"We really made the right choice coming here."
The Rainy Season is over.
This wave of Strange Tide that had traveled from afar temporarily chose to cease hostilities, and everything seemed to have fallen into Peace.
But...
That's just the surface.
Shortly after dawn, the heavy rain finally stopped, and the long-awaited sunshine finally shone on the "Yellow Springs Mouth Region".
"Wang, wake up, wake up!"
The Old Strange Entity looked at the Azure Phantom Black Tortoise rapidly approaching from outside the City, and somewhat anxiously shook awake the Ghost Emperor sleeping beside him on the City Wall.
The Ghost Emperor, groggily awakened, jumped up as if on cue, quickly scanning his surroundings. He soon spotted the Azure Phantom Black Tortoise charging towards the City Wall City. He reacted instantly, without hesitation, and stepped over the City Wall.
Suspended in the air.
The figure was shrouded in Gray Fog as it shot towards the Yellow Springs Mouth Sea.
It's a long story.
It's really long.
It has been about ten days since he negotiated peace with the Mortal Domain, and everything is normal with neither side interfering with the other.
When he fled the Yellow Springs Mouth Region, he quickly shook off the Azure Phantom Black Tortoise.
One thing must be admitted.
Although the Azure Black Tortoise was ethereal and nearly invincible, it was still Black Tortoise after all, and its speed was far inferior to his. Except for being a little faster at the beginning of the charge, it was quickly pulled ahead of him.
He even stayed in the City in the Yellow Springs Mouth Region, happily waiting until dawn.
But soon after dawn...
Something's not right.
At the edge of the plain, he saw the Azure Black Tortoise again. It was much slower than before, but its target was extremely determined, as if it had locked onto him, charging straight toward the City Wall.
He kept running.
They led the Black Tortoise all the way to the sea.
Then, humming a little tune, he sped up and returned to the Yellow Springs Mouth Region.
Then.
The next day, the Azure Black Tortoise rushed from the Sea Domain to the Yellow Springs Mouth Region again.
From then on, it haunted him like a vengeful ghost.
She clung to him tightly and wouldn't let go.
After that.
Every day was like this: he would take the Black Tortoise to the depths of the Sea Domain in the morning, and then the next morning, the Black Tortoise would reappear in the Yellow Springs Mouth Region and charge at him.
He considered countless ways to completely eliminate this Azure Black Tortoise.
But it was useless.
Completely illusory, immune to all forms of attack.
He tried digging a big hole and burying it.
No.
This thing can actually become completely ethereal and pass right through the Soil.
He tried sending a message to the Mortal Domain, and the response from the Mortal Domain was...
I don't know.
He couldn't hold back any longer and sent another inquiry to the Mortal Domain.
The Mortal Domain gave him another answer.
I really don't know.
"Delicious, so satisfying!"
Chen Fan stood happily by the pot, picked up a Dumplings with his chopsticks, blew on it, and put it in his mouth. Dumplings are best eaten hot. At this moment, Wang Kui's Message Talisman was slightly warm in his arms before he spoke.
"Domain Lord."
"News has come from the Mortal Domain Yellow Springs Mouth Defense Line. Jiu Wu is still asking how to shake off that Azure Black Tortoise."
"Hmm..."
Chen Fan looked at the information about the Black Tortoise Cannon on the Endless Night Lord Panel Depths of the Soul.
Building Name: Black Tortoise Cannon
Building grade: Blue Grade.
Building Level: 10.
"Architectural Effect": Defensive Structure.
"Max-Level Effect": Black Tortoise Appears: One of the Four Divine Cannons, it simultaneously creates four Divine Cannons that can be fused into the Heavenly Dao Cannon.
He tested the Black Tortoise Cannon back then.
At that time, at the "Mortal Domain Yellow Springs Mouth Defense Line," a horde of Meatworm Wraith Tide attacked, and he fired a Black Tortoise Cannon.
The formed "Azure Black Tortoise" began to slaughter the Meatworm Wraith Tide.
Soon.
The Meatworm Wraith Tide was then cleared away.
Then, having lost its target, the "Azure Black Tortoise" stood on the ground in a daze for a long time before slowly dissipating into the air. The data it recorded at that time was equivalent to the burning of two incense sticks.
This Azure Black Tortoise can only last for two incense sticks.
Why did this last for more than ten days?
He genuinely didn't know.
There is no relevant information recorded on the panel.
Perhaps...
Chen Fan thoughtfully picked up another Dumplings and placed it in the Vinegar Dish he was holding. If the target didn't dissipate, would this Azure Black Tortoise keep locking onto it until it disappeared?
Etc-
He suddenly seemed to have guessed something.
If that's really the case, then he probably knows what the "Heavenly Dao Cannon" is.
The Four Divine Cannons each possess a unique ability to govern rules.
The Black Tortoise Cannon's rule-based ability is Absolute Lock-On.
It will only dissipate when the target dies.
The combination of the four types of Divine Cannon with different rule-based abilities is... "Heavenly Dao Cannon".
This is just speculation at this point.
After all, it's unknown how long the pursuit of the "Ghost Emperor" Azure Black Tortoise can last. It has only lasted for about ten days now, and it might dissipate in another ten days or half a month.
If it can really continue indefinitely, or even not indefinitely, just for thirty or fifty years.
That was absolutely torture.
Pure torture.
Every day, the moment I open my eyes, I have to start racing against time.
The Ghost Emperor is fast.
If someone is slow, they'll basically be racing all the time, with virtually no rest time.
He now understood why firing the Black Tortoise Cannon required 1 million Eerie Stone.
That energy was all used to maintain the Black Tortoise's size.
"In spite of."
Chen Fan casually waved his hand, picked up another Dumplings and put it in the Vinegar Dish in his hand. "Just say it can't be solved, and also send someone to keep an eye on it and see when that Black Tortoise will dissipate."
"I'm curious too."
After the meal.
Chen Fan, along with Qi Yue and the others, disguised themselves and secretly left the Mortal Domain by taking the Mortal Domain High-Speed Rail.
This is the destination.
The heart of the Eternal Night Continent.
No one knew that Chen Fan was on the High-Speed Rail heading to the "Eternal Night Western Black Tortoise Frontline One." If the Ghost Emperor below found out, it wouldn't be a good thing. Although there was a temporary truce, if the Ghost Emperor found a way to kill Chen Fan, he believed the Ghost Emperor wouldn't hold back.
When the High-Speed Rail passes over the "Yellow Springs Mouth Region".
Sitting on the High-Speed Rail, Chen Fan looked down and saw countless Strange Tide, almost covering the sky, and many of these Strange Entities were even planting crops.
"That's quite unusual."
He curled his lip. "Do Strange Entities eat food?"
"Probably not."
The Crippled Monkey shook its head. "If these Strange Entities needed to eat, they would have starved to death in the Sea Domain long ago. They probably don't need to eat. Planting crops now is probably just to imitate human behavior. They... are trying too hard to become human."
And just then...
Chen Fan happened to see the Ghost Emperor returning from afar, panting heavily, standing out conspicuously among the crowd of Strange Tide.
It is over ten meters tall.
Unlike other Strange Entities that are not Humanoid Form, this Ghost Emperor is almost indistinguishable from a human. It has no tail, no claws, and only its eye sockets are bloodshot and bright red.
It was like a Giant.
His face was etched with exhaustion.
This was the first time he had seen the Ghost Emperor in person. He only glanced at him briefly before quickly looking away. He didn't know if the Ghost Emperor could sense his gaze, but it was best not to look at him for too long.
The High-Speed Rail sped by.
Before long, it left the Yellow Springs Mouth Region and headed towards the "Autumnbright Basin" along the Empty Rail. Instead of continuing to the "Eternal Night Western Black Tortoise Frontline One", it stopped halfway.
The Flying Boat that was taking off nearby was already prepared.
After quickly changing their mode of transportation, the group boarded Flying Boat and continued deeper into the heart of the Eternal Night Continent.
Destination --
"Black Tortoise Plains".
This is the heart of the Eternal Night Continent, surrounded by no sea on any side. It is also one of the few completely intact areas on the Eternal Night Continent, and there is no defense line here.
Before the node breaks.
No Strange Entities that lands from the Seabed will break through the defenses and reach this area.
Certainly.
There are still some natural Strange Entities around, but the safety level has been greatly improved.
"Combat state and pursuit state."
Sitting on the Flying Boat, Chen Fan flipped through the information in his hand. According to the information he obtained, the "Azure Black Tortoise" could be roughly divided into two types.
When first summoned, it is in battle mode, at which point it is fast and extremely powerful.
But once the target is locked, it enters pursuit mode.
At this point, it will become a completely illusory state. In other words, it will not have any effect on other creatures. Just like the Black Tortoise that chased the Ghost Emperor, it rushed through the Strange Tide but did not crush any of the Strange Entities. It passed directly through the Strange Entities' bodies.
It will not cause any damage to the City Wall or anything like that.
It will only damage the locked target.
"That's interesting."
Chen Fan pondered thoughtfully. After flying for half a day, the Flying Boat slowly came to a stop. Weiwei began digging a hole on the spot. After the hole was dug, he built a Signal Tower and placed it in the hole.
They then covered the pit before moving forward again.
He was traveling alone this time.
However, the connection with the Mortal Domain cannot be severed.
This would allow him to know the situation in the Mortal Domain immediately, and... in case of an enemy, he could activate the "Mortal Domain Missile" instantly.
The two "Mortal Domain Missile Storage Base" have been fully charged after the arrival of the Rainy Season and are ready to fire at any time.
A full Four Thousand, Max-Level Sky-Piercing Pillar.
Ready to serve at any time.
Three days later.
The Flying Boat slowly landed on the edge of the "Black Tortoise Plains," and after hiding Flying Boat in a Canyon, they switched back to ordinary Skeleton Horse and headed to the nearest City.
This was their first time venturing into the heart of the Eternal Night Continent.
Sitting in the Horse-Drawn Carriage, Chen Fan lifted the curtain and looked outside. After many days of travel, he was also a little tired and wanted to find Inn to rest for the night.
He had never seen vast stretches of Farmland outside before.
Aren't the people here worried that their Farmland will be destroyed by Strange Entities?
The Crippled Monkey also looked on hesitantly and said, "Perhaps there are some protective measures?"
It's not fair to call it a time of peace and prosperity.
But the people here are in a much better mental state than those in other areas; they don't have that sense of despair that comes with the possibility of dying at any moment in the mouth of Strange Entities.
Soon.
He saw a City at the end of the plain.
Even though they were extremely far away, he could still see the three large characters "Black Tortoise City" carved on the City, which should have been some kind of flag or banner.
The Horse-Drawn Carriage began to accelerate.
They headed towards the City.
But not long after.
"Stop!"
Chen Fan frowned slightly, lifted the curtain, and looked at the City in the distance. He had clearly seen the City only Thousand Meters, but after the Horse-Drawn Carriage had traveled for so long, why did the City seem even farther away?
He rubbed his eyes, wondering if he was seeing things.
"Young Master."
The Crippled Monkey rubbed his eyes. "I think I'm seeing things. Why does the City seem to be getting farther and farther away?"
"Keep going."
Chen Fan didn't say much. This time, he didn't lower the curtains and ordered the Horse-Drawn Carriage to continue. This time, he could see clearly that when the Horse-Drawn Carriage was about Thousand Meters away from the City, he felt that the distance was getting farther and farther.
The Horse-Drawn Carriage was clearly moving forward, but the distance between them seemed to be increasing.
"Damn it."
Chen Fan looked up at the sun hanging overhead. If it weren't Daytime, he would have thought he had stumbled upon a ghost town. The Black Tortoise Plains had given him a rude awakening right from his arrival.
"I'll get off; you continue on your way."
This time.
Chen Fan stepped down from the Horse-Drawn Carriage, leaning on his Jadeite Staff, and stood there, looking at "Black Tortoise City" Thousand Meters away and the Horse-Drawn Carriage beside him.
The Horse-Drawn Carriage began to move forward quickly.
They quickly passed him and approached Black Tortoise City, but he clearly saw that as the Horse-Drawn Carriage was about to get close to Black Tortoise City, it began to retreat, retreating continuously until it was right next to him.
The Horse-Drawn Carriage was actually moving backwards!
But they didn't feel it at all while inside the carriage; they only felt that the Horse-Drawn Carriage was moving forward!
"Young Master."
When the Crippled Monkey saw the Young Master reappear outside the window, it immediately realized what was happening, jumped off the Horse-Drawn Carriage, and said rather awkwardly, "It's a bit like being trapped in a maze."
Just then -
Suddenly, a silvery laugh rang in their ears.
"How many?"
"Outsider"?
Chen Fan looked in the direction of the sound and saw a Pink Horse-Drawn Carriage decorated in an extremely flamboyant manner parked next to their Horse-Drawn Carriage. The curtains were drawn back, and a slightly chubby-faced girl was smiling at them.
"Exactly."
He clasped his hands in a respectful bow before speaking, "We, the 'Qi Tian Commerce,' have come to Black Tortoise City seeking business opportunities. However, we are unaware of the strangeness of this Black Tortoise City. Could you please enlighten us, Young Lady?"
"From the Chamber of the Trade Association?"
The girl's eyes suddenly lit up. She quickly lowered the curtain, then lifted the hem of her skirt and stepped down from the Horse-Drawn Carriage. She walked quickly to the two of them, coughed lightly in a proper manner, and began to explain like a schoolteacher.
"This Black Tortoise City has stood on the Black Tortoise Plains for 78 years."
"One of the biggest reasons why the City Wall has never been overrun by Strange Entities over the years is that it has a special upgrade path; the closer you get to it, the further you are from the City Wall."
"Horse-Drawn Carriage, Flying Boat, and walking."
"None of those will work."
Even Strange Entities cannot get close.
Only those holding a "Passage Token" for Black Tortoise City are allowed to enter the city.
"Black Tortoise City is known to almost everyone in the Black Tortoise Plains. How can you not even know that? Are you Trade Association from the Black Tortoise Plains?"
"Normally, Trade Association entering Black Tortoise City for the first time need to purchase Passage Token from the pavilion ten miles to the West before they can enter the city."
"But..."
The girl paused deliberately before taking out a "bronze Token" from her bosom and handing it to Chen Fan: "I have an extra Passage Token here, I'll give it to you as a token of friendship."
6
Chen Fan took the Token from his hand. The familiar scent told him it was definitely from "Life Workshop." He raised an eyebrow and smiled, saying, "Thanks. Is there anything I can do to repay you?"
Based on his experience, the next thing to assume is that this girl is the daughter of a wealthy Family, whose family has arranged a marriage for her. The girl is dissatisfied and wants to take the blame by telling her family that she has a boyfriend she likes.
Good.
His original purpose in coming here was to get to know the situation of the various forces in the Eternal Night Hinterlands, so this opportunity couldn't be more perfect.
"Cough..."
The girl, holding up the hem of her skirt, looked a little embarrassed and said, "Aren't you from the Trade Association? The matter is a bit complicated."
"I come from the Tang Lineage in Black Tortoise City. My Family mainly makes a living through business."
One year ago.
"The old man sent the four of us Brother and Sister out, giving each of us 200,000 Eerie Stone, saying that we should use these 200,000 Eerie Stone to contribute to the Family within a year, and the successor would be determined based on the size of the contribution."
"It could be befriending a top-tier power, or it could be opening up a Trade Route."
"Anything is fine; the Elder will evaluate your Contribution Points."
"The one-year deadline has passed, and it wouldn't be right for me to go back empty-handed. It just so happens that I ran into you. You don't even know Black Tortoise City, so you must be a Trade Association from outside the Black Tortoise Plains. If you can come back with me and explain yourselves, I can tell the old man that I used these 200,000 Eerie Stone to bring in a Trade Association from outside the Black Tortoise Plains to investigate our Family."
"When the time comes, just exaggerate how powerful your Trade Association is, then pretend to conduct an inspection, and then say the inspection failed."
"I understand."
Chen Fan nodded, looking at the slightly chubby girl in front of him with a strange expression. "So you've been taking 200,000 Eerie Stone for a year and haven't done anything?"
The Eternal Night Hinterlands has a sense of relaxation that is not found in Coastal Area.
The fighting is fierce and deadly Coastal Area.
This inland area could be a tourist destination for a whole year.
"Hold head high."
The girl tilted her head and said earnestly, "My three older brothers are all more capable than me. They would definitely be better suited as heirs. Grandpa wouldn't really expect me to Achievement anything."
"But it wouldn't be good to go back empty-handed. Bringing back some Achievement would make the old man happy."
"How is it? Is it okay?"
A hint of anticipation and trepidation flashed in the girl's eyes. She stood on tiptoe, interlaced her fingers behind her back, and looked up at Chen Fan.
"Sure."
Chen Fan laughed.
"Great!"
The girl nodded in satisfaction and extended her hand. "From now on, we're friends. My name is Tang Yue."
My Chen Fan.
Chen Fan also extended his hand. He hadn't changed his name, since no one here would know the name Chen Fan. This place was far from the Coastal Area, and even if someone did know, they would just assume it was a coincidence.
After obtaining the pass.
Chen Fan sat in the carriage, drew back the curtains, and looked out the window. Sure enough, they were approaching the City. This special upgrade path was quite interesting; it might not be a Legendary- level Qualitative Transformation leap.
If this were standing in Coastal Area...
This puts them in an invincible position.
The Strange Tide can never get close.
I just don't know if there are any restrictions, such as whether powerful beings like the Greater Wraith can get close, or whether inanimate objects like the "Sky-Piercing Pillar" can get close.
The girl named Tang Yue was sitting inside the carriage at that moment.
He asked with a serious expression.
"We need to compare our strengths first, just in case we're exposed later. What is the true strength of your Trade Association?"
"Forehead..."
After hesitating for a moment, Chen Fan carefully chose his words: "My strength is alright."
19
"Do you have a reserve of a million Eerie Stone?"
"Some."
"Really?" Tang Yue looked up at Chen Fan with a hint of surprise in her eyes. "Your Trade Association is quite impressive. Well, Trade Association of commerce that can conduct business across regions are usually quite powerful. But you'll need to exaggerate even more later, say you have Eerie-Stone Reserves."
"Try speaking now, let me see if your voice has any confidence."
Our Trade Association has Eerie-Stone Reserves.
"Sharp!"
Tang Yue gave Thumbs-Up- up with some admiration. "You seem very confident, it doesn't sound like you're lying at all. Um... it won't take up too much of your time. Can you tell me what kind of business opportunities you're mainly looking for? I can be your local guide."
"Regarding Building Blueprint."
"Oh, let me think about it..."
66
Chen Fan didn't speak again, but just sat in the carriage, looking out the window, his expression gradually becoming dazed.
Millions of Eerie Stone?
The Mortal Domain has Eerie-Stone Reserves in the hundreds of millions for a very long time.
Even though the construction of three lines of defense during this Rainy Season consumed a large amount of the Eerie Stone Eerie-Stone Reserves, there are still several billion Eerie Stone in reserve.
The Mortal Domain is neither Family nor Trade Association.
Rather, it is a comprehensive force similar to the Frontline. Such a force would have a large reserve of Eerie Stone, since each Eerie Stone is equivalent to a cannonball, which is an essential Strategic Resource.
He did not bring the Nine-Five Dragon Chariot with him on this trip.
It's just a regular Horse-Drawn Carriage.
The carriage was a bit crowded with Tang Yue's presence, and the unique fragrance of a young girl emanating from Tang Yue, who was sitting next to him, drifted into his nostrils.
It smells nice.
She was a rather talkative girl, and not very guarded. She chattered on and on about all the places she had been to in the past year, and Chen Fan responded to her words intermittently.
Soon-
The Horse-Drawn Carriage smoothly entered "Black Tortoise City," drove through the bustling city, and after several twists and turns, stopped in front of a large mansion.
"We're here! This is it!"
Tang Yue jumped down from the Horse-Drawn Carriage, then suddenly remembered something and hurriedly ran to her own Horse-Drawn Carriage at the Horse-Drawn Carriage, where she struggled to pull out a large cat, white and yellow all over.
It's either a leopard or a cat.
It's just that it's much larger.
His body seemed boneless, slumped over her shoulders.
It's strange, really.
Tang Yue looked at Chen Fan was getting off the Horse-Drawn Carriage, and asked with some confusion, "Her name is Fat Meow. She's usually always sticking to my side, but when I went to your Horse-Drawn Carriage just now, she didn't follow me."
Chen Fan looked into Tang Yue's Horse-Drawn Carriage.
It consisted mostly of women's belongings, and there was no one else besides the coachman sitting in front of Horse-Drawn Carriage.
It seems...
This Exotic Beast was likely protecting the woman's safety throughout the entire encounter.
It's natural that they didn't dare to follow.
There was a lingering scent of Weiwei in the Horse-Drawn Carriage. Others couldn't smell it, but as a fellow Exotic Beast, Weiwei should be able to. However, Weiwei didn't follow, but stayed in the Canyon with the Flying Boat.
Weiwei is considered strong among the Exotic Beast; it quickly Weiwei that group of monkeys back then.
Especially recently, Weiwei seems to be getting stronger and stronger.
"Exotic Beast?"
Chen Fan said with a smile.
"OK."
Tang Yue patted the Fat Meow's head. "She's a 'Dragon Cat,' a very powerful Exotic Beast. It's said that she has a trace of White Tiger blood in her veins. You should know about White Tiger, right? The White Tiger is one of the four ancient Exotic Beast."
It is said that--
-"
"Long, long ago, there were four Exotic Beasts: the White Tiger, the Azure Dragon, the Vermilion Bird, and the Black Tortoise."
"Later, they gave birth to many Exotic Beasts, Dragon Cat is one of them that has White Tiger blood in its veins."
"And the Black Tortoise Plains was said to have been the territory of Black Tortoise in the past."
"The Black Tortoise and the White Tiger are lovers."
"They had many children, one of whom was a Dragon Cat -like Exotic Beast."
Chen Fan listened silently to Tang Yue's story. He had never heard of these things before and could not verify their authenticity. He just listened, even though he could hardly imagine the scene of the White Tiger and the Black Tortoise mating.
Which of these two is male and which is female?
But legends are things that are passed down from one person to two, from two to three, and from three to all things.
Just then--
The gate of the grand mansion was pushed open, and a rather robust-looking Elderly Man with graying hair walked out in casual clothes. He looked at Tang Yue with a kind smile in his eyes and asked, "Have you had a good year?"
"No way."
Tang Yue's eyes lit up, and she rushed into the Elderly Man's arms, whispering somewhat uncertainly, "I've done something. I found a Trade Association outside the 'Black Tortoise Plains.' This Trade Association is very powerful; it might be able to help our Tang Lineage."
"Oh?"
The Elderly Man chuckled and patted Tang Yue on the back. His gaze then fell on Chen Fan, who was standing beside the Horse-Drawn Carriage, leaning on a Green Robe and dressed in a blue robe. The smile in his eyes slowly faded. He first released Tang Yue, then straightened his own Clothing, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said earnestly.
"I am the Family Head the Tang Lineage of Black Tortoise City. I wonder what kind of distinguished guest this is..."
"Chen Fan, President the Qi Tian Commerce."
"President Chen, please come in!"
He initially thought it was just someone the girl had found to act, and he was happy to join in the fun. But when he saw the man, he immediately knew it wasn't an act. He had met many young people, and this young man was clearly no ordinary person.
The most important point is... composure.
That composure stemmed from an extremely confident aura, revealing a ease born from being accustomed to grand occasions.
This is something that cannot be faked.
After all, their house was enormous and extremely luxuriously decorated. Most young people would feel intimidated upon seeing it; it's an unconscious reaction that's hard to hide.
"President?"
Standing to the side, Tang Yue looked at Chen Fan with some surprise and said, "You're actually the President?"
"Um.
Chen Fan nodded and smiled helplessly. He didn't actually want to use the title of President, but this old man was obviously very knowledgeable. If he made up a lower identity at this time, it would seem like he was deliberately pretending, which would give him away.
The mansion was quite lively.
Many tables were set up for a feast, with a dozen or so servants carrying plates moving back and forth among them.
They arrived at just the right time.
The banquet is about to begin.
Before the meal began.
The patriarch of the Tang Lineage stepped forward and spoke, looking at everyone present with a smile, "A year ago, I sent out the four Brother and Sister of the Tang Lineage, Tang Yue and her brother, each carrying 200,000 Eerie Stone, to seek opportunities for the Tang Lineage. Now the time limit has come."
All four Brother and Sister have returned safely.
"All members of the Tang Lineage have gathered here, and all the Elder are present. Today, let the Elder judge who has made the greatest contribution. The one who has made the greatest contribution will become the heir of the Tang Lineage and shoulder the important responsibility of strengthening the Tang Lineage."
Applause erupted from the audience.
Chen Fan sat at the main table, looking at Tang Yue's three older brothers, clapping along with everyone else. He was a little surprised; this was his first time attending such a large Family gathering, and there were quite a few people there.
Tang Yue and her three Brother and Sister are clearly the main branch of the family.
Even the branch families were convinced by this method of selecting a successor.
After all, the branch also hopes to have a powerful enough successor to lead the Tang Lineage to continue its prosperity.
The Crippled Monkey sat to the side, somewhat wistful. There were similar gatherings back in the North River Chen Family, but the Young Master was in the Firewood Shed then. He was there too, and he had invited the Young Master, but the Young Master refused to go.
"I'll go first."
A somewhat weathered Middle-Aged Man stood up, looked at the group of Tang Lineage members, and said in a deep voice, "As the eldest son of the Tang Lineage, I have traveled all over the Black Tortoise Plains this past year with 200,000 Eerie Stone, and even encountered my younger sister once during that time."
"I've found... a clue about the White Tiger."
The words had barely left his mouth.
The Courtyard fell silent instantly, and a look of bewilderment appeared on everyone's face. The White Tiger and the Black Tortoise were in love and once lived on the Black Tortoise Plains. Was this a legend, or were there multiple versions of the legend?
What does it mean to actually find clues about the White Tiger on the Black Tortoise Plains?
One of the four ancient mythical Exotic Beast, the White Tiger?
The man, who was clearly close to forty, said in a deep voice, "That was a small town on the edge of the 'Black Tortoise Plains.' When I passed by a Brothel, I saw a beautiful girl sitting at the entrance, with many stray cats gathered at her feet."
A burst of laughter couldn't help but escape from the crowd.
So it was the White Tiger.
200,000 Eerie Stone, the price is too high.
"Tang Zong."
The old man on the stage was also losing face, his expression instantly darkening. "You'd better explain this so-called White Tiger clue to me clearly."
Today we have distinguished guests visiting; how can he possibly save face after such an incident?
They've made a fool of themselves in public.
"Yes."
Tang Zong's face remained largely expressionless. He continued, looking at the crowd, "She was a girl with a ponytail, very pure. Sitting at the entrance of the Brothel, she was like a lotus flower in a swamp, untainted by the mud."
I couldn't help but step forward to speak.
"I learned that she was a waitress in this Brothel, and that the stray cats all liked her. She said it was because she often fed the stray cats the leftover food from the customers, but I could tell that wasn't the case."
"Later..."
"I didn't go anywhere else, I stayed in this City, and I got to know her better and better. Gradually, I learned a shocking secret: they don't usually live in the city, but in a Cave in the mountains outside the city, even during the Rainy Season. You all should understand what that means now."
"And in that Cave, I found a whisker."
Tang Zong pulled out a white cat whisker about three feet long from his pocket, walked to Tang Yue's side, and the fat cat that had been lying at Tang Yue's feet immediately bristled upon sensing the whisker's scent, then trembled and crawled under Tang Yue's stool.
Seeing this.
Tang Zong laughed, "I think this beard is worth 200,000 Eerie Stone, isn't it?"
"This whisker is very likely the whisker of the White Tiger, one of the four ancient mythical Exotic Beast."
A moment of silence fell, except this time with the addition of several rapid breaths.
The Exotic Beast beside Tang Yue was Dragon Cat.
Their strength is extremely formidable.
Everyone knows this, and some can even hold their own against the Wraith King.
A single whisker was enough to subdue the Dragon Cat, so the owner of that whisker must be no ordinary person; it might even be a clue to the White Tiger.
Old Master Tang Lineage glanced at Chen Fan sitting at the main table, his scalp tingling slightly. He saw curiosity in Chen Fan's eyes. This time, he hadn't embarrassed himself in front of the distinguished guest, but...
However, he revealed a major secret of the Tang Lineage to the distinguished guest.
This was originally a secret belonging exclusively to the Tang Lineage, but now it might be leaked.
At this time...
Tang Zong spoke again, "I've searched that Cave thoroughly; there's nothing else there except this whisker. And after I took this whisker, that Cave will no longer be able to expel the Strange Entities in the Eternal Night."
"Even if this whisker isn't from the White Tiger, it's still a priceless Heavenly Materials and Earthly Treasures."
"As well as..."
He pulled up the girl with a ponytail sitting next to him. "Over the past year, we've developed feelings for each other, and this time I'm bringing her home, wanting to marry her."
"Sure, sure."
The old man of the Tang Lineage laughed again. It seemed there would be no further developments, so he wasn't worried about anything being leaked. Besides, his eldest son had been unmarried for a long time, which had been a headache for him. He hadn't expected that this trip would resolve the issue. It was a double blessing.
"Elder, please provide your feedback."
Soon.
After discussion, the Elder gave a score based on Tang Zong's contributions.
79 points.
The next to stand up was the second son of the Tang Lineage, a pale-faced man who looked somewhat like a playboy. He swayed as he got up and said, "Father, I've established contact with a cultivation sect called 'Ancient Cloud Sect' this past year. They promised that our Tang Lineage can send three disciples to the sect for cultivation every year."
"Not bad, not bad."
The old master of the Tang Lineage looked at his second son, who was usually indulging in eating, drinking and having fun, with a face full of satisfaction. He had grown up. The Ancient Cloud Sect was the most powerful cultivation sect in the Black Tortoise Plains. It was really good to be able to establish a connection with such a sect.
"Elder, please provide your feedback."
"47 points."
Next came the three sons of the Tang Lineage.
After standing up, the younger man looked down at his toes and stammered, "Father... I... didn't find any opportunities this year... but... I didn't dare spend my Eerie Stone... I brought back all 200,000 Eerie Stone."
"It's alright, it's fine."
The old man of the Tang Lineage offered a helpless consolation. "Compared to my second son, who indulges in eating, drinking, and having fun every day, my third son is the complete opposite. He dares not do anything; the only thing he can do is guard the money."
A year has passed, and the 200,000 Eerie Stone remain untouched.
That's definitely economical.
Throughout the entire Black Tortoise Plains, you won't find a single person as frugal as their large Family.
"Elder, please provide your feedback."
"18 points."
Immediately afterwards-
All eyes were on Tang Yue, and Tang Yue Chen Fan sitting next to her.
"Cough."
Tang Yue stood up, cleared her throat, and then solemnly introduced, "Let me introduce you all. This gentleman next to me is the President of the 'Qi Tian Commerce.' They are very powerful and come from outside the Black Tortoise Plains. They came to our Tang Lineage for an inspection after my introduction. If a deal is struck, it could be a big transaction."
How big is it?
The words had barely left his mouth.
A voice rang out from the crowd, tinged with laughter. "Is Tang Yue just someone you randomly picked to put on an act? With your abilities, Tang Yue, what kind of major Trade Association could you possibly get in touch with?"
Everyone turned to look.
A middle-aged woman adorned with jewels, followed by two servants, walked from the front yard and stopped between the tables, looking at the Tang Lineage patriarch. "The Tang Lineage is hosting a banquet, but they didn't invite me. What do you mean by that? Aren't I Tang Lineage?"
"Mess!"
The old master of the Tang Lineage said with a grim expression, "We have distinguished guests at our door. This is not the time for you to cause trouble. Get out!"
Every family has its own problems.
The Tang Lineage appears glamorous on the surface, but there are some unknown things going on behind the scenes.
This woman is indeed Tang Lineage.
She was his brother's wife.
In earlier years.
During the rise of the Family, his brother sacrificed himself for the Tang Lineage. After that, he took over his brother's position and became the Family Head the Tang Lineage. The Tang Lineage gradually grew stronger. Only this woman was always resentful, believing that if her husband hadn't died, the Tang Lineage would now belong to her Tang Lineage.
I often argue with him over trivial matters.
He can understand.
But... with such distinguished guests present today, it's really not appropriate to cause such a scene.
Tang Yue took a deep breath and met the middle-aged woman's gaze head-on. "His Trade Association has Eerie-Stone Reserves, no, fifty million Eerie-Stone Reserves. Tell me, is that considered large?"
"Big."
The middle-aged woman standing between the tables wore a necklace with flawless, perfectly round beads and a jadeite bracelet with exceptional translucency. Her entire outfit exuded wealth, and her slightly downturned lips held a hint of mockery as she looked at Tang Yue.
"Of course it's big. Trade Association with Eerie-Stone Reserves would definitely be considered a large Trade Association anywhere."
"Exactly."
She held up a pale white Pebble in her hand. "I happen to have a 'Truth-Seeking Stone' here, which I obtained from the 'Eternal Night Hall.' If you hold this stone in your hand, there will be no reaction if you tell the truth, but it will emit a red light if you tell a lie."
"Would you dare let the guy next to you try it?"
The words had barely left his mouth.
The scene fell silent instantly, and everyone's eyes were fixed on Chen Fan.
Actually...
Everyone knows that this person was probably brought back by Tang Yue to act. After all, Tang Yue has no intention of competing for the heir. Of the four Brother and Sister, only Tang Zong is capable of taking responsibility; the others are unlikely to amount to anything.
Tang Yue is a woman who doesn't care about power, so how could she possibly put her heart into doing this?
I just brought someone back to cheer up the old man.
But now they're stuck here.
If Tang Yue were to be exposed for lying in public, she might lose face in the future.
"You... you!"
Tang Yue's eyes were a little red, and her tone carried a hint of anger. "I didn't do anything to you, why are you targeting me?"
The Dragon Cat that had been lying at his feet sensed its owner's emotions, its fur slightly ruffled, its body arched, and it growled softly.
I'm not targeting you personally.
The wealthy woman brandished the Pebble in her hand. "I was merely verifying its authenticity. Could it be that the Tang Lineage head's successor selection is just a farce?"
"Are all these Elder here to play house?"
"Enough!"
The Tang Lineage patriarch, feeling somewhat humiliated, retorted angrily, "The Tang Lineage has never mistreated you over the years. All those jewels you wear, weren't they all bought for you by the Tang Lineage? Whatever you wanted to buy, the Tang Lineage never shortchanged you!"
"With such an important guest present, what are you trying to do!"
"That's what I deserve." The woman turned her head to look at the Tang Lineage patriarch without any fear. "If my man hadn't died, it would be him standing there now, not you!"
77
"In short."
"Do you dare to test it?"
"If you're not willing to test, then get lost!"
"The Tang Lineage doesn't welcome any scoundrels or oddballs trying to freeload! If you really can't afford it, I'll have the kitchen pack it up for you to take home."
"You're asking for it!"
The monkey sitting to the side finally couldn't take it anymore. Its face darkened, and it slammed its fist on the table, shouting, "Say one more word, and I'll tear your mouth apart!"
"Yo."
The woman turned to the Crippled Monkey and laughed, "So, do you dare to take the test or not?"
"Give it to me."
Chen Fan, who hadn't gotten up from beginning to end, waved his hand calmly.
Upon hearing this, the monkey, his face darkening, strode over to the woman, took the Pebble from her hand, and returned to the table to hand it to Chen Fan.
Chen Fan examined the stone in his hand, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Intriguing," he thought, "Can it determine authenticity?"
I don't know where it came from.
I'll see if I can bring a batch back with me on my way back.
"You..."
Tang Yue, somewhat flustered, leaned close to Chen Fan's ear and whispered urgently, "You don't need to take the test. Just get angry and say you've been insulted, then leave immediately. I'll handle the rest."
"Need not."
Chen Fan laughed and held the Pebble in his palm, "My Trade Association possesses Eerie-Stone Reserves."
The next moment, a burst of red light shone forth.
The Pebble in his hand suddenly turned blood red, and several blood- Red Grade rays of light shot out from between his fingers.
If it turns red, it's fake.
Everyone in the Courtyard froze in place.
What's going on?
The Tang Lineage patriarch took a deep breath, his eyes closed, and stood there considering how to end this. "Brother, you seem so confident and composed, but why are you emitting red light?"
"It's over."
Tang Yue murmured in despair, covering her face with her hands, too ashamed to look up. She could almost feel the mocking gazes of countless clansmen upon her. Her confident refusal to use the words earlier had given her a glimmer of hope.
"Ha ha ha ha!"
The middle-aged woman in the crowd was also stunned, and after a long while, she couldn't help but burst into laughter. "Why don't you try forty million? Maybe your Trade Association just spent ten million."
"Is that not allowed?"
Chen Fan pursed his lips, weighed the Pebble in his hand, and remarked on the attention to detail of the "Truth-Seeking Stone." He then held the Pebble in his hand again and said softly, "My faction possesses fifty million Eerie Stone."
This time.
The Pebble returned to calm and no longer displayed a red glow.
The scene suddenly fell silent. The woman's laughter stopped abruptly, and she looked at the Pebble in Chen Fan's hand with disbelief.
"Look?"
Chen Fan smiled and turned to look at Tang Yue: "I told you there wouldn't be a problem, just don't brag about me next time. Didn't we agree on ten million Eerie Stone at first? How did it suddenly increase to fifty million Eerie Stone?"
"Take him away."
The Tang Lineage patriarch reacted immediately, his face grim as he gave the order. Two servants dragged the middle-aged woman away, and she did not resist. She just stared blankly at the dull Pebble, looking somewhat incredulous.
How is that possible... There really are fifty million Eerie Stone? That would be an incredibly powerful force.
Then.
Old Master Tang Lineage strode up to Chen Fan, bowed respectfully, and said with a wry smile, "President Chen, every family has its own troubles. I apologize for the poor hospitality; I am truly indebted to you."
He had already figured it out; the identity of the chamber of the Trade Association President was fake.
But it's true that he has his own power base.
This is a formidable force... a power with Eerie-Stone Reserves should not be underestimated.
The Eerie-Stone Reserves is cash.
If we're talking about people with a total of 50 million coins, we can find seven or eight in the Black Tortoise Plains. But if we're talking about people with 50 million coins in cash, that's really hard to find. Having that much cash means the family fortune must be even greater.
"It's alright."
Chen Fan casually tucked the Pebble into his pocket, stood up, and said with a smile, "Your family's scripture is actually quite easy to read."
"Don't worry about me, you guys continue."
"Alright, we'll talk again later." The Tang Lineage patriarch took a deep breath and continued, "Elder, please give your scores."
The Elder exchanged glances, discussed for a moment, and then gave a score.
"78 points".
It received a score one point lower than Tang Zong.
This is a fair rating, considering that it is true that a powerful force has been befriended, but it is not yet certain what profits can be obtained from this force, so the Contribution Points is unlikely to be too high.
But it can't be too low either, after all, the distinguished guest is here, and if it's too low, the distinguished guest will lose face.
Finally, it received a score of 78, one point lower than Tang Zong's 79.
Amid cheers from the crowd.
Tang Zong was officially designated as the heir of the Tang Lineage, which was not surprising at all. There was no atmosphere of competition for the heir in the Tang Lineage, and the other two sons, including Tang Yue, were applauding.
A Family can only have one successful member.
From a certain perspective, this is a good thing.
At least there won't be internal strife.
After all, others know very well what kind of person you are.
After the Banquet.
Chen Fan and Tang Yue walked in the backyard, while Qi Yue and the Crippled Monkey followed behind him.
Thank you this time.
Tang Yue said somewhat embarrassedly in a low voice, "It's okay that I've revealed your identity, right?"
She's not stupid.
She naturally knew that Chen Fan had lied about being the "chamber of the Trade Association President" because he had a special mission, and he had exposed his identity this time in order to support her.
"It's alright."
Chen Fan leaned on his Jadeite Staff, gazing at the artificial hills in the ponds beside him, pondering that he should also create something similar for the Mortal Domain; they certainly looked pleasing to the eye. "Actually, it didn't reveal anything."
Tang Yue gritted her teeth slightly. "Since we're friends, and you've helped me so much, it's definitely not enough for me to only give you a Passage Token. When my Big Brother reported back, he said he met me in a small town on the outskirts."
"Do you want to know why my Big Brother was able to see me in that City?"
"Oh, why?"
"Because I found Fat Meow there a few years ago. That's Fat Meow's hometown, and I took Fat Meow back there to play."
"Then..."
Tang Yue gradually drifted into her memories. "I was wandering around alone at the time, and near that City, I accidentally entered a Ruins, which seemed to be a heritage Ruins. After entering the Ruins, I was in a daze and have forgotten what happened."
"I only remember that when I came out, I was holding a baby Dragon Cat, also known as Fatty Fat Meow, in my arms. Fat Meow's eyes were not yet open, and it looked like it had just been born. It was all wet."
He was also carrying a Building Blueprint.
"It's Blue Grade."
"This happened six or seven years ago. This Building Blueprint has been kept in the 'Tang Lineage Treasure Pavilion' for a long time. The Tang Lineage Builder have never been able to figure it out, and recently the old man has been preparing to sell it."
"Didn't you say your main purpose for coming here was to see the Building Blueprint?"
"Why don't you see if you need it?"
"If you need it, I'll ask the old man to sell it to you at a lower price."
"Oh?"
Chen Fan narrowed his eyes slightly, looking at the Dragon Cat that had been following Tang Yue and the so-called White Tiger whisker. A possibility flashed through his mind: No way... if it really is that, then we've really struck gold this time.
"Okay, let me see."
"You wait here."
Tang Yue led Chen Fan to a pavilion. After glancing around, she sneaked inside. Soon, Tang Yue came running out, holding a Building Blueprint, and handed it to Chen Fan: "This is it. See if you need it. Just take a look at the outline of the building on the Blueprint. It should be Defensive Structure."
59
Chen Fan stared at the thin, Azure blue Blueprint in his hand, remaining silent and expressionless.
"Name of the Exotic Treasure": White Tiger Cannon.
"Exotic Treasure Effect": Blue Grade.
"Exotic Treasure Grade": Building Blueprint, Defensive Structure.
He never actively sought to collect the Four Divine Cannons, because it was simply a pipe dream. The power of the Mortal Domain was not yet great enough to acquire such a thing across the entire Eternal Night Continent.
He hadn't really thought about it.
Let nature take its course.
But...
At this moment, the "White Tiger Cannon," one of the Four Divine Cannons, appeared lightly in his hand.
Black Tortoise Cannon, White Tiger Cannon.
He already has two of the Four Divine Cannons, if he can secure this Blueprint.
We must win!
If it can be bought with Eerie Stone, that's no big deal. If it can't be bought with Eerie Stone, then we might have to resort to other means. In short, he's definitely going to get this Blueprint.
"Call..."
He took a deep breath before calling out, "Old Master Tang Lineage, come out and let's discuss the price."
The next moment.
The old master of the Tang Lineage emerged from the attic, and said with some admiration, "Impressive. I thought I had some martial arts skills, but I didn't expect to be so insignificant in front of President Chen."
Chen Fan smiled but didn't say anything.
He naturally couldn't detect it, Qi Yue told him.
"Father!"
Tang Yue was somewhat incredulous. "You've been following us? I thought the gatekeeper just happened to be at the banquet in front today."
"It's not a matter of stalking."
The old man of the Tang Lineage said helplessly, "I only came after you broke into the Treasure Pavilion and triggered the Grand Array. I had to come and take a look, right? It wasn't easy for me to accumulate this family fortune..."
Then he looked at Chen Fan with a serious expression.
"President Chen."
"I won't beat around the bush. This Building Blueprint is the only Blue-Grade Building Blueprint in the 'Tang Lineage.' President Chen, you should know the price of Blue-Grade Building Blueprint. It's no exaggeration to say it's priceless."
"Our Tang Lineage's Builder spent seven years trying to figure it out, which shows that our Tang Lineage's Builder have limited abilities."
"But if this Building Blueprint were sold elsewhere, it wouldn't be cheap."
"Selling six or seven million Eerie Stone is quite easy. If you go to some rich places and happen to meet someone who likes you, it's not impossible to get ten million Eerie Stone or even more."
"But one" 6
"Since you're friends with my daughter, I won't ask you for the Eerie Stone. There's something else..."
He was interrupted before he could finish speaking.
"Twenty million Eerie Stone."
Chen Fan held up his index and middle fingers, making a "two": "Patriarch Tang Lineage, just say the word, and I'll take the blueprints with me, plus twenty million Eerie Stone in cash, paid on the spot."
The Tang Lineage patriarch noticed the Storage Ring on Chen Fan's hand, and his pupils contracted slightly.
Twenty million Eerie Stone...
This price effectively shut down anything he was about to say. In reality, Blue-Grade Building Blueprint were indeed worth the price he quoted, but very few people could afford them, so they were essentially unsellable and difficult to sell.
After all, let's not even talk about them.
Even for the Celestial Architect on the Frontline, it takes a long time to comprehend a Blue-Grade Building Blueprint.
It's not so easy to understand.
So he didn't really intend to sell it for that price; he just hoped to exchange it for some benefit from other sources. But the price of 20 million Eerie Stone left him somewhat stunned.
"Twenty million, no haggling, cash on delivery."
Chen Fan emphasized it again.
He wasn't unaware of what the Tang Lineage patriarch meant, but things could change in the meantime. Now that the Blueprint was in his hands, he didn't want to hand it over or do anything for the Tang Lineage.
Just pay up; it's simpler than anything else.
It's convenient too.
"Okay then."
The words had barely left his mouth.
Tens of thousands of High-Grade Eerie Stone suddenly appeared out of thin air and then fell to the ground.
"Please click."
Chen Fan grinned and immediately stuffed the Blueprint for the "White Tiger Cannon" into his pocket. He was already considering whether or not to return home; his plan was to stay for about six months.
But...
With this unexpected gain, he felt it was time to return home.
The old master of the Tang Lineage stared at the tens of thousands of High-Grade Eerie Stones on the ground, frozen in place. His throat bobbed slightly, and a look of horror flashed in his eyes. He was now certain of one thing: the power behind President Chen was definitely not limited to only fifty million Eerie Stone.
I want more.
What kind of person could carry 20 million Eerie Stone with them?
Could he be a rich kid from the Frontline?
"That..."
After a long pause, the Tang Lineage patriarch finally reacted, his voice slightly hoarse as he said, "President Chen, do you need any other Blue Grade Blueprint? I know of a faction that has been studying them for a long time without success and is also preparing to sell them."
"If you need it, I can help you acquire it."
"But I hope President Chen won't spread too much news about it. I can buy it back at a lower price."
The more the better.
Chen Fan laughed, "For every Blue Grade Blueprint, I'll give you 10 million Eerie Stone. No matter how many Eerie Stone you acquired it for, I'll give you 10 million Eerie Stone."
"You can bring over some Yellow Grade, Green Grade, and White Grade items so I can take a look."
"If I need it, I can take it all."
"If there's a higher level available, I can give you... a hundred million, or even more."
"Higher level?"
The old master of the Tang Lineage was slightly taken aback at first, then smiled wryly and said, "There shouldn't be any higher grades than Blue Grade. At least, I've never even heard of one, let alone seen one."
"Maybe."
Chen Fan smiled and said that he didn't have any expectations. He was already content, and the rest were all unexpected surprises.
Chen Fan did not stay at the Tang Lineage for long. After saying goodbye to Tang Yue and the Family Head the Tang Lineage family, he found an Inn in Black Tortoise City to stay in. He planned to take the Blueprint back with him after he acquired a batch of Building Blueprint from the head of the Tang Lineage Family Head.
"White Tiger Cannon."
Inside the Inn, Chen Fan took out the Building Blueprint for the White Tiger Cannon from his pocket, tore it up on the spot, and soon saw the White Tiger Cannon option in the list of buildings that could be built.
I'm itching to head back as soon as possible.
Let's build a White Tiger Cannon in the Mortal Domain and see what happens.
Assumption -
If his guess is correct, Four Divine Cannons have a rule-based ability, or rather, a rather abnormal effect. The Black Tortoise Cannon provides the Heavenly Dao Cannon with the ability to hit the target with absolute accuracy, White Tiger Cannon should also provide a rule-based ability.
The Black Tortoise represents persistence, so it will not rest until its target is killed.
And the White Tiger...
It often signifies violence and conquest.
"This trip was definitely worthwhile."
He sat on the edge of the bed, poured himself a cup of hot tea, and looked out the window with a smile in his eyes.
It is Winter Season.
Hot tea soothes the stomach and is very comforting to drink.
Suddenly, light snow began to fall from the sky, landing on the rooftops of the entire City. The City looked as if it had stepped out of a painting, blending seamlessly with the sky and Heaven and Earth.
The Crippled Monkey was also very happy, sitting opposite and chuckling foolishly.
Although he didn't know exactly what the Building Blueprint was, he could tell that the Young Master was very happy.
The Young Master is happy.
He was happy too.
Qi Yue looked out the window with a pang of heartache. Actually... he could have sent Shao Qiu instead. He believed that Shao Qiu could have stolen the Blueprint without anyone noticing, thus saving 20 million Eerie Stone.
That's no small sum; it pains him to see it.
P. S.: This chapter is half an extra chapter, an extra chapter for the patron "Lost Forest River". Thank you for your support, boss.