Chapter 24: Blood-Coagulating Powder

Just as everyone was heatedly discussing strategies to counter the Gale family, a clan guard hurried in, looking flustered.

He panted, "Clan Head, there is a man in a black robe outside who claims he wishes to discuss a cooperative venture with you."

Xiao Zhan and the elders were taken aback. They frowned, quickly pondering the situation, and exchanged glances. The elders couldn't help but think that with the Xiao family currently under pressure from the Gale family, the sudden appearance of this mysterious figure at such a critical moment could be risky.

Thinking this, Xiao Zhan quickly ordered, "Invite him in at once!"

However, before the words had even faded, a somewhat aged voice drifted in from outside: "No need for invitations; the old man has already arrived."

Following the voice, a figure shrouded in a black robe stepped inside.

Xiao Zhan was momentarily stunned, then wore a polite smile and said courteously, "Sir, the clan's affairs are quite pressing, and I failed to go out to greet you personally. I hope you will forgive me."

The black-robed man waved a hand, his voice low: "Skip the formalities. I have come today to discuss a matter of great importance with you all."

Seeing this, Xiao Yu felt a wave of relief. A flicker of hope appeared in her eyes; it seemed the Xiao family truly had a chance at salvation, and perhaps this stranger could provide the turning point they needed.

Beside her, Xiao Xun'er narrowed her eyes slightly. Her clear gaze remained fixed on the man in black, and a strange feeling welled up within her. She felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity in his movements and speech, as if she had encountered him somewhere before. She pondered silently, trying to match the figure to someone in her memory, but found herself unable to be certain.

After Xiao Zhan invited the guest to sit, he asked respectfully, "Sir, may I ask what this cooperative venture entails? I hope you can clarify."

The black-robed man nodded slightly, swept his gaze over the room, and spoke slowly: "I have heard that the Xiao family is facing difficulties from the Gale family and that your medicinal pill business has been obstructed. I happen to have some insights into the pill trade and possess certain resources, so I wish to cooperate with the Xiao family."

Hearing this, everyone was delighted. Xiao Zhan quickly responded, "If that is truly the case, that would be wonderful. However, may I ask what conditions you have?"

The man smiled slightly and said, "My conditions are simple: during our cooperation, we shall share the profits."

"Once the issues with the Gale family are resolved, I will withdraw and will not interfere with the internal affairs of the Xiao family."

Xiao Zhan and the elders exchanged looks again, quickly weighing the pros and cons. A moment later, Xiao Zhan nodded: "Very well. Since you are so forthright, our Xiao family agrees to cooperate with you."

The man then looked at the members of the Xiao family and said calmly, "As for the pills, you need not worry."

"I presume you are all aware of the young man in your clan who has grown through the use of my Foundation Elixir. With me here, there is no need to worry about the supply of medicine."

Everyone was startled, and a glint of realization flashed in Xiao Zhan’s eyes. He looked around but did not see Xiao Yan; he assumed Yan'er must be training in the back mountains again—the boy was always so diligent.

The man (Yao Lao) seemed to perceive Xiao Zhan's thoughts. The corners of his mouth turned up in a satisfied smile as he added: "That child has excellent talent and is diligent and hardworking. In time, he will surely accomplish great things. I have high hopes for him."

The man’s tone was filled with such praise and satisfaction that it sounded as if he took great credit for Xiao Yan's achievements.

Xiao Ning, standing to the side, felt unconvinced and muttered under his breath: "Hmph, so he has a little talent, what’s the big deal? I don't see anything special about him. He just got lucky, obtaining the Foundation Elixir and receiving guidance from a master. If I had the same opportunities, I would surely do better than him."

The black-robed man then lightly tapped his ring. A flash of light appeared, drawing everyone's attention.

Xiao Zhan, however, noticed in passing that the man's hand did not look as aged or powerful as his voice suggested. The hands were fair and slender with distinct knuckles, exuding a unique quality, and they gave him an inexplicable sense of familiarity. But before he could dwell on it, a pile of crystal-clear pill bottles appeared out of thin air on the table, the faint fragrance of herbs wafting through the council hall.

Seeing the astonished expressions, the man nodded and said: "These are 1,283 bottles of healing medicine, known as 'Blood-Coagulating Powder'."

"Although these are only first-tier pills, their efficacy is far superior to standard first-tier healing medicines. With these, the Xiao family will have a much better chance of winning in the competition against the Gale family."

He waved his hand, signaling them to come forward and examine the goods.

The Third Elder stepped forward first, picked up a bottle, opened the stopper, and carefully sniffed the contents, observing the color and shape of the pills. A look of pleasant surprise appeared on his face as he turned to Xiao Zhan: "Clan Head, the quality of these pills is exceptional—far better than anything our Xiao family has produced of the same grade. With these, we can indeed turn the tide in our medicinal business."

The First Elder also stepped up, examined them, and nodded: "Indeed. The gentleman is truly skilled to be able to refine such high-quality pills."

"However... may I ask how much effort and what herbs were required to refine these? The Xiao family certainly will not let you expend your resources in vain."

The man waved his hand: "It was merely a few herbs and a little effort, not worth mentioning. My cooperation with the Xiao family is, naturally, for the mutual benefit of both parties."

Hearing this, Xiao Zhan was overjoyed and said respectfully: "Your generous assistance is something the entire Xiao family is deeply grateful for. Should you have any needs in the future, the Xiao family will certainly assist you with all our might."

At this moment, Xiao Yu suddenly asked: "Sir, I have one question. Why did you choose to cooperate with our Xiao family?"

"After all, we are currently in a difficult position; the risks of partnering with us are not low."

The man paused, then laughed heartily: "Young lady, you are quite direct. To be honest, I chose to cooperate with the Xiao family first because I value the foundation and heritage you possess in Wutan City."

"And secondly, it is because of that young man of yours. I see his potential and believe he can lead the Xiao family out of this predicament."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Yu couldn't help but pout.