Legend of The Young Master

Chapter 96: Merchant Zhu Visits

Farming was going to be a long-term investment. Wuyi did not plan to depend solely on the farm of Sylvaris Dewroot to enhance his influence in the region. Huanghou and Kaliyuan, being among the largest trade zones for the desert and central areas, were eyed not just by traders but by many robbers and attackers as well. Sometimes, competitive traders even hired people to rob their competitors.

Wuyi planned to leverage these situations to his advantage.

After assigning Yun Ming with the task, Wuyi moved onto his next project. He called the wealthy merchant Zhu Dexin, to whom Wuyi had paid a hefty sum to buy a noble title. Wuyi knew this merchant was reliable. While Wuyi was away saving the two brutes, merchant Zhu had properly watched over the trades of Wuyi's new clan and Wuyi's estate.

Although this merchant could be easily reached, there was no sign of his clan member from whom Wuyi had bought the noble title.

When Zhu Dexin arrived, he was surprised to see the changes in the manor of the Qingshan clan. He had seen the manor in the past, but now, as the familiar silhouette of the manor came into view, a wave of astonishment washed over him. Gone was the aura of neglect that once shrouded the manor; in its place stood a testament to rejuvenation and grandeur.

Having enough gold, Wuyi did not hesitate to spend it to afford the best luxuries for his manor.

An ornate traditional archway marking the entrance to the manor had been meticulously restored. The variety of designs carved into its woodwork seemed to dance in the morning light, their details sharp and commanding. The courtyard, once a picture of disarray, now boasted an arrangement of smooth stones, leading in a dignified path towards the main hall

As Zhu Dexin made his way through the gardens of the manor, the transformation was even more profound. The gardens, which had wilted under years of neglect, were now vibrant with life, transformed into an imperial style. Manicured lawns stretched out, punctuated by serene koi ponds with arched bridges inviting contemplation.

Willows whispered in the gentle breeze, their leaves caressing the water's surface in a dance of tranquility.

The main hall itself, a large, two-story structure with elegantly curving roofs, stood proudly at the center of the estate. Its jade-green tiles shimmered in the sunlight, complementing the natural beauty of the surroundings. Intricate wooden lattices framed the large windows, now clear and inviting the warmth of the sun into the spacious interior. Inside, the transformation continued.

The once-dim hallways and antechambers were now alive with the rich heritage of the region. Hanging scrolls, masterful calligraphy, and historical paintings adorned the walls, each telling a story of the estate's storied past.

The audience chamber, where Wuyi was going to meet Merchant Zhu, was particularly special. Red columns rose to meet the high ceiling, and a grand tapestry depicting a mythical desert beast dominated the back wall, symbolizing power and prosperity.

The Manor's beauty was grand. But upon entering, what truly captured his attention and stirred a sense of awe was the sight of around twenty Qi Warriors standing guard around the manor. The last time Zhu Dexin had met Wuyi, he had around twelve Qi warriors with him; now, the number seemed to have doubled. Their presence alone was enough to deter even the biggest of clans in Huanghou.

No clan could cultivate such a large number of Qi warriors so quickly unless they were wealthy beyond measure.

For Zhu Dexin, a man of considerable wealth and influence himself, this was an eye-opener. Despite his riches, he had managed to employ only two Qi Warriors across his extensive business empire. Moreover, these warriors asked for a hefty sum for their services and were merely at the Qi Initiate level two and three.

The merchant had brought one of these two Qi Warriors with him on this visit, a decision that now seemed almost modest in comparison. They were awaiting the Young Master's arrival when the Qi Warrior, with a hint of disbelief in his voice, leaned in to whisper to Zhu Dexin.

He revealed that the warriors guarding the manor they passed through were at least Qi initiates level five or above, and two of the warriors seemed to be at least at the Qi adept level. This revelation sent a ripple of shock through Zhu Dexin. This discovery made them wonder how powerful this young master was; he could basically take down a clan alone with this number of Qi warriors.

The merchant did not have to wait long. Wuyi met with Merchant Zhu in the audience chamber.

Beside Wuyi sat a man with an official demeanor, who introduced himself as Xuebi. Wuyi had taken the liberty to help Xuebi cultivate too. With his statues, it was not very difficult for Wuyi to help anyone reach the Qi initiate level. It was the Qi adept stage where the real challenge began. Xuebi, now at the Qi Initiate level, remained silent after his introduction.

Wuyi initiated the conversation with focused inquiries. "Tell me about the trade dynamics in Kaliyuan and Huanghou. What businesses are flourishing, and which are not?"

Zhu Dexin, well-versed in these matters, provided detailed insights. "In Kaliyuan, rare metals from the desert are highly sought after. In Huanghou, it's mostly about clothes and spices."

Wuyi smiled and spoke, "What about cultivation herbs?"

Zhu Dexin went wide-eyed at first, then nodded, understanding what Wuyi meant.

"And the top traders in these areas? Who are the competitors?" Wuyi probed further.

"Ah, in Huanghou, I'm well-known merchant but not for cultivation herbs. In Kaliyuan, the competition is fierce for cultivation herbs trading if this is what we plan to trade in. The Jinxiu and Haoling Clans are strong in Huanghou, which you might already know.

In Kaliyuan, there are four major clans – the Liangshi, who trade in special metals used by cultivators; the Yuenfeng, dealing in exotic beast material; the Huanzhu, known for their silk; and the Xiangyu, masters of rare herbs."