In truth, Shrek Academy itself had no interest whatsoever in the Blacksmith Association at present. After all, blacksmithing fell far short of being a soul master. And Xuan Zi was currently enjoying devouring people far too much to prepare for conquering the world, so he had no intention of trying to control Gengxin City.
Taking over the Blacksmith Association was entirely Zhou Shu's own idea. He intended to rake in some extra money from it. After all, the Blacksmith Association took a hefty cut from transactions involving rare metals and soul engineer products, so its income in Gengxin City was quite substantial.
"Somewhat interesting, but you still haven't succeeded." Huo Yuhao shook his head. "Your way of doing things is far too slow. The academy can't wait that long."
"Yes, yes, of course!" Zhou Shu stood up, nodding and bowing, sweat on the verge of dripping from his forehead. "You're quite right to reprimand me. But with the two of you here, subduing the entire Blacksmith Association, or even Gengxin City, through sheer strength will be as natural as water flowing into a channel."
"This is merely a matter of chicken feathers and garlic skins. Compared with the great undertaking ahead of us, it's no more than an irritating patch of scabies." Huo Yuhao waved his hand with a chuckle.
"Oh?" Zhou Shu immediately became interested. "What great undertaking does the academy have planned for Gengxin City? Is there anything this humble subordinate can help with?"
"You're the local host, so naturally we'll need your help." Huo Yuhao nodded. "The world today is battered by wind and rain. Countries are constantly at war, and the common people are displaced, with nine homes out of ten standing empty. Most men capable of wielding a blade or shooting a bow have been