The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 1534: What to Do?

What to Do? . . .

Upon hearing the name Shui Zhongliu, Cha-Eun Xiao maintained an outward facade of composure and nonchalance. It was essential for him to project an aura of arrogance, concealing the fact that he had limited knowledge about the two men before him. He vaguely recalled their names from the ranking list, but any detailed understanding of their reputation remained elusive. With a slight nod and a placid expression, he responded, "Oh, I see. That is surprising..."

His response was delivered casually, without the overt excitement or admiration that might have been expected. This left the two men and the others present in a state of bewilderment. They couldn't help but feel that Cha-Eun Xiao's choice of words was a rather unconventional response to individuals of such renown. It seemed more like a statement of intrigue rather than praise.

Yet, Cha-Eun Xiao swiftly redirected the conversation, reasserting his authority. He laid down the terms for their interaction, making it clear that those seeking his assistance must adhere to his rules. With a composed demeanor, he stated, "If you don't want to follow my rules, you can go. It makes no difference to me."

Master Xiao, eager to resolve the matter, inquired about the conditions Cha-Eun Xiao had in mind. In response, Cha-Eun Xiao revealed his first demand with a smile and a simple gesture, raising two fingers. "First, two hundred thousand purple spirit coins. No bargain."

Master Xiao's expression contorted, struggling to maintain his composure. The exorbitant figure was four times the expected price. This was merely the initial request, with more to follow. His internal thoughts couldn't help but betray his exasperation.

Maintaining his calm, Master Xiao inquired about the second condition, curious to see just how high the stakes would rise. However, when Cha-Eun Xiao revealed his second request, it left both Master Xiao and the members of the Monarch's Hall taken aback.

Cha-Eun Xiao, with a nonchalant tone, requested a performance of Master Xiao's renowned musical skills. He proposed that Master Xiao play a song for his assembled group. The unexpected request left Master Xiao wide-eyed and stunned. The members of the Monarch's Hall were equally shocked, for this was not what they had anticipated. The young lord's demand was not only unexpected but also exceptionally valuable.

Questions and dissenting voices filled the air. People couldn't understand why Cha-Eun Xiao, who had come to create trouble, would request something of such significance. The Monarch's Hall members questioned whether it was a reasonable demand, while the perplexed Master Xiao bluntly expressed his concerns. He emphasized the substantial value of his performances and the steep price that audiences typically paid to hear him play.

This exchange further stoked the flames of frustration and anger within the Monarch's Hall members. They couldn't comprehend why a mere vertical bamboo flute player was being treated as if he were an irreplaceable treasure.

Undeterred, Cha-Eun Xiao smiled and responded, "I do not know how much it costs for your performance. I don't care. I know one thing: if you don't do it, you won't get the Cosmos Iron." He added a veiled threat, "I promise, you won't find Cosmos Iron anywhere else except in the five royal cities. No matter how much you're willing to pay, you won't be able to obtain it."

Master Xiao's anger was palpable as he accused Cha-Eun Xiao of bullying and complained that this was too much. In response, Cha-Eun Xiao maintained his calm and declared that if they couldn't come to an agreement, they could simply part ways.

However, just as the situation seemed to be reaching an impasse, a sudden interruption halted the proceedings, leaving the fate of the Cosmos Iron hanging in the balance.

Master Xiao had invested a considerable amount in acquiring the Brocade Steel and the Feather Bronze. After all that effort and expense, he required just one more piece of Cosmos Iron to complete his collection. Giving up now was out of the question. If this young Master Cha returned to the Cha Clan with the message, it would undoubtedly become near impossible for anyone in the world to obtain Cosmos Iron.

While some might dare to challenge Cha Hongchen, Master Xiao wasn't willing to take on that risk. The thought of becoming a target for the Cha Clan's resurgence was not something he could afford. The Cha Clan, which had been absent for a hundred thousand years, seemed poised for a triumphant return, and no one in their right mind wanted to cross paths with them at this moment.

Master Xiao appeared to grasp the situation, sensing that Cha-Eun Xiao might be leveraging this situation to bolster the Cha Clan's authority. He contemplated the implications of being in the crosshairs and refrained from making any hasty decisions.

With an air of humility and sincerity, Master Xiao pledged, "I promise. I will grant both your requests. However, Brother Cha, there is one question..."

Cha-Eun Xiao, still wearing a faint frown, inquired, "You've already agreed. What question do you have?"

Master Xiao, wearing an expression of earnestness, replied, "I do have a question, please. You've asked me to perform the song, and I will. However, I need to have a high-quality vertical bamboo flute to deliver the performance effectively. Furthermore, I can only play this specific song once a year. Attempting a second rendition within the same year would deplete all my vital energy, leading to my death..."

He emphasized the technicalities involved, earnestly conveying the importance of these conditions. It was evident that Master Xiao was not merely trying to gain an advantage; he was addressing the practical challenges he faced.

Cha-Eun Xiao, maintaining his stern demeanor, pressed further, "So, what solution do you propose, Master Xiao?"

The challenge of finding a solution weighed heavily on Master Xiao's mind. He understood that securing the last piece of metal for his vertical bamboo flute was paramount, yet the current impasse left him anxious. A lack of clarity on how to proceed intensified his discomfort.

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