He held up two fingers. "Generally speaking, there are two paths."
"First, render great service to the merchant guild," he explained.
"For example, escorting an exceptionally valuable shipment and preventing the guild from suffering enormous losses;
or opening up a new, highly profitable supply channel for the guild... In short,
it must be a contribution great enough to win the recognition of the proprietor and several Head Shopkeepers.
Once such a great service is rendered, an exception can be made to grant you the method, as both reward and inducement."
"As for the second..." Hu Lao San paused, lowering his voice, his tone becoming somewhat subtle.
"It is to sign a long-term contract with the merchant guild, or even a death contract."
Seeing Fang Yuan's gaze shift slightly, he elaborated.
"A long-term contract lasts at least ten or twenty years. Whether you live or die, stay or leave, is decided by the merchant guild. Put simply, you bind your entire life and livelihood tightly to the guild.
The guild, in turn, provides resources to aid your cultivation, including this Qi Gathering Method.
If you sign the even harsher death contract... then your family will belong to the merchant guild for generations, sharing glory and disgrace—when one suffers, all suffer; when one prospers, all prosper.
The benefit is that you will receive more resources and trust, but... your freedom will be completely handed over."
Having said that, he stared straight at Fang Yuan, a meaningful look in his eyes.
Fang Yuan showed just the right amount of surprise. Then his eyes shifted, as though he had suddenly understood something.
A look of realization appeared on his face: So that's how it is. Something this precious naturally calls for greater caution.
The expression was not forced. It seemed entirely born from genuine