“Another money-losing venture, Daoist Jiao?” Li Fan quipped with amusement.

Seeing a customer, Jiao Xiuyuan’s angry expression instantly shifted into a welcoming smile. But upon hearing Li Fan’s teasing remark, his face darkened again.

He chuckled awkwardly. “What are you talking about, Fellow Daoist? I, Jiao, have never conducted business at a loss.” Then, through gritted teeth, he muttered under his breath, “That brat actually dared to play me. Does he really think Jiao Xiuyuan is an easy one…”

Li Fan had heard him grumble like this more than once before and simply smiled without comment. His eyes fell on the small cauldron on the table. “Fellow Daoist Jiao, this small cauldron…”

Jiao Xiuyuan’s eyes lit up, and he immediately launched into an enthusiastic explanation. “This cauldron...