Under Wang Zhekuo's arrangements, Jiang Tian was settled into a spirit-vein inn in the most prosperous district of Jade Water City.
The inn was of the highest caliber, monopolizing a branch of a small spirit vein. Every guest room had its own Spirit-Gathering Array and soundproof barrier, and opening the window gave one a view over Jade Water City's busiest main street.
Before leaving, Wang Zhekuo had sworn with utmost confidence that he would report the auction matter to Zhang Guiying in person as soon as he returned and would certainly arrange the best bidding position for Jiang Tian.
As for the fifty thousand spirit stones, they would have to wait until Zhang Guiying arrived.
Jiang Tian was in no rush. The auction would not begin for several more days, so he could use the time to continue cultivating.
Thus, he settled into the inn without a care. Each day, aside from breathing exercises and cultivation, he deduced sword techniques. Occasionally, he would push open the window to watch the bustling street below. His days were peaceful enough.
Until this day, when Wang Zhekuo returned. His expression, however, was even more peculiar than before.
Inside a pavilion in Jade Water City's core district, Wang Zhekuo stood before a large rosewood desk. Staring dumbfoundedly at the middle-aged man opposite him—his face fair as jade, three long strands of beard hanging from his chin—he blurted out, "What? Make peace with the Purple Cloud Alliance? Zhang Guiying! You're not joking with me, are you?!"
This jade-faced middle-aged man was none other than the Jade Water Alliance's vice alliance leader—Wang Zhekuo's brother-in-law, Zhang Guiying.
Zhang Guiying sat in a grandmaster's chair, his expression tranquil as his fingers tapped idly against the tabletop.
After a moment, he raised his head and looked at Wang Zhekuo