Chapter 123: Brazenly Stealing Someone Away

Old Fang, seeing that Liu Fan was unwilling to accept, no longer pressed the matter. Instead, he glared resentfully at a few of his juniors and then awkwardly said, “Young friend, these few young fellows of mine are inexperienced; please don’t mind them. Since you’re unwilling, then let each of us go our own way, hehe!” Clearly, the old man knew his intentions had been seen through by Liu Fan, so he had no choice but to relent, though in his heart he cursed his juniors for not recognizing talent and resolved to teach them a lesson when he returned.

“Heh, how could that be, Old Fang? Besides, I’m truly too young,” Liu Fan replied lightly, not offended by Old Fang’s attitude. He emphasized that although he was young, his ability was undeniable. If they weren’t sincerely seeking friendship, then there was no need for him to ingratiate himself.

No sooner had Liu Fan spoken than Fang Zezhong, Old Fang’s eldest son, flushed slightly. Though embarrassed, he did not forget the mission he came on and steeled himself to say, “Um… well… sir, we’ve actually come about another matter today.”

“Oh? Please, go ahead,” Liu Fan replied calmly, sensing that the real business was about to unfold.

Clearing his throat twice and straightening his posture, Fang Zezhong awkwardly said, “We have come regarding the two sets of martial arts manuals you taught the Wild Wolf Battalion. Also, we wish to invite you to serve as the chief instructor of our army, naturally with the rank of Major General. We wonder if you would be willing to accept such an honor.” He looked at Liu Fan nervously, fearing an outright refusal.

No sooner had Fang Zezhong finished than Liu Yandong grew displeased. He had initially thought they came merely for the manuals, but now, openly poaching under his nose, he was furious. “You ‘Big Mouth’! Trying to steal my man right under my nose! Didn’t you bother to inquire who Old Liu is? We agreed it was only the manuals we wanted. If you don’t explain yourself, don’t even think about leaving today, hmph!” He glared fiercely at Fang Zezhong.

Unfazed by Liu Yandong’s outburst, Fang Zezhong replied with a conciliatory tone, “Old Liu, you can’t say it like that. People naturally strive upward, just as water flows downward. It’s only human nature. And besides, you can’t stop someone from advancing, can you?” Both men were old acquaintances, so the tone was blunt but familiar.

Hearing this, Liu Yandong smiled wryly. When he initially invited Liu Fan out of retirement, he had exhausted every persuasive word, but Liu Fan refused outright. Only out of respect for Sun Jianguo did he reluctantly agree, and even then, it was merely a nominal position. Yet, it had proven that his judgment was sound.

Now, every member of the Wild Wolf Battalion under his command was an expert, having recently triumphed completely in the army-wide competition, defeating every opponent with ease. Their style was unmatched, earning Liu Yandong significant face before other regional commanders. But his swagger had its limits; a few days prior, over drinks with Fang Zezhong, he had let slip Liu Fan’s whereabouts, and now they were here to poach him.

At this, Liu Yandong relaxed, smiling as he said, “Alright, alright, Old Fang is a capable man. If young Fan is willing, then it’s your call.” He resumed his seat nonchalantly, leaving the others puzzled. Just moments before, he seemed ready to fight to the death, now he appeared indifferent. Only perhaps Sun Jianguo among those present understood the deeper game at play.

“Well, young friend, if you don’t wish to join the Capital Military District, at least come to the Military Commission,” Old Fang, clearly acting as a mediator and somewhat favoring his son, suggested.

Liu Fan firmly declined, “Heh, many thanks to Old Fang and Commander Fang for your kindness, but I like to live freely and can’t stand the rigid discipline of the military. If it weren’t for Brother Sun’s sake, I doubt I’d even want to serve as a Colonel instructor. Besides, I’m still a university student and want to focus on my studies — something my grandfather also wishes.” He smiled and continued, “Also, those two manuals of yours will never be widely adopted in the army. Their training standards are too harsh; you need at least the skill of a special forces king. Otherwise, it will only backfire.”

Had Liu Fan not refined the soldiers’ bodies and bones, over ninety percent of them wouldn’t have been able to practice.

Seeing Liu Fan’s resolute words, Fang Zezhong grew increasingly anxious but unwilling to give up. “Can’t you reconsider, sir? We can negotiate better benefits.”

Old Fang shook his head as he saw his son’s agitation. “Enough. If the young friend is unwilling, then let it be. We still have the manuals. With diligent practice, they can produce strong soldiers.” Though he said this, he sighed internally. His son was steady but lacked decisive iron will.

As Old Fang spoke, Fang Zezhong opened his mouth to protest but was silenced by a glare from his father. The room fell into silence.

“Enough talk, come, come, let’s eat first,” Liu Yandong said, sensing the awkwardness. The group moved to the dining hall, where over a dozen people sat around a long table laden with a variety of dishes, each looking and smelling exquisite, making mouths water. This confirmed Fang Jingyi’s reputation as an exceptional cook.

Just then, Sun Jianguo brought over two jars of wine that Liu Fan had gifted. He tried to open the lids but struggled, sweating profusely. “Hey, young Fan, what kind of lids are these? I’ve been pulling for ages and still can’t open them.”

Before Liu Fan could reply, Liu Yandong interjected, “You must be worn out from yesterday’s exercise, weak in your hands. Give it here, I’ll open it.”

“Alright, alright, sir,” Sun Jianguo obeyed, unwilling to argue with his superior. Secretly, he felt a bit smug, recalling that Liu Fan had told him the wine was sealed by secret methods and couldn’t be opened without the right technique.

Sure enough, no matter how hard Liu Yandong tried, the lids wouldn’t budge. His face flushed red. He glanced at Liu Fan, who watched the spectacle with amusement, offering no help. Old Fang, noticing something, also became intrigued. “Let me try,” he said, but despite his efforts, he too failed to open the jars.

The others realized there was something special about the wine, and all eyes turned to Liu Fan.

Without hesitation, Liu Fan took the jar, tracing a circle along the rim with his sword finger. Then, with a flick and a reverse motion, there was a sharp “pop” as the lid flew open. He caught it smoothly in his hand, the entire motion fluid and elegant, awe-inspiring in its grace, especially the fleeting golden light that seemed to reveal his profound mastery.

The moment the jar opened, a rich, mellow aroma wafted forth, filling the air and refreshing everyone’s spirits, as if washing away the fatigue of the day. Even the breath they drew in seemed tinged with sweetness that touched their very hearts.

Liu Fan then poured the wine into each person’s bowl. The amber liquid was crystal clear, with not a trace of impurity—clearly no ordinary drink. Eagerly, everyone tasted it. It was as smooth as a maiden’s silk, sweet and rich like nectar, its fragrance lingering on the tongue. Down the throat, it burned warmly like a roaring fire. Truly, this wine belonged to heaven alone; how often could one savor such a marvel on earth?

“Huh! What kind of wine is this? I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Old Fang, the only other clear-headed person present besides Liu Fan. Upon tasting it, he felt a surge of energy gathering in his dantian, merging seamlessly with his own qi, prompting his puzzled exclamation.