Male Consort Upgrade System

by Usui Takumii

not mine, ckanda writes, beware bl. Total: 247 Chapters.

24. 221 to 230

A little after 7 o'clock, Ji Chang brought over the invitation letter.

Yan Ge looked at it and saw that the time for the exchange meeting was 7 o'clock in the evening.

Around 6 o'clock in the evening, the two of them headed out and spotted Ji Chang's car parked on the side of the road.

"Mr. Huangfu, Mr. Yan," Ji Chang quickly walked over.

"Have you been here all along or did you leave and come back?" Yan Ge was curious. Wang Zhiyuan's courteous behavior towards him and Yuchen was intriguing.

Ji Chang was handsome and carried an air of sophistication. When he smiled, two shallow dimples appeared on his face, giving him a slight Burmese appearance. However, his personality was not shy but rather lively. "I arrived a little after 5. I came specifically to pick you both up but if you prefer to drive yourselves, I can guide you."

His enthusiasm wasn't annoying, and Yan Ge nodded, "Since that's the case, please take us."

"Alright, please get in."

The three of them got into the car, and the vehicle smoothly headed downhill.

Yan Ge inquired, "Mr. Ji, how many cultivators are participating in this exchange meeting?"

Ji Chang responded, "Mr. Yan, you can just call me Ji Chang. Actually, the main activity of this exchange meeting is an auction, facilitating the exchange of cultivation resources among cultivators. We've sent out over a hundred invitation letters in total. As for how many people will actually attend, that's uncertain."

This was easy to understand. Some cultivators preferred solitary cultivation and might not want to show themselves in public. Some might even send their disciples or students in their place. According to Ji Chang's explanation, it seemed that the number of cultivators in the country was indeed not large.

—'Horseshoes point south, people look north, gazing at green grass and rising yellow dust…'

"Hello." Yan Ge saw the phone number and signaled to Huangfu Yuchen. It was the detective agency calling.

Huangfu Yuchen leaned close together to listen to the call.

Ji Chang, who was at the driver's seat, kept his focus on driving.

"Mr. Yan, we've found out that Du Rulan visited the Mo'an Temple and met with the abbot there, Master Xuyan. She stayed inside for over half an hour. When she entered, she was carrying a bag filled with something, but when she left, her hands were empty. Additionally, on the same afternoon, she bought four pieces of jade from the Jinxin Jade Shop."

"Are you sure it's four pieces?" Yan Ge asked.

The voice on the other end replied confidently, "Yes, we're sure."

"Got it. I'll transfer the remaining payment within ten minutes."

"Alright, goodbye. Feel free to contact us if you need anything in the future."

After hanging up, Huangfu Yuchen sent a voice transmission, "It seems that this jade is connected to that Master Xuyan."

After Yan Ge completed the transfer, he relaxed against Huangfu Yuchen and searched his memory, "Master Xuyan? I think I've heard of him. They say he's a highly respected monk who's skilled in divination. Many people line up to have him read their fortunes."

Huangfu Yuchen held his hand but didn't say much. Suspicion and caution had crept into his heart regarding Master Xuyan. He would go meet him after the exchange meeting.

Ji Chang's car entered the flow of traffic, gliding into the city center amid shimmering neon lights, and finally stopping at the entrance of a large hotel.

"Mr. Huangfu, Mr. Yan, we're here." Ji Chang got out of the car and led the way. "Please come in."

The three of them entered the lobby and took the elevator to the fifth-floor banquet hall.

The banquet hall was filled with people, all dressed in suits and elegant attire. They held wine glasses, engaged in quiet conversations. It resembled a business gathering.

Ji Chang noticed their curiosity and whispered an explanation, "This exchange meeting is being held in the form of a business gathering. Cultivators aren't very willing to interact with ordinary people and usually adopt disguised identities. So, this event is like hiding in plain sight. There's an unspoken understanding not to reveal each other's identities among cultivators."

Yan Ge nodded in understanding, and surveyed the room. Among the attendees were regular people and cultivators, mostly at the Divine Transformation stage and below. It appeared that the scarcity of spiritual energy on Earth still heavily influenced the cultivators. Or perhaps, those with higher cultivation levels were avoiding public appearances.

Ruan Mingwei, He Hong, and Zhang Jian were conversing with others not far away and occasionally glancing toward the entrance. On seeing Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen, they excused themselves and walked over briskly.

"Mr. Huangfu, Mr. Yan."

Seeing the respect for Huangfu Yuchen in their eyes, Yan Ge's lips curled up. They planned to stay on Earth for a few more years and it was impossible not to interact with anyone. He was pleased to see that Yuchen had quickly established his own network of connections.

Huangfu Yuchen appraised the three and nodded, "Indeed, your cultivation is much more stable than the last time we met."

"Thank you for your guidance, Mr. Huangfu," Ruan Mingwei said with a smile.

Huangfu Yuchen responded lightly, "It was a small effort. There's no need to mention it again in the future."

A waiter passed by, and He Hong offered Yan Ge a glass of red wine. "Mr. Yan, try the wine here." While they hadn't witnessed Yan Ge's abilities, they were certain that he was stronger than them. So, they didn't overlook him to avoid seeming disrespectful.

"Thank you." Yan Ge took the red wine and took a sip.

Zhang Jian whispered, "The official exchange meeting will start for a little while."

Yan Ge nodded secretly. These four were also good in social situations.

Other cultivators in the hall noticed Ji Chang and his group's unusual attitude toward the two strangers. They glanced over with curiosity, their eyes landing on Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen. They couldn't tell that the two were cultivators, yet there was a sense of intrigue. If they weren't cultivators, why would Ji Chang's group treat them with such respect?

"Yan Ge, Huangfu, you're here too?"

Xu Kai's voice sounded from behind.

Yan Ge heard the tone in his voice and knew that what he really meant to say was, "What are you doing here?" Xu Kai probably felt that asking that way was inappropriate and changed his words.

Yan Ge turned around and looked at the well-dressed young man, smiling, "Why? If Young Master Xu can come, why can't we?"

Seeing that they had encountered an acquaintance, Ji Chang and his group tactfully moved away.

"Where else would I be? I got too excited when I saw you guys," Xu Kai said in amusement. He was genuinely surprised. This gathering was a business event, attended by high-ranking individuals. Yan Ge wasn't well-received in his family, and his once flourishing company was nolonger under his management, so technically, he wasn't qualified to be here.

'Could it be that he was here with Huangfu Yuchen?' Xu Kai had inquired about Huangfu Yuchen from Yan Ge before, and Yan Ge had only given vague responses, which showed that there was more to it. But he didn't probe further. He and Yan Ge were good friends. If there was something Yan Ge knew, he would definitely let him know.

Yan Ge pointed to a distance and said in a joking tone, "We came for some food. How about you?"

Xu Kai chuckled, "I doubt that. I saw the photos your boyfriend posted on Weibo. You guys went on a car trip to S Province. Your life is truly one to envy."

"When in high spirits, one should indulge. You can do it too." Yan Ge patted his shoulder, "We plan to visit Y Province mext time."

Huangfu Yuchen added, "And then C Province after Y."

'These two were just teasing.' Xu Kai shook his head helplessly, "Seriously, don't you guys plan to do something productive?"

Yan Ge spread his hands, "We haven't thought that far ahead. My first plan is to travel around the country with Yuchen. There are so many famous places to see; even if we visit them all, it'll take two to three months. We'll see what comes next. Yuchen, do you have any thoughts?"

Huangfu Yuchen hugged Yan Ge's shoulder, "Starting a farm might be nice."

Xu Kai's mouth twitched. A farm? If he remembered correctly, one of the Yan family's industries included a mansion. Farms and mansions were essentially similar. Was Huangfu Yuchen being deliberate. Was his purpose to stand up for Yan Ge?

Yan Ge's lips curled up, not saying anything. The softness in his eyes indicated he enjoyed Huangfu Yuchen's doting.

Xu Kai felt like he was being blinded ny their actions.

At that moment, Ji Chang and his group walked over. "Mr. Huangfu, Mr. Yan."

Xu Kai took the initiative and said, "You guys go ahead."

Yan Ge replied, "Alright, we'll talk another day."

Xu Kai watched as Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen followed Ji Chang through a side entrance at the banquet hall. He also discreetly observed the others who entered through that same door. He had noticed that Yan Ge had changed a lot compared to before, which is why he decided to observe these people.

To his surprise, he found that each one of them was either a prominent figure in the business world or a well-known name. Why had Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen suddenly gotten so close to these individuals?

Once Yan Ge and the rest entered the side door, they passed through a corridor and turned into another hall, which was the auction hall.

Wang Zhiyuan was in conversation with two middle-aged men in their forties. When he saw Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen, he nodded slightly but didn't approach them.

This move was in line with Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen's intentions. Wang Zhiyuan held a special position, and they didn't want to attract too much attention to them.

Huangfu Yuchen sent a voice transmission to Wang Zhiyuan's spiritual realm, "Mr. Wang, the two of us would like to seek your advice on a matter later on. Would you be available?"

Wang Zhiyuan also sent a message, "Hehe, of course, I'm available. It would be my honor to help you both. I assume you two didn't want to draw attention, so I didn't come over to personally greet you. I hope you don't mind."

"Not at all. It suits our intentions." Huangfu Yuchen replied casually.

After everyone had settled down quietly, the interior lighting became brighter.

Yan Ge looked around and saw no cultivators at the Golden Core stage or above.

Before long, the auctioneer took the stage and picked up the microphone. "Fellow cultivators, if you have items you wish to auction, please register promptly. The official auction will commence in ten minutes."

A few people began to register one after another.

Exactly ten minutes later, the auction officially started.

The auctioneer was very professional. After a brief opening statement, he went straight to the point without any unnecessary words and presented the first item up for auction.

Several individuals dressed in matching attire went around distributing auction brochures to everyone.

"Lot number one- a top-grade Spirit Stone weighing 1305 grams. As we all know, we cultivators absorb spiritual energy not only from heaven and earth but also from items rich in it, with the most effective being Spirit Stones. The spiritual energy within a Spirit Stone is more refined than that of the heaven and earth's, and absorption is faster. This Spirit Stone weighs 1305 grams, and I believe its effects need no further elaboration," the auctioneer explained in a brief and concise manner.

Below, many people had eager expressions, ready to bid.

"Starting price for the top-grade Spirit Stone is 1 million, with each subsequent bid no less than 100,000."

Yan Ge turned to Huangfu Yuchen, a smile in his eyes. If they were to auction their own Spirit Stones, they would become millionaires or even billionaires.

Huangfu Yuchen put his arm around Yan Ge. Money wasn't an issue for them. Whether it was the Foundation Establishment pills or the Spirit Stones, each item was precious.

But thinking about it, Yan Ge didn't want to avoid being pursued.

Other cultivators had already begun to bid eagerly, "1.1 million."

"1.2 million!"

"1.3 million!"

"1.4 million!"

…

Finally, the Spirit Stone was sold to a woman for 2 million.

The second item for auction was ten Spirit Gathering Talismans. These talismans were also valuable, as they could accelerate the absorption of spiritual energy during cultivation. They were sold for 1.1 million each.

The third item was a Nascent Infant Pill, most suitable for cultivators about to enter the Nascent Soul stage. It started at 2 million and was eventually sold for a high price of 3.2 million, which caused a sensation.

Yan Ge observed the expressions of the people around and noticed that their surprise wasn't due to the 3.2 million price, but rather the rarity of cultivators approaching the Nascent Soul stage.

However, the bidder was only at the Early Foundation Establishment stage, so it was clear that they were just acting as a proxy. The real buyer for the Nascent Infant Pill wasn't present.

…

After looking for a while, most items were unremarkable to Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen. They could acquire most of what they needed through the system store and weren't interested in competing with other cultivators.

In the end, they didn't purchase anything. However, they gained a general understanding of the cultivators present and the families and factions they were associated with.

During the event, Ji Chang relayed a message from Old Wang, asking them to stay for a while longer.

After the auction ended, Yan Ge, Huangfu Yuchen, and Old Wang got into Ji Chang's car.

"Mr. Huangfu, Mr. Yan." Wang Zhiyuan greeted them with his hands clasped together. "I wonder if there's anything I can assist you with?"

Huangfu Yuchen appreciated his straightforwardness and handed him the gift box containing the strange jade. "Could you see if there's anything unusual about this jade? I felt a strange fluctuation inside it before, but now it's gone, and I don't sense any danger."

Wang Zhiyuan accepted the gift box with both hands and, upon opening it, gently picked up the jade. Seeing the five black dots on the jade's surface, his expression changed subtly. "This seems to be… wait a moment."

He then infused a strand of his true qi into the jade. The energy within the jade once again fluctuated.

Both Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen frowned.

A sense of shock flashed across Wang Zhiyuan's face. He explained in detail to them, "Esteemed seniors, this jade contains an array called the Five-Point Control Array. It's a very malicious formation that contains a demon cultivator's true qi and records the birth details of the intended victim. This jade is only effective on cultivators, and it poses no threat as long as it's not worn close to the body. However, if worn for forty-nine days, the person will inevitably weaken and die without any discernible cause. If it weren't for my special status and having access to the most information, I wouldn't have known about this."

Huangfu Yuchen's hold on Yan Ge's hand tightened subconsciously, as if afraid he would disappear at any moment.

It turned out to be a demon cultivator's true qi. Ever since they had entered the world of cultivation, they had never come into contact with demon cultivators, so they didn't recognize the tainted true qi of a demon cultivator.

Yan Ge also felt a chill down his spine. The reason he and Yuchen dared to touch the jade was mainly that neither of them had shown any adverse reactions. But they hadn't anticipated that this jade would harbor such a malicious secret.

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen exchanged a glance, both thinking the same question: Did Du Rulan know that this jade wasn't a safeguard but a danger to Yan Ge?

Thinking about Du Rulan's reaction when he took the jade, their hearts sank.

A glint of killing intent flashed in Huangfu Yuchen's eyes as he asked, "How could recording someone's birth details harm the person whose birth details are recorded?"

Wang Zhiyuan explained, "Think of it like each person having a unique magnetic field. Recording their birth details in the jade makes the jade's 'magnetic field' align with the wearer's. The Five-Point Control Array then uses this as a medium to attack the wearer. As for why you don't feel any danger, that's the terrifying aspect of this formation. It causes harm imperceptibly."

Seeing the expressions on Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen's faces, he guessed something but refrained from asking further. "As long as the jade isn't worn close to the body, nothing will happen."

"Thank you." Huangfu Yuchen took out a small vial from his storage ring and handed it to Wang Zhiyuan. "This is called the Soul-Returning Pill. It can save a life as long as there's a breath remaining. I also refined it. It's a bit bitter in taste but just as effective."

Wang Zhiyuan was taken aback. He tried to decline, his tone solemn, "Both of you have saved my life. How could I accept something so valuable? Please take it back."

Huangfu Yuchen was firm. "You recognizing this formation is also a favor to both me and Xiao Ge."

Wang Zhiyuan didn't immediately understand his words, but he suddenly saw their intertwined hands and understood.

"Mr. Wang, please accept it." Yan Ge smiled.

Through this incident, Wang Zhiyuan realized that both of them were straightforward people and were interested in forming a close relationship. Since there would be more interactions between them in the future, he accepted the pill. "In that case, I'll gratefully accept."

"Farewell." Huangfu Yuchen pulled Yan Ge out of the car.

Wamg Zhiyuan watched the two gradually move away and disappear in the dazzling lights of the street lamps and neon lights, once again exclaiming at their extraordinary cultivation.

At this point, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were in the air.

"Baby, where's the Mo'an Temple?"

"This way." Yan Ge also wanted to see who was putting in so much effort to deal with him. This matter puzzled him greatly; back when he crossed over, he was just an ordinary person and hadn't offended anyone, let alone provoke demon cultivators.

Silently flying forward through the night, the city's twinkling lights below resembled stars in the sky. Feeling the gentle breeze and the warmth of the hand he held, Yan Ge's heart calmed down. He smiled and said to Huangfu Yuchen, "Running a farm sounds pretty good."

A cold gleam passed through Huangfu Yuchen's eyes, but his tone was gentle. "Baby, leave the farm to me."

"Alright." Yan Ge playfully leaned against his shoulder. "I've been busy in the Great Han Kingdom for so long. Now it's my turn to take a break. I'll be relying on you to support me from now on."

"No problem." Huangfu Yuchen held his hand and gave it a kiss, then looked at a tall silhouette in the shadows ahead. "Is that it?"

He had caught a unique aura.

"Yes." Yan Ge's lips curled with a hint of coldness.

In an instant, they teleported and appeared in the Mo'an Temple, and then started walking directly towards the source of the aura.

The temple was lit by lanterns. The lights swayed gently, causing the shadows of the buildings to dance along.

A young monk holding a broom walked over, and upon seeing the two, he paused and clasped his hands together. "Honored patrons, the temple is already closed. Perhaps you could return tomorrow."

Yan Ge didn't want to trouble innocent people, so he spoke calmly, "We're here to see Xuyan."

The young monk replied serenely, "The abbot is currently in seclusion. Please return another day."

"Seclusion? Is he there?" Huangfu Yuchen sneered. He nonchalantly placed his left hand behind his back while raising his right hand. With a swift motion, a fierce palm wind struck a courtyard a hundred meters away.

The gust of wind suddenly rose, and then halted after some point—Huangfu Yuchen had no intention of alarming unrelated bystanders, so he directed his attack only at the courtyard. People outside the courtyard wouldn't hear any commotion.

The young monk stared at Huangfu Yuchen with an odd expression.

The palm strike landed heavily on the courtyard's wall, emitting a silvery light that vanished in an instant.

Unexpectedly, the courtyard remained completely undamaged!

It was protected by a formation.

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen exchanged a glance, then flew up together, positioning themselves on the left and right of the courtyard and looking down.

There was no movement within the courtyard.

Yan Ge understood formations better than Huangfu Yuchen, so he suggested: "Yuchen, strike again."

Huangfu Yuchen raised his hand and struck once more.

As the silver light flashed again, Yan Ge's spiritual sense swiftly swept through the entire courtyard. In his spiritual sense, the courtyard transformed into a clear "skeleton," and even the spirit stones used to set up the formation were clearly visible to him. He smiled faintly and without hesitation, struck a lamp post with his palm.

In an instant, the entire courtyard appeared to have its protective membrane torn away, becoming somewhat dimmer.

At the same time, a figure in yellow and red shot up from inside the house and rushed off into the distance.

Unexpectedly, a figure flew out from the shadows and dashed towards it head-on. Simultaneously, an invisible punch hit the escaping figure like a hundred-pound hammer.

Xuyan grunted and fell back to the ground, his round eyes gleaming with panic. He spoke in a deep voice, "Amitabha. I wonder why the two honored patrons are disturbing this old monk's meditation?"

The one who had struck him was Huangfu Yuchen. At the sound of his words, Huangfu Yuchen sneered, and without any hesitation, delivered another palm strike.

Xuyan's wide build contrasted with his agility. He rose like a flying swallow, evading nimbly to the right. A hint of disdain flashed in his eyes as he looked at Huangfu Yuchen.

Unexpectedly, the palm strike from Huangfu Yuchen seemed to have a mind of its own. It suddenly changed direction and struck from behind. With a loud "bang," it landed on Xuyan's back.

Master Xuyan couldn't believe his eyes, and blood trickled from his mouth.

Just as he was about to escape, Huangfu Yuchen flew over and stood in front of him. His gaze was as if he were looking at a dead man.

A white shadow flashed over, and a new figure stood before Xuyan.

Yan Ge fixed his gaze on Xuyan, and he spoke slowly, "You should recognize me."

Xuyan saw his face clearly and was taken aback. In that instant, his eyes showed surprise, confusion, and doubt, as if he felt that Yan Ge shouldn't have found him, and certainly not so quickly.

Huangfu Yuchen saw it all clearly. He stepped forward and gripped Xuyan's chin with his left hand, while his right palm landed on his mouth, inserting something into it.

Xuyan's jaw was lifted slightly, and he subconsciously swallowed whatever was given to him, which made him panic. "What have you given me?!"

Yan Ge smiled playfully. "It's the same jade you gifted me. How does it taste?" After saying that, he tapped a few acupoints on Xuyan's body.

"Only I can undo your acupoints. As long as I don't undo them, you won't be able to force the jade out. I wonder what will happen after forty-nine days?"

A chill flashed through Xuyan's eyes as they darted left and right, seeking an opportunity to escape.

"Speak! Why did you target Xiao Ge?" Huangfu Yuchen questioned coldly.

Xuyan took a step back.

Huangfu Yuchen's voice lacked any warmth. "It seems you want me to use soul-searching on you." Xuyan's face filled with horror as he stared at him in disbelief.

'Soul-searching technique—had these two individuals reached such a level of cultivation?' Soul-searching caused immense harm to the target, ranging from partial paralysis to the complete destruction of one's cultivation.

Huangfu Yuchen slowly approached Xuyan, and each step felt like a heavy hammer striking Xuyan's heart. The immense pressure was like the sky before a storm, with dark clouds looming.

Xuyan had to believe that Huangfu Yuchen truly had that ability! Fear showed on his face. "I'll talk, I'll talk."

Both Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen stood expressionlessly, waiting for him to start.

Sweat covered Xuyan's face, his whole body shrinking in fear. He appeared completely different from the dignified Grandmaster before. "In recent years, the spiritual energy on Earth has been diminishing. For us cultivators, this is a desperate situation. All cultivators are trying to obtain spiritual energy, but it's not easy. I'm no exception. Being skilled in divination, I came up with a plan to accumulate wealth in the temple through fortune-telling, and then buy objects with spiritual energy from the mundane world. About twenty-eight years ago, Du Rulan's second son was born…" Xuyan's voice grew lower.

Yan Ge vaguely guessed what happened, and he frowned.

Huangfu Yuchen held his waist, commanding coldly, "Continue."

Xuyan hastened to speak, "The couple brought their child to me for a divination. I calculated the child's fate and unexpectedly discovered that he had potential for cultivation. But the divination also showed something strange—his fate was changeable. If no one interfered, he would live a smooth life, with harmony in his family and success in his career, but he wouldn't achieve greatness in cultivation. However, if someone intervened, he would experience an inexplicable encounter at the age of twenty-five. I couldn't foresee what the encounter was, but he would achieve great cultivation because of it. Moreover, his birth date and time are almost identical to mine. I thought at that moment, Isn't this an opportunity for me to take over his body…"

'Take over his body!' Huangfu Yuchen wished he could kill him on the spot.

"And then?" Yan Ge should have been angry, but his mood was unexpectedly calm.

Xuyan didn't dare to look at him and continued in a low voice, "Then, I told Du Rulan that this child would affect the fortune of the Yan family's enterprise. Du Rulan suggested that since the problem was so severe, they should just send the child away. Yan Jiaqiang also agreed with her idea. But I stopped them because the child's extraordinary encounter was linked to the daughter of a prestigious family. If they sent the child away, he might not have the chance to meet this daughter of a prestigious family…"

Yan Ge thought that the girl must be referring to Lu Yanyan. His crossing over was indeed connected to her.

"I wanted to tell them that sending the child away wouldn't work. The only solution was for both of them not to get close to the child." Xuyan stole a glance at Huangfu Yuchen. Sensing the murderous intent in his eyes, his heart trembled. "Second Young Master, your parents care more about the Yan family's enterprise than you. They were willing to get rid of you. In a way, I saved your life…"

Before he finished his sentence, he suddenly shot up and dashed towards the distance like lightning.

"Trying to escape? It's not that easy!" Huangfu Yuchen was faster than him, instantly catching up. He pursued like a shadow, and his palm surged with killing intent as it whistled through the air, creating waves of palm wind.

Xu Yan seemed to have anticipated his pursuit, and a dazzling black and red light burst forth from his body like a bomb exploding.

"Yuchen!" Yan Ge exclaimed in shock, moving to approach.

"Don't come over!" Huangfu Yuchen seemed to have eyes in the back of his head, immediately stopping him. He quickly leapt back, narrowed his eyes, and imbued formidable true qi into his palms before swiftly charging towards Xuyan.

"Boom!" A loud explosion rang out, as if a small atomic bomb had detonated in mid-air, making the entire sky as bright as day.

Both Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen searched the area with their spiritual senses carefully, yet they couldn't find any trace of Xuyan, nor could they sense even a trace of his presence.

Yan Ge asked uncertainly, "Did he die?"

Huangfu Yuchen shook his head. "The weapon he used just now has some tricks to it. Nevertheless, my attack was at full strength. Even if he's not dead, his cultivation will regress to zero. He won't pose much of a threat for the next seventy or eighty years."

Yan Ge nodded, not saying a word.

Huangfu Yuchen gently pulled him into his embrace, caressing his back and saying softly, "Baby, I hate Xuyan, but I'm also grateful to him. If he hadn't interfered with your fate, you wouldn't have come to Great Han, and I wouldn't have met you. Am I selfish and despicable for feeling this way?"

His arms around Yan Ge's waist grew tighter. Yan Ge's lips curled up. "Yes."

Huangfu Yuchen's heart sank. It felt as if an invisible hand had clenched around it, causing him intense pain. He abruptly released Yan Ge, cupping his face and harshly capturing his lips, passionately kissing and sucking.

Selfish or not? Despicable or not? He would never let go of Yan Ge in this lifetime!

Not sensing any resistance from his beloved, Huangfu Yuchen's eyes opened, meeting a pair of smiling, pitch-black eyes. There was the same concern in his gaze, mixed with a hint of indulgence and a touch of teasing.

Huangfu Yuchen's heart relaxed again. He opened his mouth, finally experiencing what it was like to feel like riding a roller coaster. He hugged his beloved back into his arms, playfully pinching his buttocks. "You did that on purpose, didn't you?"

Yan Ge's mood was unusually serene. Whether Du Rulan knew about the hidden killing formation within the jade or not didn't matter anymore. For the sake of the Yan family's enterprise, his parents were willing to suggest abandoning him. Perhaps he should be thankful that Xuyan didn't tell them that he would harm his parents. Otherwise, he probably wouldn't even have lived for another day. He had struggled so much in this world, but upon arriving in Great Han, he not only gained a caring lover, but also a warm family and friends. What more could he ask for?

He lifted his head and smiled at Huangfu Yuchen, his eyes clear and relaxed. "Let's go home."

"Alright." Huangfu Yuchen smiled in response.

The two of them walked away together, ignoring the police cars and ambulances rushing towards Mo'an Temple below. After all, they had disguised themselves, so it was unlikely that anyone could find them from above.

Back home, they had a refreshing shower and lay comfortably on the soft bed.

Yan Ge rolled over and laid on top of Huangfu Yuchen, using him as a pillow. He held his phone in his right hand, scrolling through Weibo.

Huangfu Yuchen held Yan Ge's back, gazing at him with a smile. His eyes were full of tenderness. At this moment, he just wanted to hold his precious one tightly and feel his presence. Their legs touched and brushed against each other occasionally.

"Baby, I'll begin dealing with the matters of the farm starting tomorrow."

Yan Ge placed his phone on the bedside table, turned his head, and smiled softly. "I'll help you."

"Okay. But didn't you say you wanted a long vacation?" Huangfu Yuchen's right foot's big toe and second toe playfully trapped Yan Ge's toes.

"Running a farm sounds more interesting." Yan Ge tilted his chin up, his gaze playful. "Besides, my wife looks so handsome. I need to keep an eye on him."

A low chuckle emerged from Huangfu Yuchen's throat. "Then make sure to watch me closely."

"Should we start by selecting a location?" Yan Ge inquired.

Huangfu Yuchen nodded. "Yes, but we should aim for something significant. Before that, I need to make a call to Wang Zhiyuan. Tomorrow, you should figure out a way to get more cash. We can use up the gold and silver treasures from Great Han. After all, we won't need them anymore."

"Alright." Yan Ge didn't ask further. He could tell Huangfu Yuchen was enthusiastic, and it was good to see him interested in something.

The next day, after breakfast, the two of them drove out energetically, each taking on a different task. Yan Ge went to exchange for cash, while Huangfu Yuchen made a phone call to Wang Zhiyuan.

"Mr. Huangfu, greetings."

Huangfu Yuchen got straight to the point. "I want to make a deal with you regarding cultivation resources. However, it's better if someone with decision-making power is present."

Wang Zhiyuan immediately sat up straight, speaking with formality, "Understood. I'll bring two others with me. Where should we meet?"

Huangfu Yuchen glanced out of the car window. "We can meet at the Wei Meiyuan restaurant on Yongwei Road."

"Alright, we'll be there in half an hour."

Wang Zhiyuan, Liu Xianglong, and Zhang Youze rushed to the restaurant. They were about to ask the waiter about Huangfu Yuchen's whereabouts when they saw a line made of condensed spiritual energy appear right before their eyes. Ordinary people couldn't see it. Following the spiritual line, the three arrived in front of a private room.

Wang Zhiyuan was about to knock on the door when it swung open by itself. The dignified and aloof man was seated by the table, reclining casually against his chair as he looked toward the door.

"Mr. Huangfu, sorry to keep you waiting," Wang Zhiyuan said.

'So, this was Huangfu Yuchen.' Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze sized him up and nodded in appreciation.

Huangfu Yuchen glanced at their dantians. Both were at the late stage of the Divine Transformation stage.

He didn't rise from his seat. "Gentlemen, please come in."

Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze followed the spiritual line and entered the room with Wang Zhiyuan, then closed the door behind them.

Wang Zhiyuan introduced, "Mr. Huangfu, allow me to make introductions. This is Mr. Liu Xianglong and Mr. Zhang Youze. Similar to my position, they manage the cultivators from the undercover division."

"Mr. Huangfu, it's nice to meet you." Liu Xianglong had a proper smile on his square face.

Zhang Youze was relatively quiet, merely nodding. However, his demeanor didn't come across as cold.

Huangfu Yuchen shook hands with them and said, "Nice to meet you. Please have a seat."

After Liu Xianglong sat down, he got straight to the point: "I wonder what Mr. Huangfu would like to discuss in terms of a trade?"

Huangfu Yuchen inwardly nodded. Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze didn't question his abilities, which indicated that they were both intelligent individuals.

Huangfu Yuchen lifted the tea and took a sip, immediately getting straight to the point, "Xiao Ge and I have intentions to establish a farm in the capital. The farm will be enclosed by a large-scale gathering spirit array. At that time, the vegetables, fruits, and crops grown inside will possess spiritual energy…"

Before he could finish speaking, Wang Zhiyuan, Liu Xianglong, and Zhang Youze had already stood up in astonishment, staring at Huangfu Yuchen in shock, subconsciously ready to question if it was true.

However, being elders, the three of them quickly regained their composure. They sat back down, and waited for Huangfu Yuchen to continue.

Huangfu Yuchen was quite satisfied with their reactions. "Moreover, within the gathering spirit array, the spiritual energy within the plants will gradually form a complete cycle, sustaining perpetual growth. My request to you is not to interfere with the farm in the name of the country. Within a maximum of four years, Xiao Ge and I will leave. By that time, the farm, including its resources, will be gifted to the nation, which is to say, to all of you."

The shock still lingered on the faces of Wang Zhiyuan, Liu Xianglong, and Zhang Youze.

Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze quickly calculated in their minds. Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge would leave after four years. But if they could get such a large resource now, the overall strength of their secret team would be greatly improved…

Huangfu Yuchen observed their expressions and lightly added, "Have you considered why I'm telling you about this? I could very well establish the farm first, and anyone who has ill intentions can be directly kicked out when the time comes."

Zhang Youze and Liu Xianglong were shaken, suddenly coming back to their senses and regretting their earlier confusion. Huangfu Yuchen's strength far surpassed Wang Zhiyuan's, and with the addition of Yan Ge, another individual with profound cultivation, these two individuals were even more formidable. Also, according to Wang Zhiyuan's deductions, the peculiar explosion at the Mo'an Temple last night was highly likely to be connected to these two people. Could they afford to offend such individuals? The reason Huangfu Yuchen was straightforward about this matter was simply to avoid annoying troubles. If they still dared to entertain unwarranted thoughts in this situation, not only would they offend Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge, but they might even push the two experts into opposition against them. The consequences of such actions were beyond what they could handle. One more enemy was not as good as one more friend.

Once they had a clear understanding, Zhang Youze and Liu Xianglong's expressions returned to normal, and they exchanged glances with Wang Zhiyuan.

Wang Zhiyuan nodded at the two, secretly relieved. Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze had come to their senses, which was good. He was genuinely worried they might make a hasty and incorrect decision. If they really offended Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen under these circumstances, it would cause immense damage to the cultivation world of Huaxia.

Zhang Youze asked, "After the farm is established, cultivators will surely flock to it, requesting to practice inside. How does Mr. Huangfu plan to handle that?"

Huangfu Yuchen responded with a blend of indifference and authority, "They can come in for a meal, but practicing inside is not allowed."

Wang Zhiyuan and the others exchanged a glance. This statement contained some room for interpretation, indicating that Huangfu Yuchen didn't intend to make things overly strict.

The four of them discussed a few more details, and the matter was settled.

After the main topic was discussed, Wang Zhiyuan enthusiastically said, "Mr. Huangfu, let's order some dishes first, then we can chat at our leisure."

"No need, I have other matters." Huangfu Yuchen stood up. "If there's something, I'll contact you."

Wang Zhiyuan and the others didn't want to insist, so they accompanied him to the door.

Watching Huangfu Yuchen's car leave, Wang Zhiyuan turned to Liu Xianglong and Zhang Youze, "Mr. Huangfu and that other gentleman are a couple. I've investigated the Yan family. The reason Mr. Huangfu wants to establish the farm is largely to stand up for Mr. Yan, so we don't need to provoke them. We just have to wait for four years."

"Zhiyuan, you can rest assured." Zhang Youze also came to understand. "Four years is four years."

Liu Xianglong also nodded. "This deal makes sense. We can wait."

As the three of them headed back, Zhang Youze looked at the night sky and said, "Four years might seem long, but in the cultivation world, it's really just a fleeting moment."

Liu Xianglong agreed, "Indeed, time passes quickly when you're focused on cultivation."

On the way home, Huangfu Yuchen made a trip to the supermarket and bought some fresh ingredients. After arriving home and not finding Yan Ge there, he called him, leaving his phone on the countertop before starting to prepare and wash the vegetables.

The call was quickly connected, and Yan Ge' cheerful voice came through, "Yuchen, are you done with your tasks?"

"Yeah, I just got home. How's it going on your end?"

"The quantity is too much, the fastest this can be finished is the day after tomorrow. I'm about to head back."

"There's no rush, a few more days won't hurt. We can use the time to find a suitable location." Huangfu Yuchen put the washed cucumbers onto a plate and started washing some greens.

"Are you washing vegetables?" Yan Ge asked with a mischievous tone in his voice.

Huangfu Yuchen could imagine the playful expression on his face as he spoke, and a smile tugged at his lips. "They're all your favorite dishes."

"I'll be there in half an hour."

"Drive safely."

After that, the two of them spent two days touring the entire capital, eventually settling on Fengshan. Almost all the developable areas in the capital had already been developed, and even the unused plots of land had owners. Fengshan was Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen's only viable choice.

However, the government's attitude toward Fengshan was unclear. Huangfu Yuchen called Wang Zhiyuan again, promising not to damage the precious tree species on the mountain and ensure no harm would come to the wildlife.

With that assurance, Wang Zhiyuan readily agreed to handle this matter. The spirit gathering array would benefit the forest on Fengshan.

In less than an hour, Wang Zhiyuan called back, confirming that the rights to use Fengshan would belong to Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen for the next ten years. He would send over the relevant documents and certificates as soon as possible.

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen spent half a day flying over Fengshan to gain a better understanding of its terrain. Afterwards, they explored the mountain thoroughly, ensuring that all the precious trees and animals moved into Yan Ge's system backpack. They subsequently planned the entire farm and even enlisted a professional planner to draw up the design for Fengshan Farm.

Three days later, they contacted three renowned construction companies in the capital to begin the construction of the farm, or rather, the transformation of the mountain.

After finishing these tasks, they temporarily resided in Yan Ge's system backpack. After the Male Consort System upgraded to 100% capability, the backpack became an independent small world, teeming with vitality, abundant spiritual energy, harmonious landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna. The three-story ancient-style building on the island in the middle of the lake became their favorite place to stay. The wildlife transferred from Fengshan roamed around joyfully, clearly enjoying the environment. One remarkable feature of this space was the spring just behind the small building. The spring water not only refreshed the mind but also helped stabilize and enhance cultivation. Furthermore, it had an excellent nourishing effect on the forest. Huangfu Yuchen dared to transplant trees from Fengshan because he knew the spring water in their space would sustain them.

They spent much of their time cultivating within the system, and every three to five days, they would venture out to check the progress of the construction.

Wang Zhiyuan, Liu Xianglong, and Zhang Youze also attached importance to the farm. They arranged supervisors to oversee the construction to prevent any shortcuts, which relieved the burden on Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen.

With more people, there was more strength. Two months later, Fengshan Farm was completed.

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen began hiring a large number of workers who would later be responsible for cultivating vegetables, managing the orchard, growing crops, maintaining flower gardens, tending the forests, and more. Later, they transplanted seasonal flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees from various places. For example, grapes, watermelons, and peaches. While normally transplanted trees had a hard time surviving, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen's use of the spring water to irrigate the plants ensured that all the flora thrived and bloomed overnight.

Next, they spent over two thousand low grade spirit stones to set up a gathering spirit array. They chose a special formation that combined both spiritual accumulation and defensive properties. This array could accumulate spiritual energy while shielding against external attacks. If anyone wanted to enter the farm, they could only use the main entrance.

Furthermore, the concentration of spiritual energy in different areas of the farm varied. Ordinary people wouldn't be able to tolerate too strong spiritual energy. Consuming the vegetables and fruits grown in these areas would be sufficient for them.

With everything arranged, Yan Ge discreetly transferred the animals and plants back from the space to Fengshan Farm, letting them return to their original habitat. Although there were more people on Fengshan now, the animals couldn't bear to leave the abundant spiritual energy, so they chose to stay.

The farm would establish strict rules. It wouldn't allow theft of trees or harm to the wildlife. Moreover, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen specifically went into the primeval forests and captured harmless wild animals, using spiritual energy to help refine their meridians. To a certain extent, this increased their spiritual nature and ensured they wouldn't harm humans. Additionally, they attached small protective spirit stones to the animals' necks, guaranteeing they wouldn't be harmed by anyone with malicious intent.

Huangfu Yuchen intentionally didn't construct a parking lot but instead arranged for a dedicated public transit line from the city to Fengshan. If people wanted to visit the farm, they could only use the public bus.

Half a month later, Fengshan Farm opened quietly without any promotion.

Yan Ge invited Xu Kai, Yang Zhou, and other old friends. Xu Kai's group was full of enthusiasm, and they brought along many family and friends. They expressed a little annoyance, saying that Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge hadn't informed them in advance about the farm's establishment, so they didn't have the chance to help, and Yan Ge was made to drink several glasses of alcohol as punishment.

Huangfu Yuchen also invited Wang Zhiyuan and others, as well as a few businessmen he had met during the farm's establishment.

Wang Zhiyuan and the others had special status, so Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen arranged two courtyards for them in the farm—one for the leader to stay and another for the members of the covert operations team to practice.

Overall, on the day of the grand opening, the number of visitors wasn't substantial.

However, Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge weren't concerned. They sat at a table with Xu Kai and others and enjoyed the evening together.

After taking a bite of vegetables, Lu Hanya's eyes lit up. She took a few more bites and exclaimed, "This is amazing! I never thought cabbage could be cooked so deliciously. I've never had such tasty cabbage before."

Xu Kai watched his son m enjoying the food and laughed, "Looks like we need to come here to eat more often. You see, my son never eats vegetables, but today, he's just grabbing them."

Yang Zhou also couldn't stop eating. "Huangfu, Yan Ge, don't worry, we'll promote this place when we get back. I guarantee that tomorrow it will be packed. By the way, are the animals in the forest really not harmful? Tomorrow is Saturday, and I'm planning to bring my nephew to have some fun."

"Rest assured," Yan Ge assured. "As long as you don't provoke them, they won't harm anyone."

Huangfu Yuchen added, "I've prepared some fruits for you when you leave, feel free to take a basket."

"No charges today?" He Xin joked.

Huangfu Yuchen spoke generously, "No. Later, I'll give each of you a VIP card, and you'll receive an 20% discount whenever you dine here."

"That's great then!" Xu Kai was the first to approve. With his large business, he often had to entertain guests for meals. Having a VIP card would make it much more convenient to bring guests here in the future.

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen spent some time eating with them before heading to other courtyards to gauge the guests' reactions.

Everyone who had tasted the fruits and vegetables from the farm couldn't help but praise them, stating that this was what true green vegetables should taste like.

From then on, the reputation of Feng Farm gradually began to spread.

In just three days, the farm appeared on television and in newspapers. As the owner of Fengshan Farm, Yan Ge became well-known among the public.

Upon hearing that Yan Ge had established such a vibrant farm and that one of its special wines was the same kind he had once smelled in the Emerald Villa, Yan Jiaqiang was so furious that he nearly choked.

Du Rulan was even more infuriated, smashing her favorite bottle of perfume in anger.

"Husband, I heard that Fengshan Farm doesn't have a parking lot. Are we really going to squeeze into a bus with so many people?" Du Rulan picked up her handbag from the sofa and walked over to Yan Jiaqiang, linking her arm with his, her tone tinged with dissatisfaction.

Yan Jiaqiang didn't agree. "Let's take the car. I'm his father, could anyone dare to tow my car away?"

He went to the garage, fetched the car, and the two of them headed to Fengshan Farm.

Sitting in the car, Du Rulan grew more and more frustrated. Her delicate eyebrows furrowed tightly, adding a touch of sharpness to her already fierce appearance. In just a few days, most of the guests from Emerald Villa had switched to Fengshan Farm. Whenever she went out shopping with some other ladies, they couldn't stop praising Fengshan Farm. Could she not feel annoyed? Moreover, there were many people waiting to see a joke about their Yan family: 'Father has a villa, his son established a farm, and he didn't even invite his father on the opening day. Wasn't this a father-son showdown?'

Although Yan Jiaqiang was also frustrated, he managed to control his temper.

The car drove towards the outskirts, and onto Difeng Road which led to Fengshan. Yan Jiaqiang had heard that Difeng Road was built by Fengshan Farm's co-owner, Huangfu Yuchen, and named by him as well.

Yan Jiaqiang's feelings towards Huangfu Yuchen were quite complex. He even wondered if he would have objected to Haungfu Yuchen and Yan Ge's relationship if Fengshan Farm had been established before he knew about the relationship..

As they continued driving towards Fengshan Farm, Yan Jiaqiang saw three buses labelled "520 Nanyuan Intersection – Fengshan Farm". Besides their car, there were two other private cars driving not far ahead, and not a single taxi was in sight.

Initially, many guests who used to visit farms for leisure didn't pay much attention to the absence of a parking lot at Fengshan Farm. They used taxis to come, only to find out at the entrance that taxis were not allowed to pass the gate. So, they had to walk about three or four miles to reach the farm. Later, those who wanted to visit the farm grew wiser, giving up on driving or taking taxis and choosing to take the bus instead. The buses were air-conditioned, with 36 fixed seats, and aside from children under 1.4 metres tall, they didn't allow sharing seats. The buses were kept clean and tidy, and were not necessarily less comfortable than private cars.

Yan Jiaqiang had a vague sense that something was off, but thinking that he was Yan Ge's father, he would be able to enter. Yan Ge wouldn't deny him that much face. So, the car continued towards Fengshan Farm.

After driving for another two miles, Du Rulan noticed a checkpoint ahead. Next to the checkpoint, there was a side road branching off Difeng Road that led back towards the capital city. The two private cars they had seen were parked by the roadside at this moment.

"Honey, look quickly."

Yan Jiaqiang glanced over. The staff at the checkpoint only allowed the buses to pass while not permitting the private cars. The owners of the private cars got out and had a conversation with the staff, but the staff still didn't allow their cars to enter.

The owners of the two private cars had to turn around and take the other road back.

"Don't worry, dear, we can go in."

The car reached the checkpoint. Xiao Liao, the staff member dressed in a white uniform, glanced at the sedan, inwardly amused by yet another self-important individual. Just now, someone claimed to be the chairman of a certain group, and now, who knows what kind of background this person has?

She quickly took a sip of water. It had been quite manageable these few days, but during the initial days, she had to deal with hundreds of private car owners every day who wanted to drive their cars into the farm. The two bosses were considerate of the staff and had placed a box of bottled water in the duty booth.

Yan Jiaqiang lowered the car window and politely said, "Miss, hello. I'm Mr. Yan's father. Please raise the prohibition bar and let us in."

"I'm sorry, sir, please look at the notice." Xiao Liao pointed to the large-font notice posted on the duty booth.

Yan Jiaqiang's brows furrowed, and he ordered, "Call your boss."

Xiao Liao maintained her polite smile, "I'm sorry, sir. Our boss has stated that, unless there's prior notice, no vehicles other than buses are allowed in. Please understand our work. Alternatively, would you like to call our boss personally?"

Yan Jiaqiang's face reddened slightly. Even though there weren't many people around, he still felt like he was being laughed at.

Du Rulan heard the whole conversation from inside the car, and her face became gloomy. She quickly dialled Yan Ge's phone number.

"Yan Ge, your dad and I are stuck at the checkpoint and can't get in."

"You came by car, right?"

"Yes," Du Rulan replied nonchalantly, "Tell the staff to let us in quickly."

"The farm's rules are like this, and we can't make exceptions. Otherwise, turn around at the checkpoint and go back about two or three miles. There's an open space there for parking. I'm quite busy right now, so I'll hang up first."

Before Du Rulan could say anything else, the call was cut off.

Yan Jiaqiang glanced at her rigid expression, and his flushed face turned livid. He considered turning back, but then thought of today's purpose for coming. He swallowed his anger and took the road branching off.

He noticed Du Rulan's silence in the car but didn't say anything.

Du Rulan was feeling anxious. Yan Ge hadn't even called her "mom," and the tone he used while speaking to her was as if he were talking to a stranger. What was going on?

The car soon arrived at the open space Yan Ge had mentioned. Yan Jiaqiang's brows furrowed so tightly that he could have crushed a fly. The terrain was uneven, with many potholes, scattered with fragments of tiles and sand—definitely unsuitable for parking. Apart from their car, there was only one vehicle parked there.

Yan Jiaqiang immediately felt humiliated, as if Yan Ge had slapped him hard across the face. He, who considered himself Yan Ge's father, had expected to enjoy some prestige by driving in with everyone's admiring gazes, but Yan Ge had simply disregarded him.

Stepping out of the car, he slammed the car door harshly. "Get out! What are you still sitting there for?"

With that, he no longer paid attention to Du Rulan and walked away on his own.

"Husband, wait for me!" Du Rulan hastily opened the car door and got out. Her high-heeled shoe heel landed on a pebble, causing her to slip and almost stumble. A hint of impatience flashed in Yan Jiaqiang's eyes as he walked back and helped her up.

Both of them walked towards the villa, sweating profusely. A bus leisurely passed by them, emanating cheerful laughter from inside.

Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan felt as if those people were mocking them, and their faces burned.

"That ungrateful child! Is this how he repays us for raising him?" Du Rulan's face darkened as she quickened her pace, eager to see Yan Ge and give him a good lesson.

Yan Jiaqiang paid her no attention.

After walking for nearly half an hour, they finally caught sight of the farm. Out of the corner of their eyes, they noticed there was actually a parking lot on the side. However, it was filled with buses, and there was another small parking lot with a sign that read "Employee Parking Only."

As they approached, they observed the scene in front of them, and both of them were taken aback.

At the entrance of the farm was a heart-shaped lake, its water crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky. The water sparkled like a colorful blue gemstone, revealing colorful pebbles and water plants at the bottom. Fish of various colors swam around. A sturdy wooden arch bridge connected both sides of the lake. The railings of the bridge were entwined with lush green vines adorned with purple blossoms.

Along the lake, two wide roads paved with cobblestones led to the farm's main entrance.

The farm's main gate was also a wooden fence gate. The rustic brown color juxtaposed with the lively green trees, creating a naturally refreshing atmosphere.

One side gate of the gate was open, with a ticket booth next to it. Children under 1.4 meters received a half-price admission, while others paid the full price of 299 yuan. The ticket was for admission; other expenses had to be paid separately.

This time, Yan Jiaqiang didn't mention his identity. He silently took out several hundred-yuan bills, got the tickets, and entered directly.

On the left wall of the entrance, a large screen played a short video introducing the farm, and on the right, there was a layout diagram of the entire farm, marking out the orchards, vegetable gardens, fish ponds, wheat fields, restaurants, shops, guesthouses, leisure areas, and restricted zones.

Du Rulan quickly scanned the area and asked, "Where would Yan Ge be? Let's go find him directly."

However, Yan Jiaqiang turned his head and walked towards the orchard.

Du Rulan could only follow, forcing herself not to mind Yan Jiaqiang's indifference. She pondered privately how much longer it would take for the jade on Yan Ge to take effect.

Cameras were installed around the orchard to prevent wanton waste and intentional destruction. Looking around, each fruit tree bore heavy fruit—apples, pears, oranges, dates, and more—all densely clustered and highly appealing. In the orchard, many visitors brought their children, holding delicate baskets and enthusiastically picking various sweet fruits. At the entrance, staff members were responsible for weighing and settling payments.

Built against the mountain, the estate made skillful use of the Fengshan Mountain's terrain. Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan had only toured half of it and were already quite tired.

It was already noon, so the two went to the restaurant and ordered several dishes.

Yan Jiaqiang tasted each dish and furrowed his brows once again.

Du Rulan's expression also turned more serious. The food at this farm was much better than the cuisine at their Emerald Villa. Even simple stir-fried vegetables were satisfying. If this continued, there was no doubt that the Emerald Villa would inevitably go bankrupt.

"Husband, I think we should talk to Yan Ge as soon as possible."

This time, Yan Jiaqiang didn't object. "We'll give him a call after we finish eating."

At this moment, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were on the Star-Picking Tower, basking in the sun and sipping wine. The winter sunlight bathed them, providing utmost comfort. The Star-Picking Tower was built on the highest point of Fengshan, with six or seven floors, offering a panoramic view of the entire farm. However, the Star-Picking Tower was a viewing place specially built for Yan Ge by Huangfu Yuchen, and it wasn't open to the public. So, it didn't have an official name; the employees and visitors just referred to it as "high tower."

"They must be here to discuss the farm," Huangfu Yuchen said as he stuffed a grape into Yan Ge's mouth. It was now November, and grapes were long gone, but these were picked from Yan Ge's space—they were plump and enticingly purple.

Yan Ge had already made up his mind. "Let's talk, it's better to clear things up at once."

"Alright." Huangfu Yuchen kissed his head. However he narrowed his eyes in thought, both Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan were driven by their self-interest. Would they easily let Yan Ge off the hook? Unlikely. So, his retaliation should continue.

The two lingered on the high tower for a while, and Yan Jiaqiang called Yan Ge's phone.

"Where are you now?"

"Go to Private Room No. 1 at Dongnuan Pavilion. Yu Chen and I will be there soon." Yan Ge stood up after speaking and stretched lazily.

"I'm here for you." Huangfu Yuchen wrapped his arms around Yan Ge from behind, kissing his cheek. "Let's go."

The two took the sightseeing elevator downstairs, heading towards Dongnuan Pavilion shoulder to shoulder. A small monkey was eating an apple on an apple tree and with a light leap, it landed on Yan Ge's shoulder, turned its head to look at him, and playfully scratched its head as it made chattering sounds…

Yan Ge patted its head and casually placed it back on the tree.

Passing tourists looked on with surprise but the farm's staff in the orchard didn't find it unusual. Having spent some time on the farm, they had already noticed that the two bosses had a strong connection with animals, and the animals on the farm liked to be around them. The only difference was that the second boss, Mr. Huangfu, appeared stern, so timid animals wouldn't dare approach him.

Huangfu Yuchen plucked a bright red apple from the tree and handed it to Yan Ge.

Yan Ge didn't eat it; he held it and played with it in his hands.

The two reached Dongnuan Pavilion at a leisurely pace.

Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan watched them approach coldly.

Yan Jiaqiang calmly surveyed Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen. To be honest, his second son was good in all aspects, be it appearance or personality. However, there was that "fate affecting the fortune of the Yan family business." For the greater good, he had to let go of his second son. Often, he watched him stumble and fall without extending a hand to help, but his second son had a good nature and was always smiling, with a sense of tolerance in his eyes. Now, Yan Ge has changed. Though he still wore a smile most of the time, there was an added edge to his demeanor. Perhaps his patience and tolerance had finally run dry, causing him to become somewhat distant from his parents. He seemed to have let go of something, no longer holding any expectations. This version of Yan Ge was somewhat difficult for Yan Jiaqiang to comprehend.

His gaze then shifted to Huangfu Yuchen. This man was even more enigmatic, like a pond of water, unfathomable. He was like a sword yet to be unsheathed, but no scabbard could contain his sharpness. How could a person who established such a massive farm in just three short months be an ordinary individual?

Du Rulan stared intently at Yan Ge, her face showing displeasure and her eyes were filled with anger that seemed ready to erupt. After a moment, she shot a resentful look at Huangfu Yuchen. If it weren't for him, Yan Ge wouldn't treat them like this.

Yan Ge seemed oblivious to their scrutiny and walked in naturally.

Huangfu Yuchen closed the door to the private room and cast a soundproofing spell. He walked over to Yan Ge and sat down.

"Why did you suddenly come to find me?" Yan Ge poured tea into four cups, his tone very polite.

Yan Jiaqiang spoke slowly and deliberately, "Yan Ge, you must be aware of the existence of Emerald Villa. You are humiliating your father by establishing this farm. What were you thinking?"

"Father?" Yan Ge looked into his eyes and asked in a calm tone, "Do you still consider yourselves my father and mother? Do you treat me as your son?"

Yan Jiaqiang frowned. "What do you mean by that?"

Du Rulan stood up, her voice agitated. "Don't treat you as a son? What else do you want? Do we need to work like slaves for you before you consider us your parents?"

Yan Ge didn't even look at her, still gazing at Yan Jiaqiang as he replied evenly, "I know about the incident with the fortune teller you sought."

Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan's faces changed simultaneously. They subconsciously exchanged a glance and then looked at Yan Ge. When they met his clear gaze, they felt a bit guilty and looked away.

Huangfu Yuchen chimed in, not mincing words. "Perhaps Xiao Ge and I should be grateful that the fortune teller didn't say he would harm you, otherwise, who knows if Xiao Ge would even exist now?" This was something Yan Ge couldn't say, but Huangfu Yuchen could.

Du Rulan's face turned pale, and her volume rose as she stared at Huangfu Yuchen. She spoke as if she was addressing her husband's murderer. "What are you saying? Are you implying that Jiaqiang and I would harm our own son?"

"I never said that." Huangfu Yuchen looked at her with a half-smile, his gaze as if he were looking at a clown.

Only now did Yan Ge's gaze fall on Du Rulan. "Do you know that the jade you got from the fortune teller holds a deadly array? And that I would die if I wore it for a full forty-nine days?"

Du Rulan was taken aback and blurted out, "Impossible! It's just suppressing malevolent energy—"

Yan Jiaqiang turned his head abruptly, looking at her. "Suppressing malevolent energy?"

"Suppressing malevolent energy?" Yan Ge chuckled lightly. "That's no longer important. What's important is that from now on, I won't bother you, and you don't need to come find me."

"Yan Ge!" Yan Jiaqiang's voice grew stern.

Huangfu Yuchen smiled and calmly said, "Mr. Yan, there's no need to pay attention to Xiao Ge, right? Don't you have three sons?"

Du Rulan was surprised and fell silent.

She didn't catch the implied meaning in Huangfu Yuchen's words, she just suddenly thought that it wouldn't be bad to sever the parent-child relationship with Yan Ge. She could use his being with another man as an excuse. "You have a beautiful fantasy. We raised you, yet this is how you repay us? If you don't want us to come looking for you, you should immediately transfer ownership of the farm to your father."

Yan Ge laughed heartily, "Madam Yan, have you misunderstood something? I'm the big boss outwardly for the farm, but it was Yuchen who funded it. Have you forgotten that my properties and company were given to you? Where would I get so much money to run a farm?"

Du Rulan didn't listen to his explanation at all. She only knew that saving the Emerald Villa was the most important thing now. "I don't care. If you can't do it, we'll let the outside world understand how unfilial you are!"

Yan Ge laughed even harder, nearly doubling over.

Yan Jiaqiang also couldn't help but look at Du Rulan in disbelief, thinking she had gone mad.

Huangfu Yuchen smiled, calculating how to give Du Rulan a lesson.

After laughing enough, Yan Ge spoke. "As you wish. Yuchen and I aren't short on money. It doesn't even matter if the farm doesn't have a single guest. It would be far quieter for us."

Du Rulan was momentarily stunned, at a loss for words.

Huangfu Yuchen added a jab, "In fact, I set up this farm for Xiao Ge to play with."

"You, you're crazy!" Du Rulan stared at Huangfu Yuchen in disbelief. The farm she envied was nothing more than a plaything Huangfu Yuchen gave Yan Ge! It left her feeling both angry and pained.

Yan Jiaqiang remained silent for a while before speaking again. "Yan Ge, must it come to this?"

Yan Ge smiled faintly and without even looking at him, said: "You raised me; that's a fact. I will save your lives if you and Madam Du ever fall into a life-threatening situation."

Du Rulan scornfully retorted, "That's easy for you to say! Even if we were really in danger, what could you possibly do?"

Yan Jiaqiang's head throbbed from her sharp voice. He stood up and looked at Yan Ge with a complex expression for a while. "I admit I've wronged you, I don't deny that. But if given a second chance, I'm afraid I'd make the same choice."

Yan Ge smiled indifferently. "Is that so?"

"I'm leaving." Yan Jiaqiang sighed, opened the door and left the room.

Du Rulan was completely baffled by his actions. Weren't they here to confront and reprimand Yan Ge? What is going on now?

She quickly chased after him, "Husband! Husband!"

Huangfu Yuchen mocked as he watched their departing figures. "Quite the pair of oddballs."

Yan Ge burst into laughter and patted his shoulder. "Yo! You've got an extensive vocabulary!"

"It's all thanks to your excellent tutoring." Huangfu Yuchen stood up, hugging Yan Ge. "Come on, let's go to the vegetable garden and pick some vegetables for hot pot tonight."

Yan Ge's eyes lit up. "Okay, go grab a basket."

The two of them strolled to the vegetable garden, where spinach, mustard greens, bok choy, and other vegetables were thriving.

The staff in the garden saw them from afar, and were not surprised by their presence. These two bosses were the most unique ones they had seen and heard of. Neither employed an overbearing demeanor, which made working under them a relaxed experience.

Ji Chang hurriedly walked over from a distant path.

"Mr. Yan, Mr. Huangfu."

"What's the matter?" Yan Ge knocked the dirt off the root of a bok choy before placing it into the basket.

Ji Chang glanced at the mud on their pant legs and shoe soles. Even though it wasn't the first time he had seen this, he still felt somewhat unaccustomed to it. After a moment, he answered, "A few 'important figures' have arrived outside the estate, and it seems they are not friendly."

"Oh?" Yan Ge raised an eyebrow. The so-called "important figures" referred to cultivators, while the estate's true esteemed guests were referred to as "VIPs."

Huangfu Yuchen, who was picking spinach beside them, didn't even bat an eye. Yan Ge liked spinach, so he had to pick more, or there wouldn't be enough to eat.

Yan Ge's spiritual sense swept through the estate's entrance, then he bent down and pulled out a radish with a grin, "Let's not disturb them for now. Maybe they're just trying to appear fierce? Mr. Ji, don't judge a book by its cover."

Ji Chang didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Mr. Yan's character was still as amusing as ever. He hadn't felt that way when they had first met. However, Yan Ge's words put his mind at ease. Rolling up his sleeves, he said, "Let me help."

Huangfu Yuchen shot him a sidelong glance and said coldly, "We husbands are here for our own amusement. What are you joining in for?"

"Um…" Ji Chang awkwardly scratched his head. "Then I won't disturb you."

With that, he quickly walked away.

Yan Ge chuckled inwardly. Once Ji Chang was far enough, he turned to Huangfu Yuchen and said, "Tone it down a bit. Don't accidentally make him bent."

"I'm just kindly reminding him, so he doesn't make bigger mistakes in the future." Huangfu Yuchen justified himself.

Yan Ge tore off a cabbage leaf and playfully slapped it onto Huangfu Yuchen's face. He then looked at the two full baskets they had gathered. "These should be enough, right?"

"Let's go." Huangfu Yuchen picked up both baskets. "We'll head back through the orchard and pick some fruit on the way."

After picking the fruits, the two returned to their residence on the mountain's small courtyard. As they prepared hot pot, they used their spiritual sense to check on the three cultivators who had entered the farm earlier—

After the three finished eating, they requested to stay in the hotel for a month. Upon being rejected, their expressions turned sour and their attitudes became domineering.

Yan Ge picked up three apples he had just plucked and inconspicuously threw them.

The three were hit by the apples and were stunned for a moment. They looked around, but did not find anything. Their expressions immediately changed as they seemed to think of something.

The hotel manager was also puzzled but didn't think too much of it. He assumed someone was playing a prank.

Seeing the hostility in the eyes of the three, Yan Ge nodded. "Great timing—chickens have come to our doorstep. What better way to deter monkeys than to kill a chicken?"

Huangfu Yuchen stirred the boiling hot pot with a ladle. "Baby, will you go, or should I?"

Yan Ge glanced into the pot. "I'll go. It'll be time to eat by the time I'm back. Also, add some more noodles for me." Before the words even settled, he had disappeared.

These three were relatively young, around thirty years old each. The one leading was named Wu Meng, towering in stature and built like a wall. People who knew him were aware that he was stubborn and had a fiery temper. Once he made up his mind about something, whether right or wrong, he wouldn't give up without being taught a lesson.

Standing on his left was Li Yue, also an unreasonable person. If it weren't for his exceptional talent, he wouldn't have been accepted as a disciple by the Mimeng Mountain sect leader.

The third was Xiong Wei. He was very handsome, with refined eyebrows and a high nose bridge. However, his pair of narrow and sharp phoenix eyes gleamed with a sinister light, as if constantly scheming something, making it difficult for people to feel favorable towards him.

These three were disciples of the Mimeng Mountain Sect. They happened to pass by the imperial capital and sensed the fluctuations of spiritual energy here.

Mimeng Mountain wasn't a small sect. Their foundational cultivation techniques were ranked among the top five in various cultivation sects, big and small, across the country. However, due to the scarcity of spiritual energy on Earth, even with good techniques, lacking spiritual energy was akin to possessing a peerless weapon without the secret techniques to use it. So, just like other sects, Mimeng Mountain was barely hanging on. But today, they stumbled upon this sacred place. For cultivators, it was a rare opportunity that they wouldn't just let slip by.

These were fellow disciples. Xiong Wei ranked the lowest, yet he was the most intelligent and held a leading position among them. He was cautious and discerning. He was certain that whoever openly displays such abundant spiritual energy was not a simple character. Therefore, the intention to stay at the farm for a month was a ruse. The true purpose was to gauge the estate's owner. Of course, if they could genuinely stay here for a month, that would be even better.

However, the three apples which appeared out of nowhere left him feeling uneasy. This made him even more certain that the owner of the estate was not an ordinary person. He didn't dare to act recklessly, but he also wasn't willing to leave empty-handed.

His gaze slid over Wu Meng and Li Yue. He hesitated for a moment, then he muttered under his breath, "Wu Meng, Li Yue, this estate is no simple place. I think we'd better leave first and then make plans. Otherwise, I'm afraid we'll get in but not be able to get out."

Wu Meng turned his head, looking at him with surprise and a touch of disdain. "Xiong Wei, you're good at many things, but your courage is lacking. You're about to get a golden opportunity, but you're willing to let it slip away? I won't. Think about it, the spiritual energy here is so abundant. If we could stay here for a month, our cultivation would improve significantly!"

A fervent enthusiasm gleamed in his eyes.

"I—," Xiong Wei's face displayed a hint of embarrassment, "It's not that I lack courage, it's just that I'm concerned, you know?"

Li Yue shook his head and his gaze toward Xiong Wei also held a hint of disdain. He arrogantly stated, "What are you afraid of with me around? Rest assured, I'll have your back."

Left with no other option, Xiong Wei decided to keep quiet. As Wu Meng and Li Yue turned their heads away, a flash of mockery flickered in his eyes: 'Two fools.'

Wu Meng strode purposefully to the counter, and slammed his thick and meaty palm, instantly causing the pen holder on the counter to jump up. He shouted loudly, "Call your boss out! How can you run a hotel and not allow people to stay?"

The manager had received instructions from the boss before the official working hours: if there were guests who wanted to stay long-term at the estate and he couldn't handle it, he should direct them to Division Two

Following the manager's instructions, Wu Meng and his brothers went to the Division Two where Yan Ge had been waiting for them there.

Without waiting for the three to speak, he directly said, "You have my apologies. You're welcome to dine at the farm, but it's not permitted for guests to stay here long-term."

Upon seeing him, Wu Meng and the other two knew that this person was definitely also a cultivator, although they couldn't discern his level of cultivation.

Xiong Wei had an uneasy feeling in his heart and stood at the back, not saying a word.

As the favorite disciple of Mimeng Mountain's sect leader He Chuanfeng, Li Yue stepped forward confidently, "Fellow cultivator, we are disciples of Mimeng Mountain. I am Li Yue, a closed-door disciple under Sect Leader He Chuanfeng. These two are my senior brothers, Xiong Wei and Wu Meng. Since you're also a fellow cultivator, how about we find a way to make things more convenient?"

Yan Ge shook his head. "These are the rules."

They were surrounded by spiritual energy but couldn't stay here for an extended period. It felt like having a table full of delicious food but being unable to eat much due to mouth ulcers. Wu Meng's frustration was instantly ignited, and he asked in a harsh tone, "What if we insist on staying here?"

Yan Ge chuckled lightly, maintaining his relaxed posture, leaning against the back of his chair, legs crossed on the desk. "Well, then it depends on whether you have the ability to do so."

"Alright! I'll learn from you!" Wu Meng raised his fist and swung it towards Yan Ge's face.

Li Yue didn't stop him; he believed that his skills were the best and should be saved as a trump card for later. When Wu Meng couldn't handle it any longer, he would take the stage.

Xiong Wei stood even farther back, as if he wasn't with Wu Meng and Li Yue. He fixed his gaze on Yan Ge, curious about his true strength.

Wu Meng's punch indeed carried substantial force. Yan Ge felt a gust of wind rushing towards his face. He pressed his right palm against the armrest of his chair, propelling himself into the air and landing securely on the sofa diagonally opposite the desk.

Wu Meng's punch struck the desk, and with a "bang", the desk shattered into pieces.

"Desk: 3999, Shipping: 100," Yan Ge smiled gently, raised his wrist to check the time, and murmured to himself, "It's almost ten o'clock. The hotpot should be ready by now. If the noodles are cooked too soft, they won't be easy to pick up."

Wu Meng's full-force palm strike had missed its target. Just as he was still in shock, he heard Yan Ge's words and his rugged face turned red. With a cold snort, he spun around like a frog, leaping up and throwing two punches—one from the left and one from the right—forming a half-circle siege to attack Yan Ge.

Yan Ge remained seated on the sofa. He lifted his legs and used them to fend off Wu Meng's fists. Both legs were kept at approximately forty-five-degree angles, then they suddenly straightened.

In an instant, Wu Meng's fists experienced a powerful impact. His body shook violently, and he fell several steps back, the joints of his elbows emitting a dislocating "crack." There was a chair behind him, and he stumbled over it, falling to the ground in a state of disarray.

He looked at Yan Ge, who was sitting on the sofa with a smile and crossed legs, and stood up in silence to stand off to the side. He had the determination to follow through with whatever he started, but if he encountered a painful lesson in the process, he would immediately give up.

Li Yue inwardly cursed him as a coward. He walked over to Yan Ge with a cold expression, "Let me learn from you!"

He was the closed-door disciple of He Chuanfeng, the Sect Leader of Mimeng Mountain. Yan Ge glanced at him briefly. Generally, those who were accepted as closed-door disciples were either exceptionally talented or favored by the master. Judging by Li Yue's proud and somewhat unlikable appearance, Yan Jiaqiang believed it was likely the former.

The third person hadn't spoken all this while and seemed quite calculating.

Since they might interact with the people from Mimeng Mountain in the future, it wouldn't hurt to take this opportunity to learn about their cultivation techniques. With this thought in mind, Yan Ge changed his initial plan of a quick and decisive victory. He stood up and said, "Okay."

Li Yue took Yan Ge's reaction as a sign that he wasn't underestimating him. Smirking triumphantly, he took something out of his chest pouch and chanted an incantation. The object gradually enlarged, revealing a fine iron rod with six thin spikes resembling barbs, spreading out like a fan when unfolded.

Without hesitation, Li Yue swung his weapon at Yan Ge, attempting to hook his shoulder. If successful, he could pull forcefully, tearing off a chunk of flesh.

Yan Ge didn't draw his sword; instead, he dodged to the side, picking up a broom leaning against the wall and using it to block Li Yue's weapon. Although he and Haungfu Yuchen had higher cultivation levels, their knowledge on cultivation techniques was limited. Since the incident involving the strange jade, they had decided not to directly touch others' weapons, as who knew what hidden mechanisms might be inside?

Wu Meng and Xiong Wei both looked at Yan Ge with complicated expressions, their thoughts difficult to decipher.

Li Yue glared at the broom, feeling insulted. Suddenly, he released his grip, and with both hands, he performed intricate hand signs resembling playing the piano, with quick and flexible movements.

Yan Ge began to view him differently. Li Yue was using two different hand signs simultaneously, multitasking as if they were two different thoughts. Not many people could achieve such a feat.

The weapon controlled by Li Yue suddenly split into two parts, attacking Yan Ge from the front and back simultaneously. It swiftly aimed at his chest and then lunged for his neck, moving so fast it left afterimages.

Yan Ge lifted the broom, moving his hands to repeatedly fend off the hooks.

Li Yue felt proud, and his fingers moved again. The hooks on the weapon suddenly straightened, and fine silver needles were immediately shot out from them.

Six slender silver lights silently flashed by, moving as if they were about to strike Yan Ge.

Li Yue's grin grew wider, but then he saw Yan Ge casually rotate the broom held between his thumb and index finger, not forgetting to give him a slight smile.

Just as Li Yue was wondering why he was smiling, Xiong Wei shouted, "Li Yue, be careful!"

It was only then that Li Yue noticed the five silver dots in the air. These were the five silver needles redirected by Yan Ge. Because they were flying straight towards him, they looked like silver dots.

Li Yue's face turned pale, and he hurriedly somersaulted in the air to avoid the needles. Unfortunately, he wasn't fast enough. Two of the needles forcibly pierced his shoulder and left abdomen.

Li Yue let out a miserable cry and struggled on the ground, his complexion turning deathly pale. How could the needles hidden in the weapon be ordinary? As assassination tools, the needles contained compressed true qi. Upon hitting their target, they would immediately explode, much like mini bombs. That's why he was in such agony.

Wu Meng and Xiong Wei were clearly aware of this. Their expressions changed, and they rushed to Li Yue's side, helping him up and watching Yan Ge warily.

Xiong Wei spoke politely, "Senior, it was our lack of insight not to recognize a master in front of us. We hope that Senior considers our Sect Leader's reputation and won't hold this against the younger generation."

Yan Ge smiled pleasantly, seeming unbothered. "Table and chairs damage fee."

Li Yue was in a cold sweat from the pain, which rendered him unable to speak.

Xiong Wei swiftly took out a bank card from his pocket. "There's over thirteen thousand yuan on this card. The password is 603245."

Yan Ge nodded and suddenly tapped each of the three men on the chest.

Xiong Wei and the others immediately felt their dantians empty, devoid of any true qi. They were left shocked and glared at Yan Ge.

Yan Ge took out a few hundred yuan notes and placed them on the table. He chuckled, "Don't worry. I've just temporarily sealed your true qi and it will naturally be released after two months. This is your travel expense."

Xiong Wei and the others initially thought their cultivation had been crippled and felt their hearts sink. But after hearing the explanation and receiving money for transportation, they were left astonished.

They stared blankly as Yan He calmly departed, exchanging glances with each other. Without touching the money on the table, they hastily left. Their departure seemed more like a swift escape.

Yan Ge instantly reappeared next to Huangfu Yuchen, fixing his gaze into the pot. "Is it ready to eat?"

"You've returned just in time." Huangfu Yuchen placed a bowl of freshly cooked noodles in front of him.

Yan Ge picked up a fish ball and put it in his mouth, eating with a contented smile.

Yan Jiaqiang drove to the company.

He had just driven for a short distance when he casually glanced out the car window and saw Huangfu Yuchen standing on the roadside, holding a briefcase and staring at his car as if he was waiting for him. Puzzled, Yan Jiaqiang pulled over and rolled down the window

Huangfu Yuchen walked over, "Mr. Yan, are you interested in negotiating a deal?"

Yan Jiaqiang remained composed. He knew the man before him was not someone who should be underestimated. "I don't think we have any business between us."

"It's about Emerald Villa. Mr. Yan, are you really not interested?" Huangfu Yuchen calmly inquired.

Yan Jiaqiang's vigilance heightened. Just days ago, several board members of his company had pressured him to find a way to save Emerald Villa. He was already troubled by this matter, and now Huangfu Yuchen had come at this opportune time. Had he conducted a preliminary investigation? However, this wasn't the appropriate place for discussion. Yan Jiaqiang opened the car door, inviting Huangfu Yuchen inside.

"What do you want?" Yan Jiaqiang asked.

Huangfu Yuchen replied, "It's simple. I want you to issue a statement to sever your father-son relationship with Xiao Ge and the mother-son relationship between Du Rulan and Xiao Ge. In other words, Yan Ge will have no further ties with the Yan family."

Having broached the delicate subject, the rift between father and son became evident. Yan Jiaqiang wasn't surprised by Huangfu Yuchen's words, but the offer to separate Yan Ge from the Yan family intrigued him. Perhaps he could leverage this for his benefit.

Thinking of this, he smiled and responded indifferently, "Mr. Huangfu, though I don't have much affection for Yan Ge, he is still my biological son. Why would I sever ties with him out of nowhere?"

Yan Jiaqiang believed he had Huangfu Yuchen's weak spot in his grasp. Yet, he forgot that Huangfu Yuchen had long held his weakness in hand.

Huangfu Yuchen handed him several sheets of paper.

"What's this?" Yan Jiaqiang casually asked as he accepted the sheets. On seeing the title "Wine Recipe", his expression shifted.

He was about to examine them more closely but Huangfu Yuchen retrieved the papers from his hand. "As you may have noticed during your visit to Fengshan, there isn't any distinctive local liquor. The wine sold there is all procured from elsewhere." Fengshan Farm had already entered the right track, and establishing a dedicated winery would be too much hassle. After discussing it with Yan Ge, they decided not to produce their own wine.

"That's true," Yan Jiaqiang admitted, revealing some interest. "So, what's your proposal?"

Huangfu Yuchen explained straightforwardly, "It's quite simple. If you issue a statement severing the father-son relationship between you and Xiao Ge, as well as the mother-son relationship between Du Rulan and Xiao Ge, I will provide you with these four wine recipes for free. Additionally, I guarantee that Fengshan Farm will never produce these types of wine. Once Emerald Villa has access to these distinctive wines, it won't be any worse than Fengshan Farm."

Yan Jiaqiang didn't need to be told that once their newly produced wines hit the market, they would attract customers seeking good-quality wine, especially since they would be the sole suppliers. He could profit significantly. However, Huangfu Yuchen was giving up such potential gains to ensure Yan Ge's detachment from the Yan family. Was there a conspiracy behind this?

He remained silent for a long time, pondering but lacking a clear answer.

Huangfu Yuchen didn't press further. "In that case, I'll take my leave."

"Wait!" Yan Jiaqiang finally made up his mind. He and his wife had already severed ties with Yan Ge, so severing the relationship wasn't a big deal. As long as the wine recipes were genuine, he wasn't afraid of Huangfu Yuchen's schemes.

Huangfu Yuchen nodded with a calm gaze. "You only need to issue the statement. There's no need to explain why you're severing the relationships. There are four wine recipes in total. As a gesture of goodwill, I'll give you two now. After you make the statement tomorrow, I'll give you the remaining two."

Yan Jiaqiang nodded. "How can I be sure these recipes are genuine?"

"It's simple." Huangfu Yuchen took out a document from his briefcase. "The contract outlines everything clearly. If the recipes are fake, Fengshan Farm will be yours. Take a look. If you're satisfied, sign it."

Yan Jiaqiang was a seasoned fox and could spot any loopholes in a contract. After examining it closely and finding no issues, he relaxed and signed.

Huangfu Yuchen also signed, handing him the two wine recipes and leaving the car.

As Yan Jiaqiang's car disappeared, a nearly imperceptible sneer curled at the corner of Huangfu Yuchen's lips. He turned and walked away.

On this day, Yan Ge noticed Huangfu Yuchen was in an unusually good mood, even humming a popular song. Yan Ge stared at him for a while in surprise before teasingly pinching his upturned lips and asking, "What were you up to today?"

Huangfu Yuchen chuckled and pulled him into an embrace. "What? Checking up on your man?"

Yan Ge nodded.

Huangfu Yuchen laughed, "You'll find out eventually. Do you want to take a shower?"

"Why shower in the middle of the day?" Yan Ge swatted his hand away from his waist.

Huangfu Yuchen held him close, not letting go. "Join me. I worked up a sweat just stepping outside."

Yan Ge was dragged toward the bathroom as he rolled his eyes. They were cultivators, cultivators! How could they be sweating just from stepping outside? And it was winter!

Yan Ge remembered something, and he pushed away Huangfu Yuchen's wandering hand. "By the way, Yuchen, I think we need to find a cultivator to work in Section Two. We can't personally handle every situation where cultivators cause trouble, right?"

"I've thought of that too. Don't worry, I'll take care of it." Huangfu Yuchen's hand reached a bit further into Yan Ge's robe, and he closed the bathroom door.

The next morning, a fresh cool breeze swept over the farm.

Huangfu Yuchen descended to the first floor's living room in his robe. He glanced at the coffee table and saw a newspaper that emitted a faint ink scent lying quietly on it.

He strolled over, picked up the newspaper, and opened it to find a statement. He smiled in satisfaction.

Though the statement lacked legal effect, it conveyed the attitude he desired.

Huangfu Yuchen returned to the second-floor bedroom where Yan Ge was still asleep. His lips were slightly parted in an enticing manner, and the corner of his sleepwear had rolled up, revealing his firm and toned abdomen filled with hickeys. His lips were curled in a smile as he slept soundly.

Huangfu Yuchen lightly pressed his forehead against Yan Ge's, giving his beloved a quick peck on the lips. He then hugged him close and tucked him in, deciding to catch some more sleep.

Yan Ge woke up and without opening his eyes, he instinctively reached out to the side and hugged onto something soft. When he finally opened his eyes and looked, he found it was a pillow. Huangfu Yuchen wasn't in bed.

"What are you busy with?" Yan Ge mumbled incoherently and yawned. He faintly heard cheers and laughter from outside, so he looked out of the window.

It was snowing!

Snowflakes were falling gently from the sky, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. A thin layer of white had already covered the tree branches, dressing them in silver and white, creating a picturesque scene.

The Zhantian Vine climbed out from under the pillow, stretching lazily.

Yan Ge playfully tapped it and got out of bed to freshen up.

When he went to the living room on the first floor, he noticed the open newspaper on the coffee table. He picked it up and glanced at it, pondering its contents.

….

Yan Yan's academic performance was average, so he attended a local second-tier university.

Despite being a bit far from home, he didn't stay in the dormitory. As long as there wasn't anything special happening, he would always go home.

One afternoon, as he was leaving school, he happened to see a small cat. It looked almost identical to his own cat, Douding, which left him quite amazed.

The cat was incredibly cute, hopping around on the snowy ground, thoroughly enjoying itself and leaving behind a trail of tiny footprints. After Yan Yan had stared at it for a while, it turned its head and looked at him, emitting a "meow" as if greeting him. It even lifted its right front leg in a gesture of hello.

Yan Yan chuckled; it seemed like he had a connection with this cat. Plus, its fur appeared somewhat dirty, not like it had an owner. He decided to adopt it and took a step closer.

The little cat bounced away, running a few steps before glancing back at him.

Yan Yan hurriedly chased after it.

After chasing for quite a while without catching up, Yan Yan was on the verge of giving up. However, whenever he thought about the cat twisting its head and looking at him as if mocking him, his competitive spirit flared up again, and he dashed forward.

He didn't know how far he had run, but he finally managed to scoop up the little cat and cradle it in his arms.

"Let's see where you're trying to run off to," he lightly patted the cat's head, "Come on, come home with me."

As he turned around, he noticed a familiar car parked by the roadside.

The car must have been there for a while, as a thin layer of snow had accumulated on top of it.

"Dad's car?" He looked around and froze immediately.

Not far away, a tall man was holding a four or five-year-old child as they walked in this direction. Beside him, a woman with long hair in a coffee-colored coat was intimately linked to his arm.

Even though the man was wearing sunglasses, Yan Yan recognized him from his facial shape, height, build, and walking posture. It was Yan Jiaqiang!

"Dad!" His face was filled with disbelief as he screamed out.

Yan Jiaqiang trembled, stunned that Yan Yan would appear here. He instinctively thought about pretending not to know Yan Yan and turned in the other direction.

However, Yan Yan rushed over and knocked the sunglasses off his nose.

"It's really you! Who is she! Who is he!"

Fury surged in Yan Yan's eyes and he immediately slapped the woman's face hard.

Caught off guard, Yin Huiru's cheeks immediately reddened.

"Waaaa, Mom, Dad…" The little boy was frightened and burst into tears.

"Yan Yan!" Yan Jiaqiang was furious and he raised his hand and slapped Yan Yan.

Yan Yan's face stung as if it were on fire. He covered his face, staring at Yan Jiaqiang in disbelief. "You actually hit me? Bastard! You're all bastards!"

"You!" Yan Jiaqiang was enraged, ready to strike again.

Yan Yan let go of the kitten, turned his head, and ran.

In the shadows, Huangfu Yuchen smiled faintly, put away his camera, and left calmly.

Yan Yan ran all the way, suddenly bumping into a wall and falling back, tears streaming down his face. His arm was suddenly gripped by a strong hand, and a gentle, deep male voice sounded in his ear, "Sorry. Are you okay?"

Yan Yan raised his head, tears still visible in his eyes as he looked at the man's appearance, and he was stunned. This man was probably around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, with sharp features and a deep-set face. Under his handsome brows, his pitch-black eyes held a hint of gentleness. With a high nose and soft lips that seemed to be smiling, he exuded a certain charm. This person was handsome; although he couldn't compare to Huangfu Yuchen, his relatively gentle demeanor made him even more appealing to Yan Yan than Huangfu Yuchen.

"Why is such a grown man crying so easily?" Xiao Shuai couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of the boy who looked like he was still a student. He took a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to him.

Yan Yan was still in a daze.

Seeing that his cheek was red and slightly swollen, Xiao Shuai felt a bit sympathetic and helped him wipe his face with the handkerchief.

"Be more careful when you walk in the future."

Xiao Shuai finished speaking and was about to leave when his coat was grabbed.

"Can you give me a place to stay for the night?"

Xiao Shuai was taken aback, his brows furrowing.

Yan Yan took out his wallet and handed him his ID card and student ID. "I'm not trying to deceive you or anything, and I don't have any ill intentions. I just don't want anyone to find me for the time being."

"Aren't you afraid I'm a bad person?" Xiao Shuai raised an eyebrow.

Yan Yan smiled, "Would a bad person offer someone a handkerchief?"

Xiao Shuai nodded helplessly. "Fine, but just for one night."

"Thank you." Yan Yan nodded and quickly caught up with him, "I'm Yan Yan. And you?"

Xiao Shuai recalled the address on his ID card and had a vague guess about his identity. "Xiao Shuai. But let's get one thing straight, it's just for one night."

"Yeah, thanks." Yan Yan nodded. "Achoo—"

Xiao Shuai looked at his thin clothes and shook his head inwardly. Kids nowadays only care about looking stylish instead of. staying warm. He took off the scarf around his neck and handed it to Yan Yan.

A hint of happiness appeared in Yan Yan's eyes. He thanked Xiao Shuai and wrapped the scarf around his neck. Catching the faint tobacco scent on it, his face inexplicably felt hot.

Yan Jiaqiang didn't return home that day. When he called, Du Rulan's tone was normal.

He breathed a sigh of relief, it seemed that Yan Yan hadn't told Du Rulan about the situation yet, giving him some preparation time.

The next afternoon, Yan Jiaqiang returned home from work. As soon as he entered the door, Du Rulan pounced on him, scratching his face with both hands and shouting in a frenzy, "Yan Jiaqiang! Why did you treat me like this? Who is that woman? Who is she?"

The physical strength of the irrational woman should not be underestimated. Yan Jiaqiang was careless and got scratched by Du Rulan's long nails, leaving a blood mark on the right side of his face. He winced in pain.

Initially, he felt a bit guilty. Du Rulan was his legally wedded wife after all, and they had raised three children together. However, being scratched like this made him angry. He grabbed Du Rulan's wrist and pushed her onto the couch, growling, "Are you crazy? Stop acting like a madwoman!"

The household staff were startled by his harsh tone and dared not appear, hiding in the kitchen.

"Mad woman? Whose fault is that? I'll fight you to the end, you shameless, heartless bastard! Shameless!" Du Rulan yelled and cried, her well-groomed hair in a tangled mess around her face. She looked like a madwoman as she lunged at Yan Jiaqiang, hitting and scratching.

Yan Jiaqiang tightly held her wrist, his brows furrowed. In some ways, being discovered wasn't a bad thing. He had lost any feelings he had for Du Rulan a long time ago, and the Du family no longer held much value to him. If Du Rulan wanted a divorce, it might even be better. He still had four wine recipes on hand. Even if other businesses of the Yan family couldn't be revived, he could stand firm again with the Emerald Villa.

Thinking this, he slapped the hysterical Du Rulan, who was covered in tears and snot, back onto the couch. He snorted, not bothering to look at her, and went upstairs to his study. He locked the door, and went to the safe. He wanted to take the wine recipes and stay at another place for a few days as he sorted out his issues with Du Rulan.

After entering the password, he opened the safe and was dumbfounded—there was nothing inside! All four wine recipes he had stored were gone!

He quickly calmed down and thought about it—other than him, only Du Rulan knew the password. His face changed dramatically, and he left the study quickly, rushing downstairs. He grabbed the crying Du Rulan as if picking up a chick, and pushed Yan Yan, who was comforting her, aside.

"I'll ask you once did you take what was in the safe?"

"I didn't!" Du Rulan cried out, "wuuu…"

"Dad, you're crazy!" Yan Yan's chest heaved with anger, and he quickly helped Du Rulan up.

Yan Jiaqiang raised his head and slapped Du Rulan's face, his voice stern, "Only you know the safe's password aside from me. Who else could it be? Speak! Where did you hide it?"

Du Rulan stared at him like a stranger, loudly crying out for help, "Help! Help! Someone help, he's killing me!"

Yan Jiaqiang's face was cold, and he wanted to hit her again.

Yan Yan pushed him away, "Yan Jiaqiang! Have you gone crazy?"

"Its none of your business." Yan Jiaqiang shoved him aside, kicked Du Rulan in the side, and demanded, "Tell me, did you take it?"

Du Rulan stood in front of Yan Yan, a sly smile on her face. "Yes, I took it! I've destroyed them all! If you dare, go ahead and kill me!" In truth, she didn't have a clue what Yan Jiaqiang was talking about; she was deliberately provoking him.

"You!" Yan Jiaqiang's head spun with anger, and he laughed. "Okay, you think I won't dare?" With that, he slapped Du Rulan's mouth harshly. However, the back of his head suddenly throbbed with pain. He slowly turned around, and saw Yan Yan holding the neck of a vase, broken fragments littered the ground.

Yan Jiaqiang felt dizzy. He clutched his head in pain, and slumped down on the floor, his hand covered in blood.

Yan Yan was stunned. He let go of the vase's neck, and it crashed to the floor.

Du Rulan's face turned pale, "Help! Someone! Call an ambulance!"

Yan Weifeng and Zhang Qiaoqiao had gone to pick up Yan Si from kindergarten and returned home at this moment. They were shocked by the scene and quickly stepped forward to help.

While the Yan family was in chaos, Huangfu Yuchen sent the photos from the digital camera to the newspaper's email and then returned to the farm.

Yan Ge didn't ask him what he had been doing; instead, he went up to him, hugged him, and kissed his lips, then returned to the sofa with a nonchalant look and watched TV as if nothing had happened.

Huangfu Yuchen was taken aback for a moment, then he smiled and sat down beside him. Together, they watched TV.

During this time, Yan Ge received several phone calls. All were regarding Yan Jiaqiang cutting ties with him. After finishing the calls, his phone ran out of battery.

People who knew him knew that Yan Ge's parents didn't like him, so most of them sympathized with him.

People who didn't know him assumed that Yan Jiaqiang had cut ties with him because he was in a relationship with a man. However, they didn't care much. After all, people's thoughts were becoming more open these days, and their family matters had nothing to do with others.

In general, Yan Ge didn't hear anything bad.

The next day, the popular "Imperial Capital Daily" extensively reported about Yan Jiaqiang's affair and the fact that he had a son almost the same age as his grandson. The entire business world was in an uproar. Just over a month ago, Yan Jiaqiang and Du Rulan had been featured on the front page of the newspaper, showing their affection. Everyone was now laughing at the Yan family.

The Yan family and the Du family also stirred up a fuss. Although a married daughter was like spilled water, the Du family was also prominent figures. How could they let someone slap their faces and not retaliate?

Inside the Yan family, there was also turmoil. The Yan family's businesses were currently facing a major crisis. As the head of the family, Yan Jiaqiang should have dealt with the situation promptly, but he was now wrapped in scandals. This is tantamount to encouraging other members of the Yan family to rebel against him.

Yan Jiaqiang first had his affair exposed, then he lost the wine recipes, and now he was being questioned by other members of the Yan family. He was in a dire situation.

He called Huangfu Yuchen, wanting him to provide the wine recipes again, but Huangfu Yuchen replied innocently, " I'm sorry Mr. Yan. I directly gave you the original recipes back then because I wanted to show my sincerity and also because I was afraid you wouldn't believe the recipes. You should have noticed that the recipes were written on very old paper. In other words, I don't have any copies."

Yan Jiaqiang was thunderstruck.

On the other hand, Du Rulan wasn't one to be underestimated. She quickly found out Yin Huiru's address and rushed iver to scold her. Soon, that too made the headlines.

While all this was going on, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen's house was peaceful and warm.

Yan Ge was sitting on the couch, watching TV, while Huangfu Yuchen was looking over the account books. At this moment, his phone suddenly rang.

— "You are my little apple, I can't love you enough…"

Yan Ge's eyelid twitched and he shot Huangfu Yuchen a glare. He'd get goosebumps all over his body every time he heard that ringtone. He had even changed the ringtone a few times, but Huangfu Yuchen always changed it back, so he had no choice but to let it be.

"Baby, the lyrics after that are great." Huangfu Yuchen explained, patting Yan Ge's head before answering the call with a calm voice that was neither enthusiastic nor cold, "Who's this?"

A middle-aged man's calm and enthusiastic voice came from the other end, "Mr. Huangfu, I'm Meng Yingshan, the CEO of Feiyang Group. We're having a banquet at Jingli Hotel the day after tomorrow at 7 PM. I wonder if Mr. Huangfu and Mr. Yan would be honored to join us?"

"Xiao Ge?" Huangfu Yuchen looked at Yan Ge for confirmation.

Yan Ge nodded absentmindedly, his eyes still fixed on the TV drama "Suspicion During the Turmoil," which was reaching its climax tonight.

Huangfu Yuchen replied, "Mr. Meng, it's our pleasure to be invited. We will be there on time."

"Good, haha. Then I'll await your arrival."

Two days later, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen appeared at Jingli Hotel at 7 PM, dressed exceptionally handsome, and right on time.

Meng Yingshan saw them and walked up with a smile.

"Mr. Yan, long time no see. Hello, Mr. Huangfu. I've heard a lot about Mr. Huangfu's talents and handsomeness, seeing you today, it seems your reputation is well-deserved."

"Mr. Meng, you're being too kind." Yan Ge smiled gently, "If you have time, feel free to drop by the farm."

Meng Yingshan led them to a quieter area. "I invited both of you here for a few reasons. First, I wanted to personally express my gratitude. Second, I hope to make friends with you. And third, I'd like to introduce a few friends to you. They are interested in collaborating with your farm."

"We appreciate the opportunity, Mr. Meng." Yan Ge looked at the group of young people walking towards them.

Among them, the one in the middle stood out the most. He was around twenty-seven or twenty-eight, with striking features, a handsome appearance, and walked as if he was on a runway. The man to his left was a couple of years younger, but his presence was just as strong. His eyes were sharp and perceptive, and he subtly scanned Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen before giving them a courteous smile and nodding. The woman beside them wore a desert-colored dress with high heels, confidently striding forward. She exuded a strong aura of a successful woman.

"Allow me to introduce them to you. This is Xiao Shuai, the CEO of Qingyuan Enterprise; this is Kang Wei, the CEO of Hengchun Limited; and this is Anqi, the director of Kang'an Group."

Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen exchanged greetings with them.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Xiao Shuai smiled, "Your farm is truly impressive. I was lucky to get some discount coupons the first time I visited with my family. Unfortunately, my younger brother and cousin snatched the coupons from me before we even got home."

Everyone laughed.

Meng Yingshan chuckled, "You young folks always have interesting things to discuss. I, on the other hand, won't join in the fun."

After Meng Yingshan left, the group exchanged a few words of casual conversation before getting to the main topic.

"Mr. Yan, Mr. Huangfu, to be honest, the three of us are interested in visiting your farm. However, we've heard that your farm is rather cautious about collaborating with other companies. We were worried that dropping by directly might be too forward. So, we thought we'd take this opportunity to have a chat with the two of you." Kang Wei spoke rapidly, clearly a straightforward person.

Huangfu Yuchen patted Yan Ge's shoulder and suggested, "Xiao Ge, Xu Kai is over there. Do you want to go say hello?"

Yan Ge nodded and turned to Xiao Shuai and the others, "An old friend of mine is also here. Please excuse me for a moment."

"Mr. Yan, please go ahead."

After Yan Ge walked away, Huangfu Yuchen gestured with his hand, inviting the three of them to a quieter spot.

"I understand the nature of your respective businesses," Huangfu Yuchen began, "and I have a general idea of the areas you're interested in collaborating on. This isn't a problem, but I do have a condition."

"Oh?" Xiao Shuai had initially thought Huangfu Yuchen might be difficult to deal with due to his cold expression. However, Huangfu Yuchen speak directly and straightforwardly, and his impression improved slightly. "Please, go on."

Kang Wei and Anqi also looked intrigued.

"We're here on behalf of our companies, and we're all the decision-makers," Anqi smiled charmingly. "Mr. Huangfu, please feel free to share your condition."

Huangfu Yuchen took a sip of his wine and calmly stated, "As long as you can help me destroy Yan Jiaqiang's company, not only will I cooperate with you, but I'll also share 10% of the profits with you."

Huangfu Yuchen knew that Meng Yingshan had sought out the well-known enterprises in the capital, so these three individuals definitely had the power to bring down the Yan family's businesses. As for profit sharing, Fengshan Farm's largest investment was in the form of spiritual energy, which didn't need any capital investment on his part, and the other aspects of investment were not substantial. Even if he offered 10% of the profits, it wouldn't result in a loss.

Xiao Shuai, Kang Wei, and Anqi exchanged astonished glances, a look of surprise and suspicion in their eyes. 10% profits! While 10% might not sound like much, if they collaborated and established a long-term high-volume partnership as expected, 10% wasn't a small figure!

"Are you serious?" Kang Wei asked seriously.

Huangfu Yuchen responded calmly, "I never joke."

Xiao Shuai glanced at Yan Ge, who was chatting with someone in the distance, thoughtfully. "Does he know about this?" He examined Huangfu Yuchen, feeling that he didn't seem like the type of person to exploit his lover's emotions for revenge. Perhaps he was overthinking things.

Huangfu Yuchen didn't answer directly, "This is what Yan Jianqiang owes Xiao Ge. You can think about it."

Xiao Shuai seemed to understand. It seemed that he was seeking revenge on behalf of Yan Ge. Xiao Shuai had thought that Huangfu Yuchen held a grudge against Yan Jianqiang.

Kang Wei extended his hand to Huangfu Yuchen. "I agree. The Yan businesses are already on their last legs."

Huangfu Yuchen shook hands with him. "Happy cooperation."

"Happy cooperation," Anqi added, also extending her hand. Regardless of Huangfu Yuchen's motives, what mattered was how much benefits her company could get.

Huangfu Yuchen nodded and calmly looked at Xiao Shuai.

Xiao Shuai chuckled and extended his hand as well. "Mr. Huangfu, prepare the contract in advance."

"You can rest assured."

After exchanging business cards, they went their separate ways.

With a weight lifted off his mind, Huangfu Yuchen walked over to Yan Ge, casually resting his hand on Yan Ge's shoulder. "What were you discussing?"

"Isn't it about your farm?" Xu Kai asked in a low voice. "Yan Ge, Huangfu, do you have any secret techniques for the vegetables and fruits you grow at the farm? My wife's skin has improved a lot after eating your vegetables for a month. My knee used to have some hidden pain due to an old injury, but it's gotten much better lately."

Yan Ge shrugged, smiling playfully. "Who knows? Yuchen?"

Huangfu Yuchen raised his hands in a gesture of surrender.

Xu Kai shook his head in resignation and tsked, but he didn't press further.

Yan Ge added, "By the way, I've been meaning to ask you. Is there something wrong with He Xin? He seemed down and lacking spirit the last few times I've seen him. When I ask him, he doesn't say anything."

Xu Kai seemed to recall something, shook his head, sighed, glanced around, and lowered his voice. "Isn't it because of his excellent in-laws? You haven't forgotten he's the son-in-law who married into the family, right?"

Yan Ge nodded. "I haven't forgotten. What happened?"

Huangfu Yuchen brought a plate of snacks to Yan Ge.

As Yan Ge ate, Xu Kai continued talking.

"Back then, Father Long and Mother Long just had a modest shop. It's safe to say that He Xin played a significant role in building up the Long family's department store business. He Xin endured so much hardship initially, and we, his good friends, all know that. But I don't know what got into his in-law's heads, or maybe it's because of their bootlicking nephew, they actually said He Xin is an outsider and handed the company over to Long Xing to manage. To put it bluntly, the store was like He Xin's son. Father Long and Mother Long snatched it away, despite He Xin's hard work. Could He Xin not feel angry? But you also know, his relationship with Miao Miao is solid. It's because of this that he's been enduring. Miao Miao has talked to her parents many times, but it hasn't worked. The moment Long Xing took over, he schemed to push He Xin out."

"And I don't think they're done causing trouble."

"What is He Xin doing now?" Yan Ge asked with concern.

Xu Kai explained, "There's no way around it. He's currently working at a sales company. I asked him to join my company as an experienced member of the sales department, but he refused. I suppose he couldn't bear to lose face."

Yan Ge had an idea and looked at Huangfu Yuchen. They both had limited manpower they could rely on. Up to now, they had been personally managing the farm. On one hand, they were getting a bit tired of it, and on the other, it was consuming their cultivation time. He thought highly of He Xin's character and abilities. If they could bring him on board, not only would it give him an opportunity to showcase his talents, but it would also free up both of them. This could be considered a win-win situation.

Huangfu Yuchen understood his thoughts and also found it to be a good idea. He nodded in agreement.

Xu Kai guessed their thoughts and shook his head, "You want to invite him to help out at the farm? I think that's too aggressive."

Yan Ge laughed heartily and patted his shoulder, saying, "You never know, maybe my influence is greater than yours, Little Xu."

Xu Kai protested, "If he agrees after turning me down, then I'll make sure he buys me food from the farm for a week!"

Yan Ge laughed, "Hahaha… okay, I support you!"

The next day, after breakfast, Yan Ge intended to call He Xin and invite him to meet up.

As he opened his contacts, the Zhantian Vine suddenly flew in, swaying its head at him.

Yan Ge raised an eyebrow. He had instructed the Zhantian Vine to watch the farm's entrance and notify him upon spotting any cultivators. Was there some development?

He extended his spiritual sense and saw a group of people entering the farm with tickets. They looked around and walked forward with a clear direction in mind.

Among them were Wu Meng, Li Yue, and Xiong Wei whom he had seen before. Yan Ge smiled in amusement and muttered to himself, "It seems they are quite ungrateful."

Li Yue's group arrived at Division Two area and found the door open.

He Chuanfeng saw a young man seated behind a desk with a book spread out in front of him. The young man was engrossed in it, and only raised his head when he heard movement at the door.

He Chuanfeng seized him up and his eyes brightened. He could tell at a glance that this young man had remarkable aptitude, even better than Li Yue's.

"Master, he's the one who sealed our true qi!" Li Yue pointed at Yan Ge, his chin raised and his eyes squinted, looking very arrogant now that he had found a backer.

Yan Ge also observed He Chuanfeng. This man wasn't that old. He looked around fifty, with a robust physique and a kind face. His eyes were particularly gentle, not like someone who couldn't distinguish right from wrong.

Nodding at Li Yue, Xiong Wei, and Wu Meng, Yan Ge asked, "You three are here again? Did you come to offer more money?"

"Don't get cocky!" Li Yue shouted, "This is my Master, He Chuanfeng, the head of Mimon Mountain Sect! Don't be disrespectful!"

Yan Ge nodded again but remained seated, "So, you're Sect Master He. What brings you here?"

He Chuanfeng couldn't discern Yan Ge's cultivation level and bowed politely, "I wouldn't dare. According to my three disciples here, there's a farm with abundant spiritual energy in the Imperial City. This old man came to witness it."

Li Yue looked at him in surprise, "Master…" Wasn't he here to seek revenge for them?

Yan Ge smiled, "I see, you're welcome then. However, Sect Master He should be aware of our rules. Dining is possible, but lodging is out of the question."

"I understand."

"Senior Brother." A senior disciple who had been standing beside He Chuanfeng stepped forward. This elder was close to sixty, small and thin, with white eyebrows almost covering his eyes, yet his eyes gleamed through.

He Chuanfeng glanced at him, "Junior Brother Min, what's the matter?"

Min Liye spoke softly, "The incident where Li Yue and the others were beaten up and had their true qi sealed has spread. If we let it go, where would our Mimon Mountain's face be?"

He Chuanfeng furrowed his brows. As Min Liye said, if they let Li Yue's incident go without taking any action, Mimon Mountain Sect would become a laughingstock in the cultivation world. However, he felt it wasn't wise to escalate tensions with Fengshan Farm. The spiritual energy here was tempting, and even if he didn't think for himself, he had to consider the other disciples in his sect. When it came down to it, this issue stemmed from the recklessness of Li Yue and the other two.

"Let's have a meal first, then we'll decide."

Min Liye frowned. His senior brother was too cowardly. With so many of them, couldn't they defeat a young man in his twenties? From what he knew, just over two years ago, Yan Ge was an ordinary person. Even if he was a genius, how high could his cultivation have reached in just two years? Li Yue and the other two were just incompetent.

He didn't mention the Idea of seizing the farm yet. This farm could operate in the Imperial City, so it surely had some background. As long as they defeated Yan Ge and made him yield, gaining a chance to stay on the farm for an extended period, everything would be resolved.

Thinking this, he didn't bother communicating with He Chuanfeng and addressed Yan Ge impolitely, "Mr. yan, we can't just let you go after injuring our sect's disciples. We hope you can provide an explanation."

He Chuanfeng disapproved and glared at him, but since the words had been spoken, he couldn't undermine his junior brother's face in front of so many disciples. He could only remain silent, giving the impression of tacit agreement.

Yan Ge chuckled lightly, crossing his arms, "What kind of explanation do you want?"

Min Liye stood before him with his hands behind his back, "As long as you can apologize to my three disciples, we'll consider the last incident a misunderstanding."

"Oh?" Yan Ge lowered his gaze to his book, nonchalantly saying, "And if I refuse?"

Min Liye's eyes narrowed, "Then I'll personally seek justice for my disciples."

"You're welcome to try." Yan Ge turned a page.

"You arrogant brat!" Min Liye turned his hand into a palm and pushed it out forcefully, a tremendous surge of energy directed at Yan Ge's face.

He Chuanfeng and the other disciples quickly moved aside.

Without lifting his head, Yan Ge picked up his book and casually waved it like shooing away a mosquito, blocking Min Liye's palm wind and rebounding the force.

Min Liye's hand went numb, and he hastily leaped backward to avoid his own attack's counterforce.