Treasure-hunting: Into the Unknown

Holy Phoenix was disappointed when she heard Zachary. However, since he had made his choice, it was pointless for her to continue arguing. Besides, she knew Zachary had a cooperation agreement with Phoenix House, so she could still recruit him in the future.

"Well, you have clearly made your choice, so I won't say anything further. But remember that the doors of the Phoenix Pavilion are always open for you. You can join us at any time you wish," Holy Phoenix said, trying her best to be calm and open. She couldn't be a sore loser and burn her bridges in disappointment.

"Thank you very much for your generosity!" Zachary replied politely with a nod.

Holy Phoenix then turned around and left without so much as glancing at Jaxon, who was gloating by this point.

"I think I'll take my leave as well," Larry chimed in as he turned to Marvin and nodded goodbye. He summoned his Red Auspicious Dragon and flew away.

"Harley, you have definitely made a wise choice!" Jaxon remarked as he gazed at Zachary. He was ecstatic as though he had hit the jackpot.

"Thank you, Master Jaxon. I'd greatly appreciate your help in the future," Zachary replied with cupped hands.

"Of course I will help you as much as I can — a spoken word is a promise! I'm serious about my daughter's marriage with you though. I really hope you will give careful consideration to my offer." Jaxon knew that even if he enlisted Zachary into the Xiao Clan, it was possible that he might leave the clan at any time unless they developed a really close relationship.

"I suggest we discuss this later." Seeing that it would not be easy to refuse him directly, Zachary decided to try the evasion tactic.

"Congratulations! Master Jaxon, we're glad to know that you have recruited Harley successfully!" It was Marvin and the other higher-ups of the Shura College, who were approaching to congratulate Jaxon.

Though the other sect leaders present were envious, they couldn't do anything but watch the Xiao Clan snatch Zachary away from under their noses.

Soon Tracy announced that the meeting was over and everyone started dispersing.

"Harley, can I have a word with you?" Marvin asked Zachary.

Zachary glanced at Marvin c

, you must leave the Celestial College first. The Shura College will help you to apply for this. Normally, the Celestial College wouldn't let you leave very easily, but since this is your personal decision, they won't be able to change it. At the most, they will stretch the procedure," Marvin explained coolly.

"Oh? Please allow me to express my gratitude beforehand, Dean Marvin. It's really a headache for me to apply for the permission from the Celestial College!" Zachary answered, bowing and cupping his hands. He knew that Katrina would surely arrange for him to drop out of the Celestial College, but if the matter could be handled by the Shura College, it would save her a lot of trouble.

"I must remind you though that although Jaxon values and appreciates you very much, it doesn't mean that you can do whatever you want after you join the Xiao Clan. He is a very cautious and suspicious man. If you do things that stir up his suspicions, he won't turn a blind eye irrespective of your talent or status. So, you must be very careful about your actions. Moreover, there are many other excellent warriors of Imperial Level in the Xiao Clan. Since you are so highly valued by Jaxon, you will inevitably attract a lot of jealousy and trouble from insidious people but you'd better endure all of it. Don't ever get into a conflict with them. Remember this!" Marvin warned sternly.

"Okay, I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for the heads up!" Zachary nodded gratefully.