Chapter 49: Three Families, Two Gangs, Shortage of Medicinal Herbs

Chapter 49: Three Families, Two Gangs, Shortage of Medicinal Herbs

Su Chen had originally planned to visit the apothecary in the morning, but as soon as he woke up, he heard a knock at his door.

“Master needs us,” Li Mo explained when Su Chen opened the door.

It turned out Hong Ming had summoned all his disciples for an urgent matter. Li Mo had already informed the others the previous day and had specially come to fetch Su Chen early that morning.

“Did Master say what it’s about?” Su Chen asked after finishing his morning routine.

Li Mo shook his head. “No, but it must be serious.”

This was unusual—Hong Ming had never called a meeting like this since Li Mo joined the institute. Both men sensed Hong Ming’s gravity as they left Su Chen’s residence, grabbing breakfast before heading to the martial arts institute.

“By the way, did you hear? Guo Martial Arts Hall has stopped accepting new disciples,” Li Mo suddenly said.

“Stopped recruitment?” Su Chen paused mid-step.

Li Mo nodded. “Word is they were ambushed by a powerful stranger. Guo Zhong, their hall master, got injured yesterday and lost a hundred taels in a bet. Now they’ve shut down recruitment.”

He chuckled. “Whoever they offended must’ve been formidable. They just opened their doors, and now they’re closed again.”

Su Chen smirked. “Maybe heaven finally decided to balance the scales.”

“Haha, could be!” Li Mo laughed.

They continued chatting as they walked, arriving at the martial arts institute shortly after. Qin Hao and Fang Rou had already arrived, exchanging greetings with them. Zhou Tao and the others trickled in soon after.

Once everyone gathered, Hong Ming cleared his throat. “I’ve called this meeting to announce two matters.”

The disciples straightened, sensing his solemnity.

“You’ve likely heard about the rebels in Huangshi Citadel,” Hong Ming began. “The unrest has spread to nearby cities, including White Stone City.”

Nods rippled through the group, especially from Zhou Tao and Fang Rou, who had heard the rumors. Their expressions darkened.

“White Stone City may descend into chaos soon. Though you’re martial artists, avoid reckless actions,” Hong Ming warned.

He paused. “Zhou Tao and Fang Rou, your families’ influence will protect you if you stay cautious. But the rest of you…”

His gaze settled on Li Mo’s group. “Li Mo’s temperament is steady, and Qin Hao’s family handles trade, so they’ll manage. But Su Chen…” Hong Ming hesitated. “If things get dire, move into the institute.”

Su Chen bowed. “Thank you, Master. I’ll be careful.”

Hong Ming nodded, then turned to Li Mo. “Tell Xiao Chen about the city’s factions later.”

Li Mo acknowledged the order, while the others exchanged glances, noting Hong Ming’s particular concern for Su Chen.

The master continued, “The second matter concerns Vital Energy Powder. Starting today, each of you will receive only one portion monthly.”

The disciples stiffened, except Zhou Tao and Fang Rou.

Hong Ming observed their reactions. “Most of you don’t rely on the powder—it only stabilizes Vital Energy at this stage. But for Su Chen and Qin Hao, it’s different. Their potential demands it.”

He sighed inwardly. The institute’s supplies were dwindling. The current stock was leftover inventory, and the herbs required for the powder were scarce. If he couldn’t replenish them, he’d have to prioritize Su Chen and Qin Hao, leaving the others without.

“That’s all,” Hong Ming said, dismissing the group.

As they exited, Qin Hao invited Zhou Tao and the others to Drunken Immortal Pavilion for drinks. Fang Rou lingered to offer Su Chen help, then departed.

Li Mo watched her go, then grinned at Su Chen. “Master wants me to explain the city’s factions to avoid trouble.”

Su Chen leaned in. “Go on.”

“Hong Family, Huang Family, and Jiang Family are the top three martial arts institutes here—second tier,” Li Mo explained. “The first tier includes Three Great Clans—Lin, Ning, and Han—and Three Major Gangs: Jade White Gang, Broken Blade Sect, and Long River Gang. Guo Martial Arts Hall also belongs to this tier, even after Guo Zhong’s injury. Avoid all conflicts with them.”

Su Chen nodded. “Understood.”

After parting ways with Li Mo, Su Chen headed to the apothecary.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end