Shi Chun paused for a moment, then suddenly turned his head and said to him, "Keep this a secret for me for now."

Wu Jinliang, twiddling the corner of his small mustache, immediately let go and poured him a drink, "Rest assured. As soon as you decide, let me know, and I'll resolve it for you at the fastest speed, making sure not to delay your business."

Wangxian Building was a great place, one that truly could make a person forget about becoming an immortal. Tonight, at Wangxian Building, there was no insistence on leaving only when drunk; it was enough to indulge oneself amidst the flowers and willows.

The only pity was for Zhu Xiangxin. As a woman, she couldn't fully enjoy herself here, but seeing such lavishness was also an eye-opening experience for her.

Of course, what shocked her the most was the wealth and nobility of so many, although they might not remember her afterward. Still, tonight everyone was toasting to them, since the evening's banquet had been hosted to welcome and cleanse them from the dust of their journey.

Tonight was like a dream, especially for them, who had just spent a long half-year in jail. The impression was particularly deep...

They didn't return for the entire night.

The next day at dawn, Feng Chi, who had found out the news, also reported the prior night's events at Wangxian Building, which were akin to spending gold like dust.

Hearing that Wu Jinliang had thrown a million gold to amuse the ladies, Xiang Laner's face turned green with envy. How much had it cost to buy her own freedom? Had these people gone mad?

She couldn't help but laugh coldly, saying, "Really generous, using the money we gave them to show off."

Feng Chi added, "Last night, Shi Chun did not seek any woman for company."

Xiang Laner pursed her lips, "It doesn't matter whether he did or didn't, it's none of our concern."

It wasn't until the afternoon that Shi Chun and his group returned on several carriages. Chu Jingtang and the rest were naturally brought along as well. They parted the curtains to look out and saw their carriages passing through a Protection Array with their own eyes.

To live in a place sheltered by a Protection Array was surprising, as even most sects didn't have such protection.

Of course, after the previous night's experience, they were no longer surprised by the lavishness of Shi Chun and the other person.

It was said that the bill for a night at Wangxian Building alone was over ten million gold, leaving them speechless the whole way.

Not just them – even Wu Jinliang's friends were secretly clicking their tongues at last night's extravagance, which truly added much face to Wu Jinliang.

The carriages stopped outside a courtyard that was resplendent with natural beauty. The ornate layout of pavilions, terraces, and towers, as well as the craftsmanship, all indicated that it was a luxurious mansion.

As everyone got out of the carriages and looked around, Shi Chun led them inside, pointing at the houses as he went, "This is what I bought for you guys yesterday. You'll live here from now on. Pick whichever house you want, discuss amongst yourselves, I won't be involved anymore."

The eleven people looked at each other in astonishment. Just bought? For us to live in?

A peaceful haven in the midst of the bustling capital, and with a Protection Array too; they knew the cost of such a large estate must be astronomical.

But thanks to the previous night's prelude, they were somewhat able to accept it. They were only shocked again.

Upon entering the main hall, Shi Chun took out his money again, distributing a banknote to each person, "The house has just been bought, and many things aren't provided yet. I'm not sure about your tastes, so after you choose your rooms, buy any furnishings you like."

One by one, as they received the banknotes and looked at the amount, which could be exchanged for a million gold, they were shocked. Some even gasped – was this really being given to them?

At the sects, disciples of their level only received a few thousand coins per month and some resources for cultivation, and this was because their sects were quite powerful and could provide so well – many other sects would only give a few hundred gold, and some sects didn't give out any stipend at all.

Naturally, as their strength in the sects increased, so would their benefits.

But to receive a million gold all at once was a significant shock; even last night's luxury had not provided such a direct benefit.

Wu Jinliang's snickering on the side brought them back to reality.

"This isn't right, this isn't appropriate..." Some began to decline.

Following suit, the others quickly tried to return the money.

"Enough," Shi Chun waved a generous hand, "Don't be so formal with me; we're not strangers. You've followed me since the West Pole, and now you've been rejected by the sects because of me; I can't just watch and do nothing.

Don't forget, although the Sky Rain Meteor Conference is over, we haven't said our goodbyes; we're still together.

Whatever I won from the Sky Rain Meteor Conference, you all have a share in that. Just accept what I give you; it's your due.

Enough with the formalities. Forget about those worthless sects – heartless and ungrateful – what's so great about them? Do not pine for what you've lost.

I'll say it again, we haven't split up; I'm still your 'Master'. As long as I have, you won't lack. We'll walk our own path, make something of ourselves, and strive to make those sects regret ever kicking us out. That's what a true man does!"

These words both moved and touched the group as they glanced at the enormous banknotes in their hands, overwhelmed with myriad emotions; they hadn't expected anything but came out of prison to a share of the profits.

They were well aware it was just an excuse to give them money to alleviate their current predicament; there was no need to share the rewards of the Sky Rain Meteor Conference with them.

Laughing, Wu Jinliang suddenly piped up, "Once a Master, always a Master!"

After exchanging looks, Chu Jingtang, now with his jaw beard neatly trimmed, took the lead in bowing and said, "Thank you, Master."

Then the others also clasped their hands in unison and said, "Thank you, Master."

With these words, reassurance settled in their hearts after paying their respects.

When they were first expelled from the sect, they had indeed felt lost about their futures. Now things were looking up; they had a direction and felt more at ease.

Of course, if Shi Chun had been a poor and powerless man, they certainly wouldn't have paid him this respect. However, their experiences after being released from imprisonment were witnessed firsthand: abundant wealth and power, obviously enjoying a much smoother life than when they were part of the Sect.

They had also experienced the Master's abilities firsthand; the Master had defeated Mulan Qingqing right before their eyes.

So, this bow was sincere in heart and voice, ready to follow him henceforth!

Wu Jinliang chuckled again.

"Alright, set up your own dens. If you need anything, buy it quickly. I live next door to you, behind that mountain on the side, that's where I stay. If you need anything, feel free to find me. Jinliang, they're not familiar with the place, get Duan Xiangmei to come over and explain things to them."

Shi Chun said this as he walked away.

"Alright." Wu Jinliang, carrying the Big Gourd, chuckled and followed.

A group of people followed out, standing at the gate they watched the two men cross the mountain and disappear; then they looked at the money in their hands, sighing.

Some looked up at the sky and exhaled, finally finding peace in body and mind.

Shi Chun and another person encountered Xiang Laner and Feng Chi, who had come after hearing the news, and Duan Xiangmei who had hurried over as well.

It was just right; Wu Jinliang directly asked Duan Xiangmei to go and clarify things for the others.

Watching Duan Xiangmei fly down the mountain and then looking towards the figures in the residence, Xiang Laner asked, "What's your purpose in bringing them here?"

Shi Chun knew that the commotion he had caused in plain sight couldn't possibly escape the notice of these Demon Path members and casually explained, "That big house is empty anyway, might as well let them live there."

Xiang Laner: "Do you know why they were imprisoned?"

Shi Chun: "I know. They plotted to assassinate me but were caught in the act."

Xiang Laner said with disbelief, "And you still bring them close to you? You think they'll just be happy after having some fun, and all will be forgiven? They're furious at being expelled from their sects because of you. They would kill you if they could, don't you know that?"

Wu Jinliang laughed broadly, his smile reaching his ears.

It was impossible to discuss this matter with this woman. Everyone's perception of the issue was different, and so were their methods of resolution. Shi Chun wasn't interested in arguing about this with her and said perfunctorily, "I'm well aware of it."

Changing the subject, he asked, "Regarding the Divine Fire Domain, was the true purpose of sending me really just to assist and offer advice?"

Upon hearing this, both women quickly scanned their surroundings.

After making sure no one was nearby, Xiang Laner said, "Don't worry, we haven't deceived you. The objective of you assisting us is to provide your insights and methods in time. There's no need for you to rush to the frontlines to fight."

Shi Chun pondered and said, "If that's the case, I've given it some thought. The trip in ten days, I think, let's forget it."

The two women were instantly up in arms.

"What do you mean?" Xiang Laner asked sternly.

Feng Chi gave a stern warning, "You've taken the money, and now to say let's forget it, that's not funny. If you can't commit, don't joke about it!"

Shi Chun rolled his eyes and said, "You asked for my insights, and I'm starting to work now. What's the hurry? I mean, the main plan doesn't change, but we should alter our approach. I don't think your method is a good one. Let me tell you about my idea."

Feng Chi's mood changed quickly, her expression now hopeful, "Then let's hear it."

Shi Chun: "Don't go to Julu State and join some sect pretending it's a chance encounter. I can create an Artifact Refining Sect right here and directly participate in the Divine Fire Covenant. There's no need to go such a roundabout way."

What nonsense? The expressions of both women stiffened simultaneously.

Feng Chi: "Are you joking? If everyone did as you do, creating a sect on the fly to slip into the Divine Fire Domain, then what would that make of the Divine Fire Covenant? It would be nothing but worthless paper!

The entrance to the Divine Fire Domain is controlled by those Artifact Refining Sects, who guard it as if it were their lifeblood.

Just convincing them to let a newly formed sect in is not just a matter of Shengshen Continent, but involves all the Artifact Refining Sects across the Four Continents and many more factors. Not to mention that pushing through the red tape is a hassle and too many approvals could easily reveal our tracks.

Moreover, introducing a new sect would attract too much attention. Coupled with your reputation, such an approach would be too conspicuous and would surely draw detailed scrutiny from relevant parties on every aspect of your newly crafted sect's entry. We cannot afford that risk.

Your suggestion is simply unfeasible; I don't need to consult to know that we can't do it."

Could it really be so complex and difficult that even the Demon Path couldn't manage it? Shi Chun was somewhat confused by Young Master Nan's assurances; it all seemed too easy when he spoke of it and he was so eager to help.

Logically, considering Young Master Nan's experience, he should know if it were feasible. If it were difficult, it wouldn't make sense for him to be so proactive.

Immediately, Shi Chun tried asking, "If Young Master Nan is willing to help, could he resolve this issue?"

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