"A peerless genius?"
Hearing Gu Chenfeng's answer, even with the old man's composure, he could not help twitching the corner of his mouth and discreetly rubbing his hands.
"Very well. Judging by the extraordinary talent you have displayed, young friend, perhaps that is the only explanation."
With that, a half-smile appeared on the old man's face again.
"Young friend, you have so generously given me spirit medicines to sustain the life of a wretched old man at death's door.
Presumably... you want information about more Profound Apertures?"
Gu Chenfeng did not deny it. He rose and cupped his fists.
"I do indeed wish to open more Profound Apertures. Would you be willing to tell me, Senior?"
The old man did not answer directly. "Young friend, do you know how much my Secret Method for opening Profound Apertures is worth?"
Gu Chenfeng replied, "My knowledge is shallow, but judging by how wondrous this method is, calling it a priceless treasure would be no exaggeration."
"Heh heh... indeed. Since this method is a priceless treasure, what can you offer me in exchange for it?"
The old man regarded Gu Chenfeng with a teasing gaze.
Gu Chenfeng pondered briefly, then said earnestly, "Life! I will exchange your life for it, Senior!"
"My life?" The old man froze slightly.
Gu Chenfeng said, "No matter how heaven-defying a Secret Method is, it is worthless once you lose your life.
If you teach me this method, Senior, I will be able to continue climbing Five-Thunder Divine Mountain.
The higher one climbs on Five-Thunder Divine Mountain, the rarer and more wondrous its Heavenly Treasures become. Among them are precious medicines capable of extending one's lifespan.
As long as you teach me the Secret Method for opening Profound Apertures, I can use it to refine more Lightning Essence.