The Steward Demonic Emperor

by Little Merger

Zhuo Yifan was the Demon Emperor. One day, he managed to lay his hands on an ancient emperor’s book, the Nine Serenities Secret Records. As the book was coveted by many, he was targeted by experts and was even betrayed by his student. After his passing, his soul took over another’s body. Brought back to life, in the body of a family servant named Zhuo Fan. Because of the regrets of

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The Steward Demonic Emperor #Chapter 97, Scourge Woman - Read The Steward Demonic Emperor Chapter 97, Scourge Woman Online - All Page - NOVEL NEXT

Chapter 97, Scourge Woman

Under the faint rays of dusk, Zhuo Fan was venturing alone through the city. He seemed to be at ease, but his mind was hard at work. He was spreading his soul to his surroundings for detection purposes.

Yet, after such a long time, no expert appeared in sight.

"Maybe I'm reading too much into this. Maybe my cover isn't blown."

Zhuo Fan whispered. As he strolled around, he ended up around a street with run-down buildings.

This place housed people like Zhuo Fan, those from third-rate clans.

"Hey, this is my area, take your things out of here!"

"Cut the crap, I came first. What's yours? Get lost!"

"Kid, you dare talk back to this young master? Do you know who I am?"

"Humph, why would anyone care? If you think you're so great then how did you end up here?"

These events played out everywhere, the third rate clans claiming a new dwelling as theirs. This was a place where the weak were despised. Yet, ironically, even these weaklings, who were discarded in this dump, fought among each other.

"Humph, what a pathetic bunch. This is why third rate clans can't amount to anything and deserves to be in the slums."

Zhuo Fan spoke in a harsh voice, no longer paying them any heed.

He walked further in and found the shabby buildings on both sides have already been taken.

Everyone eyed him with open hostility, afraid he'd want to fight them over their lodgings.

[This seemed like a common occurrence here.] Zhuo Fan scoffed, his every action was only to further his own goals. Fighting over a house disgraceful to him.

Unfortunately, he found no place vacant as he wandered around. [Do I need to fight for a bed? It is much better to take the sky as my roof.]

Zhuo Fan suddenly halted. His eyes watched the house before him with skepticism, then he looked at the people around oddly.

At the end of this row of shabby houses, there was one building that looked to be in better shape, yet no one lived in it.

With how rowdy the crowd was before, now, there was no sign of anyone around.

Frowning, he turned to the people fighting in doubt, "Why are you foolishly fighting? Can't you see that empty house?"

"Humph, you're the fool! If you want to die, go right ahead!" Someone was quick to snap in derision.

Zhuo Fan was baffled. But one man was kind enough to advise, "Brother, you can stay at my house if you'd like. I will make room for you, but you mustn't step foot in that one."

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"Why?"

Sighing, the man explained, "You are new here so you don't know. The owner is a scourge woman, her body riddled with disease. Many have disregarded this warning and chose to live there. Even though they stayed far away from her, in the back of the house, they all died three days later."

"Yeah, not even beggars would stay there. And because of lack of space in the Drifting Flowers City as the Hundred Pill Meeting approaches, we were sent to this dump! Goddamit, isn't Drifting Flowers Edifice the ruler here? Why don't they just take out this scourged woman once and for all?"

Zhuo Fan snorted inside.

If that woman was disease ridden, he had to see it first hand for himself. [You all are standing outside yapping on and on. None of you dare to take action and still want to send someone else in to kill her.]

It was obvious who were the true scourges.

Ignoring the senseless chatter, Zhuo Fan was walking straight to it under everyone's gaze.

"Brother, do you have a death wish?"

"My life is boundless!" Zhuo Fan waved him off.

Whether plagued or poisoned, while other people heed it in anxiety, he was worriless. Demon Transformation Art could absorb anything in this world, even this disease!

The closer he got to this plagued district, the colder it became. This made Zhuo Fan frown.

He found no plague here, but abnormal changes that could only come about from an array.

"Who's there?"

Zhuo Fan followed the shout to see a girl before a broken-down house in rough linen staring at him.

The girl may be dressed in coarse linen, hiding her form and face, but her pure eyes caught Zhuo Fan off guard.

He swore he never saw such mesmerizing eyes in his life.

"What beautiful eyes!" Zhuo Fan admired.

The girl's cheeks turned a tint rosier. Her eyes lowered a bit but still had the same coldness, "Who are you? Who told you you can come in?"

"Uhm, I am Nightrain City's Song Yu, arriving here for the Hundred Pill Meeting. Because of my third rate clan's status, I can only stay here!" Zhuo Fan cupped his hands, smiling like a gentleman.

The girl frowned, her tone harsh, "Then stay in another house, aren't you afraid of death by coming here?"

"I believe death is unimportant. I saw how selfish and despicable the people here are acting and couldn't recognize such men as my neighbors. I would rather choose death in this peaceful place!"

"Stop lying, think I'd believe you're sophistry?" She huffed.

Helpless, Zhuo Fan made a heartbroken face, "Lady, I'll be honest. All the people before are stronger than me and I can't beat them. If you throw me out, I will die at their hands!"

To such a sound argument, the lady nodded, believing it somewhat. But Zhuo Fan switched tones way too fast, which caught her off guard and caused her to be suspicious. Her tone grew colder as she asked, "You're afraid of being beaten to death, but not afraid of me? Do you know who I am?"

"I do, of course I do!"

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Zhuo Fan bobbed his head, "I heard them say there is a scourge woman here, that must mean you. But I would rather get diseased than die beaten. As they say, a flower should be allowed to roam free... "

"Quiet, don't try to play smart with me!"

The lady snapped, her eyes darting around in thought. She pointed her white finger to a broken house, "Sleep there, but you are to never wander outside at night, or you will die."

"Yes, lady, I promise!" Zhuo Fan nodded and when he looked up, she was gone.

He narrowed his eyes and his revering gaze now turned to one of coldness.

[I couldn't see through her cultivation. Did she reach the Radiant Stage? Or maybe she's a common person? But how can a common person hold such a tone before a Bone Tempering expert?]

[Humph, how amusing!]

Zhuo Fan's mouth perked up into a grin and entered his house, [You must be up to something since you forbid me from going out at night. Then I will do just that and find out what you're hiding!]

Zhuo Fan went to meditate.

Time trickled by and the night cast a cloak of darkness over the slums.

A sudden ripple came from the slums, followed by a sharp decrease in temperature. Zhuo Fan shivered and muttered, "I was right, it is an array."

His hand flashed and revealed a small bottle. It contained the same pill he used in Allbeast Mountain Range, an Energy Concealing Pill!

Whoosh!

Zhuo Fan flicked it into the air and a flash of red came from his body and swallowed it.

The ethereal Blood Infant made Zhuo Fan give off a wicked smile. Not even a Radiant Stage could find it now that it ate that pill.

"Go!"

Blood Infant went through the walls and flew deeper into the slums, reaching the furthest area.

That place was in ruins, ruins that formed an odd array. The lady sat upright in its center, deep in meditation. The bright moonlight, with its extreme coldness, entered inside the array then her body, while the rest chilled the slums.

With each ray of power from the moonlight she absorbed, her body grew a sheen layer of ice. Then, a green flash from her forehead pierced through the ice and slowly faded away.

Each time that happened, the lady's eyelids trembled, as if in great pain!

"3rd-grade array, A Moon Array!"

Zhuo Fan sighed and withdrew the Blood Infant.

He now understood why the previous people died. He thought it was because of the scourge woman's vile conduct or her disease. But after he saw it, he knew that it was neither of those. She was only treating herself.

The ignorant people approached her and the moonlight's yin energy ravaged through their meridians and that damage eventually killed them.

Moon Array allowed one to absorb the moon's yin and cultivate, but spending too much time in it would throw one's inner balance out of whack. Yet, this scourge woman had no intention of cultivating, she was just using the moon's yin to suppress the poison inside her.

Unfortunately, this was not without side effects. As yin gathered inside, her meridians would start to deteriorate and one day, she would become a cripple. The more she tried to contain the poison, the more violent it would be when she couldn't hold it in check any longer.

It could even take her life.

Such a scene caused even the great demon cultivator, Zhuo Fan to feel pity for the lady. Just what poison was so deadly that needed such an extreme method to suppress it?

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Chapter 98, Playing the Fool

At the first ray of dawn, the moon hid back behind the forest while the sun was rising to take its rightful place in the sky. In its shine, the ice on the scourge woman thawed.

The lady opened her eyes and sighed with exhaustion.

"Lady!" A cry of shock came from Zhuo Fan, holding fruits to his bosom as he staggered towards her.

The scourge woman jumped to her feet and waved the leaves to cover the array.

Then she snapped a glare towards Zhuo Fan, "Didn't I tell you not to wander about? What are you doing here?"

"Uh, lady! You didn't say anything about going out during the day!" Zhuo Fan acted oblivious to the array beneath him, pointing naively at the sky.

The scourge woman was stunned, then blushed. She rebuked, "If you are to stay in this place, you must remain in your quarters, even through the day. Or I'll kick you out!"

"Eh?!"

Zhuo Fan shuddered from the heavy injustice that befell him. He hanged his head and walked away with remose. But then he turned to leave the fruits before the woman.

"Lady, I find your complexion to be slightly pale so I picked these this morning, please take them. And thank you for letting me stay." Zhuo Fan sighed and trod away.

He made himself out to seem as though he was a particularly bleak figure, filled with loneliness who had suffered a dash of injustice.

The woman turned from him to the fruits and her heart softened, picking one up.

Zhuo Fan's back was towards her but his soul gave him full knowledge of her every move. He let out a devious grin.

So long she picked just one fruit, it proved he had made a breakthrough to her heart. Next, he needed to stick to her for as long as possible to find out the poison that had cursed her.

There's a fine line between godly medicine and abominable poison. As the Hundred Pill Meeting hadn't begun yet, he had no clue where to search for rare ingredients. Since he had the time, who knew if he might get something from sticking close to this scourge woman?

[He-he-he, women are the best swindler and, ironically enough, the easiest targets!] Zhuo Fan snickered inside as he slumped away from her sight...

Noon.

The scourge woman was doing her usual routine, sitting upright on a rock, absorbing the sunshine one breath at a time.

A sudden hubbub pierced her ears, disturbing her inner peace. With fire in her eyes, she marched to the source.

She watched a throng of people raving, "Kill him, beat that lousy punk to death..."

She approached doubtfully and witnessed Zhuo Fan wrestling with a stocky 3rd layer Bone Tempering expert.

She shook her head ready to leave, but Zhuo Fan yelled at the top of his lungs, "I won't let you insult her! She is a good person..."

"Screw you! That scourge woman killed numerous people already and you still dare to take her side?" The stocky man he was fighting against, punctuated his reproval with a slap.

But Zhuo Fan was stubborn as a mule. He was mocked, roughed up, shamed, yet his eyes never lost their will to fight.

"Humph, she's been living here long since you came barging in. Before then, some people die to god knows what, and you people start slander the lady. Can you even call yourself a man?"

"Hey, this kid is asking for it. Finish him off!"

"Yeah, letting him live will invite disaster upon us. He is just like that scourge woman, wanting to kill us all. But before he kills us, we'll just have to take him out."

"Kill, kill..." The crowd began chanting like madmen.

The scourge woman saw this unfold with a shiver as anger started to well up in her eyes.

"Stop!"

A crisp shout rang in their ears, even over the thunderous roars of the mob. They turned in shock then shivered in fear, staggering away.

"It's the scourge woman! Watch out everyone! Or she'll infect you if she gets too close!"

In an instant, the people around started to run off. Even that Bone Tempering expert dismounted Zhuo Fan's prone figure and fled in fear.

The scourge woman walked straight to Zhuo Fan and helped him stand. She only eyed the crowd around them then brought him back to the plagued house.

The mob sighed in relief and wiped their sweat as they watched them go.

"Split the money!"

A sudden shout echoed. The people gathered around again and at the center, was a pile of glittering spirit stones.

The dazzling show of light struck the core of everyone.

"Damn, this must be more than ten thousand! Wasn't that kid from a third rate clan? How did he get so rich?"

"Hey, stop poking your nose in others' business! Who cares if he wants you to beat him up as long as you get paid? This must be around fifty thousand spirit stones. That young master said each can take a thousand, not a stone more!"

"He-he-he, I got it. That fellow wants that scourge woman so he wanted us to make a play. He is playing with fire. Who in the hell would go after a woman plagued with disease?"

Bam!

But his words were welcomed with a flurry of blows. The man turned in shock at the angry stocky man.

"He told you to not speak of this once you get your cut. If just one of you has loose tongues, all of us will end up dead!"

"Uh, what's so scary about a rich kid? Even if he might be from a second rate clan..."

The first guy was still trying to justify himself but the stocky man's slap left him traveling through the air, "Bastard, I told you to shut up. You can't even begin to imagine what that young lord will do to us if this gets found out!"

The stocky man's inflamed fists trembled with fear, recalling the scene of a man turning to ashes before him.

Zhuo Fan let only him witness the almighty power of fear. The others were oblivious to his devious and poisonous acts. Nonetheless, since this stocky man was the strongest among them, if he was scared, he would share the fear and keep his words in mind.

In a flash, they clamped their mouths and left after taking their share of spirit stones...

On the other side, the scourge woman took Zhuo Fan to the broken-down house. A small bottle appeared in her hand after seeing his bruised up and bleeding body, she order in a rather cold voice, "Eat it!"

Zhuo Fan knew it was a healing pill, but he turned his head away.

How could those useless Bone Tempering men even dent his perfect 5th-grade demonic treasure body? His wounds were self-inflicted to stir pity in the scourge woman's heart.

And if he just ate the pill, the woman would just take off. So he put up a tough front, like a spoiled brat.

The woman, however, was perplexed, "What, scared there's poison?"

"I am not afraid of staying with you. Do you think I'm afraid of you poisoning a pill?" Zhuo Fan huffed, "Didn't you tell me to get lost? Why did you save me then?"

The scourge woman eyed him deeply, "Then, why did you still try to defend me before those people? Weren't you afraid of being beaten to death? If I had arrived just one second later, you'd have died."

Zhuo Fan laughed inside. He knew that after a full night spent on absorbing the moon's yin, the following day would be used on absorbing the sun's yang to warm her meridians. If not, even the strongest of experts could not withstand the corrosive yin energy raining havoc through their body.

When he did his rounds around the area, he knew the spot she picked for absorbing yang. It was all a matter of staging a good show with his fellow neighbors. Not even mild-tempered people could keep away from the ruckus once their meditation was interrupted.

In layman's terms, it all went according to Zhuo Fan's foolproof plan to breach the scourge woman's psychological barriers and accept him with all her heart.

Zhuo Fan turned his head and stared right in her eyes until her own eyes faltered away. He spoke with emotion, "My mother said, eyes are a window to one's soul. There's no way a person with such beautiful eyes possess an evil heart. And, you also let me stay, you definitely have a good heart. If those people slander you for murder, how could I stand by and not defend your name?"

Zhuo Fan's open bootlicking was filled with childish naivety, lacking the feeling of deception an adult would have. If a lady heard it, she wouldn't loathe this childish behavior, on the contrary, they would like it even more.

That's the secret to capturing a woman's heart, not using flowery and sweet words, but to stir her motherly side.

This epiphany came to him after talking with Dong Tianba. He used to feel Dong Tianba and Song Yu were simply mighty silk pants. Though their chasing skills were vile and repulsive, it still achieved results.

Therefore, he was using the same methods. [It's true, the world is filled with wondrous trades. Everyone's a master in something!]

The effect was obvious, the scourge woman's cheeks tinted red and snapped, "Silver-tongued!"

But the eyes, though, now showed acceptance!

[Thanks, brother Dong, thank you for teaching me the way of chasing!]

Zhuo Fan secretly sighed, but his face was still etched with that childlike innocence as he laughed, "Sister, I know you for so long yet I haven't caught your name!"

"How is that long? We only saw each other three times!" Rolling her eyes, the scourge woman mumbled, "You... call me sister Chuchu."

"Yes, sister Chuchu!"

Zhuo Fan put on a puppy-eyed face that made even him nauseous, but his hands were tied. Women ate them like candy.

"Now take the pill." Chuchu extended the bottle, but Zhuo Fan smiled and opened his mouth, "Sister Chuchu, feed me!"

Sighing, Chuchu shook her head helpless, glared, but she still extended him a pill with her dainty hand.

Zhuo Fan saw her hand approaching and grabbed her wrist suddenly, pouring in his Yuan Qi...

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Chapter 99, Amazing Alchemy Skill

His Yuan Qi didn't travel far as a sudden chill, caused by the yin power, broke his contact, and a thin layer of ice crystals formed on his hand.

Zhuo Fan was in shock.

This didn't come as a result of the terrible chill, since it belonged to the yin power of the moon. What startled him so was the poison the scourge woman was housing in her body.

There were seven types of poison twisted inside, and each one of them was enough to leave a person dead as a doornail. As opposed to miraculous medicines, this was a certain death poison. With how the seven poison were twisted among each other, even a Radiant Stage expert would be in endless torment before dying.

He didn't know anyone so vile and malicious that would administer such poison, but one thing he did know, the poison was far too strong to be suppressed by the moon's yin power alone.

And there was one more thing Zhuo Fan found inside her body fighting off the seven poisons, a medicine; the Bodhi Jade Sap!

With his eyes wide, Zhuo Fan's heart was in exultation.

Bodhi Jade Sap was a miraculous medicine capable of reviving someone from an inch of death, a 7th, if not 8th-grade medicine. One drop was enough to save a mortally wounded person.

And this was what Zhuo Fan's aim all along!

Now, he was apathetic to the scourge woman's plight, only having eyes for the Bodhi Jade Sap to restore the Thunder Skylark egg.

All that was left was to figure out how to get it out of her. This miraculous treasure wasn't a common topic he could discuss with her, it breached one's lifeline.

"What are you doing?!"

Zhuo Fan's act was instantaneous and only now did she pull her dainty hand away and glared in fury.

His eyes darting around, Zhuo Fan put on a sappy face, rubbing his hands in worry, "Sister Chuchu, your hand is so cold, let me warm you up!"

"Don't play with me!"

Chuchu stared at him filled with doubt, "Say it, why did you search me with Yuan Qi?"

Zhuo Fan sighed, "I noticed sister Chuchu's unwell complexion and since my clan is an alchemist clan, I thought of helping you. I didn't expect sister to doubt me..."

Zhuo Fan now sported a face filled with injustice, and even sniffed to drive the point in. It had the obvious effect and Chuchu's heart softened and her eyes no longer glared.

"My injury isn't something a third rate clan can help with. But thank you."

"Who says that?"

Zhuo Fan raised his head, like an indignant child, "My Song clan from Nightrain City have been alchemists for generations. My dad is a 3rd-grade alchemist and passed his teachings onto me. If you don't believe it, come and see my skills!"

Zhuo Fan grabbed Chuchu's soft hand and went outside. Chuchu was so stunned she forgot to fight back.

No matter what she was thinking, she didn't seem to want to cut at this big boy's enthusiasm.

Zhuo Fan led Chuchu through some broken-down houses, to the fright of the new locals. Of course, most of them were in fear of the scourge woman while only one man felt dread from Zhuo Fan.

He was the stocky man who witnessed Zhuo Fan's vicious methods!

The pair arrived at the tavern where Dong Tianba stayed. In his rush before, he even left the Song carriage here. It contained the ingredients the Song clan readied for the meeting.

"Bro!"

He ran right into the Dong siblings. Dong Tianba was in glee while Dong Xiaowan gave a bashful nod, "Big brother Song!"

Yet, Dong Xiaowan felt something strange as she caught his hand holding Chuchu's wrist.

Dong Tianba noticed this also and felt awkward, "Bro, who is she?"

"Sister Chuchu, a new friend!" Zhuo Fan smiled.

At his words, Dong Tianba dragged him to the side with a raised eyebrow, "Wait to go, bro! You got one just as you arrived!"

"Ha-ha-ha, it's all thanks to brother Dong!"

Zhuo Fan's words came from his heart. You'd think a cultivation maniac like him would know how to get close to Chuchu if not for yesterday's long chat with this prodigal son?

Stealing a glance at Chuchu, Dong Tianba gave a lustful grin, "Bro, is she hot? I can't tell from her clothes. But she should be hiding something amazing."

"Uh, I'm not sure since I never saw her body!"

"What?" Dong Tianba cried out, "Not even her face? And you want to bed her?"

Zhuo Fan shrugged, "Don't be like that. I don't look at her like that anyway."

Zhuo Fan brushed passed him, letting him stand dumbstruck, his brows furrowed in deep confusion, [If a man isn't after a woman for her body, then is it for love? When did my dear bro change so much?]

"Brother Dong, where's my carriage?" Dong Tianba recovered only after he heard Zhuo Fan's yell. He replied, "In the back of the tavern. Come with me."

Dong Tianba led them out back and Zhuo Fan went right inside the carriage, beginning to take out all the glittering and odd ingredients.

He didn't look at all serious, instead, he was as pure as a child.

Chuchu found it normal, but the Dong siblings were startled. Where did the vicious and sinister Zhuo Fan of yesterday go?

Dong Tianba then realized, [It seems that love can make a man go crazy. Bro, you are caught in a love trap!]

Not minding the looks he got, Zhuo Fan met Chuchu's eyes and spoke with a boyish smile, "Sister Chuchu, watch closely!"

His hand now held a scarlet Yuan Qi flame, throwing dozens of ingredients inside. Yet it was amazing how the ingredients didn't mix.

"What precise control!" Dong Tianba exclaimed.

A 3rd-grade alchemist could, at best, handle nine ingredients at once. But Zhuo Fan made light work of dozens. His skill went beyond the 4th grade, perhaps even 5th.

th-grade alchemists were seen only in second rate clans, 5th grade in first rate clans. As for those above, they were talents raised in the seven houses.

Dong Tianba just couldn't believe it. When he met Song Yu again in this city, he discovered that not only did his power soared, but even his alchemy ability jumped.

[If he had one iota of skill he shows today at the start, the Clan Head wouldn't have refused him.] Dong Xiaowan was watching him with an even more amazed expression.

Chuchu nodded faintly, her eyes evoking praise. His skill at his age made Zhuo Fan a diamond in the rough!

But Zhuo Fan wasn't going for just praise, he wanted shock. Only shock was enough to assure Chuchu of his alchemy ability and let him have the Bodhi Jade Sap.

[Then, he-he-he...]

Zhuo Fan's eyes narrowed and gripped the scarlet flame containing the ingredients, putting it out. Only a weak trail of smoke was left behind.

"What are you doing?!"

Dong Tianba cried, "I thought this guy improved but why does he suddenly lack common sense? If you forge all the ingredients together and put out the flame, you'll ruin them."

Chuchu shook her head with a light smile. [He is still a child. How can you refine with an unsteady heart?]

Then, among the pitying gazes, Zhuo Fan smirked mysteriously, "As an alchemist, how can I not know when my pill is ruined? I don't need you to remind me!"

With a smug smile, Zhuo Fan opened his hand.

A piercing red light flashed and left behind a round red and glossy pill.

"H-how is this possible?"

Dong Tianba was beyond shocked, not daring to even believe this was real. It went against all alchemical common sense.

From the gloss and the fragrance, it denoted it as a 2nd-grade pill, but of top quality. It had a far greater value than any pill of the same grade.

An apt description would be, a pill that jumped grades!

Chuchu narrowed her eyes in shock. This was her first time witnessing such a skill.

Zhuo Fan snickered inside. This refining method was called Universe Palm, taken from the Nine Serenities Secret Records. It preserved the ingredients' effects and even boosted the pill to top quality.

It was no wonder those in the mortal domain were oblivious to it since not even the Sacred Domain was aware of its existence.

How could mortals even begin to understand the secret methods of the ancients? It was all for the sake of getting that Bodhi Jade Sap, or Zhuo Fan wouldn't have revealed such a technique.

To common folk, this secret art meant nothing, but to alchemists, they would rave over it. He'd be inviting disaster if they knew of it.

But these potential issues were for him to deal with in the future. All that mattered now was gaining Chuchu's trust.

Zhuo Fan grinned as he brought the glossy red pill before Chuchu, "Sister Chuchu, I felt your hand freezing, so this Yang Pill is for you."

Chuchu raised her eyebrow, but mocked instead, "I appreciate your kindness, but Yang Pill is a 2nd-grade pill. It has no effect on me!"

"How can you be certain if you haven't tried it yet?"

Zhuo Fan's cryptic smile left Chuchu in doubt, but she also knew this pill wasn't ordinary thanks to the special method he employed in refining it. She chose to take it after some muttering.

Chuchu suddenly felt her body shivering, her eyes filled with shock. She had an expression that no one could decipher...

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Chapter 100, Rainbow Cloud Palm

"How is this possible?" Chuchu exclaimed.

That pill was unlike any she had taken. It dissolved in an instant into a miniature sun and caused her to let out a scorching breath.

The strong pill effect traveled to every corner of her body, warming it up. When the effect faded, a comfortable feeling still lingered while also dispelling most of the yin power damaging her meridians she absorbed last night.

Chuchu was incredulous such an astonishing pill existed in this world.

Her Yuan Qi was of yin attribute, and normal yang attribute pills would be rendered useless. As such, a mere 2nd grade Yang Pill should have already been offset by her body before it could help dispel the moon's yin power inside her.

But Zhuo Fan's pill was burning like the sun, yet it was gentle, nurturing the recovery of her meridians.

The crux of it all was that her Yuan Qi didn't fight against it, allowing her to capitalize on the pill's entire effect.

This went beyond even her wildest dreams!

A pair of sparkling eyes stared at Zhuo Fan's.

Zhuo Fan was gleeful inside as he smiled, "How is it, sister Chuchu? My pill is different from the rest."

Chuchu nodded unconsciously as she praised, "You are so young yet using such an enigmatic refining skill. In a few years, the entire empire will know your name."

[He-he-he, it has already, though you don't know it yet!]

Zhuo Fan cursed inside, but his face still evoked the same boyish smile, "Then, sister Chuchu, if there's anything hurting your body, I will make it sure that it stops."

Chuchu jerked, Zhuo Fan's words struck a chord in her. She knew her own body all too well and needed a great alchemist to remove the poison. However...

Chuchu muttered to herself. Zhuo Fan was always watching her, his heart stretched taut. If his mind could be heard it would be like, [What's the hold-up?]

[Hurry up and fork that damn Bodhi Jade Sap over! If you don't have it, then point me in the right direction at least!]

Then, a laugher suddenly resounded, "Ha-ha-ha, took you long enough. I've been waiting here for a whole day, brat."

Two figures landed from the sky.

One was dressed in red, the beautiful figure of the girl Zhuo Fan humiliated yesterday, Xiao Dandan. The other was a man, a handsome youth in green and with an eerie green flicker in his eye.

Dong Tianba and his sister jumped in shock. Chuchu was also affected, staring at the two with a complicated gaze. While Zhuo Fan's expression was grave, his eyes glinting dangerously.

[Son of a bitch! I almost had it! Your meddling warrants death!]

Zhuo Fan was itching to snap these two's necks, but noticing Chuchu, [Forget it, I'll keep playing the naive child.]

"He-he-he, punk, I heard you were quite strong..."

"Sister Chuchu, they're picking on me. Beat them up!"

While the smug green youth was pointing at him, Zhuo Fan pulled on Chuchu's clothes. He was striking an uncanny resemblance to a younger brother bullied by others and asking his boss for help.

This caused a widespread shock to all that knew of yesterday's affair. The green youth's face twitched, watching Xiao Dandan in skepticism, "Miss Dandan, is he the one who was hard on you yesterday? Is he the same insufferably arrogant punk? Why is it he has not one bone in his back?"

Xiao Dandan felt dizzy, [He wasn't like this before! he was even bossy with my senior aunt. Is he bipolar?]

"Uh, young master Yan, he... is. But... he wasn't like this yesterday."

"Humph, whatever. Since he is the one, I will give him a reckoning for what happened to you." Snorting, he said to Zhuo Fan, "I don't care if you're a spineless coward or a retard. Since you offended people from the seven houses, you deserve death. With how skilled and heavy-handed you were when dealing with Lin Tianyu, you are worthy of my personal involvement!"

"You beat Lin Tianyu? Weren't you weaker than even a third rate clan's disciple?"

Zhuo Fan's eyes darted everywhere, then gave an embarrassed smile, "Uh, if I say he tripped and hurt himself, would you believe me?"

Everyone almost lost balance and collapsed.

[Dude, can't you come up with a more realistic lie?]

Chuchu smiled out of anger, "Song Yu, if you admit you lied to me from the start, I can still forgive you. But you are clearly taking me for a fool."

Chuchu brushed her sleeve and vanished, leaving only her angry voice in his ear, "Humph, since you court it, you deal with it!"

"Sister Chuchu, let me explain..." Zhuo Fan trailed but she was gone.

When Zhuo Fan turned around, his eyes were cold and deadly. His previous cute and adorable look was gone, replaced with murderous desire.

"You bastard, couldn't you wait a minute more? You ruined my plan!"

Zhuo Fan's tone carried a vicious desire for revenge, making Xiao Dandan shiver as she hid behind the green youth. Even the youth held a serious expression.

From being in contact with so many people from the seven houses, it was easy to figure out a man's nature from a single glance. But Zhuo Fan's naked killing intent made his judgment moot. Such savagery only came from the kind of beast.

"Humph, from how tough you act, it is no wonder that you dealt a heavy blow to Lin Tianyu!" The green youth mocked, "Too bad you met me, Pill King Hall, Vicious Pill King, Yan Song's head disciple, Yan Fu! I am unlike that trash from Merry Woods who indulges in lust. I am the Vicious Pill King's successor!"

Zhuo Fan frowned. Vicious Pill King was the title of the best alchemist in Pill King Hall.

But the first in Pill King Hall wasn't like the first in any other clans.

To some clans, their number one alchemist title was gained by being the best in alchemy. But in Pill King Hall, it not only represented alchemy but also concocting poison unlike any other.

From this his title, Vicious Pill King. It could be said that he was the mightest killer and savior in the world. With life and death in his hands, he became known as a true Pill King!

[In other words, this kid's good at poisons. Humph!]

Zhuo Fan mocked inside. Poison might inconvenience the rest, but to him it had no effect.

[See how I use my Demon Transformation Art and wring your cultivation dry!]

With a crack of lightning, Zhuo Fan appeared before Yan Fu.

The shock Yan Fu felt was palpable, not expecting the 1st layer of Bone Tempering Stage cultivator to employ such speed. It was no wonder that Merry Woods' disciple who despite his focus on speed lost so badly.

Yet before he could react, Zhuo Fan kicked him in the stomach.

Spewing blood, Yan Fu flew out, making a human-shaped hole in the wall around the tavern and bounced fifty meters in the street.

Everyone was slack jawed.

To be honest, if not for Zhuo Fan's irritated state, he would've toned it down.

Casting a side glance at Xiao Dandan, she was scared out of her wits. Zhuo Fan sneered, "No matter who you call, they'll all end the same. Do you women from Drifting Flowers Edifice can only rely on men? Ha-ha-ha..."

Zhuo Fan walked away and left her crying, feeling wronged.

Zhuo Fan's contempt and harsh tone cut deep into her. It was no longer humiliation, but despise!

Going through the broken wall, Zhuo Fan walked towards Yan Fu, who was getting up. The tavern's customers and the bystanders hid when they saw it was a fight involving the seven houses.

"He-he-he, quite fast, the fastest beneath Profound Heaven Stage I reckon." Yan Fu sneered as he wiped the blood from his mouth.

Zhuo Fan snickered, "Well this is a first, seeing one happy to be beaten."

"Humph, I am happy, but of certain victory."

"Victory?" Zhuo Fan disdained, "I know Pill King Hall can make pills as well as poisons. But you think you can beat me with poisons?"

"Ha-ha-ha, debased punk, you know nothing of the world!"

Yan Fu's eyes flashed as he laughed, "My master is Vicious Pill King, revered by all. If not for his poisons, why do you think the seven houses fear him?"

Yan Fu spread his arms.

A mist flew from his palms that gradually changed its color, soon letting out three different types of light.

Red, yellow, and green interweaved.

Zhuo Fan scratched his nose, feeling slightly numb.

[Crud, this punk's poison skills are good to the point that even I have been affected.] He was cursing inside, however, Zhuo Fan had a calm expression on the outside.

"He-he-he, have a taste of Pill King Hall's legacy profound ranked martial art, Rainbow Cloud Palm!"

Silavin: 14 Chapters a week again. This will be the last dump for a long time. We will reach/surpass manga this week!

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Chapter 101, Lunatic

Translator: StarReader

Editor: p4553r

With his final words, the palms gushed out a tri-colored mist. In a mere blink, it rotated around him like a tornado, obscuring his form.

Zhuo Fan gave a cold laugh inside.

[Those from Pill King Hall are focused on practicing poison and, just like Merry Woods, who focus on speed, their bodies aren't tempered at all.]

Their bodies were weak.

And to cover it up, he hid in the mist, at a safe distance.

[Too bad your trick won't work on me.]

His eyes flashed and Zhuo Fan charged, planning on wringing the punk's neck in one move. But he stopped soon after, as he looked at the mist. He realized something.

[Damn, it's a trap!]

[He came here to exact revenge for Xiao Dandan, but in fact, he's been egged on to come here and probe me. If not, Drifting Flowers Edifice's men would've come to settle their disciple's matter. Why would they let this kid steal the limelight?]

Zhuo Fan breathed in and his eyes returned to the usually calm and calculative look.

[Iris Overseer is unclear on who I am and tricked this kid into testing me. I can assume there are a few Profound Heaven experts already watching.]

[Humph, not a bad plan!]

Zhuo Fan laughed coldly inside as he withdrew, no longer having the desire to kill in his eyes.

Under these circumstances, he must not win no matter what!

"Ha-ha-ha, punk, weren't you cocky of your speed? Come on then!" Yan Fu's egotistical voice came from inside the mist.

Zhuo Fan tapped his chin with a faint smile, "Ha-ha-ha, think I'm stupid? You come out if you dare. I don't believe you'll stay there for a lifetime. When you're out of Yuan Qi, I will put you in your place!"

"Humph, you're sadly mistaken if you think the Rainbow Cloud Palm is only used for defense! I will let you experience the perfect martial art!"

Whoosh!

Three tendrils of mist moved from the tornado, like hands, going after Zhuo Fan, their speed no less than his.

Zhuo Fan ducked and dodged through the gaps in the attacks. But the tendrils suddenly turned and came from his back.

"Ha-ha-ha, now you see, punk? Pill King Hall's Rainbow Cloud Palm isn't just for defense. No matter what you do, you will still die!"

Yan Fu was cackling smugly while Zhuo Fan was dodging with contempt.

Poison users were strong and weak at the same time. Before the poison was dispelled, the user would be invincible. But after, he was the weakest person ever.

He'd be even weaker than a cultivator at the same stage!

Among the ten ancient emperors, not one relied on poison as their main path. The Pill King Hall was so stuck-up because of this technique because there hadn't been anyone who could counter it.

[Humph, once I deal with your palm technique, the Pill King Hall will be kicked out of the seven houses. See how you'll cry then. As for now, humph... I'll endure!]

Zhuo Fan gnashed his teeth.

But his silence only worked to bolster Yan Fu's haughty attitude, thinking he was scared, "Punk, don't think you can mess with Seven Noble Houses just because you're a bit stronger than average. You might not care about the rest of them but, let me tell you, when provoking Pill King Hall, all that you'll receive is death!"

[The hell, when did I go and do that? Didn't you pick on me on purpose?]

Gasping, Zhuo Fan clenched his fists.

[This punk is too damn patronizing. I might fake defeat, but not before I let him have a small taste!]

At this thought, Zhuo Fan stopped his running, as if tired. Yan Fu was thrilled, sending the red, yellow, and green tendrils of poisonous mist right for him.

But Zhuo Fan's squinted and with a loud bang, he charged through the three tendrils of poison and into the mist like an artillery shell.

Yan Fu could foresee what Zhuo Fan was planning to do and became startled. He was preparing to move out of the way. But he was late to react and Zhuo Fan was already before him, his hand clutching at his neck.

"Son of a bitch, if poison is so great! Then, you and I will die together then!"

Poison seeped into his body and Zhuo Fan's face alternated between red, yellow and green. His mouth and nose were bleeding constantly, but he couldn't care less, kicking Yan Fu in the chest!

Bones cracked with a crisp sound and Yan Fu spat blood. His eyes were filled with fright.

He couldn't believe there was a man who didn't fear poison and charge in with such determination.

Most people would've hesitated in face of a poison mist. But who knew Zhuo Fan to be the exception? His method was that of staunch determination, choosing death for both of them. Was Yan Fu about to meet his end?

"Lunatic, you're truly insane!"

Yan Fu was going hysterical watching dark blood flow freely from Zhuo Fan's face.

Grinning, Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with a crazed look, "He-he-he, I am crazy! Since I'm going to die, I'm going to take you down first and avenge myself!"

Zhuo Fan kicked Yan Fu's chest three more times, breaking all his ribs. Yan Fu was itching to cry his heart out from all the pain.

But this was just the start.

Before he could make a sound, Zhuo Fan grabbed his skull and slapped him a dozen or so times.

The sharp sounds echoed on the street as Yan Fu's teeth were flung with each slap. His eyes were wet but had no energy to even cry. The immense pain stabbed into his heart and all he could do was whimper.

Xiao Dandan and the Dong siblings who came out of the tavern stared in shock. Xiao Dandan even covered her mouth, unable to believe what she saw.

In reality, Yan Fu's injuries were superficial, hardly enough to kill him, while Zhuo Fan had poison coursing through him and his life was seeping fast out of his body. It wouldn't be long before he'd succumb to it and die.

However, from the two's interaction, it looked more like Zhuo Fan was the winner and was dealing heavy killing blows, while Yan Fu was akin to a loser kowtowing for forgiveness.

[This can't be!]

Xiao Dandan watched with mixed feelings as Zhuo Fan was nearing ever closer to death yet stronger than ever.

He was clearly dying yet in his final moments, he was the strongest in the world. She never saw a man like this, not once.

Her heart was suddenly seized by regret, actually hoping Zhuo Fan would live on.

Yet, she was clear that once poisoned by Pill King Hall, no one could survive, the rest of the seven houses included. This was the terror instilled by the Pill King Hall!

"He-he-he, didn't you say your Pill King Hall's martial arts are perfect? Didn't you want to kill me? Humph, we will both go down today, and all that's left is to see who is going to have a quicker death!"

Zhuo Fan yanked Yan Fu by the hair, his body trembling from the poison reaching his organs. He didn't have much time. Yet his smile was as crazed as before, slamming Yan Fu into the ground.

Even if Yan Fu survived this ordeal, it would leave him with permanent scarring!

"Stop!"

A gale knocked Zhuo Fan flying as a green-robed elderly drifted to Yan Fu. He gave him a pill, checked his wounds then sighed.

His poisonous eyes then snapped to Zhuo Fan, glinting with murderous intent.

A thousand meters out, on a tall building, stood two figures. One was middle-aged with a split mustache, the other was a red-haired elderly. The two watched Zhuo Fan with a sigh.

"They say that some are so stubborn they can't see they're going to die! This kid's desperate and suicidal act is Pill King Hall's bane! If the rest of the houses did the same, would Vicious Pill King dare run rampant again?" 5th elder laughed in lament, "This kid's character is something I like."

Nodding, Lin Zitian said, "I know now why Tianyu lost. It would've been a miracle if he won when meeting such a lunatic, one that is so strong too. When meeting an unbeatable opponent, one must not make an enemy out of him or the result would be devastating. Most people's first thought is to run to save their lives, and by the time they react, it would be too late. This is why Pill King Hall is still held in fear."

th elder nodded and flew away, leaving his words behind, "It's a pity. With this man's strong body, under my guidance, his future would've been bright! With Pill King Hall's poison in him, it is ruined..."

"5th elder." Lin Zitian shouted from behind, "Is he not... Zhuo Fan?"

Startled, 5th elder turned to look at him and shook his head, "Zhuo Fan is as treacherous as a fox, cunning as a wolf, dangerous as a snake, and savage like a tiger! Not only does this kid not look like him, he is all brawn and no brain. Even if they both do not fear death, they are totally different!

"Lin Zitian, listen well! Zhuo Fan is a hundred times more dreadful!" His eyes shivering, 5th elder vanished.

Lin Zitian was left with a hard expression.

Hell Valley's 5th elder was the pillar of Hell Valley, the strongest. His words must be real if even he was afraid of the kid...

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Chapter 102, Bodhi Jade Sap

"Big brother Song!" Dong Xiaowan cried out as she witnessed Zhuo Fan collapsing. She wanted to go to him but Dong Tianba pulled her hand.

Dong Tianba was watching the elder in green with a serious face. Zhuo Fan reduced Yan Fu to such a state and helping him would only incur the elder's wrath.

It may not be righteous, but as long as you'd escape an encounter with the seven houses alive, everything else was just details.

"Hey, wench, take care of my disciple!"

Vicious Pill King turned to Xiao Dandan, his eyes flashing green. She shivered from fear as she pointed at herself, "Y-you mean me?"

"Cut the crap. My disciple ended up like this for your sake. Who else should be looking after him if not you?" Yan Song spoke in an irreproachable manner.

Xiao Dandan was forced to obey despite her wishes.

Yan Fu's mangled body stirred endless disgust in her. [Who told him to stick his head out for me? Not me! He dragged me here to mess with Song Yu and now that he got hurt, I have to look after him?]

Picking up on her loathing, Yan Song spoke in a threatening tone, "Wench, my disciple got hurt for your sake and you're just going to ignore him?"

Shivering, Xiao Dandan shook her head again and again, "Uh, no, I wouldn't dare!"

"Humph, you'd better. My disciple took a liking to you so you better not let him down or I will make you beg for the sweet release of death!"

Snorting, Yan Song left his precious disciple in Xiao Dandan's care then walked to Zhuo Fan. The latter was on the ground, seemingly having stopped breathing, but his mind was hard at work paying attention to all that was happening.

Also, he wasn't as poisoned as he had led on.

He just canceled out Yan Fu's three poisons with the use of Demon Transformation Art and put on this act to dupe the crowd.

Feeling Yan Song's naked killing intent with every step, Zhuo Fan's fist tightened.

[I'm already poisoned to death and a senior like you still wants to finish the job?]

If push came to shove, his only choice was to expose his real identity.

Despite having a 5th-grade demonic treasure body, an all-out strike from a Profound Heaven expert would leave him with a heavy wound. At the very least, his inner organs would be damaged.

Zhuo Fan was ready to react at a moment's notice and strike down the insufferable Vicious Pill King!

Suddenly...

Lighting crackled along his Thunder Ring left him startled, [That guy can't be here, right?]

Yet familiar laughter echoed as a person flashed a hundred meters from Zhuo Fan, "Ha-ha-ha, and here I thought the magnificent and grand Vicious Pill King was amazing, while instead, he delights in picking on the weak!"

It was none other than Sword Marquise Abode's Xie Tianyang, the one who went through life and death alongside Zhuo Fan. Next to him was the same elder from before, 8th elder Jian Suifeng!

[Well damn, you picked the perfect timing to show up!]

Zhuo Fan was in glee, sneaking the Thunder Ring into another storage ring while no one was looking. The crackling of lighting vanished but Xie Tianyang didn't care, as he continued to stare at Yan Song with arrogance.

"Twerp, did you come to butt into my affairs?"

Yan Song snapped his eyes to him, exploding in killing intent. Jian Suifeng rested his hand on Xie Tianyang's shoulder, "Tianyang, this doesn't concern us."

"8th elder, Drifting Flowers City isn't Pill King Hall's turf, why should we be scared of him?" Xie Tianyang grinned, sticking out his chin.

Jian Suifeng shook his head. Ever since the battle of Blue Expanse City between You Guiqi and Zhuo Fan, Xie Tianyang had become a busybody. He just couldn't stand by and watch injustice playing before him.

This quirk wasn't that bad, but it didn't do any good either.

The elder didn't stop him in normal cases. But right now, he had gone too far. To dare to butt in the seven houses' affairs, this had left the Sword Marquise Abode's elders in a panic. He could not fathom the consequences.

That Zhuo Fan was all by his lonesome self, messing with whoever that crossed him as he wished. But Tianyang represented Sword Marquise Abode. Just what did the elders teach him?

Furthermore, did he have to go against the Vicious Pill King out of all of them?

Jian Suifeng gave a wistful smile as he apologized in Xie Tianyang's stead, "Ha-ha-ha, elder Yan Song, I am Sword Marquise Abode's 8th elder, Jian Suifeng. Please don't mind the words of an ignorant youth!"

"No wonder he dares acts so presumptuous. He's from Sword Marquise Abode!"

Yan Song's eyes drifted over the two then shook his head at the breathless Zhuo Fan, "Whatever, I'll let Sword Marquise Abode have this one and won't punish this punk myself. He inhaled my disciple's poison anyway and won't have long to live."

Yan Song emphasized the word disciple, pointing out the fact his disciple was the one that would kill this kid. It was a message to them, 'It has nothing to do with me. I'm not picking on the weak, so don't you freakin' start spreading false rumors and ruining my name, Sword Marquise Abode!'

Jian Suifeng was clear on his hidden meaning and nodded, "Ha-ha-ha, elder Yan Song has a fine disciple. How could any common person be his match? This kid dared to mess with him so death is what he deserves! "

Yan Fu nodded in satisfaction, [At least you're tactful.] He then flashed before Xiao Dandan and took her and his disciple away.

His disciple won, but it was a wretched win.

If he lingered any more, the Sword Marquise Abode might figure out his disciple killed his opponent with poison while getting beaten like a punching bag. He'd have no face left then!

There weren't many who knew this, to begin with, only Drifting Flowers Tower, Merry Woods and Hell Valley, but the fewer that did, the better – this was all to avoid making a disgrace of himself.

When the old man left, Jian Suifeng took a deep breath. Though Jian Suifeng who was filled with hatred gnashed his teeth while looking at Zhuo Fan slowly dying, "Bastard, he flaunts his power at every chance and disgraces all the seven houses!"

"Alright already. Do you think you're that monster, Zhuo Fan? That you can do anything you want?"

After cuffing Xie Tianyang over the head, Jian Suifeng shook his head, "Tianyang, do you have any idea how dangerous that was? Unlike You Guiqi who likes to play games and scheme instead of acting on impulses, Vicious Pill King would strike at anything that earns his displeasure with impunity, even against the other houses, no one can do anything to stop him!"

Xie Tianyang bit his lip and sighed powerlessly.

"You must be the Sword Marquise Abode's young master!"

Xie Tianyang turned to see Dong Xiaowan kneeling at his feet, "Brother Song Yu has been poisoned by Pill King Hall, please save him!"

Xie Tianyang eyes Zhuo Fan then Jian Suifeng, "8th elder, can we save him?"

"Ha! You think there's anyone in this world that can cure Pill King Hall's poison? If there was, it wouldn't have grown into such a fearful figure." Jian Suifeng shook his head, "Tianyang, don't mess with other people's problems!"

Xie Tianyang watched Dong Xiaowan hopeless, "Forgive me, miss, I cannot help him." And left with Jian Suifeng.

Dong Xiaowan cried as she turned to her brother. Dong Tianba sighed, "At the end of it all, dear little brother Song met his doom because of us. We will return his body to Nightrain City and bury him there. The Song clan will be then declared our kin."

Dong Xiaowan sniffed and nodded.

"Wait!" A sudden voice stopped them.

Chuchu appeared, "He's been poisoned by Rainbow Cloud Palm. If you touch him you will also suffer!"

What?

The two backed off a few steps. Dong Xiaowan watched Chuchu mournful, "What can we do? We can't just leave big brother Song's body here."

"Leave him to me. I will heal him!"

Chuchu bound Zhuo Fan in a ribbon and vanished, leaving the Dong siblings in shock.

The Sword Marquise Abode of the Seven Noble Houses couldn't do anything. Yet, a hick woman could?

The two couldn't make heads or tails of it, but Zhuo Fan was the most in shock.

He observed the three poisons in his body combining and ever-changing, amplifying its toxicity. Was there any other method that could remove it besides the Demon Transformation Art?

[Maybe...] His guess got him in high spirits.

Fifteen minutes later, in the slums, Chuchu laid Zhuo Fan on the earthen bed and her hand flashed with a bottle.

The instant she uncorked it, the scent wafted everywhere in the room.

Zhuo Fan was startled yet despite his eyes being close, they still trembled. This was what he was after from the start, the heavenly treasure, Bodhi Jade Sap.

A green drop landed on Zhuo Fan's lip, sliding in his mouth.

In that instant, Zhuo Fan felt a boundless vitality soaring ever higher in his body, wrapping every inch of his body. He was so happy, but the sorrow in his heart dwarfed it.

[Sister, it would've been better if you dripped it on my egg...]

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Chapter 103, Incredible

A green light spread throughout his body, into every damaged fiber left behind by the poison. In six hours, his face no longer looked ill.

Zhuo Fan felt the medicine did its job and faked a faint breath, as though he had just recovered. He was muttering all the while to make his weakened state believable.

Chuchu nodded slightly and helped Zhuo Fan to sit on the heated bed. She took a seat behind him, releasing a silver glow from her hands as she rested them on his back.

Shivering from the sharp cold, Zhuo Fan sensed a frigid yin seeping into his body and flowing through his meridians to clear any leftover poison.

His body had little poison to begin with, and the poisoning he showed on the surface was already cleared up thanks to the Bodhi Jade Sap.

If this process continued, the cat would be out of the bag. No one would fear Pill King Hall if their poison was so easily removed.

Furthermore, with how knowledgeable Chuchu seemed regarding Pill King Hall's poison, if a drop of Bodhi Jade Sap was enough to cure him, she wouldn't have followed through with the healing.

Zhuo Fan was frowning at this point. [No, I cannot let that happen. I can't have her realize the truth or I'll be exposed!]

So Zhuo Fan used the Demon Transformation Art to remove the yin energy. Chuchu was startled, thinking the poison countered her efforts so she added more strength.

Zhuo Fan tweaked his cultivation method to match her rate of pushing Yuan Qi into his body until, at some point, Chuchu sensed her Yuan Qi moved uninhibited through his body.

However, a light scowl adorned her face, "I cannot believe the Pill King Hall's poison has reached such heights. The poison from a mere youth made me expend so much energy to dispel it!"

Zhuo Fan secretly laughed, creaking his eyelids open and putting on the weak and sick act.

"Where am I?"

Zhuo Fan turned his head around, puzzled. But he cried in joy at the sight of Chuchu, "Sister Chuchu, you're finally back. I thought you're angry with me and would never talk to me again!"

Chuchu was slightly moved.

It was unimaginable for this boy to be so happy about seeing her, instead of being relieved he was still alive. This was clear proof he placed her far higher in his heart than his own wellbeing.

Feeling warm inside, Chuchu raised an eyebrow as she smiled, "Of course I'm angry! You, a body cultivator, trashed Yan Fu to such a state, and you still dare fake weakness before me? Speak, what is your aim?"

"He-he-he, I don't have one. Just that when I saw you for the first time, you showed such a fierce attitude towards me. But I know you are a good person, taking me in despite your troubles. That is why I want to get close to you, understand you and become your friend!"

Chuchu gave him a long look and a smile slipped on her face, "Humph, yeah right, who'd believe you? I saw your fight with Yan Fu. You were so vicious in your attacks, using filthy language too. It was the opposite of what a refined young master would do when looking for consolation!"

Zhuo Fan darted his eyes left and right as he sighed in his heart.

[Chuchu is wise to figure out a man's true nature after just one battle. What she said is true. Why would a ruthless demonic cultivator act all kind if not for his self-interest in growing stronger?]

He always felt that only the week would rely on factions, while the strong stood alone. It was the same for spiritual beasts. Packs existed only of low level spiritual beasts while 5th and 6th level beasts were solitary.

Because once you had strength, you did not need one to look for shelter.

But how was he supposed to answer Chuchu?

Mulling in his heart for a while, Zhuo Fan noticed Chuchu's stare on him. It was then an inspiration struck and he secretly smiled, [Brother Dong, thanks again for your girl chasing skills.]

"Ha-ha-ha, sister Chuchu, you really want me to say it?" With silly laughter, Zhuo Fan scratched his head shyly.

Chuchu's heart was growing in suspicion. Her eyes became piercing, "Tell me. Is your aim in getting close to me something unspeakable?"

"Uh, it's not that important, just that... I like you." Zhuo Fan scratched his nose, blushing, "Sister Chuchu, you're right, I'm not that forward when making friends with anyone... except beauties!"

Zhuo Fan's bottomless eyes stared at Chuchu with emotion. She was so stunned that a rosy tint spread on her cheeks.

"Y-you don't even know how I look, so why do you know I'm beautiful?" Chuchu was starting to feel nervous as she stammered.

Zhuo Fan secretly relaxed, [The initiative is back in my field.]

[Thanks, brother Dong! Thank you for your skirt-chasing experience!]

Zhuo Fan was happy inside, but his face was giddy, "Sister Chuchu, I already told you, your eyes are mesmerizing. The moment I laid eyes on them, I knew you were beautiful!"

"Sophistry! Eyes have nothing to do with how one looks!" Chuchu turned her head, afraid of meeting Zhuo Fan's gaze.

Zhuo Fan let out a short laugh and pressed his advantage, "Who said that? Mother said, the prettier the eyes, the beautiful the woman!"

"Your mother is speaking nonsense!"

"Really? Then let's see! "

Zhuo Fan reached for Chuchu's cloth covering her face. She was startled for a moment before fleeing scared, "Don't, I am hideous. I don't want to scare you. If you try that again, I will be angry!"

Chuchu turned into the scared rabbit hunted by the fierce tiger, running to a corner in the room and blushing in panic. As for her threat, it held no power. In fact, it was more dignified than her usual cold and unfeeling manner.

Zhuo Fan was stunned, "Sister, I won't hit you. What are you so afraid of?"

Chuchu seemed to have recovered her usual self after hearing him speak.

She shook her head, "Don't joke around like this again. Regardless of your reason for getting close to me, I will soon leave this place. It's likely that we will never meet each other again."

"What? Leave?"

Zhuo Fan was alarmed. He finally found this Bodhi Jade Sap and now she wanted to leave? [Where do I go looking for heavenly medicine then?]

"Where?" Zhuo Fan blurted.

"I won't tell you even if you ask!" Chuchu turned and left, "This will be the last time we see each other." Her steps were growing ever fainter.

Zhuo Fan's eyes now flashed with a trace of resolution. He would have to fight for the Bodhi Jade Sap if he still wanted it. But the opponent was a Profound Heaven expert. A noisy fight might break out and more experts would come. At that point, his fate was sealed.

Killing intent flashed in his eyes and feigned reluctance in his voice, "Sister Chuchu, don't leave! I don't want to be away from you- ah!"

Zhuo Fan pretended to be weak as he got up, only to collapse forward.

Even flung from a hundred-meter-tall cliff wouldn't put a dent in him with his Bone Tempering cultivation, in normal cases. But women were women.

Chuchu's heart turned soft and was by his side to support him. But Zhuo Fan let out an evil smirk as he clawed at Chuchu.

He'd force her to hand over the Bodhi Jade Sap. If not, he was going to pry it from her cold dead body.

Zhuo Fan wasn't kind, striking down even his so-called friends if it came to it.

Since she was a Profound Heaven expert, she slanted her head the moment she heard the sound from the swift attack and avoided Zhuo Fan's move.

The claw passed by her neck, taking with it the cloth over her face and exposing a delicate and smooth skin.

Since the first attack didn't work, he wanted to continue, but Chuchu's expression left him dumbfounded.

[Incredible!]

That was the only thought in his mind. Chuchu's features made her the most perfect, most outstanding beauty he had ever seen. This was even if he were to include his past life. So much so, he couldn't even conceive the thought such a being existed.

[She is indeed a fairy.]

Zhuo Fan forgot even his objective.

Chuchu was also lost, not having detected Zhuo Fan's killing intent. His slackjawed expression made her blush as tears pooled in her pure eyes.

Bam!

A crisp slap made intimate contact with Zhuo Fan's face, throwing him into the wall. She picked up the rough cloth on the ground and covered her face before leaving.

With the clear teardrops still stained on the floor.

"W-what's going on?"

Zhuo Fan rubbed his inflamed cheek, finding it impossible to forget her visage.

"Who knew the world could birth such beauty? I thought what I used before was flattery, but it turned out to be true. Pretty eyes are always on pretty women. And she is the most amazing in the world."

Zhuo Fan sighed with palpitation and sorrow.

Suddenly, something occurred to him, and rushed outside. But there was no sign of Chuchu or any trace of her Yuan Qi.

[Sister, at least leave the Bodhi Jade Sap behind!]

Zhuo Fan was crying inside, [Now I'm back to square one!]

[Blast it all to hell! What was I doing gawking instead of attacking? Am I a lecher that can't move when he sees a beautiful woman?]

Zhuo Fan cursed himself as he sighed again and again...

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Chapter 104, 2nd Layer of Bone Tempering Stage

Three days later, the Dong siblings were asking around as they made their way through the slums.

"Bro Song, where are you?"

Dong Tianba took his sister to a run-down house where he noticed Zhuo Fan's figure through a hole in the roof.

He was sitting on the bed with his eyes closed in meditation.

"Bro, I finally found you! It's good that you're alright!" Dong Tianba ran to him but bumped into an invisible wall and was flung into the dirt.

Opening his eyes, Zhuo Fan exhaled as he stood up.

With all the effort he put into cultivating these past few days, he reached the 2nd layer of Bone Tempering Stage! He had Yan Fu's three poisons to thank for that.

Poison was also a tonic. Zhuo Fan refined them and also absorbed Chuchu's yin Yuan Qi resulting in a one-month early breakthrough.

This advancement strengthened his body and speed by 10%. Now, the average Profound Heaven experts were nothing and he could even clash with those body cultivators in the Profound Heaven Stage!

With a wave of his hand, he released the defensive array and walked out with a smile, "Bro, a second rate clan such as you coming to visit my humble home truly brings light into this wretched house!"

"Please, stop pretending!"

Dong Tianba patted the dust from his clothes, "What's with this house? Why couldn't I enter and felt like I got slapped instead?"

"Ha-ha-ha, you think anyone can just waltz in?" Zhuo Fan laughed, "These three days, I was cultivating in seclusion and set up a defensive array so no one would bother me."

"What, you know freaking arrays?"

Dong Tianba jumped, his two eyes staring at Zhuo Fan in shock, "Bro, if I haven't indulged in vices with you for so long, I'd think you're a different person. We haven't seen each other for a few years and not only has your strength soared but you're also knowledgeable in arrays as well as having refining skills?"

Dong Xiaowan stared with her pretty eyes at Zhuo Fan in worship.

Laughing out loud, Zhuo Fan hurried to explain, "Brother Dong, don't tease me. I used to be so frivolous in my youth but young miss Dong and your grandfather woke me up. Let bygones be bygones."

"Big brother Song it all my fault?" Dong Xiaowan's rebuking glance seemed to be sending a message. Though, in fact, it was filled with love.

Dong Tianba smacked his lips, "Little brother's glorious success leaves me ashamed! I'll work hard and one day reach new heights just like you!"

[Ha-ha-ha, cultivation is based firstly on talent, second on luck, and third on diligence! If anyone could've become strong after just hard work, the world would've been filled with experts.]

Zhuo Fan gave a bitter laugh. Dong Tianba's talent will only allow him to reach Profound Heaven Stage at best. Without a lucky break, he would never advance beyond that.

But Zhuo Fan didn't want to curb his enthusiasm.

"Oh, Brother Song, where's lady Chuchu?" Dong Tianba looked around, "She said she'll save you and had actually done it. She is such a strange person. Why is it that I don't see her around?"

"It's a long story."

Zhuo Fan sighed, having recalled the Bodhi Jade Sap and was filled with lament, "I had the perfect chance and blew it. But regretting it now is pointless. If the heavens would grace me with another chance, I will definitely strike when I need to!"

Zhuo Fan was filled with resolve while Dong Tianba misunderstood, "She left?"

Zhuo Fan nodded with a sigh.

"Bro, you have become so infatuated!" Dong Tianba patted his shoulder, "It's alright, lovers will one day reunite. Just make sure to not let her go next time!"

Zhuo Fan didn't get the chance to explain as Dong Xiaowan glared at her brother.

Dong Tianba noticed it and changed his tone, "Uh, that lady Chuchu must have left because she has another lover. Forget about her! The world is teeming with flowers so you don't need to stop at the first one you find. Perhaps the one before you might be even better."

Dong Xiaowan was bashful.

Zhuo Fan watched the siblings' act while blinking dumbstruck. [Do I look like a man intoxicated by emotions?]

[My only regret is missing my chance to get the Bodhi Jade Sap.]

Though Zhuo Fan didn't clear the misunderstanding, he continued to speak. "Brother Dong, did you come here to make sure I am still alive and kicking, or is there something else?"

Dong Tianba recalled the reason for his visit and facepalmed, "Brother Song, thanks for reminding me, I totally forgot. I came to make sure you're alright and, for the safety of both our clans, to take you somewhere."

Dong Tianba then pulled Zhuo Fan.

Zhuo Fan was baffled but followed after noticing how serious he was. Since he lost all trails on Bodhi Jade Sap, it was better to go with Dong Tianba and ask around.

The trio arrived before a tall building. The plaque on it left Zhuo Fan secretly giving a chuckle. Meanwhile, he had a vulgar grin on his face, "He-he-he, brother Dong, you just said you're going to work hard but how come you brought me to this place?"

"What place?" Dong Tianba was clueless.

With a wretched smile, Zhuo Fan pointed at the plaque, "Brother Dong, don't play the fool. You're much more cultured than me. Look, it says bro-"

"Mph!"

Dong Tianba clamped his mouth shut as he cursed, "Quiet, this is Drifting Flowers City! A place ruled by women. You think there are such places here?"

"Uh, then..." Zhuo Fan blinked at the plaque.

Dong Tianba looked where he was pointing and almost cried, "Brother! Please look closer. It's the Iris Edifice!"

After a long look, Zhuo Fan noticed right then when the wind blew the red silk away and revealed the whole plaque.

(StarReader: play on words. The first character for brothel is the same for iris.)

This was the Iris Edifice, the top of the 15 buildings under Drifting Flowers Edifice. And the Iris Overseer too was none other than Qin Caiqing!

"Ha-ha-ha, so it's the Iris Edifice. I thought such a place was uncultured and didn't bother remembering the matron's name and called it brothel..."

"You're still saying it?" Dong Tianba glared at him and sighed in relief once he found no one paid attention to them.

Uttering the word brothel in Drifting Flowers Edifice's domain was suicide!

Dong Xiaowan pouted, "Humph, all men are the same. Let me warn you, both of you are forbidden from going into such places again."

Zhuo Fan laughed dryly, [If you want to bother someone, nag at your brother. Why are you lumping me together with him? We're not related and I am a free spirit!]

"Brother Dong, why did you drag me here?" Zhuo Fan ignored Dong Xiaowan.

The frown further emphasized the seriousness on Dong Tianba's face, "Brother, I have thought long and hard these past days and realized our misfortune came from offending Peony Edifice's Xiao Dandan."

"Among the fifteen overseers, Iris Overseer is the most amiable and the easiest to speak with. I want to ask her to help dissuade this grudge. If not, even if we shave our heads and hide in a monastery, we'll meet our end sooner or later!"

Zhuo Fan snorted but secretly nodded.

[If that Iris Overseer had any intention of helping us, Xiao Dandan would have been kept on a tight leash. She did all this in an attempt to expose my identity.]

This was fine anyway since Zhuo Fan wanted to know the Iris Overseer in person, to figure out how deep her suspicion went. And whether or not his battle with Yan Fu worked to consolidate these guesses!

Zhuo Fan nodded, "Bro you're so thorough. The Iris Overseer is definitely a place the two of us must pay a visit."

"Since bro agrees then let's go." Dong Tianba laughed and produced a red invitation to the two Qi Condensation young ladies standing guard.

Dong Tianba bowed 90 degrees as he offered it, "Please announce that Dong Tianba and Dong Xiaowan along with the Song clan's Song Yu have come to visit Iris Overseer!"

"Humph, you think it's that easy for second and third rate clans to waltz in?" The girl snorted.

Dong Tianba was beet red in anger, but his bow didn't flinch under the contemptuous stare of the girl.

Dong Xiaowan chewed her lip and sighed.

She felt sorry for her brother but there was no other way. This was the reception all clans outside the seven houses got.

Zhuo Fan wasn't known for his patience, entering while Dong Xiaowan was distracted.

"Ladies, do you know Xiao Dandan?"

One of them looked at Zhuo Fan, "She is our senior sister. What, you know her? She's from Peony Edifice while this is Iris Edifice. We won't announce your arrival even for her sake."

"Ha-ha-ha, that's not my intention at all. But have you heard? She was stripped naked by a man in the middle of the street, leaving her in nothing but her underwear."

The two's eyelids twitched as they nodded.

"He-he-he, that man was none other than me!"

Zhuo Fan let out a wicked smile, "Do you believe me when I say that if you do not announce our arrival, I will peel your clothes off in broad daylight?"

The two recoiled, "How dare you! This is Iris Edifice!"

"Is there a difference?" Zhuo Fan stared them right in the eye. His killing intent spiked and a soul ripple swept the two.

The ladies shivered, fear had gripped their hearts.

"W-wait here. I will go make the announcement!" Unable to withstand his cold gaze, one lady ran inside, leaving the other shivering.

Dong Tianba sighed.

Ever since he met Song Yu again, Dong Tianba felt he was a different person. Not only in strength but also in character, not putting even the seven houses in his eyes.

This was why he brought his sister along, to keep an eye out on this brother of his. But not only did she overlook his actions, the latter was now looking for trouble!

[We came here to look for asylum. And you've come asking for help with that attitude? It'd be lucky if they don't slaughter your entire clan!]

Not only was Zhuo Fan indifferent, but he also had a proud look plastered on his face, "Bro, towards these small-time snobs, fear is the best solution! He-he-he..."

"Bro, you..." Dong Tianba sighed.

He could only hope Iris Floor Keeper was open-minded enough to overlook this...

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Chapter 105, Bodhi Root

The Dong siblings waited nervously while Zhuo Fan looked calmer than ever.

The lady soon returned and spoke in a frightened tone, "The Overseer shall see you!"

"Oh, great! Thank you!"

Dong Tianba bowed then rushed inside dragging his sister. Zhuo Fan swaggered in in the slowest and most languid way, smirking at the ladies and giving them the middle finger as he passed.

The ladies stepped back in fright, and only gained some semblance of reassurance when he was gone.

"Hey, did you also report how vulgar that punk is?" The other lady asked.

The first one was sullen, "Sister, I did, repeatedly!"

"Then why is the Overseer letting them in? She should've sent someone to put him in his place!"

The other lady was on the verge of crying, "Sister, don't say it, it's useless. Do you know what the Overseer said when I mentioned his obscene behavior?"

"What?"

"Four words: 'don't provoke the lunatic!'"

"What?!"

The other lady was scared now, her eyes wide as saucers. She didn't know Zhuo Fan's identity but their Overseer actually went as far as to recommend not offending him?

[Is he from the seven houses?]

[That can't be. The invitation clearly states Dong and Song clans. The Dong clan is a second rate clan, and the Song a third rate clan. It doesn't make sense to let him go unrestrained!]

This was the thinking of people who had yet to witness the sheer brutality and savagery of the infamous Zhuo Fan.

A madman wasn't scary, but a pig headed madman was.

Zhuo Fan dolled up as Song Yu when he came to Drifting Flowers City, but his demeanor was as frivolous and whimsical as ever. In any case, the trouble would fall on the Song clan. So, he was free to be brasher than ever.

With this incentive, he plunged the Merry Woods' disciple into a world of hurt, spicing up the show by humiliating the Peony Edifice's disciple, and then trashing of Pill King Hall's disciple as the curtains fell. He showed no leniency to any of them, despite them hailing from the seven houses.

Yet, with all the trouble pilling up on his head, he wasn't in the least bit interested regarding the danger he was bringing the Song clan. Even Iris Overseer was not willing to mess with such a lunatic, who had no mind of the repercussions.

It was fine if he didn't care about his life, but others close to him?

This was a fact made obvious when he clobbered Yan Fu. Qin Caiqing thus warned the disciple to avoid something she would clearly regret.

The two though were unaware of the whole story, so they thought Zhuo Fan was someone of immense power with a deep background that affected even their Overseer.

Zhuo Fan had long foreseen such a possibility. The one truly frightening people were those stubborn and hardheaded people that were willing to forsake even their lives.

In the eyes of those who watched his battle with Yan Fu, he was a man who had died once. And this only worked to boost his egotistical behavior instead of putting a damp on it, further removing many troubles.

Bulling the weak and fearing the strong, along with self-preservation was a law adhered by all, be it strong or weak. Even the seven houses had to think twice when messing with this stubborn mule, even if they thought he was beneath them.

With a dastardly grin on his face, Zhuo Fan cackled in his heart. He was met with no obstruction as he walked with the pair of siblings to Iris Overseer's receiving room. She was already sitting there and watched in awe Zhuo Fan strutting in, "Please, sit!"

"I wouldn't dare!"

Dong Tianba dragged his sister into a bow while Zhuo Fan slumped into a chair, "Much obliged."

Dong Tianba was scared witless, on the verge of crying.

[Blast it all to hell! You're in someone else's house! If you piss her off, it won't be just the Song clan that gets buried!]

[I pleaded with you all this time to behave. If I knew you this impudent I would've never had brought you.]

Dong Tianba lamented in his mind as he rushed to make amends, "Please ignore him Floor Keeper. My brother is rash and uncivilized. Please don't blame him."

"Ha-ha-ha, young master Song is true to himself, why would I ever blame him? Also, you two can dispense the courtesy and sit." Qin Caiqing said with a smile.

Dong Tianba wiped his forehead and pulled his sister into a seat, while not forgetting to send Zhuo Fan a glare.

Zhuo Fan ignored it, of course, since he didn't even see it.

Dong Tianba sighed, his feature tenses as if at a funeral!

Qin Caiqing giggled, her eyes drifting over them, "Young master Dong, this isn't the underworld. Relax! Try to be like young master Song!"

Dong Tianba right then noticed Zhuo Fan taking a bite out of a random fruit he picked off the table.

Dong Tianba's eyelids were twitching, [He's too comfortable. This isn't your home, you know?]

But he only kept it to himself when he saw Qin Caiqing's calm state.

They said Iris Overseer was an amiable person, but he didn't think it was to this extent. [She's so friendly that it should be easy to handle our problem!]

Dong Tianba bowed once again and spoke in a grave tone, "Overseer, the three of us have come with a request."

"Do speak!" Qin Caiqing smiled.

"Overseer, a few days ago we offended miss Xiao Dandan and this had us in a fright these past two days. This might be presumptuous of me, but I want to ask the Overseer to mediate, to remove this grudge between us. The Song and Dong clans will forever be in your gratitude!"

"I understand this matter and Dandan was the one going overboard. I will be sure to straighten her." Qin Caiqing nodded, then smiled at Zhuo Fan, "However, I can't help but feel intrigued about something. They say young master Song was hit by Pill King Hall's Yan Fu's Rainbow Cloud Palm because of Dandan. How is he back on his feet after only a few days? Pill King Hall's poison isn't so easily removed."

Dong Tianba froze but for a moment, then glanced at Zhuo Fan. Chuchu was Zhuo Fan's friend and it was up to him if he wanted to reveal her involvement. If he made a careless comment and invited disaster later, his dear little brother would blame him for the rest of his life.

Zhuo Fan nodded satisfied. Dong Tianba was a black sheep of the family but he had a redeeming feature, his loyal heart.

As for Chuchu, Zhuo Fan was also thinking of asking around for her. Qin Caiqing was an Overseer and ought to know of the Profound Heaven expert Chuchu's Bodhi Jade Sap.

He was brief and blunt, "I met a woman covering her face who dispelled the poison swiftly!"

"A woman covering her face?" Qin Caiqing was caught by surprise.

"Yes. I met her in the slums, a woman that calls herself Chuchu. The people there call her the scourge woman!" Zhuo Fan fixed his eyes on Qin Caiqing, noticing suspicion in her eyes. It was then that a sudden realization seemed to overcome her but she quickly hid it.

"Ha-ha-ha, young master Song is fortunate to have such an encounter. Your future will be boundless!"

Zhuo Fan squinted, "I can only hope!"

From the two's casual talk, Chuchu wasn't such a sore topic. Dong Tianba was scared she had some conflict with Drifting Flowers Edifice that would affect today's talks.

His hand flashed and a coral as large as a man appeared, glowing a faint red.

This item was so rare that even Zhuo Fan raised an eyebrow. It was useless to cultivators but its value came from its rarity. It was worth more than a hundred thousand spirit stones.

Dong Tianba bowed again, "Then please accept this for your troubles, Overseer."

"I accept your kindness, but take back with you. I will handle Dandan all the same." Qin Caiqing didn't even glance at the coral.

Dong Tianba bowed again in panic, "This is but a token of my appreciation. Please take it, or I wouldn't be able to find peace."

[Bullshit! Riches are given in exchange for favors. If you don't take it, how do I know you'll do it? If you overlook this once we leave, that damn girl will burn our clans to the ground. And you might not even know it!]

[No, you will most likely have forgotten us by then. At least taking my gift ought to remind you of our plight each time you look at it, no?]

Dong Tianba cursed inside. Qin Caiqing understood him and shook her head as she took the item.

Only then did Dong Tianba smile in relieve.

Qin Caiqing clapped triced and a disciple brought wine.

"Guests from afar, you gave me an immense gift. These three bottles of Hundred Flowers Wine is our Drifting Flowers Edifice's specialty that helps in one's cultivation. Please accept my gift."

"Uh, we can't possibly refuse Floor Keeper's generous hospitality." Dong Tianba laughed as he poured himself a cup. Zhuo Fan and Dong Xiaowan toasted and drank.

"What great wine!"

Dong Tianba praised but plopped on the table unconscious the next second. The same went for Dong Xiaowan, while Zhuo Fan was the only one sober.

Raising an eyebrow, he smiled, "Overseer, is there something you want to say to me?"

Qin Caiqing gave him a praising look and nodded, "You're smart. I need you to do something for me. Do it well and the two of you can leave the Drifting Flowers City in safety. Fail, and your clans will shortly follow you into the grave!"

"Is that a threat?" Zhuo Fan perked the corner of his mouth into a wicked grin.

Qin Caiqing shook her head, "No. A fact. I know you're a brash and fearless man, but didn't you come here to settle the matter with Dandan? If you don't do this for me, I won't help you either. And with that lass' temper, your two clans will have no future!"

Zhuo Fan squinted, "Let's hear it. And if I can't do it, I'm guessing you're going to destroy us anyway. "

Zhuo Fan's carefree tone seemed to say he didn't care. But Qin Caiqing found this extremely odd. Who in this world didn't care about their clan's fate?

[Madman, a true lunatic! This man can't be controlled!]

Qin Caiqing secretly sighed while her face remained impassive, "I'm not asking the impossible. I only want you to steal something from me!"

"What?" Zhuo Fan yawned.

"Our Edifice Lord's treasure, the Bodhi Root!"

"Come again?"

"The Bodhi Root!" Qin Caiqing iterated.

His eyes wide, Zhuo Fan's heart was in exultation.

Bodhi Root gathered earth essence and turned it into life essence in the form of Bodhi Jade Sap. Who'd have seen this coming? He just lost his trail on the Bodhi Jade Sap and now he has clues about a Bodhi Root!

[Bloody hell! This is providence, ha-ha-ha...]

Zhuo Fan cackled inside, his eyes glinting with interest...

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Chapter 106, Scouting Drifting Flowers Edifice

"As an Overseer, a valuable member of Drifting Flowers Edifice. Why are you doing this?" Despite how thrilled he was, it was best to cover all bases and know the situation in detail.

Qin Caiqing's eyes showed a deep gaze as her tone grew colder, "That does not concern you. All you have to do is to get it!"

"But Drifting Flowers Edifice is packed with guards. How am I..."

Qin Caiqing cut him off, "You need not concern yourself with this. I made preparations!"

After she spoke, Qin Caiqing placed a map in his hand. Zhuo Fan looked at the multitude of colorful lines and symbols blended in an intricate mesh.

"It is easy to remember, contains the Drifting Flowers Edifice's terrain along with the patrol routes and when they change shifts. With your skill, as long as you're smart, it won't be hard getting in and out!"

Squinting, Zhuo Fan put away the map in deep thought.

This was the perfect chance to get his hands on the Bodhi Root, but was suspicious that this might be a trap. Qin Caiqing may have already known his identity and set up an ambush there. If he was against Profound Heaven experts, not even his wings could save him.

[Though it is highly unlikely for this to happen!] If he didn't have the Iris Overseer's help, entering Drifting Flowers Edifice would be difficult!

"Have you come to a decision?" Iris Overseer stared at his face, her heart nervous, "young master Song, I'm sorry if I have to resort to unbecoming language when I say this. But if you don't do it and leak it instead, I will gouge out your eyes, wretch out your tongue, and tear your arms and legs from your body. "

"Ah? And what choice does that leave me?"

Zhuo Fan snickered, "Although, Iris Overseer, I have to admit, that is a bit vicious of you to do. Tearing my limbs from my body, wretching my tongue out, and gouging my eyes is worse than dying."

Knowing he agreed to her request, the Iris Overseer's heart eased, "I am not one who takes killing lightly. But as you've seen the map and still chose not to agree, all those actions are to prevent you from leaking the secret, be it through writing or otherwise!"

Rolling his eyes, Zhuo Fan's mouth twitched, "Then, why must you take my feet? Is my feet useful in writing?"

"I don't know. With what an oddity Young master Song is, who knows what you're truly capable of?" Qin Caiqing gave a silly smile, hidden behind her veil. Although her features were obscured, her beauty couldn't be hidden.

Zhuo Fan sighed.

[She is quite the looker, but her heart is so poisonous.] This was something he could understand. This world was one where might was right, and men ruled. A woman had to be vicious enough, poisonous enough, to stand tall in this world.

With how naive and gullible that pure Xue Ningxiang was, if it weren't for her encounter with the demon, Zhuo Fan, she would've been Hell Valley's cauldron by now!

Zhuo Fan started to recall the carefree life the three led in the Allbeast Mountain Range. Those were the best and shortest days of both his lives.

"Young master Song, you will go tonight."

"So soon?" Zhuo Fan stared at Qin Caiqing. He was impatient of getting Bodhi Root, but not that much. Who knew the Iris Overseer was in even more of a rush?

"Young master Song, there's something you may not know!"

Qin Caiqing sighed, "The Bodhi Root is something the Edifice Lord protects herself. Only when the month of full moon does she go in seclusion, leaving the Bodhi Root in the Treasure Pavilion's care. We are running out of time, as she is soon to come out!"

"Tianyu's number one beauty, Chu Qingcheng?" Zhuo Fan raised an eyebrow, "What's her cultivation?"

Her stare was fixed on Zhuo Fan. Until she was certain he didn't show any odd reaction, she responded, despite being doubtful, "She is my junior sister, and should be in the 3rd layer of Profound Heaven Stage!"

[That much should be possible to fight off!]

Zhuo Fan analyzed, then nodded, "Then I will go tonight!"

Qin Caiqing was overjoyed and released a scent to the Dong siblings to wake them up.

Since they were out for the duration of the talk, Qin Caiqing explained they fainted after drinking such a potent wine, but that it wouldn't happen again in the future.

This concluded the meeting and Qin Caiqing saw them out. Dong Tianba was more than happy to leave now that his aim was achieved. As they passed by the entrance, the two ladies were still in fear, holding their tongues in check.

But once the trio was gone, Zhuo Fan threw a pill into the air. A flash of red flew out of him and swallowed the Energy Concealing Pill, then went into Iris Edifice.

He was curious to know what Iris Overseer's true game was.

Blood Infant moved like a specter, entering the drawing-room, without anyone's notice, where Iris Overseer was still sitting.

A cough suddenly came and a person appeared behind Qin Caiqing. Zhuo Fan cried out, "Vicious Pill King Yan Song! Why is he here?"

"Why are you doing this?" Yan Song touched her shoulder and squeezed, making Qin Caiqing grimace and her face flash green!

Qin Caiqing gnashed her teeth as she broke out in fine sweat, "Elder Yan, I am Iris Overseer. If I don't do this, I can no longer keep my position! Once the fool gets the item, his life would have run its course and no one will know of my involvement. "

"Humph, you're still thinking of escaping liability even when you execute my plans. If anything goes wrong with the brat and ruins my plan, I will have you answer for it!"

Yan Song clutched at Qin Caiqing harder, throwing her on the ground. She could only let him do what he wanted as tears of humiliation streaked her cheeks.

Yan Song ridiculed, "Of the 15 overseers, I control more than half. Drifting Flowers Edifice will soon come under Pill King Hall and the first of seven houses to be swallowed. Do you think exposing this will help you? As long as I'm here, act like the Iris Overseer you are, not for Drifting Flowers Tower, but for my Pill King Hall!

"You heard the brat, there's someone in this city that can remove your poison. If your poison is cured, how will you threaten the other overseers?"

Yan Song gave her a contemptuous and evil smile, "Were you always waiting for the arrival of such a man that will save Drifting Flowers Edifice from this crisis?"

"Ha-ha-ha, what wishful thinking! My Rainbow Cloud Palm is made up of seven savage poisons and no one can remove it! The brat was only lucky to be hit by my disciple's three poison palm. If it was mine instead, not even the most renowned alchemist could save his wretched life!"

Qin Caiqing bit her lip, a trail of blood flowing down and tears glistened in her eyes from the resentment she carried.

Snorting, Yan Song kicked her, "Bitch, get rid of him once he comes back. Or you and your sisters will wait in silence for death without me, ha-ha-ha...

"A woman will always be a woman, reliant on a man. You must be delusional for fighting against the world of man!" Yan Song laughed as he left.

Zhuo Fan surmised she must be feeling hatred, anger, and deep-seated powerlessness. Though it had nothing to do with him.

So he willed Blood Infant to return.

Now that light has been shone on the matter, he could go all out. He'll get the Bodhi Root and skip town.

As for the Song and Dong clan, [Thanks for taking the fall.]

Zhuo Fan snickered secretly, looking at the Dong siblings without any remorse. They had elders to get them out of any situation. [I owe you guys nothing after all.]

[So, be grateful for helping me out! Okay?]

The Dong siblings reciprocated his warm smile with another of their own. Though appearances could be deceiving, where even a smile hid countless dangers...

In the dead of night, silence ruled. The street was empty but there were some who were moving around a large building, the patrol.

Three words were gracefully placed on the building, Drifting Flowers Edifice!

Zhuo Fan flashed in the darkness, wearing black clothes from head to toe. He made use of the patrols changing shifts and snuck inside. Through a series of odd twists and turns, he arrived at a pond.

Looking back, Zhuo Fan sighed and took the map out with a smile, "With Qin Caiqing's help, I wouldn't have known of all these arrays."

"There are freaking ten of them! I just passed one and still have nine to go..."

Zhuo Fan sighed and stepped back into the darkness. He was adept in arrays, but it would be very easy to get trapped in them without prior investigation.

But knowing the map and the disciples' routes, he had it in the bag!

[I guess people have this saying, attacks you can avoid day and night, but thieves are hard to counter! When I get back to the Luo clan, I will have to make proper arrangements so that this won't ever happen to me!]

Zhuo Fan had such an easy time with the arrays, he even indulged in flights of fancy. Soon, the ten arrays were cleared.

The objective was almost in sight.

Treasure Pavilion, Bodhi Root...

Chapter 107, Drifting Flowers' Whisper

Under the cover of the inky black night, Zhuo Fan advanced like a cat through the sentries and arrived at the inner courtyard.

But for some reason he stopped, brows furrowed.

Taking the map out again, Zhuo Fan flitted his gaze from the map to the layout again and again, "Someone changed it!"

The inner courtyard had a 5th-grade array, Shifting Defensive Array. It affected every corner of the courtyard and messed with the layout.

Going by the map's explanation, the Drifting Flowers Edifice shifted once a month for protection. So much so that not even the disciples knew of the new layout!

But Qin Caiqing was an Overseer and knew the basis behind the shift, pointing the crucial locations out on the map.

Now that he was here, Zhuo Fan saw there had been another shift, with those locations were no longer valid. He was now forced to search everywhere for the Treasure Pavilion.

"Curses! Things only get worse!"

Zhuo Fan sighed as he stepped lightly, while also letting Blood Infant out to help move things along.

Whoosh~

Blood Infant flashed through empty rooms after empty rooms until feeling a sudden powerful force. Zhuo Fan squinted, [Profound Heaven expert!, and made Blood Infant vanish.

In a sparse room – with a bed, a table, and a chair – a yellow lamp burned faintly on the table. Zhuo Fan recognized the old man meditating on the bed as being Xie Tianyang's 8th elder, Jian Suifeng.

The door creaked and Xie Tianyang entered covered in sweat, gasping for breath as he slumped in the chair.

Jian Suifeng opened his eyes and watched Xie Tianyang, pleased. "Tianyang, you've been working hard as of late. It won't be long before you surpass your elder brother."

"Humph, my dad always says elder brother is a genius that comes by once a millennium. Not even a Radiant Stage cultivator can beat him, so how can I compare?"

Xie Tianyang was filled with fighting spirit, "I am content as long as I can surpass that punk."

Jian Suifeng smiled, "You mean... that freak Zhuo Fan?"

"Yes!"

Xie Tianyang's eyes flashed with sorrow, "8th elder, my only regret in life is that I was powerless in Blue Expanse City because I didn't train harder. I let Ning'er down when she needed me most! I hope the next time will be me who will protect her, not Zhuo Fan!"

Jian Suifeng sighed, "Tianyang, you are too talented and the Abode Lord won't let you marry a second rate clan's daughter"

"I know that, just..."

Xie Tianyang chuckled in the end, "If there's one good thing that damn punk taught me, it is that might makes right. There's nothing in this world you cannot do. You all kept saying how treacherous You Guiqi was, but didn't he find his end in Zhuo Fan's hands? With enough strength, I will be deciding my bride, and dad can do nothing to stop me!"

Laughing, Xie Tianyang left the room.

"Tianyang, where are you going?"

"Training!"

Xie Tianyang was firm in his decision, his eyes proud, "Of the Flowing Space's Nine Forms I only know four. I will be practicing the fifth!"

"What, you know the fourth?!"

Jian Suifeng watched the leaving Xie Tianyang with pride, "Watching Zhuo Fan's battle must have motivated him. If he keeps this up, it won't be long before he's in the Profound Heaven Stage, ha-ha-ha..."

Blood Infant slunk back out. Zhuo Fan shook his head, [Didn't think Xie Tianyang took me as a rival. This is good, with his power, I can rest easy knowing he can protect Ning'er!]

Zhuo Fan moved Blood Infant to another room. But it was just another empty room.

From the map, Treasure Pavilion was always shifted close to the Edifice Lord's chambers. It wasn't near this empty one. [But then, where can her room be?]

"Sister Dandan, give me a kiss, just one!"

"Young master Yan, please don't..."

"Ai, your fiancée, Lin Tianyu, is already ruined by that brat. He can't make you happy, so let me."

He suddenly heard two voices and moved Blood Infant inside the room, hoping to eavesdrop on some clues.

But Zhuo Fan was shocked when Blood Infant entered. [I beat the crap out of this disciple, but he is now mostly recovered. Pill King Hall's number one alchemist sure deserves his fame, healing his protege to such an extent in a mere three days.]

Only a 7th-grade alchemist could do that.

As the disciple recovered, so did his lust. He was now on the bed holding Xiao Dandan's hand without letting her go. His mind had to be in the gutter.

[Humph, perverted couple, none of you are worth a dime! I don't have time to waste on you!] Zhuo Fan snorted inside.

Yan Fu suddenly pulled Xiao Dandan into bed and loomed over her, "He-he-he, fair lady, stay with me tonight."

"No! Young master Yan. The ladies of Drifting Flowers Edifice give themselves to their husbands only on their wedding night."

"What Drifting Flowers Edifice? It will all belong to Pill King Hall sooner or later anyway!" Yan Fu's eyes became malevolent as he eyed Xiao Dandan with suspicion, "Are you still pining for that impotent fiancée of yours?"

"N-no!" Xiao Dandan cried.

"Then what are you waiting for? Let us enjoy ourselves." Yan Fu started to roam his hands around as Xiao Dandan's gave off powerless protests, "Young master Yan, don't! I need to pay my respects to my master each evening!"

[Pay respects?]

Wasn't her master Peony Overseer? That meant following her would lead him closer to Treasure Pavilion.

Zhuo Fan stopped in his tracks and his heart burst with rage when he saw Yan Fu about to take advantage of Xiao Dandan.

[Goddammit! Get the f*ck down, bastard! Don't ruin my plans, she still needs to visit her master!]

Blood Infant entered Yan Fu in a flash.

Yan Fu just loosened his waistband but then felt a sharp pain in his stomach. With a waning face, he plopped on the floor!

Xiao Dandan was still shivering even after he collapsed. She put him on the bed and covered him with the quilt. Then left after wiping her tears.

Perhaps because of the fear she was in, she did not question why Yan Fu had blanked out and left.

Zhuo Fan snickered as he sent Blood Infant on her trail.

Yan Fu was no one important. He didn't want to earn Vicious Pill King's rage because of the brat. So, he only allowed the Blood Infant to suck up enough of Yan Fu's blood to knock him out.

Following Xiao Dandan, Zhuo Fan soon arrived at a large building. The lamps were lit and the fragrance of women drifted for over a hundred meters.

Blood Infant followed Xiao Dandan, who rushed to the door where she knocked.

Zhuo Fan was startled and sent Blood Infant inside. He found not only a woman but also a man.

She was very bold and, despite her veil, her chest was covered by a thin cloth while leaving her back bare open. Her promiscuous eyes landed on the man.

He was a middle-aged man, with a split mustache that stared hotly at the woman's chest!

[How is this a Seven Noble House? It'd be better changing its name to brothel. Why is it that everywhere I go, I end up seeing these things?]

Zhuo Fan shook his head and sighed. But he was still a man and couldn't help but sneak another peek.

"Elder Lin, do you love me?" The woman giggled.

Bobbing his head, the man was drooling, "I love you with all my being, Peony Overseer. I, Lin Zitian, love you dearly and even die for you. I only hope that Overseer would allow me a glimpse of your delicate features!"

He reached for her veil, but Peony Overseer dodged with a giggle, "Elder Lin, you must first make me yours before taking my veil!"

"I will, I will most certainly make you mine!" Lin Zitian was overcome with lust, as if he never saw a woman in his life.

Peony Overseer rolled her eyes, "Then, do you agree to my marriage condition?"

"Uh..."

Lin Zitian frowned and his face fell, "Peony, don't make it difficult for me. All of seven houses know how dreadful Vicious Pill King is. Asking me to face him is the same as wanting my life."

"Humph, Lin Zitian, where has all that love you proclaimed gone? Didn't you say you'd die for me?"

"I am willing to die for you, but not a worthless death."

"All men are cheaters. Get lost!" Peony Overseer's anger flared and roared, tears welling in her eyes.

Lin Zitian shook his head, leaving slowly. When he got to the door, he sighed, "Peony, I know Drifting Flowers Edifice's situation and what you're thinking. But Drifting Flowers Edifice is hopeless, no one is willing to offend the Pill King Hall for you. If you have no safe place to turn to, look for me in Merry Woods."

Lin Zitian left slowly, leaving Peony Overseer in tears...

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Chapter 108, Seeing Chuchu Again

Translator: StarReader

Editor: p4553r

"Master..."

A delicate voice came from behind the Peony Overseer. She knew it was her disciple and hurried to wipe the tears away, before turning around.

But Xiao Dandan's disorderly appearance had her furious, "What happened? Was it Yan Fu who messed with you this time? Did he do anything to you?"

Chewing her lip, Xiao Dandan held in her tears as she furiously shook her head, "Master, he didn't do anything yet."

Sighing, Peony Overseer showed tenderness as she caressed Xiao Dandan's head, "Dandan, I was wrong to blame you..."

"Master, I am fine. But you bore such shame all because you cared for Drifting Flowers Edifice..."

"Don't say it." Peony Overseer interrupted her, "Dandan, remember, the men of this world only know to hide their intention behind sweet words. They say they love you, that they'd die for you, but when push comes to shove, they will leave you. Never ever believe a man's sophistry! "

Xiao Dandan's eyes roamed around before muttering, "Perhaps there is an exception..."

"Dandan, what are you saying?"

Peony Overseer's turned strict, "All men of this world are heartless, with no exceptions. Lin Zitian is the same, his master is the same, and even that Yan Fu... Humph, they only see us as a piece of meat. They will never stick out their necks for any of us! Women can only rely on themselves. No man is worthy of our trust!"

"But master..." Xiao Dandan flushed, "Didn't Zhuo Fan appear recently? I heard he ran amok in Blue Expanse City for one girl, killing Hell Valley's 7th elder. He was willing to defy Hell Valley for her. Isn't this love?"

"Zhuo Fan?"

Peony Overseer gasped, "I've never seen him and can't come to a decision of what kind of man he is. But rumors paint him as a bloodthirsty demon. His battle with You Guiqi may have had nothing to do with the girl. It could be a grudge he held against the 7th elder."

"But... aren't these all rumors spread by Hell Valley? This is clearly done deliberately to defame him!" Xiao Dandan spoke softly.

Peony Overseer raised an eyebrow, "Girl, why are you bringing him up? You have never saw him either!"

The Peony Overseer started to put things together, "Hmm, you've been strange of late. Fussing and complaining about Lin Tianyu while also going out to look for trouble. Was it all because you fancy Zhuo Fan?"

Zhuo Fan was stunned. [You're saying this girl acted all spoiled and humiliated the Dong clan because of me? I don't remember having that much charm. Since when is my name enough to make a girl fall head over heels for me and ruin other clans' happiness?]

[I guess being outstanding has its demerits!] Zhuo Fan got his head in the clouds.

Xiao Dandan was beet red, acting all bashful, "Master, don't tease me. I was only hoping of finding such a man myself, one that was willing to stand up to the seven houses for his girl."

"And that is why you found Lin Tianyu increasingly displeasing, right?" Peony Overseer saw Xiao Dandan nod and sighed, "Silly child, even if such a man does exist, it doesn't mean you'll be fortunate enough to meet him. We, the women of Drifting Flowers Edifice, only marry people form large clans to preserve our standing. You must accept this fate!"

Xiao Dandan resigned and nodded sadly.

Sighing, Peony Overseer patted her shoulder, "Dandan, I am tired, please patrol around Treasure Pavilion in my stead."

"Yes, Master!" Xiao Dandan left with a bow.

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed in glee. He got what he wanted without even asking. [It's like giving water to the thirsty. How convenient!]

He called Blood Infant back and slowly followed Xiao Dandan, to the blind eyes of the master and disciple.

After fifteen minutes of twists and turns, he saw before him a fifty meters tall pagoda. If one paid attention, he would sense a strange energy around it.

An array!

Zhuo Fan narrowed his eyes and withdrew. This array was controlled by those who lived here. If he forced his way in, he'd attract the experts around.

[But why isn't this array on the map? Is it to mislead me or did the Iris Overseer not know?]

Zhuo Fan was trying to figure out the reason but hadn't much to go on. He threw the thought away in the end. He only planned to take the Bodhi Root then bolt. Why would he give it to her anyway?

So Zhuo Fan paid close attention to Xiao Dandan's gestures as she shouted, "Open!"

The energy around the tower retreated.

Xiao Dandan entered, followed closely by Zhuo Fan.

The tower had six levels, illuminated by night pearls. Xiao Dandan checked the treasures on each level – cultivation methods, spiritual weapons and demonic treasures. On the 6th level, a wooden box laid on a pedestal in the middle of the room.

Xiao Dandan opened it with care, revealing a dark green root emanating a fragrance, dazzling in the moonlight!

Bam!

Xiao Dandan closed it and smiled, "All is in order!"

Then a black figure flashed and struck her neck, knocking her out.

"He-he-he, seeing you're a fan of yours truly, I'll let you off!"

A black cloth fell, revealing Zhuo Fan's twisted smile. He opened the box and took the root.

But the moment he touched it, he cried out, "Damn it... it's a fake!"

Zhuo Fan was panicking. It looked so similar to the real thing that he didn't realize the difference until he touched it.

The Bodhi Root had vital essence, and even as a root, it was still alive.

But this thing had the same looks and vibe as the real thing except it had no vitality in it.

This was clearly a countermeasure against robbers!

Squinting, Zhuo Fan was beginning to doubt if Qin Caiqing was in on this. But what was the point of making him steal a fake?

[Is it to fool Vicious Pill King?]

He put the root in the box and stashed it in his ring.

Since it was fake, he might as well give it to Iris Overseer and see her reaction.

"Who dares encroach upon Drifting Flowers Edifice's Treasure Pavilion?"

A woman's voice came from behind him. He could feel her power and knew it to be a Profound Heaven expert.

He made the logical decision to jump through the window and make a run for it.

But was a Profound Heaven expert going to let him leave that easily?

A thin cloth blocked his path. The woman's elegance and beauty were emphasized in the moonlight, akin to a fairy.

Zhuo Fan couldn't see past her veil, but was stunned nonetheless.

[Curses! Drifting Flowers Edifice is filled with beauties! Too bad yours only came after items, not to steal girls.]

Zhuo Fan charged.

The woman was perplexed seeing a 2nd layer of Bone Tempering cultivator coming right at her. This was no different than a deathwish.

The woman snorted inside and struck with a cold palm.

Zhuo Fan let out an odd smile just as it was about to hit him, vanishing with the Mystifying Phantom Step. The next moment he was behind the woman, fleeing.

She hadn't expected such skill from him and that caught her off-guard. Her delayed reaction allowed him to flee with a dozen meters advantage.

But she was a Profound Heaven expert and she managed to catch up. Her fair hand caught his shoulder as she turned. With a squeeze, Zhuo Fan halted on the spot.

"He-he-he, got you!"

Zhuo Fan grinned. Instead of throwing her off, he grabbed her hand, not letting it go. At the same time, lightning cracked as his wings unfolded.

The Lightning Wings were a 6th-grade demonic treasure and would send even this Profound Heaven expert to her doom.

Zhuo Fan was using a dirty and savage trick, but this was what he excelled at.

Feeling the danger, the woman released all her power!

The cold Yuan Qi flung Zhuo Fan's hand away. He withdrew his wings and cried, "Sister Chuchu..."

The woman was shocked beyond belief, "Don't tell me you're..."

Zhuo Fan didn't hope to have been found out so soon, but he chose to make use of the shock to disappear into the night.

Chuchu was left standing there, still baffled...

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Chapter 109, Iris Overseer's Stubbornness

Translator: StarReader

Editor: p4553r

Under the cover of night, Zhuo Fan moved like a cheetah through a groove fifty miles out of Drifting Flowers City. He stopped in a clearing and inspected the ice on his hand.

He took a deep breath to calm down. He had not expected to meet Chuchu so soon, and in the Drifting Flowers Edifice no less. Much less that he would be injured by this familiar yin energy.

Yet, this encounter brought him some ease.

Zhuo Fan cast a look back while sporting a strange smile.

This was where his meeting with Iris Overseer would take place. It was also the escape route marked on the map. He would give her the Bodhi Root here.

What Iris Overseer didn't know was that he wasn't coming alone, bringing his tail along.

A white immaculate figure floated on a branch not far behind Zhuo Fan under the cover of the darkness. A light breeze rustled the leaves and Zhuo Fan strained his ears.

He knew Chuchu was here. When was there a Profound Heaven expert that couldn't give chase to someone of his cultivation level? Well, of course, him not using the Lightning Wings may have had something to do with it.

His plan was to find out Iris Overseer's true purpose and Chuchu's true identity. Who knew if he might even find clues to the real Bodhi Root.

It all came to him in a flash of inspiration the moment he recognized Chuchu. All that's left was for the two Profound Heaven experts to meet and reveal their secrets.

Smiling, Zhuo Fan sighed as he looked around, "This is where we're supposed to meet, but it looks like I'm late. Since she doesn't want it, I'll just take it with me."

"Pff!"

Delicate laughter resounded followed by a bluish figure trailing among the trees. Her soft eyes stared down at Zhuo Fan in anger, "Young master Song, I never took you for an impatient man, that you can't even wait for two minutes. If you took that treasure away, the only thing that will happen is the destruction of the Song clan!"

"I know that, but you should also know this item is a headache for us third rate clans. The longer we have it the more dangerous it will be."

"Ha-ha-ha, young master Song is a wise man. Then please hand it over." Qin Caiqing smiled as she stepped forward.

Zhuo Fan took the box out and held it in his hand, his eyes staring into her eyes, ready to grasp her every reaction, "Overseer, you need to handle this carefully, lest it will come back to bite me. If it does, you'll have me to deal with."

"Hi-hi-hi, I didn't know that young master Song is so bold and so careful." Qin Caiqing giggled, but then her eyes flashed when she opened the box.

Zhuo Fan also noticed.

"Yes, this is Drifting Flowers Edifice Lord's treasure, Bodhi Root!" Iris Overseer nodded pleasantly, "Young master Song, you've done well!"

Zhuo Fan lifted an eyebrow as he gave her a deep look.

He was clear Qin Caiqing knew this thing was a fake, but pretended otherwise. Her aim was obvious, for him to steal the fake and not the real Bodhi Root.

All to deceive Vicious Pill King!

Just as he thought, an aged voice cackled when Iris Overseer spoke. Vicious Pill King floated next to her.

"Who are you?" Zhuo Fan faked surprise and retreated a step.

Snorting, Yan Song watched Zhuo Fan in contempt, "He-he-he, foul punk, you fought my disciple. Did you forget already? But that is only normal since you were unconscious."

"You hurt me?" Zhuo Fan put on a pondering look then shouted, "Oh, I know, when I was trashing that bastard Yan Fu so hard, a damn old coot jumped me. You're that son of a bitch?"

Yan Song's eyes flashed and his beard trembled from rage.

In the entire Tianyu Empire, who the hell would dare curse him?

But that was nothing compared to saying he jumped a kid. He was the number one alchemist in Pill King Hall, the Vicious Pill King. Once word got out he sneak attacked a Bone Tempering junior, his face would be thrown in the mud.

He rushed to amend this, "Punk, that was just to teach you a lesson."

"Humph, shameless geezer, admit you jumped me! You're so old and yet you and your disciple colluded against me from the start! Humph, so this is how Pill King Hall acts! Strength does come in numbers!" Zhuo Fan mocked, as if grieved from the injustice of it all.

Qin Caiqing laughed, while Yan Song was turning purple.

[This punk is too ridiculous. When did my disciple and I collude against him?] If this got out, he'd be the laughing stock of the empire.

The seven houses' disciples picking on other clans was a common occurrence. But if an elder joined too, and against a third rate clan no less, it would be utter humiliation.

Worse, there had yet to be anyone in the seven houses who did this.

"Old Yan, ease your anger. This is his character, he is quick to anger those around him. D-don't get angry..." Qin Caiqing advised Yan Song, but in the end, she had to hide her smile.

Glaring at her, Yan Song's towering rage only grew.

"Humph, damnable punk, you're dead anyway. Talk all you want!" Yan Song gnashed his teeth, his rage-filled eyes wiped the smile off Qin Caiqing's face, "Don't laugh and take it out!"

Qin Caiqing presented the box and Vicious Pill King opened it. His two eyes narrowed.

Bam!

Yan Song threw the box on the ground, crushing the Bodhi Root inside to pieces.

Qin Caiqing cried in shock, "Elder Yan, why?"

"It's a fake. That is no Bodhi Root!" Yan Song stared coldly at her.

Qin Caiqing jerked, her face baffled, "Fake... how? This Bodhi Root has always been safeguarded in the Treasure Pavilion. She is about to come out of seclusion and so it doesn't make sense. Unless..."

Qin Caiqing cast her suspicious eyes on Zhuo Fan, treading closer with killing intent, "Young master Song, I thought you knew when to retreat even if you are not the type of man that does so. I never took you for someone who would switch items."

"You doubt me?" Zhuo Fan put on a fearful face as he fled, ready to spread his wings.

He now had what he wanted and uncovered her ploy. She, a woman of power, didn't do it herself and used him, a stubborn Bone Tempering cultivator, so she could shift the blame on him.

Regardless if Yan Song was duped by the fake Bodhi Root or not, she would still shift the blame on him.

Yan Song would then blame her for her poor choice in men and would not tell her to go for the Bodhi Root again.

The Bodhi Root would be saved and she was free from Yan Song's coercion, and all at the low cost of a third rate clan's kid. Wasn't this a win-win situation?

Zhuo Fan snorted inside as his fist tightened.

Such a pity the one before her wasn't a mere Bone Tempering cultivator, but one who killed You Guiqi, the freak Zhuo Fan.

It wouldn't be long now. Chuchu would jump in and he would then get to kill this pair.

What was the Drifting Flowers Edifice's first Overseer, what was the Vicious Pill King? They were but a woman and a spineless coot who dabbed in poison.

[Killing them isn't going to be easy, but it will not be hard either.]

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with bloodthirst as he licked his lips in anticipation. As if he was a demon king prepared to engage in slaughter.

But then, something happened.

Qin Caiqing who was closing in, stopped in her tracks and launched a blue palm to Yan Song's chest.

Bam!

Among the loud explosion, there were even sounds of bones cracking. Yan Song was flung like a ragdoll into the air as he spat blood.

"Y-you dare betray me?" Yan Song crawled to his feet and pointed at her with rage and rancor.

Zhuo Fan watched her in a daze, his fists relaxing.

[What? Didn't Iris Overseer want me to take the fall?] Zhuo Fan was baffled finding his assessment wrong for the first time.

He sighed, [A woman's heart is like an ocean, unfathomably deep!]

His guess was the most beneficial to her. But her betrayal would not only make both sides suffer, but it may lead to them dying together!

"Humph, Qin Caiqing, don't forget, your life is in my hands. Do you want to die?" Vicious Pill King wiped the blood from his mouth as ice crystals formed on his chest.

Qin Caiqing lifted her head, her mind set, "Yan Song, get this straight. I am Drifting Flowers Edifices's first Overseer, Iris Overseer Qin Caiqing. I won't have you ruin Drifting Flowers Edifice even if I have to pay for it with my life."

Zhuo Fan was stunned.

Iris Overseer was usually calm and collected. The beautiful Overseer also did not use coarse language even against an opponent she hated. For some reason, he began to feel deep respect for her...

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Chapter 110, Drifting Flowers Edifice Lord, Chu Qingcheng

Vicious Pill King watched the proud Iris Overseer with a critical eye, savagery dripping from his voice, "Humph, a wench thinks she can kill me?"

"You will see soon enough! Your heart has directly received my Cold Jade Palm and your meridians must be freezing right about now. You have no way of using Rainbow Cloud Palm!"

Qin Caiqing's eyes flashed elated and prideful, "Yan Song, you've long got this coming. I may die from your poison but it will be without regrets!"

Qin Caiqing charged towards Yan Song, her palm glowing blue as she aimed for his chest.

Yan Song took a deep breath and staggered as he had to spit out more blood. Just as Qin Caiqing said, his Yuan Qi's flow was hindered. And yet, he found no reason to fear. His green beard trembled as he made an evil grin on his face.

Qin Caiqing did not even manage to reach him before she started to tremble and vomit out black blood. The black blood was so potent that it ate through the ground when it landed.

Iris Overseer swayed then fell.

Qin Caiqing couldn't understand what was going on.

"He-he-he, wench, don't you know who I am? You think you can attack me that easily?" Yan Song snorted, "Look at your hand."

Qin Caiqing brought her trembling hand to her eyes and discovered it had turned from white to purple.

"Ha-ha-ha, I am Vicious Pill King. Every inch of me's covered in devastating poison. You think the Rainbow Cloud Palm is the only one thing I use to go against another Profound Heaven expert like you?"

Yan Song laughed at the sky, his sharp eyes filled with murderous intent, "Humph, no one would fear me if that was the case. He-he, dumb broad, what a fool. I will kill you and get rid of future troubles!"

Despite being wounded, his palm had enough power to end a Profound Heaven expert's life.

Qin Caiqing was in despair, chewing her lip in hatred and remorse.

Zhuo Fan watched it all with a critical gaze. He didn't join in because he knew there was only one person who could save the Iris Overseer.

And sure enough, a white figure flew before the Vicious Pill King and struck.

Frowning, the Vicious Pill King redirected his attack towards the white hand of the newcomer.

Bam!

With a loud explosion jarring to the ears, Vicious Pill King stumbled ten feet back and spat blood. His hand was encased in ice.

The white figure landed next to Iris Overseer, her manner was filled with power and demanding respect from any who dared look at her.

"Sister Chuchu, why are you here?"

Zhuo Fan still had to fake he knew she was hiding nearby, "Were you always behind me?"

"Humph, you stole from Drifting Flowers Edifice and think I could not catch up?" Chuchu glared at Zhuo Fan.

Zhuo Fan was startled as he gave a pretending cry, "What? Sister Chuchu you're from Drifting Flowers Edifice? Which Overseer are you then?"

Zhuo Fan looked anywhere else but at her, like a child who knew he did something wrong. He tried to prove his innocence as he pointed at Qin Caiqing, "Sister Chuchu, it's not my fault, I was forced. It's her, she is your traitor. She is the one to blame, not me!"

Shaking her head, Chuchu held her forehead in anger, "You brat, you dare say this when you don't have the courage to take responsibility? You deserve to be punished!"

She then leaned over Qin Caiqing to check her wounds.

"It's... ruined..." Qin Caiqing lifted her heavy head with difficulty as tears streamed down, "Forgive me, I betrayed Drifting Flowers Edifice!"

Bam!

Vicious Pill King cracked the ice on his hand and glared at Chuchu, "Profound ranked martial art, Arcane Moon Art. Ha-ha-ha, Drifting Flowers Edifice Lord, Chu Qingcheng, you finally show yourself! How is your wound, I wonder. Would you like me to ease your pain?"

"What? Sister Chuchu, you're Drifting Flowers Edifice Lord, Chu Qingcheng?"

Zhuo Fan watched her beautiful figure in stunned silence. He wasn't faking it this time.

The scourge woman he met in the slums was actually Drifting Flowers Edifice Lord? What was she doing there?

Since he couldn't make heads or tails of it, he pushed this question aside. What upset Zhuo Fan even more was that Chu Qingcheng was called the number one beauty in the empire. And he did witness her visage once.

Who could have those impeccable features if not Chu Qingcheng? He never questioned her identity, making him doubt if his brain had a screw loose to be this foolish.

[But when did I become so foolish? It was when I saw Chuchu's face.]

Zhuo Fan sighed, even now he felt relaxed when he recalled that image. [To think a woman could actually possess such charm.] The him of before would never have imagined it possible.

Ignoring both of their gazes, Chu Qingcheng watched Qin Caiqing's wound and a bottle appeared in her hand.

She opened it and the sweet smell had the two people's eyes flash with greed!

Bodhi Jade Sap!

"Senior sister, I know how much you care for Drifting Flowers Edifice. Forgive me, I failed as a Lord and made you suffer." Chu Qingcheng moved the blue veil a bit and let a drop fall on Qin Caiqing's mouth.

Qin Caiqing's body began shining in a green hue, filled with endless vitality. Even the grass beneath her began to grow unchecked.

The poison on her hand had also retreated and wasn't long before it recovered its white color.

The greedy Yan Song and Zhuo Fan gulped, their eyes fixed on the bottle.

It was the second time he saw Bodhi Jade Sap's effect and its endless vitality left him in awe all the same!

[Ahh! Nooo! another drop ruined!]

Zhuo Fan lamented, considering whether or not to steal the bottle. This thought was on Yan Song's mind too!

"He-he-he, Bodhi Jade Sap is a legendary cure! How mystical!"

Vicious Pill King licked his lips, "Lord Chu, how about we make a deal? That hag is about to die and Drifting Flowers Edifice will collapse without you. Give me the Bodhi Root and I will give you Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote. It will ensure the survival of your Drifting Flowers Edifice."

"Humph, Bodhi Root is the basis of Drifting Flowers Edifice. Without it, Pill King Hall would run amok and Drifting Flowers Edifice would lose its place among the seven houses. Do you take me for a three-year-old, Yan Song?" Chu Qingcheng's eyes with bone-deep hatred, "And Grandmother's vengeance..."

"Ha-ha-ha, those old hags were narrow-minded. Served them right. Lord Chu, I advise against making the same mistake!" Vicious Pill King laughed in mockery.

Chu Qingcheng tightened her fists.

Iris Overseer gasped a few times and got up weakly. Her pale face glaring at Yan Song, "Qingcheng, I wounded him and now he can't use profound ranked martial art. Together, we can end this geezer."

"But senior sister, what of the poisoned overseers..."

Pain laced her gaze but soon her focus recovered. Iris Overseer said, "Everything is for Drifting Flowers Edifice's future, even the death of all overseers. Qingcheng, attack!"

Chu Qingcheng was still reticent as Qin Caiqing shouted, "Qingcheng, we will never get the chance to kill this old dog again. We won't get revenge for Grandmother!"

Chu Qingcheng woke up and her eyes became increasingly colder.

"Song Yu, stand aside!" Chu Qingcheng's bitter voice came out.

Zhuo Fan meekly got out of their way! He was now watching the bustle and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. None of them were on guard against the 2nd layer Bone Tempering cultivator.

[He-he-he, fight, fight! Die all of you and let yours truly reap the rewards.]

Zhuo Fan had a twisted grin.

Squinting, Vicious Pill King watched the two's determination and his hand rested on the gourd at his waist, "Lord Chu, think it through. Don't regret it later!"

"Humph, I will regret it for all my life if I don't kill you now!"

Chu Qingcheng snorted as she and Iris Overseer charged towards Yan Song. In this two against one, Yan Song, who couldn't use profound ranked martial art was at a disadvantage.

But he wasn't panicking, his knuckles were white as he gripped against his gourd.

Boom!

A sudden purple lightning struck, stopping the two women. Vicious Pill King frowned as he turned his head towards the newcomer...

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Chapter 111, Godeye Reemerges

"Who's there?" Chu Qingcheng and Qin Caiqing shouted.

"Ha-ha-ha, girls, did you already forget this old man after a few years?"

It was an old man in yellow, blind in one eye. A crow laid on his shoulder yet had eyes flickered with purple lightning.

He was Veiled Dragon Pavilion's Godeye Long Jiu, and his spirit animal, Soul Devouring Crow. The pair behind him were in Bone Tempering Stage, Long Kui and Long Jie.

Zhuo Fan was startled. He didn't think he'd meet familiar faces all the way over here.

"Uncle Jiu?" Chu Qingcheng and Qin Caiqing cried in joy. Vicious Pill King was frowning, despite his cold tone, "Didn't expect you to get your eye back, Godeye Long Jiu."

Long Jiu laughed, "Ha-ha-ha, it's all thanks to my little brother. I have regained my title and won't cower from the likes of you, Vicious Pill King."

Vicious Pill King's face twitched but his heart cursed to high heavens.

Godeye Long Jiu's recovery of his Purple Lightning Gold Eye was akin to meeting his archenemy. The Rainbow Cloud Palm had always been ineffective against Long Jiu.

After losing his eye, Long Jiu was downcast. So Yan Song didn't pay him any attention. But now, he was back.

Vicious Pill King squinted, his heart was in panic as his hand held the gourd tighter, "Long Jiu are you going to join the ladies against me?"

The ladies in question turned their expecting gazes at Long Jiu.

Long Jiu cast a furtive glance on Vicious Pill King's gourd then shook his head, "Yan Song, don't misunderstand. I came here to mediate. We are all guests in Drifting Flowers Edifice and should act like one."

"Ha-ha-ha, I admire your reasoning Elder Jiu. I will forgo the ladies' unreasonable act today. But they might not do the same."

Vicious Pill King rested easy knowing Long Jiu was out of this fight. His smile now turned to the ladies.

Chu Qingcheng gnashed her teeth and looked at Long Jiu with hope, but the latter only shook his head. She could only give up, "Humph, Yan Song, I'll let you off now, but don't you dare make trouble in Drifting Flowers City."

"He-he-he, that depends on how Lord Chu receives guests." Vicious Pill King snickered and flew away.

They all breathed easier seeing him leave. Even the ladies. They may have been shouting kill and attack but against an opponent like Yan Song, they were extremely tense.

"Uncle Jiu, why did you stop us? Did you forget Grandmother's revenge?" Qin Caiqing complained, but Chu Qingcheng grabbed her shoulder, "Senior sister, you misunderstood Uncle Jiu. He saved us."

Long Jiu sighed, his voice dignified, "Girls, I am the one who knows Vicious Pill King Yan Song the best. He is worse than You Guiqi. Fighting him would only end in you dying for nothing."

"But didn't I hurt him?" Qin Caiqing retorted.

Long Jiu spoke gravely, "Qing'er, did you notice his gourd?"

Qin Caiqing shook her head.

"We have met countless times but never saw him carry one until now. He must be carrying it for some ulterior motive. Vicious Pill King is rampant and arrogant, but his heart is so spiteful that not even You Guiqi dared mess with him. You were at grave risk today!"

"But Uncle Jiu, is there no way we can deal with that old dog?" Qin Caiqing wasn't willing to give up.

Long Jiu smoothened his beard, "Hard to say, unless... My little brother was here. He is sure to have a way."

"Your little brother?" Chu Qingcheng and Qin Caiqing asked.

Zhuo Fan raised an eyebrow, [He can't mean me, right?]

Long Kui's mood was foul at Long Jiu's words, "Uncle Jiu, why bring that brat again? He only killed You Guiqi and yet, you brag about him on and on for the past few months! Many from Veiled Dragon Pavilion are starting to think you aren't just brothers!"

"He-he-he, little Kui, are you jealous? Who in your generation could have accomplished the feat of killing that rotten bastard? Even taking him as my ancestor wouldn't be an exaggeration. What's more, we became brothers."

"Uncle Jiu, are you talking about that rumored... vile spawn, Zhuo Fan?" Chu Qingcheng raised an eyebrow.

Long Jiu nodded, "Chuchu, you are an exceptional genius, rarest of rare. But my little brother is no weaker than you!"

"Humph, what genius, he only knows violence. Killing wherever he goes!" Long Kui spoke in a sour tone.

Long Jie shook his head, "Little Kui, you are wrong. Whether you want to or not, you have to admit that Zhuo Fan is better than us in every way. He may be a bit unhinged, true, but his talent matches the seven houses' six dragons. And when it comes to killing, no one of our generations can compare."

"Uh, little Jie got it right!" Long Jiu praised. But Long Kui came before Chu Qingcheng, not at all pleased, "Humph, what are you talking about? There's no way that brat can compare with sister Qingcheng!"

[Yep, not right at all. Yours truly has always been keeping low! I've been in Drifting Flowers City for days and have I run amok even once? No!]

Zhuo Fan was dissatisfied, [Aren't I always low-key? I normally kill without stating my name?]

Yet it perplexed him how, even with that, his name was known in the entire Tianyu Empire as a demon spawn! [The only one that I am known to have killed was You Guiqi, which happened as though it was on a grand display, so of course everyone knew about me from that incident. But the rest should not be tied to my name.]

He thought of himself as a rational and calm person but to others, his every move, every gesture, was filled with arrogance!

Chu Qingcheng held Long Kui's hand then looked at Long Jiu in hope, "Uncle Jiu, Zhuo Fan truly has the power to kill Vicious Pill King?"

Long Jiu shook his head, "I am not sure, but from what I can guess, Vicious Pill King's ending would only come at the hands of my little brother Zhuo Fan."

"I'm starting to get curious about this matchless genius." Chu Qingcheng's eyes roamed around in thought.

Next, Chu Qingcheng settled Long Jiu's party in the Drifting Flowers Edifice. Zhuo Fan wanted to use the chance to bail but before he could do anything, Chu Qingcheng grabbed him by the neck and dragged him back to Drifting Flowers Edifice like a chicken.

The moon hung above in the quiet night. Many guests were resting, except for a lamp still burning in a small room.

Five people were gathered, Chu Qingcheng, Peony Overseer, Iris Overseer, Xiao Dandan, and Zhuo Fan. In other words, Zhuo Fan was the only outsider here.

[I'm finished, kaput!]

Zhuo Fan lamented. One wrong move and three Profound Heaven experts would jump him.

Peony Overseer was watching Zhuo Fan with suspicion, [Why has the Edifice Lord brought a nobody to Drifting Flowers Edifice?] While Xiao Dandan's eyes rested on Zhuo Fan for a long long time.

Zhuo Fan humiliated her once, but for some odd reason, she didn't hold it against him.

"What are you looking at? Never seen a man before?" Zhuo Fan was annoyed and snapped. Xiao Dandan shivered and stepped back.

"Impudent!"

Peony Overseer's fiery temper broke out as she cursed him. "You rude brat, where do you come from that allows you to speak like that in my Drifting Flowers Edifice? Don't you know where you are?"

"Who cares, just don't let that crafty and arrogant lass have such a hot gaze for this handsome man."

"W-what hot gaze?" Peony Overseer was startled.

Pointing at Xiao Dandan, Zhuo Fan stuck out his chin and cursed, "Look at her eyes, they are clearly undressing me. Can't you see me wearing clothes? If that's not a hot gaze I don't know what is!"

The three ladies spat, finally knowing what hot gaze meant, their faces turn red. Xiao Dandan was even more so, lowering her head in shame.

[This brat is too vulgar. What hot gaze? I only looked at you twice!]

But as Xiao Dandan was getting redder by the second, and was close to burning up.

Chu Qingcheng glared, "Song Yu, stop being rude!"

"Yes, sister Chuchu!"

Zhuo Fan changed into an obedient child next to Chu Qingcheng. He knew her weakness, that she couldn't stand to reprimand him like this.

"At last I found you Song Yu! You were the one who picked on my disciple!"

But Peony Overseer's temper flared once again at the name. Zhuo Fan was fearless now that Chu Qingcheng was there to hold his hand as he shouted, "So what if did? Who told her to pick on my woman? Can't you see how rotten her morals are?"

Peony Overseer shivered. Of course she knew the truth, but she didn't think this brat was so pigheaded that he dared argue with her in the Drifting Flowers Edifice.

She knew she was wrong. She was willing to let the matter slide, with just a small payback. However, she was humiliated instead.

"Damn rotten punk, see if I don't beat you to death!"

Peony Overseer was ready to strike but the one to stop her wasn't Chu Qingcheng. She watched the hand, stunned.

It belonged to none other than Xiao Dandan.

She was pleading with her eyes, to let the rotten punk go! Peony Overseer was perplexed.

"My dear disciple, didn't he humiliate you, twice? Why are you defending him?"

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Chapter 112, The Strongest House, Regent Estate

"Don't tell me..."

Peony Overseer suddenly cried, "You fancy him?!"

This got all of them jumping, with even Zhuo Fan's eyelid twitching as he said in haste, "Hey, think what you like but be careful of what you spout! You're Peony Overseer for crying out loud, you can't just go around spreading rumors and damaging my name..."

"Do you even have a reputation? Why do you sound like you're the one losing out if my disciple likes you?"

Peony Overseer was furious. How could Xiao Dandan like a reckless and impudent brat like him? But now his words set her temper off.

[What's wrong about my disciple that you find unacceptable to you?]

In a fit of anger, Peony Overseer's rage shifted from her blind disciple, to enforcing marriage on Zhuo Fan. By the looks of it, it may even come to fighting if Zhuo Fan kept refusing.

Xiao Dandan was red as a tomato, but was also let down by Zhuo Fan's reaction. She cried, "Master, that's not what I mean. Stop rambling!"

"Then what do you mean?" Peony Overseer looked with askance at her and resentful of her attitude.

Looking up at Zhuo Fan, Xiao Dandan muttered, "I only thought he is a rarity in this world, sticking out for that lady and standing against Drifting Flowers Edifice. The world actually has another man willing to sacrifice himself for a woman."

"Him? A good man?" Peony Overseer mocked, "It is fine to be hot-blooded and reckless if he had Zhuo Fan's strength, but he is weak and still has the nerve to offend the seven houses. He is just suicidal!"

"If he had offended any other house besides Drifting Flowers Edifice, he'd be lying cold on the ground by now. He was fortunate to meet Edifice Lord who saved him, or Yan Fu would've killed him!"

"Yes, last time it was Qingcheng who saved young master Song!" Iris Overseer raised an eyebrow.

Chu Qingcheng nodded, "That was pure coincidence. Once I got back, I would mention it to Peony Overseer and to reign in her disciple, not to stir up trouble. Drifting Flowers City is the only place where women have the last say in things. I don't want for women to fight against each other here."

"Yes, I will be sure to reign her in!" Peony Overseer rushed to make a bow to Chu Qingcheng and pulled Xiao Dandan to do the same.

Chu Qingcheng dismissed it, "It's all in the past. We have gathered here tonight for one purpose, the theft of the Treasure Pavilion."

Chu Qingcheng turned to Iris Overseer and Zhuo Fan, "You two, explain what happened."

Zhuo Fan was indifferent in his retelling, yet he didn't miss a detail, [I am the victim here. Go punish her!]

Peony Overseer and Xiao Dandan cried in shock. Who'd have conceived it possible Iris Overseer was a traitor?

Chu Qingcheng saw anger in their eyes and urged, "Don't be anxious, Iris Overseer hasn't truly defected from Drifting Flowers Edifice. She knew I carried the Bodhi Root with me at all times yet still sent Song Yu to steal it."

The two calmed down somewhat, but Peony Overseer still said, "Senior sister, why have you been saying silent? I'm dying to know your side of the story!"

Rolling her eyes, Iris Overseer sighed, "To be honest, Yan Song struck me with the Rainbow Cloud Palm when I was returning to Drifting Flowers City three months back."

"What, you're also poisoned?" Peony Overseer was worried, "That means close to half of our overseers are poisoned."

"Humph, half?"

Shaking her head, Iris Overseer had a hardened expression, "Of the 15 overseers, that old dog got to 14, forcing them to obey his orders. The only one safe is you, Peony Overseer."

[What?]

The shock was understandable. It wasn't long before Vicious Pill King got his hands on the entire Drifting Flowers Edifice!

"So that's why Yan Fu kept saying Drifting Flowers Edifice is his..." Xiao Dandan recoiled two steps and Peony Overseer found it hard to even swallow, her despair was obvious.

Iris Overseer also sighed out of frustration, "He told me of this secret only to have better control over me. I decided then that I'd rather have him killed than seizing Drifting Flowers Edifice. That is why I have been hiding my intention so I can strike him when he told me to steal the Bodhi Root."

"You didn't make me steal a fake to fool him, but to shift his anger on me and attack him from behind when his guard was down? Iris Overseer, what a great plan." Zhuo Fan analyzed.

Iris Overseer looked at him in shock, "Young master Song, I never knew you were so smart! Not at all like the stubborn oaf you appear to be!"

"Uh, just a wild guess, ha, ha, ha..." Zhuo Fan scratched his head and faked clueless once again. [What a blunder!]

The Song Yu he played was an impulsive and reckless man, not one capable of deep though. Putting together a sly mind and a strong body what would you get? Zhuo Fan!

Luck was with him this time, as they thought it was odd. However, they were not suspicious of his identity. An oaf of a brat who hit the nail on the head sometimes.

"Senior sister, sorry for being hard on you." Peony Overseer took Iris Overseer's hand as tears welled in her eyes.

Qin Caiqing patted her hand and chuckled. These two women had sacrificed much for Drifting Flowers Edifice and took all the responsibility on their shoulders.

"Senior aunt, did you succeed in your attack on that old dog?" Xiao Dandan asked.

Zhuo Fan sneered at this, "Oh please, and here I thought I was one who disliked using his brains, but in fact, yours seems nonexistent. If she succeeded, you'd be toasting right now. Why would you all be wailing and sobbing here at this point?"

Xiao Dandan blushed and glared at him.

Zhuo Fan's callous words broke the sisterly mood between Peony Overseer and Iris Overseer. Their tears just went and disappeared.

"Rotten punk, can't you read the mood? I should've known better than to expect delicacy from you." Peony Overseer flared again as she ranted.

The others broke in a small smile while Zhuo Fan rolled his eyes.

"Peony Overseer, don't mind him. Song Yu speaks before he thinks!" Chu Qingcheng glared at him then acted like a big sister, trying to make amends for her little brother.

Peony Overseer noticed this subtle difference quickly. With Edifice Lord protecting him, she no longer pursued it, and her face changed into worry, "Edifice Lord, with how can senior sister put it, Drifting Flowers Edifice is in imminent danger. What do we do now?"

Chu Qingcheng took a deep breath, her eyes flickering, "We aren't nearly enough to deal with Pill King Hall. We need to find outside help!"

"From the other houses?" Iris Overseer shook her head, "From the start, the seven houses only cared about themselves. Even Uncle Jiu, who is closest to us, was fearful of Vicious Pill King. Who would stick their necks out for us?"

"Yes, no man can be trusted!" Peony Overseer had only hatred from being abandoned in her chambers.

Her eyes flickering with wisdom, Chu Qingcheng showed a smile, "Others may not be trustworthy, but he will surely help us!"

"Who?" Was the unanimous question.

Chu Qingcheng grinned, "The strongest house!"

Their eyes shined as hope was rekindled. Though Zhuo Fan frowned and muttered, "The Regent Estate!"

Among the Seven Noble Houses, everyone was arrogant, everyone thought highly of themselves. But there was one house that was recognized as the strongest, the one who stood above them for the past thousand years, the Regent Estate.

The Regent Estate's power was three levels higher than any house among them.

No house alone could defeat it.

Who'd have thought that the Regent Estate's men were also joining in the Hundred Pill Meeting? Though their numbers and strength were unknown. If the rumors were true about its power, he'd had better tread lightly.

With such a strong crowd in Drifting Flowers City, one wrong move would spell damnation.

Sighing, Zhuo Fan clenched his fists. He needed to get the Bodhi Jade Sap fast and leave even faster. From here on out, it was only going to get worse.

Zhuo Fan's eyes drifted to Chu Qingcheng's storage ring.

She also noticed Zhuo Fan was worried and smiled, "Song Yu, stay in Drifting Flowers Edifice."

"What?!" Zhuo Fan jerked, though his heart was leaping in joy. This would make it more convenient for him.

Chu Qingcheng walked before him and patted his shoulder with tender feelings, "No need to worry, I know you fear Vicious Pill King's revenge. But he won't dare kill anyone in Drifting Flowers Edifice."

She then left with the overseers after telling Xiao Dandan to prepare him a room.

Zhuo Fan stood stunned, feeling somewhat warm and fuzzy inside. He had always been cooking up schemes on how to get that Bodhi Jade Sap, maybe even killing someone if he had to.

But Chu Qingcheng's constant care for him left him hesitant. [Should I steal the Bodhi Jade Sap...]

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Chapter 113, Royally Arrogant, Huangpu Qingyun

The night passed and Zhuo Fan walked out of his room. He was welcomed by the warm sun, yet his eyes were cold as ever.

After a thorough analysis, he came to the decision to strike. Tonight was his best chance to steal her Bodhi Jade Sap, when Chu Qingcheng was alone.

The best case was if it all went smoothly. If not, it couldn't be helped. He wouldn't shirk from killing if it'd get him the medicine.

He was the Demonic Emperor and not even a woman could stand in his way.

Zhuo Fan took steps towards Chu Qingcheng's room. From his gait, one could even see a certain growing resolve.

But the closer he got, the stranger he felt. Why were there so few people in Drifting Flowers Edifice? Not even the guests were around.

"Make way, make way!"

A rash and urgent yell came from a figure in red moving with great haste. It was none other than Xiao Dandan.

Thinking for a moment, he flashed before her.

Thump!

Xiao Dandan seemed to have smacked into an iron wall and fell to the ground, bringing sharp pain to her butt and head.

"Who is so blind that dares block me..." Xiao Dandan cursed but she choked on her words when she saw Zhuo Fan.

Eying her coldly, Zhuo Fan snorted, "Did you say something about a blind man?"

Lowering her head and blushing a bit, Xiao Dandan went by him.

Zhuo Fan was even more perplexed. [She used to be so feisty? So, why did she suddenly change?] He grabbed her arm.

Xiao Dandan shuddered and her cheeks reddened evenmore.

Zhuo Fan ignored her state and said, "Where are you going? Why is Drifting Flowers Edifice so quiet? Where is everyone?"

"Uh, that's because they went to see young master Huangpu."

Zhuo Fan frowned then cried, "Huangpu... a man from the Regent Estate? Why is he here so soon?"

"The one who came is Regent Estate's second young master, Huangpu Qingyun. I heard he and Edifice Lord were childhood sweethearts. With him here, Vicious Pill King will not dare to cause trouble."

Zhuo Fan's heart shook.

[Son of a bitch! I just decided to attack and here comes an expert. And did he have to be Chu Qingcheng's childhood sweetheart too?]

[How the hell am I supposed to do anything with those two sticking like glue?]

Zhuo Fan gnashed his teeth and looked on murderously, "Let's go. I want to see the oh so great young master Huangpu."

"Great? How can you be so rude to Regent Estate's young master..." Xiao Dandan was going to advise him to be restraint, but Zhuo Fan pulled her along before she could say anything.

Xiao Dandan looked at their hands but did not say a word. Though, it could be because her heart was skipping like a deer. Zhuo Fan's unbridled and rash attitude made her heart jump for the first time for a man.

She was wishing for time to stop right now.

However, with the two's cultivation, they soon arrived at the entrance of Drifting Flowers Edifice. They looked on towards the crowd. Zhuo Fan let go of his hand, which made the young miss feel a sense of loss.

[Blast it! This damn Regent Estate is too impressive! They are like emperors! To have the other houses welcome them like this!]

The scene shocked him.

From first to third rate clans, all kneeled at the side of the main avenue. And those of powerful clans stood around the Drifting Flowers Edifice's entrance in welcome.

This was Drifting Flowers Edifice's headquarters, yet the procession was even grander than the Edifice Lord's.

Was Regent Estate so strong that it could intimidate the other six?

It had to. With how arrogant and belittling the seven houses were, they would never accept such a loss of face.

His face turned grave, Zhuo Fan's eyes were like a hawk, watching further ahead.

In the middle of the street, a yellow sedan chair appeared before his eyes.

This sedan chair was plain, with but four people lifting it. They were all Profound Heaven experts!

[Curses to high heaven! Profound Heaven experts?! The other six houses have them as elders and you freaking use them as porters?]

Zhuo Fan's face twitched and his fist tightened. Though the four Profound Heaven cultivators just broke through, that was beside the point. What was important, was that Regent Estate's power was incredible.

The rumors didn't do them justice. They weren't just three levels stronger!

The other six houses were swept by fear! When the sedan chair was nearby, they walked forward and bowed.

"Ha-ha-ha, I am but a young and uncultured junior, how could I trouble the six houses' elders to welcome me?"

Candid laughter came from the sedan, strong and resounding, reaching everyone's ears. The heavy power that it contained gave the impression of a mountain pressing on their hearts, robbing one of all power to resist.

This was a true higher power, backed by soul pressure.

Under the youth's kind words, all trembled, as they knew the words were backed by arrogance. He came out like this before the elders just to show off his power.

They had to admit, however, that no one here could match against his soul pressure. Not even the elders of the houses.

The strength of one's soul in the Profound Heaven Stage was a sign of one's potential and power in the Radiant Stage. No one was pleased but they had to give credit where it was due. Regent Estate would soon have another incredible expert.

His power has been promised to be no less than Jade Flute Divine Sword, Fang Qiubai in the future.

Everyone was putting on serious faces, with only Chu Qingcheng lifting her head, pleased. He was someone she invited. The stronger he was, the more intimidating he was, the more capable he was to help Drifting Flowers Edifice.

"Qingyun, we haven't seen each other for ten years and yet you've become so strong. I may no longer be your match." Chu Qingcheng smiled.

"Ha-ha-ha, Qingcheng, don't tease me. I would never dare hurt you."

Laughing, the silk of the sedan chair rose and an elegant and handsome man in his twenties came out. The flicker in his eyes was far stronger than those possessed by the elders, and he also had a golden glow around him too.

[2nd layer of Profound Heaven, a body cultivator!] Zhuo Fan squinted.

Zhuo Fan managed to kill You Guiqi so easily because that man was a mere schemer. He did not have an unyielding body to brave through any army.

However, this Profound Heaven body cultivator was a headache to deal with. And that wasn't the least of it...

Zhuo Fan sighed and looked at Hell Valley's 5th elder. He noticed some time ago that this elder also had a version of the Diamond Body.

Not even Zhuo Fan could handle two body cultivators.

[Things are getting complicated...] Zhuo Fan clicked his tongue.

Xiao Dandan thought he was worried about Drifting Flowers Edifice and consoled him, "I didn't take you for such a kind man, one to worry for our sake. But don't worry, with young master Huangpu Qingyun, the Vicious Pill King will have to obediently give up the antidote."

[Humph, who the hell cares about you!]

He shook his head, but his eyes flashed when he gazed at Huangpu Qingyun.

[He isn't an easy man to deal with!]

For the first time in his life, a tremor ran through Huangpu Qingyun, and he turned his attention in Zhuo Fan's direction.

Seeing him with Xiao Dandan, he squinted, "Qingcheng, since when does Drifting Flowers Edifice welcomes men?"

Chu Qingcheng also looked at Zhuo Fan and spoke with amusement, "He is a son-in-law of ours. Don't you know Drifting Flowers Edifice had men marrying in?"

Raising an eyebrow, Huangpu Qingyun nodded, "To marry into the Drifting Flowers Edifice, he must be a man of greatness. I wonder when I will have that honor too."

Huangpu Qingyun was beaming, but Chu Qingcheng rolled her eyes, with a hint of red on her cheeks.

Huangpu Qingyun laughed harder at this, while the elders strained their expressions. [Even for a second young master of Regent Estate, he is too freakin' arrogant. He dares give us the cold shoulder to flirt with the Edifice Lord right in front of us?]

"Humph, I would rather train right now!"

Xie Tianyang left but Jian Suifeng pulled him back. Huangpu Qingyun then smiled at him, "You must be Sword Marquise Abode's second young master. My, my, you have such manners!"

Xie Tianyang didn't care and Jian Suifeng had to make amends, "Forgive him. The second young master, Tianyang, is but a haughty child that I have failed to educate. Please overlook this."

"It's alright. Young master Xie must be an impulsive man. I would like to befriend many such people!"

Huangpu Qingyun walked to Xie Tianyang and rested his hand on his shoulder.

"Second young master!" Jian Suifeng was panicking.

Huangpu Qingyun gave a reassuring glance then smiled brightly at Xie Tianyang, although his tone was frosty, "I like straightforward people like young master Xie the most. I would've grown tired if all I saw were fawning types, ha-ha-ha..."

The moment Huangpu Qingyun's hand touched Xie Tianyang's shoulder, he felt an overwhelming pain spread through his body. He could not move. Only managing to gnash his teeth from pain and stand straight as an arrow. Pleased with the 'lesson', Huangpu Qingyun let go and laughed as he left with a group of fawners behind him.

Jian Suifeng sighed, "Tianyang, why do you act like this? I told you that Regent Estate's men are proficient in grasping the hearts of the people. Anyone who disobeys them suffers in the end."

"8th elder, I now understand Ning'er's feelings at that time. I never knew the Sword Marquise Abode would see this day!"

Sweat was dripping down Xie Tianyang's face, "I will remember this Huangpu Qingyun. The day will come when I will pay in kind!"

Jian Suifeng shook his head.

For thousands of years, Regent Estate stood atop the seven houses. [Even if you are unwilling, all you can do is bear it.]

While this scene played out, none of them noticed Zhuo Fan standing in a corner, watching closely. His eyes were cold and his fists were clenched.

"Song Yu, what's wrong? Your face is scary." Xiao Dandan asked.

Zhuo Fan shook his head, "Nothing. What will you do if your sisters are picked on?"

She watched him, amazed. Hearing a mild tone from him for the first time, "Depends on who it is. I will take some of my sisters to deal with normal people, or tell my master if it involves the seven houses."

"Humph, what will be the point of that?" Zhuo Fan squinted as he showed naked killing intent, "I, on the other hand, will crush anyone to dust for picking on my brother!"

His icy tone left Xiao Dandan shivering. She looked as if she didn't recognize him...

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Chapter 114, Hints of Ambition

Drifting Flowers Edifice's guest hall was packed with delicacies and food for a feast. Huangpu Qingyun arrived with a crowd of retainers and sat in the seat of honor. It was the seat reserved for the leader.

His action implied crass and open disrespect for Drifting Flowers Edifice. It could be even deemed as provocation.

However, people found Huangpu Qingyun's act normal, treating him like an emperor. Chu Qingcheng didn't mind at all. Now that he sat there, it wouldn't be long before he would help them.

"Elders, please take a seat. Don't be shy!"

Huangpu Qingyun acted as the host and gestured to the four Profound Heaven experts carrying his sedan.

As they sat along with the guests, there seemed to be one table empty.

Huangpu Qingyun asked the obvious, "Why is there an empty table? Was the table count wrong and the servers left it as so?"

Clear of his intention, Vicious Pill King snickered evilly, "Second young master, it belongs to Sword Marquise Abode. He must be running late with important matters. If it is irksome, second young master, we might as well remove it."

Everyone watched him coldly. Vicious Pill King was simply adding insult to injury.

Everyone in the hall saw Huangpu Qingyun attack Xie Tianyang from getting on his bad side. It was obvious that Xie Tianyang was now taking care of his wound and did not come.

They all guessed that this second young master was still irritated and brought up this topic.

[It is fine if you don't want to irk the second young master, but as a man from the seven houses, must you go so far to pour oil over the fire and present the chance to shame Sword Marquise Abode?]

And Huangpu Qingyun wasn't one to miss it, "Elder Yan is right. The empty table is bothersome. Remove it from sight."

"Second young master, Sword Marquise Abode is one of the seven houses. Even absent, their table should remain. Sir's conduct of disgracing them might earn Sword Marquise Abode's displeasure!" Long Jiu stood up, no longer having the patience to sit by and watch.

Vicious Pill King squinted, "And? You think the Sword Marquise Abode would start a war over a table?"

"This is not a matter of boldness, but the seven houses' sanctity. The Seven Noble Houses shouldn't hold each other in such contempt."

"Humph, nice speech. Then let me ask you, Elder Jiu, in whose domain again did my elders get killed?" This time, it was Hell Valley's 5th elder who laughed coldly.

"He-he-he, I have no problems with anyone if no one gives me problems. Hell Valley dug its own grave. You got yourself to blame for that."

"What did you say you blind old dog?" 5th elder snapped and slapped the table. Long Jiu squinted, staring back without fear.

The feast had become a ticking time bomb ready to explode.

They would've long had trade blows if not for this place being Drifting Flowers Edifice.

"People, please calm down. This is neither Veiled Dragon Pavilion nor Hell Valley. It is not a stage for you to settle your grudges." Lin Zitian wiped his sweat, as he urged, "If not for Drifting Flowers Edifice, then for the second younger master. Restrain yourselves."

The two turned their attention to Huangpu Qingyun.

He was smiling slightly, but his eyes were anything but pleased! As if to remind them this was his welcoming feast. [You dare cause trouble at my feast?]

The two muttered and cupped their hands towards him before sitting back down.

Huangpu Qingyun laughed, "That's better. The seven houses are one big happy family. There's no need to argue over a table. Moreover, this is Drifting Flowers Edifice, and it is their decision if the table stays or not."

Huangpu Qingyun turned his stare to Chu Qingcheng, who nodded, "Sword Marquise Abode is Drifting Flowers Edifice's guest and should have a table!"

Frowning slightly, Huangpu Qingyun's eyes flashed with disappointment, but laughed nonetheless, "All will be done as Qingcheng said. This is your domain after all!"

"Thank you Qingyun!" Chu Qingcheng nodded curtly, not detecting Huangpu Qingyun's change in expression.

Meanwhile, the Vicious Pill King had an evil smile at her expense.

[Humph, dumb broad! You have no clue of the second young master's intention. Drifting Flowers Edifice deserves what's coming to it!]

"Then the table will stay!" He declared.

But when Huangpu Qingyun saw two figures passing by, he smirked, "However, it's only an empty table. The two outside, how about you come join me for a drink?"

Zhuo Fan and Xiao Dandan were about to go to their rooms when they heard his shout.

Xiao Dandan was distraught over what to do and looked at Zhuo Fan since the guest hall was filled with elders. This was something the cherished disciple of Peony Overseer had never participated in.

Then, she secretly laughed at her as she took a look at Zhuo Fan

If she, a Drifting Flowers Edifice disciple panicked, what about him? Who was a third rate clan's young master?

Meanwhile, Zhuo Fan was completely opposite. He was cool as a cucumber, taking her hand as he walked with a steady gait.

[Does this man fear no one?]

Not her master, not her senior aunt, not even Regent Estate's second young master, Huangpu Qingyun. In a blink, Xiao Dandan was charmed as she looked at Zhuo Fan.

She didn't seem to wake up from her charmed state even when they were standing in the middle of the guest hall. Her lovestruck gaze was there, open for all to see!

Two sudden killing glares landed on the two. Xiao Dandan shuddered and found one to be from Merry Woods's Lin Tianyu seated next to Lin Zitian.

The other from Yan Fu sitting next to Vicious Pill King.

Their lips moved yet, no words came out. But the word they mimicked was the same, slut.

They would've long shouted curses if it were not for Huangpu Qingyun's presence.

Sizing the couple up, Huangpu Qingyun laughed, "What a perfect match. Could you introduce yourselves?"

"Uh, I am Xiao Dandan from Peony Edifice. Greetings second young master!" Xiao Dandan was tense in her greeting.

Zhuo Fan raised an eyelid and stated, "Son Yu from the Song clan, a third rate clan of Nightrain City!"

"Eh, third rate?"

Huangpu Qingyun raised an eyebrow, "Such a rare occurrence for a third rate clan young master to become Drifting Flowers Edifice's son in law. People, please sit there!"

[The hell, son in law? When have I become... Drifting Flowers Edifice's son in law?]

Zhuo Fan was in deep thought to only be jerked awake by Xiao Dandan, who had reddened cheeks.

Chu Qingcheng stood at once, "Qingyun, you can't! That is Sword Marquise Abode's table. It is not for juniors!"

"Yes, second young master, they do not qualify to sit there!"

Peony Overseer stood as well, paid her respect to Huangpu Qingyun, then berated the two, "What are you two standing around for? Leave!"

Huangpu Qingyun waved his hand, his face became gloomy, "Qingcheng, I agreed to not take Sword Marquise Abode's table, but now, I can't even have two guests? You are slighting me."

Chu Qingcheng stammered. She watched Huangpu Qingyun's cold face and realized she no longer knew him.

Zhuo Fan understood at once. If a third rate clan young master and Drifting Flowers Edifice's disciple took that table, it would bring utter humiliation to Sword Marquise Abode!

Huangpu Qingyun was doing it on purpose, differentiating between those who fawned over him and those who disregarded him.

The problem revolved around a mere table, but it was an allusion to a question of obedience.

[Looks like Regent Estate's people are a cut above the six houses, and so is their appetite. They want to unify the seven houses!]

[I need to move fast and secure some elders for the Luo clan.]

[When the seven houses unite, the Tianyu Empire will be plunged into chaos.]

Zhuo Fan didn't wait for their argument to finish as he already sat at the table.

The people were stunned. [What gall the brat has. This will be a shame for Sword Marquise Abode.]

"Kid, you better be careful where you sit, lest you invite death!" Long Jiu warned him with a cold eye.

Zhuo Fan watched him calmly, "Grandpa Jiu, be careful to not have your clan ruined with what you say!"

The people were twitching. [He doesn't have just gall, he's mad. He even threatened Veiled Dragon Pavilion's Long Jiu.]

Only Huangpu Qingyun watched Zhuo Fan with admiration besides shock.

He could now see how a third rate clan young master became Drifting Flowers Edifice's son in law.

Long Jiu's eye shivered from emotion and shock. After a long time, he cupped his hands in gratitude, "Thank you young master for reminding me!"

Then sat quietly.

This caused an even bigger shock. Not only was Huangpu Qingyun and his experts startled, even Long Jie and Long Kui next to Long Jiu were perplexed.

The grand Elder Jiu of Veiled Dragon Pavilion was cowed by a nameless brat. [How is this possible?]

But no one noticed Long Jiu was moved to tears. His Soul Devouring Crow was also flapping its wings in excitement...

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Chapter 115, Isolated

Watching the Soul Devouring Crow's jubilation, Zhuo Fan perked the corner of his mouth, knowing that Long Jiu recognized him. After all, he used to address Long Jiu with 'Grandpa Jiu' the first time they met.

Furthermore, unlike those that addressed him as 'Grandpa Jiu' , Zhuo Fan's haughty tone made it undoubtedly clear to Long Jiu as to who he was.

None of the people there understood what happened. Their eyes darting from one to another in hesitation.

A third rate clan kid dared speak nonsense to a Veiled Dragon Pavilion's elder – odd. The elder in question not only did not rebuke but looked relaxed – odder.

On top of that, there seemed to be some underlying meaning in it, which was baffling to them.

This cast many doubts upon the guests. But before they could pry, a sneer resounded, "Humph, Drifting Flowers Edifice is so thoughtful to let some pipsqueak have a table!"

To everyone's shock, Xie Tianyang had been standing at the entrance, unbeknown to them. Meanwhile, Jian Suifeng's face had turned ashen.

The exclusion of Sword Marquise Abode from the seven houses' feast was utter humiliation.

Chu Qingcheng cried, urging Zhuo Fan, "Who told you to sit? Leave at once!"

"Qingcheng, did you forget? It was I who invited them!" Huangpu Qingyun smiled at her, but his deeper meaning pricked at Sword Marquise Abode, "Isn't it a waste to have an empty table? I have welcomed the two disciples to make better use of it. It is not a place for a dog to sit in after all."

"Humph, since the second young master does not put Sword Marquise Abode in his eyes, we shall be taking our leave then. Farewell!" Xie Tianyang waved his sleeve and left.

This time, Jian Suifeng didn't stop him, going after him with a stern face. There was no compromise when it came to the matter of Sword Marquise Abode's dignity, even if it meant offending the other six houses.

Chu Qingcheng became anxious.

It was Huangpu Qingyun who did this, but Drifting Flowers Edifice was the host. With Xie Tianyang returning humiliated, wouldn't Sword Marquise Abode put all the blame on Drifting Flowers Edifice?

In this moment of crisis, Drifting Flowers Edifice should be making friends, not offending others left and right.

"Young master Xie, please wait. This is the fault of our Drifting Flowers Edifice, please forgive me! I will be arranging a table shortly to apologize!" Chu Qingcheng cried in panic.

Xie Tianyang paused and turned. Chu Qingcheng was willing to lower herself and apologize. This was enough for Sword Marquise Abode to keep their dignity.

It wouldn't be proper to be obstinate.

However, noticing Huangpu Qingyun's mocking grin, Xie Tianyang's anger flared and spoke coldly, "Edifice Lord Chu, since you have the powerful Regent Estate to lean on, you needn't degrade yourself. I am unfortunate to say that the small and meager Sword Marquise Abode cannot accept your apology!"

Xie Tianyang left this time for good.

Chu Qingcheng sighed.

How could she not get his meaning? Drifting Flowers Edifice chose to rely on Regent Estate in their hour of most desperate need, this in turn alienated the other houses.

She didn't know if this was the right path, but she began to feel that Drifting Flowers Edifice was becoming more and more isolated. Even their long time friend, Long Jiu, could only sigh at this.

If she couldn't even preserve the dignity of her guests, what's to have them return a second time?

Huangpu Qingyun was immensely pleased and showed it in his smile. His eyes drifted to Vicious Pill King who nodded and showed a crafty glint.

Zhuo Fan took it all in and cried inside [Damn it! This is Huangpu Qingyun's plan! To isolate Drifting Flowers Edifice!]

When Drifting Flowers Edifice was gone, the next to follow would be Sword Marquise Abode and Veiled Dragon Pavilion who refused to acknowledge their might. And when the seven houses were under one banner, the Luo clan would fall.

Zhuo Fan squinted his eyes as he yelled, "Brother Xie, there are more seats here! If you do not mind, let's squeeze together and join the feast?"

[Humph, an insignificant noisy brat dares call me brother? Are you freakin' worthy of it? Sitting next to you would throw the seven houses' honor down the drain!]

Xie Tianyang snorted inside as he clenched his teeth!

[This rotten Drifting Flowers Edifice has gone too far! Since when can a third rate clan kid yell at me?]

Xie Tianyang didn't even turn around so Zhuo Fan scratched his nose as he shouted, "Coward, are you that scared of sitting next to me?"

The fierce tone rang in everyone's ears.

Everyone was dazed, even Huangpu Qingyun. They were too out of it to even react.

[Blast it! This punk is a madman among lunatics! The nerve of this brat!]

He first threatened Elder Jiu and now he was calling Sword Marquise Abode's young master a coward? Did he yearn for death that much?

Elder Jiu didn't retaliate because of seniority. With his power, striking against a junior in front of everyone would be too shameful.

While Xie Tianyang was a rash youth. [You think he'd let you off after this public humiliation?]

[The Drifting Flowers Edifice won't say anything even if you do end up dead!]

Iris Overseer held her forehead, Peony Overseer sighed. Chu Qingcheng gnashed her teeth with tightened fists. She was itching to tear him to pieces.

[This rotten brat, here he goes again thinking with his brawn.]

Vicious Pill King's disciple and Merry Woods' disciple were enjoying the show with cold smiles.

"Edifice Lord Chu, this is too much even if you rely on Regent Estate. Do you want to slight Sword Marquise Abode so much?" Jian Suifeng snorted in anger as his body exudes power.

Chu Qingcheng rushed to diffuse the misunderstanding, "Please calm down, 8th elder. This is a misunderstanding. This child speaks without thinking. I will deal with this personally."

Chu Qingcheng glared at Zhuo Fan and berated, "Song Yu, what are you waiting for? Apologize!"

A small smile played on Zhuo Fan's lips as he looked at Xie Tianyang's back.

Shivering, Xie Tianyang turned around jerkily, eying Zhuo Fan with rage, but also shock. He then strode before Zhuo Fan.

"Young master Xie, please... He is but a child, please don't lower yourself to his level!" Chu Qingcheng was nervous, yet Yuan Qi gathered in her palms.

She would have no choice but to interfere if Xie Tianyang moved in for the kill.

Xiao Dandan jumped in front of Zhuo Fan as she nervously said, "Young master Xie, he is my fiancée, one of Drifting Flowers Edifice. His error will be dealt with by Drifting Flowers Edifice. Please don't let anger control you!"

Ignoring her, Xie Tianyang only calmly walked to Zhuo Fan's table.

However, outside of everyone's expectation, the two didn't jump at each other's throat. Xie Tianyang just landed his butt on the chair next to Zhuo Fan and poured himself a drink before downing the glass. Then, stared at Zhuo Fan's face, not fully convinced as he laughed, "Ha-ha-ha, good wine!"

"Of course! Drifting Flowers Edifice's wine is made by the young and charming ladies. Since you're here, brother, let's have drinks all round!"

Zhuo Fan filled his cup and Xie Tianyang nodded, sitting there as if nothing happened.

Everyone's eyes were bulging out of their sockets. Even Jian Suifeng was dumbstruck.

Xie Tianyang's reckless temper flared even before the likes of Huangpu Qingyun from the Regent Estate. Why was he casually drinking wine with a man who just cursed him?

He didn't understand, the others even more so.

Having the show cut short, the others were stunned. Chu Qingcheng was also dumbfounded, her hands relaxing.

She couldn't understand what trick Zhuo Fan pulled to calm Sword Marquise Abode's young master's anger.

"Xie Tianyang, didn't you say sitting at that table is beneath you..." Huangpu Qingyun was disappointed as he spoke coldly.

Laughing, Xie Tianyang waved off his reproach, "I do, but not with a brother who I appreciate."

Xie Tianyang and Zhuo Fan clinked glasses just like drinking buddies!

Jian Suifeng awkwardly sat next to Xie Tianyang, not quite able to wrap his head around his young master, "T-Tianyang, you..."

"Ha-ha-ha, 8th elder, sit! Sharing a table with this brother will not disgrace Sword Marquise Abode in the slightest!" Xie Tianyang waved his hand, pulling Jian Suifeng to sit.

Jian Suifeng watched Zhuo Fan, befuddled.

Seeing peace restored, Chu Qingcheng relaxed also. Her pretty eyes landed on Zhuo Fan with gratitude.

Zhuo Fan raised a glass in her honor and lifted an eyebrow.

Chu Qingcheng glared at him but they held no anger. It was the same as when a big sis smacked her little brother over the head, a love tap.

"Qingcheng!"

Huangpu Qingyun's eye grew cold, severely irked by Zhuo Fan's action of diffusing the conflict between Drifting Flowers Edifice and Sword Marquise Abode.

However, Chu Qingcheng did not notice. So, she urged, "Qingyun, it was hard to gather all the seven houses before the Hundred Pill Meeting, as you can see. So, don't be so hard on young master Xie. "

"Ha-ha-ha, how could I? I came because of you after all."

His eyes flashing, Huangpu Qingyun spoke, "Let's begin. Now that all houses are here, let us settle the matter between Drifting Flowers Edifice and Pill King Hall."

Chu Qingcheng was happy. [With Regent Estate standing here, that old dog will have to give up the antidote.]

What she didn't know however, was that Vicious Pill King was also anticipating this...

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Chapter 116, Ruthless Betrayal

Translator: StarReader

Editor: p4553r

Clap~

At the sharp clap, everyone turned to Chu Qingcheng.

She smiled and eyed the Vicious Pill King, "On this occasion, with all seven houses gathered here, I would like everyone to bear witness to one matter of mine!"

She stared Vicious Pill King down with a cold gaze, "Yan Song, it is time to end our grudges, today."

"Ha-ha-ha... What grudges do you speak of? I do not understand. Have I perhaps turned up uninvited?" Vicious Pill King stroked his beard.

Squinting, Chu Qingcheng continued, "Yan Song, stop faking it. The elders of the seven houses are here, and so is Regent Estate's second young master. You won't leave this place until you give up the Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote!"

Iris Overseer and Peony Overseer stood up also, ready to strike at a moment's notice.

The others kept silent, watching the events unfold.

They knew of this grudge between them for a long time. This time, however, Drifting Flowers Edifice invited Regent Estate to mediate and press down on Pill King Hall. Vicious Pill King would have no choice but to comply in his presence.

Yet, just when the second young master ought to speak, he remained unusually quiet.

The people ignored Chu Qingcheng, and Vicious Pill King, turning their gazes to Qingcheng.

Because they all knew, he was the one who had the final say.

Who was right and who was wrong, who failed and who won, all rested on this man's shoulders.

Huangpu Qingyun smiled towards Vicious Pill King, "Ha-ha-ha, Elder Yan, if you truly poisoned Drifting Flowers Edifice's disciples, there is no harm in providing the antidote and keep it cordial."

"He-he-he, second young master is right!"

Snickering, Vicious Pill King cupped his hands at Huangpu Qingyun, but his sinister eyes stared right at Chu Qingcheng, "I have indeed hurt your overseers, but I am unable to provide the antidote."

"Yan Song, the nerve of you! You won't even listen to the Regent Estate? Do I have to bother His Majesty for you to drop this matter?" Chu Qingcheng shouted.

But Huangpu Qingyun lightly waved it off, "His Highness is terribly occupied and has no time to mind us, seven houses. Even after what happened in Windgaze City between Veiled Dragon Pavilion and Hell Valley, His Highness rebuked them both. Not only they, but even the other houses were given a warning. Windgaze City has now become a restricted area for us."

When Huangpu Qingyun pointed this out, Long Jiu and Hell Valley's 5th elder started glaring at each other.

Zhuo Fan sneered inside, knowing where this was going.

For the Regent Estate to unify the seven houses, they must have all of the houses' affairs under their control. Wouldn't it become a mere figurehead as the leader of the seven houses if the other houses turned to the emperor for mediation?

[Humph, they move quite quickly when it comes to grabbing power. So this is the true ambition of Regent Estate!] Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed coldly.

Chu Qingcheng took a deep breath to calm her anger, "Qingyun, you are right, but this old dog..."

"Leave it to me!"

Huangpu Qingyun held his hand in interruption and spoke to Vicious Pill King, "Elder Yan, taking your current stance is tantamount to slighting Regent Estate. Don't you see me sitting here?"

"Ha-ha-ha, the second young master misunderstands. The truth is, I cannot provide the antidote!"

Vicious Pill King cupped his hands and smiled, "But, shouldn't what a certain thief stole be returned first?"

"Eh, what do you mean?" Huangpu Qingyun raised an eyebrow, his voice odd.

Grinning, Vicious Pill King looked at Chu Qingcheng in askance, speaking with a sly smile, "Edifice Lord Chu, I'm sure you haven't forgotten of that devil Chu Qingtian."

Shivering, tears welled in Chu Qingcheng as she clenched her fists. Bottomless rage and overflowing killing intent surged.

The people were shocked having witnessed Chu Qingcheng so out of control for the first time.

Sneering, Vicious Pill King added, "Drifting Flowers Edifice had once sent that devil, Chu Qingtian, to become my disciple. I found him smart and imparted some of my teachings. In the end, he stole Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote formula. His strength was lacking when refining it and died, while also poisoning many overseers in the process. How can this be my fault?"

"Yeah, he was my senior brother meant to inherit the master's legacy. But he was driven by delusions of grandeur and betrayed us despite our good relations. He got his just deserts when he thought too highly of himself. He was blind to believe he could refine the antidote, only to fail!"

Yan Fu was mocking them now, "The only thing I admire about my senior brother is his talent in alchemy. As for his moral character, he was too arrogant, repaying gratitude with enmity and hurting Drifting Flowers Edifice. It can be said he was impudent!"

"Shut up!

Chu Qingcheng's anger flared and her eyes reddened as she watched the evil pair. The others jerked in fright.

Throwing a disdainful gaze at her, Vicious Pill King snorted, "Second young master, if this happened in Regent Estate, would you give your spy the antidote?"

"You're right!" Huangpu Qingyun nodded.

Everyone's eyes were on him in a split second. It was Drifting Flowers Edifice who asked for him, so what was he doing sticking up for Pill King Hall?

Only Zhuo Fan knew this was coming, calmly tasting the fine wine.

"Second young master, there is a reason behind this matter. At that time, Pill King Hall attacked our Edifice Lord..." Iris Overseer hurried to explain, but Vicious Pill King cut her off, "Humph, there are plenty of arguments among the seven houses, but does this garner sending a spy to another house? Going by your words, won't that make Hell Valley filled with Veiled Dragon Pavilion's people? And Veiled Dragon Pavilion teeming with Hell Valley's spies as well?"

Elders began nodding at this.

In the case of small arguments, they were resolved openly. Sending spies was too demeaning and shameful for the seven houses' prestige!

Iris Overseer was flustered while Chu Qingcheng was almost lost in her rage. Her eyes bore hatred towards Yan Song, wanting to eat him alive.

"That's enough. Since I and the houses' elders are here, I will be the judge and you witnesses in dissolving this grievance."

Huangpu Qingyun's shout drowned the two side's bickering. Everyone nodded.

Huangpu Qingyun turned to the Vicious Pill King, to which Yan Song cupped his hands, "I leave everything in the second young master's hands!"

Turning to Chu Qingcheng, she let out a ragged breath and nodded. Huangpu Qingyun came at her request and believed he would side with Drifting Flowers Edifice.

Huangpu Qingyun's eyes flashed pleased, "With both sides in agreement, then I will state my verdict. Do not object it or it will mean a challenge to Regent Estate."

"Yes!" Chu Qingcheng and Vicious Pill King nodded.

"Good. Elder Yan, you are to give the Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote to the Drifting Flowers Edifice!" Huangpu Qingyun shouted and Chu Qingcheng was happy.

But Huangpu Qingyun followed up on a cold tone, "However, Drifting Flowers Edifice was the first in the wrong. To be fair, Elder Yan may choose any one item from Drifting Flowers Edifice as compensation!"

This caused a widespread shock. Everyone knew what Yan Song coveted the most.

Drifting Flowers Edifice refused to bargain this treasure with him. Or they would've long have traded it.

Huangpu Qingyun's verdict sounded fair, but it leaned towards Yan Song.

In a blink, they all understood, flickering their eyes from one to another. Chu Qingcheng was even more shocked. She noticed Yan Song's cunning smile and came to realize it was a trap all along.

[They planned this from the start!]

"Second young master's verdict is fair. I wholly agree!" Vicious Pill King laughed, "Then I won't be shy and choose Bodhi Root."

"Impossible!" Chu Qingcheng snorted, "The Drifting Flowers Edifice's sacred treasure won't be yours!"

"Qingcheng, you are the one who asked me to mediate. I have given my verdict and now you refuse? Are you mocking me?" Huangpu Qingyun barked.

Everyone knew Huangpu Qingyun didn't come to help Chu Qingcheng, but the Pill King Hall.

With this excuse, Regent Estate drove itself between Pill King Hall and Drifting Flowers Edifice. If Drifting Flowers Edifice didn't hand over Bodhi Root, they would have to face not only Pill King Hall, but the dreaded and mighty Regent Estate, the strongest of the seven houses.

If Regent Estate moved, no other house dared to help Drifting Flowers Edifice.

Before Drifting Flowers Edifice could drive out the vicious wolf, they brought in a tiger. There was no going back now.

Chu Qingcheng glared at Huangpu Qingyun with tears in her eyes. She never thought possible the one she rested her last hope on, her childhood sweetheart, would ruthlessly betray her!

Iris Overseer and Peony Overseer were enraged, glaring at him with bitter hatred.

The one they hated the most was now Huangpu Qingyun, the betrayer.

As if unable to look his former sweetheart in the eyes, Huangpu Qingyun turned his head and sighed, "Qingcheng, don't be so obstinate. This is all for Drifting Flowers Edifice's sake."

"Bullshit! What would be left of Drifting Flowers Edifice if the Bodhi Root is gone?" Peony Overseer's temper flared and cursed him.

"How will you call yourself Drifting Flowers Edifice if everyone is dead?" Huangpu Qingyun snorted, "We agreed before, to not contest my verdict. Accept it or suffer the wrath of Regent Estate!"

Peony Overseer turned mute, Chu Qingcheng and Iris Overseer were falling in despair.

However, a sneer echoed around, "Young master Huangpu, if my ears didn't fail me, you said you came to mediate and let the elders bear witness! Now that you have given your verdict, isn't it the elders' turn to judge its fairness?"

This shocked everyone, turning to find the brazen man who dared contest Regent Estate...

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Chapter 117, Lifeline

The people saw Zhuo Fan casually holding his glass as he nursed his wine. He didn't look afraid at all, having just contested against Huangpu Qingyun.

"Humph, you dare interrupt the matter between Drifting Flowers Edifice and Pill King Hall?" Huangpu Qingyun glared.

Zhuo Fan shook his head and embraced Xiao Dandan. Lifting a taunting eyebrow at Huangpu Qingyun, "I am now part of Drifting Flowers Edifice and have the right to speak for it. What goddamn right do you have for spouting bullshit?"

"Impudent!"

Huangpu Qingyun's fury resulted in unleashing his power, launching a sudden palm attack. Not even Zhuo Fan would dare take a palm backed by a 2nd layer of Profound Heaven cultivator.

However, he didn't look the slightest bit worried. He knew someone would save him!

A white silk ribbon seized the palm. He turned to see the cold Chu Qingcheng staring back.

"Qingcheng, what's the meaning of this? Are you violating the agreement?" Huangpu Qingyun squinted.

Chu Qingcheng spat through gnashed teeth, "Song Yu's words are correct. Second young master has given his verdict and now it is the elders' turn to judge its fairness. I am sure the great second young master is a man of his word."

After muttering to himself, Huangpu Qingyun snorted in anger, "Fine, then let the elders decide!"

His power flashed and the white silk ribbon on his hand was torn to shreds as he returned to his seat. His cold eyes gleamed over the crowd.

"Tell me, is my verdict right, or wrong?"

The hearts of everyone seized. They shook their heads then glared at Zhuo Fan.

[Does a Drifting Flowers Edifice's son in law have to go this far for them? Now you threw the ball in our court. Won't uttering a single word earn Regent Estate's rage?]

Mulling for a moment, Hell Valley's 5th elder stood up laughing, "Ha-ha-ha, second young master's verdict was indeed fair. I have no objection!"

"5th elder is wise. Second young master, I second him!" Vicious Pill King smiled at Huangpu Qingyun.

After seeing Peony Overseer's riveting gaze, then Huangpu Qingyun's, Merry Woods' Lin Zitian cupped his hands, "I accept second young master's verdict wholly."

Huangpu Qingyun nodded pleased and Peony Overseer was prepped to blow.

[No man is worthy! They speak sweet nothings and then abandon you in your hour of need. You damn two-faced!]

[I will never forget this, Lin Zitian!]

Peony Overseer's eyes burned with towering flames of rage, her breath ragged in a desperate attempt to hold it in. Meanwhile, Lin Zitian simply avoided her gaze.

As matters stand, three of the seven houses approved of Huangpu Qingyun's verdict. Only one more was needed to set it in stone.

Drifting Flowers Edifice was fully against it, but even they had no choice in the matter.

Pushed against the wall, none of the elders desired to fall alongside Drifting Flowers Edifice and offend Regent Estate.

Huangpu Qingyun had a pleased smile when he saw Chu Qingcheng's sour face. He turned to Long Jiu, "Next, Veiled Dragon Pavilion's Elder Jiu. State your stance!"

Taking a deep breath, Long Jiu thought it over. He saw Chu Qingcheng's hopeful gaze and Huangpu Qingyun's towering arrogance. Sighing, he shook his head, "Second young master, I also believe you are co-..."

Chu Qingcheng was ashen and Huangpu Qingyun was beaming from happiness.

Then Zhuo Fan pursed his lips, casually saying, "Grandpa Jiu, choose your words wisely."

[The hell! This punk is threatening Elder Jiu, again?]

Zhuo Fan's tone was flat, but all knew its meaning. What shocked the people present was his balls to disrespect Long Jiu again and again!

He may be a junior to Long Jiu, but doing it a second time was testing Veiled Dragon Pavilion's patience. If Long Jiu didn't strike, it would be an affront to their reputation!

"He-he-he, Long Jiu, you've been berated once again by a mere junior yet still do not retaliate. You have quite the mild temper, it seems." Hell Valley's 5th elder seized the chance to mock him.

Long Kui and Long Jie glared at Zhuo Fan.

Though Long Jiu didn't care, all his focus was on what to say next. Looking at Zhuo Fan again, he noticed the deep determination his eyes hid. Long Jiu then gnashed his teeth!

[Fine then, I'll gamble!]

"Second young master, I believe you are partial! Drifting Flowers Edifice may have been the first to be in the wrong. But taking their precious treasure from them is the same as cutting off their future. It is no different than destroying them!"

Long Jiu cupped his hand and shouted. Though his head was soaked in sweat. His words smacked Regent Estate in the face. His stance would have a great impact on the way Regent Estate would treat Veiled Dragon Pavilion in the future.

But he had more faith in Zhuo Fan. He saw it with his own eyes in Windgaze City. Each of Zhuo Fan's decisions was always correct.

Shock beyond belief! No one saw this coming. This wasn't just siding with Drifting Flowers Edifice, it was going against Regent Estate.

Chu Qingcheng and the other two overseers offered their thanks again and again. Long Jiu gave a bitter smile as he slumped in his chair.

He had no idea if this would promise blessings, or spell doom.

Huangpu Qingyun disregarded Long Jiu and stared at Zhuo Fan. He made the grand Elder Jiu change his decision. Just who the hell was he?

Indeed, Huangpu Qingyun discovered Long Jiu had already made up his mind of forsaking Drifting Flowers Edifice. However, those few words from Zhuo Fan set Veiled Dragon Pavilion against Regent Estate.

[Who in god's name is he? He has greater sway than even me?]

In fact, he wasn't the only one who noticed. Everyone else there realized this but chose to abstain from revealing it. Yet their eyes never left Zhuo Fan!

Chuckling inside, Zhuo Fan kept drinking with Xie Tianyang like best buds.

"What of Sword Marquise Abode? What is your opinion?" Huangpu Qingyun turned his cold eyes to Jian Suifeng.

Xie Tianyang however patted Jian Suifeng before he could rise and laughed, "8th elder, let me handle this."

"Uh, Tianyang, this concerns the future of Sword Marquise Abode. You must..."

"I know, I know!"

Xie Tianyang waved his warning off, sneering at Huangpu Qingyun with a slanted look, then toasted with Zhuo Fan again, "Kid, I find you really familiar. Are you really a son in law to Drifting Flowers Edifice?"

"Yep!" Rolling his eyes, Zhuo Fan didn't know what he was going for and nodded.

"He-he-he, then prove it by kissing your wife!" Xie Tianyang laughed as he pointed at Xiao Dandan.

She went beet red in a flash, her heart raced, going a mile a minute, and stole glances at Zhuo Fan. The latter glared at Xie Tianyang and cursed softly, "What are you playing at, punk? Wanna fight?"

Xie Tianyang just stated, "Hey now, I know you want my favor. So do what I say or I don't know which side to choose."

[What?!]

This made everyone hold their breaths. Jian Suifeng was close to exploding. In this critical moment, when one word could decide the future of their house, he was playing around?

"Tianyang!" Jian Suifeng shouted.

"8th elder, believe me. I know what I'm doing!" Xie Tianyang showed a reassuring glance. Jian Suifeng had never before seen him look so serious.

He nodded in the end and chose to believe this disciple. [He won't be damning the house over a game, right?]

"Fine, Xie Tianyang..." Zhuo Fan clenched his fists and was itching to wipe that grin off Xie Tianyang's face, with his fists. But he chose to endure, glaring at him, "I will obey your order!"

Zhuo Fan embraced Xiao Dandan and French kissed the girl in front of the whole crowd.

Xiao Dandan's mind went blank. When he saw Xie Tinayang's ridiculously pleased grin, Zhuo Fan couldn't help but curse, "Pervert, what are you happy about? If you want a woman, go find your own!"

"Ha-ha-ha, I already have, you know? Once I tell her, she will hate you forever." Xie Tianyang laughed and slapped the table in joy.

Everyone watched Sword Marquise Abode's young master in a daze. They didn't know what he was saying but one thing was certain. The two knew each other.

Meanwhile, only Zhuo Fan knew the 'she' he was referring to was Xue Ningxiang.

Shaking his head, Zhuo Fan sighed, "Make your choice then."

"Alright, brother. I choose you." Xie Tianyang could barely hold his glee as he turned to Huangpu Qingyun and taunted with his eyebrows, "Second young master, I absolutely positively refute your so-called fairness. That is why Sword Marquise Abode believes your verdict is wrong!"

Huangpu Qingyun clenched his fists in rage. His eyes bored through Xie Tianyang, "You have gall! Just you wait!"

Xie Tianyang lifted his head in confidence, ready to fight back.

With this, the verdict was a tie. Chu Qingcheng was overjoyed and expressed her thanks to Xie Tianyang. She then said to Huangpu Qingyun, "Since the second young master's verdict could not gain the seven houses' elders' approval, it is vetoed."

"Who said it is? Have you forgotten about us, the Regent Estate?" Huangpu Qingyun snorted.

"He-he-he, I have never heard of giving a verdict and vote also. Regent Estate's vote is invalid from the start." Zhuo Fan sneered.

Gnashing his teeth, Huangpu Qingyun glared at him.

If he had killed Zhuo Fan when he had the chance, Veiled Dragon Pavilion and Sword Marquise Abode would've abstained and Drifting Flowers Edifice would've easily fallen!

[Damn punk! I will kill you myself!] Huangpu Qingyun glared murderously at Zhuo Fan.

Zhuo Fan noticed and smiled, "If the second young master is unsatisfied with this conclusion, I have a proposition. Elder Yan gives the antidote and he is free to pick anything from Drifting Flowers Edifice, besides Bodhi Root!"

"No! Only Bodhi Root matters to me!" Vicious Pill King brushed his sleeve in anger.

Zhuo Fan perked the corner of his mouth as if he was expecting this, "That may not be off the table as you might think. Just that you can't have it so easily. It will all depend on you."

"What are you getting at?" Vicious Pill King asked.

"Simple. The Hundred Pill Meeting is about to start and the prize shall be the Bodhi Root. The winner will have all rights to claim it."

"Alright. Let's see if anyone can contest my alchemy skill! Ha-ha-ha..." Vicious Pill King cackled, thinking he had it in the bag.

Huangpu Qingyun muttered for a while then agreed. While Chu Qingcheng and the rest were filled with worry. Who could beat Vicious Pill King in alchemy?

It seemed like a lifeline for Drifting Flowers Edifice, but it didn't seem to make much of a difference then before...

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Chapter 118, Joint Plan

With both sides coming to an accord, the intricate feast had reached its end.

What people found strange, was Pill King Hall and Regent Estate converting about conditions not with Drifting Flowers Edifice's Lord, but Zhuo Fan, the Drifting Flowers Edifice's son in law.

In a land where women ruled, their fate was ultimately in the hands of a man. This was one irony some people couldn't get enough of.

But the real irony was that Zhuo Fan was a fake son in law, only known by the overseers. And this man was the one who spoke for the Drifting Flowers Edifice.

Peony Overseer and Iris Overseer exchanged a glance, their hearts bitter. As this was all said and done, any regret now would be wasted breath.

Besides the fact the elders of the seven houses were witnessing this, who'd be able to change it now that Pill King Hall and Regent Estate grasped such a huge advantage?

They could only blame themselves for trusting Regent Estate. They gave Huangpu Qingyun so many of their treasures to bring him here, only to be closer to losing their very last and most important one.

When the elders left, taking care of their affairs, Chu Qingcheng called for Huangpu Qingyun, the last man to leave.

"Wait!"

Chu Qingcheng's face was frosty, her eyes cold. Huangpu Qingyun paused but didn't turn around. Not far away, Vicious Pill King also paused and looked at the two.

"Why?" Chu Qingcheng said.

Huangpu Qingyun's lip moved but started with a sigh, "Qingcheng, I have given you a chance, but you didn't take it!"

Chu Qingcheng frowned.

"In any case, this is all in your house's interest. And neither of us can change it. If only Drifting Flowers Edifice would've been more behaved, you'd have never come to witness today!"

Huangpu Qingyun's eyes flashed with regret and strode away with his four Profound Heaven experts.

In Chu Qingcheng's moment of loss, Vicious Pill King crept over with a vicious smile, "Edifice Lord, you've been wrong in your assumptions this time. The ones who want the Bodhi Root isn't Pill King Hall, but Regent Estate."

"What?" Chu Qingcheng was startled.

"He-he-he, that old bat didn't tell you? Regent Estate had long demanded the Bodhi Root from her. Too bad she was so stubborn, not willing to budge an inch, so... "

Vicious Pill King squinted, "Guess it's no harm in telling you this secret at this point. You think I alone am enough to harm that old bat? She had advised three generations of your Edifice Lords, after all, a truly awe-inspiring peak Profound Heaven expert."

A bad feeling began to seize Chu Qingcheng's heart.

"Ha-ha-ha, you should have already guessed it. The one to have wounded her to such a state was an expert from Regent Estate! Foolish girl, you think your weak link with the second young master is enough to make Regent Estate help you? You brought the wolf in with open hands!"

Vicious Pill King's unrestrained laughter was filled with disdain as he took his leave.

Chu Qingcheng shivered and collapsed. Her eyes empty and tears streamed down her cheeks.

"What... have I done..." Her empty eyes now held despair. Her lone figure in the grand guest hall struck a pitiful image...

Meanwhile, Zhuo Fan and Xiao Dandan left the hall and saw the Veiled Dragon Pavilion with Sword Marquise Abode waiting for them in a remote corner.

With a grin, Zhuo Fan walked straight to them, with Xiao Dandan next to him, of course, eliciting a surprise from him, "What are you coming with me for? Go play by yourself!"

Xiao Dandan pouted, "You've done that in front of everyone and now you're so mean..."

"What did I do? Wasn't it just a kiss? It's nothing great, I did it to get Sword Marquise Abode's vote and save your Drifting Flowers Edifice." Zhuo Fan rolled his eyes and warned, "Don't ever mention this again. There is nothing going on between us."

"En!"

Xiao Dandan was like an obedient child, though in her heart, she felt miserable. Yet noticing the two houses watching them closely, she couldn't help but grab Zhuo Fan's hand in worry.

"Song Yu, are they looking for trouble since you insulted them at the feast? It'd be best to leave as soon as possible."

Zhuo Fan didn't explain and nod, "Correct, but this is a man's job, not for women! Also, the further you are from me, the better!"

Zhuo Fan wrested his hand from her grip without hesitation and walked forward. Xiao Dandan was sad but worried for his sake. She thought of something and quickly rushed off.

"Greetings, it's been a long time!"

Zhuo Fan sported a faint smile, putting on the Thunder Ring from his storage ring. Sparks traveled across it and Xie Tianyang's reacted in kind.

He laughed, "I knew it was you! You looked so different that I almost didn't recognize you. But calling me a coward made me realize the truth!"

Xie Tianyang was the first to call Zhuo Fan a coward and now the roles were reversed.

"By the way, where's sister in law?" Xie Tianyang's eyebrows danced on purpose.

Zhuo Fan's mood turned sour as he waved a fist, "Why did you do that anyway? Are you itching for a smackdown?"

"Ha-ha-ha... it's a joke, a joke. You didn't lose out anyway!" Xie Tianyang laughed as he withdrew, still somewhat afraid of Zhuo Fan.

"By the way, little brother, I wanted to ask. What was this all about?" Long Jiu asked sternly, "Don't you realize we all offended the Regent Estate?"

"Little brother? Wait... you're Zhuo Fan?"

Long Kui cried out. Since Long Jiu only had one little brother, Zhuo Fan, it was easy to figure it out.

Jian Suifeng and Long Jie were also in shock. Now they knew why Long Jiu and Xie Tianyang sold their face to a kid, to the point they openly defied Regent Estate. Both were brothers to Zhuo Fan, holding undying gratitude towards each other.

"Yeah, brother, what was that all about?" Xie Tianyang was also serious, "I trust you since you have a good reason, but don't go ahead and sell me out again. We've been through life and death together."

Zhuo Fan scratched his nose, "You two are the ones I trust the most. I wouldn't have dragged you into this if I had no other choice. Just that you've already been pushed into harm's way and it's best to plan ahead."

The two asked at the same time, "What do you mean?"

"Can't you see it?" Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed, "Regent Estate intends to unify all seven houses, and you two are on their kill list. Rather than wait to be killed, it's best to set a boundary and retaliate."

"What, unify the seven houses? How do you know tht?" They all cried.

Zhuo Fan slowly shook his head, "It's just a guess for now. Huangpu Qingyun displayed his power the instant he saw Xie Tianyang refuse to comply. If we take this arrogant behavior of a disciple into account, then we can draw conclusions at the true schemes cooking in the heads of the Regent Estate's minds.

"On the surface, it looks nothing more than looking to make trouble for Sword Marquise Abode and humiliating it through you. When in fact, he managed to achieve two things. Weakening Edifice Lord's position, instigating Drifting Flowers Edifice and Sword Marquise Abode against each other, and splitting the people into three camps. Those that obey, those that defy, and the opportunists!"

"From how everyone reacted just now, it is safe to assume Hell Valley and Pill King Hall are in support of them. Meanwhile, Drifting Flowers Edifice, Sword Marquise Abode, and Veiled Dragon Pavilion, having reproached him many times, are obviously against them. As for Merry Woods, they are in the opportunist camp!"

They began to recount the feast in its entirety and came to the same conclusion.

Now, they began to see why Huangpu Qingyun was so disgusted and rude over this trivial matter, even towards a house's young master.

He wasn't just arrogant, but was devising a way to deal with the houses!

They all broke out in cold sweat. If Zhuo Fan was right, the strongest of the seven houses was going to declare war on them. To root them out and unite the seven houses under one banner!

"This is all just a guess of yours. If it isn't true, then we became hostiles with Regent Estate for nothing." Long Kui said sternly after a moment.

Nodding, Zhuo Fan's eyes turned cold, "Indeed. But don't you all agree it is better to become enemies than to wait for the moment when they come at you and catch you unprepared? It's easy to see the difference in danger. If it was me, I would destroy them all at the slightest sign of disobedience!"

Shivering, Long Jiu and Jian Suifeng exchanged a glance and admired him inside.

[So vicious and decisive, just like a true ruler.]

"Fine, I know of that saying about 'guard against those that want to hurt you' or whatever! I get the Regent Estate is coveting us, but Drifting Flowers Edifice's sorry state is a different matter! Brother, you made us favor Drifting Flowers Edifice and thus pushed forward Regent Estate's war to us." Xie Tianyang suddenly said.

Jian Suifeng gave him a praising glance [This kid is finally thinking for his house.]

Zhuo Fan disapproved with a sneer, "Drifting Flowers Edifice is indeed the weakest of the seven, on the verge of collapse. This is why Regent Estate wants to start with them. Think about it. If they fall, who will Regent Estate turn to next?"

They all then realized, shock. Though the Drifting Flowers Edifice was the weakest amongst the seven houses, they were still part of the seven houses. If Drifting Flowers Edifice was out of the picture, the next would be them, Sword Marquise Abode and Veiled Dragon Pavilion.

"Drifting Flowers Edifice is your gate. Once this gate splits open, Regent Estate will be unstoppable in its march to swallow you all. In addition, Drifting Flowers Edifice's existence presents us with Regent Estate's attack target. Take Drifting Flowers Edifice out of the picture, and it will be anyone's guess who the next mark is."

They all nodded, with some people's eyes flashing with resolve. Even Long Kui, who always looked for chances to nitpick with him, had to agree.

Long Kui now understood how serious this matter was, which involved her house!

"Then what do you get out of this?" Xie Tianyang said, "I know you well enough and there's no way you'd get involved without getting something. Least of all, volunteering to help Drifting Flowers Edifice get over this predicament."

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with confidence and said, "Miss Long Kui, do you remember our ten years agreement?"

"Rising Luo clan above the seven houses in ten years?" Long Kui muttered.

"Correct." Zhuo Fan continued with a smile, "What I get from all of this, is to slow down the Regent Estate's campaign and allow the Luo clan rise in ten years. When I am done, we will see who will be the true number one house in the empire..."

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Chapter 119, Zhuo Fan's Determination

[What boasting!] Jian Suifeng was the first to open his mouth in shock.

Ten years to go beyond the seven houses? There never was such a precedent in the entire Tianyu Empire, let alone rising enough to fight the strongest of the seven houses, Regent Estate.

Zhuo Fan's words were borderline fantasy.

But from the looks of the rest, this arrogance was something they were used to. Given enough time, they got used to Zhuo Fan's egomaniac nature. So much so, they became numb to how many surprised he gave them, to some extent.

Besides, compared to those shocking and incredible things he did, boasting would hardly mean anything. In fact, he might actually pull it off!

They were skeptical, but also expectant. Looking forward to seeing how far this little freak could go.

Furthermore, their interests aligned, for now.

"Ai, to safeguard both of our houses, we have no choice but to work together and protect Drifting Flowers Edifice. It would've been best if we talked about this yesterday... Now that the two houses are in agreement, with none of us having any legitimate reason to intervene in that contest anymore..." Long Jiu shook his head.

Xie Tianyang did the same, complaining, "Punk, making that proposition was a bad move. Wining with alchemy is the same as just giving it to Vicious Pill King."

"You think I wanted to? How else could I have made them take a step back and give Drifting Flowers Edifice a lifeline?" Rolling his eyes, Zhuo Fan sneered, "Moreover, you don't need to worry about this. All you have to do is to support Drifting Flowers Edifice from time to time and prevent it from being swallowed!"

"Does that mean you have a contingency in place?" They all asked.

Perking the corner of his mouth, Zhuo Fan spoke with confidence, "It's just alchemy. I will face the Vicious Pill King myself!"

"What?! He is a 7th grade alchemist, how..."

This time they were panicking. A 7th-grade alchemist was considered a peak in Tianyu Empire. Very few people had reached such a level. And Vicious Pill King was the number one alchemist in Pill King Hall. He was better than even an average 7th-grade alchemist, possibly the best in the empire.

Was Zhuo Fan, with his cultivation, at his age, capable of such a feat?

[Damn it all to hell! What is up with this freak? Alchemy, arrays, he is a master of all! There's hardly anyone in his generation who is his match!]

[How did all of Heaven's favor get dumped on him?] Xie Tianyang was close to raining curses. He knew Zhuo Fan's skill in alchemy was abnormal, but not to the extent he reached a 7th-grade alchemist's level.

Zhuo Fan sighed, "Don't look at me like that. I am going to face him, but I too am not certain of success!"

Zhuo Fan knew alchemy needed three things: cultivation, skill, and flame.

Cultivation allowed prolonged control over the flame. Skill referred to the secret refining skills of some clans. Without a good one, no amount of cultivation would help refine a good pill. And flame determined the degree of ingredient refinement.

For high-grade ingredients, a common flame was unable to refine it. An alchemist had to look for a beast flame or a natural born fire!

The stronger the flame, the better the refinement.

His cultivation left room to refine a 4th-grade pill at best. But with the secret and ancient refining skill from Nine Serenities Secret Records, he could go a grade higher.

Regarding flame, he had no clue how strong the azure flame was, but it was strong, no doubt about it. He was confident he should be able to refine a 7th-grade pill!

"And if you fail?" Long Jiu saw Zhuo Fan silent and was beginning to worry.

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with naked killing intent, "Then it will come down to a fight. This is actually for the best. Taking the Bodhi Root, the Regent Estate will change their targets to me and Drifting Flowers Edifice will gain some breathing room."

"But... you will end up chased by the experts of three houses..." Long Jiu's eyes trembled, worried for Zhuo Fan's safety.

A smile leaked on Zhuo Fan's lips, "Ha-ha-ha, and? We'll be enemies sooner or later. Messing up their plan earlier is for the best! With me getting their attention, you three houses will have no trouble making preparations!"

Zhuo Fan's words moved them. He was using his life to buy them time.

They were now looking at him in gratitude and admiration. Who would dare brave such dangers when a single mistake would be paid for with his life?

"Damn, kid, you're truly bold!" Even Jian Suifeng had to admire him.

Xie Tianyang slapped his shoulder. He was silent, but his eyes spoke volumes. A burning gaze that seemed to want to melt him.

It was a hero's appreciation of another...

"Young master Xie, please do not hurt him!"

A charming voice was followed by the appearance of a figure in red. It was none other than Peony Overseer.

Xiao Dandan ran back and pulled the baffled Zhuo Fan behind the Peony Overseer.

"Everyone, Song Yu is as stubborn as a mule and offended you before. Please, for my sake, don't take it out on him." Peony Overseer cupped her hands.

They suddenly froze, then laughed!

Peony Overseer thought they wanted to get revenge on Zhuo Fan and rushed over to save him. This made them exchange a glance. It was though they sent out a message though their gaze, and all agreed to play along.

Zhuo Fan was always so cocky that Long Jiu, a senior, looked for any chance to poke fun at him.

Long Jiu coughed before he snorted in anger, "How did Drifting Flowers Edifice get such a rude disciple? I would've long slapped him silly if Peony Overseer hadn't shown up!"

"Uncle Jiu, please don't take it out on him!" Peony Overseer nodded again and again. Long Jiu was stroking his beard, but his eyebrow danced in amusement at Zhuo Fan.

Zhuo Fan's heart jumped and knew something was up.

And sure enough, Long Jiu bypassed Peony Overseer and patted his shoulder like a teaching elder, "Punk, you got away this time. But you better watch it in the future!"

Then Long Jiu slipped away, walking faster than normal, afraid Zhuo Fan would settle the score.

Zhuo Fan blinked, still out of it.

Xie Tianyang, having learned by Long Jiu's example, slapped his shoulder with a proud smile as he blurted, "Punk, better watch it next time! I won't go so easy again! I am cooler than you! Stronger than you! To think you even dared call me brother hoping you can climb ranks! ha-ha-ha..."

Xie Tianyang was carefree in his speech. If it were any given day, he'd never had the balls to speak to Zhuo Fan in such a way. Whose fault was it that Zhuo Fan took on Song Yu's face?

Zhuo Fan clenched his fists and fire ebbed in his eyes.

[Curses! Since when did I have such goddamned brothers? You were the one acting all familiar with me before, and now you're messing with me?]

As Zhuo Fan glared at the two's retreating figures, a charming voice spoke, "Hey, what are you looking at? Can't take it?"

Zhuo Fan turned towards Long Kui.

She struggled to hold her smile back as she berated, "You're just a junior just like this lady. You better get your act together when you see Uncle Jiu again. Don't be cheeky and learn some manners!"

Long Kui stuck out her chin, passing him by with an attitude to match. Worse, when she just passed him, Zhuo Fan noticed a wry smile on her face.

Zhuo Fan was trembling now, close to spitting blood.

[Curses!! Even this wench is joining in? You're lucky Drifting Flowers Edifice's people are around, or I'll be pulling your pants down and tanning your ass!]

[I am a sworn brother with Long Jiu! I am a senior here! You're the cheeky one!]

Zhuo Fan felt bleak. Long Jie passed by him and he glared back as if to say, 'What, you're also going to kick me around?'

Long Jie just shrugged and walked.

Jian Suifeng stroked his beard with a smile, walking after Xie Tianyang.

If he didn't see it himself, he wouldn't have believed the freak Zhuo Fan that killed You Guiqi, would have a day like this, all sullen and downcast.

Once all were gone, Xiao Dandan sighed and smiled, "That was dangerous. Lucky I called my master in time to save you..."

"Who told you to?"

Zhuo Fan glared impatiently and howled. [How could they dare think to mess with me if not for you two showing up?]

Xiao Dandan lowered her head, feeling deeply wronged.

Peony Overseer flared, "Song Yu, don't think you can always rely on Edifice Lord and pick on my disciple! Humph, you think I care for your fate? I only came to save you because Dandan asked me to!"

"Humph, men are all the same, ungrateful! Dandan, let's go. He isn't worthy of you!" Peony Overseer pulled Xiao Dandan away.

Xiao Dandan looked back at him, but Zhuo Fan rolled his eyes.

Zhuo Fan thought for a moment then walked to the guest hall. [It is time to lay the cards out for Chu Qingcheng!]

[Exchanging Bodhi Jade Sap for the safety of Drifting Flowers Edifice is a good enough deal for them...]

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Chapter 120, Strange Formula

The guest hall was quiet now that all the bustle was over. Only a bleak and desolate figure lay collapsed on the ground.

Knowing to be Chu Qingcheng, Zhuo Fan walked to her, his words blunt, "Edifice Lord, I need to speak with you. It's regarding Drifting Flowers Edifice's future. I am sure you'd be interested."

Zhuo Fan seemed like a different person, unlike the silly and naive Song Yu. He had a crafty smile and a deep gaze.

Yet his words fell on deaf ears.

Zhuo Fan looked down to find Chu Qingcheng's eyes dead. She didn't hear a word he said.

[Come on! You're a Profound Heaven expert and an Edifice Lord on top of that! Yet, you can't take a hit? A man's betrayal was enough to bring you to this state?]

Zhuo Fan shook his head.

[No wonder men have been rulers since antiquity. A woman's heart is too fragile.]

[Though, big sis, even if you want to give up, do that after you listen to my plan. At least give me the Bodhi Jade Sap while you're at it!]

Zhuo Fan sighed.

If this had happened yesterday, he would have laughed, thinking it would be easy to take the Bodhi Jade Sap and just leave.

But now, things have changed!

If anything happened to Chu Qingcheng, the Drifting Flowers Edifice would collapse. Wouldn't that be to Regent Estate's satisfaction? For now, he couldn't steal the Bodhi Jade Sap and could only politely ask for it.

"Edifice Lord Chu, wake up. Listen to my plan to rescue Drifting Flowers Edifice. I promise you will like it!" Zhuo Fan waved his hand in front of her.

Chu Qingcheng was still unresponsive, her eyes blank. Though, the tears proved she was very much alive.

Sighing, Zhuo Fan found himself out of options. After a person locked their heart to escape the cruel reality, the only one capable of saving them was themselves.

"Sister Chuchu, why are you like this..." Zhuo Fan sighed, not knowing what to do.

Suddenly, Chu Qingcheng moved and the light came back in her eyes, "W-what did you call me?"

Zhuo Fan was startled then happy. It seems his unintentional call brought this foolish lady back. He rushed to say, "Sister Chuchu, wake up!"

Zhuo Fan shook to her as he used Bewitching Whispers.

His voice was amplified hundreds of times in her ear. Chu Qingcheng shivered and woke up, looking back at Zhuo Fan. Her eyes softened, "So it's you... thank you!"

"It's nothing, as long as you're awake now!"

Nodding, Zhuo Fan laughed inside, "By the way, I have something..."

"No need to say it. Nothing matters at this point!" Chu Qingcheng stood up as she had made her newfound resolve. Her eyes flashed, "Drifting Flowers Edifice has entered such a crisis and it's my responsibility to do everything to save it!"

"This isn't your fault. And Drifting Flowers Edifice still has..."

"Song Yu." Chu Qingcheng didn't seem to have heard him as she smiled warmly, "I really need to thank you. I don't know how you got Veiled Dragon Pavilion and Sword Marquise Abode to help us, to give us one last chance. Without this chance, I know that we would've been stripped of all dignity!"

"Uh, actually..."

"Alright, you don't need to explain. I understand!" She used a delicate hand to help Zhuo Fan up and smiled, "I know you want to comfort me, but there's no need. I realize it now. There is still time until the Hundred Pill Meeting starts and hope you can help me with some things."

She pulled Zhuo Fan outside. The pitiful Zhuo Fan tried many times to get a word in, but was always shut down before he could finish. His only choice was to let Chu Qingcheng pull him.

[Big sis, can't you let me speak? I have a way to save Drifting Flowers Edifice!]

Zhuo Fan sighed, [How does this woman speak so fast? I can't get a word in. The moment I open my mouth, she lets out ten words. It is just for some Bodhi Jade Sap. Is it really necessary to cut me off every time?]

Zhuo Fan shook his head and stopped talking. Regardless of how he worded it, Chu Qingcheng had a way to shut him up each time, as if talking to a child!

Zhuo Fan was silent the whole trip, pulled along to a desolate cliff at the back of the edifice. And the cliff's wall had faint energy waves leaking from it, a barrier.

"Drifting Flowers Edifice disciple Chu Qingcheng, requesting an audience with Aunt Tao!" Chu Qingcheng bowed and shouted.

An invisible ripple echoed and the barrier opened.

An aged voice traveled from within, "Chuchu, you are the Lord now. You do not need to act this way for this old lady."

"Aunt Tao is the master of this place. I may be the Lord, but I dare not enter without permission!" Chu Qingcheng let out a rare smile and pulled Zhuo Fan inside.

The instant he got in, he sneezed!

It was so cold that he could feel it even through his Diamond Body. A cold cave such as this had to contain an extreme yin treasure!

Sure enough, a ten-meter square block of black-bluish ice laid in the middle of the cave. Any yin cultivator would greatly improve their speed of cultivation here. This place was a naturally formed treasure.

Although a tad lacking compared with Bodhi Root, it was still enough to make a Radiant Stage expert become greedy.

On the ice lay an old woman in intricate robes. She seemed in her fifties, but the black and blue on her face pointed out that she was poisoned, and from the looks of it, it had to be consuming most of her body.

"Damn! This old woman is so poisoned and can't move, yet she can still release this barrier? Just what's her cultivation? I didn't think it possible Drifting Flowers Edifice could have another expert." Zhuo Fan spoke.

Then a voice filled with contempt entered his ears, "Humph, foolish child, that is a living corpse. It cannot hear, cannot speak, cannot move. How can it release the barrier? I am the one who did it!"

Frowning, Zhuo Fan turned to see deeper inside the cave. There laid an old woman cross-legged. She wore black clothes and with how dusky it was in here, Zhuo Fan didn't notice her at first.

"Aunt Tao, he has very low cultivation and only a bit of physical strength. It is normal he didn't see you. Please don't blame him." Chu Qingcheng smiled.

Aunt Tao teased, "Girl, I have never seen you protect a man before. Is he your... Did you show it to him?"

Chu Qingcheng blushed and nodded.

Zhuo Fan was staring blankly, unable to make sense of anything!

[See what? Treasure?]

"Song Yu, she is our top alchemist, Aunt Tao. Quickly bow!" Chu Qingcheng pushed him forward.

Zhuo Fan helplessly went, feeling more bizarre. [Why suddenly bring me to your head alchemist? To teach her?]

[In any case, teaching her depends on her aptitude!]

Zhuo Fan did not wish to bow right now, but he had to show respect. But when he caught a glimpse of the old woman, he jumped in fright.

She had white hair, but also a green and blue face from being poisoned. Not worse than the old woman on the ice.

Rainbow Cloud Palm!

One look was enough to recognize the cause.

"What, did I scare you? Ha-ha-ha..." Aunt Tao showed a frightening smile, "Not all of Drifting Flowers Edifice's people are beauties!"

"Song Yu, don't be rude and apologize." Chu Qingcheng urged.

Yet Zhuo Fan didn't react, only watching her face as he muttered, "Wait, it's similar but not quite like the Rainbow Cloud Palm."

The old woman's face moved and showed surprise, "Child, you seem quite knowledgeable of poisons. To be honest, this isn't because of Rainbow Cloud Palm, but from when I failed to refine its antidote!"

"Are you making pills or poison?" Zhuo Fan shouted.

"Ha-ha-ha, well said!"

With a sad smile, Aunt Tao felt mournful, "Whether it's poison or medicine, I am yet unsure. But in these three years of research, I have come to understand this is like a pill yet not a pill, a poison yet not a poison! Vicious Pill King, you are indeed so remarkable that I can't even compare!"

With a crazed laughter, Aunt Tao fixed her eyes on the stone wall.

Zhuo Fan followed her eyes and squinted. A human skin was sprawled on the wall, holding a record of Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote formula.

Even with Zhuo Fan's extensive knowledge, he found it weird!

"How is this possible?"

Zhuo Fan muttered, "The seven ingredients... Each is a rare natural treasure. But the refining... is that of a poison or a pill?"

Being silent for a moment, Zhuo Fan walked to the living dead on the ancient ice. He touched her hand and injected his Yuan Qi. As he expected, she was poisoned by Rainbow Cloud Palm.

And just like Chu Qingcheng, she had the Bodhi Jade Sap restraining the seven poisons. With the help of this ancient ice, her life was preserved.

Only that Chu Qingcheng's poisoned state was less grave, while this living dead was filled with it. Even with an antidote, her recovery was slim. If the ancient ice hadn't kept her in suspended animation, her life would've been over.

Zhuo Fan turned to the formula on the wall and felt something was off about it.

[It's real, but there's a trick to it!]

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with a strange light...

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Chapter 121, Grandmother

"Alright child, this is a secret formula of Pill King Hall. I have studied it hard for many years yet it's workings elude me. You may have some passable skill in alchemy but there's no way you can see through its mysteries after just a glance."

Picking up on his surface thoughts, Aunt Tao shook her head. She then turned to Chu Qingcheng, "Girl, you didn't come here just for his sake, right?"

Chu Qingcheng's cheek went rosy and bowed as she related the feast's events in all its details. Aunt Tao cried out in shock.

"What, even Regent Estate came? Ah, this must be fate..."

Crying towards the heavens, Aunt Tao wiped the dry tears from her eyes and muttered, "Chuchu, what are you planning to do next? Will you let them destroy Drifting Flowers Edifice? Or will you plead the Venerable to fight them to the death?"

Venerable!

Zhuo Fan raised an eyebrow in thought.

Each of the Seven Noble Houses raised their own Venerable. They were Radiant Stage cultivators, their last line of defense. They would never ask a Venerable's intervention unless a calamity struck.

This confirmed that Drifting Flowers Edifice was on the brink of annihilation.

When he thought about it, going against another Radiant Stage expert would most likely end in the Regent Estate's Venerable being wounded for a few decades. [I guess it is another way to slow down their conquest.]

"Sister Chuchu, ask the Venerable to step in and let them know we will fight tooth and nail with them. Drifting Flowers Edifice isn't their playground." Zhuo Fan instigated, the more chaos, the better it was for him.

Chu Qingcheng shook her head, her eyes firm, "Asking the Venerable will trigger a war among the seven houses. The empire would be plunged into civil war and the people would fall into despair. My heart cannot bear it. If Drifting Flowers Edifice falls, we, sisters, will part ways, but in case of war, Drifting Flowers Edifice will lose for sure and my sisters will perish with it. As a Lord, I cannot ignore their fates."

"Now I see why Grandmother chose you, the least qualified, as the Lord despite unanimous disapproval." Aunt Tao nodded with a faint smile.

Zhuo Fan, on the other hand, rolled his eyes, [Softies the lot of 'em!]

If it were him, he would've divided and then conquered, attack openly and overtly, spreading slaughter everywhere and throw the empire upside down. That was where his chance laid, to rise above from that madness. [I would rather turn my back on the world than have the world turn its back on me!]

The demonic cultivator path was cruel and ambitious, with everyone stepping on others to reach the peak.

Unfortunately, Chu Qingcheng was not a demonic cultivator. Her kind nature was just not cut out for this unlike Zhuo Fan's bold nature!

"And there are the overseers poisoned by that old dog..."

Chu Qingcheng gazed with worry at Aunt Tao, "This is why I want to ask Aunt Tao to step out and protect the Bodhi Root! Perhaps our only chance of getting the antidote is if we give it in exchange..."

"You plan on making me face that accursed man in alchemy?"

Aunt Tao seemed to have heard the biggest joke, cackling like mad. But in her lunacy, a hint of woe was hidden.

"Qingcheng, look at me. In my trials of unraveling his Rainbow Cloud Palm, I am now neither human nor demon. Do you think my feeble skill is enough to win?"

Her heart in pain, Chu Qingcheng whispered something in Aunt Tao's ear.

Aunt Tao's eyes lit up and nodded, "I see, I see. So that's what you're planning. But... will it work?"

Chu Qingcheng's eyes were dead set, her nod firm, "Then I will die a worthy death!"

"So that's why you brought this child."

Sighing, Aunt Tao patted Chu Qingcheng tenderly on the shoulder. She then turned serious as she eyed Zhuo Fan, "Kid, come here and kowtow to this Grandmother three times!"

Zhuo Fan was clueless, [Grandmother? Where?]

Following her finger, he discovered she was referring to the living dead!

He was still out of the loop, but the dead ought to be shown respect, he guess. So kowtowing wasn't that big of a deal. And so, Zhuo Fan was quite casual in his kneeling and knocking his head on the ground.

As he did, he realized Chu Qingcheng was kneeling next to him, kowtowing just as well.

"Good! The rite is complete!"

Zhuo Fan was still confused when Aunt Tao shouted, and asked for him to kneel again.

This time, he was against it. He was first clueless to what was going on, but now he had to kneel again to this damnable old bat? But Chu Qingcheng's piercing eyes left Zhuo Fan with no other choice.

[Crud, I'm Song Yu now and can only kneel.]

Aunt Tao and Chu Qingcheng noticed his proud eyes and shook their heads.

Next, Aunt Tao began reciting the teaching of Drifting Flowers Edifice's ancestors, along with their thousand-year-old history. Zhuo Fan wasn't at all content listening to some senseless rambling.

But around the middle, Zhuo Fan started paying attention.

It turned out Drifting Flowers Edifice and Pill King Hall were in a tight alliance, frequently marrying one's disciples to the other.

Also, the Pill King Hall's Rainbow Cloud Palm wasn't so strong in the past. But thanks to Drifting Flowers Edifice providing Bodhi Jade Sap, it slowly improved, becoming what it was today, the dread of all the seven houses.

Later, because a Pill King Hall and Drifting Flowers Edifice couple quarreled, which led to a fight. It ended up with the husband using the Rainbow Cloud Palm on the wife, and the wife returned, enraged back to Drifting Flowers Edifice.

Drifting Flowers Edifice didn't take it seriously at first, using Bodhi Jade Sap to cure her. But they were shocked to find the Bodhi Jade Sap, which could save one from imminent death, to be ineffective.

From that moment, Drifting Flowers Edifice realized the seriousness of the situation. Pill King Hall's poison was out of control so they cut off their supply of Bodhi Jade Sap.

This enraged Pill King Hall and the houses became bitter enemies ever since.

Until a hundred years ago, the Pill King Hall kept harassing Drifting Flowers Edifice and killing 8 overseers with Rainbow Cloud Palm. Not even the Lords were exempted, with two of them falling victim as well.

The imperial family turned a blind eye to their feud. How could they not? Pill King Hall was supplying them with pills.

It got to the point where Pill King Hall drove Drifting Flowers Edifice close to destruction several times!

One thing had to be said. When there's a will, there's a way.

In Drifting Flowers Edifice's hour of most desperate need, a strange woman stepped up, Chu Bijun. She was none other than the living dead laying in the ancient ice.

Not only was she strong, she was also wise. On one hand, she repelled Pill King Hall's attacks, and, on the other, connected with the other houses through marriage, expanding their power. This had led to Pill King Hall to suffer countless and heavy defeats over the last century.

Everyone in the seven houses had to admire this woman's skill. They all came to the realization that without her, there would've been no Drifting Flowers Edifice today.

Even Pill King Hall had to admire her.

The people came to call her the Lady of Steel, while the disciples of Drifting Flowers Edifice called her Grandmother. She was by no means the Edifice Lord, but she assisted three generations of them, holding Drifting Flowers Edifice strong.

It was a pity the Lady of Steel ended up falling in an enemy's ploy.

A decade ago, Vicious Pill King had three overseers under his control. They betrayed the house and called out for help. Chu Bijun went to their rescue, only to fall into their trap.

Heavily wounded and poisoned by the Rainbow Cloud Palm, she still managed to escape their encirclement.

They always thought Pill King Hall was behind this but now they knew it was Regent Estate all along.

Her state was very precarious on her return, with but one breath away from death. In this moment of impending demise, she made a bold and radical decision.

To make Chu Qingcheng the Edifice Lord, passing on the mantle to a mere 13-year-old girl, with Iris and Peony Overseers at her side. This decision earned disapproval among many overseers.

But they could only bear it in silence before the might of their Grandmother. In light of what happened, Chu Qingcheng's most trusted allies were the Iris and Peony Overseers.

With time, people started to think Grandmother was dead, when in fact Aunt Tao, froze her on her last breath and had turned her into a living dead!

This ended the sorrowful history of Drifting Flowers Edifice.

Chu Qingcheng dabbed her eyes and recalled those times as she looked at Grandmother.

Aunt Tao was looking stern at Zhuo Fan, "Kid, did you get all of it?"

Zhuo Fan nodded, "Yes!"

"Good. Now, you will be the next one to pass it on! The Drifting Flowers Edifice will never die as long as someone remembers it!" She laughed and helped Zhuo up before he joined his and Chu Qingcheng's delicate hands together.

"Just for a few days... take care!"

Aunt Tao walked towards the cave wall and entered contemplation.

Zhuo Fan was about to ask for clarification when Chu Qingcheng pulled him before the Grandmother. She bowed again and left without turning around.

With a rumble, the stone door closed and the array started again.

"Sister Chuchu, what is going on?" Zhuo Fan asked puzzled. He didn't understand why Chu Qingcheng prevented him from speaking and brought him to listen to their history.

Chu Qingcheng shook her head and showed a rare but warm smile, "From now on, call me just Chuchu, or Qingcheng!"

"Uh..."

Zhuo Fan blinked. He was clueless to what Chuchu meant, but her gaze evoked something foreign in his heart.

"Silly!"

Chu Qingcheng pulled his hand as she continued, "You are now one of us. Come, I will take you to see the members of my family."

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Chapter 122, Heaven Toppling Pill

Chu Qingcheng took Zhuo Fan to a barren hill. Three lonely graves struck a dreadful image in the midst of harsh and cruel winds.

"They are my parents and my younger brother!" Chu Qingcheng sighed.

Zhuo Fan noticed that the graves had written on them: beloved mother, beloved father. However, the foremost one was a blank slab, with a black cloak fluttering on it.

On a closer look, there were some words on the cloak, 'heaven toppling pill'!

"Such audacious words!"

Zhuo Fan cried. Every cultivator knew that alchemy was a wide and long winding road. Even if you invested all your energy in it, you'd only pick up a few things along the way.

What's more, refining skills abided by Heaven's laws. How arrogant could one be to say the words, heaven toppling pill? Not even that narrow-minded Vicious Pill King would dare utter such a thing.

He turned puzzled to Chu Qingcheng, who replied with a warm smile, "You must find them self-centered, right?"

Zhuo Fan nodded. Chu Qingcheng walked to the grave and caressed the cloak, "This is my younger brother, Chu Qingtian! And this cloak is something I made for him!"

Chu Qingtian?

Zhuo Fan's raised an eyebrow as he recalled. Wasn't he the spy sent by Drifting Flowers Edifice to the Vicious Pill King? [It turns out to be her brother!]

[But sending her own brother as a spy... Seems Drifting Flowers Edifice has run out of talents!]

Zhuo Fan smacked his lips.

"Song Yu!"

Chu Qingcheng turned to him with a soft gaze, catching him by surprise, "Did you know? When you gave me fruits in the slums, when you fought for my sake, I saw Qingtian in you! Especially when you fought Yan Fu. Your reckless and stubborn nature is his spitting image."

Chu Qingcheng had tears glistening in her eyes, recalling the past.

Zhuo Fan blushed from shame. He always thought he got close to Chu Qingcheng thanks to Dong Tianba's skirt-chasing skills. It turned out he was only a substitute for her brother.

Embarrassed, Zhuo Fan muttered, "So sister Chuchu took me for your little brother?"

Glaring at him, Chu Qingcheng reproached, "I told you to stop saying sister. Did you forget?"

Zhuo Fan was baffled.

[A substitute little brother can't call you sister?]

Chu Qingcheng noticed his reaction and shook her head, "Perhaps I did consider you as my younger brother at first. But after today..."

Chu Qingcheng's blushed and muttered, "Now, you aren't my little brother anymore..."

She digressed so badly that Zhuo Fan had no clue what she was saying. Though it didn't look like she'd explain as she spoke, "My parents were normal disciples of Drifting Flowers Edifice which fell from Pill King Hall's poison. From a young age, I and Qingtian vowed revenge. Grandmother found our talent worthy of her attention and taught us herself!

"However, Qingtian was a man and Drifting Flowers Edifice had only one use for such people, marry their disciples and carry on Drifting Flowers Edifice forward. Qingtian's refining skill was beyond mere talent. He was unwilling to waste away living like this and defied Drifting Flowers Edifice in becoming Pill King Hall's disciple."

"Wasn't he a spy? How come you use 'defy'?" Zhuo Fan interrupted.

Chu Qingcheng nodded, "You are correct, but we were unaware of the ploy at that time. I even wrote a letter to break all ties with him! Only three years later did he return to Drifting Flowers Edifice. We then understood this was Grandmother's plan all along. He did not abandon his mission and stole the Pill King Hall's Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote formula. Because of Pill King Hall's strict guard, he used a concoction to carve the formula on his back. It would never be visible unless a special liquid was poured on it."

"You're saying that human skin in the cave, is your brother's?" Zhuo Fan's heart shuddered. Chu Qingtian went through inhuman lengths for Drifting Flowers Edifice.

He had to use human skin to take the formula with him. It was obvious how dangerous, how hard this mission was.

This also gave Zhuo Fan some plans he could use for the Luo clan. [Should I also get some diehards and send them inside the other houses as a contingency?]

But his plan would have to have far more impact than Drifting Flowers Edifice's. While Drifting Flowers Edifice wasted a decade for a formula, he had greater plots developing in his mind. Like getting his spies in the houses through some special means and reporting their every movement.

The Nine Serenities Secret Records had a secret art pertaining to demonic cultivators to aid in this endeavour but it was too cruel. The secret art wasn't used on enemies but on his own men. He could only harden his heart if he were to handle the seven houses.

Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with coldness.

Chu Qingcheng continued, oblivious of his reactions, "Qingtian's return had everyone excited. With Rainbow Cloud Palm's antidote, we had no reason to fear Pill King Hall. While everyone was eager, Aunt Tao and Qingtian began refining it."

"However, the formula was too much of an oddity! The overseers who were already poisoned died when taking the refined antidote, while the refiners got poisoned themselves! "

"And your brother died from poison? Heaven can be so cruel to geniuses!"

Zhuo Fan sighed. That was the truth of it and he felt close to tears. The antidote was a 7th-grade pill. He was a freak of an alchemy genius to participate in its refining at such a young age.

[It is truly a pity his life ended so soon.]

Chu Qingcheng shook her head, eyes downcast, "No, he was killed by the other overseers."

"What, but didn't he earn great merit? Why..."

Zhuo Fan was startled but soon figured it out.

[Who was the most unfortunate in this world, the nameless hero!]

[Why?]

[Ha-ha-ha, because, neither side got what they wanted!]

Chu Qingcheng confirmed it, "My other sisters suspected him as being Pill King Hall's spy, that he brought a fake formula to ruin the house. They took advantage of me, Peony Overseer and Iris Overseer's absence and beat him to death. This is Drifting Flowers Edifice's shame. We had no choice but to say he died from poisoning. While Aunt Tao still believed the formula is real, studying it painstakingly."

Tears fell from Chu Qingcheng's eyes. Zhuo Fan wanted to comfort her but she waved her hand to refuse, stopping him in his tracks.

"Because Qingtian's body was in such condition, I could only bury him here. I was afraid he would be cursed and reviled so I didn't leave his name behind. Later, I moved my parent's graves to have them reunited here."

Chu Qingcheng pulled Zhuo Fan's hand into kowtowing three times before the graves, "Song Yu, when I die, please bring my body here to rest with them."

Chu Qingcheng's words were filled with sorrow and sounded very much like a dying wish, leaving Zhuo Fan puzzled, [What is she planning?]

"Silly girl, with me here, there's nothing to worry about!" Zhuo Fan showed a rare serious expression.

Chu Qingcheng was startled. She rarely saw the stubborn Zhuo Fan display any semblance of reliability like right now.

She soon rolled her eyes, "You are never satisfied, are you? I told you to call me by my name and now you dare call me silly?"

"Uh, ha-ha-ha. Bro Dong said this will bring women a feeling of safety. What, you don't like it?" Zhuo Fan scratched his head, playing the fool.

She glared at him, "That brother of yours is a wastrel. Stay away from him!"

Zhuo Fan shrugged.

"Now, follow me to the last place."

After seeing Grandmother and paying respects to her family, Chu Qingcheng took the cloak and pulled Zhuo Fan as she soared.

Fifteen minutes later, they were at a familiar place.

Zhuo Fan was amazed to find this place was the slums where they first met. Because of the scourge woman, none dared to get close.

"Uh, why are we here again?"

Zhuo Fan was baffled, "Right, why is the great Edifice Lord hiding here as a scourge woman?"

Chu Qingcheng took a deep breath, "I had no choice. Enraged by what happened to Qingtian, I went to Yan Song to settle the score, only to be wounded and poisoned as well. I didn't let anyone know this, afraid of affecting Drifting Flowers Edifice's stability. I claimed to enter seclusion when in fact, I have been using the moon's yin power to suppress the poison. This was how I came to be known as a scourge woman."

Zhuo Fan nodded and Chu Qingcheng suddenly draped the black cloak on his shoulders.

Zhuo Fan looked at her, startled.

Chu Qingcheng smiled, "Song Yu, I don't have much time. I hope you can take Qingtian's place, letting me feel the warmth of a family."

"Ha-ha-ha, so I'm still your brother in the end..." Zhuo Fan laughed in spite of himself.

Bam!

Suddenly, Chu Qingcheng embraced his broad back and closed her eyes. Zhuo Fan was startled and did not continue to speak.

"I told you, you are not my brother. Just let me feel the warmth of a family one last time."

Chu Qingcheng stared into his eyes. She hesitated before removing her veil.

Her outstanding beauty was once again revealed to him, making his heart freeze. He was plunged into a daze a second time, despite seeing her once already.

Chu Qingcheng noticed and a hit of red colored her cheeks, "Song Yu, Qingtian told me my smile can topple cities. His pill can topple heaven. I hope you will let me relive our short warm memories together."

(StarReader: Qingcheng= city toppling)

(Star Reader: Qingtian= heaven toppling)

Zhuo Fan could not even process her words. He was too confused and lost, only nodding unconsciously.

Chu Qingcheng showed a smile of gratitude, "Thank you!"

The two began experiencing the lives of a man and a woman in a quiet and decrepit house. They were like average people, with Zhuo Fan repairing the house and Chu Qingcheng washing and cooking before eating together.

The following three days, Zhuo Fan never felt so at peace.

He would've never thought it possible before. How could the grand Demonic Emperor live his days in such a vile way? Yet, these days were spent without any bit of worry or remorse, as if he was living a dream.

Unfortunately, this was an act that fell in a pair of vicious eyes hiding in the darkness.

He was a Profound Heaven expert.

The figure left and soon arrived at Drifting Flowers Edifice's guest rooms. He quietly entered one that was filled with people.

Vicious Pill King, Merry Woods's Lin Zitian, Hell Valley's 5th elder, were all here. And leading them was none other than Regent Estate's second young master, Huangpu Qingyun.

The figure whispered in the second young master's ear.

Bam!

The teacup in his hand was shattered into pieces. Huangpu Qingyun was enraged.

"Second young master, what happened?" Vicious Pill King asked.

Clenching his fists, Huangpu Qingyun spat, "That bitch took off her veil for that punk!"

Huangpu Qingyun ran out, flying straight to the slums...

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Chapter 123, Golden Tyrant Body Art

A morning ray of warmth spilled into the house onto Zhuo Fan's peaceful face.

His eyelids trembled and he smiled, looking at the person in his arms.

He and Chu Qingcheng lived their days in peace like a game of house. They toiled by day and rested in the same bed by night.

Although nothing happened, they leaned on each other, giving a sense of peace to both. Zhuo Fan, who was a ruthless demon, never stumbled upon such feelings before.

[Perhaps, this is the warmth of a family.]

Zhuo Fan watched the beauty in his arms absentmindedly. Chu Qingcheng's appearance could incite wars.

As the saying went, a woman was a hero's downfall. He has experienced this first hand. Living a peaceful life with Chu Qingcheng was all that was on his mind right now.

[What's the point of rising to the top? What's the point of ruling the world? How can it compare to a beauty's smile?]

[Perhaps this is what they call to fall from grace. But so what? I am willing to fall, ha-ha-ha...]

Zhuo Fan laughed inside, the ever unchanging Demonic Emperor was wavering. He gazed at Chu Qingcheng resting on his chest.

Zhuo Fan couldn't help but want to lean in for a kiss!

Whoosh~

Suddenly, Chu Qingcheng opened her eyes and threw them out of the house.

Bam!

The house went up in flames, turning into ashes in an instant. From the rising ashes, a figure emerged, the outraged Huangpu Qingyun.

The fire in his eyes burned even hotter when he saw Chu Qingcheng and Zhuo Fan holding hands.

"Man, I just fixed the house!"

Huangpu Qingyun was angry, Zhuo Fan was pissed. This was his and Chu Qingcheng's quiet home. And it barely lasted a couple of days before it went up in smoke.

[Son of a bitch! You've gone too far! You take me for a meek lamb?]

These days of peace and quiet seemed to have gone to his head. It made him forget he was acting as Song Yu. Zhuo Fan's eyes flashed with killing intent. He took a step forward, ready to get Huangpu Qingyun acquainted with pain.

But Chu Qingcheng blocked him and whispered, "Song Yu, stay behind me!"

Finally realizing what he was about to do, Zhuo Fan relaxed his fists.

He couldn't step in now, or Regent Estate would have an excuse to move against Drifting Flowers Edifice and ruin all his plans.

[These days have been so relaxing that I forgot about the bigger picture!]

Zhuo Fan cursed inside, then sighed, "Qingcheng, I will leave it to you."

"Qingcheng?" It only worked to inflame Huangpu Qingyun's anger, "You're on a first-name basis now, like a cheating couple? I will make sure you will die miserably today!"

"Huangpu Qingyun, watch your mouth? Who's a cheating couple?" Chu Qingcheng glared.

"Humph, you're asking me? Chu Qingcheng, even when we settled on the agreement, you did not once remove your veil for me! Yet now you just let a damn punk see you first..."

Chu Qingcheng's eyes were cold, "Huangpu Qingyun, you're the one who broke our agreement first. Why would I ever show you my face?"

"Uh, hold on, you lost me there!" Zhuo Fan stepped in.

"You are so petty. She only lifted her veil and you want to kill me? Even with Qingcheng as your childhood sweetheart, you only don't wish for anyone to have a look at her appearing? Your reaction is uncalled for. It is not like I steal your wife or something?"

As the saying went, silence was golden. Huangpu Qingyun was now an explosive, ready to blow, "Rotten punk, you dare feign ignorance? You're dead, you hear!"

Huangpu Qingyun punched despite being 300 meters away. Nonetheless, a golden light flew from his fist and arrived in a blink.

Zhuo Fan's heart froze.

The body refining art he used could not be compared to Zhuo Fan's secret refining art, but was top-notch nonetheless.

In normal cases, a Profound Heaven expert killing a Bone Tempering cultivator was an easy feat. However, the distance had to be a bit smaller, or the Yuan Qi would fade before it could pass through a Bone Tempering expert's tough body.

Yet, this light was different. Zhuo Fan was certain this attack would've nailed your average Bone Tempering expert. Then again, he wasn't your average one either and could handle it.

Zhuo Fan made some guesses and even with this advantage, he knew his odds of winning were decent if he were to fight.

He dispatched the 3rd layer of Profound Heaven Stage You Guiqi with ease. Yet, currently, he felt like he was going to have a hard time against this 2nd layer expert. It spoke volumes of the Regent Estate's strength.

"Watch out!"

Chu Qingcheng pulled Zhuo Fan ten meters away, dodging the light. He heard a boom and looked to see a 30 meter large stone pulverized.

Chu Qingcheng was flustered. She knew Huangpu Qingyun was strong, but not to this extent. Her expression was grave.

"Humph, Qingcheng, did you see that? That punk only knows how to hide behind your skirt! When danger comes, you always have to protect him in the end. Such a man is unworthy of you!" Huangpu Qingyun snorted.

Chu Qingcheng raised her head high, "And? This is what I desire. Aren't most of the Drifting Flowers Edifice's men all like this?"

"Uh, Qingcheng, I don't mean to argue, but I don't hide behind women." Zhuo Fan's voice was quite naive, but this was something he could not let go. He needed to make a point here. He was none other than the Demonic Emperor. His name was at stake. Even if he was in a disguise, this was a matter of pride and he couldn't get sloppy in times like these.

Glaring at him, Chu Qingcheng lashed, "Zip it! No one was talking to you!"

"Ha-ha-ha, well said! If you call yourself a man then don't freakin' hide behind a woman. Come out and face me alone!" Huangpu Qingyun gave a taunting laughter.

Zhuo Fan's eyes went cold, staring at him with killing intent, though he didn't let it get to him, "We will fight, don't you worry, but not today. There's no harm in killing you two days later!"

The two watched him in shock and even Chu Qingcheng looked at him funny.

[What gave this brat the nerve to speak so boldly? Huangpu Qingyun was in the 2nd layer of Profound Heaven Stage, and a body cultivator!]

Yet, he was just a 2nd layer of Bone Tempering cultivator from a third rate clan. The gap could not be bigger.

Though his eyes spoke how confident he was of turning this threat into reality.

"Ha-ha-ha, perfect!"

Huangpu Qingyun was laughing from anger. He didn't expect a day would come when a nobody would predict his death.

It was utterly ridiculous!

[This punk must've lived in a cave and knows nothing of Regent Estate's power. I just displayed my power yet he still dares speak with such nerve.]

"No need to wait, I will squeeze the life out of you right now."

In the wake of Huangpu Qingyun's words, he leaped at Zhuo Fan. Chu Qingcheng held Zhuo Fan behind her in concern and had her other hand struck forward.

Bam!

Huangpu Qingyun's advance stopped, his fist was covered in ice. While Chu Qingcheng flew 20 meters, leaving a trail of blood.

"Humph, Qingcheng! For a brat, you even dared to use the Arcane Moon Art to block me!"

Huangpu Qingyun flicked the ice on his hand away, "You only have yourself to blame for what is about to happen!"

Roaring, Huangpu Qingyun stomped his feet and a golden light enveloped his body. There was even a faint golden dragon above his head. With a faint dragon roar, six golden dragons wound around his body.

Dragon Vein Body Refining!

Zhuo Fan finally got to know the source of his body's power. He trained his body with the essence of Dragon Veins.

Every Dragon Vein held the essence of earth. The power of earth was unshakable, lofty, and tough. Refining his body with this essence was like turning one's body into a mountain, holding both power and stability.

Speaking of Huangpu Qingyun's body refining method, it was another path leading to the same result as his own.

Zhuo Fan's body was cast using the blood of the earth, Diamond Sand. It was made with a great deal of earth essence. Both of them held similar bodies, but there were some disparities.

While Zhuo Fan was a living weapon, Huangpu Qingyun was half human half weapon. The gap was small but will be magnified as one's cultivation increased.

Chu Qingcheng cried in panic, "Regent Estate's profound ranked martial art, Golden Tyrant Body Art!"

"He-he-he, Qingcheng, I told you not to shield this punk with your life!" Huangpu Qingyun charged at Zhuo Fan.

Chu Qingcheng's palms danced. Tens of white ribbons flew at Huangpu Qingyun and encased him like a mummy.

Yet the next moment they were ripped to shreds and Chu Qingcheng spat blood while recoiling ten more steps. Huangpu Qingyun's speed wasn't affected in the least.

Zhuo Fan clenched his fist, ready to unfold his Lightning Wings.

[It seems that have no choice but to reveal myself and fight this guy to the death...]

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Chapter 124, Zhuo Fan's Wrath

"Flowing Space's Nine Forms, Space Rupturing Form!"

"Purple Lightning Gold Eye!"

"Cold Jade Palm!"

"Peony Finger!"

Following many yells, four attacks of great power descended. They were composed of purple lightning, lofty sword intent, a deep chilling wind, and a deep yet flexible power.

They hammered Huangpu Qingyun and forced him to withdraw three steps as four figures stood in front of Zhuo Fan and Chu Qingcheng.

Jian Suifeng, Long Jiu, Iris Overseer and Peony Overseer. The overseers rushed to Chu Qingcheng and checked her wounds while the first two were on high alert for any of Huangpu Qingyun's sudden movements.

When the dust settled, Huangpu Qingyun had a frosty expression, but unharmed in any way.

This caused a great deal of shock. The four elders used their most masterful skills against Huangpu Qingyun. But even though they lacked the intent to kill, he had no damage whatsoever, not even a bruise or a cut.

This only worked to put them on guard.

[No wonder Regent Estate's Golden Tyrant Body Art was the strongest of the seven houses! This is monstrous!]

Whoosh~

Three more figures landed, Vicious Pill King, Lin Zitian, and Hell Valley's 5th elder next to Huangpu Qingyun. They took a glance at the situation and could guess what happened.

"He-he-he, such gall you have to strike the second young master!" Vicious Pill King laughed coldly, taking advantage of the occasion to sow chaos, "If you want to fight, we will gladly entertain you!"

Lin Zitian and 5th elder exchanged glances, then looked at Huangpu Qingyun. They had no choice but to bear through this.

Not stepping forth now was getting on the Regent Estate's bad side.

With shivering hearts, Long Jiu's group looked at each other with determination on their faces. Huangpu Qingyun was bad enough, but now that the other three showed up, it would be hard to come out on top in this battle.

In an instant, Long Jiu and Jian Suifeng looked at Zhuo Fan without even realizing it.

Zhuo Fan had You Guiqi's killing under his belt. He was both brave and devious. The most dependable man here weren't they, the elders, but him.

Squinting, Zhuo Fan locked his eyes on Vicious Pill King.

If battle erupted, Vicious Pill King posed the biggest threat. Long Jiu and the others would suffer at this old dog's poisonous tricks. Before anything happened, he had to remove this danger from the equation.

This may diverge from Zhuo Fan's original plan, but things kept coming one after the other. [Who knew it would come to this? I have no choice but to be firm with my decisions and get rid of this headache first.]

Zhuo Fan slowly moved, boring into Vicious Pill King with killing intent. Yan Song was in the dark regarding Zhuo Fan's threat. Killing him would be easy when his guard was down.

Jian Suifeng and Long Jiu noticed his eyes and understood he came to a decision. Trading blows here was the same as falling out with Regent Estate and the other three houses. The seven houses war would erupt.

None of them could see if this was a fortune or disaster for their house.

What they did know, was that the die was cast and they had to strike!

"Hold on!"

Huangpu Qingyun shouted to stop everyone in place and he looked at Chu Qingcheng, "Qingcheng, think this through! Are you going to side with them?"

Chu Qingcheng wiped the blood from her mouth and stepped in front of the others. She turned to Zhuo Fan, then the black cloak, and her eyes steeled, "Yes, I have never been more certain!"

"Fine, be that way. I wish you all a long life!"

Huangpu Qingyun spat the last two words with thick sarcasm, evident of the rancor and curses running through his head.

He said his piece and left with his group. As they passed by Zhuo Fan, he gave a laughter seeping with contempt, "Punk, Drifting Flowers Edifice never had males, are you... ha-ha-ha..."

"Hold up, where did you get that idea?" Zhuo Fan raised a taunting eyebrow, "Wasn't Chu Qingtian a man? His actions were foolish, true, but he was a man through and through!"

He hid for a decade for Drifting Flowers Edifice, only to die at Drifting Flowers Edifice's hands. Yet, this pitiful hero was now viewed as a black stain.

Zhuo Fan didn't condone such idiotic behavior. Why would anyone throw away their lives for a bunch of broads who treated men like nothing more than tools. Only using them to secure their little sanctuary?

That was no mere idiocy, but downright madness!

However, his loyalty was praiseworthy even in Zhuo Fan's eyes.

"If he was truly a man, it would've been best if he stuck to sleeping with women, ha-ha-ha..." Huangpu Qingyun mocked, loathing displayed on his face.

Vicious Pill King snickered at Zhuo Fan, making it obvious he was speaking to everyone present, "Chu Qingtian was once my disciple. To be honest, his alchemy skill was top-notch, but he was too blinded by pride, holding everyone beneath him. He was a helpless dreamer, believing he alone was enough to refine the antidote and cure Drifting Flowers Edifice. The results speak for itself. He is more of a fool than anybody else!"

Vicious Pill King walked away, pleased after seeing Chu Qingcheng clenching her fists, but still couldn't help pouring more salt on the wound, "This is a world of men and wisdom. Fools and women that dare covet it will only get burnt!"

"Damn that Vicious Pill King!"

Long Jiu knew the ins and out of the situation and his lone eyes flickered in rage. He looked back at Chu Qingcheng to see her trembling in anger.

Long Jiu shook his head and whispered to Zhuo Fan, "Little brother, talk to Chuchu about the alliance between us three houses!"

"No need!"

Zhuo Fan's eyes flickered with coldness and spoke, eyeing the departing group, "That is your matter. What I want is to make that insufferable guy know the true meaning of being a man!"

Long Jiu's heart seized. He opened his mouth many times but Zhuo Fan's unfeeling face stopped him. He never saw Zhuo Fan looking so scary before...

When Huangpu Qingyun's group got back to Drifting Flowers Edifice's guest rooms, the Vicious Pill King asked, "Second young master, why did you let them go? We were more than enough to deal with them!"

"Fool!"

Huangpu Qingyun berated, "Killing them is easy, but what then? It will incite war among the seven houses. Even if we win, we will have to pay a heavy price for it."

"Second young master, why do you say that?" The others asked.

Huangpu Qingyun laughed mockingly and said, "Don't forget, Tianyu holds not just the Seven Noble Houses, but the Four Pillars..."

His voice drifted off, but everyone was clear. So Regent Estate's ambition was to reach such a height.

"In any case, Drifting Flowers Edifice is already close to fall. Don't mind those cornered dogs. As for Veiled Dragon Pavilion and Sword Marquise Abode, humph, I am now certain they are opposing us. We would've had to deal with them sooner or later!"

"Brilliant, second young master!"

They all bowed, but each thought differently.

Pill King Hall had long surrendered, while Hell Valley was grinning at his enemy's predicament. [Veiled Dragon Pavilion kicked an iron board this time.] As for Merry Woods's Lin Zitian, he was an opportunist. Seeing others bowing, he did the same, to avoid trouble befalling on his head!

Meanwhile, Zhuo Fan walked out of Drifting Flowers Edifice's guest room and sighed towards the sun.

Yesterday, he was caught up in his own delusion. He thought the world was made of just he and Chu Qingcheng, where the others mattered little. Today, he reentered the mortal world and shook his head out of regret.

[If not for Huangpu Qingyun's disturbance, I would've still been with Chu Qingcheng in that quaint house as nothing but simple farmers.]

But even without yesterday's event, he would have only one day until the Hundred Pill Meeting, where he had to put his plan in motion. His future didn't lay in that quiet farmhouse.

[I am but a simple worker!] Zhuo Fan sighed at the sky,

A white figure suddenly landed, Chu Qingcheng. But before he could scream, she took him into the air.

"Come with me!"

An hour later, they landed in the slums again. But they weren't the only ones there this time. There were the Dong siblings and Xiao Dandan.

Zhuo Fan was puzzled as to what it was about.

Chu Qingcheng giggled, "You visited Grandmother and my family. Now it's only reasonable that I visit your parents, but it's a way off and can only see your friends for now."

Chu Qingcheng pulled Zhuo Fan and invited the others into a small run-down house.

Xiao Dandan was dumbstruck. [Why is Edifice Lord with him, here?] She accomplished her master's order by bringing the Dong siblings here, where in fact they were meeting with Edifice Lord.

While she was dumbstruck, the Dong siblings were floored.

Meeting the evil Xiao Dandan first thing in the morning, they thought Drifting Flowers Edifice was about to settle the score with them and were on edge the whole way here. But seeing Edifice Lord holding hands with his brother, their whole world collapsed.

[Just how did Song Yu do it? How did a third rate clan young master end up with the leader of one of the Seven Noble Houses, Drifting Flowers Edifice? The number one beauty in Tianyu, Chu Qingcheng.]

"Sister, I often told you, you should've caught him first! Now, all hope is lost!" Dong Tianba stared at the couple, in a daze.

Dong Xiaowan lamented inside, not expecting this to happen, "How could I have known brother Song Yu and Drifting Flowers Edifice's Lord would have become an item?"

While they were bitter, Xiao Dandan felt like crying. She finally found herself a worthy man only to have her boss become her love rival. What could she possibly do now?

The three were now more bitter than ever...

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Chapter 125, Yours Truly Does Not and Will Not Owe Favors

"Sit down and relax!"

Many delicacies had already been laid on a worn and old table, courtesy of Chu Qingcheng's cooking. She was still hiding her face behind the veil, but her every gesture and elegant demeanor made her seem like the perfect wife. Her tone was neither haughty nor overbearing. She acted just like any ordinary young wife receiving faraway guests.

The trio stiffly took seats. They had Chu Qingcheng's invitation, but this does not mean that their heart was at ease.

On the contrary, Zhuo Fan was feeling right at home after having spent time with Chu Qingcheng the past few days. His movements were casual and frank. He spoke normally – like a simple family.

Dong Tianba began to envy him. [Lil' bro must have had quite the heavenly fortune for Chu Qingcheng to look at him.]

Xiao Dandan and Dong Xiaowan were staring at him all this time, but Chu Qingcheng's presence left them sour inside.

They felt inadequate in front of such a world-class beauty that they lowered their heads.

They passed the day in a peaceful and cheerful manner. Once dusk was setting in, Chu Qingcheng sighed, "It's getting late and we should part ways!"

"What parting do you speak of when tomorrow's the Hundred Pill Meeting?" Zhuo Fan raised an eyebrow.

Shaking her head in sorrow, Chu Qingcheng pulled his hand and said to the rest, "Come with me."

She walked ahead, with others rushing to catch up. They soon turned to a lonely road where a worn-out carriage stood.

That carriage belonged to none other than the Song clan Zhuo Fan reappropriated.

There were also six people standing close to it. Dong Tianba's four elders and the Peony and Iris Overseers standing at the front of the group.

This caught them by surprise, not understanding what was going on.

"Go."

Chu Qingcheng pointed at the carriage, "Leave by night and make haste in hiding your clans. You may still have a chance to survive!"

"W-what's going on? Edifice Lord Chuchu, why are you driving us away? Did we offend you?" Dong Tianba cried, so scared his legs were quaking.

Chu Qingcheng shook her head, "Forgive me. It is not your fault, but mine. I didn't want to drag you into this, but Huangpu Qingyun is petty. I fear he will strike you out of spite."

"Huangpu... The Regent Estate?" Dong Tianba was alarmed, on the verge of tears, "Why would Regent Estate be involved with us? We did nothing to them!"

"Your Dong clan has not been destroyed so why are you crying?"

Zhuo Fan snorted and turned to Chu Qingcheng, "What are you planning? Don't do anything stupid, there's still room to turn this around!"

Chu Qingcheng shook her head and caressed his cheek, "I know what I'm doing. Just that I need your help with something."

Zhuo Fan eyed her suspiciously.

She pulled Xiao Dandan, who was still in shock, and rested her hand in Zhuo Fan's, "Please watch over Dandan. She may very well be the last member of our Drifting Flowers Edifice house!"

"Edifice Lord!"

Xiao Dandan was panicking and Zhuo Fan paled. But before he could speak, Chu Qingcheng stopped them, "This is my last wish. You have to do this for me."

Chu Qingcheng took her storage ring and gave it to Xiao Dandan, "Dandan, take this with you on your journey with Song Yu to his clan. But you can only look inside once you arrive! Take care of your husband and don't be so willful, alright?"

Xiao Dandan nodded in tears.

Peony Overseer found it unbearable as she shouted, "It's late, leave quickly! If they find you, you won't get another chance!"

Dong Tianba didn't understand, but was clear to the danger, rushing inside the carriage with his sister.

Zhuo Fan knew Chu Qingcheng wanted to give Drifting Flowers Edifice a chance at revival. He had a plan in mind but wasn't sure it was foolproof. So he followed Chu Qingcheng's wishes and pulled Xiao Dandan into the carriage.

At worst, he'd come back once they were far enough.

His firm actions made Peony Overseer filled with anger, "Song Yu, look after my disciple, or I will never let you off!"

"Humph, your disciple is big now. She can take care of herself." Zhuo Fan shirked all responsibility and whipped the horses.

Peony Overseer stomped her foot in anger, watching the carriage drifting further away, "Humph, I told you men aren't reliable. Once he gets wind of trouble, he flees! He jumped in with no hesitation!"

"Chuchu, was it worth entrusting everything to that man?" Iris Overseer frowned.

Shaking her head, Chu Qingcheng said, "Aren't all our hopes resting on them leaving safely? What more is there to say?"

Yet, she couldn't fight back the tears, feeling disappointed by Zhuo Fan's last act.

[We will never see each other again. Can't you at least show some reluctance for the sake of all the precious little time we spent together?]

But they were unaware what Zhuo Fan was thinking. Their thoughts were completely worlds apart from each other. They took this as a final parting while Zhuo Fan took it as making a delivery. He'd be dropping off Xiao Dandan to a safe place before running straight back.

[I'm only a delivery boy, and soon will come back running. What final? What parting?]

"Let us return, tomorrow we have a bitter fight on our hands!"

Chu Qingcheng took a deep breath to reign in her emotions then flew back. The overseers were right behind her.

Night came, and soon darkness gave way to the sun's rays. Chu Qingcheng stood alone in her room, watching the grandiose building outside. It was the place where the Hundred Pill Meeting was held, and their final battle.

"Chuchu!

Iris Overseer flashed next to her and nodded, "Everything's ready. All that's left is for that old dog to come."

"Good!"

Chu Qingcheng's eyes flashed with resolve, "Drifting Flowers Edifice may fall, but that old dog will go down with it. Blood for blood. Let's go!"

...

Meanwhile, Zhuo Fan rode the carriage all night and was now a hundred miles out of Drifting Flowers City. He thought it was enough, loosened the reins, and jumped down.

"Alright, you guys leave. I'm going back!"

"Darling, wait!" Xiao Dandan cried out from inside, "You can't go back! Won't you make sister Qingcheng's sacrifice in vain?"

"Who's your Darling?! Don't shout without thinking! Isn't Chu Qingcheng your Edifice Lord? What a cheeky disciple, calling her sister."

Reddening, Xiao Dandan replied coyly, "Isn't it because you are my husband? Edifice Lord has given my hand to you personally. So, you are my husband in every sense of the word. And Edifice Lord is your wife as well. What else can I do but call her sister?"

"What?! When did Chu Qingcheng become my wife?" Zhuo Fan was floored.

Scratching his head, Dong Tianba stuck out of the carriage and sighed, "Bro, how are you so slow in the head? Both of you were so close in that broken house that even a blind man could see you two are married. How could you not? What she said should've been an obvious enough hint. Yesterday, you visited her family, today she visited your friends. What else could it be if not to show everyone that you two were married?"

"Uh, that can't be... I always thought she saw me as her younger brother to relive her old warm memories, how..." Zhuo Fan was dumbfounded. He, a demon through and through, with his nose always deep plotting against others, was clueless in matters between a man and a woman.

Even if he were to engage in such acts, it would only be a stepping stone for a greater purpose, faking through it all. He had never ever truly experienced romantic love.

Xiao Dandan watched Zhuo Fan cautiously as she muttered, "Then Darling, let me ask you. Did you see her face?"

"Don't call me that!"

Zhuo Fan shook away her approaching hand in loathing then thought about it, "I have, twice!"

"Then it is indeed so. Edifice Lord has never married before. If a man were to see her face, she would either kill him off or resign her duty as Edifice lord and marry him."

Xiao Dandan raised an eyebrow, "Since husband is safe and sound, it speaks of sister Chuchu's decision of recognizing you as a husband."

Zhuo Fan suddenly recalled the moment he made a sneak attack on Chuchu for her Bodhi Jade Sap, only to take her face cover. She was deeply conflicted then.

[She was hesitating whether to kill me or to marry me?]

[That was way too dangerous. If not for my boyish charm and dashing good looks that no woman on this wide green earth can resist, Chu Qingcheng would've killed me by now!]

[He-he-he, what can I say, I'm too much of a dashing rogue, only matched by my luck!]

[Wait, aren't I Song Yu now?]

Zhuo Fan's confidence hit rock bottom, [At least the kid's pretty face had some use and saved my life. Or maybe it was my wonderful personality that won her over?]

Zhuo Fan sank in delusions. But what he didn't take into consideration was where exactly did the 'wonderful' part fit a demon like him.

"Darling, if you still don't believe me... the ring sister Chuchu gave has to be holding that item."

His constant hesitation led Xiao Dandan to defy the task entrusted to her by Chu Qingcheng. She took out the item in the ring, all to justify her position as his wife.

After the light dimmed, three things appeared in front of everyone's eyes.

One was the black cloak Zhuo Fan already saw and the second a small bottle. He also knew this contained the Bodhi Jade Sap. He immediately snatched it, overcome with joy.

[I've run all over the place for this, only to fall so easily in my lap. Ha-ha-ha...]

Xiao Dandan said, "The Bodhi Jade Sap is sister Qingcheng's dowry. If you take it, then you are accepting sister Qingcheng and... me!"

Xiao Dandan blushed at the last part. Zhuo Fan was in a daze. After he heard what she said, all smiles were wiped from his face.

He was a Demonic Emperor that had no scruples, but never ever owed favors. It would've been better if he had stolen it. Yet, the fact remained that it was given to him by someone, along with a 'free gift' attached. If he took it, then he had to accept the 'gift'.

But accepting Xiao Dandan...

[Ha-ha-ha, sorry... but the first impression I have of you already ruined it for me. I won't be taking you!]

Now he turned to the third item, a wooden piece of wood with the words 'Beloved wife Chu Qingcheng's memorial tablet' written on it!

Zhuo Fan's eyes squinted and cried, "What is this?"

Xiao Dandan sighed, "I shouldn't be telling you this, but I once heard master mention that they were ready to fall with the Vicious Pill King..."

"Damnation! You think they'll succeed to drag that old geezer down when they couldn't even keep this plan hidden from a mere disciple? Humph, a bunch of foolish women going to their doom."

Zhuo Fan rained curses. Then he looked at the Bodhi Jade Sap and snickered, "He-he-he, yours truly does not and will not owe favors!"

He took the items into his ring and ran towards Drifting Flowers City, disappearing from sight.

Dong Tianba and the rest were restless. He was a loafer, but not a fool. If the overseers and the lord were in a bitter fight, didn't that mean Drifting Flowers Edifice was the worst place to be right now?

Would Zhuo Fan get out alive if he returned?

"Damn it, Darling won't be able to come back if he goes. We need to go after him!" Xiao Dandan cried.

Dong Xiaowan was also anxiously watching her brother, pleading. Dong Tianba gnashed his teeth and ordered, "Let's go, I can not allow my brother to face dangers alone again!"

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Chapter 126, Complete Betrayal

The Drifting Flowers Arena was more than a hundred meters tall, spanning a few kilometers, the largest building in Drifting Flowers City. This was where the Hundred Pill Meeting was being held.

It was divided into three layers in a circular shape.

The first layer was where the competitors met. It was the stage where thousands of cauldrons spread across the entire floor.

The second layer was for the second and third rated clans who came to spectate.

The third layer was for the glorious clans of Tianyu Empire. This layer hosted terraces, which acted as stands for the honorable guests of the Seven Noble Houses.

Chu Qingcheng and her two overseers stood in the host terrace, furthest from the arena.

The Bodhi Root was placed on the pedestal, the prize of today's competition. The winner would have the glory of stepping forward and snatching Drifting Flowers Edifice's greatest treasure.

None wanted to admit it, but they were clear it would be none other than Vicious Pill King.

"Is everything ready? Did that old dog notice?" Chu Qingcheng's eyes flashed.

Peony Overseer nodded, "I tasked the ones I trust the most with this. That stage contains a Dragon Prison Array. Not even the old dog can escape it once he enters!"

"What of Huangpu Qingyun?" Chu Qingcheng looked to the eastern stand with worry.

"The eastern stand also has a barrier placed. They won't get the chance to intervene when the time comes. So, we will finally settle the score with that old dog!"

"Then I can rest easy."

Chu Qingcheng sighed, "Senior sisters, this old dog isn't to be trifled with. Even if we three attack together, we may kill him, but we will also shortly after succumb to his poison. I don't mind dying, just that senior sisters will end up accompanying me... "

"Qingcheng, you don't need to say it!" Iris Overseer patted her hand, "We have promised Grandmother to help you without fail. As Drifting Flowers Edifice is about to die, then let it die with a bang. We will tell the world that women are not easy targets."

Chu Qingcheng was moved and squeezed their hands. The three shared deep feelings for each other.

"Why haven't the other overseers arrived yet?" Chu Qingcheng found it unusual.

The other two were also puzzled.

Suddenly, a wizened voice followed by familiar figures appeared before them, "Ha-ha-ha, Edifice Lord Chu, are you looking for them perhaps?"

The three's eyes were wide in shock.

Behind Vicious Pill King stood eight ladies in different colors and veils on their faces. They were none other than 8 of the Drifting Flowers Edifice's 15 edifices' overseers.

The eight avoided looking at the three, lowering their heads in shame.

"Y-you all..."

She knew they were under Yan Song's poison, but never thought they would stand in the open by that old dog's side. This was a naked betrayal! Peony Overseer was livid and couldn't even find words to speak.

Chu Qingcheng rested her hands on the Peony Overseer to soothe her anger, her tone was flat towards the 8 women, "I feel your pain and I don't blame you. I just hope you will take care of yourselves, leaving this dreaded place as far behind as possible."

"Edifice Lord..."

The eight were sobbing but did not show their appreciation for her words because of Vicious Pill King's threat.

"Humph, what a soft Edifice Lord. However, I wonder if you'll show the same softness to them!" Vicious Pill King snickered and clapped three times.

Five figures flashed and the trio paled.

They were the rest of the overseers.

Of all the overseers, everyone sided with Pill King Hall, except for Peony and Iris Overseers.

They each had their reasons, but this was without a doubt the true power of Drifting Flowers Edifice coming out in full force.

Chu Qingcheng shivered and could no longer keep calm. She was unaware Vicious Pill King was so thorough in stripping them of their power. They had no way to even fight back.

"Overseer Chun Yu, you are the oldest among us. How is it that even you..." Peony Overseer glared at one of the five people.

The person was calm, however, "Drifting Flowers Edifice's power waned and I could only look elsewhere for safety. I urge you to find your own and not do something you should not."

At her odd words, Chu Qingcheng looked doubtful at Peony Overseer.

Peony Overseer bit her lip, filled with regret and anguish, "Forgive me, Qingcheng. I have trusted that matter to her! I thought she was still trustworthy, but..."

Chu Qingcheng trembled and her body swayed. Despair swallowed her eyes.

She knew what Peony Overseer was referring to, the array to counter Vicious Pill King when he got the Bodhi Root. The one tasked with it turned out to be a traitor. It was clear the Vicious Pill King was privy to all their plans.

Their last chance to end this old dog had failed...

"He-he-he, I already told you. Drifting Flowers Edifice is under my complete control. All your efforts are useless. Why not spare yourselves the ordeal?"

Vicious Pill King cackled and waved his hand. Clattering resounded as sparkling spirit stones landed at their feet. They were the ones to be used for the Dragon Prison Array.

"By the way, I also managed to undo the barrier on the eastern stand. We can't have the second young master watch the Hundred Pill Meeting from behind a barrier, now can we? You've been most rude to Regent Estate, ha-ha-ha..."

Vicious Pill King descended the stairs laughing, with the traitorous overseers having little choice but to follow with their heads down.

This made all onlookers watch slack jawed.

Why were 13 overseers following the Vicious Pill King? Any man with a brain would know that the Drifting Flowers Edifice had now lost most of their power.

"Ha-ha-ha, Edifice Lord Chu, see how I take your precious treasure through legitimate means." Vicious Pill King laughed at the bottom of the stairs.

Chu Qingcheng's eyes felt like they were in a fog. She clenched her fists so hard that scarlet blood flowed.

Peony Overseer was overcome by guilt as tears flowed unimpeded, "Qingcheng, hit me. It's all my fault for ruining everything."

"Peony Overseer, how could you be so dazed to let others know of our plan..."

Chu Qingcheng stood there frozen. It felt like the sky collapsed, her heart in pieces. Iris Overseer sent a reproaching glare to Peony Overseer and sighed.

What would be the point in pointing fingers when the matter was done? Vicious Pill King achieved victory in the most anticlimactic way possible. All that was left was for them to wait for him to strut and claim his prize.

"Old dog Yan Song, don't think it's that easy to take our treasure."

A shout echoed and Yan Song looked over only to snicker, "I wonder who it was, but then I saw it was only you, old hag!"

It was Drifting Flowers Edifice's best alchemist, Aunt Tao.

Aunt Tao flashed beside Chu Qingcheng and said, "Girl, don't cry, we haven't lost yet!"

"Humph, empty words! When I last saw you two decades ago, you were but a 6th-grade alchemist, while I am a 7th. After all this time, you would still come up short of my skill even if you can refine a 7th-grade pill!"

"Humph, that remains to be seen. Time can change anything! Don't think you'll get anywhere near the Bodhi Root with me around!"

Vicious Pill King mocked, "Old hag, show me if all those years were of any help!"

Vicious Pill King flicked his sleeve and left with his entourage.

Chu Qingcheng looked at Aunt Tao with hope, "Aunt Tao, can you truly win?"

Aunt Tao let out a downcast sigh, her previous vigor sapped, "Silly girl, I was only pretending. The Vicious Pill King is indeed the best alchemist in Tianyu!"

"You're saying we're hopeless then..." Chu Qingcheng's eyes were now dead, with the last burning kindling of hope put out.

Aunt Tao felt pained as she spoke, "That may not be the case. Regardless of how strong an alchemist is, failing in refining speaks louder. If an alchemist is distracted in mid refining, then the pill would most likely end up in failure. Not even Vicious Pill King with decades of refining experience could escape such predicament!"

"You're saying there's still hope?" Chu Qingcheng's eyes sparkled, as well as the other two overseers'.

Aunt Tao's heart could not bear their pure eyes, but forced a nod. Though she knew Vicious Pill King's decades of experience forged him a steady mind. How could he make such a rudimentary mistake?

In the case she failed ten times at refining, Vicious Pill King may never fail even once.

Sighing, Aunt Tao dragged her body down the stairs, "I will go prepare. Don't be discouraged, we still have a chance!"

All this senior could do was give these young ladies words of comfort, even if she herself did not believe in them. Her word had the desired effect and Chu Qingcheng looked livelier. The trio watched Aunt Tao with hope.

Yet, this last hope of theirs was an old woman walking to certain death while also having one foot in the grave...

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Chapter 127, Gathering of Experts

After the courtesy had been being slowly dispensed at the Hundred Pill Meeting, the clans' delegates stepped in the widespread arena. Meanwhile, the guests had slowly gathered and the audience seated.

Regent Estate, Hell Valley, Pill King Hall, and Merry Woods were guided to the eastern stand. Huangpu Qingyun watched the prize on the pedestal, already sporting a winner's attitude, and smiled.

On the other hand, the Veiled Dragon Pavilion, Sword Marquise Abode, and the ones who stood in favor of Drifting Flowers Edifice, were guided to the western stand. Long Jiu was with Xie Tianyang and the rest, watching the endless stream of people with a critical eye. However, there was no sign of Zhuo Fan.

[If this kid doesn't show, who will deal with the Vicious Pill King?]

Seconds ticked by, then minutes, as the arena was gradually filled with contestants.

"Oh, if it isn't Master Huang! You're also competing?"

"Yeah. Everyone aims for higher standing. Drifting Flowers Edifice's Hundred Pill Meeting happens once every few decades. How could I not come?"

"Ha-ha-ha, I'm the same. I hope to rise in fame as well. Even if I cannot enter Drifting Flowers Edifice, I can at least make an impression on some of the first rate clans. Eh? Isn't that Master Zhang? It's an honor to meet you..."

"Oh, Master Chen, such an honor..."

The competition had yet to begin and the contestants were greeting each other. Suddenly, an elderly with a powerful aura stepped in, with a split mustache on the corners of his mouth. He glowed with confidence.

Before his presence, everyone halted what they were doing.

"A-aren't you the head alchemist of the Ximen clan of Thriving City, Liu Yizhen? Ximen clan is a first rate clan, and you're even their head alchemist. Why on earth did you come here?"

"Yeah. Everyone has heard of your skill already. You earned second place at the Great Alchemy Tournament in the imperial capital. You were but seconds behind completing your refining. Only to end up forfeiting the first place to the Pill King Hall's genius disciple, Yan Fu. You are already well known, so why come to this competition among nameless juniors?"

"Indeed, you are a famous grandmaster, a glorious 5th-grade alchemist. So why come to this competition? You should give us all a chance too..."

...

Everyone was complaining when Liu Yizhen showed up. Yet, the elder had a faint smile, and a poised face, as if he relished every bit of rancor aimed at him, "Ha-ha-ha, I may have a bit of a name in alchemy but I still have so much to learn. I have come today not to seek fame, but to open my eyes and learn from everyone."

[As if! Who are you kidding? You clearly came to enter Drifting Flowers Edifice. Everyone here knows Ximen is great, but they are still not one of the Seven Noble Houses.]

He was looked down on and despised by everyone. The result of the contestants' deep seated fear.

Liu Yizhen was greatly known throughout the empire for his alchemy. They would have no chance now that he was here.

More and more reproachful gazes settled on him, but he responded with a haughty attitude, as though he was the king of the world!

"Settle down, everyone!"

A sweet voice, soothing to the ear came. It was followed by a young lady in a violet dress, who floated down from the sky.

Silence ensued so deeply that the clamor of before seemed more like an illusion.

The lady nodded, pleased, "Greetings and welcome competitors, to our Drifting Flowers Edifice's Hundred Pill Meeting. I am the judge of today's competition, Xiao Ya."

Clap!

Xiaoya clapped lightly and a string of demure girls appeared in a line, with each settling at every cauldron.

"This time, every participant will be accompanied by one of our disciples to prevent cheating."

"Drifting Flowers Edifice is truly great, settling every detail!" Liu Yizhen was the first to gush praises and give his thumbs up.

"Indeed, with a beauty around, refining will be a breeze. This young master appreciates it, ha-ha-ha..."

They all sighed in admiration. Only one of the seven houses could employ such a method, to have thousands of alchemists paired with one disciple each.

Xiao Ya extended her hands at the 20 most prominent cauldrons, "Everyone has different masteries, and alchemists are no different. These 20 cauldrons are for the most outstanding alchemists. If you are confident, please stand in one of them."

The arena was quiet.

The majority of the thousands of alchemists here were of equal skill. There was no way to know who was the best. Except for a few superior figures around, who could say they were in the top twenty in this group?

Liu Yizhen twirled his mustache, his face beaming with pride, "Ha-ha-ha, alchemists may appear to be refining on the surface, but they are actually refining their mind. Without even a bit of confidence, will one be able to make any passable pill?"

"Grandmaster Liu is right. We don't know who among us is the best, but he is definitely among them!" Someone instantly spoke for Liu Yizhen.

Laughing towards the sky with pride, Liu Yizhen continued, "I am not conceited, only confident as an alchemist. To refine great pills, one must believe he is the best alchemist in the world."

"As such, I will not shy from my duty!" Liu Yizhen strutted to the first cauldron while laughing.

But his third step was welcomed by a cold shout, "You're in my way! Beat it!" Yan Fu stomped by him.

Liu Yizhen faltered and his face twitched, cursing inside, [Damnit! Why is this rotten prick here as well? Why join the Hundred Pill Meeting when he's already in Pill King Hall?]

"Isn't he the winner of the Great Alchemy Tournament in the imperial capital? Yan Fu of Pill King Hall? Why is he here?"

Someone recognized him and also peaked at Liu Yizhen's frozen state, whispering, "Grandmaster Liu, your opponent is here. What if..."

"Ha-ha-ha, Yan Fu is indeed an alchemy genius seen once a century. He managed to win last time. So, let him have this one, while I take the second cauldron!"

"I truly admire Grandmaster Liu's modesty!"

Liu Yizhen's light tone earned the crowd's praise. [A true grandmaster!] But how would they know Liu Yizhen was cursing Yan Fu in his heart.

[Wretched spawn, you got ahead of me in the imperial capital, and now you followed me to the Hundred Pill Meeting? Are you being hard on me on purpose?]

In the middle of his inner rant, an aged voice came.

"If you're not going, stand aside!"

An elderly shoved him, slowly moving forward. That green face got everyone scared. Liu Yizhen almost jumped in fright.

"Who is that old woman? Such a scary face. Is she also an alchemist?"

Liu Yizhen watched her figure dumbfounded, "Why her too?"

"Grandmaster Liu, do you know her?"

Liu Yizhen was close to cursing again, "Of course I do! 30 years ago, when I was a 2nd-grade alchemist, sage doctor Tao made a name for herself as a 5th-grade alchemist. She is as famous as the Vicious Pill King. But isn't she the head alchemist of the Drifting Flowers Edifice? What is she doing here?"

His words spread shock to others. There was actually someone equally renowned as Vicious Pill King!

No one had seen this coming. The small Hundred Pill Meeting was now a gathering of experts. But Liu Yizhen's forlorn figure eased their shock.

"He-he-he, Grandmaster Liu, don't be so down. Isn't there a third spot? It definitely belongs to Grandmaster Liu."

Liu Yizhen took a deep breath and stood up straighter as his eyes spat out flames of rage, "It is as you said. I may not be the first, or the second, but winners always come in threes. Even in third place, it will not be the least bit lacking from the first two."

[Uh, Grandmaster Liu, that's just self-comforting!]

They now realized their words of comfort were wasted on Grandmaster Liu, could contort anything to be positive.

"Don't block my way! Take a hike!"

Then, another aged man shouted. A green figure passed through the crowd, his eyes sending shivers through their bodies.

Vicious Pill King, Yan Song!

This scared them witless. Vicious Pill King, the head alchemist of Pill King Hall was joining the Hundred Pill Meeting as well? [The hell is he doing here?]

[For heaven's sake! You're the best in the empire for crying out loud! Can you be any more obnoxious?]

"Grandmaster Liu, your third place, seems to be gone!" Someone sympathized with Liu Yizhen's situation.

His lips trembled and Liu Yizhen felt more wronged than ever watching the three up there. Just then, someone ran into him hard, ruining his calm and lofty image as he broke out a string of curses, "We are all damn famous here, alright? Why in goddamned heaven are all of you taking part in this competition? Stealing my seat? You're going too damn far!"

The crowd froze, their faces twitching. They all thought to themselves.

[You're one to talk...]

Chapter 128, Qingtian's Back

Liu Yizhen ended up in fourth place, behind Yan Fu, Tao Danniang, and the Vicious Pill King.

In spite of all that, he accepted his spot without any complains. As for who was behind him, he had other more important things on his mind right now.

The rest of the spots were taken by people of renowned and unquestionable skill.

Xiao Ya smiled, "Everyone else, please move to the area in accordance with your clan's strength. The first-rate clans in front, second rate clans in the middle, and third rate clans in the back. Please take your positions."

This method also showed their relevant alchemy skills. It was a common fact first rate clans were better than second, who were better than the third.

It was also made easy for the great clans in the stands to see their abilities. It would've been an embarrassment if the third rate clans would've started making protests.

Drifting Flowers Edifice's consideration for everyone earned the admiration of many great clans.

The alchemists had nothing to say, moving to their spots. Now that thousands of alchemists were in the arena, they were ready for the competition to begin.

A bronze cauldron was laid before them, with a gorgeous Drifting Flowers Edifice disciple beside it.

With everyone seated, Xiao Ya smiled as she explained the details of the Hundred Pill Meeting, "The competition is divided into three rounds. Contestants will be eliminated in each round and only the top twenty alchemists will be worthy of stepping onto the final round, where we will finally decide on who is the Pill King!"

In other words, Drifting Flowers Edifice only cared about the first 20 alchemists.

The participants were sporting serious faces. They knew it would be hard, but it was not that disastrously hard.

Of the thousands of alchemists, only 20 would be allowed entry in the final round.

These 20 were without a doubt the best alchemists the Tianyu Empire had to offer. With their spots set, their position would be unshakable.

It could be said that not even 300 rounds would be enough for the other contestants to get a chance to earn one of the 20 spots.

The participants were vexed, while the 20 on the stage looked on with smiles of pride.

Xiao Ya had a flash of contempt in her eyes as she continued, "This meeting has gathered a wide variety of renowned alchemists from every corner of the empire. For this, Drifting Flowers Edifice prepared their most prized treasure as a reward for the winner."

Xiao Ya clapped and two disciples brought a red wooden box on the pedestal.

Xiao Ya flipped it open.

Something akin to a green root appeared before everyone. What was even more astonishing, was that the root throbbed like a heart.

Drifting Flowers Edifice's Bodhi Root.

None saw this coming. Drifting Flowers Edifice was staking their most amazing treasure in this meeting. Only a handful knew the true reason behind it, squinting when the item in question appeared on stage.

"Elder Yan, you must get it." Huangpu Qingyun clenched his fists in the eastern stand, eyeing the root with yearning

On the first stage, Vicious Pill King licked his lips, his heart throbbing to get his hands on it. He knew it was real too. All he had to do was win and the Bodhi Root was his.

"Humph, old dog, with me here, don't even dream of getting it!" Tao Danniang snorted.

Snickering, Vicious Pill King mocked, "Just you? How?"

Liu Yizhen realized now why Drifting Flowers Edifice's Hundred Pill Meeting attracted these two towering figures of alchemy in the empire. [They all came for this treasure!]

Liu Yizhen wiped his sweat and cried in his heart.

Forget about even winning against them, even if fantasy became reality, and he managed to win, with two tigers glaring at him, taking it would be a one-way ticket to the underworld.

[Curses! I shouldn't have come here.]

Liu Yizhen regretted it until his insides turned green. It was too late now though. Now that he was on stage, he'd lose his name if his performance was sub-par.

He considered himself fortunate, that he was not on their level and losing wasn't that much of a big deal.

Liu Yizhen sighed happily for the first time in life, that he was doomed to lose. His thoughts would've widened no few pairs of eyes.

[Grandmaster Liu, didn't you say just now that one has to be confident when refining? Why are you quitting before even starting?]

Each had their own thoughts. Yet, most decided to take a step back on this. In such an ardent competition, they didn't have the nerve to join.

Xiao Ya noticed the prevalent atmosphere but ignored it, "The target of the first round is... a 1st grade pill."

Those that already took a step back shivered with confidence. [Is there anyone who can't make it? Why the hell would we come here if we can't make one damned 1st grade pill?]

Xiao Ya continued, "A 1st grade is simple, but the method isn't, as well as the efficiency. In this first round, you will be competing with your refining skills. The alchemist must accomplish the refining of a 1st grade pill as soon as possible. Only the quickest hundred can advance."

What?!

This crushed their kindling hope to dust.

A competition involving thousands of participants had the first round eliminating most of them. Was it really necessary to be so cruel?

"I have with me a little bell, as do the Drifting Flowers Edifice's disciples. One ring gives the start and another the end. And, begin!"

Ding!

Xiao Ya directly rang her bell.

The competitors were startled. Then scrambled to get out their Yuan Qi flame and begin refining.

The top 20 alchemists sneered, not at all hurried.

It was more accurate to call this round a test of one's mind than that of speed. Getting worked up over such a minor thing, not even a 3rd-grade alchemist would be able to refine a 1st-grade pill.

"A bunch of morons!"

Vicious Pill King laughed coldly. His hand revealed a scarlet flame and he threw six ingredients inside. Under the naked eye, each ingredient was refined.

Every one of the 20 alchemists could do it, albeit not at the same speed.

Liu Yizhen sighed, [He is truly the best in the empire! Even when refining a 1st-grade pill, it shows how skillful he is.]

Tao Danniang was the second-fastest. She wasn't at all pleased but was aware of her limits.

Vicious Pill King mocked her, "I only used half of my skill. Just thought you should know. It's best you give up now if you can't do even this. Stop wasting your energy."

Humph!

Tao Danniang snorted. She knew it was a trick of his to shake her heart.

Up on the terrace, Chu Qingcheng's group was watching the two closely. They were worried since the difference in their speed was so great.

Urgent footsteps approached as an elderly shouted, "Chuchu, where's the kid who was with you?"

Chu Qingcheng turned to find Long Jiu, Xie Tianyang and Jian Suifeng watching her group in anxiety.

"It was too dangerous here and I-I made him leave!" Chu Qingcheng watched them strangely, not knowing what their connection was with Song Yu to be so worried about him.

But her words threw them in a panic.

"What? He left?! Then who is competing with Vicious Pill King?" Xie Tianyang asked unsettled.

This baffled Chu Qingcheng and the two overseers. How could a mere third rate clan young master be a match for Vicious Pill King?

"Humph, forget about facing Vicious Pill King, when that brat left, he didn't even waste time." Peony Overseer recalled Zhuo's attitude with coldness.

Long Jiu's group was gloomy.

Zhuo Fan ran, so what were they staying around here for, as patsies? He was the one who mentioned allying and they even offended Regent Estate for his sake. Yet, he was the first to run away without hesitation?

"Bastard! Did he just sell me out again?" Xie Tianyang frowned and spat in rage.

Then, a sudden sobbing came. It was Xiao Dandan and the Dong siblings running up the stairs. Chu Qingcheng was anxious, "Why are you back?"

"Sister Qingcheng, master! Darling left us behind and rushed back. Did you see him?"

"What? Song Yu came back as well?" Chu Qingcheng's group raised their eyebrows in shock.

Before they could find out more, Xie Tianyang jumped in, "Sister in law, you're saying that punk didn't leave and came back instead? Ha-ha-ha, he didn't sell me out! Where is he, tell me?"

Xiao Dandan didn't even get to reply to the 'sister in law' part as Xie Tianyang was immediately actively searching for Zhuo Fan through the thousands of participants.

"Damn it! The Vicious Pill King's almost done!" Iris Overseer gnashed her teeth.

They all focused on the old man and indeed, The Vicious Pill King's pill needed only a few seconds more.

Tao Danniang however needed a minute.

They all knew what that meant. The first round had its winner and their moods sank.

Tao Danniang couldn't gain the advantage even when refining a 1st-grade pill, which spoke volumes of how their competition would be when refining higher graded pills. Chu Qingcheng's heart sank to the bottom of the abyss.

Her final hope was fading!

Yan Fu saw Vicious Pill King's pill and bowed, "Master, you're the best there is!"

"Naturally!" Vicious Pill King laughed, throwing a mocking glance towards Tao Danniang.

A ding sounded at that moment. Far in the third-rated clans' area, the bell rang.

There was someone here who could refine faster than the best alchemist in the empire?

Who?

Whoosh!

They turned to see where the ringing came from.

But what appeared before them was a black-robed figure with the heaven-toppling pill words inscribed on it!

"Chu Qingtian!"

Yan Fu's eyelids trembled as he cried out...

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