As the most powerful family in Tianxuan City, the Mu family is much more than it appears. While Wei Mengrou and Ren Lao manage the family's affairs on the surface, Mu Zhian's parents also hold significant power in the Core Formation Realm. They had left Tianxuan City some time ago for personal matters, leaving Mr. Ren in charge of the family. However, Mu Zhian has been handling most of the family's affairs lately, primarily because the elder wants to temper him. Although Mu Zhian's past performance was lackluster, he has shown considerable growth recently. Even if he falters, he possesses other means to rectify any situation. One of the Mu family's true assets lies in the elders who practice in seclusion; even Mu Zhian's parents defer to them.
Guided by a spy, Mu Zhian traversed a winding path and arrived at a secret room, unaware that the spy had quietly slipped away.
A crucial rule for spies is to "know as few secrets as possible" to ensure their survival. As Mu Zhian entered the eerie space, he respectfully addressed the Great Elder,
"What brings you to see me so late?" He had never encountered this elder before; rumors suggested that due to his advanced age, he had spent most of his time sleeping and had not interfered in the clan's affairs for years. Many believed he had already passed away, so Mu Zhian was curious about what could have prompted such an important figure to summon him.
A voice emerged from the shadows of the secret room, "Your foundation is solid, but your energy is weak. I hear you frequent the Jiaofang Department." Surprised that the Great Elder was aware of his activities, Mu Zhian clasped his fists and replied respectfully, "I have met the Great Elder." The elder continued, "I've heard from spies about the recent events in Tianxuan City. Your actions to eliminate threats show good character, but be cautious in your competition with Ye Yu. His rapid promotion to the peak of refining in just a few months suggests he has a promising future."
"Peak of refining?" Mu Zhian was taken aback. He recalled that Wei Mengrou had mentioned Ye Yu was only a seventh-level refiner a few days ago. "With that thing in his possession, reaching the peak in a few days is feasible," the elder sighed. Mu Zhian's curiosity piqued, "Is there something in Ye Yu's body that accelerates his cultivation?" The elder responded, "I can't confirm what the Ye family boy possesses, but I know what the man in the black robe, who infiltrated the Mu family recently, seeks: the energy of heaven."
Mu Zhian's eyes widened. It made sense why Ye Yu's cultivation speed was so impressive. He had read about the Qi of Heaven in ancient texts and understood its significance. However, he remained puzzled. "Great Elder, if that's the case, why didn't the black-robed man directly take the heavenly energy from Ye Yu? Is he afraid of the masters in Tianxuan City or bound by some oath?"
"You grasp the situation well," the elder replied, a hint of appreciation in his tone. In the world of cultivation, monks cannot make vows lightly; breaking them could invoke a thunder disaster. However, if someone else is entrusted with the task, the consequences do not apply. The black-robed man likely refrained from harming Ye Yu due to such an oath.
"Does the Great Elder want me to stop the black-robed man from taking the energy of heaven, or should I replace him?" Mu Zhian inquired. "I'm only offering you a reminder. The decision is yours," the elder replied. "However, Ye Yu is destined for greatness. If possible, try not to make an enemy of him." The Qi of Heaven is a rare treasure that only chooses the "Chosen One" as its host, a person marked by extraordinary luck.
Mu Zhian pondered this, realizing it might be too late for him to avoid conflict. "The younger generation generally doesn't hold grudges as they mature. It's not difficult to befriend Ye Yu," the elder advised. "His fiancée is staying overnight at our Mu residence," Mu Zhian mentioned succinctly. The Great Elder fell silent for a moment, then sighed, "So, this boy has indeed caught the Bai family's attention…"
Changing the topic, the elder continued, "You left the Mu family tonight to visit the Liang Yi Sect?" "Yes," Mu Zhian confirmed. "Mr. Ren informed me that to treat the head of the Bai family, I need the Beast King Vine, which can only be found in the Liang Yi Sect. Without the Bai family's assistance, you must proceed with caution."
"Additionally, focus on your cultivation. Once you enter the Liang Yi Sect, you can find several Dao partners and acquire any medicinal materials you desire," the elder warned, clearly advising Mu Zhian to prioritize his training over romantic pursuits. Mu Zhian hesitated, "But I've already found the Beast King Vine…"
Noticing the elder's silence, he quickly explained, "We encountered a fairy sister outside the Liang Yi Sect's gate. She gifted me a Beast King Vine in exchange for a furnace of elixirs." The elder took a long pause before responding, "Using external assistance is acceptable, but remember to improve your own strength."
"I understand, but the elder doesn't know I was born with a weak constitution," Mu Zhian admitted, acknowledging his reliance on others. The elder sighed softly, "You must strive for independence. It's disappointing to see such potential wasted."
Meanwhile, in the heart of Tianxuan City, a grand building adorned with classical elegance stood tall, its façade prominently displaying the name "Chenxi Auction House." This establishment is the largest auction house in Tianxuan City, a key asset of the Chenxi Chamber of Commerce. The following morning, Mu Zhian arrived at the auction house at the invitation of Feiying, the auctioneer.
Feiying, dressed in a red cheongsam that accentuated her alluring figure, sat beside Mu Zhian. Her graceful demeanor and the beauty mark beneath her right eye added to her charm. In the past, many items sold at the auction fetched high prices, partly due to young men hoping to win her favor. However, none had succeeded in capturing her heart.
"Master Mu, what do you wish to purchase today? I've prepared an elegant pavilion for you. My staff will escort you there shortly," she said with a captivating smile, her gaze fixed on him. Once, Mu Zhian was among those eager young men, spending lavishly at the auction to impress her. Auctioneers like Feiying favored patrons like him, often going the extra mile to cater to their needs. Yet, Feiying's reputation allowed her to maintain her standards without compromise.
Mu Zhian placed a note on the table, smiling, "I won't be attending the auction today. Please prepare three copies of the herbs listed here." Feiying examined the note and noted that the herbs were not particularly rare, so gathering them would be manageable. "Alright, I'll have them prepared right away," she agreed.
With a playful glint in her eye, she asked, "Are you really not going to join us for another round? Sister can offer you a special discount." As she leaned forward, a sense of pressure enveloped Mu Zhian. The allure of her figure was undeniable. He wrapped his arms around her waist, grinning, "If this is the discount you're offering, I'd be more than happy to accept."
Taken aback by his boldness, Feiying maintained her composure but blushed slightly. "This isn't the right place. Release me quickly, or it could lead to trouble if it gets out," she urged softly.
Mu Zhian chuckled, "Do you think I'm worried about my reputation?" He tightened his grip, teasing her further until she finally said, "You little pervert… let go!" Reluctantly, he released her and poured himself a cup of tea. Feiying stepped back, feeling a mix of embarrassment and intrigue as she observed the confident young man before her.
Mu Zhian had changed significantly; the rumors of his recent acts of justice seemed credible. His intervention against Gongsun Zan's humiliation of a woman had spread throughout Tianxuan City, though skeptics remained. In the past, Mu Zhian had been seen as a rebellious youth, and many found it hard to believe he could act nobly. Yet today, he exuded a newfound confidence that was undeniably attractive.
Realizing it wasn't the right moment to delve deeper into his transformation, Feiying quickly regained her composure. "Please wait here; I'll have someone prepare the medicinal materials for you," she instructed before turning to leave.
As she walked away, Mu Zhian called after her, "By the way, has President Huang arrived at the auction house?"
Feiying paused, glancing back at him with confusion. "Do you have business with our president?"
"He should be here, right?" Mu Zhian inquired.
Feiying nodded. "He mentioned waiting for an important guest today…"
Mu Zhian smiled, "Then please ask him to come over. The important guest has arrived."
Feiying hesitated, thinking he was joking. "I can't disturb the president like that," she replied, but Mu Zhian insisted, "I'm serious, Sister Fei. Just tell him I'm here; whether he comes or not is up to him."
After scrutinizing him again, Feiying realized he wasn't joking. Perhaps the important guest President Huang awaited was indeed the young master of the Mu family. With a charming smile, she said, "In that case, I'll inform the president, but I can't guarantee he'll come."
Mu Zhian nodded, watching her leave with an air of confidence. He wasn't worried that President Huang would ignore him; the president was shrewd and would recognize the significance of Mu Zhian's presence. With the Gongsun family sending thugs and the Mu family preparing to respond, it would be unwise for the Dawn Chamber of Commerce to remain passive. After all, dealing with demon cultivators required funding, and it wouldn't be appropriate for the Mu family to bear the costs alone. The Dawn Chamber of Commerce was perfectly positioned to assist.