"Young Master, last night Brandon Nangong, Jasper Easton, and six other wastrel heirs sent a joint invitation, asking you to attend a banquet at Hai-Sky Pavilion tonight. Will you go?" After finishing her report, Raina Quinn brought up the invitation.
There have been so many people delivering visiting posts to the Song Residence lately—and even more bringing gifts. The storerooms are already overflowing with all kinds of presents. Raina had someone tally it up: just this past month, the total value of gifts received has already topped a hundred thousand premium spirit crystals. You had to admit, these gift-givers are seriously loaded.
If it were just Brandon Nangong inviting him, Ian Song wouldn’t even bother. That guy’s too petty, can’t tolerate anyone else. But with Jasper Easton involved, Ian had to give some face.
"Alright, I’ll go to the banquet. Also, arrange for me to receive ten visitors today."
"Yes, I’ll get right on it." Raina Quinn nodded, tidied up the dishes, and left.
Half an hour later.
In the Song Residence reception hall, Ian Song sat at the head seat. Below him was a slightly chubby middle-aged man—Andrew An, a wealthy merchant. Five days ago, he’d sent a visiting post and nearly five thousand premium spirit crystals as a gift.
With such a heavy gift, there had to be a reason. Ian wanted to hear what Andrew An was after before deciding whether to help—or just return the present.
"Manager An, our Young Master’s time is limited and there are others waiting. If you have something to say, don’t beat around the bush—just come out with it!" Raina Quinn, standing beside Ian, spoke up.
Andrew An hesitated, then stood and bowed to Ian with a miserable face. "Young Master Song, my An Commercial Association has been repeatedly extorted by the Longray Gang—honestly, it’s been a nightmare. If you can help me get through this crisis, I’m willing to give you thirty percent dry shares in my guild."
"How much is your An Commercial Association worth? What’s your main business? And what’s the background and real strength of this Longray Gang?" Ian asked in a serious tone.
Andrew replied, "Young Master Song, my business mainly sells all kinds of spirit medicines. We have eight shops in the Imperial Capital, worth about five hundred thousand premium spirit crystals total. The Longray Gang’s boss is Ray Longrain, an early-Fusion cultivator, and he commands around a thousand gang members."
"How much has the Longray Gang extorted from you? And what’s their real goal?" Ian pressed.
"I’ve already given the Longray Gang ten thousand premium spirit crystals, but their appetite is huge. They’re forcing me to hand over fifty percent of my profits—or else they’ll shut down my business in the capital!"
"Why didn’t you report it to the authorities?" Ian stared at Andrew, his gaze sharp.
Andrew looked miserable. "I did, but it was useless. I found out Ray Longrain has some kind of connection with a clerk in the Prefect’s office."
Ian turned to Raina Quinn directly. "Has Warren Wei sent a visiting post?"
"He has." Raina Quinn nodded.
"Summon him to see me at once," Ian said.
"Alright!" Raina Quinn went to arrange it immediately.
It wasn't even a quarter of an hour before Warren Wei hurried in, looking quite excited. "Greetings, Young Master Song," he said.
"I called you here because I need your help with something," Ian said directly.
Warren laughed happily, "That's great! If Young Master Song ever needs anything from me, just say the word." He was visibly excited—after all, Ian Song was now the hottest figure in town, and countless people were desperate to curry favor. Getting to do something for him was an honor in itself.
Ian pointed at Andrew An. "Repeat your story to the Prefect’s son here."
"Alright, no problem!"
Andrew was overjoyed. He knew his troubles were basically solved—the Longray Gang’s only backing was the Prefect’s clerk, but Warren was the Prefect’s own son. As long as Warren stepped in, that clerk wouldn’t dare cross him no matter how bold he was.
After hearing Andrew’s explanation, Warren slapped the table and barked, "That guy’s got some nerve, using my father’s name to extort people! Don’t worry, Manager An, I’ll send word down right away and make sure he pays for this!"
With Warren’s guarantee, Andrew felt completely at ease.
"Manager An, once this is settled, your thirty percent dry shares go to Warren," Ian suddenly said.
"Of course," Andrew agreed readily. "I’m also willing to offer another thirty percent dry shares to Young Master Song."
"No need. Warren’s the one handling it—it’s not really my business," Ian waved off.
"Young Master Song, how can I accept what you won’t take?" Warren protested.
After a bit of negotiation, Ian took twenty percent dry shares, Warren took ten percent.
With everything resolved, Andrew knew Ian had plenty to do, so he took his leave.
Warren, on the other hand, lingered eagerly, clearly reluctant to go.
"Tonight, I’m heading to Hai-Sky Pavilion at the invitation of Brandon Nangong and Jasper Easton. If you’re free, come along," Ian told him.
Warren was overjoyed and agreed immediately.
Ian then received nine more visitors—some came seeking his help, others just wanted to build a connection.
Having lived through several worlds, Ian’s social and negotiation skills were already top-notch. Everyone left satisfied, their trip worthwhile.
In no time, evening arrived—only half an hour remained until the banquet.
Warren had already arrived at the Song Residence a full hour early.
"Let’s go!"
Ian stepped into a luxurious spirit-beast carriage, with Warren following right behind, fully embracing his role as Ian’s loyal sidekick. The carriage itself was a gift from someone else, worth over three thousand top-grade spirit crystals.
Hai-Sky Pavilion was a famous restaurant in the Imperial Capital, known for its ingredients sourced from all manner of sea beasts. The chefs were top-notch, and the sea beast dishes were tender and delicious, making it a favorite among nobles and officials.
After a short ride, they arrived at Hai-Sky Pavilion, where Brandon Nangong, Jasper Easton, and several other wastrel heirs were already waiting out front.
Brandon and Jasper were famous scions in the Imperial Capital. Just standing there, they drew everyone’s attention.
Naturally, many people wondered who they were waiting for.
But when Ian appeared, everyone instantly understood.
Before joining the Phoenix Heaven Church, Ian had humiliated Vergil Northcourt and wiped out Prince Meadowfield’s estate, earning respect and fear—but few dared approach him proactively.
Only after joining the church and becoming a Core Disciple did he truly gain a foothold in the capital, with real backing and foundation. Otherwise, so many people wouldn’t be sending gifts and invitations.
"Brother Song, I haven’t seen you in months—you’re looking even more handsome!"
Brandon strode forward, grinning as he spoke.
Ian’s expression was calm as he looked up, making Brandon tense and stiffen a little. Thankfully, Ian smiled a moment later. "It’s been a while, Brandon. Tonight, we’ll have to drink our fill!"
"Absolutely—not leaving until we’re drunk!" Brandon replied, finally relaxing.
Jasper and the others came up to greet Ian as well. Ian introduced Warren to the group, giving him a boost in status.
With the greetings done, everyone headed inside Hai-Sky Pavilion together.
To show his sincerity, Brandon had reserved the entire restaurant for the night.
During the feast, Brandon was especially enthusiastic, constantly toasting Ian. Ian reciprocated by drinking every glass, which made Brandon even happier.
"Attendants!" Brandon suddenly clapped his hands and called out. Two stunning beauties entered, carrying an antique-looking box between them.
Clearly, they were preparing some special gift or surprise for Ian, setting up the next development.