Chapter 205 Farewell? The main event has only just begun!

Grand Elder!

This was no ordinary honorary title!

Within the hierarchy of the Appraisers Guild.

Although a Grand Tutor Level Appraiser was already at the top and enjoyed a lofty status.

They did not actually possess real power.

But a Grand Elder.

That position would inevitably carry immense power within the Appraisers Guild!

Usually, this status was only granted to veteran Grand Tutors who had made enormous contributions to the guild, possessed high prestige, and reached a certain Peak in both strength and appraisal techniques, or to special talents with irreplaceable strategic significance in a specific field!

Holding the title of Grand Elder meant having a transcendent status within the guild, with significant weight in one's words; the resources and authority one could mobilize far exceeded those of a Common Grand Tutor, and one could even speak as an equal with the President on certain major decisions!

This was no longer just a symbol of status.

It was the absolute Peak of real power and position!

President Yun Xi's move was not just an ultimate recruitment effort, but an unprecedented gamble and investment in Jiang Yun's value and potential!

Behind his mask, Jiang Yun's brow furrowed imperceptibly.

Grand Elder.

He was no wet-behind-the-ears novice; his journey from C City to the provincial capital, though not long, had taught him the weight this title carried.

It was definitely not just an honor; it also meant responsibility, constraints, and all sorts of potential entanglements that came with being deeply bound to a massive power.

His goal for this trip was clear.

To obtain resources and increase his strength.

To head to Sky Dome Academy.

Everything centered on the growth of his own contracted beasts.

A status that might limit his freedom and bring extra chores was not what he desired at this moment.

His silence and that slight stagnation in his aura.

Did not escape President Yun Xi's eyes.

This unfathomable President seemed able to see into people's hearts; without waiting for Jiang Yun to formulate words of polite refusal, he continued with a smile, his voice gentle yet carrying a calm that saw through everything.

"little friend Dong Xuan, don't be in a hurry to decide. Let me finish speaking first."

"The Grand Elder of our guild is slightly different from those of ordinary Sects or powers."

He picked up his teacup, gently blowing on the swirling steam, and explained unhurriedly, every word seemingly carefully weighed.

"First, the Grand Elder enjoys the highest authority of all core Elders of the guild, with access to the guild's Library and Secret Vault resources, the right to participate in and know the guild's highest secrets, and a deciding vote on major matters."

"Second."

He raised his eyes and looked at Jiang Yun with a clear gaze.

"The Grand Elder is not bound by the guild's daily affairs and regulations. There is no need for rotations or handling administrative chores; you may come and go as you please. The guild exists to serve the Grand Elder, rather than the Grand Elder being restricted by the guild."

"Third, and most importantly, the guild will provide the Grand Elder with a fixed annual quota of top-tier resources, including but not limited to high-level crystal cores, rare spiritual materials, ancient appraisal manuals, and even... priority knowledge and acquisition rights for wonders like the five-colored origin divine seed."

When the word 'resources' came up.

Especially when terms like 'top-tier resource quota,' 'rare spiritual materials,' and 'priority knowledge and acquisition rights' were clearly spoken by President Yun Xi.

Deep within Jiang Yun's eyes, which were originally as calm as a deep pool, a flash of light suddenly flickered that was hard to conceal!

Resources!

His primary purpose for this trip.

Wasn't it to obtain more and better resources to increase his strength?

As a Grand Elder of the Appraisers Guild.

The resources he could mobilize each year would likely be an astronomical figure, enough to make any Gold Rank or even Eclipsing Moon Rank Beast Tamer go wild!

This was much faster and more stable than working alone and accumulating slowly!

Seeming to sense the sudden fluctuation in Jiang Yun's state of mind, the smile at the corners of President Yun Xi's mouth deepened as he continued to throw out an even more tempting bargaining chip.

"Not only that, after becoming a Grand Elder, for any form of cooperation you have in the future with S Province, other major provinces, or even any power, Family, or chamber of commerce in the Central Continent, the guild can act as your full representative, responsible for reaching out, negotiating, and managing the process, without charging any mediation fees."

He paused.

Making sure Jiang Yun heard every single word.

"All profits generated from the cooperation will be sent in full and directly to your hands. The guild is only responsible for maintaining your interests and reputation, ensuring fair cooperation, and using this to expand the guild's influence and networking. In short, you only need to focus on improving your own Dao of appraisal; all mundane affairs and negotiations will be handled for you by the guild."

"Cooperation?"

Behind the mask, Jiang Yun's voice carried a trace of subtle doubt.

He had heard that Advanced Appraisers could earn rich rewards by appraising treasures for others, but cooperation with various powers... seemed to cover a much broader scope?

What form would it take specifically?

Appraisal commissions?

Consulting?

Or something else?

He looked at President Yun Xi and Vice President Lin Yan, waiting for a more detailed explanation.

President Yun Xi and Lin Yan exchanged a glance, a knowing smile flashing in both their eyes.

Vice President Lin Yan understood perfectly and took over the conversation, his tone respectful with a hint of mystery.

"Great Master Dong Xuan, you don't need to understand the details right now. Simple put, after you performed that miracle at the Wanjian Heavenly Altar today, requests for cooperation will soon come flying in like snowflakes."

A confident smile appeared on his face.

"You only need to know that by becoming a Grand Elder, you will have the most professional, reliable power that is completely on your side to handle all these complex affairs for you, ensuring your interests are maximized, while you yourself can remain detached, saving time and effort."

He paused and added, "Of course, the final decision on whether to accept a certain cooperation always remains in your hands. The guild only filters, paves the way, and provides protection for you."

These words.

Completely dispelled Jiang Yun's final concerns.

A powerful backer, abundant fixed resources, a professional representative team, no need to be bogged down by trivial matters, and retaining complete freedom and final decision-making power... these conditions were practically tailor-made!

President Yun Xi had clearly seen through his mindset of pursuing efficiency, fearing trouble, and placing extreme importance on resources and freedom.

Jiang Yun quickly weighed the options in his mind.

The pros and cons were clear, and the pros far outweighed the cons.

Becoming a Grand Elder would not only provide stable resources but also allow him to use the guild's power to accumulate wealth and influence faster, paving the way for his future.

And what he needed to give in return seemed to be merely a nominal affiliation and the potential need to represent the guild or solve some truly thorny appraisal problems as a Grand Elder at certain key moments.

And this.

Was something he was already good at and might even enjoy.

Thinking of this, Jiang Yun no longer hesitated.

He raised his head.

Meeting President Yun Xi's gentle and expectant gaze, as well as Vice President Lin Yan's nervous and excited eyes, he spoke slowly, his voice clear and steady.

"The President's kindness is more than this Junior deserves."

"Since you do not reject me, I am willing to contribute my humble efforts to our S Province Appraisers Guild."

"This position of Grand Elder... I, will accept it."

As his voice fell.

The last trace of faint scrutiny and expectation deep within President Yun Xi's eyes finally turned completely into relief and relaxation.

He let out a soft breath.

The smile on his face became even more genuine.

To be honest, facing a Prodigy like Jiang Yun who could not be judged by Common logic at all, he wasn't entirely sure even after offering such generous conditions.

Jiang Yun's composure and the occasional depth beyond his years always made him feel somewhat unfathomable.

"Good! Good! Good!"

President Yun Xi said 'good' three times in a row.

It was evident his mood was pleasant.

"little friend Dong Xuan... no, I should call you 'Elder Dong Xuan' now. From today on, you are a member of our guild's core high-level management, equal to me, and there is no need for the etiquette of a Junior anymore."

Vice President Lin Yan was even more excited, immediately standing up from his prayer mat, straightening his robes, and giving Jiang Yun a solemn salute, his voice loud and full of respect.

"Junior Lin Yan greets the Grand Elder!"

His movements were meticulous.

The form of address had also changed from Great Master Dong Xuan to the more respectful and inclusive 'Grand Elder,' and the gap in status was instantly widened.

Seeing Lin Yan, who was at least two cycles older than himself and a Vice President, bowing so respectfully and calling himself a Junior, the corner of Jiang Yun's mouth behind the mask couldn't help but twitch slightly.

This feeling..."}],

A bit strange, but it seems... not bad either?

He quickly adjusted his mindset.

He accepted the bow calmly.

And gave a slight nod.

“Vice President Lin, there is no need for such formalities. I will need your assistance in the future.”

Jiang Yun's voice remained calm.

But it carried a hint of approval.

“I wouldn't dare! It is Lin Yan's honor to serve the Grand Elder!”

Lin Yan said hurriedly, a bright smile on his face.

Being able to build a good relationship with the youngest Grand Elder in history was a great Opportunity for him as well.

President Yun Xi watched this scene with satisfaction. With a wave of his sleeve, two streaks of light flew out and hovered before Jiang Yun.

One streak of light transformed into a palm-sized token, made of a material that was neither metal nor jade.

The token was a deep dark gold color. On the front was a relief of a half-open, strange eye that seemed capable of seeing through all things. The eye was surrounded by profound stars and runic patterns. On the back, the words 'Grand Elder' were carved in ancient seal script. The brushwork was powerful, emitting a faint, soul-soothing Law fluctuation.

The other streak of light transformed into a slightly smaller silver-white token with a simple design. The front bore the character for 'Appraiser,' and the back bore the words 'Grand Tutor,' representing his official status as a Grand Tutor Level Appraiser.

“These are the Grand Elder Token and the Grand Tutor Token.”

President Yun Xi introduced them:

“The Grand Elder Token is not only the highest symbol of status in our guild, but with it, you can receive the highest level of treatment at any Appraisers Guild within the Human Federation. You can mobilize some local resources and possess special authorities; Lin Yan will explain the details to you later. The Grand Tutor Token is your official credential as an Appraiser.”

Jiang Yun reached out and took the two tokens.

The Grand Elder Token felt warm in his hand, as if it possessed a spirit of its own, creating a subtle resonance with the Beast Taming Power in his body. He nodded and put them away properly.

“Thank you, President.”

“Since we are Family, there is no need for thanks.”

President Yun Xi waved his hand.

His tone became increasingly friendly.

“This Jian Yun Residence will be your exclusive residence at the guild headquarters from now on. The Peak is equipped with a Spirit Gathering Grand Formation, and quiet rooms, pill rooms, and treasure appraisal rooms are all available for your use at any time. If you find this place inconvenient, you can choose a residence anywhere in the provincial capital, and the guild will arrange it for you.”

Hearing this, Jiang Yun's heart stirred.

He remembered that Su Qingxue's cunning Nine-Tailed Fox was still waiting for him in the shadows. He had many secrets, and living in the Core Area of the guild headquarters for a long time, while safe, might also bring unnecessary attention and investigation.

Furthermore.

After leaving the Appraisers Guild, he would appear in public under his real name.

The identity of Dong Xuan was only to obtain a continuous stream of resources.

He couldn't stay here for too long.

Thinking of this.

Jiang Yun spoke:

“I appreciate the President's kindness. However, I already have a temporary place to stay in the provincial capital. It's quite quiet, and I have some personal belongings stored there. Since this is my residence, I will visit often, but I am more accustomed to living in my original place on a daily basis.”

His words were reasonable.

President Yun Xi did not insist.

He just nodded slightly: “That is fine as well; follow your heart. The doors here will always be open for you.”

The matter seemed to have come to an end.

His status was set, and the rewards were received.

Jiang Yun felt that the purpose of this trip had been more than achieved.

He cupped his hands again.

“President, Vice President Lin, if there is nothing else, I will take my lea...”

Before the word 'leave' could be uttered.

President Yun Xi, who had been smiling all along, suddenly gave a light chuckle and interrupted him.

“Elder Dong Xuan.”

President Yun Xi's tone carried a hint of subtle playfulness and understanding.

“Talking about leaving now is perhaps... premature.”

“Hmm?”

Jiang Yun looked at him in confusion.

Beside him, Vice President Lin Yan also seemed to have remembered something, and a strange smile appeared on his face—a mix of anticipation, excitement, and a hint of wanting to watch a good show.

President Yun Xi picked up the already cold spiritual tea and didn't mind, taking a small sip. His gaze seemed to penetrate the hall, looking toward the sky outside Tian Jian Peak that was gradually being dyed by the twilight, and further away where many auras seemed to be quietly converging from the shadows.

He put down the teacup and looked at Jiang Yun. The smile on his handsome face was like a spring breeze, but the words he spoke made Jiang Yun instantly understand something.

“Elder Dong Xuan, do you really think that by accepting the position of Grand Elder, today's events are over?”

President Yun Xi shook his head.

His tone carried a sense of 'you are still too young,' but there was no blame, only light teasing.

“The commotion you caused at the Wanjian Heavenly Altar today, the waves you stirred up, are far more than just a simple assessment.”

“Your current status and the interests involved are definitely not just those of a newly promoted Grand Tutor or a Grand Elder of this guild.”

He paused.

Word by word, he spoke clearly.

“You are now, in the eyes of all the factions in S Province, a mobile, living, and infinitely potential... gold mountain. You are a strategic existence capable of changing the balance of power.”

“Do you think Shi Potian, Qian Guangquan, Feng Xiao, the Huang Family, the Liu Family... and even more small and large families and chambers of commerce that have yet to show their faces, will easily let go of the Opportunity to form a bond with you?”

“The cooperation you just asked about...”

A deep light flashed in President Yun Xi's eyes.

“Soon, you will experience firsthand what that means.”

“Today, your Tian Jian Peak... I'm afraid it won't be quiet.”

“Receiving the rewards and taking over as Grand Elder was just the prologue.”

“The real highlight, the visits and competition from various factions, is... just about to begin.”

As President Yun Xi's voice fell.

As if to confirm his words, the cloud-mist Formation surrounding the outskirts of Tian Jian Peak suddenly sent out a slight but clear fluctuation.

Immediately after.

A respectful and loud voice.

Passed through the Formation.

Echoing above the Jian Yun Residence.

“Shi Potian of the War Beast Sect, bringing a modest gift, comes specifically to congratulate Grand Tutor Dongxuan on his promotion! I ask Grand Tutor Dongxuan to spare a moment to meet!”

This voice was like the first stone thrown into a lake.

Almost as soon as Shi Potian's voice faded.

A clear announcement also came from another direction.

“Qian Family Clan Chief Qian Guangquan, here to visit Grand Tutor Dongxuan and congratulate the Grand Tutor on his coronation!”

A third direction... a fourth direction... the announcements rose one after another, in an endless stream!

One aura after another, some strong and some weak, but all representing various factions, converged rapidly toward Tian Jian Peak like a swarm of bees smelling fragrance!

The smile on Vice President Lin Yan's face grew even brighter.

The way he looked at Jiang Yun was full of sympathy and anticipation.

Jiang Yun stood where he was.

Listening to the successive announcements from outside and feeling those rapidly approaching auras full of eagerness and calculation, the expression under his mask stiffened visibly for the first time.

He suddenly understood the cooperation President Yun Xi had mentioned and what Lin Yan's mysterious smile meant.

He also understood.

As the youngest Grand Tutor/Grand Elder in history, what he was about to face would likely be a scene even more bustling and troublesome than the Grand Tutor assessment.

President Yun Xi stood up leisurely.

He patted Jiang Yun's shoulder and spoke in a relaxed tone.

“Let's go, Elder Dong Xuan. As the host, it's time to go out and greet the guests.”

“Remember, you are now a Grand Elder of the Appraisers Guild, representing the face of our guild. However...”

He winked, showing a hint of cunning.

“How to negotiate and what you want is entirely up to you. The guild is your strongest backup.”

Jiang Yun took a deep breath.

Suppressing the sudden sense of trouble in his heart, his eyes became calm and deep again.

Since he couldn't avoid it.

Then... face it calmly.

Just as well.

He also wanted to see how many... benefits and resources this cooperation could bring him.

He straightened his black robe.

He stepped forward.

Following President Yun Xi and Vice President Lin Yan, he walked toward the courtyard outside Jian Yun Residence, which was already enveloped by twilight and the enthusiasm of various parties.

The good show has just begun.