"This kind of polluted spiritual root, and techniques too — remnant scrolls will do — or news about cave estates. Use your own judgment."

Shen Yi voice-transmitted through the cobblestone, handing several storage pouches over to Aqing in the same motion.

"Alright."

Aqing gripped the pouches in excitement. For some reason, the man's baseless trust like this always left her feeling an inexplicable warmth and delight of heart.

The others had grown somewhat unable to restrain themselves and made to rise and come over. Just then, a row of attendants came down from upstairs, each bearing a jade platter. The rich fragrance instantly drew everyone's attention. Even the business of exchanging treasures was cast to the back of their minds. Moving swiftly, they set fine dishes on each table according to the number of people, then brought over mellow, fragrant medicinal wine.

At the very rear of the attendants, Mei Xiyao came pacing gracefully over, walking to the corner. She came slowly to a stop, a measure of respect on her exquisite, pretty face, and said warmly, "Perfected Master Qingfeng invites the two of you upstairs for a talk."

Aqing very consciously excluded herself. Pressing both hands to the tabletop, she watched the coming and going of the attendants and couldn't help swallowing.

At the sight, Mei Xiyao gave a light laugh. "Rest assured — one will be prepared for you as well."

"Thank you, big sister."

Aqing withdrew her gaze happily.

Falling into others' eyes, though, it made no small number of people shake their heads inwardly. This white-faced boy — did he imagine a sweet mouth could win Miss Mei's favor? After all her years receiving and seeing off guests in this Eight-Direction Dining Hall, her eye had long grown higher than the heavens.

Still, even Perfected Master Qingfeng was inviting that Senior. His background truly ran deep after all.

"Fine."

Shen Yi, though somewhat puzzled, didn't refuse. After all, having only just left Great Qian, he really hadn't met many powerhouses of any real standing.

Chen Zhong, for his part, didn't much mind. He knew clearly he…