Jin Shengjie’s eyelids twitched. He asked slowly, “Runes Formation. Lil’ Friend Ou, do you study Runes Formation too?”
He was secretly taken aback. It was already unbelievable for Ou Yangming to have practiced smithing art to a high level at such a young age, but he just found out that the young fellow’s attainment in Runes Formation was not inferior to his smithing art standard.
The blacksmith master had heard of formation maps similar to the Spirit-gathering Runes Formation, but how many people could actually grasp it?
However, he did not know that Ou Yangming learned the Spirit-gathering Runes Formation from Elder Universe, and the young fellow would have been clueless if he studied it on his own.
Jin Shengjie shook his head. He completely gave up on the smithing technique that exceeded his rank.
Since it involved the path of runes, based on his age and energy, it was not something that he could learn. At the very least, he knew his limitations.
Despite that, although Jin Shengjie was slightly upset, he was not careless when Ou Yangming asked him questions. Instead, he gathered his energy and taught the young fellow everything he knew as much as possible.
The carriage did not move quickly, but Ou Yangming felt like time passed in a flash. When he sensed that the carriage slowed down, he knew they had almost arrived at their destination.
Ou Yangming bowed at Jin Shengjie and expressed his gratitude, “Thank you for your pointers, Master Jin.”
He spoke from the bottom of his heart because Jin Shengjie was indeed more experienced in layering Unique Attributes. In particular, Master Jin’s comprehension in the theory was far better than Old Craftsman’s. This was the difference between the orthodox and the unorthodox methods. Even though one could achieve the same goal through both ways and the unorthodox method seemed easier, without enough foundation, Ou Yangming’s growth would be obstructed in the future.
Jin Shengjie opened another door for Ou Yangming to arrive at the peak, allowing the young fellow to see a completely different path. When Ou Yangming merged it with his previous experiences, he realized that his vision became broader. If he were to take the assessment again, he was confident about attempting triple-layering without using the Military Fire’s unique power.
Master Jin accepted the salutation calmly and noted in a deep voice, “Lil’ Friend Ou, my generation’s potential has come to an end, so we need people like you to uplift the empire’s glory in the future!”
Just as Ou Yangming nodded, Du Gaoge called out to them from outside the carriage, “Master Jin, Master Ou, we’ve arrived!”
The curtain was drawn apart, and cheers were heard when Jin Shengjie and Ou Yangming exited the carriage one after another.
“Master Jin, long time no see. I trust you’ve been well!”
It was a youthful lady who spoke, and she smiled like a flower. The lady walked at a brisk pace and approached Jin Shengjie gracefully.
Jin Shengjie raised his eyebrows and laughed. “Ah, it’s Shixue. Hehe, are you here to welcome me—the old man-or your pavilion’s distinguished guest?”
The lady pursed her lips and smiled. “The two of you traveled together in the same carriage and had an enjoyable conversation, so does it make a difference who I’m here to welcome?”
“You’re eloquent. Lil Friend Ou, this is Bai Shixue, the daughter of Elder Bai from the Yi Pavilion. She’s quite young, but she has already become the pavilion’s backbone!” Jin Shengjie laughed out loud and added after a short pause, “You mustn’t be careless if you deal with her, or you’ll have to count money for her even if you’re sold.”
Ou Yangming could not help but laugh at the weird yet interesting introduction. He figured that this might be Master Jin Shengjie’s real nature.
Bai Shixue was stunned for a while, and she did not know to cry or to laugh. “Master Jin, you’re truly a good senior!”
She turned to greet Ou Yangming, “Master Ou, please forgive me for not welcoming you when you first arrived from Changlong County.”
Ou Yangming beamed. He knew the lady was flattering him, but he was in high spirits because the words came from such a beautiful lady. “Young Lady Bai, you’re being too polite. Shopkeeper Du served me well, and I was pleased.”
Du Gaoge was not qualified to stay with them anymore, but he was not far away. After he heard Ou Yangming’s comment, he nodded at the young fellow gratefully. “Master Ou, you were pleased, but we haven’t done our best.” Bai Shixue lowered her head, then she turned around and gestured to the masters to enter the pavilion. “I’ve prepared a feast for you, please.”
When Ou Yangming first arrived at the capital, he had a recommendation badge from Changlong County’s head shopkeeper, but he was not qualified to meet the young pavilion master. After today’s Blacksmith Assessment, he could almost be on par with Jin Shengjie, who was a Superior Blacksmith, hence he could enjoy a better treatment.
With that, the three of them entered the pavilion cheerfully. When Bai Shixue waved her hand, someone naturally laid out drinks and food in front of them.
Ou Yangming had never been too particular about his food and drink. He took a casual look at the dishes and realized that they were served delicacies from land and sea, which he had never seen before.
He shook his head and thought, ‘The people from the capital know how to live it up.’
The sharp-eyed Bai Shixue asked with a smile, “Master Ou, is there anything you’re unhappy about?” Ou Yangming laughed. “No. Young Lady Bai, you’re serving us too well, so I’m rather overwhelmed.”
Bai Shixue smiled with her lips pursed. Her beauty was unparalleled as she looked like a blooming flower. “Master Ou, you’re good with words. It’s you who’s making me overwhelmed!”
Jin Shengjie giggled. “Shixue, you’re trying to invite Lil’ Friend Ou to join the upcoming Myriad Treasure Meet, am I right?”
“Master Jin, you have an all-seeing eye, I can’t hide anything from you.” Bai Shixue sighed.
“Young Lady Bai, before I left Changlong County, I promised Head Shopkeeper Lin Yichen that I’m willing to be at the Yi Pavilion’s service.” Ou Yangming cleared his throat.
“Master Ou, I’m sure you understand that for the same thing, the effect will be completely different if different energy is put into it!” Bai Shixue glanced at Ou Yangming with her pretty eyes, which looked like they could speak. As she stared at the young fellow, she somehow made him take pity on her.
That said, Ou Yangming soon felt a shiver run over his body.
It was not like he had never seen a beauty anyway; he and Ni Yinghong were in love, and she was not inferior to Bai Shixue at all in terms of her appearance. Nonetheless, Ou Yangming was still moved when he faced Bai Shi Xue.
He quickly released enormous mental power and came back to his senses.
Even so, Ou Yangming was still horrified. ‘What secret technique does this lady cultivate?’
Bai Shixue’s eyes wandered about, and she soon had a strange look on her face. ‘Ou Yangming got rid of my seduction so easily. Is he sexually impotent? Or does he have other hobbies?’
Ou Yangming and Bai Shixue had different thoughts when they exchanged glances, and they were fearful of each other.
Chapter 272 - The Body Of Charm
‘These young people are truly full of vigor and energy,’ Jin Shengjie shook his head and thought. He later laughed and asked, “My good niece, you’re hoping that Lil’ Friend Ou will go all out to help you, am I right?”
Bai Shixue blushed. Although Ou Yangming foresaw it and knew she was likely pretending, he was still somewhat moved.
“Master Jin, aren’t you asking the obvious?” Bai Shixue expressed softly, “We hope that Master Ou will give his all, but we’d also like you to lend us a helping hand!”
Jin Shengjie sighed. “You should know that while I participate in the Myriad Treasure Meet, I’ve always attended it as an individual; I’ve never been roped in by any force.”
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br /> “I understand, but since you’re here, I obviously have to try my luck,” Bai Shixue quickly explained. She then pursed her lips and smiled. “If you become drunk and agree to help us, wouldn’t I be overjoyed?”
“I can’t believe you came up with such a plan, little girl.” Jin Shengjie could not help but laugh, then he suddenly said, “Fine. If you’re able to promise me something, Lil’ Friend Ou and me will help you.”
Bai Shixue’s eyes lit up right away, but she did not give her response just yet. She hesitated for a while before she replied to the master, “Master Jin, please give me the order.”
Jin Shengjie had never formed cliques and sects, and he was never too close to any force.
Based on his detached identity as a Superior Blacksmith, those powerful forces would only work with him and would never fight with him.
However, when Jin Shengjie changed his decision, Bai Shixue kept her guard up even though she was elated. ‘What exactly made this stubborn old man give up his persistence?’
Moreover, she also knew that Jin Shengjie was not going to make a small request.
Jin Shengjie asked, “Given that the Yi Pavilion has stores across the world, do you know of Master Lu from Changlong County?”
Bai Shixue looked up at Jin Shengjie in shock. “Master Jin, are you saying that you want to promote the matter?”
“You’re right. Since it’ll benefit the people greatly, I’ll spare no effort in promoting it.” Jin Shengjie nodded.
“But I’m just afraid that… It won’t be easy to convince the imperial family!” Ou Yangming tensed up a little because he finally understood why Li Xinfan and Jin Shengjie mumbled as if they were hiding something when they spoke about the matter. It turned out that they were concerned about the imperial family.
“Young Lady Bai, if the thing about upgrading the quality of economical armaments becomes popularized, I suppose the imperial family will benefit from it the most?” Ou Yangming was confused. “Why are they making things difficult?”
Bai Shixue lifted the wine pot and filled Ou Yangming’s cup before she answered gently, “If Master Lu is willing to enter the capital to become the imperial family’s tributary and guarantees that the technique won’t be spread, I’m sure the imperial family’s elders will be happy to see it happen.”
Ou Yangming raised his eyebrow because he instantly understood what she meant.
“The imperial family’s elders can’t be that petty, right?” Ou Yangming asked dubiously. “They’re not petty; too much is involved in the matter, so those with authority can’t tolerate this formidable technique of upgrading armaments ending up with someone else,” Jin Shengjie shook his head and explained helplessly, “It’ll be fine if Master Lu is willing to come to the capital, but if he refuses to and discovers something else, hehe…”
Ou Yangming felt a chill in his heart, and his face took on a ghastly expression. ‘Will Master Lu’s ending be my future?’
Nonetheless, Ou Yangming’s martial arts cultivation base was far beyond Master Lu’s reach. Perhaps Master Lu could not resist, but it would not mean that the young fellow would allow himself to be captured without putting up a fight. “Hmph! How can they do that? Aren’t they afraid of the beast tide?” Ou Yangming felt indignant.
Bai Shixue’s eyes glowed, and she looked at Ou Yangming in surprise because it was not simple for him to know about the beast tide at such a young age.
Jin Shengjie scoffed. “When the beast tide comes, the local forces from each county will be the first to bear the brunt of the attack. In particular, big families with profound inheritances will suffer terrible losses. Perhaps the elders from the imperial family would love to hear and see that happen…”
“Master Jin!” Bai Shixue immediately shouted coquettishly to cut off Jin Shengjie. “You made a slip of the tongue!”
Jin Shengjie was stunned for some time before he sighed. “Ah, I said too much. Forget it, let’s not talk about this anymore!”
Ou Yangming kept quiet, but he found out about many secrets from their short conversation.
He vaguely understood why the Ni family chose to disclose the rune through Master Lu instead of doing it themselves. It might not be because it would not conform with an aristocratic family’s benefits, but because they knew from the start it would cause such trouble.
“My dear niece, I’m not going to have empty talks with you. Are you willing to run about for this?” Jin Shengjie lifted his cup and downed his drink before he asked Bai Shixue in a heroic spirit. With bright eyes, he assured the lady. “As long as you promise to help, Lil’ Friend Ou and me will do our best. We dare not guarantee that we’ll make you victorious in the Myriad Treasure Meet, but we’ll at least let you be one of the top three.”
Bai Shixue pondered for a moment and asked, “Master Jin, do you trust me that much? Aren’t you going to discuss it with my father?”
Jin Shengjie could not help but laugh. “If I don’t trust you, why would I discuss it with you? Besides, when has that old man ever objected to any of your decisions?” “Thank you for trusting me, Master Jin.” Bai Shixue curled her lips into a smile. She glanced at the two masters for some time before she expressed, “Since you value me so much, Master Jin, I’m willing to follow your lead and give it a shot!”
“Very well, I’m confident now that I have your word.” Jin Shengjie’s eyes lit up. He raised his cup and uttered, “Come, let’s drink up and congratulate ourselves in advance for a successful attempt.”
With that, the three of them downed their drinks, but they knew it would be difficult to complete the task.
Ou Yangming was about to return to his courtyard after the feast when Bai Shixue led him to another residence.
As compared to the previous small courtyard, the residence was truly luxurious. The decorations inside were marvelous, and it was evident from the details that thoughtful work was done. Though Ou Yangming expected that he would enjoy better treatments from now on, he was shocked because he did not think it would happen in a flash.
After he sent Bai Shixue away, he rather admired the youthful young lady, who was heroic and was not inferior to men at all.
On the next morning, once Ou Yangming was done with his morning practice and had his breakfast, Jin Shengjie visited him.
The old man was clearly regretful about failing to invite Ou Yangming to his residence.
Jin Shengjie cut to the chase as soon as they met. “Let’s go meet Brother Wu; he’s a key person, so if we’re able to gain his support, we’ll have a much higher chance.”
Ou Yangming nodded. “I’ll follow your arrangements, senior.”
In actuality, before Ou Yangming entered the capital, Li Xinfan had briefed him and agreed to introduce the gentlemen in the imperial court to promote the matter together.
While Ou Yangming had not gone according to Li Xinfan’s path, he was not inferior and was even superior in terms of influence.
When Ou Yangming expressed his desire to visit Master Wu Hongxi, the Yi Pavilion prepared the most luxurious carriage at once. The carriage was of a higher grade than Jin Shengjie’s carriage yesterday, but Ou Yangming was somewhat low-spirited because Bai Shixue had not shown up yet. The young fellow felt like there was a lack of color when the beautiful and graceful figure was not around.
Nevertheless, Ou Yangming came back to his senses after a brief moment as he realized that his emotions were a bit off.
He hesitated for a while after he entered the carriage, but he raised the question in the end, “Master Jin, what secret technique does Young Lady Bai cultivate?”
Jin Shengjie smiled mysteriously and questioned, “Were you moved?”
Ou Yangming blushed. “Senior, you’re kidding me. I just felt that she’s… Unordinary.”
“She’s unordinary indeed. Hehe, if she was normal, Elder Bai wouldn’t have let her manage the huge Yi Pavilion.” Jin Shengjie sighed and lowered his voice after a pause. “Shixue doesn’t cultivate any unique sec
ret technique; she was only born with the Body of Charm.”
Ou Yangming was taken aback. Countless thoughts crossed his mind as he recalled the ancient books that he read from the Ni family’s library.
Back then, Ou Yangming prioritized learning the path of runes, but he casually read books from other aspects too.
Humans had a great many powerhouses for generations. There were thousands and ten thousands of them whose names were known, let alone those whose names were never recorded in history.
Powerhouses had extremely complicated backgrounds, but there was a kind of powerhouse that was known as a born powerhouse.
If one had physiques like the Body of Extreme Yang, the Body of Extreme Yin, the Body of the Five Elements, and so on, one would certainly become a target for all great forces.
It was the same for the Body of Charm. It was not as known as the bodies of Yin, Yang, and the Five Elements, but it seemed to be one of the higher-ranked physiques in ancient records.
Ou Yangming was confused about it before this, but he came to a sudden realization after having witnessed it yesterday.
He could not forget about Bai Shixue after he met her just once yesterday, to the extent that her twinkles and smiles during the feast would appear in front of him at any time.
Ou Yangming had mighty mental power but was still deeply captivated by the young lady, and everything happened soundlessly. Based on this alone, it was clear that Bai Shixue’s Body of Charm was unbelievable.
The young fellow asked as he was struck with a thought, “Master Jin, why weren’t you moved then?” If Bai Shixue truly had the Body of Charm, it would only make sense that men and women of all ages would be drawn to her without any exception.
Immortal Path to Heaven c1-725 Page 162