Master Artisan Long heard this and thought for a moment before shaking his head. "An Xiaolang once studied under Eastern Court's former Profound Chief. It is said these things were also given to him by that person. That was a Profound Venerable, and his status is likely even higher now. If An Xiaolang is unwilling to hand them over, I fear it will be difficult for us to make him do so."
Master Artisan Yu said, "There are many methods. It depends only on whether he himself is willing. Some things need not be obtained through force. I know the old master of the An Clan, and An Xiaolang's teacher, Master Artisan Guo Ying, is also a master artisan of the General Academy. We can ask her to speak on our behalf."
Master Artisan Long asked, "Still no results?"
Master Artisan Yu said, "This matter cannot be rushed. Besides, several master artisans, including Brother Long, have yet to participate. If we can achieve a breakthrough, there will be no need to do this."
Master Artisan Long nodded. He walked forward two steps and looked toward the three divine creatures. However, he stood atop a high platform some distance away, and they had already reached its edge, so he could only make out their general outlines; the details remained unclear.
At that moment, a voice came from afar. "If Master Artisan Long wishes to have a closer look, you may go down and see for yourself."
Master Artisan Long turned his head and saw an inward-curving niche in the distant platform wall. A cultivator who appeared to be in his thirties sat cross-legged within it. The distance had been too great for him to notice anyone there earlier, yet the other man's voice had reached his ears with perfect clarity.
Master