A Long Grind to Daoist Monarch

Chapter 425 - 257: Silent When Watching the Sword, No Umbrella on a Rainy Night (Part 2)

Let the other tradesmen who were holding a wait-and-see attitude marvel at He Lichang’s quick and decisive actions, abandoning thoughts of competing with him.

"Though the County City is good, it is not my hometown. This place is bustling and prosperous, but for me, it is too noisy, and after staying for a long time, mishaps are inevitable."

Bai Qi shook his head. He certainly wished to live in a grand residence, surrounded by dozens of beautiful maids, carefully serving him, and lead a life of luxury where clothes are handed to him and meals are served.

Especially since the houses in the County City are situated in such a way that they truly nurture a person!

But as the saying goes, it is better to be a head of a chicken than a tail of a phoenix.

Nesting in Black River County may be slightly less enjoyable, but it prevails in stability.

With his master Ninghai Zen, and Doorman Uncle Lao Dao holding fort, even going out for leisure strolls is filled with a sense of security.

Yihai Prefecture, however, is a place where hidden talents abound and the waters run deep. Aside from Master Chen Xing, Four Cultivation Grandmasters, and Fourth Realm Daoist Officials, one can easily gather enough to form a pair of hands.

Moreover, the blood feud and debt suppressed by the plaque of Tongwen Hall constantly strains one’s nerves, making it hard to describe as enjoyable.

"Brother Bai has made his decision, I won’t force him. Let us drink a cup together, as a farewell."

He Jingfeng’s disappointment was evident, who wouldn’t want to cling to a strong and influential person? The name of Bai Qilang resonates loudly within Yihai Prefecture; Daoist Official’s Office, Pai Bang Leader, Martial Arts Hundred Platforms, and even Meridian Sword Sect, each willing to give face.

In stark contrast to his master Ninghai Zen’s notorious reputation, with cries for his downfall, hated by both deities and demons, feared at mere mention.

Bai Qilang walks a clearly different path.

Emphasizing a vast network, broad pathways, and many connections.

Should Bai Qi reside in Yihai Prefecture for long, the He family is bound to reap substantial benefits.

"Be cautious with Fenghui Trading Company’s endeavors, Brother Jingfeng, it’s best to persuade your esteemed father not to get involved. Lu Zhongping is deep in prison, with no chance of a comeback, but the backing behind the Lu family isn’t necessarily toppled.

In just a few short years, Lu Zhongping managed to open both water and land routes within the Six Commanderies of Celestial Water; it’s possible someone secretly supported and exerted strength.

Other shops that the He family takes over can be consumed thoroughly, no problem.

This major business with significant connections, like Fenghui Trading Company, is akin to a hot potato; if possible, avoid it."

Bai Qi casually reminded, often what appears to be a delectable feast hides sharp spikes that can choke.

Lu Zhongping has been imprisoned for several days now, yet the other industry leaders show no interest, clearly indicating the underlying issues.

Furthermore, last time he was with Master at Pai Bang Headquarters, he heard a fleeting mention from Chen Xing that Fenghui Trading Company’s background is not simple.

"The true owner of Fenghui Trading Company is someone else."

Bowing his head indulging in food and drink, Xu Zirong casually wiped his mouth:

"The Female Wealth Deity from Celestial Water Prefecture, Zhu Mingyu. Only she could swiftly open water and land connections across the six commanderies; she was the earliest to do escort and cargo transport business, all escorted by military personnel of Zhechong Prefecture.

The brigands of Fulong Mountain, despite being rampant like weeds, could never be fully eradicated, yet no one dared to have the courage to rob Fenghui Trading Company... seemingly except the Red Eyebrow Leader and Heaven-defying Saber ten years ago.

But you all know what his fate turned out to be."

He Jingfeng’s heart froze, feeling fortunate he did not act recklessly.

If by chance they provoked the Female Wealth Deity, offended Grand General Zhao of Celestial Water Prefecture.

The He family might one day be framed with the charge of colluding with a cult and face extermination.

Especially "White Sun Sect remnants," these five words are extremely convenient.

At the initial establishment of Dragon Court, the seven major Upper Sects and five Upper Sects held dominance, exerting pressure over each prefecture.

Those Daoist Officials granted the seals of authority, upon appointment, had to personally deliver their posts and worship at the Mountain Gates.

Should there be any breach of etiquette, or failure to recognize the current situation, angering the true disciples of Grand Elders.

They often did not last long before being assassinated by the White Sun Sect remnants.

Let alone, during the annual capital inspection exam, concerning the distribution of spiritual energies and the production within Grotto Heaven Blessed Lands, inevitably leading to continuous White Sun Sect remnants uprisings.

This is why, no matter how the Four Reversals Demon Sect stirs trouble, it can never surpass the influence of the White Sun Sect.

"Brother Bai, Brother Zirong, such words are indeed a wake-up call for a dreamer! I will immediately discuss with my father, and abandon taking over Fenghui Trading Company."

He Jingfeng felt lingering fear, quickly filled his wine cup, drank it up, hoping to suppress the dread.

"Brother Jingfeng is soon to enter the Daoist School, and after becoming a Daoist Official with authority, do not forget us."

Bai Qi hinted, changing the topic, He Jingfeng and He Lichang are wise men, not easily blinded by immediate benefits.

"Also, it is thanks to Brother Bai."

He Jingfeng drank another cup, with a bitter smile:

"Managing the household is truly exhausting, I never imagined that one day it would be my turn to take charge and make decisions."

This Seventh Young Master of the elder house had gained a calm and capable demeanor, yet lost a bit of his past flamboyance and exuberance.

"The shoulders of the young carry the bloom of life’s spring, but alas, flowers may bloom again, while youth does not return.

Brother Jingfeng, Brother Zirong, may we all achieve our desires and everything go as wished."

Bai Qi raised his cup with both hands and drank heartily.

The atmosphere seemed fervent, as Xu Zirong, stirred by the drinking, called out for "bigger bowls."

After a full hour of battle, the private room was full of overturned wine jars.

The richest man’s son in Weinan Prefecture, the top local rich man, Xu Zirong, hugged an empty jar, muttering:

"Drink more... "

Meanwhile, He Jingfeng, long unable to handle his liquor, was sprawled beneath the table, like having a sweet dream, murmuring about his two brothers who met with misfortune.

"No wonder they say alcohol can dispel sorrow. When one’s heart is burdened, weighed down by matters, although wine cannot truly dispel sorrows, it can help one forget."

Bai Qi swallowed the last mouthful, exhaling rich alcohol vapor, his eyes still clear.

He did not use his Qi and blood power to resolve it; it was just that his natural physical disposition was robust, as if a large pond, where pouring in some strong liquor had little effect.

"A man of wealth and a man of grandeur, each with their troubles. While I, a mere fisherman, have nothing to worry about."

Master Bai Qi mocked himself inwardly, lifting a heavy body with one hand like carrying a sack, turning to go downstairs and out the door.

"Your young master is dead drunk. Hurry home to make a bowl of ginger soup to sober up. This fellow here is Xu Zirong from the Inheritance Hall; settle him properly too."

Bai Qi said to Housekeeper Gui, who was driving the carriage outside the Mandarin Duck Tower.

"Alright, much obliged, Master Bai."

Housekeeper Gui bent slightly at the waist, supporting his Seventh Young Master into the carriage.

"Death is like a grand sleep, sleep as a brief death; why not indulge in a grand drunken slumber."

Bai Qi smiled, walking alone down the cold and deserted long street. Tonight, dark clouds hung low, shielding stars and moon, with occasional sound of clapper echoing from not far away.

Rumble—

Deep thunder rolled like a giant iron ball in a jar. As serpents of lightning danced, bean-sized raindrops splatted wildly, striking roof tiles and stone slabs, raising misty sprays.

"Truly an unexpected fine night rain, a pity I didn’t bring an umbrella."

Bai Qi chuckled softly, the sword-shaped mark on his brow flashed, and the nurtured Nanming Li Fire quivered suddenly.

His body was instantly covered with a blazing red light, as if draped in a Daoist official’s magical robe, evaporating and isolating the gusty storm which was forming.

When he leisurely strolled back to the Inheritance Hall, he pushed open the door to see Master Chen Xing sitting alone in the hall, seemingly waiting for him.

"Master..."

Bai Qi showed surprise; ordinarily, after having supper, Chen Xing would head back home to accompany his wife and rarely stayed out overnight.

Now, with it nearing the late hour of Hai, Master was yet to return home, which was indeed curious.

"Ah Qi, in a few days you’ll return to Black River County. Before you go, I have a great gift for you."

Chen Xing smelled the alcohol on his good disciple, a smile at the corner of his mouth:

"That’s right, young one, ought to behave like a young one should.

Drinking and making merry, galloping on horseback, joyful vengeance... all should be done to the fullest."

Bai Qi walked slowly to the foot of the hall’s steps, the dense rain turned into wisps of white mist, drifting like floating clouds:

"Master speaks of boldness and also of danger. On a rainy, moonless, and gusty night, are you planning to do something with your disciple?"

His senses were sharp, detecting the edge hidden in Chen Xing’s words.

"Your master once wiped out four families; the Su Family was uprooted by him, and even the last girl, Su Wan’Er, along with her connection, Luo Zhaopeng, are gone.

Now, the remnants of the Mao Family, Han Family, and Fang Family are still like restless ghosts hiding in the County City. Last time, while covertly watching, I crushed a few of them."

Chen Xing’s fingers tapped the table, scrutinizing Bai Qi, who stood upright:

"Good disciple, do you dare to have a bold kill?"

As soon as Master spoke, the divine sword at his brow excitedly trembled,

Bai Qi clasped his hands, raising his brows:

"Please let me test my sword’s edge; it is my heart’s desire."