Ling Dong retreated to the office behind the auction house, where two individuals were already waiting. These were the Teleportation Stage Experts who had previously showcased the Bloodless Command Token.
Upon entering, Ling Dong bowed respectfully toward the pair. “Elder Ran, Elder Wu, did that youngster truly provide 400 thousand jade essences?” he inquired.
One of the elders shook his head with a faint smile. “He didn't use jade essences for the payment; he offered an exchange instead.” With those words, he passed Zhao Hai’s spatial bag over to Ling Dong.
Ling Dong was momentarily stunned by this revelation. He smiled thinly and remarked, “I have full confidence in your judgment, Elder. I am simply curious to see the contents.” He took the bag and probed it using his spiritual force.
The moment he perceived the items inside, Ling Dong froze. A look of pure joy soon crossed his features as he looked up at the experts. “It is Resurrection Grass—and it’s a millennium old! This is worth 400—no, at least 500 thousand jade essences! Our profit this time is substantial.”
Observing Ling Dong’s delight, Elder Ran smiled. “I found it peculiar when the boy purchased those first two items, so I immediately ordered an investigation into his background. He is a member of the Blood Knife Gang, a group that recently relocated to Demonheart City. Their previous leader vanished not long ago. The youth goes by the name Zhao Ling and only recently joined their ranks. Apparently, he wasn't keen on joining at first. He hails from a declining clan that was once quite prestigious but lost its standing over the generations. This current generation produced three talents, and Zhao Ling is one of them.”
“The three left their home in hopes of restoring the clan's former glory. Given such a background, it isn't shocking that they possess treasures like Resurrection Grass. This Zhao Ling is quite impressive; he kept the existence of the grass a secret from everyone. It’s evident he understands that jade essences alone won't revive a clan—they need power. He chose to sacrifice the Resurrection Grass for the Bloodless Command Token to secure a chance at greater strength within the Forbidden Path Sect. In my view, he made the most logical choice.”
Ling Dong nodded in agreement, letting out a sigh. “I truly misjudged the youth of today. I didn't suspect that the ordinary-looking Zhao Ling possessed such foresight. It’s a shame he didn't pursue a career in commerce; he would have amassed a fortune easily.”
Elder Wu offered a slight smile. “This boy is going to bring a storm upon the Blood Knife Gang. Since that man in the black robe threatened him, he will undoubtedly investigate the boy's ties. Zhao Ling clearly knows that people will target his associates. Even if the Blood Knife Gang is caught in the crossfire, he won't waver. He is the type to endure and strike back when the time is right. Such individuals are frightening. They are willing to sacrifice anything for their objectives. Even if their kin were slain before them, they wouldn't blink. But once they possess the power to act, they will repay the debt tenfold, or even a hundredfold.”
Ling Dong nodded and sighed again. “Elder Wu, do you believe we should establish a connection with Zhao Ling? We could provide assistance when the time is right. Given his talent, if he survives the Blood Demon Trial, both his gang and his clan will have a bright future. If we earn his gratitude now, we will reap the rewards later.”
Ling Dong’s suggestion stemmed from the fact that they were members of the Forbidden Path Sect. Because their cultivation potential was capped, they had been stationed externally to manage the sect's finances. Despite their contributions, the sect placed the highest value on those with the talent to advance further on the Dao. Any disciple with high potential held a superior status. For those affiliated with the Forbidden Path Sect who wished to avoid being marginalized, investing in promising disciples was essential. Once such a disciple rose to become a powerful expert, they would serve as a benefactor within the sect.
Elder Wu and Elder Ran contemplated Ling Dong’s proposal. After a moment, Elder Wu nodded. “That is feasible. Attempt to make contact with Zhao Ling first, and then we will decide our next move.”
Elder Ran concurred, adding, “Zhao Ling's primary concerns right now should be his clan and the Blood Knife Gang. His clan is located too far away to be a realistic target; no one would travel such a distance to take hostages. Therefore, the Blood Knife Gang is his biggest vulnerability. If we intend to support him, we should protect the gang. That way, Zhao Ling will be indebted to us.”
Ling Dong nodded. “Regardless, our priority is reaching out to him. Also, tighten the security in Windchase Town. Ensure no one stirs up trouble. If anyone dares to cause a disturbance, execute them immediately.”
Even though Ling Dong was stationed away from the Forbidden Path Sect’s headquarters, his ability to generate wealth granted him significant influence. He had even been appointed as the head of the sect's branch hall in Windchase Town. Given his rank, issuing such a command was well within his authority.
The two elders nodded. Elder Ran noted, “We still haven't identified that man in the black robe. If trouble arises, it will likely come from him. Others wouldn't dare provoke the Forbidden Path Sect; they must curb their greed if they wish to remain in our territory. It is quite strange that we haven't discovered the identity of that black-robed man yet.”
Ling Dong frowned. “He is indeed an enigma. It’s impossible for someone capable of producing so many jade essences to be a nobody. We must keep a close watch on him.”
“I’ll handle it,” Elder Ran replied before departing. Elder Wu stood and followed suit. Watching them leave, Ling Dong thought back to Zhao Hai and whispered, “That kid is certainly interesting.”
Meanwhile, Zhao Hai had already returned to the inn with Qin Feng. Qin Feng had remained silent throughout the walk and continued to be unresponsive even after they arrived. Shopkeeper Wang noticed his strange behavior and stared in confusion, wondering what could have caused such a state. It took several calls for Qin Feng to finally react, though he still seemed dazed.
Worried, Shopkeeper Wang turned to Zhao Hai. “Little Ling, what’s wrong with him?”
Zhao Hai gave a soft smile. “He’s fine. Uncle Wang, please bring us some food and wine. I’ll share a few drinks with him.” Though puzzled, Shopkeeper Wang nodded and went to prepare the meal. Soon, the table was set.
Zhao Hai lifted his cup and looked at his companion. “Brother Qin, is there something you wish to say?”
Qin Feng stared at Zhao Hai for a long time. He grabbed his glass and drained it in a single gulp. “Did you deceive me?” he asked. “Are you actually with the Blood Knife Gang? How do you possess such wealth?”
Zhao Hai smiled calmly. “I didn't lie. I am indeed a member of the Blood Knife Gang. The reason I could afford those auction items is that I didn't pay with jade essences.”
Qin Feng gasped. “Not jade essences? That's impossible. How else would the auction house hand over the Bloodless Command Token?”
Zhao Hai explained, “I provided something far more valuable than 400 thousand jade essences, which is why they accepted the trade. As for the earlier purchases—well, that was a combination of gang funds, clan resources, and my personal savings.”
Qin Feng was skeptical. “What could possibly be worth that much? Are you being truthful?”
Zhao Hai maintained his calm expression. “I am. It was a treasure passed down through my clan. Initially, I planned to sell it for jade essences to help the clan grow. But I realized that money alone won't solve our problems. I traded it for the Bloodless Command Token instead. By joining the Forbidden Path Sect, I can rise to a high position and provide real protection for my clan. I am playing the long game to restore our glory.”
Qin Feng frowned. “But what if you fail? What if you perish in the Blood Demon Realm a year from now? What becomes of your clan then?”
Zhao Hai’s expression turned somber. “I can't afford to think like that. Simply having jade essences would not truly help a weak clan. In fact, possessing too much wealth without the power to defend it would only invite disaster.”
Qin Feng grew quiet, realizing Zhao Hai was right. In this world, wealth without strength was nothing more than a death warrant.
After another drink, Qin Feng looked at Zhao Hai. “Brother, I misjudged you. What is your plan now?”
“What else? I must prepare for the trial,” Zhao Hai replied. “I need to head to Gale Canyon.”
Qin Feng’s face paled. “That’s a terrible idea! Brother, you are being watched. Stepping outside now is suicide. Trust me, you must stay put. You’ve already secured your spot in the Forbidden Path Sect; there’s no need to take unnecessary risks.”
Zhao Hai shook his head bitterly. “Staying here is the wrong move. Even if I don't need the entrance exam, I still have to face the trial in the Blood Demon Realm in a year. With my current level of cultivation, I wouldn't survive. I must increase my strength now if I want to live through that realm.”
Qin Feng was stunned, realizing he had overlooked the inevitability of the Blood Demon Realm. No cultivator would pass up the chance the token provided, but Zhao Hai’s current Foundation Establishment level was insufficient for the dangers ahead.
Qin Feng downed another cup, his breath smelling of alcohol. “Fine. I’ll go with you. I’ll be your bodyguard.”
Zhao Hai waved him off. “No, that would only draw more attention. However, you should stay in Windchase Town until I officially join the sect. Those watching me are likely watching you too. If you leave, they will strike. Stay here for at least three months and help Uncle Wang at the inn. I’m sorry for bringing this trouble to your door.”
Qin Feng frowned. “I can handle staying in town, but I'm worried about your safety out there.”
Zhao Hai glanced around to ensure the shop was empty. Using voice transmission, he whispered, “Don't worry, Brother Qin. I possess a high-level disguise technique. Once I change my looks, no one will find me. You don't need to be concerned.”
Understanding Zhao Hai’s reasoning, Qin Feng nodded and replied via voice transmission, “Very well. But we should still maintain a cover. We will tell everyone you have gone into closed-door cultivation here so no one suspects you’ve left.”
