Chapter 399: News of the City Black Market and the Bard (6600)

The merchant Jason exclaimed, "This is… this is a Light Feather Chicken egg!"

"Lord Cao Xing, you don't happen to have these magical creatures, the Light Feather Chicken, in your territory, do you?"

Cao Xing nodded, "That's right."

The first batch of Light Feather Chickens has already begun to hatch.

Under the illumination of 24-hour holy light, these Light Feather Chickens are growing very quickly.

It won't be long before the flock in my territory expands, and I will be able to produce eggs in bulk.

The look of surprise on Jason's face deepened.

He said excitedly, "As expected of Lord Cao Xing!"

"I've heard that this kind of magical creature is not only extremely difficult to tame but also very troublesome to feed."

"I never expected you to be able to get your hands on such a creature. It's truly incredible…"

"If Cao Xing is willing to sell these eggs and establish a long-term partnership with our Woodpecker Chamber of Commerce,"

"I can make the decision in the name of the vice president to guarantee you the highest purchase price on the market. How about it?"

Cao Xing smiled, "That's fine. I trust Vice President Jason's character."

"However, if you want large-scale trading, we will need to wait a while longer."

"After some time, when the Light Feather Chickens in my territory reach a certain scale, I will contact you."

The merchant replied without hesitation, "Of course, no problem!"

"Whenever you have a need, Lord Cao Xing, you can contact me at any time."

Jason wore a brilliant smile on his face.

For a merchant of his level, one or two million crowns naturally didn't matter much.

What he was eyeing were the long-term returns from Cao Xing's territory and the development potential of this territory.

Just like Hilton, these merchants all possessed good business acumen and long-term vision.

As for the other merchant from the Luna Chamber of Commerce that Cao Xing had encountered before, he did not possess these qualities, which is why he had already been dismissed by the Luna Chamber of Commerce.

If Jason could offer a satisfactory price, there was no harm in letting them acquire the Light Feather Chicken eggs in the future.

As mentioned before, if Cao Xing really wanted to enter the business world, he could quickly open up the market with the items in his possession.

But doing business was not such a simple matter.

It not only required hiring people for management but also ensuring the safety of cargo transport.

Moreover, one had to deal with the merchants and nobles in the city.

These things would consume a significant amount of Cao Xing's time and energy.

With that time, he could use it to improve his own strength, which would yield higher returns.

When you are strong enough, plenty of people will naturally beg to cooperate with you.

Cao Xing continued, "By the way, Lord Jason, there is one more thing I need to trouble you with."

Jason replied readily, "Brother Cao Xing, just say it."

He had even changed how he addressed Cao Xing.

"It's not a big deal; I just want to meet Count Winston. Do you have any connections?"

As a Count and the master of Merlind City, he was naturally not someone just anyone could meet whenever they wanted.

Not only did one need a sufficient background, but one also had to provide advance notice, which was equivalent to an appointment.

Obviously, Cao Xing had none of these.

However, he was here to collect a bounty this time.

Even if Jason couldn't help, he could go directly to the Count's mansion.

Of course, if someone could provide an introduction, it would save a lot of trouble.

After hearing this, Jason pondered for a moment and then said, "Count Winston usually stays in his mansion and rarely goes out."

"However, if Lord Cao Xing wants to see him, I can help you arrange it."

Cao Xing was delighted to hear this, "That would be great, Lord Jason."

The middle-aged man waved his hand, "It's just a small favor."

Speaking of which, he seemed to remember something, "By the way, Lord Cao Xing, you have just arrived in Merlind City and don't have a place to stay yet, right?"

Cao Xing nodded.

A smile appeared on the merchant's face once again.

"In that case, why not head to the Wilsin Tavern for a rest?"

"It is one of the top three taverns in all of Merlind City and is also a property of our Woodpecker Chamber of Commerce."

"It is getting late now. Even if you want to see Count Winston, you will have to wait until tomorrow."

"Moreover, there is the most famous, no, perhaps the most famous and best-singing bard in the entire Gale Snowfield, who performs at the tavern every night."

"I don't know how many young nobles have spent a fortune just to hear her sing."

When Jason mentioned the bard, his tone was full of pride.

Cao Xing did not refuse; he did indeed need to find a place to stay.

"Then I will trouble you, Lord Jason."

"No trouble, it's just a small matter." Jason wore a smile on his face, appearing to be in a very good mood.

Cao Xing was also in a good mood.

Sure enough, when out and about, one has to rely on connections.

See, having acquaintances in Merlind City makes everything much more convenient.

Jason continued, "Brother Cao Xing, besides the tavern, if you get bored at night and want to find something else to do,"

"I can take you to browse the city's black market."

"A black market? Is it the kind I'm thinking of?"

A look of surprise appeared in Cao Xing's eyes!

Jason nodded with a smile, "Yes, just as you thought."

"Merlind City has a black market where items that cannot be officially sold in the open can be traded."

"As long as you have the money and a good eye, you can always buy things you like."

Cao Xing also became interested.

Whether in games or literature, the black market is always a place with special significance.

I don't know how many protagonists have relied on picking up bargains in the black market to obtain supreme treasures and then soared to success.

Of course, Cao Xing had no intention of picking up bargains.

After all, this is a real world; those who can operate in the chaotic black market are all elites in this regard.

They already know the ins and outs of the goods in their hands.

Trying to pick up a bargain from them is too difficult.

But that doesn't change the fact that some good things will indeed appear in the black market.

Cao Xing said, "I am quite interested in this black market."

A smile appeared on Jason's face again.

Through his understanding of those Otherworld Lords during this time.

As soon as they heard about the black market, it was like hearing news of where a peerless beauty had appeared; they would try every possible way to get in.

So he anticipated that Cao Xing would not refuse.

The merchant Jason continued, "Alright, Lord Cao Xing, but the black market has fixed opening times."

"It usually opens twice a month."

"You have come at just the right time; tomorrow night is the day the underground black market opens."

"At that time, I can take you with me."

Cao Xing immediately replied, "Thank you."

Jason shook his head with a smile and continued.

"Brother Cao Xing, there are still matters at the Chamber of Commerce waiting for me to handle, so I won't disturb you here any longer."

"My attendant will take you to the Wilsin Tavern."

"After you finish your business tomorrow, come find me, and I will take you to browse the black market."

Cao Xing nodded slightly, "Go ahead and get busy, Lord Jason."

The middle-aged man nodded and then quickly left the place with several attendants.

Only a young man with a youthful face, looking to be sixteen or seventeen years old, remained.

This was the attendant Jason had left behind to host them.

"Lord Cao Xing, would you like to head to the tavern now, or go later?"

"If you would like to stroll around the city for a while, I can guide you."

This young man's attitude was excellent.

To him, someone who could be so highly regarded by his vice president was naturally a big shot.

So it was reasonable for him to address him as "Lord".

Cao Xing said, "No need, just take us to the tavern."

"Understood."

The young man turned around and said, "Lord Cao Xing, please follow me."

With that, he led Cao Xing and his party forward.

Soon, the group passed through several streets and arrived directly at the center of Merlind City.

At the intersection ahead, a building with a massive footprint appeared.

It was at least a dozen meters high and divided into three levels: upper, middle, and lower.

The outer walls of the building were built with dark boulders, full of a sense of weight, and the pointed roof was covered with black tiles.

In front was a large door made of oak, which looked quite imposing.

And above the door hung a plaque with the five characters [Wilsin Tavern].

The young man beside him said, "Lord, we have arrived."

After speaking, he walked up first and pushed open the oak door for them.

Cao Xing followed him inside.

A spacious hall immediately appeared before his eyes.

Quite different from the bustling and noisy scenes of other taverns, this place clearly exuded a unique atmosphere.

The guests inside appeared very quiet, each sitting at their own table, either talking softly with companions or savoring the fine wine in their cups alone.

The interior decoration of the tavern was not of that ostentatious and exaggerated style; on the contrary, it had a sense of understated luxury.

Exquisite oil paintings hung on the walls, and antique chandeliers hung from the ceiling, emitting a soft light.

And on the left side of the first-floor hall was a small stage.

A group of well-dressed people sat around tables, seemingly waiting for something.

Those who could come here were all prominent figures in the city.

Therefore, they maintained their decorum, displaying elegance and composure in every gesture.

Of course, in Cao Xing's view, this was just a bunch of refined scoundrels.

They were bright and glamorous in front of people, but in reality, they played wilder than anyone behind the scenes.

At the same time, the young attendant said, "Lord Cao Xing, please wait here for a moment; I will go and instruct the staff in the tavern."

Cao Xing nodded, "Go ahead."

The young man left quickly.

At the same time, a graceful figure lifted the curtain behind the stage and walked out elegantly.

I don't know who shouted, "Miss Gwyneth has come out."

In an instant, the entire tavern fell silent.

Everyone's gaze was attracted to the graceful figure on the stage, dozens of eyes staring intently.

This woman walked over gracefully, wearing a performance outfit in orange and blue tones; the orange-red top was like a burning flame, bright and eye-catching.

She wore a red round hat on her head, her golden hair was slightly coiled up, and a few strands of hair fell by her cheeks.

On her slender legs, she wore pantyhose of two colors, a costume that appeared somewhat peculiar.

This was the clothing worn by bards during performances; the bright and unique color scheme was to better attract passersby.

However, no matter how unique her clothes were, they could not cover up her stunningly beautiful face.

Her beauty was different from that which comes from careful dressing; it was a beauty that felt natural.

At this moment, she elegantly arrived at the platform in the center of the stage and then slowly sat down.

She hooked her right foot around her left ankle and began to tune the lute in her hands.

"Zheng zheng…"

The strings emitted a slight tremolo.

During the time she was tuning, faint discussions echoed in the tavern.

Some were discussing the woman's appearance, others were discussing her singing voice.

Amidst the expectant gazes of the crowd, this beautiful woman slowly opened her mouth.

"Aged scars, longing for a gentle touch, lingering and entwined, disregarding the stars and destiny~"

As the first sentence was uttered, that ethereal, heavenly singing voice, like the music of immortals from the Heavenly Mountains, suddenly descended.

The dozens of people in the room instantly fell silent.

It was as if all other sounds had vanished, leaving only that beautiful singing voice echoing.

"The torn heart, you mend with love; these memories intertwine with fate, you and I share the redemption~"

"Dawn, you escape from the dream, leaving only the scent of lilacs and gooseberries~"

"…"

In that truly heavenly voice, it felt as if time had stopped and the air had frozen.

Everyone in the tavern remained in their original positions, afraid that even the slightest sound would disturb the woman's performance.

Pedestrians outside the tavern could not help but stop to listen.

Even Cao Xing, a Tier 5, and Sarah, a Tier 6, could not help but be captivated by her singing.

As the performance reached its peak.

A look of sadness involuntarily appeared on everyone's faces; her singing seemed to make them witness a poignant and beautiful love story.

Many people in the audience were moved to tears.

A few minutes later, the woman on stage slowly sang the final line.

"In the dream, your raven-black locks fluttered like a storm, violet eyes weeping like rain…"

The lute stopped strumming.

Time began to flow again.

Everyone snapped out of that trance-like state.

The commoners who had stopped outside resumed their busy lives.

The woman said not a word.

She simply bowed slightly to acknowledge everyone.

In an instant, thunderous applause broke out!

The dozens of people in the tavern stood up, their cheers rising one after another.

"Ms. Gwyneth, your singing is truly magnificent!"

"Any flowery language pales in comparison to your voice."

"Ms. Gwyneth, please have a drink with me!"

"…"

Below, those young nobles were frantically expressing their admiration.

Faced with these voices, the woman on stage only smiled faintly and bowed politely once more.

At this moment, Sarah, who was beside Cao Xing, said with a guarded expression, "My Lord, this woman is a bit strange; even I was drawn in just now."

Even Elisa covered her mouth and exclaimed, "Wow! Elisa actually cried just now; this big sister's singing is so amazing!"

Cao Xing also nodded, then took a deep look at the woman.

Her attribute panel immediately appeared before his eyes.

[Bard: Gwyneth]

[Level: 23 (Tier 3 Elite Creature)]

[HP: 14260 / 14260]

[Attack Power: 472 ~ 513]

[Skills: None]

[Life Skills: Master Singing Mastery, Master Musical Instrument Mastery, Advanced Performance Mastery, Advanced Poetry Composition, Intermediate Card Game Mastery…]

[Talent: Heart Rhythm Sound (Her voice can make people subconsciously calm down and listen carefully)]

[Status: Black-billed Crow Poison (A peculiar toxin, effect unknown, will take effect in 27 hours and 13 minutes…)]

…

…

"Good grief, she actually has two Master-level life skills!"

"Combined with her Heart Rhythm Sound talent, she is simply a woman born to sing."

Cao Xing was amazed.

You have to know, even a witch who has lived for hundreds of years only has one Master-level skill, yet she actually has two.

However, Cao Xing also noticed the information in this woman's [Status] column.

"Black-billed Crow Poison? What is that?"

Cao Xing looked at the woman with a scrutinizing expression.

He discovered that her complexion was not abnormal.

Seemingly noticing Cao Xing's gaze, the woman named Gwyneth slowly turned her head.

That breathtakingly beautiful face looked at him, and then she smiled gently.

Before Cao Xing could react, that young attendant had already brought the tavern's bartender over.

The bartender's gaze immediately fell upon Cao Xing and the group of Wild Boar Warriors behind him.

With a fawning smile on his face, he said, "My Lord, I am the bartender of this tavern, and I have already heard about you."

"How many rooms should I arrange for you?"

Cao Xing pondered for a moment, then said, "Arrange six rooms."

The Wild Boar Warriors would take four rooms with the four prisoners.

Cao Xing and the four, including Sarah, only needed two rooms.

The bartender hurriedly said, "Very well, My Lord, please follow me."

After saying this, he led Cao Xing and the others to the second floor of the tavern.

After they left, the nobles in the tavern hall looked at Cao Xing's back with some curiosity.

"Everyone, who was that just now? Does anyone recognize him?"

"I don't know, but to be able to travel with his own soldiers and be received so enthusiastically by this tavern's bartender, he must be a big shot."

"Could he be a big shot from Eternal Frost Main City?"

They speculated about Cao Xing's identity one after another.

The bard on stage did not pay much attention to Cao Xing.

Instead, not long after the performance ended, she retreated behind the stage.

…

…

"My Lord, these are your rooms; you may arrange them as you wish."

The bartender said politely.

Cao Xing looked at the six rooms before him, then ordered, "Wild Boar Warriors, divide into groups of three, each group takes one room."

"Then take turns guarding those four guys."

After speaking, he glanced at the swindlers whose hands and feet were tied and mouths gagged.

The Wild Boar Warriors immediately replied respectfully, "As you command, My Lord!"

After speaking, they divided themselves into teams and escorted the four people into the rooms.

There were two rooms left.

Cao Xing said, "Sarah, Renice, Elisa, the three of you will have to make do and squeeze together tonight."

Gentle smiles appeared on the faces of the three women, and they all nodded.

"No problem, My Lord!"

After arranging this, everyone returned to their respective rooms.

Cao Xing also pushed open his room.

As a lord, he also kept a little privilege for himself.

Occupying a room all to himself.

Upon entering the tavern room, a faint fragrance appeared; it was not the scent of some perfume, but the aroma of wood.

It did not smell uncomfortable at all.

Besides that, a fireplace was burning in the room, sufficient to maintain a normal temperature.

Cao Xing saw at a glance the large wooden bed placed in the middle.

"Oh, this bed is quite big."

It just so happened that he had been on the road all day and was a bit tired.

Consequently, Cao Xing lay down on the large bed without even taking off his clothes.

After sending a message to Liu Muxue to let her know he was safe, he fell asleep.

Just when he thought the night would pass like this.

A soft knocking sound suddenly rang out outside the inn room door.

Knock… knock-knock…

"Who is it?" Cao Xing asked, puzzled.

"My Lord, it is me…"

Hearing this familiar voice, Cao Xing was stunned for a moment.

"Come in."

A moment later, the door was pushed open, and a Dark Elf with pointed ears and a flush on her face walked in slowly.

"What's wrong, Sarah?" Cao Xing asked.

The Dark Elf lowered her head, her left hand pressing on her right arm, standing there somewhat awkwardly.

She said softly, "I… I'm not used to being outside, and I wanted to come to My Lord's room to rest with you…"

"Is… is that okay?"

Hearing this, Cao Xing chuckled, "Of course, come in."

Upon hearing this, a joyful smile appeared on Sarah's face, and she slipped into his quilt.

A warm, soft, and slender body lay in his arms.

And not long after the two of them lay down.

There was another knock at the door.

"Who is it?" Cao Xing asked again.

"My Lord, it is me, Renice…"

Cao Xing was stunned, but still said, "Come in first."

At the same time, this Ascalon archer walked in slowly.

Then she immediately saw Sarah in Cao Xing's arms and exclaimed in surprise, "So Sister Sarah is already here…"

Cao Xing chuckled, "It's okay, Renice, come over and join us."

"Sarah won't mind."

At this moment, the Dark Elf curled up in Cao Xing's arms said softly, "Mm… with more people, it's… warmer…"

A flicker of hesitation appeared in Renice's eyes, along with more shyness.

But she still nodded gently, then came to the large bed and climbed into the quilt.

At this moment, Renice and Sarah were lying on Cao Xing's left and right sides respectively, staring wide-eyed at the ceiling.

Then they felt their shoulders being held by a strong, large hand, and subconsciously snuggled into his arms.

The two women were lying on their sides, just able to see each other's expressions.

They exchanged embarrassed smiles.

Just when Cao Xing thought no one else would come over tonight, there was another knock at the door.

Cao Xing was dumbfounded.

"Who is it this time?"

"Wuwu… My Lord, it is me…"

This voice was Elisa.

"Elisa, what's wrong with you?"

"My Lord… Sister Renice and Sister Sarah didn't come back after they left, and I'm a little scared being in the room alone, wuwu…"

Cao Xing was speechless; this little girl could stay out in the freezing snow for days and nights without going home, yet she claimed she was afraid to sleep alone.

But he still said, "Then come in."

Hearing this, the voice outside pushed the door open and entered.

At this moment, she was wrapped in a wolf-skin coat, holding the longbow Cao Xing had given her tightly in her arms, looking somewhat petite and pitiful.

At this time, Elisa also noticed the two figures in the quilt.

"Wow! Sister Renice and Sister Sarah are actually both here!"

"I thought you…"

She seemed extremely surprised, and a flush of embarrassment appeared on her face.

It was as if she had been caught doing something shameful.

"Then… then I'll go back…"

Cao Xing chuckled, "Don't go back, come over and squeeze in too."

Elisa was stunned for a moment upon hearing this.

"Ah… can I too? My Lord?"

Cao Xing said speechlessly, "What do you mean 'can or can't', I'm not going to do anything to you."

"It's so cold, hurry up and come over."

Little Elisa stood there, seemingly hesitant.

After some internal struggle, she mustered up her courage.

"Then… then I'm coming over too…"

Then she carefully climbed into the quilt and lay down next to Renice.

Fortunately, the room the bartender arranged for Cao Xing was large enough, and the bed was very wide.

Otherwise, it really wouldn't have been able to fit the four of them.

At this moment, the four of them lay quietly on the bed.

But now, there was finally no one coming to knock on the door anymore.

Cao Xing held a beauty in each arm and also grabbed Elisa's little hand.

Then he drifted off to sleep.

However, for these three women, tonight would likely be a sleepless night…

…

…

The next day.

As the system prompt for the start of the 'Zhuo Mas Claw' challenge rang out.

Cao Xing suddenly opened his eyes.

Looking at the all-wood architecture above, he felt a bit dazed.

After all, this was his first time waking up in a tavern in this world, and the experience was rather subtle.

At the same time, Cao Xing sat up.

He saw at a glance three beautiful faces lying beside him.