C75 Stifling Treasure Man

Lei's Brand has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, amassing considerable strength and establishing a presence across the nation. To the casual observer, it appears indistinguishable from any regular pawnshop.

Yet, the truth is that the branch managers of Lei's Brand, along with some of their seasoned affiliates, hold a dual identity as Stifling Treasure Men within the Eight Gates! Known in the south as "Stifling Treasure" and in the north as "Spirit," these Stifling Treasure Men frequently traverse secluded mountains, dense forests, and expansive rivers. They possess unique skills that enable them to uncover treasures long forgotten or hidden away.

Typically solitary figures, the Stifling Treasure Men have been remarkably united by Lei's Brand, which has managed to bring together nearly all of those from the Supernatural World into one formidable collective.

In addition to their ongoing quest for hidden treasures, it seems they also clandestinely run and control the country's largest black market, attracting numerous skilled individuals.

Boss Wu noticed my contemplative expression and sneered, "Kid, have you finally remembered what Lei's Brand is all about?"

"I'm aware of the extent of Lei's Brand's influence, but I assure you, I didn't steal these items! What does a photograph prove? You need to present solid evidence!" I exclaimed, refusing to believe that my foster father was the thief. Given his esteemed reputation, where a single divination could earn him a fortune, it was inconceivable that he would steal for money.

"Hmph, if you didn't steal it, then it must have been your dad. No wonder he died so young—he probably got what he deserved!" Boss Wu retorted with a cold laugh.

His words struck a nerve. Nothing infuriates me more than hearing slander about my adoptive father or the insinuation that he met with some sort of divine punishment!

A surge of rage welled up inside me, but upon reflection, I quickly reined it in. In a hushed tone, I addressed Boss Wu, "Yes, I took it. I also took a book of Taoist Secret Techniques. If I tell you where it's hidden, would you consider letting me go?"

"Taoist Secret Technique? Where is it hidden?" The Stifling Treasure Man, a fellow denizen of the Supernatural World, perked up at the mention of the Secret Technique, drawn to it as a hungry dog to a steamed bun, instinctively leaning in closer.

"The Taoist Secret Technique is right..." As he leaned in, I viciously opened my mouth and bit off half of his ear!

I spat out the bloody chunk onto the ground and yelled fiercely, "I will never let anyone speak ill of my father, not even if you're the emperor himself!"

"You... You rabid dog! Someone come here! What are you all good for?" Boss Wu, grimacing from the pain, kicked me hard and clutched his bleeding ear as he called out to the door.

Quickly, two burly men burst through the door, brandishing gleaming weapons. Boss Wu, glaring at me with fury, barked, "Kid, considering we're both from the same thieving background, I was going to let you off with just a broken arm. But now, it seems you need a harsher lesson to understand the might of Lei's Brand! Take his whole arm off!"

"You wouldn't dare!" I screamed, and suddenly, a surge of strength erupted within me. With that force, I snapped the ropes that bound me.

But even with the ropes gone, my limbs were still shackled by iron chains, etched with runes.

"Hmph, I knew you were no ordinary man. This chain is incredibly sturdy; you might as well resign yourself to staying put! My young associate here hasn't killed a dog before, but if you keep thrashing about, I can't promise his blade won't find your head!" Boss Wu sneered maliciously, signaling to his henchman.

The henchman approached me with a stern face, pressed down on my head, and lifted the gleaming cleaver.

Realizing my life hung by a thread, the rage inside me began to fade. A true man knows when to yield. As long as I survived, I would find a way to get back at them.

With that thought, I quickly cried out, "Wait! My... My adoptive father is a member of Heaven Connecting Palace. The wooden box and the contents of my backpack were left to me by my father, who is known as Half Immortal Zhao!"

Upon hearing this, Boss Wu hastily motioned for the henchman to stop and asked with astonishment, "What? Your father is Half Immortal Zhao?"

I nodded repeatedly, yet to my surprise, Boss Wu sneered and said, "If your dad is truly Half Immortal Zhao, then I'm even more convinced that he's the one who stole these items!"

"What are you implying?" I demanded, both puzzled and furious.