Was Steward Zhang's offer low? Not really. It matched the market price—but that was the market price from two months ago.
With the Grand Exam approaching, variant beast materials such as Witch Toad skin, which could keep martial artists from getting injured during breakthroughs, would fetch at least another three hundred taels.
The merchant association's offer did smack of looting a burning house, but they had not gone too far. They had judged the heat just right.
Zhao Er could sell to the merchant association at a low price, or take the risk of negotiating with other factions. But anyone who was not a fool would generally choose to sell to the merchant association.
It really did fit the saying: a willing buyer and a willing seller.
"Heh... the merchant association has so many mouths to feed. It isn't easy for us either. Please forgive us, Master Zhao."
Steward Zhang did not get angry at Zhao Er's faintly mocking words. Instead, he cupped his hands and smiled.
"Thirteen hundred taels. It's yours!"
Seeing this, Zhao Er did not hesitate. He nodded and accepted the price.
"A pleasure doing business with you, Master Zhao. Here are your silver notes. If you ever wish to sell the Yuchan Toad Toxin or essence blood, you can come find me at the merchant association anytime."
Steward Zhang was not remotely surprised by Zhao Er's agreement. He immediately counted out the silver notes from his pocket and handed them over. Naturally, he had not forgotten the toxin and essence blood.
With the deal concluded, Steward Zhang departed in the carriage, all smiles, taking the still somewhat stunned Zhao Cai with him.
The carriage traveled a long way, until it had left the northern district. Steward Zhang, who had kept his eyes closed ever since boarding,