"Your lifespan is no longer in danger?"
Shi Tianlu looked at the dark red ends of Shi Lan's hair, delight shining in his eyes.
"My cultivation has improved a little. I'm fine now."
Shi Lan shook her head and glanced toward the half-open courtyard gate.
"Where's Mother?"
Her divine sense had already swept over the entire courtyard, but she hadn't found Su Lanyue. Even her two younger brothers weren't at the residence.
"Your mother happened to have some business to take care of, so she went out. She'll be back shortly. Come home first."
Shi Tianlu waved a hand and pulled Shi Lan toward the entrance. He gave little thought to her claim that her cultivation had improved. As long as the danger to her lifespan was resolved, that was cause for immense celebration.
"Brother Shi, the people from the merchant association are still waiting."
A voice came from nearby. Shi Lan followed it and saw an unfamiliar middle-aged man in purple robes. He had a short beard and shrewd eyes, and exuded the air of a businessman.
"My apologies. I lost myself for a moment and completely forgot. Please let Brother Luo know that the deal is off. I'll send compensation over shortly."
Shi Tianlu came to his senses and spoke with some embarrassment.
"How can that be..."
The middle-aged man in purple furrowed his brow. His gaze lingered for a moment on Tian Bai, perched on Shi Lan's shoulder, and he was about to speak when his eyes accidentally caught the pale golden jade token hanging from the corner of Shi Lan's sash. It was only partly visible, but his pupils immediately contracted. He quickly changed his tune.
"Brother Shi, you're far too polite. A deal may fall through, but the friendship remains. There's no need to speak