"What are you talking about? Our Jiang Clan and Zhou Clan are in-laws; we're all family and there's no need for formalities."
Jiang Chen said with a smile, maintaining his polite demeanor.
"It's getting rather late."
"Although we've provided Brother Ruiyu's injury with some basic treatment, he still requires more comprehensive care. Let's head back early!"
Jiang Xingtai suggested.
"Alright!"
Jiang Chen nodded in agreement, then gestured towards Lin Feng's body and inquired, "So, what shall we do with Lin Feng's body?"
"I initially intended to crush his bones to dust and scatter them to the wind."
"However, I am currently unable to use my Yuan Power."
"Furthermore, it was Nephew Jiang Chen who defeated Lin Feng."
Zhou Ruiyu stated, "So, let Nephew Jiang Chen handle it."
In reality, he was still capable of disposing of the corpse at this moment.
Yet, the person had been vanquished by Jiang Chen.
And Jiang Chen was incredibly formidable!
He didn't know the full extent of Jiang Chen's power, but he recognized that it certainly surpassed the Middle-stage Mysterious Platform realm in terms of strength!
With such might, he could already dominate not only Autumn Glory City but many other neighboring cities as well!
In this world, the strong were revered. Whoever possessed the greater strength would rise to the top.
Though Zhou Ruiyu referred to Jiang Chen as his nephew, he had already begun to regard him with a mixture of fear and respect in his heart.
"Very well."
"I shall assist you in crushing his bones to dust and scattering them to the wind, to alleviate your resentment!"
Jiang Chen nodded slightly, then waved his hand, releasing a terrifyingly cold qi that instantly froze Lin Feng's corpse into a solid block of ice.
Immediately following that,
Jiang Chen's mind shifted, and a powerful force descended upon the ice block containing Lin Feng's corpse, shattering it into a mound of frosty powder.
At that moment, a gust of wind swept through.
The powdered remnants of Lin Feng's corpse were scattered by the breeze, vanishing in the blink of an eye.
"He's completely gone now. Let's go!"
A faint smile graced the corner of Jiang Chen's mouth as he turned around and soared towards Autumn Glory City.
Jiang Xingtai trailed closely behind, accompanied by Zhou Ruiyu.
Though he had already displayed some of his prowess,
Jiang Chen endeavored to conceal as much as possible. Utilizing the Moondust Ring, he diminished his cultivation aura to resemble that of the Spiritual Awakening realm.
Subsequently, Jiang Chen prompted Jiang Xingtai to discreetly advise Zhou Ruiyu against disclosing his genuine abilities.
Zhou Ruiyu comprehended.
In due course, Jiang Chen was destined to become the preeminent expert in Autumn Glory City, so he wholeheartedly concurred.
In the mere blink of an eye,
The trio found themselves back in Autumn Glory City.
Zhou Ruiyu was greeted by his clan members,
While Jiang Chen and Jiang Xingtai proceeded toward the Jiang Clan's estate.
As they neared the entrance,
Two guards, garbed in meticulously crafted attire, stood tall and dignified, swords sheathed at their waists.
The clan's emblem—a winding river etched in gold—was expertly embroidered on their chests.
These guards were identical twins,
Their visages weathered and resolute, their sharp, focused eyes conveying a wealth of experience.
Upon identifying the Patriarch and the Eldest Young Master, the guards promptly bowed and saluted.
"Welcome back, Patriarch, Eldest Young Master."
The guard on the right, his countenance reflecting both reverence and loyalty, spoke up.
"Thank you, your diligence is always appreciated."
Jiang Xingtai responded with a warm and grateful smile.
"It is our honor to serve the Jiang Clan."
The other guard, his eyes alight with pride, joined in.
As they passed through the grand entrance,
A female servant, clad in a modest yet refined blue robe, approached them, a warm smile gracing her face.
"The visitors who arrived not long ago, where are they?"
Jiang Chen inquired.
"Greetings, Eldest Young Master. The guests you mention are currently in the Ninth Young Lady's courtyard."
The servant replied, her voice brimming with respect.
Jiang Chen acknowledged her with a nod.
Then,
With purposeful strides, he and Jiang Xingtai proceeded toward Jiang Yuqian's courtyard.
As they ambled through the estate,
Lush gardens and venerable trees welcomed them.
Graceful stone bridges spanned placid koi ponds, cultivating a serene ambiance.
Meandering cobblestone paths guided them past traditional pavilions, where clan members honed their skills or unwound.
Refined wooden lattice windows adorned stately edifices, casting intricate patterns of sunlight upon the ground.
The aroma of fragrant blossoms pervaded the air as they approached the courtyard.
'Time to display my acting prowess once more.'
'Forgive me, Ning Xian, I promise not to repeat this in the future!'
Jiang Chen exhaled deeply, and his rosy complexion swiftly paled. His erect posture also slackened, appearing feeble.
Without further ado,
He 'bore his injuries' and stepped into the courtyard.
"Young Master Jiang Chen!"
"Big brother, are you well? Yuqian has been so anxious for you!"
"Patriarch Jiang, have you and Young Master Jiang Chen vanquished Lin Feng?"
"Young friend Jiang Chen, no assault transpired here. What of your end?"
"..."
Beaming faces greeted them in succession.
Du Bailei, Jiang Yuqian, Elder Ge...
Yet, just as Jiang Chen prepared to address each of them,
A wail resounded.
"Master! Master!"
"Don't perish, don't abandon Ning Xian!"
"Master! Hang on, I vow to master medicine and alchemy to aid your recovery!"
"..."
It was Ning Xian's lament!
It seemed as though Qiu Liaoxi's injuries were too grave for her to endure.
"How could this be?"
Jiang Xingtai inquired in bewilderment, "Weren't Qiu Liaoxi's injuries relatively minor?"
"She was afflicted by Lin Feng's 'wrath'."
Jiang Chen shook his head faintly, recognizing that Qiu Liaoxi had not evaded her destiny after all...
Yet this was precisely what he had anticipated.
Subsequently,
He glanced at his uncle Jiang Xingtai beside him.
Originally, Jiang Xingtai's Fate Value was a mere few hundred points, barely higher than Qiu Liaoxi's.
However, now, with Lin Feng's demise,
His Fate Value had indeed risen slightly, so there ought to be no issues for the time being.
"I'll go take a look."
Jiang Chen stepped forward and proceeded ahead.
Soon.
Jiang Chen reached the room where Ning Xian, Alchemist Xie, and Qiu Liaoxi were situated.
After knocking on the door to announce his presence,
He entered.
Upon first glance, he saw the injured Qiu Liaoxi lying on the bed, seemingly unconscious.
Alchemist Xie stood beside her, evidently utilizing her Yuan Power, attempting to save her.
Meanwhile, the pitiable Ning Xian was kneeling beside the bed, clutching her master's legs and weeping.
"Ning Xian."
Jiang Chen approached Ning Xian and gently patted her shoulder, softly calling her name.
"Jiang Chen, Master...wuwuwu!"
Ning Xian turned to face Jiang Chen, tears cascading down her swollen eyes like spring water. She couldn't help but throw herself into Jiang Chen's embrace.
"Don't worry, I am here now!"
Jiang Chen patted her on the back, speaking in a comforting tone.
Then.
"Alchemist Xie, what happened?"
"Is there a way to save her?"
He directed his gaze toward the weary Alchemist Xie and inquired.
"Sigh, I'm not sure what occurred, Young Master!"
"Everything was fine not long ago, but for some unknown reason, her body became incredibly weak!"
"So much so that her meridians are unable to circulate the medicinal power to heal her injuries!"
"Moreover, the impurities of each pill taken have turned into a potent poison, ravaging her vital organs!"
"That's why I am using my Yuan Power to help alleviate her pain; it's the least I can do!"
Alchemist Xie sighed softly, explaining the situation, and added with a helpless expression, "As for saving Alchemist Qui, we need at least a Spiritual Awakening rank healing pill of top-grade quality, devoid of impurities, and with a gentle medicinal power. Unfortunately, such a pill is impossible to find in all of Autumn Glory City."
What Alchemist Xie said held true.
Not a single alchemist in all of Autumn Glory City, nor the surrounding cities, could refine high-rank pills of top-grade quality.
Only Lin Feng could have achieved that feat, but it would have taken him some time.
And by then.
Qiu Liaoxi would have already perished.
After all, her demise in the original plot was the catalyst for the protagonist to leave the novice village and embark on a new journey.
However.
Things were different with Jiang Chen.
After browsing his system mall and redeeming the appropriate pill.
"How about these pills? Do they meet the criteria?"
Jiang Chen spoke suddenly, as a bottle containing three identical pills materialized in his hand.
Upon hearing these words,
Ning Xian, who was still crying in Jiang Chen's embrace, looked at the bottle.
Her pearly eyes filled with hope, as this was not the first time that Jiang Chen had created miracles.
As for Alchemist Xie, she was initially skeptical.
But then, as she took the bottle and examined the pills inside,
"How is this possible!"
"Young Master, this is the right pill!"
"We can save Alchemist Qui now!"
Alchemist Xie's face initially displayed astonishment, but it soon turned to elation as she exclaimed,
"That is good to hear!"
"She doesn't have much time; begin the treatment, Alchemist Xie."
Jiang Chen urged with a sigh of relief.
Additionally, this prevented the two women from asking too many questions.
Upon hearing these words,
Both women regained their composure.
Alchemist Xie immediately initiated the treatment.
Meanwhile, Ning Xian lifted her head and gazed intently at Jiang Chen's striking face.
After a brief pause,
"Jiang Chen, I cannot thank you enough! I..."
Ning Xian parted her rosy lips, attempting to convey her appreciation.
However, before she could complete her sentence,
"What are you talking about? There's no need for gratitude."
"Rescuing your master was the least I could do."
"You see, your happiness means everything to me."
"I would do anything to safeguard you and those you cherish, always."
Delicately wiping away her tears, Jiang Chen peered deeply into her eyes, his own brimming with warmth. He whispered, "Am I the only one feeling this way?"
Upon hearing his words,
Ning Xian was momentarily taken aback, astonished by his unexpected confession.
Her heart started to race as warmth spread throughout her body.
Her cheeks flushed a delicate pink, and she bashfully looked down for a moment, collecting her thoughts.
Then, she raised her eyes back to his.
After a brief pause,
"Your happiness means everything to me too."
Ning Xian responded softly, a brilliant smile gradually spread across her face, illuminating her eyes and exposing the depth of her emotions.
[Ding! You have successfully won the heart of the heroine Ning Xian!]
[Ding! You have gained 3000 points of Villain Value!]
[Ding! Congratulations on successfully capturing the heart of a heroine for the first time!]
[Ding! You have obtained 'Heaven-Defying Fate Changer - Eternal Vows Binding Ring'!]
[Ding! A new entry Intimacy (Only for women) has been added to the Villain's Eye's information panel!]
[Intimacy: It measures the depth of emotional and physical connection between the host and any woman. 0-10: Indifferent; 11-30: Curious; 31-50: Friendly; 51-70: Attracted; 71-80: Infatuated; 81-99: In Love; 100: Boundless Love.]
A series of system notifications echoed in Jiang Chen's mind.
"I'm so 'happy' to hear that."
Jiang Chen smiled warmly, his voice steady and reassuring.
He then extended his hand and gently grasped hers.
Simultaneously,
With a single thought, Jiang Chen activated his Villain's Eye.
[Name: Ning Xian
Realm: Middle-stage Elemental Movement
Status: Heroine (Heart Captured)
Intimacy: 95 (In Love)
Fate Value: 2000]
'This 'Intimacy' is incredibly useful!'
'I won't have to be overly cautious relying on this.'
'Additionally, her Fate Value seems to have decreased slightly!'
'Perhaps, it is connected to severing ties with Lin Feng.'
'Well, it doesn't matter now.'
'Later on, I'll assist her in advancing her realm.'
Jiang Chen contemplated in his heart.
Abruptly,
"Groan!"
A low, indistinct sound emerged, drawing the attention of Ning Xian and Jiang Chen.
Tracing the source,
They saw the bedridden Qiu Liaoxi, whose complexion had significantly improved, gradually opening her eyes.
"What happened?"
Qiu Liaoxi initially felt disoriented, but then asked feebly.
"Master, you're awake!"
Ning Xian exclaimed, her face reflecting her relief and joy.
Qiu Liaoxi attempted to sit up, but grimaced in pain.
Alchemist Xie promptly aided her by propping up some pillows, while Ning Xian held her hand.
Recognizing that there was little more he could contribute,
Jiang Chen discreetly slipped out of the room.
PS: Only one chapter today.
"What are you talking about? Our Jiang Clan and Zhou Clan are in-laws; we're all family and there's no need for formalities."
Jiang Chen said with a smile, maintaining his polite demeanor.
"It's getting rather late."
"Although we've provided Brother Ruiyu's injury with some basic treatment, he still requires more comprehensive care. Let's head back early!"
Jiang Xingtai suggested.
"Alright!"
Jiang Chen nodded in agreement, then gestured towards Lin Feng's body and inquired, "So, what shall we do with Lin Feng's body?"
"I initially intended to crush his bones to dust and scatter them to the wind."
"However, I am currently unable to use my Yuan Power."
"Furthermore, it was Nephew Jiang Chen who defeated Lin Feng."
Zhou Ruiyu stated, "So, let Nephew Jiang Chen handle it."
In reality, he was still capable of disposing of the corpse at this moment.
Yet, the person had been vanquished by Jiang Chen.
And Jiang Chen was incredibly formidable!
He didn't know the full extent of Jiang Chen's power, but he recognized that it certainly surpassed the Middle-stage Mysterious Platform realm in terms of strength!
With such might, he could already dominate not only Autumn Glory City but many other neighboring cities as well!
In this world, the strong were revered. Whoever possessed the greater strength would rise to the top.
Though Zhou Ruiyu referred to Jiang Chen as his nephew, he had already begun to regard him with a mixture of fear and respect in his heart.
"Very well."
"I shall assist you in crushing his bones to dust and scattering them to the wind, to alleviate your resentment!"
Jiang Chen nodded slightly, then waved his hand, releasing a terrifyingly cold qi that instantly froze Lin Feng's corpse into a solid block of ice.
Immediately following that,
Jiang Chen's mind shifted, and a powerful force descended upon the ice block containing Lin Feng's corpse, shattering it into a mound of frosty powder.
At that moment, a gust of wind swept through.
The powdered remnants of Lin Feng's corpse were scattered by the breeze, vanishing in the blink of an eye.
"He's completely gone now. Let's go!"
A faint smile graced the corner of Jiang Chen's mouth as he turned around and soared towards Autumn Glory City.
Jiang Xingtai trailed closely behind, accompanied by Zhou Ruiyu.
Though he had already displayed some of his prowess,
Jiang Chen endeavored to conceal as much as possible. Utilizing the Moondust Ring, he diminished his cultivation aura to resemble that of the Spiritual Awakening realm.
Subsequently, Jiang Chen prompted Jiang Xingtai to discreetly advise Zhou Ruiyu against disclosing his genuine abilities.
Zhou Ruiyu comprehended.
In due course, Jiang Chen was destined to become the preeminent expert in Autumn Glory City, so he wholeheartedly concurred.
In the mere blink of an eye,
The trio found themselves back in Autumn Glory City.
Zhou Ruiyu was greeted by his clan members,
While Jiang Chen and Jiang Xingtai proceeded toward the Jiang Clan's estate.
As they neared the entrance,
Two guards, garbed in meticulously crafted attire, stood tall and dignified, swords sheathed at their waists.
The clan's emblem—a winding river etched in gold—was expertly embroidered on their chests.
These guards were identical twins,
Their visages weathered and resolute, their sharp, focused eyes conveying a wealth of experience.
Upon identifying the Patriarch and the Eldest Young Master, the guards promptly bowed and saluted.
"Welcome back, Patriarch, Eldest Young Master."
The guard on the right, his countenance reflecting both reverence and loyalty, spoke up.
"Thank you, your diligence is always appreciated."
Jiang Xingtai responded with a warm and grateful smile.
"It is our honor to serve the Jiang Clan."
The other guard, his eyes alight with pride, joined in.
As they passed through the grand entrance,
A female servant, clad in a modest yet refined blue robe, approached them, a warm smile gracing her face.
"The visitors who arrived not long ago, where are they?"
Jiang Chen inquired.
"Greetings, Eldest Young Master. The guests you mention are currently in the Ninth Young Lady's courtyard."
The servant replied, her voice brimming with respect.
Jiang Chen acknowledged her with a nod.
Then,
With purposeful strides, he and Jiang Xingtai proceeded toward Jiang Yuqian's courtyard.
As they ambled through the estate,
Lush gardens and venerable trees welcomed them.
Graceful stone bridges spanned placid koi ponds, cultivating a serene ambiance.
Meandering cobblestone paths guided them past traditional pavilions, where clan members honed their skills or unwound.
Refined wooden lattice windows adorned stately edifices, casting intricate patterns of sunlight upon the ground.
The aroma of fragrant blossoms pervaded the air as they approached the courtyard.
'Time to display my acting prowess once more.'
'Forgive me, Ning Xian, I promise not to repeat this in the future!'
Jiang Chen exhaled deeply, and his rosy complexion swiftly paled. His erect posture also slackened, appearing feeble.
Without further ado,
He 'bore his injuries' and stepped into the courtyard.
"Young Master Jiang Chen!"
"Big brother, are you well? Yuqian has been so anxious for you!"
"Patriarch Jiang, have you and Young Master Jiang Chen vanquished Lin Feng?"
"Young friend Jiang Chen, no assault transpired here. What of your end?"
"..."
Beaming faces greeted them in succession.
Du Bailei, Jiang Yuqian, Elder Ge...
Yet, just as Jiang Chen prepared to address each of them,
A wail resounded.
"Master! Master!"
"Don't perish, don't abandon Ning Xian!"
"Master! Hang on, I vow to master medicine and alchemy to aid your recovery!"
"..."
It was Ning Xian's lament!
It seemed as though Qiu Liaoxi's injuries were too grave for her to endure.
"How could this be?"
Jiang Xingtai inquired in bewilderment, "Weren't Qiu Liaoxi's injuries relatively minor?"
"She was afflicted by Lin Feng's 'wrath'."
Jiang Chen shook his head faintly, recognizing that Qiu Liaoxi had not evaded her destiny after all...
Yet this was precisely what he had anticipated.
Subsequently,
He glanced at his uncle Jiang Xingtai beside him.
Originally, Jiang Xingtai's Fate Value was a mere few hundred points, barely higher than Qiu Liaoxi's.
However, now, with Lin Feng's demise,
His Fate Value had indeed risen slightly, so there ought to be no issues for the time being.
"I'll go take a look."
Jiang Chen stepped forward and proceeded ahead.
Soon.
Jiang Chen reached the room where Ning Xian, Alchemist Xie, and Qiu Liaoxi were situated.
After knocking on the door to announce his presence,
He entered.
Upon first glance, he saw the injured Qiu Liaoxi lying on the bed, seemingly unconscious.
Alchemist Xie stood beside her, evidently utilizing her Yuan Power, attempting to save her.
Meanwhile, the pitiable Ning Xian was kneeling beside the bed, clutching her master's legs and weeping.
"Ning Xian."
Jiang Chen approached Ning Xian and gently patted her shoulder, softly calling her name.
"Jiang Chen, Master...wuwuwu!"
Ning Xian turned to face Jiang Chen, tears cascading down her swollen eyes like spring water. She couldn't help but throw herself into Jiang Chen's embrace.
"Don't worry, I am here now!"
Jiang Chen patted her on the back, speaking in a comforting tone.
Then.
"Alchemist Xie, what happened?"
"Is there a way to save her?"
He directed his gaze toward the weary Alchemist Xie and inquired.
"Sigh, I'm not sure what occurred, Young Master!"
"Everything was fine not long ago, but for some unknown reason, her body became incredibly weak!"
"So much so that her meridians are unable to circulate the medicinal power to heal her injuries!"
"Moreover, the impurities of each pill taken have turned into a potent poison, ravaging her vital organs!"
"That's why I am using my Yuan Power to help alleviate her pain; it's the least I can do!"
Alchemist Xie sighed softly, explaining the situation, and added with a helpless expression, "As for saving Alchemist Qui, we need at least a Spiritual Awakening rank healing pill of top-grade quality, devoid of impurities, and with a gentle medicinal power. Unfortunately, such a pill is impossible to find in all of Autumn Glory City."
What Alchemist Xie said held true.
Not a single alchemist in all of Autumn Glory City, nor the surrounding cities, could refine high-rank pills of top-grade quality.
Only Lin Feng could have achieved that feat, but it would have taken him some time.
And by then.
Qiu Liaoxi would have already perished.
After all, her demise in the original plot was the catalyst for the protagonist to leave the novice village and embark on a new journey.
However.
Things were different with Jiang Chen.
After browsing his system mall and redeeming the appropriate pill.
"How about these pills? Do they meet the criteria?"
Jiang Chen spoke suddenly, as a bottle containing three identical pills materialized in his hand.
Upon hearing these words,
Ning Xian, who was still crying in Jiang Chen's embrace, looked at the bottle.
Her pearly eyes filled with hope, as this was not the first time that Jiang Chen had created miracles.
As for Alchemist Xie, she was initially skeptical.
But then, as she took the bottle and examined the pills inside,
"How is this possible!"
"Young Master, this is the right pill!"
"We can save Alchemist Qui now!"
Alchemist Xie's face initially displayed astonishment, but it soon turned to elation as she exclaimed,
"That is good to hear!"
"She doesn't have much time; begin the treatment, Alchemist Xie."
Jiang Chen urged with a sigh of relief.
Additionally, this prevented the two women from asking too many questions.
Upon hearing these words,
Both women regained their composure.
Alchemist Xie immediately initiated the treatment.
Meanwhile, Ning Xian lifted her head and gazed intently at Jiang Chen's striking face.
After a brief pause,
"Jiang Chen, I cannot thank you enough! I..."
Ning Xian parted her rosy lips, attempting to convey her appreciation.
However, before she could complete her sentence,
"What are you talking about? There's no need for gratitude."
"Rescuing your master was the least I could do."
"You see, your happiness means everything to me."
"I would do anything to safeguard you and those you cherish, always."
Delicately wiping away her tears, Jiang Chen peered deeply into her eyes, his own brimming with warmth. He whispered, "Am I the only one feeling this way?"
Upon hearing his words,
Ning Xian was momentarily taken aback, astonished by his unexpected confession.
Her heart started to race as warmth spread throughout her body.
Her cheeks flushed a delicate pink, and she bashfully looked down for a moment, collecting her thoughts.
Then, she raised her eyes back to his.
After a brief pause,
"Your happiness means everything to me too."
Ning Xian responded softly, a brilliant smile gradually spread across her face, illuminating her eyes and exposing the depth of her emotions.
[Ding! You have successfully won the heart of the heroine Ning Xian!]
[Ding! You have gained 3000 points of Villain Value!]
[Ding! Congratulations on successfully capturing the heart of a heroine for the first time!]
[Ding! You have obtained 'Heaven-Defying Fate Changer - Eternal Vows Binding Ring'!]
[Ding! A new entry Intimacy (Only for women) has been added to the Villain's Eye's information panel!]
[Intimacy: It measures the depth of emotional and physical connection between the host and any woman. 0-10: Indifferent; 11-30: Curious; 31-50: Friendly; 51-70: Attracted; 71-80: Infatuated; 81-99: In Love; 100: Boundless Love.]
A series of system notifications echoed in Jiang Chen's mind.
"I'm so 'happy' to hear that."
Jiang Chen smiled warmly, his voice steady and reassuring.
He then extended his hand and gently grasped hers.
Simultaneously,
With a single thought, Jiang Chen activated his Villain's Eye.
[Name: Ning Xian
Realm: Middle-stage Elemental Movement
Status: Heroine (Heart Captured)
Intimacy: 95 (In Love)
Fate Value: 2000]
'This 'Intimacy' is incredibly useful!'
'I won't have to be overly cautious relying on this.'
'Additionally, her Fate Value seems to have decreased slightly!'
'Perhaps, it is connected to severing ties with Lin Feng.'
'Well, it doesn't matter now.'
'Later on, I'll assist her in advancing her realm.'
Jiang Chen contemplated in his heart.
Abruptly,
"Groan!"
A low, indistinct sound emerged, drawing the attention of Ning Xian and Jiang Chen.
Tracing the source,
They saw the bedridden Qiu Liaoxi, whose complexion had significantly improved, gradually opening her eyes.
"What happened?"
Qiu Liaoxi initially felt disoriented, but then asked feebly.
"Master, you're awake!"
Ning Xian exclaimed, her face reflecting her relief and joy.
Qiu Liaoxi attempted to sit up, but grimaced in pain.
Alchemist Xie promptly aided her by propping up some pillows, while Ning Xian held her hand.
Recognizing that there was little more he could contribute,
Jiang Chen discreetly slipped out of the room.
PS: Only one chapter today.
