Chapter 1158: The Art Of Gift Giving

After waiting for a few moments, fine wine was indeed delivered. Bao Congxin was completely baffled. Only after repeatedly confirming that it was free of charge did he dare to return.

Could those two sect leaders actually be genuine?

The more he thought about it, the more plausible it seemed, yet he still couldn't fully believe it. Bao Congxin muttered to himself the entire way back, his mind a jumbled mess.

As soon as he entered the courtyard gate.

The three men who had been chatting and laughing turned their heads at the sound.

Luo Pengfei even smiled and bowed, his address becoming more and more natural.

"Thank you, Brother Bao!"

(⊙_⊙)??

Bao Congxin's heart skipped a beat, and he nearly dropped the wine!

He quickly placed the wine on the table and clasped his fists, trembling.

Involuntarily, he responded, "Brother Luo, you're too kind."

As soon as the words left his mouth, he regretted them deeply.

His heart instantly leaped to his throat!

This is bad, this is bad...

The other party might be a sect leader, and I just called him "brother." Am I courting death?!

In the past, Luo Pengfei would indeed have been boiling with murderous intent.

Damn it.

I, a dignified Heaven-rank sect leader, am being called "brother" by you? Do you think you're that important?!

But he already knew about Bao Congxin's relationship with Yi Feng.

So he didn't mind.

This "brother" was a sign of their connection, and Luo Pengfei found it quite pleasing to the ear, feeling a sense of achievement for having gained the upper hand.

When Bao Congxin looked over in fear.

He saw "Sect Leader Luo" nodding with a smile, appearing very satisfied and friendly.

He was utterly dumbfounded.

Standing there in a daze, he began to question his entire life.

As the wine was opened, the laughter in the courtyard grew louder.

Seeing that Mr. Yi was in a good mood, Luo Pengfei felt quite pleased with himself, secretly proud of his cleverness.

Feeling smug, he glanced at Xu Baichuan.

"Brother Xu, you didn't come empty-handed, did you? That wouldn't be very hospitable."

This gift-giving.

It was impossible for everyone to be happy. It was a life-and-death struggle. From the moment they entered the inn and met Yi Feng, this internal competition had already begun.

The profound implications of his words drew everyone's attention. Xu Baichuan stroked his beard with a smile.

"Hehe..."

"This old man has nothing of value. How could I dare to embarrass myself in front of Brother Luo?"

Luo Pengfei nodded with a smile.

This old fox, today he's showing some self-awareness.

Knowing that he had little information about Mr. Yi, it was difficult to cater to his preferences, so he simply gave up.

This old fox, even he has his day.

From now on, among the major sects, only I will stand supreme!

While Luo Pengfei was secretly pleased.

Xu Baichuan suddenly changed the subject.

"However, this old man is not one to be impolite."

"I see that this courtyard is a bit too simple. It must be inconvenient for Mr. Yi and Brother Bao to live here. I happen to have a small residence that's been vacant. If Mr. Yi doesn't mind, I hope you can stay there for a few days as a token of my respect."

As soon as he finished speaking, Luo Pengfei's eyes widened.

Old thief!

He's offering a house?!

Although it's not a valuable item, would Mr. Yi really need it?

Luo Pengfei quickly looked at Yi Feng.

Seeing that Yi Feng didn't immediately respond, he felt somewhat relieved.

Mr. Yi is such a lofty figure. Since he chose to stay in this inn so low-key, how could he care about his accommodations? This old fox is also out of luck. His clever plan is likely to fall flat!

As the two waited, Yi Feng indeed declined politely.

"You're too kind. We're doing fine here."

Yi Feng also wanted to live more comfortably.

But they had just met. No matter how polite and hospitable the other party was, he couldn't just move into their house.

Xu Baichuan nodded upon hearing this and glanced at Bao Congxin.

"That little house of mine has been vacant for nearly a hundred years. You and Brother Bao can stay there without any issue. This old man has always enjoyed making friends and helping others."

"Living there would be much better than staying in this chaotic inn. You could also take care of the house. It's a kind gesture from me and a win-win situation."

"Even if you don't want to, Brother Bao can stay there!"

"Mr. Yi, there's no need to decline."

Yi Feng was somewhat tempted.

Indeed, as Old Man Xu said, it was a win-win situation.

Even if he left in the future.

Bao Congxin could look after the house for them, which would be a good place to stay, much better than working as a cook and paying rent here.

Such thoughtful sincerity and kindness were truly rare.

If it really came to it, he could treat them to a meal as thanks. Reciprocity was only proper.

After weighing the pros and cons, Yi Feng couldn't refuse and risk offending them.

"In that case, I'll accept your kindness. Thank you, Old Man Xu."

Xu Baichuan smiled and responded humbly.

"Not at all, Mr. Yi is too kind."

This works?

Mr. Yi actually agreed to such a proposal. Doesn't that give the old fox an opportunity? And upon closer thought, given the old fox's style, the house he's offering couldn't possibly be ordinary!

Luo Pengfei was greatly surprised and had a bad premonition.

He smiled and probed, "Brother Xu, where is this residence of yours?"

Xu Baichuan stroked his beard with a smile.

"It's in the southern city, in a quiet environment. If Mr. Yi and Brother Bao have no urgent matters, you can head there now."

Hearing this, Luo Pengfei's heart skipped a beat.

Southern city!

Hiss.

Could it be?

Is this old fox really going all out?!

While Luo Pengfei was shocked and suspicious.

Yi Feng looked at Bao Congxin.

"Brother Bao, shall we go take a look?"

Bao Congxin was jolted awake, completely at a loss!

"Let's... let's follow your lead, Benefactor..."

His life experience was utterly useless at this moment. It felt like all these years had been wasted. And now, thinking that the people before him might be two sect leaders, he didn't dare say another word.

Seeing that they were about to leave, Luo Pengfei's premonition grew even worse.

He excused himself and bowed to Yi Feng.

"Mr. Yi, you and Brother Bao can pack up. We'll wait for you outside the inn."

With that, he pulled Xu Baichuan out of the backyard.

"Brother Xu!"

"Is the small residence you mentioned the Snow Lake Retreat?!"

Xu Baichuan smiled and narrowed his eyes. "Exactly."

"Brother Xu, are you really determined to compete with me? But Mr. Yi's temperament is hard to gauge. Even if you're willing to go all out, it doesn't mean you'll truly win his favor!" Luo Pengfei gritted his teeth in anger.

The more he spoke, the more jealous he became. Luo Pengfei coldly warned.

"Brother Xu, don't say I didn't warn you. If you fail to please Mr. Yi and end up angering him, causing me to fail as well, I'll hold you accountable!"

Facing Luo Pengfei's threat, Xu Baichuan's smile grew even wider.

"Hehe."

"Brother, there's no need to be angry. This old man has it under control."

"Mr. Yi and Bao Congxin have a close relationship. By offering the residence in Bao Congxin's name, I'm not shooting in the dark. I have a clear plan."

With steady steps, Xu Baichuan turned back with a smile.

"Speaking of which, I should thank Brother Luo for paving the way."

"If you hadn't given a gift first, it would have been hard for me to see their relationship. Gift-giving is a great art. It's not about how valuable the gift is, but about giving something that truly touches the heart."

"Brother Luo, you're still young. Watch and learn."

"Hehe..."

Watching the old man walk away with a faint smile, Luo Pengfei gritted his teeth in anger!

"Old fox!"

"What a clever move, using even me as a stepping stone!"

The more he thought about it, the more humiliated and angry he became. Luo Pengfei, filled with jealousy and hatred, angrily flicked his sleeve.

Then, with a murderous aura, he strode through the main hall, startling all the guests into frozen silence!

By the time Yi Feng and Bao Congxin walked out.

The main hall was full of people, all observing proper etiquette. Not a single person dared to speak out of turn. The innkeeper and waiters stood respectfully by the counter with apologetic smiles.

Even though it was a lowly inn, it had the refined atmosphere of an elegant banquet.

Bao Congxin's palms were sweating with fear!

In all his years at the inn, he had never seen such a scene.

The identities of those two were most likely genuine!

The more Bao Congxin thought about it, the more frightened he became, his face turning pale.

Seeing his nervous and stiff demeanor, Yi Feng didn't think much of it.

"Let's go. We'll take a look first."

This old brother must have never been anywhere else and is a bit scared.

A thousand words are not as good as seeing it with your own eyes. Only by letting him meet more good people can we change the distorted worldview formed over the years and help him stand tall with confidence.

When they stepped out of the small shop.

The two sect leaders had been waiting for some time. An ordinary spirit beast carriage was already prepared. The group boarded the carriage and set off, maintaining an extremely low profile, disappearing into the bustling streets like ordinary cultivators.

The innkeeper didn't dare to make a sound, not even showing his face.

No one would have thought that the carriage contained some of the island's top figures.

But in an alley.

The disguised Sixth Elder of the Mad Blade Sect, hiding his aura, witnessed the entire boarding process, his eyes gleaming with insight!

...

In the city.

At the Mad Blade Sect's main hall.

The Sixth Elder hurriedly returned and bowed.

"Reporting to the Sect Leader, I personally witnessed Xu Baichuan and Luo Pengfei paying their respects to Mr. Yi. They have prepared a carriage to take him away!"

"Sect Leader, should we also show our goodwill?"

The report echoed through the hall, and many elders looked anxious.

On the main seat.

Sect Leader Lu Renkuang remained calm and composed.

His gaze swept over the elders, ignoring their subtle expressions.

It stopped on the Grand Elder.

"Elder Song, this is your idea, isn't it?"

Elder Song quickly stood up and bowed.

"Sect Leader, forgive me!"

"This subordinate saw that Mr. Yi's cultivation is profound. I took the liberty of asking the Sixth Elder to investigate. It was all for the sake of the Sect Leader's greater plans. I have no personal motives. I hope the Sect Leader will understand!"

Hearing this, Lu Renkuang nodded slightly.

"Elder Song's loyalty is commendable, but our Mad Blade Sect is not one to curry favor with others!"

The elders were stunned and quickly stood up to bow.

"Sect Leader, please reconsider. That Mr. Yi is someone even the Nine Paths Venerable One treats with great respect. He's likely a fifth-rank expert!"

"If Xu and Luo manage to befriend him first, they could gain significant advantages!"

"The two elders speak wisely. If those two sects gain his support, their influence will surely grow!"

"Sect Leader, please think twice!"

The hall grew noisy, and Lu Renkuang's brows furrowed.

Yi Feng had a grudge with him over a treasure. For the sake of the greater good, he had already shown great restraint by lowering his head. This was already a significant concession.

He was still simmering with anger.

Hearing the elders constantly bring up his enemy, Lu Renkuang grew even more furious!

What made him even angrier was that the Grand Elder also spoke up directly.

"Sect Leader."

"Mr. Yi is indeed formidable. We cannot let those two sects befriend him first. As the saying goes, taking a step back leads to a broader view. I hope the Sect Leader can set aside personal grievances and think twice for the greater good!"

Nonsense about a broader view!

Taking a step back only makes you angrier!

Lu Renkuang almost cursed out loud. If it weren't for his lack of strength, he would have already lashed out. Now they wanted him to grovel before his enemy? Was he supposed to throw away all dignity?

No way!

Absolutely not!

Even though he was secretly gritting his teeth in anger, Lu Renkuang was, after all, the sect leader. He knew the Grand Elder meant well and naturally wouldn't actually curse out loud.

"Everyone speaks wisely."

"But this seat is not acting on impulse. I have my considerations."

"That Yi may have profound cultivation, but he's still an outsider. As the saying goes, a strong dragon cannot suppress a local snake. The greater situation on Sunshine Island is not something an outsider can change."

The Grand Elder wanted to speak further, but Lu Renkuang conjured a long blade.

The cold light intimidated the entire hall, and his face was filled with killing intent and pride!

"This seat founded this sect and has stood tall on Sunshine Island for over a thousand years, all thanks to this Heaven Blade. I have never stooped to flattery, and the disciples of the Mad Blade Sect should also have pride!"

"Anyone who dares to suggest currying favor with him will end up like this table!"

The cold light of the blade flashed, and the black table in front was reduced to splinters!

"Crack!"

The crisp sound shocked the entire hall into silence, and all the elders bowed their heads.

When the hall fell silent.

Lu Renkuang's anger subsided slightly, and he realized he had been a bit too harsh.

He looked around again and spoke in a calmer tone.

"Elders, there's no need to concern yourselves with this person."

"He stole the Soul-Calming Grass, so he's likely just a wandering cultivator with nothing to his name, albeit with high cultivation. Those two sects flattering him will only gain some superficial influence!"

"Do you think he'll share his cultivation with them?"

"Such an outsider is ultimately just a passerby. The affairs of Sunshine Island are determined by our own strength. Strengthening ourselves is the true path!"

Hearing this, many elders nodded in agreement.

"The Sect Leader is wise!"

Lu Renkuang then waved his sleeve and left, not wanting to say another word.

After the elders dispersed.

The hall was empty, leaving only the Grand Elder and the Sixth Elder looking at each other.

"What should we do? Are we really not going to make a move?"

"Ah, the Sect Leader is proud and unyielding. How can we subordinates go against him?"

"Thinking carefully, the Sect Leader's words make sense. That Yi doesn't seem like a wealthy senior. It's likely that Sect Leaders Xu and Luo are just wasting their efforts."

"Even so, Yi is still a fifth-rank expert. We can't be careless. Please keep an eye on him, Sixth Elder."

"Of course."

The two elders, filled with loyalty, sighed and left after discussing the matter.

...

Southern City.

Snow Lake Retreat.

On the misty lakeshore, green willows swayed.

Surrounded by a thousand-foot sea of mist, several exquisite courtyards were scattered around, appearing and disappearing in the sea of clouds, creating a scene of ethereal beauty beyond imagination.

The spirit beast carriage stopped in front of a residence.

Yi Feng and Bao Congxin got off the carriage one after another, standing stiffly with wide eyes.

Looking through the bamboo gate, they saw an endless view of fish ponds and pavilions, with carved railings connecting them. A seven-story carved tower stood among them, its colored glaze shining like a pearl.

At a glance, the immortal residence covered at least several acres!

The grandeur of the courtyard rivaled that of a celestial palace, yet it retained an elegant beauty.

If someone said this was the island lord's residence, Yi Feng wouldn't doubt it!

After staring for a few moments, he turned back in confusion.

"Brother Xu, are you sure you didn't make a mistake? This residence is quite large."

Xu Baichuan stroked his beard with a smile. "Mr. Yi, this is the small residence I mentioned. Please, come in and take a look!"

With that, the old man extended his hand in a warm invitation.

The two stepped inside, and just standing at the entrance, Yi Feng couldn't help but marvel. He thought to himself, as expected of a sect leader. The world of the wealthy truly exceeds imagination.

So rich.

So very rich!