Hearing Li Qing admit it so openly, a glimmer of surprise lit Qian Hong's beautiful eyes. Then she asked expectantly:
"Master Gu said back then that you had learned seventy or eighty percent of his craft. It seems he was still holding back. At the time, I truly thought you were merely an ordinary blacksmith's apprentice!"
"I should be calling you Master Li now!"
Li Qing waved his hand and said modestly, "I was merely lucky. Commander Qian thinks too highly of me."
Qian Hong had a straightforward nature and could not be bothered to continue trading compliments with Li Qing.
"I want you to forge a sword for me. I have already prepared the materials myself. Name your price for the payment."
It had finally come!
To be honest, Li Qing was not particularly interested in gold, silver, or treasures. Money only needed to be enough to spend; if it was not enough, he could always find a way to get some from the Eternal Night World.
What he wanted from Qian Hong were other benefits—special ores like Ink Gold, for example. He had always been extremely interested in such things.
"Commander Qian, I am sure you understand that weapons like peerless divine armaments cannot simply be forged whenever one wishes. I need my essence, energy, and spirit to be in exceptionally good condition before I can forge one."
"As for gold, silver, and other treasures, I am not someone who regards wealth as life itself."
Qian Hong had expected Li Qing to say this. She was not disappointed; she merely knew that her offer had not been enough to move him.
Not wanting money was perfectly normal. A blacksmith with such craftsmanship was destined never to lack for money!
"I see that Master Li seems interested in martial