Actually, You Don't Have to Hold Back

Fang Mo set down his wine cup and looked at Tao Shang. "Brother Tao, are you looking to partner up on pills?"

Tao Shang smiled.

"Exactly. With your alchemy, you're definitely among the best in this trial ground. You've got the skill, and I've got the ingredients and connections. I can take every pill you make, and you'll earn far more than you would selling them at a stall. It won't be long before the two of us are making a fortune!"

Fang Mo gave him an apologetic smile. "I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you, Brother Tao. I only practice alchemy to hone my skills and make pills for myself. Once I've sold what I made today, I plan to head into the wilderness to train. I won't have time to make pills."

Tao Shang showed no disappointment. Instead, he smiled.

"What's the problem? Whenever you have time, we can get started. I'll supply the ingredients, and we'll split the pills fifty-fifty. I'm not asking you to make any particular amount, and I won't set a schedule. Just come by whenever you're free. How does that sound?"

Fang Mo considered it for a moment.

"It's worth considering. I can give it a try after I get back from the wilderness."

Tao Shang smiled.

"No problem. I'll have my men get everything ready. When you get back, just head over. If I'm not there, someone will be available to help you. Just tell them what ingredients you want, and they'll get them ready."

There was nothing for Fang Mo to lose, and someone else would supply the ingredients. That was far more cost-effective than buying them himself—it was practically getting something for nothing. Naturally, he had no reason to refuse.

The two of them shared a pot of wine. Tao