Chapter 898 - 687: Journey to Qin Country
Yang Yunqiao, who was standing quietly nearby, stepped forward lightly, grasping the pot with her slender hand to pour him a cup of Spirit Tea. The fragrance lingered, refreshing the soul.
Shen Xuan lightly touched the warm rim of the cup with his fingertips, seemingly having finally made up his mind, he looked up and said, "Patriarch Yang’s hospitality is overwhelming, yet I, as a junior, cannot decline it. To settle in Siming Mountain for three to five years and cultivate with a calm heart is indeed a fine thing. However, I dare not neglect my studies even for a moment."
"This matter is easily resolved!"
Yang Shengguang clapped his hands and laughed, "I will have Zhao’er prepare a Tier Two Upper Grade Fire Spirit Cave Mansion for you. Mr. Shen can reside as an Honored Guest, without anyone disturbing you on ordinary days."
He paused slightly, then casually asked, "I wonder if Mr. Shen has dabbled in any cultivation techniques besides cultivating?"
The question was posed delicately, yet was truly a measure of his worth.
"I have always been quite interested in the path of Artifact Refining."
Shen Xuan stated truthfully, as this was indeed the direction he’d been researching lately.
He pondered briefly and then added, "Additionally, I have some understanding of Puppetry Technique."
"Puppetry Technique?"
A flash of light appeared in Yang Shengguang’s eyes.
This is a branch of Artifact Refining, relatively niche yet extremely practical.
In Yang Shengguang’s view, someone like Shen Yan as a major sect core, has precious time, yet he’s willing to dedicate to this path, which means he must already possess substantial skill.
"I’m rather ashamed."
Shen Xuan showed a hint of embarrassment.
"My Puppetry Technique only recently reached the Tier Two threshold. In leisure moments I use it for amusement; it’s a minor skill, nowhere near the grand arena."
"Mr. Shen is too modest!"
Yang Shengguang’s smile became more genuine.
"To specialize in fire technique, rigorously refine the body, and achieve Tier Two success in puppetry; such exceptional talent! Our Qin Country frequently engages in warfare, and Tier Two Puppets are coveted strategic resources by various factions."
Having a skill at hand means Shen Xuan will not take advantage of the Yang Family’s hospitality for free; he can make corresponding contributions.
Thus, hiring Shen Yan as an Honored Guest best demonstrates his value.
"Since that’s the case, let’s agree on it."
Yang Shengguang concluded firmly, "Mr. Shen shall temporarily reside in Siming Mountain, and should entrust Zhao’er with everyday affairs."
The exact tributor arrangement was not mentioned on the spot, left for Yang Yunzhao and Shen Xuan to discuss in detail.
This preserved room for negotiation while allowing the young ones to interact more and deepen their relationship.
This meeting was primarily intended by Yang Shengguang to verify the truth.
Through conversation and repeated exploration with Divine Sense, he was convinced of "Shen Yan’s" true identity.
Golden Sun Sect’s core fire technique, Eighth-Layer Foundation Establishment cultivation, Late Stage Golden Body Realm body refining, Tier Two Puppet Master...
Such talent, which sect would willingly send him as an undercover? Even sending him to Mingyan Palace would be an underutilization; much less his own small Core Formation family.
After casually chatting about fire technique insights for a moment, Yang Shengguang appeared slightly weary, kindly saying, "I am feeling a bit tired. Yunqiao, escort Mr. Shen on behalf of your father."
"Yes, Father."
Yang Yunqiao replied softly, stepped aside slightly, and gave a faint smile to Shen Xuan, "Please, Mr. Shen."
Upon leaving the main cabin, Yang Yunzhao did not rush to discuss the Honored Guest contract.
Instead, he invited Shen Xuan to his room and arranged a small banquet.
The room was elegantly furnished, aside from the old servant Fu Bo standing by, only Yang Yunzhao, Yang Yunqiao, and Yang Yunsu accompanied.
Shen Xuan glanced at Fu Bo.
With half-gray hair and slightly bent posture, he was proficient in both spirit technique and body refining, both at the early stage.
His aura was steady, yet carried a hint of the wear of his years.
When he looked at the Yang siblings, the unabashed affection and protection in his eyes were profoundly deep.
Yang Yunzhao made several attempts to invite Fu Bo to sit, but the old man declined with a bow, "It’s reassuring to serve standing."
Yang Yunzhao could only give up, then turned and whispered to Shen Xuan, "Fu Bo is our mother’s old servant, who’s looked after us growing up. Called a master-servant relationship, truly akin to family."
Upon hearing this, Shen Xuan nodded slightly to Fu Bo, respectfully calling him "Fu Bo."
The old man, somewhat apprehensive, returned the courtesy, with a warmth spreading in his crinkled eyes.
Soon, under Fu Bo’s management, a jade table was filled with delicious spirit meals, fragrances wafting.
Yang Yunzhao and Shen Xuan toasted with Spirit Wine, while Yang Yunqiao quietly drank tea instead.
The young Yang Yunsu gazed at the wine jug eagerly, ready to speak but was glared back by Fu Bo, and helplessly accepted the Spirit Fruit Juice.
The conversation mainly involved Yang Yunzhao and Shen Xuan, discussing Qin Country landscapes and cultivation insights, fostering a harmonious atmosphere.
Having his younger siblings accompany was both a show of trust from the Yang Family and a gesture of closeness.
Introducing family members to him, this gesture spoke louder than words.
Yang Yunzhao was fully aware.
An exemplary talent like "Shen Yan" from a sect cannot be retained at Siming Mountain for long.
This person is very likely to form an Inner Core in the future and soar to great heights.
Forging this good relationship now may be a precious connection in the future.
At this moment, Yang Yunzhao did not yet realize.
This sincere action is his most wise decision in this life!