Luo Jie couldn’t help but laugh. “She’s a Beast Smith Grandmaster. She’s a celebrity from the West Rune Sect—a Beast Smith Grandmaster who’s no older than 40 years old. After advancing, she morphed into a 20 year old. She’s very famous around here.”This was Guo Shier’s first time to see a female Grandmaster. He turned to Luo Jie and curiously asked, “Master, what’s her profession?”
“But she’s not combat-class,” added Qi Nanshan. “She’s no big deal. Shier is much stronger than her.”
Qi Nanshan’s standard was based on a person’s ability to fight. For him, any occupation that cannot be fight was rubbish.
Still, Guo Shier’s curiosity grew bigger. “What is her name?”
“She’s from the Wu clan, called Wu Yanyan,” said Luo Jie.
“Holy shit, her name is more vulgar than mine!” exclaimed Guo Shier.
Note: The characters ‘Wu’ and ‘Yan’ mean ‘stunning’ and ‘alluring.’
Wu Yanyan’s appearance was truly outstanding—a real knockout. Skin as white as snow, small red lips, and flowing black hair. She was wearing a big red satin ribbon brocade, which is a South Rune Sect specialty. In the northwest region, not many rich families can afford such a precious gown.
“Number plate 1, please come up with the items you want to trade,” she said. She was working as the host in this event.
The person holding that plate came up. “I want to forfeit my rights to trade,” he requested.
Wu Yanyan laughed. “You’re forfeiting? Well, fine. Then may the Grandmaster with number plate 2 come up for trading.”
This time, a very old man stood up, unsteady. Two little girls were supporting him on each side. They helped him slowly walk to the center of the venue.
Guo Shier’s jaw dropped. “This… this man is also a Grandmaster? He’s almost out of breath!”
“No, he should have a few more good years to live,” Luo Jie sighed.
The man introduced himself to the crowd. “I’m an old man from the West Rune Sect, Beast Caster Grandmaster, Zhao Quan.”
Very slowly, he then took three things out: a stone, a bone and a foot-long beast hide.
“Green shrimp jade, ancient Rune Bone, a foot of Earth Dragon skin. Please verify the items,” he said.
Wu Yanyan and another middle-aged man stepped forward to examine the goods.
“Green shrimp jade, excellent quality. Ancient Rune Bone, there’s a complete natural Ancient Rune. Earth Dragon skin, product quality is intact and the skin belongs to the very rare Earth Dragon family,” Wu Yanyan announced to the crowd.
“I hope to be able to exchange for beast Spirit Glyphs. I will prioritize attack-type Glyphs,” the old man said.
Wu Yanyan turned to the crowd. “Interested people can examine the items on stage.”
As expected, only a few people stood up.
Guo Shier stepped closer to his master. “These items are very generic, master,” he whispered.
Luo Jie smiled. “Not everyone has your good luck. These items are actually pretty good. However, they’re not enough to get a beast Spirit Glyph.”
Wu Yanyan then asked, “Is anyone going to trade?”
No one responded.
She repeated the question three times, yet no one responded.
“Old timer Zhao, do you have any intention to auction these items?” she asked the old man.
Zhao Quan was confused. Why was no one interested?
After some thought, he finally relented. “Okay, I’ll let you take the items for auction.”
He handed the three items to Wu Yanyan. An Inner Gate disciple went forward to receive the items, which will be sent to another smaller venue. There, more than a dozen big businessmen will be competing for these items in an auction.
Guo Shier realized what was going on. “Oh, so they would be exchanged for money and not precious materials?”
Luo Jie nodded. “He probably understood that he won’t be able to exchange them for a Glyph, so he just took this opportunity to exchange them for money. It would fetch a high price in the auction. He’s preparing for future generations.”
***
The event went on as usual.
One by one, the Grandmasters appeared on stage, each one hoping to exchange things they own for things they need.
“Number plate 18, kindly come up on stage,” said Wu Yanyan.
The man introduced himself. “West Rune Sect Beast Artificer Grandmaster, Chen Zhizhong,” he said.
Guo Shier knew this person.
Wu Yanyan motioned for the grandmaster to take out the items that he wanted to exchange. He took out a curved Rune engraved dagger.
“Rune engraved dagger, hehe!” he declared. “This is a dagger made from the teeth of an ancient Marked Beast. The markings are natural Ancient Runes. It is exceptionally sharp. General defensive Runes are no match for this dagger—they can’t stop it from puncturing. I would like to exchange this for Rare Grade materials. Only Rare Grade materials.”
Guo Shier’s eyes widened. He was very interested in the dagger. He himself owned a pure steel Rune-engraved dagger but was not very satisfied with it.
“Master,” he whispered to Lou Jie. “I’ll go up and see.”
Many Marked Warrior Grandmasters were also interested. Guo Shier stood up and went up the stage to join them.
His appearance attracted everyone’s attention.
“Child, please get off the stage,” Wu Yanyan said. “This is for Grandmasters only.” She then turned to the crowd and said, “Please, Grandmasters, manage your own followers. Don’t let them come up at random.”
Chen Zhizhong couldn’t help but laugh. He was very amused to see Guo Shier being belittled.
Guo Shier smiled sweetly. “Sister,” she said to Wu Yanyan. “With what eyes can you see that I’m not a Grandmaster?”
Wu Yanyan’s jaw dropped. “You’re a Grandmaster?”
This could not be possible, she thought. “Hey, this kid…” she said, looking for words. “Who can prove that you’re a Grandmaster, huh?”
Before she even finished speaking, Luo Jie, Qi Nanshan, Ying Mo, Luo Zhan, Xiao Feng and Luo Jing six Grandmasters stood up together, and shouted, “We can prove it.”
Wu Yanyan was startled and took a step back.
Chen Zhizhong got worried. He didn’t want a fuss and may cause disgrace to the West Rune Sect.
“Yanyan, stop it,” he hurriedly said. “His name is Guo Shier. He’s the youngest Artificer Grandmaster from the North Rune Sect.”
All the other Grandmasters present were shocked. Guo Shier was clearly a child—yet he has already advanced to Grandmaster Level. And not just any Grandmaster—he was an ArtificerGrandmaster. This kid managed to reach the highest levels of the the most difficult class to advance in.
For a few minutes, the audience was in an uproar.
“Grandpa Chen, Is this true?” Wu Yanyan asked in disbelief.
Chen Zhizhong nodded. “Yes. I don’t need to talk nonsense.”
Wu Yanyan suddenly squat down and hugged Guo Shier.
This confused him.
“My God! You’re a very young Grandmaster!” Wu Yanyan exclaimed. “I simply can’t believe it. Younger brother, tell elder sister. How old are you?”
In this realm, Guo Shier appeared adorable to older people. His little face has become white and rosy ever since eating the blood essence of an Earth Dragon Variant. His eyes were sparkling black. For adult women, his boyish charm can provoke maternal love.
Not waiting for Guo Shier to answer, Wu Yanyan kissed his face.
This stunned Guo Shier. His heart softened like tofu.
He struggled to get out of Wu Yanyan’s hug. Who knew this woman could be so strong?
(Note: I think Guo Shier is being squeezed to death because he is a cutie pie J)
Wu Yanyan held on. “Don’t be afraid,” she said. “Tell elder sister, how old are you?”
I’m afraid of nothing. But ugh, this woman has enormous strength. Guo Shier thought to to himself.
“Ten years old!” he finally blurted out.
He suddenly thought of a way to escape from her hug. “Granny Wu,” he addressed her. “Let me go.”
“Did you just call me Granny?” Wu Yanyan said. Her face suddenly turned green. “Call me elder sister! Am I that old?” she exclaimed angrily.
The whole audience roared with laughter.
Wu Yanyan was thick skinned enough and kept hugging him. “Call me elder sister, or I won’t let you go!” she demanded.
Guo Shier’s color was changing.
(Note: Guo Shier may be turning purple from being hugged too tight or just the lack of air.)
“Well, is elder sister married?” he asked, his voice crisp and loud.
“Married? Who’s married?” said Wu Yanyan puzzled.
Guo Shier said with a smile, “Well, you’re not married? Do you want to marry me?”
Wu Yanyan’s mind went blank. She didn’t understand what the little guy meant.
“Marry you?” she said. “That’s impossible.”
Guo Shier pretended to look around and said, “Impossible? Then why do you keep holding on to me?”
“Hey! This child!” Wu Yanyan exclaimed.
The audience once again laughed.
Chen Zhizhong wryly smiled, “Yanyan!”
Wu Yanyan let Guo Shier go.
She didn’t get angry even though she knew she was being played by the little guy. No one would a take ten-year-old child seriously. Because Guo Shier was too young, everybody would think anything he said was funny.
“Do you want to marry me or do you want to wait for your hair to grow? Hee hee hee,” she teased him back, touching his head.
(Note: Hair to grow? Are they talking about pubic hair?)
Guo Shier was suddenly speechless. This woman is ruthless! Ugh! She doesn’t respect a child’s human rights, he thought to himself.
Chen Zhizhong cleared his throat. “Well, please continue,” he said to the crowd.
The audience finally calmed down.
On stage, Guo Shier picked up the dagger and inspected it carefully.
It was very beautiful—ivory in color, with naturally engraved Runes. The blade was flat and had a slight curve. It had a very sharp end instead of a blade edge. The grip was made of rare, toughened wood wrapped in a fine thread of spider silk.
Guo Shier got off the stage to go back to his seat. He was in awe this dagger. He could see why so many other people were also interested.
Back in his seat, Guo Shier whispered to his Master to discuss the item. Luo Jie understood how much his apprentice liked this dagger.
“No problem, I’ll barter this item for you,” he said.
Luo Jie proceeded to use his negotiating skills to win the dagger. He traded several rare grade materials and some powerful Rune devices for it.
***
The other numbers were called and trading went on like usual.
Finally, it was Guo Shier’s turn.
Wu Yanyan stood on the stage and called the next number. “Will the Grandmaster with number plate 37 please come up on stage to trade.”
Guo Shier went up. “Hello, Granny Wu! It’s me again,” he teased
Wu Yanyan tried to laugh but couldn’t hide her displeasure. “Call me elder sister! Otherwise… hmmp!”
Guo Shier felt his scalp go numb. He could sense that she was genuinely annoyed. He better stop his wise-ass jokes.
“Okay, elder sister,” he relented, changing his tone.
Wu Yanyan faked a smile. “Well, it’s your turn.”
Guo Shier felt a cold chill in his heart. Her words were kind but felt…intimidating.
He stood in the center stage and started to introduce himself. “Grandmasters, ladies and gentlemen. Greetings everyone!”
He looked at the audience. “North Rune Sect Artificer Grandmaster Guo Shier. Ten years old this year,” he declared proudly to get everyone’s attention.
There were voices whispering in the field. Everyone already knew who he was as a result of the previous little skirmish with Wu Yanyan.
“Today, I brought three bottles, each with an ounce of blood. I would like to exchange them for a Spirit or Ancient Glyph,” he continued.
Suddenly, there was a clamor. The Grandmasters grew curious, knowing that blood can be the cheapest or most valuable commodity for Artificers.
The use of blood on Runes in this world was like gasoline on cars in Guo Shier’s previous world. Without all kinds of blood, an Artificer cannot be an Artificer.
Guo Shier leisurely took out three small crystal bottles.
He presented the first one.
“This is the blood of a Marked Bear after a sixteen-Rune Purification process. Not an ordinary Marked Bear from the grasslands, but a Marked Bear in the Secret Realm. There should be plenty of Grandmaster-level Rune Smiths who can discern the difference even though it’s a small amount of blood,” he said.
Guo Shier knew that while hunting Marked Bears within the Secret Realm can be difficult, some people manage to do it. This is why this small bottle of Marked Bear blood alone would not be very tempting, and exchanging it for a Spirit Glyph was almost impossible.
So he whipped out another bottle.
“This second bottle of blood is more precious. Hehehe! It’s from an Earth Dragon Variant found in the Secret Realm. A predecessor pointed out that this is a Rank 7 Marked Beast Variant. The blood also received a sixteen-Rune Purification process,” he explained.
A commotion erupted in the trading field. Blood from a few Marked Beasts were easy to ignore, but the emergence of blood from an Earth Dragon Variant certainly caught everybody’s attention.
Its value was tremendous.
Guo Shier continued, whipping out his third bottle.
“This last bottle of blood also came from a Secret Realm. It is the blood of a Marked Insect Variant—an Emerald Blade Mantis. After it was killed, a Grandmaster immediately purified the blood that came out.”
Many Grandmasters were visibly interested.
“That’s a total of three bottles of blood. Please verify them,” Guo Shier said, taking a step back.
Wu Yanyan walked up and smiled. “Little brother, you have a lot of good stuff. I’ll take a look.” She’s a Beast Smith Grandmaster who focuses on the production of items, after all. Of course she would understand the preciousness of these three bottles of blood.
She proceeded to inspect the bottles and could not help but be tempted by them.
“The most precious is the blood of the Earth Dragon Variant,” she declared. “It is well purified without a trace of loss. As for the blood of the Marked Insect Variant, it’s also a treasure. But, it would be for the best if a Grandmaster from the South Rune Sect identifies this. Hehehe!”
A middle-aged woman stood up. “I’ll do it!” she shouted from the field. “South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster, Lan Tianbao,” she introduced herself.
About a dozen of small bells were tied to her waist, making Ding! Ding! sounds with every step she took as she walked.
She then smiled at Guo Shier upon reaching the stage. “Little brother, sister would look at this bottle of blood from the Marked Insect Variant, okay?” she told him.
Her voice was soft and pleasing to hear—almost hypnotic.
Guo Shier nodded, “Please do so.”
Lan Tianbao held and shook the crystal bottle in front of her. She then stared at the contents within. “I didn’t think there were Marked Insect Variants in the Secret Realm,” she commented.
After inspecting it intently, she then put down the crystal bottle, “Very good! Even in our South Rune Sect, it’s very rare to find a such a pure blood of a Marked Insect Variant.”
Wu Yanyan turned to the crowd. “Those who want to trade for this item can come up and look.”
A few Master- and Grandmaster-level Rune Smiths and Artificer professionals came up and carefully examined the crystal bottles of blood.
Lan Tianbao stood still without moving, pondering about something. She then asked Guo Shier, “Little brother, I have an Insect Rune. Can I trade it for the blood of the Marked Insect Variant?”
Guo Shier shook his head. “No, elder sister. I want to trade if for Spirit Glyphs. If it’s any Glyph lower than Spirit-level, I’m not interested.”
Lan Tianbao moved closer to him and said softly, “This Insect Glyph of mine is an Ancient-level Insect Glyph. It’s better than a Spirit Glyph. It’s just that I want three ounces of blood of the Marked Insect Variant. Not just for one ounce.”
Guo Shier thought for a moment, then smiled. “Elder sister Lan, we can wait until the end of the trade fair to talk. How about it?”
Lan Tianbao can’t help but praise Guo Shier. “You’re really a clever child. That works for me. Elder sister will come and see you later.”
She was grinning as she went down the stage with a contented look. It was clear to her why the other party only took out a very small amount of blood from the Marked Insect Variant. It was to scope out people who have the strength and understanding to exchange for materials from a Marked Insect.
One Beast Smith Grandmaster tried offering a general-level Spirit Glyph in exchange for the three bottles of blood.
Guo Shier immediately rejected the offer. He wasn’t really interested in a trade. His purpose has been achieved.
“Since no one exchanged for the items, little brother, would you like to send them to the auction house?” Wu Yanyan asked.
Guo Shier blinked his eyes and smiled. “Elder sister, if I released these three bottles of blood into the auction, half of the Grandmasters here will go there. Stop teasing. Hehehe!”
Guo Shier proceeded to collect the three bottled of blood and quietly went back to his seat.
Luo Jie then went on the stage. He and Guo Shier were not the same. Luo Jie took out more items—a variety of Treasure Glyphs and Rune Devices that he wanted to exchange for materials.
The venue exploded with enthusiasm. Rune Devices were what Marked Warrior Grandmasters needed the most. The Treasure Rune would be most coveted by Caster Master professionals, since it would be their primary weapon. Even Grandmaster-level Casters would be interested because of the rarity of Spirit level Glyphs.
The only reason Guo Shier refused using Treasure Glyphs was because he already owned a very rare Innate Rune Orb.
Luo Jie took out top-quality items that the trade fair needed the most. As for the rare raw materials that he owned, he wasn’t not going to trade it. There wasn’t enough time.
Meanwhile, Guo Shier sat in peace and simply watched. He didn’t have to lend a helping hand to his master.
“Look! Old Timer took out a Rune Device,” Ying Mo whispered. “Even I’m tempted. Ugh! Unfortunately, I’m a pauper.”
Luo Zhan glanced at him.
Guo Shier also stared at him with a smile. “Uncle Ying Mo, if you have a favor to ask from me, just say it. Otherwise, I’ll pretend to not know anything,” he said.
Luo Zhan stifled a laugh.
“Hey Shier!” Ying Mo suddenly said with a wry smile. “You little brat!”
Guo Shier closed his eyes and immediately pretended to play dead.
Ying Mo was dumbfounded. He gently nudged Guo Shier, “Shier, don’t do this. Hey! Alright, alright…”
“You should speak directly. Old timer will not refuse,” said Guo Shier.
“I have no problem saying things. The problem is, no good thing ever comes out of my mouth. Hahaha! Shier, help me out,” Ying Mo prodded.
Guo Shier opened his eyes, “I told you already. Stop going around in circles. Don’t hesitate to ask. Don’t worry, master was originally going to make a batch of Rune Devices once we return back in the North Rune Sect. We had a rich harvest back in the Secret Realm, so master would not only produce a Rune Device for you—even Huo Bao and the rest of the Marked Warrior Adepts would get one. Since Huo Bao and the rest advanced, their previous Rune Devices are no longer appropriate for them.”
After Luo Jie’s turn ended, Wu Yanyan announced, “Today’s trading is now over. We’ll continue again tomorrow.”
Luo Jie was still surrounded by a lot of people who were trying to keep trading with him.
Guo Shier stood on the sidelines, grinning.
***
Lan Tianbao came over with two Insect Warrior Masters. “Little brother, how come you’re still here?” she asked.
Guo Shier smiled. “I was waiting for you.”
Lan Tianbao laughed. “So you were sure that I was going to come?”
“Well you’re here now, elder sister, aren’t you?”
They both laughed, teasing each other.
“Sister Lan, come over to our place tonight,” Guo Shier invited the lady. “I’ll prepare a special meal for you.”
Lan Tianbao got excited. “That would be nice. I’ll come over to visit you tonight.”
Guo Shier was showing his adorable side—the side of him that no one can despise.
Lan Tianbao left with the two Insect Warrior Masters.
***
Luo Jie finished talking with a group of people and went to Guo Shier’s side.
“Let’s go back,” he said to Guo Shier.
“Master, visit me tonight,” Guo Shier responded. “I’m going to cook something good. I also invited South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster Lan Tianbao over. She’ll probably be interested in the raw materials harvested from the Marked Insect Variant. Let’s see what she can exchange.”
Luo Jie laughed. “All right, master trusts your handiwork. Let’s go.”
…
That night, Lan Tianbao arrived at Guo Shier’s small courtyard. With her was a little girl. She was also accompanied by her two Insect Warrior Masters.
Upon arriving at the door, the little girl exclaimed, “Mother! I smell something good!”
Lan Tianbao also smelled a strange aroma. “This Shier is really interesting” she said, laughing.
“Mother, is he really a ten-year-old Grandmaster?” the girl asked.
“That’s right, it’s really amazing,” her mother replied.
“Wow. Ten years old!” the youngster said in astonishment. “That’s only two years older than Yingying. But Yingying is only an Insect Caster Apprentice. How and why is he so powerful?”
Lan Tianbao shook her head. “Yingying, mother doesn’t know.”
She then instructed the Insect Warrior Masters towards the door.
Because it was an official visit, and she was a Grandmaster of the South Rune Sect, Luo Jie assembled the whole team—from the Grandmasters to the Adepts—to greet their visitors.
The relationship between the four Sects was very strange.
The West Rune Sect and North Rune Sect often compete with each other secretly. The South Rune Sect and East Rune Sect were also in a similar situation.
But the interaction between the North-West Sect and South-East Sect was always friendlier.
Guo Shier welcomed Lan Tianbao, then introduced Luo Jie. “This is my Master,” he said.
“North Rune Sect, Artificer Grandmaster Luo Jie. I’m pleased to meet you,” Luo Jie declared.
Lan Tianbao smiled. “I would take the liberty to introduce ourselves. I am South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster, Lan Tianbao,” she stared. “And this is the little girl is Lan Yuying. She is eight years old this year. She’s an Insect Caster Apprentice.”
She then turned to her daughter and instructed, “Yingying, greet grandpa Luo and little uncle Shier.”
Little uncle Shier?!? Am I that old?!? Guo Shier said to himself.
Lan Yuying possessed the peculiar beauty of the Southerners. Although young, she already had the qualifications to be called a ‘beauty.’
“Hello, grandpa Luo! Hello, little uncle Shier! Hee hee!” she said sweetly.
She then looked at her mother and whispered, “Mother, Shier is only two years older than me. Why should he call him uncle?”
“She’s right. Just call me big brother,” Gup Shier responded.
Shyly, the little girl said, “Okay, Big brother Shier.”
***
Luo Jie instructed everyone to come to the living room.
Lan Yuying suddenly grabbed hold Guo Shier’s hand. Women from the South were always unrestrained—like men without disguise. The children were even more uninhibited especially at this young age. The little girl was simply curious; it was natural for her to hold Guo Shier’s hand, as she considered him to be another child.
Guo Shier also liked this silly little girl. He took her hand as they walked into the living room.
Preparing to eat, everyone sat cross-legged in front of a small table. The maids began to serve.
Guo Shier prepared several dishes including the boiled meat of an Earth Dragon Variant, the steamed meat of an Emerald Blade Mantis Variant, and a stir-fried Marked Bear belly. There were also braised ribs in brown sauce and pot-fired bamboo shoots soup. Southern people enjoyed spicy dishes, as Guo Shier learned from consulting Qi Nanshan.
That’s why Guo Shier deliberately grilled two spicy dishes. The boiled Earth Dragon meat and stir-fried bear were very fiery, while the others were relatively milder.
Lan Yuying was as curious baby. She deliberately sat Guo Shier’s side and dragged the small table over. “Big brother Shier, did you cook all these dishes?” she asked curiously.
Guo Shier laughed. “Yingying, try this boiled Earth Dragon meat. It’s very delicious.”
Lan Yuying tried a sip. “Wow! It is yummy! It’s better than my mother’s cooking!” She exclaimed.
Lan Tianbao smiled and shook her head. After eating a mouthful, she also had to give her praise. The flavor was very good. It was similar to the flavors of Southern home cooking, except that there was no such dish in her hometown.
Everyone was enjoying the feast when a servant came to Luo Jie and said softly, “There are guests who come to visit.”
Luo Jie was surprised. “Who can they be?” he murmured.
Luo Jie couldn’t help but laugh. “She’s a Beast Smith Grandmaster. She’s a celebrity from the West Rune Sect—a Beast Smith Grandmaster who’s no older than 40 years old. After advancing, she morphed into a 20 year old. She’s very famous around here.”This was Guo Shier’s first time to see a female Grandmaster. He turned to Luo Jie and curiously asked, “Master, what’s her profession?”
“But she’s not combat-class,” added Qi Nanshan. “She’s no big deal. Shier is much stronger than her.”
Qi Nanshan’s standard was based on a person’s ability to fight. For him, any occupation that cannot be fight was rubbish.
Still, Guo Shier’s curiosity grew bigger. “What is her name?”
“She’s from the Wu clan, called Wu Yanyan,” said Luo Jie.
“Holy shit, her name is more vulgar than mine!” exclaimed Guo Shier.
Note: The characters ‘Wu’ and ‘Yan’ mean ‘stunning’ and ‘alluring.’
Wu Yanyan’s appearance was truly outstanding—a real knockout. Skin as white as snow, small red lips, and flowing black hair. She was wearing a big red satin ribbon brocade, which is a South Rune Sect specialty. In the northwest region, not many rich families can afford such a precious gown.
“Number plate 1, please come up with the items you want to trade,” she said. She was working as the host in this event.
The person holding that plate came up. “I want to forfeit my rights to trade,” he requested.
Wu Yanyan laughed. “You’re forfeiting? Well, fine. Then may the Grandmaster with number plate 2 come up for trading.”
This time, a very old man stood up, unsteady. Two little girls were supporting him on each side. They helped him slowly walk to the center of the venue.
Guo Shier’s jaw dropped. “This… this man is also a Grandmaster? He’s almost out of breath!”
“No, he should have a few more good years to live,” Luo Jie sighed.
The man introduced himself to the crowd. “I’m an old man from the West Rune Sect, Beast Caster Grandmaster, Zhao Quan.”
Very slowly, he then took three things out: a stone, a bone and a foot-long beast hide.
“Green shrimp jade, ancient Rune Bone, a foot of Earth Dragon skin. Please verify the items,” he said.
Wu Yanyan and another middle-aged man stepped forward to examine the goods.
“Green shrimp jade, excellent quality. Ancient Rune Bone, there’s a complete natural Ancient Rune. Earth Dragon skin, product quality is intact and the skin belongs to the very rare Earth Dragon family,” Wu Yanyan announced to the crowd.
“I hope to be able to exchange for beast Spirit Glyphs. I will prioritize attack-type Glyphs,” the old man said.
Wu Yanyan turned to the crowd. “Interested people can examine the items on stage.”
As expected, only a few people stood up.
Guo Shier stepped closer to his master. “These items are very generic, master,” he whispered.
Luo Jie smiled. “Not everyone has your good luck. These items are actually pretty good. However, they’re not enough to get a beast Spirit Glyph.”
Wu Yanyan then asked, “Is anyone going to trade?”
No one responded.
She repeated the question three times, yet no one responded.
“Old timer Zhao, do you have any intention to auction these items?” she asked the old man.
Zhao Quan was confused. Why was no one interested?
After some thought, he finally relented. “Okay, I’ll let you take the items for auction.”
He handed the three items to Wu Yanyan. An Inner Gate disciple went forward to receive the items, which will be sent to another smaller venue. There, more than a dozen big businessmen will be competing for these items in an auction.
Guo Shier realized what was going on. “Oh, so they would be exchanged for money and not precious materials?”
Luo Jie nodded. “He probably understood that he won’t be able to exchange them for a Glyph, so he just took this opportunity to exchange them for money. It would fetch a high price in the auction. He’s preparing for future generations.”
***
The event went on as usual.
One by one, the Grandmasters appeared on stage, each one hoping to exchange things they own for things they need.
“Number plate 18, kindly come up on stage,” said Wu Yanyan.
The man introduced himself. “West Rune Sect Beast Artificer Grandmaster, Chen Zhizhong,” he said.
Guo Shier knew this person.
Wu Yanyan motioned for the grandmaster to take out the items that he wanted to exchange. He took out a curved Rune engraved dagger.
“Rune engraved dagger, hehe!” he declared. “This is a dagger made from the teeth of an ancient Marked Beast. The markings are natural Ancient Runes. It is exceptionally sharp. General defensive Runes are no match for this dagger—they can’t stop it from puncturing. I would like to exchange this for Rare Grade materials. Only Rare Grade materials.”
Guo Shier’s eyes widened. He was very interested in the dagger. He himself owned a pure steel Rune-engraved dagger but was not very satisfied with it.
“Master,” he whispered to Lou Jie. “I’ll go up and see.”
Many Marked Warrior Grandmasters were also interested. Guo Shier stood up and went up the stage to join them.
His appearance attracted everyone’s attention.
“Child, please get off the stage,” Wu Yanyan said. “This is for Grandmasters only.” She then turned to the crowd and said, “Please, Grandmasters, manage your own followers. Don’t let them come up at random.”
Chen Zhizhong couldn’t help but laugh. He was very amused to see Guo Shier being belittled.
Guo Shier smiled sweetly. “Sister,” she said to Wu Yanyan. “With what eyes can you see that I’m not a Grandmaster?”
Wu Yanyan’s jaw dropped. “You’re a Grandmaster?”
This could not be possible, she thought. “Hey, this kid…” she said, looking for words. “Who can prove that you’re a Grandmaster, huh?”
Before she even finished speaking, Luo Jie, Qi Nanshan, Ying Mo, Luo Zhan, Xiao Feng and Luo Jing six Grandmasters stood up together, and shouted, “We can prove it.”
Wu Yanyan was startled and took a step back.
Chen Zhizhong got worried. He didn’t want a fuss and may cause disgrace to the West Rune Sect.
“Yanyan, stop it,” he hurriedly said. “His name is Guo Shier. He’s the youngest Artificer Grandmaster from the North Rune Sect.”
All the other Grandmasters present were shocked. Guo Shier was clearly a child—yet he has already advanced to Grandmaster Level. And not just any Grandmaster—he was an ArtificerGrandmaster. This kid managed to reach the highest levels of the the most difficult class to advance in.
For a few minutes, the audience was in an uproar.
“Grandpa Chen, Is this true?” Wu Yanyan asked in disbelief.
Chen Zhizhong nodded. “Yes. I don’t need to talk nonsense.”
Wu Yanyan suddenly squat down and hugged Guo Shier.
This confused him.
“My God! You’re a very young Grandmaster!” Wu Yanyan exclaimed. “I simply can’t believe it. Younger brother, tell elder sister. How old are you?”
In this realm, Guo Shier appeared adorable to older people. His little face has become white and rosy ever since eating the blood essence of an Earth Dragon Variant. His eyes were sparkling black. For adult women, his boyish charm can provoke maternal love.
Not waiting for Guo Shier to answer, Wu Yanyan kissed his face.
This stunned Guo Shier. His heart softened like tofu.
He struggled to get out of Wu Yanyan’s hug. Who knew this woman could be so strong?
(Note: I think Guo Shier is being squeezed to death because he is a cutie pie J)
Wu Yanyan held on. “Don’t be afraid,” she said. “Tell elder sister, how old are you?”
I’m afraid of nothing. But ugh, this woman has enormous strength. Guo Shier thought to to himself.
“Ten years old!” he finally blurted out.
He suddenly thought of a way to escape from her hug. “Granny Wu,” he addressed her. “Let me go.”
“Did you just call me Granny?” Wu Yanyan said. Her face suddenly turned green. “Call me elder sister! Am I that old?” she exclaimed angrily.
The whole audience roared with laughter.
Wu Yanyan was thick skinned enough and kept hugging him. “Call me elder sister, or I won’t let you go!” she demanded.
Guo Shier’s color was changing.
(Note: Guo Shier may be turning purple from being hugged too tight or just the lack of air.)
“Well, is elder sister married?” he asked, his voice crisp and loud.
“Married? Who’s married?” said Wu Yanyan puzzled.
Guo Shier said with a smile, “Well, you’re not married? Do you want to marry me?”
Wu Yanyan’s mind went blank. She didn’t understand what the little guy meant.
“Marry you?” she said. “That’s impossible.”
Guo Shier pretended to look around and said, “Impossible? Then why do you keep holding on to me?”
“Hey! This child!” Wu Yanyan exclaimed.
The audience once again laughed.
Chen Zhizhong wryly smiled, “Yanyan!”
Wu Yanyan let Guo Shier go.
She didn’t get angry even though she knew she was being played by the little guy. No one would a take ten-year-old child seriously. Because Guo Shier was too young, everybody would think anything he said was funny.
“Do you want to marry me or do you want to wait for your hair to grow? Hee hee hee,” she teased him back, touching his head.
(Note: Hair to grow? Are they talking about pubic hair?)
Guo Shier was suddenly speechless. This woman is ruthless! Ugh! She doesn’t respect a child’s human rights, he thought to himself.
Chen Zhizhong cleared his throat. “Well, please continue,” he said to the crowd.
The audience finally calmed down.
On stage, Guo Shier picked up the dagger and inspected it carefully.
It was very beautiful—ivory in color, with naturally engraved Runes. The blade was flat and had a slight curve. It had a very sharp end instead of a blade edge. The grip was made of rare, toughened wood wrapped in a fine thread of spider silk.
Guo Shier got off the stage to go back to his seat. He was in awe this dagger. He could see why so many other people were also interested.
Back in his seat, Guo Shier whispered to his Master to discuss the item. Luo Jie understood how much his apprentice liked this dagger.
“No problem, I’ll barter this item for you,” he said.
Luo Jie proceeded to use his negotiating skills to win the dagger. He traded several rare grade materials and some powerful Rune devices for it.
***
The other numbers were called and trading went on like usual.
Finally, it was Guo Shier’s turn.
Wu Yanyan stood on the stage and called the next number. “Will the Grandmaster with number plate 37 please come up on stage to trade.”
Guo Shier went up. “Hello, Granny Wu! It’s me again,” he teased
Wu Yanyan tried to laugh but couldn’t hide her displeasure. “Call me elder sister! Otherwise… hmmp!”
Guo Shier felt his scalp go numb. He could sense that she was genuinely annoyed. He better stop his wise-ass jokes.
“Okay, elder sister,” he relented, changing his tone.
Wu Yanyan faked a smile. “Well, it’s your turn.”
Guo Shier felt a cold chill in his heart. Her words were kind but felt…intimidating.
He stood in the center stage and started to introduce himself. “Grandmasters, ladies and gentlemen. Greetings everyone!”
He looked at the audience. “North Rune Sect Artificer Grandmaster Guo Shier. Ten years old this year,” he declared proudly to get everyone’s attention.
There were voices whispering in the field. Everyone already knew who he was as a result of the previous little skirmish with Wu Yanyan.
“Today, I brought three bottles, each with an ounce of blood. I would like to exchange them for a Spirit or Ancient Glyph,” he continued.
Suddenly, there was a clamor. The Grandmasters grew curious, knowing that blood can be the cheapest or most valuable commodity for Artificers.
The use of blood on Runes in this world was like gasoline on cars in Guo Shier’s previous world. Without all kinds of blood, an Artificer cannot be an Artificer.
Guo Shier leisurely took out three small crystal bottles.
He presented the first one.
“This is the blood of a Marked Bear after a sixteen-Rune Purification process. Not an ordinary Marked Bear from the grasslands, but a Marked Bear in the Secret Realm. There should be plenty of Grandmaster-level Rune Smiths who can discern the difference even though it’s a small amount of blood,” he said.
Guo Shier knew that while hunting Marked Bears within the Secret Realm can be difficult, some people manage to do it. This is why this small bottle of Marked Bear blood alone would not be very tempting, and exchanging it for a Spirit Glyph was almost impossible.
So he whipped out another bottle.
“This second bottle of blood is more precious. Hehehe! It’s from an Earth Dragon Variant found in the Secret Realm. A predecessor pointed out that this is a Rank 7 Marked Beast Variant. The blood also received a sixteen-Rune Purification process,” he explained.
A commotion erupted in the trading field. Blood from a few Marked Beasts were easy to ignore, but the emergence of blood from an Earth Dragon Variant certainly caught everybody’s attention.
Its value was tremendous.
Guo Shier continued, whipping out his third bottle.
“This last bottle of blood also came from a Secret Realm. It is the blood of a Marked Insect Variant—an Emerald Blade Mantis. After it was killed, a Grandmaster immediately purified the blood that came out.”
Many Grandmasters were visibly interested.
“That’s a total of three bottles of blood. Please verify them,” Guo Shier said, taking a step back.
Wu Yanyan walked up and smiled. “Little brother, you have a lot of good stuff. I’ll take a look.” She’s a Beast Smith Grandmaster who focuses on the production of items, after all. Of course she would understand the preciousness of these three bottles of blood.
She proceeded to inspect the bottles and could not help but be tempted by them.
“The most precious is the blood of the Earth Dragon Variant,” she declared. “It is well purified without a trace of loss. As for the blood of the Marked Insect Variant, it’s also a treasure. But, it would be for the best if a Grandmaster from the South Rune Sect identifies this. Hehehe!”
A middle-aged woman stood up. “I’ll do it!” she shouted from the field. “South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster, Lan Tianbao,” she introduced herself.
About a dozen of small bells were tied to her waist, making Ding! Ding! sounds with every step she took as she walked.
She then smiled at Guo Shier upon reaching the stage. “Little brother, sister would look at this bottle of blood from the Marked Insect Variant, okay?” she told him.
Her voice was soft and pleasing to hear—almost hypnotic.
Guo Shier nodded, “Please do so.”
Lan Tianbao held and shook the crystal bottle in front of her. She then stared at the contents within. “I didn’t think there were Marked Insect Variants in the Secret Realm,” she commented.
After inspecting it intently, she then put down the crystal bottle, “Very good! Even in our South Rune Sect, it’s very rare to find a such a pure blood of a Marked Insect Variant.”
Wu Yanyan turned to the crowd. “Those who want to trade for this item can come up and look.”
A few Master- and Grandmaster-level Rune Smiths and Artificer professionals came up and carefully examined the crystal bottles of blood.
Lan Tianbao stood still without moving, pondering about something. She then asked Guo Shier, “Little brother, I have an Insect Rune. Can I trade it for the blood of the Marked Insect Variant?”
Guo Shier shook his head. “No, elder sister. I want to trade if for Spirit Glyphs. If it’s any Glyph lower than Spirit-level, I’m not interested.”
Lan Tianbao moved closer to him and said softly, “This Insect Glyph of mine is an Ancient-level Insect Glyph. It’s better than a Spirit Glyph. It’s just that I want three ounces of blood of the Marked Insect Variant. Not just for one ounce.”
Guo Shier thought for a moment, then smiled. “Elder sister Lan, we can wait until the end of the trade fair to talk. How about it?”
Lan Tianbao can’t help but praise Guo Shier. “You’re really a clever child. That works for me. Elder sister will come and see you later.”
She was grinning as she went down the stage with a contented look. It was clear to her why the other party only took out a very small amount of blood from the Marked Insect Variant. It was to scope out people who have the strength and understanding to exchange for materials from a Marked Insect.
One Beast Smith Grandmaster tried offering a general-level Spirit Glyph in exchange for the three bottles of blood.
Guo Shier immediately rejected the offer. He wasn’t really interested in a trade. His purpose has been achieved.
“Since no one exchanged for the items, little brother, would you like to send them to the auction house?” Wu Yanyan asked.
Guo Shier blinked his eyes and smiled. “Elder sister, if I released these three bottles of blood into the auction, half of the Grandmasters here will go there. Stop teasing. Hehehe!”
Guo Shier proceeded to collect the three bottled of blood and quietly went back to his seat.
Luo Jie then went on the stage. He and Guo Shier were not the same. Luo Jie took out more items—a variety of Treasure Glyphs and Rune Devices that he wanted to exchange for materials.
The venue exploded with enthusiasm. Rune Devices were what Marked Warrior Grandmasters needed the most. The Treasure Rune would be most coveted by Caster Master professionals, since it would be their primary weapon. Even Grandmaster-level Casters would be interested because of the rarity of Spirit level Glyphs.
The only reason Guo Shier refused using Treasure Glyphs was because he already owned a very rare Innate Rune Orb.
Luo Jie took out top-quality items that the trade fair needed the most. As for the rare raw materials that he owned, he wasn’t not going to trade it. There wasn’t enough time.
Meanwhile, Guo Shier sat in peace and simply watched. He didn’t have to lend a helping hand to his master.
“Look! Old Timer took out a Rune Device,” Ying Mo whispered. “Even I’m tempted. Ugh! Unfortunately, I’m a pauper.”
Luo Zhan glanced at him.
Guo Shier also stared at him with a smile. “Uncle Ying Mo, if you have a favor to ask from me, just say it. Otherwise, I’ll pretend to not know anything,” he said.
Luo Zhan stifled a laugh.
“Hey Shier!” Ying Mo suddenly said with a wry smile. “You little brat!”
Guo Shier closed his eyes and immediately pretended to play dead.
Ying Mo was dumbfounded. He gently nudged Guo Shier, “Shier, don’t do this. Hey! Alright, alright…”
“You should speak directly. Old timer will not refuse,” said Guo Shier.
“I have no problem saying things. The problem is, no good thing ever comes out of my mouth. Hahaha! Shier, help me out,” Ying Mo prodded.
Guo Shier opened his eyes, “I told you already. Stop going around in circles. Don’t hesitate to ask. Don’t worry, master was originally going to make a batch of Rune Devices once we return back in the North Rune Sect. We had a rich harvest back in the Secret Realm, so master would not only produce a Rune Device for you—even Huo Bao and the rest of the Marked Warrior Adepts would get one. Since Huo Bao and the rest advanced, their previous Rune Devices are no longer appropriate for them.”
After Luo Jie’s turn ended, Wu Yanyan announced, “Today’s trading is now over. We’ll continue again tomorrow.”
Luo Jie was still surrounded by a lot of people who were trying to keep trading with him.
Guo Shier stood on the sidelines, grinning.
***
Lan Tianbao came over with two Insect Warrior Masters. “Little brother, how come you’re still here?” she asked.
Guo Shier smiled. “I was waiting for you.”
Lan Tianbao laughed. “So you were sure that I was going to come?”
“Well you’re here now, elder sister, aren’t you?”
They both laughed, teasing each other.
“Sister Lan, come over to our place tonight,” Guo Shier invited the lady. “I’ll prepare a special meal for you.”
Lan Tianbao got excited. “That would be nice. I’ll come over to visit you tonight.”
Guo Shier was showing his adorable side—the side of him that no one can despise.
Lan Tianbao left with the two Insect Warrior Masters.
***
Luo Jie finished talking with a group of people and went to Guo Shier’s side.
“Let’s go back,” he said to Guo Shier.
“Master, visit me tonight,” Guo Shier responded. “I’m going to cook something good. I also invited South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster Lan Tianbao over. She’ll probably be interested in the raw materials harvested from the Marked Insect Variant. Let’s see what she can exchange.”
Luo Jie laughed. “All right, master trusts your handiwork. Let’s go.”
…
That night, Lan Tianbao arrived at Guo Shier’s small courtyard. With her was a little girl. She was also accompanied by her two Insect Warrior Masters.
Upon arriving at the door, the little girl exclaimed, “Mother! I smell something good!”
Lan Tianbao also smelled a strange aroma. “This Shier is really interesting” she said, laughing.
“Mother, is he really a ten-year-old Grandmaster?” the girl asked.
“That’s right, it’s really amazing,” her mother replied.
“Wow. Ten years old!” the youngster said in astonishment. “That’s only two years older than Yingying. But Yingying is only an Insect Caster Apprentice. How and why is he so powerful?”
Lan Tianbao shook her head. “Yingying, mother doesn’t know.”
She then instructed the Insect Warrior Masters towards the door.
Because it was an official visit, and she was a Grandmaster of the South Rune Sect, Luo Jie assembled the whole team—from the Grandmasters to the Adepts—to greet their visitors.
The relationship between the four Sects was very strange.
The West Rune Sect and North Rune Sect often compete with each other secretly. The South Rune Sect and East Rune Sect were also in a similar situation.
But the interaction between the North-West Sect and South-East Sect was always friendlier.
Guo Shier welcomed Lan Tianbao, then introduced Luo Jie. “This is my Master,” he said.
“North Rune Sect, Artificer Grandmaster Luo Jie. I’m pleased to meet you,” Luo Jie declared.
Lan Tianbao smiled. “I would take the liberty to introduce ourselves. I am South Rune Sect Insect Smith Grandmaster, Lan Tianbao,” she stared. “And this is the little girl is Lan Yuying. She is eight years old this year. She’s an Insect Caster Apprentice.”
She then turned to her daughter and instructed, “Yingying, greet grandpa Luo and little uncle Shier.”
Little uncle Shier?!? Am I that old?!? Guo Shier said to himself.
Lan Yuying possessed the peculiar beauty of the Southerners. Although young, she already had the qualifications to be called a ‘beauty.’
“Hello, grandpa Luo! Hello, little uncle Shier! Hee hee!” she said sweetly.
She then looked at her mother and whispered, “Mother, Shier is only two years older than me. Why should he call him uncle?”
“She’s right. Just call me big brother,” Gup Shier responded.
Shyly, the little girl said, “Okay, Big brother Shier.”
***
Luo Jie instructed everyone to come to the living room.
Lan Yuying suddenly grabbed hold Guo Shier’s hand. Women from the South were always unrestrained—like men without disguise. The children were even more uninhibited especially at this young age. The little girl was simply curious; it was natural for her to hold Guo Shier’s hand, as she considered him to be another child.
Guo Shier also liked this silly little girl. He took her hand as they walked into the living room.
Preparing to eat, everyone sat cross-legged in front of a small table. The maids began to serve.
Guo Shier prepared several dishes including the boiled meat of an Earth Dragon Variant, the steamed meat of an Emerald Blade Mantis Variant, and a stir-fried Marked Bear belly. There were also braised ribs in brown sauce and pot-fired bamboo shoots soup. Southern people enjoyed spicy dishes, as Guo Shier learned from consulting Qi Nanshan.
That’s why Guo Shier deliberately grilled two spicy dishes. The boiled Earth Dragon meat and stir-fried bear were very fiery, while the others were relatively milder.
Lan Yuying was as curious baby. She deliberately sat Guo Shier’s side and dragged the small table over. “Big brother Shier, did you cook all these dishes?” she asked curiously.
Guo Shier laughed. “Yingying, try this boiled Earth Dragon meat. It’s very delicious.”
Lan Yuying tried a sip. “Wow! It is yummy! It’s better than my mother’s cooking!” She exclaimed.
Lan Tianbao smiled and shook her head. After eating a mouthful, she also had to give her praise. The flavor was very good. It was similar to the flavors of Southern home cooking, except that there was no such dish in her hometown.
Everyone was enjoying the feast when a servant came to Luo Jie and said softly, “There are guests who come to visit.”
Luo Jie was surprised. “Who can they be?” he murmured.
