Lately, Li Chen had been busy taking over the Market District, modifying puppets, and relocating the Shaman Folk. He truly had not found time to check on Qi Maigu.
Qi Maigu knew he was busy and had not disturbed him, instead secluding himself to pursue his own research.
As a Puppet Master of Master Artisan rank, he had his own Dao Path and career. He had little interest in serving others, and even if he did, they would have to be truly exceptional figures or powers.
He and Li Chen had always maintained an equal and friendly relationship. As fellow cultivators, they exchanged ideas and learned from each other, without any employer-retainer ties or other complicated interests involved.
Funding research and conducting experiments, however, were common forms of cooperation between Puppet Masters.
Through such arrangements, Li Chen could temporarily hire Qi Maigu to work for him, while Qi Maigu could exchange his knowledge for money and cultivation provisions, gaining opportunities to advance.
Ordinarily, his sect supported him and met his every need, leaving no chance for Li Chen to play the patron.
At present, however, he was leading a team on a training expedition, sent out to seek his own opportunities for a breakthrough. Any gains he made, however small, would belong to him.
Upon hearing this, he indeed looked interested.
Qi Maigu rubbed the stubble he had not shaved for days and mused, "To be honest, this thing is somewhat sensitive. After all, it is a Grand Artisan-level creation worthy of a five-star rating, with tremendous destructive power..."
"But if you really can afford the price, why shouldn't I make it for you?"
"The Heavenly Dragon Gate isn't any respectable sect, anyway, and the Centipede Daoist hardly seems to have any status or backing. Even if he knows I'm