Our debut in this place was a complete success. Many people applauded us as soon as we finished the battles because supposedly we were matched with someone of a "higher level," as we both stated we were at level 40.
Not to mention our earnings, each of us made a hundred thousand gold coins from winning bets, as obviously we were the underdogs.
As for the combat arena ranks, they were very similar to what I remembered, and they go as follows: Iron < Copper < Silver < Gold < Amethyst < Sapphire < Ruby < Diamond. However, counting the points is quite a show as it becomes a big problem and things get very complicated.
So, from that moment on, I started fighting every day in this arena, even though it may sound illogical since we already have a training field in the sect. But by fighting here, we get accustomed to soul battles.
A week later, a lot of information came into my mind. It turns out one of my clones had finally found the power sect, so I decided to go and see him in a few days.
[Ding, new mission: Make the four sects that were supposed to join Tang San join you.]
....
"Yuroichi, I'll be busy in the next few days," I mentioned while we were having dinner.
"Where will you go?" she asked with uncertainty.
"I'll meet with some clans that will be very important for our sect, so I'll be out for a few days trying to recruit them.
"Alright, but be careful," she replied.
"Oh, without realizing it, you really seem like a good wife," I joked with a smile.
"Don't talk nonsense," she responded, startled, and I simply continued smiling to tease her even more.
The next day, I headed towards the location of the Power Clan, as they will be a crucial part of building my hidden weapons since their clan has great talent in blacksmithing.
Upon arriving at the territory where this clan was, I decided to rent a luxury carriage. Often, the way others treat you depends on your image, so I didn't think twice and told the driver to head towards the Power Clan.
"Xu Jiang, there's no need to hide in this place, I want you to be present as well," I commented while looking in a certain direction.
"It's alright, young master," she said calmly as she sat next to me. Over these years, we've spent a lot of time together, and I've learned to recognize when she's happy, even if she hides it well, and this was one of those moments.
As we chatted, we felt the carriage come to a stop right outside the clan. I asked the driver to inform them that we were looking for Tai Tan, the patriarch.
After a few minutes, a group of burly individuals arrived at the gate.
"I wonder what guest has come to our home," said the person who stood in front of the group.
Upon hearing that, I knew it was time to show myself. So, I simply teleported outside the carriage. When I stood in front of everyone, I could see various looks on their faces – surprise, fear, and astonishment.
"Mr. Tai Tan, my name is Feng Liang, and I've come to see you because I heard that your clan has great talent in blacksmithing. I'm here to discuss some business, so I wonder if you could let me in for a proper conversation," I said in a calm tone.
After a moment, Tai Niu, Tai Tan's son, nodded, as he too was surprised by my sudden appearance.
"Please follow me," Tai Niu exclaimed. He was the one who had been defeated by Tang San in the original novel.
"Let's go, Sister Xu," I said as I moved forward. But as soon as everyone heard my words, they realized that there was someone else besides me. I could sense the nervousness of some and the fascination of others upon seeing her.
"Who is she...?" Tai Niu asked with doubts.
"She's my guardian, so there's no need to worry," I calmly reassured them as we continued on our way. I could tell that Patriarch Tai Tan also became alert when he didn't sense her presence, realizing that her cultivation level far surpassed his.
Finally, we reached a large hall with a big table and four chairs on its sides. We all took our seats at the table. Present at this meeting were only Patriarch Tai Tan and his son, not counting me or Xu Jiang.
"So, what could we do for you, young man Feng?" the patriarch asked.
"Mr. Tai Tian, I've come for two fundamental things. Firstly, I want to create a sect, and I'll need a clan like yours to entrust the construction of various types of weapons that may interest you. That's why I've come to recruit you," I went straight to the point, knowing that people like him preferred directness.
"How dare you..." Just as Tai Niu was about to reject my proposal, his father stopped him and, trying to contain his anger, spoke, "What makes you think we would want to join you?"
"Firstly, if you join my sect, you can regain the same fame you had some years ago. Secondly, just like the other three clans that remained loyal to the 'Clear Sky Clan,' your economic situation is not in the best state, so I can also help you resolve that issue."
"So, I can offer you both the fame you once had and the financial support you need to maintain and develop your clan. Additionally, if you join my sect, I can solve the problems you have with the Wuhum Hall, as I know it has caused you many difficulties."
Although I hadn't yet made contact with the Spirit Hall, I had a way to handle this mess, so I decided to take the risk.
Upon hearing me, I noticed a fleeting trace of doubt in Tai Tan's unyielding eyes, but it quickly dissipated. It seems things will be a bit more challenging than I thought, but it doesn't matter as long as the results are the same, whether it takes a bit more time or less.
"What kind of sect do you want to create, and why should we trust you?" he asked.
"My sect will focus on..." I began explaining all the functions of my sect, including the corresponding fields and some weapons we will create for sale. I also showed them one of the weapons we were going to create, named 'Silent Crossbow.' Its form was somewhat similar to the one Tang San had created, but its mechanics were much simpler, though no less complex, and it was much smaller than the original and almost noiseless.
Not to mention, its firepower was much greater, so if one was not careful, it could easily kill a soul sect. This last point intrigued both of them, and they tested it by shooting it through a large piece of steel, which it penetrated effortlessly.
"Finally, regarding your trust, I believe the fact that I came here to negotiate with you is proof of my sincerity," I said while glancing at Xu Jiang. Tai Tan quickly understood what I meant, and he didn't object, as I was right about that matter. In a world where strength is everything, negotiating with the stronger party shows goodwill.
"This matter is very important, so I cannot make a decision now. Give me one more day to think, and during this time, you can stay in our clan," Tai Tan commented, and I agreed, as it was understandable.
Afterward, Tai Niu led Xu Jiang and me to some dormitories to rest.
"What do you think they will do, young master?" Xu Jiang asked curiously.
"Tai Tan is not foolish. He knows that what we are offering is a very good deal, so I don't think he will refuse," I said with a smile.