Chapter 1227: Infatuated
The Black Talisman Master was indeed right in that regard. He hadn't torn through space to appear directly inside the Death God Temple, which, under normal circumstances, would be considered a sign of respect for the temple. But blocking the main entrance of the Death God Temple? That wasn't respect at all; it was a blatant provocation.
The Black Talisman Master's actions might have seemed contradictory, but they weren't. There was a natural reason for him to act this way.
By not directly tearing through space to descend inside the Death God Temple, he was telling Yang Haoran that, as a member of another sect, he had observed the most basic courtesies upon arriving at the Death God Temple.
As for why he didn't enter the Death God Temple but instead blocked its entrance, his action was meant to convey a message to Yang Haoran: he was deeply uncomfortable. Uncomfortable with the Gu Mo City Underworld Office, and even more uncomfortable with Yang Haoran himself!
The Black Talisman Master spoke eloquently, but the Night Watchers present weren't fools. Of course, they could see that these two Talisman Masters had come to their Death God Temple today to cause trouble.
"Esteemed Emissary," the leading Night Watcher began, his tone now tinged with a few shades of coldness, "if you have matters to discuss with our Emissary, you are welcome to enter the Death God Temple. Why block the entrance to our temple? Such an action easily leads one to misunderstand it as a deliberate provocation."
"I would indeed like to enter your Death God Temple, but you stand before us, glaring as if you mean to devour us. How are the two of us to enter? It isn't that we wish to block the entrance to your Death God Temple; you are forcing us to remain here at the door."
The Black Talisman Master said in a deep voice. Anyone could see he was twisting words, making excuses for his behavior, and the leading Night Watcher naturally saw it too.
"There's no need for you to come in, as our Emissary is not present. If you wish to discuss anything with our Emissary, please return another time. Therefore, I must ask you to leave now."
The two Talisman Masters remained utterly still, showing no intention of leaving, nor of unblocking the entrance. The Black Talisman Master, in particular, was already feeling considerably displeased, and upon hearing the Night Watcher's words, his anger naturally intensified even further.
"Heh heh, is this the hospitality of your Gu Mo City Underworld Office?"
The Black Talisman Master, enraged to the point of laughter, questioned the leading Night Watcher. The fury in his heart made his eyes turn icy, and his tone carried undisguised killing intent.
The leading Night Watcher was not intimidated by the Black Talisman Master's words, nor were the other Night Watchers behind him. Not only were they unafraid, but they were also secretly activating the Spirit Power within their bodies, poised to strike at any moment.
"Our Underworld Office naturally has its own way of hospitality, but for friends, we will certainly entertain them with fine wine and good food. For those who are not friends, asking them to leave is already being very polite."
The leading Night Watcher showed no quarter. After uttering these words, he made a welcoming gesture towards the two Talisman Masters in front of him, though this gesture was not an invitation to enter the Death God Temple, but rather a dismissal, urging them to leave quickly.
"From your words, it sounds like the two of us are your enemies? Or rather, is your Underworld Office now considering our Talisman Order as an enemy?"
The Black Talisman Master did not move his feet, nor did he show any intention of leaving. He looked at the leading Night Watcher and asked coldly.
This was a heavy accusation. The leading Night Watcher understood the stakes involved, and thus was so cornered by the Black Talisman Master's words that he didn't dare utter a single syllable, for in his view, any answer would be wrong.
If he answered that they were not enemies, it would mean that the hospitality of their Gu Mo City Underworld Office was indeed terrible, and if that spread, it would bring considerable negative impact upon their Gu Mo City Underworld Office.
If he answered that they were enemies, the nature of the situation would completely change, and the repercussions would only be far worse than the former. For the Black Talisman Master had asked if the Underworld Office had considered the Talisman Order as an enemy, not if the Gu Mo City Underworld Office had considered their Gu Mo City Talisman Order as an enemy.
Such a broad and serious charge, if answered affirmatively, the Black Talisman Master would undoubtedly seize the opportunity to solidify this accusation, and then the matter would concern not merely the Gu Mo City Underworld Office and the Gu Mo City Talisman Order, but the entire Underworld Office and the Talisman Order.
Seeing the leading Night Watcher remain silent, a sneer appeared on the Black Talisman Master's face, and a cold snort escaped his lips.
"Hmph, why are you silent? I demand an immediate answer!"
The Black Talisman Master was aggressive, and the Night Watchers present were extremely angry, but none dared to speak. Not only the Night Watchers were furious; many of the believers present also showed expressions of anger on their faces.
Although they were just ordinary people, they were devout followers of the Death God. As pious believers, how could they tolerate someone causing trouble at the Death God Temple?
Previously, these believers dared not approach the two Talisman Masters, out of ordinary human instinct, and because they didn't know these two Talisman Masters had come to cause trouble at the Death God Temple, they kept their distance.
But now, they all saw that the two Talisman Masters were there to cause trouble, and thus their inner faith completely overshadowed their fear. Although they didn't act against the two, the anger in their hearts was clearly displayed on their faces.
Judging by their furious expressions, if the leading Night Watcher merely gave the order, they would, in all likelihood, attack the two Talisman Masters, even knowing they would be no match for them.
Both sides were at daggers drawn, and the air was thick with the scent of gunpowder. Just then, a faint voice echoed through the area.
"Heh heh, guests are guests. Please escort them to the Reception Hall. I will be there shortly."
The one who spoke was none other than Yang Haoran, the head of the Gu Mo City Underworld Office. However, the voice was ethereal and fleeting, making it impossible to discern Yang Haoran's current location from it alone.
The Night Watchers present were no strangers to Yang Haoran's voice, and the leading Night Watcher was, of course, no exception. After receiving Yang Haoran's order, the leading Night Watcher gestured to the others. Understanding the meaning of the gesture, the Night Watchers promptly abandoned their combative stances and respectfully positioned themselves behind the leading Night Watcher.
"The Emissary has given an order. Please, both of you, follow me."
Although the leading Night Watcher was very reluctant to be so polite to the two, Yang Haoran had already given the command. Even if he was unwilling, he still had to comply, though his tone remained cold and his demeanor extremely aloof.
"Hmph, didn't you say your Emissary wasn't in the Death God Temple? How is it that he's suddenly reappeared now?"
The leading Night Watcher was already extremely annoyed with the two of them, especially the Black Talisman Master, whose words irked him even more. At that moment, upon hearing the Black Talisman Master's remark, he yearned to unleash the fury in his heart, but ultimately he suppressed it, not uttering a single word.
"Heh heh, for a distinguished Black Talisman Master of the Talisman Order, why bother making things difficult for my Night Watchers? That would surely be beneath your station. I was indeed not in the Death God Temple earlier; I merely returned just now. So, to say I wasn't in the Death God Temple was indeed not incorrect."
Upon hearing Yang Haoran's words, the Black Talisman Master let out another cold snort, his body remaining rooted to the spot, showing no intention of moving forward.
"Hmph, you must be Yang Haoran, the Emissary of the Gu Mo City Underworld Office. For someone of your status to utter such nonsense that even a child wouldn't believe, it seems I have overestimated you."
The Black Talisman Master's actions and his current words were clearly intended to embarrass Yang Haoran and give him a rough welcome, establishing dominance. However, his understanding of Yang Haoran was, in the end, far too shallow, especially of the current Yang Haoran, whom he understood even less.
He had believed that his actions and his current words would make Yang Haoran realize the seriousness of the situation, thereby facilitating the unfolding of his subsequent plans. However, Yang Haoran's next words greatly exceeded his expectations, even putting him in an awkward position.
"Heh heh, if you wish to discuss matters, then please come in and do so. Don't stand guard at our temple's entrance. To have such a distinguished Black Talisman Master guard the gate of my Death God Temple, that's simply too extravagant; I can't afford the salary. Of course, if you don't wish to talk, then please leave. If your legs are unable to move, I can personally come out and escort you."
Yang Haoran's words, though delivered in his usual calm tone, devoid of any negative emotion, carried a meaning entirely different from his voice. Every word was laced with thorns, each one piercing the Black Talisman Master's chest.
Furthermore, Yang Haoran's words had pushed the Black Talisman Master into a corner. If he didn't make a choice and continued to block the temple's entrance, a conflict would inevitably erupt.
Before coming to the Death God Temple, he had already gained a rough understanding of Yang Haoran's strength. Although he was a Black Talisman Master, he knew very well that he would absolutely be no match for Yang Haoran. If a conflict broke out between them, it was clear without a doubt that he would be the one to suffer.
"Hmph!"
The Black Talisman Master let out a cold snort, his expression extremely grim. He said nothing more, but with a look of displeasure, he finally took a step forward.
Seeing this, the Yellow Talisman Master immediately followed his counterpart. His strength was meager, and his standing within the Talisman Order was at the absolute bottom. Since even the Black Talisman Master had shut up, he certainly wasn't going to foolishly stick his head out at this moment.
The leading Night Watcher said nothing, not even bothering to spare the two another glance. He walked at the very front, leading the way, with the two Talisman Masters following behind him. As for the other Night Watchers, they didn't leave but closely trailed behind the two Talisman Masters, remaining vigilant at all times.
The two Talisman Masters were sandwiched in the middle. This scene resembled less a welcoming of guests and more the escorting of prisoners.
The Night Watchers' actions naturally made both Talisman Masters extremely uncomfortable. The Yellow Talisman Master remained silent, knowing he had no right to speak. But the Black Talisman Master was different; he believed his status was noble, and he could say whatever he pleased, with no one to restrain him.
"Today, I have truly witnessed the hospitality of your Gu Mo City Underworld Office. Not only was there no Emissary of Death personally coming out to greet me, but I was also escorted like a prisoner. When I return, I will truthfully report everything that has happened here to the higher-ups, hmph!"
The Black Talisman Master's words were not merely an outlet for his displeasure; they were, more significantly, a threat.
None of the Night Watchers present paid any attention to the Black Talisman Master, but the Yellow Talisman Master beside him couldn't help but speak upon hearing those words.
"Emissary, please calm your anger. Gu Mo City is no longer the Gu Mo City of old. Now, their Underworld Office dominates everything, so. . ."
The Yellow Talisman Master stopped mid-sentence. His words seemed to be consoling the Black Talisman Master, but in reality, he was stirring up trouble. Even though he didn't finish his sentence, anyone could imagine what he was implying.
Moreover, his words weren't entirely accurate. In the current Gu Mo City, besides the Underworld Office, the Holy Mother Cult's strength was also quite formidable. The Yellow Talisman Master certainly wouldn't be unaware of this; his statement was entirely deliberate, his objective self-evident.
"Hmph, 'dominates everything,' indeed. If Yang Haoran doesn't give me a satisfactory explanation today, and doesn't spit out everything that belongs to our Gu Mo City Talisman Order, he'll see what's coming to him!"
The Black Talisman Master replied in a deep voice, his face so grim it was almost dripping water.
"It might be a bit difficult to make their Underworld Office spit out what they've consumed. . ."
As soon as the Yellow Talisman Master uttered these words, he was met with the Black Talisman Master's murderous glare. The look was icy and piercing, causing the Yellow Talisman Master's body to involuntarily tremble slightly.
"What do you mean by that?"
The Black Talisman Master asked the Yellow Talisman Master coldly. Although both were Talisman Masters of the Talisman Order, the Black Talisman Master's tone at this moment was filled with ill will, as if he were addressing an enemy.
Seeing this, the Yellow Talisman Master knew that the Black Talisman Master was already displeased with him. If this matter wasn't handled properly, he would very likely become the Black Talisman Master's punching bag. So, with a panicked expression, he quickly began to explain.
"This subordinate had absolutely no intention of questioning the Emissary's abilities. If I had come alone, it would certainly be unrealistic to make the Underworld Office spit out what they've consumed. But today, with you, Emissary, making an appearance, I believe we will certainly succeed in reclaiming what belongs to our Gu Mo City Talisman Order. After all, today you represent our entire Talisman Order, not just our Gu Mo City Talisman Order. I believe Yang Haoran, if he has even a shred of common sense, will know what to do."
The Yellow Talisman Master's words indeed softened the Black Talisman Master's expression slightly; he was no longer as murderous as he had been moments before.
"You're right. If Yang Haoran has even a shred of common sense, he should know how to handle this matter. Don't worry, I will make Yang Haoran spit out every single thing that belongs to your Gu Mo City Talisman Order; this is my promise to you, and to your Gu Mo City Talisman Order. Since the higher-ups have sent me to deal with this matter, I will certainly handle it properly, so as not to lose face for our Talisman Order, and especially not to lose face for myself and let others make a mockery of us!"
The Yellow Talisman Master breathed a sigh of relief. Whether the Black Talisman Master's promise would ultimately be fulfilled, he couldn't be certain. But what he could be certain of was that the Black Talisman Master's anger towards him had significantly diminished, which was why he felt a sense of relief.
Although he didn't know if the Black Talisman Master could settle things with Yang Haoran today, to prevent the Black Talisman Master from redirecting his anger onto him, the diplomatic pleasantries still had to be spoken.
"The Emissary speaks absolute truth. Such a major incident has occurred this time; if it's not handled well, it will surely become a laughingstock for others. The few Talisman Masters like us who remain in Gu Mo City have very limited abilities and cannot handle this matter, but I believe the Emissary will certainly be able to resolve it, because you possess that capability!"
The Yellow Talisman Master's flattery made the Black Talisman Master very comfortable, and his displeasure with the Yellow Talisman Master consequently diminished by more than half. At the same time, it was also because of the Yellow Talisman Master's words that he felt more confident about this trip.
The Night Watchers present heard the entire conversation between the two. Bound by rules, none of them spoke or moved against the two. However, inwardly, they held nothing but contempt for these two Talisman Masters, even finding them amusing, and they did not believe that the Black Talisman Master could truly gain an advantage from their Emissary.
Led by the Night Watchers, the group soon arrived at the Reception Hall.
In the main seat of the grand hall, Yang Haoran was already seated, waiting. He leaned back slightly, casually smoking. Seeing the Night Watchers escorting the two Talisman Masters into the Reception Hall, he slowly stood up with a smile, then extinguished the cigarette in his hand.
Yang Haoran's gaze fell upon the two Talisman Masters, and they, in turn, fixed their eyes on Yang Haoran.
Yang Haoran did not recognize the Black Talisman Master; he had never seen this person before. As for the Yellow Talisman Master following behind the Black Talisman Master, while they weren't exactly acquainted, Yang Haoran had seen him once before in the Talisman Ancestor Temple, so he had some impression of him.
That the Yellow Talisman Master would follow the Black Talisman Master to the Death God Temple today, in Yang Haoran's view, meant he was likely playing the role of a guide. However, this guide certainly wasn't bringing the Black Talisman Master to the Death God Temple for sightseeing.
As for the Black Talisman Master, Yang Haoran didn't even need to guess to know that this person was playing the role of a parent, coming to him to cause trouble. After all, he had already made it quite obvious earlier at the Death God Temple's entrance.
Although he knew that the visitors had ill intentions and that their encounter today would certainly not be pleasant, Yang Haoran did not wear a grim expression like the Black Talisman Master. Instead, he greeted them with a smile.
"Heh heh, esteemed Emissaries, I truly apologize. I was held up with something just now, which is why I couldn't come out to greet you personally. I hope you two don't take offense."
Yang Haoran spoke with a smile and stepped towards the two. Whether it was his tone, his choice of words, or the expression on his face, he exuded utmost politeness. Anyone unaware of the situation would certainly mistake the two Talisman Masters for Yang Haoran's old friends upon witnessing this scene.
The Yellow Talisman Master had some idea of what kind of person Yang Haoran was. After all, he lived in Gu Mo City, and Yang Haoran was the city's foremost figure, so it was natural for him to have some understanding of Yang Haoran.
And precisely because he had some understanding of Yang Haoran, seeing him so polite and amiable now didn't strike him as odd, nor was he surprised in the least.
However, the Black Talisman Master didn't know much about Yang Haoran. His limited understanding came from the few remaining members of the Gu Mo City Talisman Order, whose knowledge of Yang Haoran was already quite restricted. Naturally, the useful information the Black Talisman Master gleaned from them was even scantier.
Therefore, seeing Yang Haoran being so courteous and amiable towards them now, he was surprised yet filled with doubt, wondering what Yang Haoran's game was.
"Emissary, you absolutely must not be fooled by his politeness. This man is polite to everyone, but when he acts, he's more ruthless than an executioner!"
The Yellow Talisman Master intentionally kept his voice very low, but those present were not ordinary people. Even with his subdued voice, Yang Haoran and the others heard everything clearly and distinctly, not missing a single word.
Since the Night Watchers were entirely shrouded in black robes, it was impossible to discern their expressions at that moment. However, Yang Haoran was not wearing a black robe, so everyone could clearly see his facial reactions.
The Yellow Talisman Master's words were directed at Yang Haoran, and they weren't praising him; rather, they were sarcastic and disparaging. Most people encountering such a situation, if they had a short temper, would surely erupt in anger on the spot, even resorting to violence. Those with better tempers, while perhaps not immediately lashing out, would certainly not have pleasant expressions.
Yet, upon hearing the Yellow Talisman Master's words, Yang Haoran's expression didn't change in the slightest. As if he hadn't heard a thing, he maintained his smile and warmly greeted the two.
"Heh heh, whatever matters there are, let's discuss them slowly once we're seated. It would be too impolite to keep you both standing like this. Please, make yourselves at home; don't be shy."
The Black Talisman Master had already emerged from his initial surprise and doubt. He wasn't entirely foolish and didn't doubt the Yellow Talisman Master's warning. After all, when he was blocking the Death God Temple's entrance earlier, Yang Haoran's words had been quite forceful. Therefore, Yang Haoran's current politeness towards them was not genuine politeness.
However, the Black Talisman Master didn't care about this point, because he felt that whether Yang Haoran's politeness was genuine or feigned, it would not affect the ultimate outcome of his trip.
"Hmph, since Emissary Yang has said so, then I won't stand on ceremony."
The Black Talisman Master snorted coldly, then walked to the nearest seat and sat down. Seeing this, the Yellow Talisman Master immediately followed the Black Talisman Master, taking a seat beside him.
After the two were seated, Yang Haoran then smiled and looked towards the leading Night Watcher, before speaking.
"Heh heh, you've all worked hard. I'll take it from here. You may all withdraw and attend to your duties."
"Yes, Emissary!"
The several individuals responded in unison and bowed respectfully to Yang Haoran before leaving the Reception Hall.
After they left, Yang Haoran then smiled faintly again.
"Someone."
A Night Watcher appeared at the sound. This Night Watcher was not part of the previous group; his main duty was to oversee this Reception Hall, and he was responsible for receiving any guests who arrived here.
As he had been lurking in the shadows nearby, the moment Yang Haoran spoke, he instantly appeared before Yang Haoran.
"Greetings, Emissary!"
The man bowed respectfully, and Yang Haoran said with a smile.
"Heh heh, please serve tea to our two guests."
"Yes, Emissary!"
The Night Watcher respectfully withdrew, then proceeded to prepare tea as Yang Haoran had instructed. As for why he only did so after Yang Haoran spoke, rather than doing so automatically when guests arrived, it was because Yang Haoran had previously given him instructions: not all who came to the Reception Hall were guests, and not all were to be politely served tea and pastries.
It was precisely for this reason that the Night Watcher only handled these matters after receiving Yang Haoran's command; he wouldn't dare act on his own initiative.
After the Night Watcher left, Yang Haoran returned to the main seat and sat down once more, then turned his gaze to the Black Talisman Master.
"Heh heh, this esteemed Emissary seems unfamiliar to me. How should I address you?"
Yang Haoran spoke with a smile, his demeanor as polite and amiable as before, showing no change whatsoever.
"How to address me, you need not know. You only need to know that I come from the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent."
The Black Talisman Master replied coldly, his attitude unchanged by Yang Haoran's politeness. Especially when mentioning the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent, a hint of habitual pride appeared on his face.
From this, it was not difficult to see that the Black Talisman Master was not only very satisfied with his status but even proud of it, and all of his pride stemmed from the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent.
Yang Haoran had never been to the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent, but he knew of the place and understood what kind of authority that temple wielded.
This Talisman Ancestor Temple is like the Jingling Continent's Demon Hunter Association branch, managing all the Demon Hunter Association branches within the Jingling Continent. In other words, all the Talisman Ancestor Temples, big and small, throughout the Jingling Continent are managed by this largest Talisman Ancestor Temple.
Among the Talisman Masters in this temple, there are many strong individuals; one could say that almost all of the top Talisman Masters in the entire Jingling Continent reside there. However, not everyone there is a powerful expert. If they were all strong, then who would handle the various trivial matters?
Surely, these top Talisman Masters couldn't be expected to personally deal with such mundane tasks?
Therefore, within this largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent, it's not exclusively populated by terrifyingly powerful experts. There are also weaker Talisman Masters, and quite a significant number of them, far outnumbering the true powerhouses.
These Talisman Masters who aren't considered strong are either well-connected individuals or exceptionally talented prospects. Thus, even if they haven't yet become, or are not currently, top-tier Talisman Masters in the Jingling Continent, their status is still quite esteemed—at least, in their own eyes.
"Heh, no wonder he's so arrogant. So he's from the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent. I wonder if this guy was chosen by the temple based on his talent, or if he got in through connections."
Yang Haoran thought to himself. Of course, he wouldn't say these words aloud; it wasn't that he didn't dare, but rather that he saw no need to. Besides, even if he were to say them, now wasn't the right time.
Although he thought this, what Yang Haoran said out loud was the exact opposite of what was on his mind.
"Heh, so the Divine Emissary comes from the largest Talisman Ancestor Temple in Jingling Continent. No wonder you cut such a striking figure and possess such a grand bearing. To become a Talisman Master of that temple, you are indeed extraordinary."
Yang Haoran smiled faintly, his expression unexaggerated, his tone calm. Precisely because of this, when he spoke those words, it was as if he were stating a fact, rather than offering flattery.
The Black Talisman Master, whose face had been quite unpleasant, finally relaxed his grim expression upon hearing Yang Haoran's words.
Yang Haoran observed the Black Talisman Master's reaction, and seeing it, his expression remained unchanged as he continued to speak with a smile.
"I've heard that your place is filled with experts, every one a talent, and they speak so pleasantly. I absolutely adore that place. It's just a pity that I haven't had the chance to visit it myself."
A smile appeared on the Black Talisman Master's face. When he looked at Yang Haoran now, he found him much more pleasing to the eye than before.
"Heh, you're not wrong. Our place is indeed teeming with experts; all the top Talisman Masters in the entire Jingling Continent are at our temple. I'm not exaggerating, but any strong individual who casually steps out from our temple could make the whole Jingling Continent tremble!"
The Black Talisman Master spoke with absolute certainty, yet reality is often far from absolute. That their place was filled with experts was undoubtedly true, no lie there. But to claim that all the top Talisman Masters in the entire Jingling Continent were at their temple was an overstatement. As for his later assertion that any strong individual casually stepping out from their temple could make the whole Jingling Continent tremble, that too was a bit exaggerated.
However, Yang Haoran didn't expose the Black Talisman Master. Since the other party enjoyed such flattery, he might as well indulge him. If he could persuade the other party with words, that would naturally be ideal. If not, then he would have no choice but to resort to more forceful methods.
Yang Haoran was well aware of why this Black Talisman Master had come to find him today. It was a troublesome matter, but one that absolutely had to be resolved, otherwise, it would be endless.
His chosen method of handling it was a combination of gentle and forceful tactics. Earlier, when the Black Talisman Master had deliberately provoked trouble at the temple entrance, Yang Haoran had subtly displayed his strength, precisely to warn the Black Talisman Master not to go too far. That was the forceful approach.
Now, he was using words to praise the Black Talisman Master to the skies, delivering flattery without a blush or a racing heart, as if he were simply stating facts. This was the gentle approach.
Whether it was the forceful or gentle tactic, judging by the Black Talisman Master's reaction, both seemed effective. This was certainly good news for Yang Haoran.
No sooner had the Black Talisman Master's smug voice faded than a Night Watcher, following Yang Haoran's instructions, presented the tea. He then respectfully withdrew, disappearing into the shadows.
"Heh, Divine Emissary, you've come a long way. Please, try our local specialty. This tea certainly can't compare to the fine teas of your temple, but it's the best tea we have in Gu Mo City, and the taste is quite good. Do have a sip."
Yang Haoran spoke with a smile, and after finishing, he didn't forget to make an inviting gesture towards the Black Talisman Master.
If this had been earlier, the Black Talisman Master would certainly not have touched the tea. After all, he was here to confront Yang Haoran, not to drink tea and chat. He wasn't in the mood to drink tea with Yang Haoran, nor did he think highly of Gu Mo City's humble tea.
But now it was different. Although Yang Haoran's flattery hadn't made him burst with joy, it had at least made him feel quite comfortable. Moreover, he found Yang Haoran rather agreeable to the eye, so he didn't refuse, picking up the teacup and taking a delicate sip.
Setting down the teacup, the Black Talisman Master nodded slightly, then said expressionlessly,
"This tea is. . . passable."
Whether the Black Talisman Master was trying to show off or genuinely thought the tea was merely passable, Yang Haoran didn't care in the slightest, nor did he take it to heart.
"If the Divine Emissary doesn't fancy this tea, you're welcome to try other specialties from Gu Mo City. I'm confident there will be something to your liking. Whatever catches your eye, please, just say the word. Quantity is no issue; I'll immediately arrange for someone to prepare it for you. Consider it a small personal gift from me to the Divine Emissary."
Yang Haoran looked at the Black Talisman Master, speaking with a faint smile. After his words fell, he too picked up his teacup and took a gentle sip.
Upon hearing this, a smile once again appeared on the Black Talisman Master's face, and the look he directed at Yang Haoran was no longer filled with hostility as it had been before.
"Heh, to be honest, before I met Divine Emissary Yang, I had no good impression of you, not even a speck of it. Now that I've met you, I realize I had some prejudice against Divine Emissary Yang. Although your appearance is nothing special, the aura you exude makes me feel very comfortable. I can't help but feel a certain fondness for you now."
The Black Talisman Master's words didn't cause any change in Yang Haoran's expression, but at this moment, his internal emotions underwent a shift.
It wasn't that the Black Talisman Master's words had made him feel any fondness in return. On the contrary, he harbored not a shred of goodwill towards this Black Talisman Master. The reason for the change in his inner emotions was that the Enchantment Art he cultivated had been passively triggered, and his internal emotional state shifted from its previous calm to surprise.
"Heh, this situation, this person. . . This Enchantment Art triggered at the perfect moment. It seems even heaven is helping me."
Yang Haoran chuckled inwardly. With the Black Talisman Master having fallen under his Enchantment Art, the ensuing trouble would be much easier to handle. The methods he had originally prepared in advance were now completely unnecessary to use on this Black Talisman Master, for it would be far too wasteful to employ them on the Black Talisman Master in his current state.
Yang Haoran didn't let his inner delight show on his face. The Black Talisman Master naturally didn't notice anything amiss, much less realize that he had unwittingly fallen into Yang Haoran's trap. Although the Enchantment Art wasn't a technique Yang Haoran had actively deployed, as a cultivator of the Enchantment Art, and with the Black Talisman Master having been affected by it, it could indeed be said that he had fallen prey to Yang Haoran's machinations.
"Heh, my appearance has been commented on by more than one person, but there's nothing I can do about it; it's natural, and I can't change it. Compared to the Divine Emissary, I fall far, far short in this regard, completely on a different level, one might say. The Divine Emissary possesses sword-like brows and star-like eyes, a truly handsome and rare visage. It's the kind of appearance I dream of having. I imagine countless individuals of the opposite sex have already succumbed to the Divine Emissary's charm."
Yang Haoran spoke with a faint smile, and hearing these words, the Black Talisman Master was absolutely overjoyed, bursting into uncontrolled laughter, looking very pleased.
"Hahahahaha, Divine Emissary Yang truly has keen insight, such sharp discernment! To think you saw even that. It seems trying to hide any secrets from Divine Emissary Yang would be quite difficult!"
The Black Talisman Master laughed heartily, and the smile on Yang Haoran's face deepened a little in kind.
Yang Haoran wasn't about to shut up just because the Black Talisman Master was happy. He felt this was an excellent opportunity; if he didn't strike while the iron was hot, it would be a huge waste. Any words spoken later would have a much diminished effect. So, after the Black Talisman Master's voice faded, he continued to speak with a smile.
"Heh, although there's a vast difference between the Divine Emissary's charisma and my own, with one like heaven and the other like earth, there's one thing in which I am exactly like the Divine Emissary."
Yang Haoran paused, and the Black Talisman Master, hearing this, couldn't help but ask with a laugh,
"Hahahaha, Divine Emissary Yang, tell me, in what way are we alike?"
Yang Haoran didn't keep him in suspense, immediately replying with a smile,
"The feeling of goodwill is the same. When I first saw the Divine Emissary, a strong sense of goodwill also blossomed within my heart, and it was incredibly intense. As for whether this goodwill stems from the Divine Emissary's appearance, or from the aura exuded from within, I truly can't say. Perhaps it's a bit of both, or perhaps it has no relation to either—it's quite profound."
These words were utterly shameless; even Yang Haoran himself felt a bit nauseated by them. However, in order to completely resolve this troublesome matter without deploying a single soldier, he felt that even if it was a bit disgusting, what needed to be said still had to be said.
"Haha, Divine Emissary Yang is right. This feeling of goodwill is indeed profoundly mysterious and hard to grasp. Some people, no matter how much time you spend with them, you can barely feel any goodwill towards them, yet others, you've only met once, and the goodwill is extraordinarily strong. To explain how this happens, who could truly say?"
The Black Talisman Master responded with hearty laughter, and Yang Haoran nodded, agreeing with the Black Talisman Master's sentiment.
"Heh, if I had known earlier that the Divine Emissary and I would hit it off at first sight, I would surely have waited for your arrival in advance at the temple entrance today, ready to greet you with the most solemn ceremony of our Gu Mo City Underworld Division. It's just a pity I don't possess the gift of foresight and didn't know our acquaintance would unfold this way. Otherwise, I wouldn't have used such a forceful tone when speaking with the Divine Emissary earlier, which almost led to a conflict between us. Thankfully, the Divine Emissary is magnanimous and didn't take offense, otherwise, how could we be chatting so happily like this now? You and I would have also missed out on a newfound friend with whom we share such instant rapport."
Yang Haoran's words were even more shameless than his previous ones; he even proactively elevated their relationship to one of instant rapport.
However, the Black Talisman Master showed no aversion whatsoever; in fact, he strongly agreed with Yang Haoran's assertion. This was evident from his ceaselessly nodding head and his beaming face.
At this moment, the Black Talisman Master had been utterly ensnared by Yang Haoran's charm. His current state was not only due to being hit by Yang Haoran's Enchantment Art, but also largely due to his own personality. Flattered by Yang Haoran's torrent of praise, he lost all sense of direction, even forgetting the primary purpose of his visit, throwing it completely to the back of his mind!
"Hahahahaha, Divine Emissary Yang, there's no need to be so formal. Didn't we avoid a fight? Regardless of how it started, the outcome is good, isn't it? Oh, by the way, allow me to introduce myself first. My name is Gao Xinxing."
Comments