Put It in Writing

"I know you definitely won't believe me when I say this, but I have a letter from Pill King Senior here. It contains records of our correspondence. Why don't you take a good look?"

Yun Shenwei put on an act as he pulled a letter from his robe. In truth, it was a prop he had prepared in advance for today's performance.

Xiao Zhan hurriedly took the letter and began reading it carefully. Xiao Yan also leaned in at that moment. After all, he had always cared deeply about whether his cultivation could be restored. As for whom he would marry, he had never really thought about it. Besides, he did not have any particularly strong feelings for Nalan Yanran.

"You should look over its contents as well. I truly wasn't lying to you. My teacher is especially formidable, a legendary figure. His abilities even surpass those of Pill King Gu He. That is precisely why I have this status, and why he was willing to help me."

"You all know that alchemists have always been noble and exceptionally proud. It is absolutely impossible for ordinary people to ask them for help. I'm sure you understand that.

"So, if I hadn't spoken up, I'm afraid you wouldn't have been able to invite Pill King Gu He either... Ah, what a pity. Xiao Yan was born with astonishing talent. If he developed it properly, his future achievements would not fall far short of mine. If his bright future were delayed by romantic entanglements, that would truly be such a shame."

As Yun Shenwei spoke, he wiped at the corners of his eyes, as though he truly sympathized with Xiao Yan's plight.

"Father, I actually don't like Nalan Yanran at all. Although there is a marriage agreement between us, there has never been any affection between us. Before this, I had never even met her.

"Since Shenwei Ge and Nalan Yanran are in love, why not help them fulfill their wishes? If word gets out, people will call it a fine tale instead of deliberately mocking our family.

"Your son has always been exceptionally gifted, but for some strange reason, I lost my cultivation. If I am going to be a cripple for the rest of my life, then what difference would marrying Nalan Yanran make? Others would still call me a useless pretty boy who could only live off a woman. That is not the life I want.

"Besides, that sort of reputation would not be much better than having the marriage called off. It might even sound worse. Rather than that, why not be decisive and help them fulfill their wishes? Wouldn't everyone be happy?"

Xiao Yan had his own plans. In truth, as someone from Blue Water Star, he viewed marriage very clearly. He was not as stubborn and rigid as the people of this world.

"What you said is indeed right. Of course I understand these principles. I may be able to agree, but those old fellows in the clan may not agree!"

Xiao Zhan thought for a moment, then solemnly shook his head.

"Actually, Clan Leader Xiao, there is no need to worry too much about this matter. If we handle it well, perhaps there will be other gains?"

Yun Shenwei lifted the tea on the table, took a sip, and said calmly:

"Although your family has some renown in Wu Tan City, you cannot remain here forever. Wu Tan City is ultimately just a tiny place. If you help me with this matter, your son will have a chance to recover his strength. Moreover, Canaan Academy will soon be coming here to recruit new students. With a recommendation from my Yun Lan Sect, I believe Xiao Yan will have no problem entering Canaan Academy.

"Clan Leader Xiao, think carefully. What does it mean to build a good relationship with the Yun Lan Sect and with a future top genius like me?

"Furthermore, your son can recover his strength and study at Canaan Academy. I'm sure you know Canaan Academy's standing. It has produced many powerful figures.

"I'm sure you don't want your son to spend his entire life like you, throwing his weight around only in this little Wu Tan City, do you?"

Every word Yun Shenwei spoke struck home. He did not excessively mock the other man's status, nor did he overly praise himself. He simply discussed the matter as it was.

"What you say is indeed true. If I agree to this, it really would be the best outcome."

Xiao Zhan nodded without denying it. He naturally knew that the young man's words were all true.

"And you heard what your son said just now. He has no feelings for Nalan Yanran himself. A forced melon is never sweet. You do not need to handle matters with the Nalan Family; I will take care of them. As for the public opinion you're worried about, that is even less of a problem. All I need is a little money to easily shut those people's foul mouths."

Yun Shenwei revealed his sharp edge, laying out most of his intentions at that moment.

By then, Xiao Zhan understood the other party's true purpose, but he had no reason to refuse. Just as the other party had said, accepting would be the best outcome for both his family and his son. Refusing, on the other hand, would only make things worse. He might not even be able to preserve his so-called dignity.

Xiao Zhan was, after all, a father. He was not merely the clan leader. As long as one was human, one would inevitably have selfish desires.

He had three sons in total. His two slightly older sons had already gone out to gain experience, leaving only this third son by his side.

Xiao Yan had displayed remarkable talent when he was young, making many people envious. But the accident of several years ago had caused Xiao Yan to lose everything, and as his father, Xiao Zhan had been deeply saddened as well.

Before his wife died, Xiao Zhan had promised her that he would ensure Xiao Yan lived out his life safely and happily.

But now, he had not fulfilled that promise at all!

The life Xiao Yan had lived these past few years had been worse than death. Every day, he endured the mockery and humiliation of others.

Yet Xiao Zhan had no solution whatsoever. The main reason was that this was a world where strength reigned supreme. No matter one's status, without strength, no one had any reason to show respect.

"Fine. Since Brother Shenwei has the best way to handle this, I agree. I will assist you throughout the entire process."

After a brief consideration, Xiao Zhan agreed. The matter was already set in motion, and refusing would be inappropriate. It would only make him seem excessively stubborn.

Among his many brothers, he had risen to the position of clan leader not merely because his talent was the most outstanding. More importantly, his heart and vision were broader and more far-sighted than those of his other brothers.

"Words alone are no proof. Let us draw up a Written Agreement. That way, we will have a proper contract, and things will be more secure and convenient afterward. It will also inspire greater trust."

At that moment, Yun Shenwei took out the Written Agreement he had prepared in advance and began guiding them toward the next step.