Facing an Ancient God for a Year

Chapter 2285: Chapter 2280: Turmoil in Shangjing

This young hero is quite courageous.

The Chief of the Night Watchman just claimed no one would dare to disturb the peace, and here he is, being challenged live?

Grantham’s pace was neither hurried nor slow, but with one glance, it was clear he had a specific goal, and that elegant end was eating with the two big shots.

Even the seemingly indifferent audience quickly noticed this, and the situation instantly shifted—

"Mr. Fang, it’s unexpected to see you and Chief Yuan here."

The eye of the storm seemed to twitch slightly the next moment.

The Bloodline Clan’s elegance never fades; Grantham approached with an impeccable expression, as if he had casually bumped into old friends.

Yet, it seemed he had more rapport with the bookstore owner beside him.

"Just here to mooch some food and drink."

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Fu Qian remained equally natural, gesturing casually with the plate in his hand.

...

The evidence was ample.

The architectural marvel Fu Qian held, still towering despite lacking a support wall, clearly lent great weight to his claims.

For a moment, even the nimble Grantham seemed a bit persuaded by such candidness.

"The banquet truly is remarkable... I’m very glad I attended. If Selana were here, I’d much prefer to ask for her help."

However, it was only a momentary thought, as Grantham naturally agreed, his tone even somewhat exaggerated.

"I’m afraid she might not be willing. Did Selana mention when she would return?"

There is no denying Chief Yuan seemed quite relaxed today; unlike Grantham’s meticulous wording, he casually continued the conversation, indicating Selana’s housebound tendencies might be higher.

Grantham’s stance clearly considered Selana’s higher ranking. The Gulad Family didn’t mind expressing their willingness to cooperate in such a manner.

It’s just unfortunate; she happened to be temporarily away from Shangjing.

And Yuan Shan’s reaction showed no hesitation in acknowledging this fact.

Given Selana’s status, the Night Watchman shouldn’t be able to enforce immediate reporting.

Yet, Yuan Shan wasn’t surprised by her absence from Shangjing, showcasing remarkable control.

Even questions like what she was up to weren’t forcefully inquired about, leaving the choice of disclosure entirely up to her.

"She might be away for a bit longer, as I’ve just discovered some clues relating to Tyler’s previous situation that require specific investigation."

Although no precise answer was given, Grantham’s behavior was still quite obedient, directly introducing the purpose of the trip.

...

Oh?

It’s apparent; Lady Selana’s sense of secrecy is indeed high.

Previously, when collaborating on filming the receiving of grace or introducing the culprits behind the "corpse collecting" event—Death Overlord’s minions—she’d promised that only she and Grantham would be aware.

Now, Yuan Shan expressed some surprise at Grantham’s statement, appearing truly uninformed about it before.

Even Grantham’s current proactive communication still didn’t mention Death Overlord, focusing instead on the Tyler entrapment event.

"I’m looking forward to the outcomes."

Amid her curiosity, Yuan Shan clearly thought of something, professing her expectancy while gazing at Fu Qian.

"I’ll relay it at the earliest opportunity."

Grantham laughed heartily, exhibiting increasing grace.

Yet, despite such pleasant exchanges, he didn’t linger long and soon took his leave with apologies.

Even before leaving, he specially recommended a particular dessert he quite fancied.

"Is it tasty?"

Yuan Shan seemed indifferent to this, even after seeing Grantham off, quickly focused on Fu Qian’s hand.

The latter indeed took the suggestion without hesitation, consuming Grantham’s recommendation before even saying anything.

"Honestly... I can’t quite understand why the Bloodline Clan likes spicy food."

Fu Qian quickly addressed Yuan Shan’s curiosity, his expression speaking volumes.

What he consumed was a golden-hued small cake, historically renowned as described by Grantham.

"To describe it accurately, it’s like a bee dipped its tail in honey and stung your tongue."

Indeed, it’s sweet.

Yet, a particular spicy additive seemed to serve as the trailblazer, dividing the taste buds and delivering the sweetness into the soul.

"Then forget it."

Judging by his apparent lack of interest, Yuan Shan was straightforward, deciding against trying it while slyly snatching something else.

Unfortunately, this time the control wasn’t as deft, causing Fu Qian’s creation to partially collapse.

...

"Tyler is rather unfortunate, but enduring such hardships might quicken his growth, comparable to his old rival."

Fu Qian certainly didn’t mind such trifles, earnestly finishing the spicy dessert before commenting.

That fellow really is brainless and unlucky, but are you sure that’s appropriate to say? You’ve been the culprit behind several of his trials, haven’t you?

Although not challenging the notion, Yuan Shan’s expression was intriguing.

"You seem to hold Jiang En in high regard? He’s been having a tough time lately."

Without dwelling on the issue, she quickly expressed curiosity about the other person Fu Qian had mentioned.

"Certainly, he’s tenacious with a strong character, just somewhat lacking in fortune. Given time, he might exceed expectations."

Fu Qian gracefully maintained his outsider’s demeanor, offering praise.

"Saying that’s like saying nothing; the tough part is the fortune."

Yuan Shan practically rolled her eyes, knowing many have ended tragically despite possessing the essence on the Transcendent path, making it insufficient as a reason.

...

Jiang En indeed appears to be more composed.

Considering Yuan Shan’s reaction, Fu Qian reached a different conclusion.

Due to happenstance discovering the "secret" within Fangthroat, he managed a breakthrough but didn’t rush to prove himself as a youth, staying low-profile even the Night Watchman was unaware of the situation.

Yet after today, that might change.

The interaction with Yuan Shan was truly casual conversation, seemingly lacking deep significance.

But you can’t prevent others from pondering the deeper meaning.

They had just mentioned that the two of them were the invisible center of the banquet.

Anyone mentioned by them, no matter how ordinary they seemed, could gain some attention.

Let alone the already famed South and North dual prides.

With South’s Tyler and North’s Jiang En both in a precarious state, what changes will Shangjing witness as attention converges once more?

Especially for Jiang En, it also means receiving a somewhat unofficial endorsement.

Given his nature, the odds of returning to his family are slim, and surviving outside, alone, isn’t easy.

At least being associated with the "Death Overlord" means subtly guiding destiny is but a trivial effort.