sipping it do they register Yan Fei’s words.
Bai Ning Bing: How many kids you must have to forget them.
Lo Jik: Does he have a supermarket for women to impregnate? Where can I find it?
Bai Ning Bing: Wait. Did we save his daughter? When?
Lo Jik: Did this traditional fucboi name Xin Ci? Nah. That can’t be it.
Bai Ning Bing: She was a bastard, wasn’t she?
Lo Jik: Yan Fei looks like the kind to leave a trail of bastards by killing parents or impregnating a few.
Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing’s expression gradually stiffens.
Lo Jik/Bai Ning Bing: Fuck.
Others are just as stunned!
‘Daughter?’ Shang Ya Zi instantly connects the dot before the hatred in his heart seems to want to swallow Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing whole! He didn’t go overboard with them, fearing their mysterious identity. But the fear of the unknown is gone.
However, his need to purchase the inheritance is still present.
Noticing their shock, Yan Fei smilingly nods.
“That’s right. The Zhang Clan’s lady you employed after Fei Hou Mountain is my daughter.”
“Zhang Xin Ci,” Bai Ning Bing mutters the name as Shang Yan Fei chuckles.
“She was a Zhang. Now, she is Shang Xin Ci. You two protected my daughter. More than that,” Shang Yan Fei looks at Lo Jik, nodding appreciatively. “You made an able woman out of my daughter. You are her savior and teacher. Although you two deserve a toast. Gu Yue Lo Jik, you also deserve my gratitude.”
Lo Jik quietly downs another wine cup to soothe his nerves.
It’s true.
No kind act goes unpunished.
As if he cares about Yan Fei’s gratitude. He comes here to sell stuff and grow. But the entire Shang Clan’s stock, Yan Fei, his son, and now his daughter are a pain in his ass!
The courtyard’s door opens as a Gu Master in a servant’s attire falls back, following another peerless beauty. Her jet-black hair cascades to her waist, and those narrow phoenix eyes blink at the people present. There is another young girl beside Xin Ci. Xiao Die stands out slightly due to her short hair.
The trio steps inside as Xin Ci’s gaze instantly lands on Lo Jik. In particular, she cannot help but size up his chest before suddenly gasping, “Brother Monkey?!”
‘Could have taken another second to notice me. Why did we wear masks if Xin Ci can use cup sizes to identify?’ Lo Jik rolls his eyes internally. Xin Ci then looks at Bai Ning Bing, hesitating.
“Sister Monkey?” Bai Ning Bing doesn’t say a word. This is dangerous territory. Since Lo Jik dug them into this trouble, he should get a chance to pull them out.
Xiao Die stares at Bai Ning Bing. The moment their gazes meet, the girl trembles and lowers her head.
‘That IS Sister Monkey!’ Xiao Die’s heart shudders. ‘How can such a beautiful face hide a sadistic heart?’ She quickly looks at her one and only. The girl’s eyes brighten the more she observes Lo Jik.
‘So young.’
Xin Ci and Xiao Die think at once.
“What did I tell you, Ci’er?” Yan Fei laughs. “I told you I prepared a surprise for us.”
‘Should have gift-wrapped us, too,’ Lo Jik scoffs internally.
“Thank you, Father. This is the happiest day of my life since I arrived in Shang Clan.” Xin Ci bows and pays her respect. The kind girls simply could not hold the mask of pettiness and decided to try and get along with Yan Fei as her Mother’s last wish. However, today is the first time she called Yan Fei her father.
A radiant smile full of dotingness appears on Yan Fei’s face. However, Xin Ci quickly looks away from the man before bowing to Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing.
“I apologize, Brother and Sister Monkey. I didn’t intentionally lie to you about my identity. My Mother wanted me to travel to the Shang Clan. Only by arriving at the Clan did I realize her true intentions.”
Lo Jik smiles at Xin Ci. His thoughts calm down. Things are okay. Lo Jik always appreciated Xin Ci’s talent and presence. She’s refreshing in several ways. However, he did not find value in knowing her more than necessary and helped her through as a last act of kindness. The crucial point is Zhang… Shang Xin Ci has value. She’s a Clan Leader’s daughter. But she is also a mortal. So, her value cannot be extracted from his Trait. But his Trait isn’t all that’s to him.
First, let’s step back for some space and a broader perspective.
Lo Jik stands and bows slightly to Xin Ci.
“You have no reason to seek our forgiveness, Lady Shang. I hope you can forgive my rudeness during our journey.”
Xin Ci’s and Xiao Die’s expressions freeze while Wei Yang slightly frowns. But this is all within Shang Yan Fei’s expectations. Lo Jik is blatantly distancing himself from the girls. Most Demonic Gu Masters would seek opportunities. However, Lo Jik displays an understanding reluctance. He is the kind to focus on himself without a care for political matters. Xin Ci represents a pebble that will send ripples in the calm waters of the Shang Clan.
Xin Ci’s lips open to say something before she stops. Her gaze turns sad, and she lowers her head.
Other Young Masters observe things without saying anything. Meanwhile, Yan Fei smiles. “Come. Take your seat, Ci’er.”
As Xin Ci takes her seat, Lo Jik turns and smiles at Xiao Die. “I hope you’re doing well, Xiao Die. I apologize for acting like a man fully grown. But as you can see, I’m barely 20.” His behavior with the servant girl shifts by 180°.
Xiao Die’s mood instantly brightens as she reveals a foolish smirk.
“Lady Shang, I should also reintroduce myself. I adopted the mask of Brother Monkey for several reasons. However, I’m from the eradicated Gu Yue Clan. I’m Lo Jik.”
Bai Ning Bing stares at the girl, nodding slightly.
“Bai Ning Bing.”
Others, including Shang Xin Ci, remember their name.
Shang Ya Zi already knew that.
Shang Yan Fei’s smile broadens. Although Lo Jik stepped back, he didn’t ruthlessly burn the bridges. That’s out of respect for the Shang Clan’s name. But Shanng Yan Fei is wrong. If Lo Jik knows anything about the world, adequate distance only sweetens communication.
Once Lo Jik sits, other Young Masters congratulate Shang Yan Fei.
“So, I have a new sister. No wonder my heart was palpitating earlier,” Shang Pu Lao smiles.
“Congratulations, Lord Father.” Shang Bi Xi keeps it simple.
“Tell Big Brother if you face any issues,” Qiu Niu looks at his new sister.
“Awesome! I have a new sister,” Chi Wen giggles as if she’s the only daughter.
As others speak, Bai Ning Bing picks a piece of bread from her plate and digs in.
“This is a joyful occasion for us all,” Yan Fei looks at Xin Ci affectionately. “Let’s eat.”
Other Young Masters feel strange.
‘I have never seen father being so gentle.’
‘There is another contender for the Young Master’s position.’
‘Shang Tuo Hai is also Father’s bastard. But he never received such treatment.’
‘The Zhang Clan is Wu Clan’s subsidiary and has been an enemy of the Shang Clan for generations. Xin Ci isn’t a threat and has no foundations.’
Xin Ci’s siblings are affectionate on the surface, but they all possess complicated thoughts. Sibling’s love falls compared to the desire for the throne. Shang Clan is one of the overlords of the Southern Border. Shang Yan Fei’s children wish to ascend this throne.
After all, being the Shang Clan’s leader is linked to influencing Southern Border’s decision-making!
But this is also what Yan Fei wants. He wants his children to compete. Love is only virtuous when displayed by the strong. So, Shang Yan Fei can dote on whomever he likes. But his children need to be deserving of anything extra than what he feels is necessary.
As the Clan Leader who practices nepotism, he did not have children with others for Love. He did all of it for power. That’s how he treats his children, too.
But Xin Ci is different. She is a product of love and unresolved regret.
As they start eating, Xin Ci questions, “Brother Monkey, ah, I mean… Brother… Sir. Are you not eating anything?” She glances at Lo Jik. Did she ruin his mood so much he doesn’t want to eat anything?
“You misunderstand, Lady Shang,” Lo Jik smiles. “I’m about to use a Gu with special conditions. I can’t eat anything for 7 days before its use and can only drink fluids.”
“I see,” Xin Ci nods, barely touching her food.
“A Body Refinement Gu?” Shang Bi Xi looks at Lo Jik. The former also follows the Strength Path.
“Indeed, Young Master. It’s the Blue Blood Gu.”
“Wow!” Shang Suan Ni muses. He has a lion-like mouth with a broad nose. Yellow smoke curls out of his nostrils with each breath. He is also using some mysterious Gu. “You can’t eat anything until the refinement is done. But the results are worthwhile. Or so I hear.”
Others begin chatting.
Lo Jik also looks at Shang Xin Ci, smiling, “Are you not going to eat, Lady Shang?”
“Well,” Xin Ci hesitates before eating fruits. She doesn’t touch any meat, still holding the vow of only eating the animals she hunts.
“Here,” Yan Fei materializes another rainbow light. It sweeps the meat from Xin Ci’s table before replacing it with exquisite fruits and juices.
“Thank you, Father.”
If it isn’t her own-tasting medicine. She had once called Yan Fei—Clan Leader. She did that to spite him. However, Lo Jik doing the same to maintain a distance feels worse to Xin Ci.
Meanwhile, Lo Jik’s lips twitch.
‘Bitch. I’m only drinking wine. Did you care to offer me your finest collection?’
Wei Yang also questions several things about Shang Xin Ci’s journey, allowing the Young Masters to assess the situation and discourage them from using underhanded means.
Shang Xin Ci doesn’t stint on praises as she reveals how they survived the clash of two Beast Emperors due to Lo Jik.
This story attracts other Young Masters as they assess Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing.
“To think you witnessed the clash of two Beast Emperors,” Shang Chao Feng sighs. It should have been him.
“My heart shivers in fear at the thought of their might,” Xin Ci places her hand on her chest before looking at Lo Jik. Who smiles back.
“I merely kept my word. I said Lady Shang and Xiao Die are under my protection. I meant it.”
Others blink in amazement. Yan Fei also uses this chance to glance at the duo.
“This brings me to the next topic of the banquet. You two saved my daughter, Gu Yue Lo Jik, Bai Ning Bing. You deserve a reward. I will try to fulfill whatever you wish may have.”
Other Young Masters almost stammer. If anybody can make such a promise, it’s their father. However, it’s the first time they’ve seen him do this!
Lo Jik and Bai Ning Bing glance at each other. The latter’s gaze hisses—deal with it. Bai Ning Bing knows her limits well. And she also understands Lo Jik.
He will fight for benefits. Meanwhile, Bai Ning Bing can screw things up. Conversely, Lo Jik can leave her alone with any enemy and expect her to win since Bai Ning Bing will go all out.
They have different strengths and weaknesses.
‘Anything, eh?’ Lo Jik glances at Shang Ya Zi. Noticing Lo Jik’s gaze, Shang Ya Zi pales. However, Lo Jik can smell an opportunity better than a mere Shang Ya Zi.
“We employed Lady Shang because she was better at business than us. We provided her protection in return. There are no debts owed, Lord Clan Leader. The Shang Clan owes us two nothing.” His soft voice cast turbulent waves in others’ hearts. Others are shocked! However, one Shang Fu Xi, who manages the auction, is the quickest to regain his composure as he praises such an answer. Brilliant!
Such a righteous answer possibly increased the duo’s reward by several folds! After all, it’s not about debt but face. What will others think if Shang Yan Fei doesn’t reward the duo? That helping Shang Yan Fei’s blood is no different than helping mortals? Who will help the Young Masters if they fall into fatal situations?
Yan Fei narrows his eyes. Meanwhile, Shang Xin Ci hurries to speak. She opens her mouth when Lo Jik’s stare lands on her. The sight of Xin Ci going silent at a mere glance doesn’t go unnoticed by Yan Fei as he secretly frowns.
“It’s not a matter of debt. But if we have to become technical, you taught Ci’er how to survive. You taught her the difference between poisonous and edible materials. Teachers deserve a fee. Are you saying your teachings are worth nothing?”
Lo Jik chuckles forthrightly.
“I repaid a debt, Lord Clan Leader. Bai Ning Bing and I learned from Lady Shang, too. We learned how to conduct trade from her.”
“That’s not true, Brother Monkey,” Xin Ci hastily interrupts. “You taught me how to seek opportunities through difference in markets instead of focusing on the final destination.”
Lo Jik frowns, “I also rejected your ideas, Lady Shang.”
“It’s because you had different needs. I owe you my life, Brother Monkey.”
“You owe me nothing.”
“You also healed Xiao Die’s arm!”
“And we didn’t pay her the entire trip,” Lo Jik shrugs.
“Sister Monkey also protected me from that frivolous Young Master of the Jin Clan.”
Shang Yan Fei quietly notes this down.
“It was nothing,” Lo Jik shakes his head. “Gu Masters butt head daily.”
“You overpaid me. How could my services amount to 5 Primeval Stones/Day?”
“Because we decided it.”
The banquet hall descends into a strange silence as Xin Ci tries to owe Lo Jik a debt. Meanwhile, he refutes everything.
“Enough,” Shang Yan Fei waves his hand as the duo’s arguments heat up.
“State your wishes,” He stares at Lo Jik as the latter frowns and lowers his head.
“Father, Brother, and Sister Monkey lost their assets during the Zombie tide in Mu Bei Mountain.”
Yan Fei nods.
“I will gift you a million primeval stones each.”
Other Young Masters almost drool. Although they control different businesses, they are also the Clan’s employee. They cannot open the Clan Treasury and take anything they like.
“I won’t lie, Lord Clan Leader.”
‘He will tell the most ridiculous lie with a straight face,’ Bai Ning Bing sips water.
“Bai Ning Bing and I already sold our loot. We have money. And the goods Lady Zhang mentions are what I extorted from the caravan’s leader. How dare I expect anything from stolen goods?”
“Oh,” Yan Fei glances at Shang Ya Zi. The action turns Shang Ya Zi’s heart cold. The youth twisted several rules to make the duo cough up the inheritance. However, he still isn’t close. This act was Yan Fei’s reminder to Shang Ya Zi to not go overboard.
“Right!” Xin Ci’s eyes brighten. “Brother and Sister Monkey had to hide their identities.”
Wei Yang nods, supplanting. “Brother Lo Jik and Sister Ning Bing are being pursued by the Tie Clan.”
“Oh?” Shang Yan Fei smiles. “I can make that Wanted Poster disappear. I’m a Blood Path Gu Master. Not all of us are heartless monsters. The Tie Clan Leader will be willing to pursue other targets.”
Lo Jik's smiles dampen.
“I remember the day I first met Senior Tie Xue Leng vividly. I… It was a gloomy day, Lord Clan Leader.” Lo Jik suddenly downs a cup of wine before muttering plainly. “I only remember it so clearly due to my wife’s remains in my arms. I can remember the look in Senior Tie Xue Leng’s eyes as much as I can remember the number of wolf’s bite marks on my Yan’er’s face.”
The banquet hall descends into silence.
“Senior Tie Xue Leng offered his condolences. However, in his eyes were the flames of fury I had never seen before. The Divine Investigator investigated and THEN captured. He was Righteous. And our pursuers? They branded us Demonic because we survived. Heh. Were we supposed to roll over and die?”
Lo Jik picks up the wine cup with a dark look, downing it again. “I only fear the fury of a Righteous Man. Bai Ning Bing already slapped the fool. It won’t take me long to strip him naked and send him back in disgrace.” His hollow voice spreads. “My Clan is dead. So is my other half. All that remains is a husk. Since I’m destined to die, it doesn’t matter if it’s from the Tie Clan or a wild animal.”
He looks at the quiet Yan Fei.
“I don’t want the Bounty Posters removed, Lord Clan Leader. This world taught me to fight. So, I shall fight for my innocence.”
‘See? The most bald-faced lie ever.’ Bai Ning Bing resists the urge to roll her eyes. Lo Jik may share affection with Mo Yan. But he did not break after her death. And the fucker killed his Grandfather-in-law, too!
Xin Ci stares at the gloomy Lo Jik dazedly. Others share serious glances, too. They can feel Lo Jik’s determination. It’s not a Demonic Nature but a human one! It resonates with everyone present.
‘Brother Monkey had a wife?’ Xin Ci’s eyes slightly redden. To think he suffered so much.
“If there is something I need, Lord Clan Leader, it’s time. However, time is invaluable. Everyone has limited time. So, Shang Clan cannot fulfill my shameless desires.” Lo Jik concludes.
But who is Shang Yan Fei?
‘Truly eloquent.’ Even if Shang Yan Fei believes Lo Jik, he knows the latter smoothly seduced Bai Lin as the Unchained Vagabond.
“No more talks about debts being repaid. The Shang Clan will pay your gratitude. You can toss your gifts away if you like,” Yan Fei releases his aura as everyone except Xin Ci and Xiao Die pale. The surroundings feel stifling as cold sweat streams down everyone.
The Shang Clan will pay.
And you will accept.
End of story.
The Shang Clan can be overbearing even when gifting to others.
Xin Ci’s heart thumps as Lo Jik glances at her with slight aggravation. It’s the first time she’s seen such an expression on his face, and it looks… cute. Xin Ci has this urge to pat Lo Jik’s head and ruffle his hair, further teasing him as a repayment for the ‘debt’ she owes.
Lo Jik exhales in defeat. He raises a final cup before downing.
“Bai Ning Bing and I came here because we heard how lone forces have hope to develop themselves. However, there are some windows of opportunities closed to us. Lord Clan Leader is wise. I will accept your judgment and a gift that helps us develop faster.”
“Is that your intention, too?” Yan Fei glances at Bai Ning Bing, who replies with a nod.
Shang Yan Fei momentarily closes his eyes before smiling.
“Fine. I will gift you two the Purple Thorn Tokens.”
***
Alternate Title: Bai Ning Bing’s Prowl; Angry Shang Ya Zi; Predicting a Dog That Bites The Hand Feeding It; Developing a Set; Complicated Path; Token?; Seamless Transformation; Ya Zi’s True Nature; The Brilliance Shows; Banquet; Young Masters Assemble; Fucboi VS Fucboi; The Dangerous Xin Ci; Value; Putting Distance; Overworking Brain; Bai Ning Bing is the Whole Mood, Silent and Reaping Rewards; The Shang Clan’s Debt; Only Fearing Righteous Fury; A Sad Tale; Yan Fei is Well Aware of the Fucboi Vagabond; The Stunned Young Masters; Lover’s Quarrel?; Xin Ci: I Owe You My Life! Just Take Everything! Lo Jik: I Dun Wonit. Yuh Mah Queen; Finally Getting to the Point; Gloomy Setting; Cute?; Xin Ci’s Intense Urge To Rub the Head…*Pause*
Join the discord through the link in the synopsis.
Read 60 chapters ahead @ Patron and Subscribe Star (Links in the synopsis.)
Support the Fanfic through comments, likes, reviews and such (if the published site allows it.)