Peach Blossom Divine Medical God Chapter 1915 - 1909: General Store

Simultaneously, Chen Yang cast his gaze upon the shops lining both sides of the bustling street. After a stroll of approximately three to four minutes, his attention was captured by a modest establishment named "Old Shop Antiques." He confirmed the name on the signboard, ensuring it was the correct destination. "This is it," Chen Yang declared, taking Wang Jingman's hand as they entered the shop. The establishment was not large and appeared somewhat weathered. Constructed entirely of wood, it stood in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape of steel and concrete that defined the provincial capital, giving it a uniquely distinct presence. However, the interior was meticulously clean, exuding an aura that was both ancient and orderly, precisely the ambiance one would expect from an antique shop. "Welcome, sir, what can I help you with today?" As Chen Yang and Wang Jingman crossed the threshold, a youthful clerk, likely no older than seventeen or eighteen, swiftly approached them, inquiring about their needs. He appeared to be an apprentice. Chen Yang surveyed him briefly and stated, "I am here to see your shop owner." "The shop owner?" the young clerk hesitated for a moment before responding, "Our shop owner had a bit to drink at lunch and is still asleep." "Asleep?" Chen Yang expressed mild surprise, an unexpected turn of events. "Yes, sir. If you wish to purchase something, I can certainly assist you. However, if you absolutely must speak with the shop owner, you will likely need to return tomorrow, as we have no way of knowing when he will awaken," the clerk explained earnestly. "Could you perhaps go and wake him? We traveled a considerable distance specifically to see him," Wang Jingman interjected from the side. The young clerk, however, shook his head. "Madam, that is not permissible. Master has his rules. When he is sleeping, no one, regardless of who they are, is allowed to disturb him." Hearing this, Chen Yang found himself increasingly intrigued by the shop owner. Yet, he reasoned that since they were on another's property, they must abide by their rules. Consequently, it seemed impossible to proceed today; he would have to heed the young clerk's advice and try again tomorrow. "Very well, we will return tomorrow then," Chen Yang replied. He then took Wang Jingman's hand, preparing to depart. However, whether by chance or design, just as Chen Yang turned with Jingman's hand in his, an exceedingly languid voice drifted from the interior of the shop: "Disciple, hasten to bring your Master some wine." "Coming, Master," the young clerk responded promptly. He then turned to Chen Yang with a smile, saying, "Sir, you are truly fortunate. My Master has awakened. If you don't mind waiting a moment, he will be out to attend to customers shortly." "Certainly, please proceed; we will wait," Chen Yang agreed with a smile, his curiosity about the shop's proprietor intensifying. He certainly did not believe the owner had coincidentally woken up. According to that Daoist Liu, his associate possessed considerable cultivation and extensive experience. It was possible this was an ancient entity intentionally feigning incapacity. "Jingman, please have a seat. He should be out soon," Chen Yang said, gesturing for Wang Jingman to sit. Jingman, possessing considerable emotional intelligence, grasped the situation. Though her cultivation might not be high, the shop's decor and general atmosphere hinted that this place was far from ordinary. Thus, she offered no further comment, merely nodding before moving to the side seats to wait with Chen Yang. After an interval of about four or five minutes, they observed the same clerk emerging, assisting a plainly dressed elderly man. The old man sported a full white beard, yet his complexion was ruddy, and despite a disheveled and unkempt appearance, his presence possessed an undeniable charisma. This was a quality one could only perceive upon reaching a certain Realm. To the uninitiated observer, the old man merely appeared to be a shabby, disreputable drunk, lost in his cups. "Senior," Chen Yang declared, rising immediately and offering a polite greeting upon seeing the old man. Wang Jingman, observing Chen Yang's actions, also stood. "Ah, we have patrons in the shop, do we? Disciple, what are you doing? Customers are here, and you fail to greet them?" The old man did not address Chen Yang directly but instead, in a feigned drunken state, chided the disciple supporting him. "Master, these two customers specifically requested to see you," the clerk quickly explained. "Specifically requested me?" The old man feigned surprise, then, in a drunken manner, turned his gaze towards Chen Yang and Wang Jingman. "You two customers, seeking out an old fellow like me—what is so crucial?" "Senior, I was referred by a mutual acquaintance. I have come to acquire something from you," Chen Yang replied. "A mutual acquaintance? Who might that be?" The old man's expression shifted, becoming more focused and less clouded than before.

"Daoist Liu, Liu Qingyun." Chen Yang responded with the Taoist's name, as instructed.

This was the specific instruction from Taoist Liu himself: state his name upfront, or risk being overcharged by the old merchant.

The kind of merchant who gauged customers and adjusted prices accordingly.

Upon receiving this instruction, Chen Yang had found it both amusing and somewhat disheartening, thinking about the old adage, "Like attracts like."

It seemed that the people he encountered were all rather unconventional.

"Old Liu the Daoist?" The old man’s eyebrows shot up in surprise at Chen Yang's answer.

"That old coot is still kicking? He hasn’t shuffled off his mortal coil yet?" he exclaimed, the words tumbling out unexpectedly.

Chen Yang nearly burst into laughter.

"The old geezer is doing quite well, full of life," Chen Yang managed to suppress his mirth, replying calmly.

"Still full of life? That’s truly baffling. With that cadaverous look of his, how has he clung to existence for so long? It defies the natural order," the old man grumbled, a sneer on his lips, before his expression suddenly normalized, as if his earlier drunken state had been a complete facade.

"Since Old Liu sent you, let’s not waste time. What is it you wish to acquire? Whether it’s rare or common, I possess it. Just know that the rarer items come with a steeper price tag, so be mentally prepared," the old man stated plainly.

Chen Yang offered a faint smile; his suspicion was confirmed, the old man was not drunk at all.

That carefree, inebriated persona was merely an act.

"I am looking to purchase Formation diagrams and the necessary materials for their establishment," Chen Yang declared his intentions without preamble.

"Formation diagrams?" The old man’s surprise resurfaced.

"Yes, Formation diagrams, and the materials required for setting them up," Chen Yang affirmed with a nod.

This time, the old man fell silent, his gaze sweeping over Chen Yang from head to toe, scrutinizing him intently.

He then spoke, his tone laced with doubt, "That’s quite an obscure interest. I recall hearing that Old Liu’s original Sect had a specialization in Formations. Surely you aren't his disciple, are you?"

In the current era of Cultivation, Formations were exceedingly rare.

Chen Yang’s specific request, coupled with his mention of the Taoist's name, led the old man to this conclusion.

"No, Senior, I am not his disciple. I have merely delved into some personal research concerning Formations and thus came seeking Formation diagrams and materials," Chen Yang clarified.

His tone carried an air of sincerity.

However, the old man clearly remained unconvinced. Nevertheless, he did not press the matter further and proceeded to discuss the pricing of Formation diagrams.

"I knew that old reprobate was cursed by fate; how could he possibly have a disciple as remarkable as you? So, you are not." The old man chuckled, then continued, "You seek Formation diagrams and materials for establishing Formations—you have indeed found the right place. In this age of Cultivation, if anyone still possesses such commodities, it is likely only myself. You will find none elsewhere."

"But as I mentioned, obscure items command significant prices, and Formation diagrams along with their materials are the pinnacle of obscurity. You had best be prepared for the costs involved."