The preliminary negotiations between the seven worms—no, the seven hidden dragons—went quite smoothly, and everyone's attitude toward the others was friendly.
Then Zhang Yang, a complete newbie, naturally seized the opportunity to ask about a question that had troubled him for a long time.
"What is transcendence?"
Hearing this question, Yuan Gang, Liu Kai, and the others exchanged knowing glances. In the end, Liu Yu spoke up. "This question requires payment. We're not trying to make things difficult for you; it's simply tradition. Back then, I asked a senior about the same thing, and he only said one sentence: 'Information and intelligence are the most precious things. What makes you think I'll answer you for free? I'm not your father.'"
"That sentence left a deep impression on me. I imagine everyone here has had the same experience. So, Zhang Yang, to make up for the psychological trauma I suffered back then, I have to repeat those exact words to you!"
"Information and intelligence are the most precious things. What makes you think we'll answer you for free? We're not your fathers!"
"Of course, you can also choose to wait until you return to reality. The government's experts will answer you for free."
Zhang Yang listened seriously without showing the slightest displeasure. He had long since experienced the tradition of charging for information and intelligence. But it was only right. The intelligence others possessed had been obtained at enormous cost. Why should they obediently tell you everything just because you asked?
Still, he had another question.
"Will you divide the spoils unfairly?"
"No. I'm the one who spoke first this time, so even if they know the answer, they won't compete with me for the reward. Let's begin, then. One hundred thousand jin of grain per question." Liu Yu sat up