Wang Baoguang jolted and hurriedly scrambled out from the deep handprint.
Even in such a sorry state, his treasured [Miniature Imaging Disk] was still well-protected, without a scratch.
After checking the condition of the Miniature Imaging Disk and carefully brushing off the mud and dust, he tidied up his clothes, then smoothly entered Wang Shouzhe's study, nodding and bowing with an ingratiating smile, "Old Ancestor Grandfather, what instructions do you have for me?"
He acted as if nothing had happened.
It was clear he was used to being beaten.
Wang Shouzhe beckoned him over and gestured with an open palm.
Wang Baoguang's face immediately fell.
The Old Ancestor Grandfather's orders were something he absolutely did not dare to disobey. Even though he was extremely reluctant, he still respectfully placed the Miniature Imaging Disk into Wang Shouzhe's open palm with a bitter face.
Taking the Miniature Imaging Disk, Wang Shouzhe immediately began reviewing the photos Baoguang had taken through the crystal stone screen.
He had to admit, this kid's photography skills were indeed quite good. For the same subject, this kid could capture a slightly better effect than others.
Wait a minute… Isn't this a photo of him walking side by side into the Drunken Immortal Building with Yun Tiange? Judging by the angle, Yun Tiange almost looks like she's leaning into his embrace… And then there's a photo of him glancing wretchedly at Lu Qiu Qingyang!
Setting down the Miniature Imaging Disk, Wang Shouzhe looked at Wang Baoguang with a complicated expression.
How on earth did this darned thing manage that?
"Uh…" Wang Baoguang said weakly, "In a public setting, hiding from others' notice is much easier compared to doing so in Old Ancestor Grandfather's courtyard. Even a True Immortal wouldn't unfold their God Sense at all times, covering everyone. But, I wouldn't dare go into the Cuiwei Residence private rooms…"
"As for capturing the right moments, that's all down to talent. I don't know why, but I can always catch the perfect moment to take the perfect shot~~ Old Ancestor Grandfather, look at this series of photos of you leaving, so arrogant, domineering~ terribly impressive…"
And then, there was nothing more.
Soon, many more wooden stakes appeared in Wang Shouzhe's courtyard. Wang Baoguang was tied up with ropes on all four limbs, suspended in a large X-shape, face down. The Artifact Spirit Green Xiaoyi wrapped the Miniature Imaging Disk in energy, joyfully taking photos of Baoguang from all angles like an unmanned aerial drone.
"Young Master Baoguang, turn your face a little, yes, perfect angle, give us a smile. Click~"
"Young Master Baoguang, let's do another close-up overhead shot~~ focus is on your micro-expressions~~ showcasing your defiance and disdain after corporal punishment… click"
"Let's have another stubborn little expression that shows you won't learn a lesson… click"
"The next vibe is important, it needs to show your unwavering determinate gossiping spirit despite a thousand obstacles! Slightly tilt your head, face the light, eyes resolute, yes, just like that, Young Master Baoguang, you truly have talent, click."
Just as Green Xiaoyi was enthusiastically taking photos, Cai Youdao walked into Wang Shouzhe's courtyard.
Seeing this scene, he chuckled, "Isn't this the Baoguang kid? Aren't you the one who claimed 'not afraid of any authority, determined to pursue the gossip career to the end'? What happened, are you tripping over your own shoelaces?"
"Hello, Senior Cai." Wang Baoguang greeted, full of indifference, "On the road to realizing ideals, life is bound to have some bumps. No need to mind them, just stand up, dust yourself off, and forge ahead resolutely."
"I admire your tenacity, kid." Cai Youdao rubbed his hands and chuckled, "Want me to teach you a few advanced stealth techniques? I've wandered far and wide and have probably offended countless people, surviving all thanks to these tricks. But… your Senior Cai is a bit tight on funds recently…"
"Senior Cai, your perspective is a bit small." Wang Baoguang's spirit rose, and he said righteously, "Stop fixating on my little earnings, how are you ever going to achieve financial freedom that way? If you ask me, if we're going to do it, let's do it big…"
Hearing this, Cai Youdao's interest was piqued immediately.
He suddenly brought out a fan from nowhere, fanning Wang Baoguang with it, his eyes glowing as he inquired, "Baoguang kid, quickly tell me what good ideas you have? How can we hit it big for financial freedom?"
Before Wang Baoguang could answer, Wang Shouzhe's voice came from inside: "Old Cai, roll in here and speak."
Cai Youdao's face tightened, and he lowered his voice, "The big boss is unhappy, I'll go handle him first, then I'll find you to discuss the big money plan."
"Be quick, and try to say nice things, my Old Ancestor Grandfather loves flattery."
Did they really think he was deaf? At this distance, did they really think he couldn't hear just by lowering their voices?
In the study, Wang Shouzhe's face darkened: "Wang Baoguang, you come in too."
"Yes, Old Ancestor Grandfather."
Wang Baoguang immediately scrambled down from the stake.
To begin with, the stakes and ropes weren't that sturdy; he merely refrained from struggling due to the Old Ancestor Grandfather's authority. Now, with the permission, he freed himself with a strong twist.
In a short while.
Cai Youdao and Wang Baoguang stood before Wang Shouzhe's desk, each hanging their heads, showing a willingness to listen to the boss's teachings.
"Old Cai, how's the matter going?" Wang Shouzhe took a sip of tea and spoke lightly.
"I did follow for a bit, but only dared to follow on the outskirts." Cai Youdao said, "But Boss, you know, although my injuries have improved a lot, and I can barely put on a front. It's just impossible to sneak into the Prince's Mansion to gather information. If those two True Immortals on the other side discover me, I might lose my life."
After a pause, Cai Youdao eagerly added, "Boss, I injured my foundation this time from pretending to be tough. Maybe you could give me a raise, as compensation?"
"Hehe~"
Wang Shouzhe sneered and was genuinely too lazy to acknowledge him. He bypassed Cai Youdao and, a bit headachy, looked at Wang Baoguang: "Can't you be more capable and do something decent?"
"Old Ancestor Grandpa, I am doing something decent." Wang Baoguang said innocently, "Doesn't our Clan School encourage everyone to develop a career based on what they love most?"
Career? Is your career eating melon as a paparazzo and smearing your own Old Ancestor?
Wang Shouzhe really felt like slapping him to end it once and for all.
Nowadays, with the large population of the Wang family, there are inevitably a few brats. But none of them are as bizarrely bratty as Wang Baoguang, who occasionally riles him up to the point of wanting to slap him.
However, Baoguang is ultimately his descendant, an extension of his bloodline.
Wang Shouzhe took a deep breath, controlled his tone to remain calm: "Since you like intelligence work so much, then report to Elder Mei next time and go there to utilize your talents, at least it's putting things to good use."
"I'm not going!" Wang Baoguang was startled and immediately shook his head like a rattle, his tone unwavering, "I don't like intelligence work. I only focus on 'restoring' gossip anecdotes based on the emotional lives of big characters. Remember, when I was little, Old Ancestor Grandpa you said… that to do a career you need to be focused, not half-hearted… dreams are precious, don't kill children's dreams… it's not hard to do one thing well; the hard part is doing it for a lifetime…"
"You can shut up now." Wang Shouzhe interrupted, annoyed, "Since you love emotional gossip so much, I'll give you a chance. Do well and you can continue your dream; if not, you'll go back to the family farm and work the fields for life."
Upon hearing this, Wang Baoguang's eyes instantly shone brightly, patting his chest and saying, "Old Ancestor Grandpa, don't worry, I'll complete the mission."
"Hmph, let's talk when you've done it well." Wang Shouzhe casually took a pen and wrote down a few names, handed them to Wang Baoguang, then waved his hand impatiently, "This task has some danger. Ask Old Cai to assist you, be mindful of safety. Go on, go on, don't hang around in front of me."
"Alright~ Just wait for my good news~"
Wang Baoguang, feeling as though he received an imperial decree, immediately pulled the bewildered Cai Youdao and ran out excitedly.
Once out of Wang Shouzhe's courtyard, he couldn't help but look up at the sky with excitement.
From today, he is no longer the man walking behind the light, but gossiping by decree~!
After they both had left, Wang Shouzhe involuntarily rubbed his sore temples in the study.
Finally arranged a suitable job for that smelly kid Baoguang. Whether this rascal can succeed or not, at least this matter will occupy a lot of his energy, preventing him from constantly prying into Wang Shouzhe's gossip.
…
In the blink of an eye, another seven or eight days have passed.
In the study, Wang Shouzhe was at the desk drawing and contemplating, sometimes frowning, as if pondering and mapping out some grand scheme.
An hour later, he finally finished his work.
