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Table of Contents
Credits
Chapter 1 - Soul of a Mage
Chapter 2 - Trading Division
Chapter 3 - Library
Chapter 4 - Elder brother and Junior sister
Chapter 5 - Accepting a Master at the Hall of Mages
Chapter 6 - Kong Wen
Chapter 7 - Blue birthmark
Chapter 8 - Percentage
Chapter 9 - Legendary Soul
Chapter 10 - Discovery in the Medicine Garden
Chapter 11 - Repeat encounter with a 'familiar persons'
Chapter 12 - The danger of magic pills
Chapter 13 - The Force of the Soul
Chapter 14 - A Long Way to Go
Chapter 15 - Discovering the dimension
Chapter 16 - Precision control
Chapter 17 - The first time in the limelight
Chapter 18 - Success rate
Chapter 19 - Before going down the mountain.
Chapter 20 - Accumulate energy pill
Chapter 21 - Life story and the winged bird

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Chapter 22 - Magic pill shop.
Chapter 23 - First bundle of riches.
Chapter 24 - Wooden furnishings shop
Chapter 25 - Ridiculous fate.
Chapter 26 - Unfair conditions
Chapter 27 - The truth beneath the gentleness
Chapter 28 - Heartfelt wish
Chapter 29 - The most difficult magic pill.
Chapter 30 - I ate it.
Chapter 31 - Alchemical technique
Chapter 32 - Earth peak disciple
Chapter 33 - Key moment
Chapter 34 - Heavenly Soul Scroll
Chapter 35 - Uproar in the canteen
Chapter 36 - Manuscript
Chapter 37 - Face to face.
Chapter 38 - Formal disciple.
Chapter 39 - Lecture at the Skylark Hall
Chapter 40 - Four days
Chapter 41 - Jealousy
Chapter 42 - Consoling
Chapter 43 - Miscalculation
Chapter 44 - Separate ways
Chapter 45 - Bearded man

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Chapter 46 - Unlucky You XiaoMo
Chapter 47 - Secret exposed
Chapter 48 - Magic water dimension
Chapter 49 - Take off your clothes
Chapter 50 - Deal
Chapter 51 - Uncle Pu Chan
Chapter 52 - Grand plan
Chapter 53 - Pleasant surprise
Chapter 54 - Spot on the list
Chapter 55 - Warrior division's WuShuang Mountain
Chapter 56 - Dream
Chapter 57 - Mistakenly touched
Chapter 58 - Top grade magic pills
Chapter 59 - Pick up
Chapter 60 - Share a room
Chapter 61 - Sleep with me
Chapter 62 - Sit on my lap
Chapter 63 - Lifespan
Chapter 64 - Lei Ju's provocation
Chapter 65 - Black figure outside the window
Chapter 66 - First night
Chapter 67 - As long as you help me
Chapter 68 - Help one another
Chapter 69 - Trust

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Chapter 70 - Pretentious bastard
Chapter 71 - Jiang Liu
Chapter 72 - Missing
Chapter 73 - Kidnapped
Chapter 74 - Eating people?
Chapter 75 - First awakening of love?
Chapter 76 - Looting ice sculptures
Chapter 77 - Confrontation
Chapter 78 - Opportunity
Chapter 79 - The most vicious way to win
Chapter 80 - Something substantive
Chapter 81 - Man and man
Chapter 82 - ?
Chapter 83 - Kong Wen's questions
Chapter 84 - Breakthrough to the second level
Chapter 85 - Really no improvement
Chapter 86 - Meat pie from heaven
Chapter 87 - Kong Wen's aim
Chapter 88 - Wishing the heavens would open
Chapter 89 - "Successful pitch"
Chapter 90 - One more kiss
Chapter 91 - Level two magic pills
Chapter 92 - Awkward Feelings
Chapter 93 - Master Of Magic Herb Cultivation

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Chapter 94 - Assessment (I)
Chapter 96 - Magic Pill Evaluation
Chapter 97 - In The Limelight
Chapter 98 - Inner demons of the void.
Chapter 99 - Blood Pact Seed
Chapter 100 - Magic Pill Formula

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Credits

Translation Group - s3ri

EPUB/PDF - RnD Novels Team

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Chapter 1 - Soul of a Mage
You XiaoMo stands in front of a mirror, blinking at the stranger
inside the mirror. After exhausting a lot brain cells, he is finally
willing to believe the fact that his soul is currently attached to a
stranger's body. The youth in the mirror is about 17 to 18 years old.
Roughly his own age. He is wearing a long blue traditional Chinese
robe with a common blue-green hairpin on the top of his head, with
jet-black hair. It all gives him an otherworldly look. However he
seems somewhat pale, especially his lips, completely lacking color, as
if he had just received a heavy blow, the pretty pair of eyes are very
red and swollen like walnuts. You XiaoMo feels haggard of a sudden,
not used to the sudden change in his face.

After lamenting Spring and Autumn for a moment, You XiaoMo

finally evaluates the room he is in. It is extremely sparse. A wooden
bed, a wooden table, a wooden chair and a wooden counter on
which the mirror is placed. Not a trace of the unnecessary. Although
simple, it is filled with a rustic feel, simply the style of ancient times.
Connecting this with the clothing on his body, his otherworldly look,
You XiaoMo makes the sad discovery that he has been transported
to the backward ancient times. But he is modern man! He clearly
remembers that the gas leak next door caused an explosion,
implicating him, the innocent neighbor, exploding him into this
stranger's body. Although this sounds outrageous, it is indeed reality.
After a little struggle, You XiaoMo decides to go with the flow.

After putting on his shoes, just when he was about to open the door
and go out figure out the situation, the door is suddenly pushed
open from the outside, at once making him jump in shock. The other
person quickly dodges, narrowly missing colliding into You XiaoMo,
both gasping in surprise at the same time.

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"You XiaoMo, you're finally willing to get out of bed?"

You XiaoMo is certain that only he himself knows his name, so this
person must be calling the original host of this body. Looks like
heaven is still treating him alright, giving him the body of one with
the same name.

You XiaoMo examines the incomer. A handsome youth about his

own age with a very sunny smile. But what do his words mean, what
'You're finally willing to get out of bed', don't tell me he has a bad
habit of being lazy? Without waiting for him to ask, the young man
starts to speak.

"You XiaoMo, you should not lose heart. Even though your soul has a
green aura, at least you can still become an intermediate level mage.
You must know that intermediate level mages are still very rare.
Some people can only remain as low level mages their whole life.
Therefore you should not be broken-hearted. Tomorrow morning
you have to go to the Mage's hall. You have to pick yourself up."

You XiaoMo feels his head spinning and his brain swelling. What
green aura, what intermediate level mage? Why does he not
understand? But on the whole he starts to understand a little. Maybe
because this body has a green aura soul, making him feel like he is
wearing a green hat? So he hides in his room broken-hearted and
secretly crying, finally dropping dead after excess grief? You XiaoMo
covers his face, such a way to die, how shameful!

"Then what about you?" You XiaoMo asks cautiously.

Right now, he only knows this young man. He can only try to extract
information on this dimension from him. But he is afraid that the
young man will discover that he is not the real You XiaoMo,

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therefore he can't ask him straight out. However, he doesn't know
that they have not known each other for long, furthermore, after
finding out that his talent is too inferior, he had locked himself
inside, refusing to go out, therefore it is understandable that he is
not aware of a lot of things. The young man immediately grins
widely, unable to contain his joy, and says bashfully while scratching
his head,

"My aura is blue."

One look and it is clear that a blue aura is a good thing, but he still
does not understand a thing ah!

"This, I don't really understand, these few days my head has been
muddled, forgetting a lot of things, can you tell me more?"

You XiaoMo asks sheepishly, afraid to look at directly at him, afraid

that he would become suspicious. The young man seems to be
oblivious, completely unsuspecting, revealing all that he knows,
including the place where they are currently at, saying all there is to
be said. After listening to it all, You XiaoMo is rendered speechless.
Shock upon shock in his mind, to the extent that he has no idea when
the young man left the room.

This world is completely different from the one he knew. He has

entered into the biggest sect in the Long Xiang continent, TianXin
sect. To be precise, he is just a probationary disciple. Furthermore,
TianXin sect is divided into two divisions. The Warrior division are
martial artists. Their souls do not have colored auras but they can
practice various energy control and martial arts techniques. And the
other is the Mage division. All mages have colored auras. The colors
are separated into three, six, nine levels, from light to dark: pink,
yellow, green, teal, blue and purple. Pink and yellow auras can only

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become low level mages. Light green and green auras can become
intermediate level mages. Blue and purple auras can become high
level mages. However the potential for the latter is much bigger than
the former. For example, the purple aura, its potential is much more
than the blue aura. Therefore there is hope of becoming a top level
mage.

Blue aura, means a future high level mage. No wonder the young
man has such an elated expression. As for the host of this body, he is
a probationary disciple of the mage division. Brought back here three
days ago by the elders of the TianXin sect. The original host is a little
arrogant, but during the evaluation test, he found out that his
aptitude is unexpectedly the worst among everyone. Unable to
accept it, he hid himself in the room crying. This kid, such appalling
mental fortitude! On top of that, he learned a very important piece
of information. Because he is a probationary disciple, he must pass
the assessment half a year later, or else he would be driven out of
TianXin sect. TianXin sect is the largest sect in Long Xiang continent,
with very stringent requirements for their disciples, especially for
mages. If they are unable to produce the required product half a year
later, they will be swept out the door. Look up and see no one
familiar, You XiaoMo with a brain that still has not connected to the
right track of this world, this news is undoubtedly like thunder from
a clear sky.

Notes:
lamenting Spring and Autumn - feeling sentimental
wear a green hat - weakling
three, six, nine grades - various rank and levels
look up and see no one familiar - stranger in a strange land
thunder from a clear sky - bolt from the blue

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Chapter 2 - Trading Division

After leaving the room, You XiaoMo finally finds out the name of the
young man with the blue aura. He is called Jiang Liu. He actually lives
next door. In the beginning, he was unremarkable but ever since the
assessment, he has thrived because of his blue aura. A blue aura
proves that he has the potential to be a high level mage.
Furthermore, high level mages are hard to come by in Long Xiang
continent. Many mages can only pace back at forth at the low and
intermediate levels. But if one is able to become a high level mage,
the future is limitless. The more you are able to refine high level
miracle pills, the more respect you will get from people. Therefore,
high level mages have always been the target of big-name sects.

Three days ago, those who were brought into TianXin sect with You
XiaoMo were all accepted as probationary disciples. But after Jiang
Liu was shown to have a blue aura during the assessment, he was
promoted to an official disciple. Since Jiang Liu is now an official
disciple, he will not have to face the entrance exam half a year later.
Furthermore, during yesterday's assessment, someone from the
Grand Elder's lineage took a fancy to Jiang Liu. Today he was invited
to move to the inner courtyard. Therefore he has come to bid them
farewell. Aside from You XiaoMo, the others are all envious of Jiang
Liu.

"How nice, when will I be able to become an official disciple like Jiang
Liu?"

"Work hard, then maybe we can fulfill this dream half a year later."

"If only it is this easy."

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You XiaoMo finally can't stop himself from blurting out, "Is it really
that hard?" He doesn't want to be driven out of TianXin sect. In this
strange dimension, staying with TianXin sect is probably the safest
bet.

The person who was speaking gives him a look, and just when You
XiaoMo starts to feel flustered, he indifferently looks away, saying
with a long face, "TianXin sect has very stringent demands of their
mage disciples. From what I know, if you wish to enter the inner
courtyard, you must refine a level 3 miracle pill. Furthermore it must
be within the next 6 months."

At once, sharp intake of breaths could be heard, accompanied by

disbelieving faces with mouths hanging open. Low level mages are
also able to refine level 3 miracle pills, but that requires at least two
to three years of perseverance, and even then success is not
guaranteed. There is no guarantee that any one mage, even a low
level mage, will be able to refine a complete level 3 miracle pill. A
level 2 miracle pill seems more probable. Hearing his words,
everyone becomes disheartened.

Although You XiaoMo doesn't know what it takes to become a mage,

looking at everyone's expressions, it seems to be a difficult path. Like
this, he starts to feel that his future is becoming darker and darker.

"But, it's not as if we have absolutely no hope." Looking at

everyone's depressed expressions, that person suddenly perks up.

"What hope? Spit it out." Everyone is hanging in suspense.

That person speaks secretively, "TianXin sect is a very large sect. The
disciples number in the thousands and tens of thousands. Putting

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aside the Warrior division, looking just at the Mage division, the
yearly expenses are huge. You all know that although mages can
earn money, in the early stages, the burn rate is high. Therefore
TianXin sect also has a trading division, specialized in making money
for TianXin sect."

Hearing this, even You XiaoMo pricks up his ears.

"If you are able to attract the attention of the elders from the trading
division, when the time comes, even if you fail to attract the
attention of the inner courtyard, you still will not be forced to leave
TianXin sect. It's just that from then on, your destiny with alchemy
comes to an end."

After his words, everyone seems lost in thought. After hearing this,
You XiaoMo understands that the trading division is a business. But
this means one must be business-minded. Furthermore, from what
he said, it seems that's not all there is to it. What twists and turns lie
ahead, You XiaoMo doesn't know, but he doesn't intend to give up.
After parting from the rest, You XiaoMo decides to head to the
library to take a look.

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Chapter 3 - Library

The library is an all encompassing place for both the Mage and
Warrior divisions. Therefore, it is huge. The library is divided into East
and West Pavilions, 2 large sections. The materials in the East
Pavilion are all sorts of literature on refining miracle pills and herbal
medicine, including the precious personal writings of the previous
generations. The West pavilion displays materials concerning the
history and geography of Long Xiang continent. It also has materials
on the techniques of energy control and martial arts.

But not just anyone is allowed to go in and look through the material.
Someone like You XiaoMo, a probationary disciple, is only allowed to
enter the 1st floor of the East and West Pavilions, lacking the
qualifications to ascend to the upper floors, unless he specifically
applies for the privilege or becomes an official disciple. But for You
XiaoMo, those two options are unattainable, besides, for now, he
has no need to visit the upper levels.

Visiting the library, You XiaoMo has 2 aims. The first aim is to
understand the history of Long Xiao continent. He has to know what
kind of world this is. The second aim, is the entrance exam half a year
later. He feels he has no hope whatsoever for both the Trading and
Warrior division. But he still holds a little hope for the Mage division.
However he has no idea what it means to be a mage, so he has to try
to figure it out.

After almost getting lost, You XiaoMo manages to ask his way to the
library. Still it took him almost an hour to find it. From far away, he
sees an imposing magnificent palace. A gilded rectangular plaque is
placed above the palace. On it is written three characters ???

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(library). Seemingly simple and unadorned characters but
simultaneously pregnant with meaning, giving rise to an imposing
aura. You XiaoMo swallows nervously, the library is too imposing,
even more majestic than the Forbidden City.

Entering the area, the first thing You XiaoMo sees is an elderly silver-
haired man, eyes closed, sitting in between the East and West
pavilions. Just when he approaches, the old man suddenly opens his
eyes. The bright and piercing eyes are incompatible with his outward
aged appearance, a sharp pair of eyes like knives, wizened with
accumulated experience, shooting straight at You XiaoMo, scaring
him to the extent that he is afraid to go any closer. The old man gives
him a look before saying freezingly "Hand over your identity tablet."

You XiaoMo freezes, but soon realizes that there is indeed a tablet
on him. He hurriedly fishes it out and hands it over gingerly. After
taking the tablet, the old man seemingly does nothing. You XiaoMo
only sees him pick it up before returning it two seconds later. He
then states, "You XiaoMo, probationary disciple, access limited to the
1st floor of the East pavilion." Thereafter, something flies towards
him. You XiaoMo dodges reflexively but not in time, *pa* rings out as
it hits his head, before falling to the ground. Raising his head, he
catches sight of a slight twitch on the serious expression of the old
man.

"Using that, you can enter the library." After saying that, the old man
proceeds to ignore him.

You XiaoMo shamefacedly picks up the object from the floor, not
daring to look at the old man, and runs towards the West pavilion,
probably not to emerge in the near future.

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Chapter 4 - Elder brother and Junior
sister
TianXin sect's library is like a sea that accepts 100 rivers. The East
and West pavilion hold more than ten thousand books on the 1st
floor alone. The way the books are displayed are like what You
XiaoMo expected. Tens upon hundreds of bookshelves, all sorts of
books separated by category, with clear signs. You XiaoMo sighs
heavily and shakes his head. Perhaps it's because the history of Long
Xiao continent is too long, he walks past several bookshelves divided
by time period, ranging widely. Some from ten thousand years ago,
some from five thousand years ago ...... You XiaoMo has no interest
in the Long Xiao continent from long ago. What he needs to
understand, is the Long Xiao continent of today. Walking to the last
bookshelf, You XiaoMo finally catches sight of the label at the top ----
- Geography of Long Xiao Continent!

Standing on tiptoe, You XiaoMo reaches up for a book when

suddenly his outstretched hand contacts something, a sudden
electric shock like feeling causes him to immediately retract his hand,
crying out in alarm. This unexpected event scares him half to death,
such a supernatural event. Calming down, he reminds himself that he
is now in the dimension of Long Xiao continent, so he must adapt to
these strange occurrences if he is to survive here. Thinking further,
You XiaoMo takes out the seal-like object from his chest. The very
thing that was thrown at him by the old man guarding the library.

The clueless You Xiao Mo can only raise the seal to the bookshelf.
Looks like he guessed right. The dark black seal gives out a sudden
flash of light, followed by a shift in the atmosphere, pushing open
towards both sides raising a few ripples. You XiaoMo tentatively taps
the area a few times and after not feeling the electric shock, finally

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realizes that he has succeeded. Quickly You XiaoMo took down a
book from the bookshelf, and then just like drawing a gourd by
copying a model, brings down several books. Mostly basic
knowledge of Long Xiao continent, bringing them with him to take a
look.

You XiaoMo finds a little corner and sits down, picking up the top-
most book and just when he was about the digest the contents, a
taunting laugh comes from above his head. You XiaoMo quickly looks
up to see a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on a roof
beam. Seeing You XiaoMo look up at him, he grins and leaps down,
looking at You XiaoMo with scrutiny and mockery. Obviously he had
seen all of You XiaoMo's actions from above.

He clicks his tongue *zeze*, "Really where did this steamed dirt bun
come from."

The young man circles around him, talking and showing extreme
disdain. You XiaoMo blinks but still feels that what he said is not
without reason, the him now is just like that of village folk entering a
big city. Who would have guessed that the young man seeing the
lack of reaction from You XiaoMo, actually became displeased.

"Steamed dirt bun, if you want to read, get away from here. Blocking
the passageway from the 2nd floor, don't tell me you're hoping to
get close to Elder brother and Junior sister. Let me tell you, you are
unworthy no matter what."

You XiaoMo stayed silent for a moment before getting up and

brushing the dirt off his butt. He then goes off obediently to find
another spot. Seeing him act so sensibly, the young man loses
interest, and leaves with a hmph. Seeing him leave, You XiaoMo
heaves a sigh of relief. Who would have thought that just coming to

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the library to look for books will result in him meeting someone that
loves to pick fights for nothing. He has never heard of Elder brother
or Junior sister, let alone try to get close to them.

But he never imagined that the random corner he chose would

actually be the passageway to the 2nd floor. This library really has a
unique craftsman's heart, not showing even a hint of the stairway.
After uttering a few curses, You XiaoMo finally calms down and starts
to read his books.

Soon he discovers that Long Xiang continent is an extremely vast

land, several hundred and thousand times bigger than the Earth of
his previous existence. Furthermore it is a continuous piece, but it
appears to be more primitive when compared to Earth. Continuous
uninterrupted mountain ranges, forests as far as the eye can see......

Most importantly this dimension is devoid of science and technology.

What it has are God defying mystics. According to the historical
record, Long Xiang continent is not the only land in this dimension.
For example, across the endless seas, there is another world, and
even in the outer void, there are many other places. However, these
books only contain a few paltry sentences on those places, with no
further description.

After 2 hours, You XiaoMo is more or less finished with the books,
having a rough idea of Long Xiao continent. After returning the
books, You XiaoMo stretches his stiff back. Just when he is about to
leave, he feels a slight vibration from behind. Turning around he sees
two figures appearing out of thin air from the first corner where he
was sitting. A male and a female, presumably the Elder brother and
Junior sister that the young man was talking about.

Elder brother has a handsome appearance with chiseled features,

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giving off a look of maturity, stability and confidence at a glance.
With his somewhat cold and thin lips lightly pressed together.
Without looking left or right he heads straight out of the library. The
celestial looking Junior sister lightly stamps her foot and chases after
him. Both seemingly unaware of You XiaoMo's existence.

After coming out of the building, You XiaoMo takes note of the color
of the sky. Feeling that it is still early, he heads to the East pavilion.
Because the there are too many things he wants to read, You XiaoMo
decides to take the books back to his room. A book each on
medicinal herbs and medical formulas, of the most basic level.

Notes:
like a sea that accepts a hundred rivers - diverse
drawing a gourd by copying a model - copy mechanically
steamed dirt bun - country bumpkin
has a unique craftsman's heart - ingenious

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Chapter 5 - Accepting a Master at the Hall
of Mages

When he reaches his room, the sun is just about to set behind the
mountain. You XiaoMo glances at the room next door, supposedly
the room of the young man that came to see him earlier today, Jiang
Liu. But the room is all quiet, looks like he had already moved out.
This type of good luck, of course he is envious. After all, the original
You XiaoMo's talent has already been completely determined, a
genuine goods at fair price soul with a green aura. But that was
before he was transported over, after the change in souls, it must
have changed. But You XiaoMo has no intention of getting re-
appraised. If it turns out the two appraisals are different, he would
most likely be subjected to suspicion. Afterall, he wouldn't want to
die once again after just being here for a few days. Therefore, even
though he really wants to know his talent, he has no interest in
getting re-appraised.

Back in his room, he puts the four books on the table. It has to be
said that the things he superficially looked at in the East pavilion, are
very profound. Perhaps others would be able to understand, but for
an outsider like him, with absolutely no understanding of mages, for
him to come to a sudden understanding, it really is somewhat
difficult. However, despite the difficulty, he still has to digest these 4
books before the next day. Because they have to go the the Hall of
Mages tomorrow, where it will be decided if they can find a good
Master for them to learn from. In order to become a mage, other
than one's own efforts, an outstanding Master is also a critical factor.

You XiaoMo doesn't know if he will be chosen, but he still can't

afford to go there without knowing anything. Who knows if the

21
selection process would entail some sort of assessment, if he gives 3
I don't knows to each question, he can realistically picture how no
one would be willing to accept him. Therefore, You XiaoMo intends
to supplement his knowledge, but 4 books in a night is really no easy
feat. After taking a huge breath, You XiaoMo resolutely burns the
midnight oil.

As a result, the next day, You XiaoMo has an extra pair of panda
eyes. But his worry was by no means superfluous. Early next
morning, someone from the Hall of Mages comes over to lead the
way. The person they sent over is a young man in his twenties, with
an indifferent expression. He gives them 15 minutes to get ready, not
saying anything else the whole time, as if he couldn't really be
bothered. You XiaoMo sees a few bitter smiles from the others,
because they are all considered 'leftovers'. The reality is the ones
with great potential, for example those with blue or purple auras
have already been chosen long ago, leaving only those with inferior
talent, just like You XiaoMo. He is the worst among the five, as the
others have green auras. But You XiaoMo doesn't feel inadequate,
afterall, as Edison once said, genius is 99% perspiration and 1%
inspiration.

15 mins later, they arrive at the Hall of Mages. The grandeur of the
Hall of Mages is in no way inferior to the library. It's unclear if they
are the last ones to arrive as there are already a lot of other people
assembled inside. However the others look pretty much like them,
dressed in simple green robes with ordinary hairpins in their hair,
probably having entered TianXin sect at about the same time. You
XiaoMo had thought that there were only the few of them, never
expecting that there would be so many. No wonder TianXin sect is
able to develop into the number one major sect in Long Xiang
continent, with the importance they attach to the quality of their
disciples.

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Because the elders have not arrived, the anxious crowd starts to
exchange words. It's just that the topics are all of the same kind,
'what is the color of your aura', 'I wonder who would pick me', 'it
would be great if I was spotted by so and so elder', that kind of
worthless talk. You XiaoMo lets out a huge yawn. After staying up
the whole night, he finds it a little difficult to hold on. Just when he is
about to find a corner to take a nap, a piercing voice makes him
jump.

"Silence everyone."

Notes:
genuine good at fair price - 100% percent
gives 3 I don't knows to each question - clueless

23
Chapter 6 - Kong Wen

This roar quiets down the whole Hall of Mages. You XiaoMo looks
closely and discovers that the shrill voice came from the young man
that led them here. He didn't expect that someone so expressionless
would have such a loud voice, and also so terse, but he soon finds
out the heart of the matter.

Following his words, a group of people walk in from outside. The

leaders look to be of advanced ages, the youngest in the thirties. Of
course this is an assessment of their exterior appearances, in reality,
some of them are probably extraordinary old creatures. Only after
reading the books, You XiaoMo learns that the people from this
dimension, especially the mystics, seem to have particularly long
lives. Just when he let his imagination run wild, the group of people
have already walked up to the front.

Soon the selection process begins, the three elders as if picking

dishes at a buffet, taking away the good ones, the remainders are all
crooked melons and cracked jujubes. Most unfortunately, You
XiaoMo is one of the leftover dishes. However, he could be
considered one of the lucky ones, because the highest remaining
levels are those with green auras, with the worst being the ones with
pink and yellow auras, basically those limited to being lower level
mages their whole lives.

"You, follow me for the next half year okay."

A voice suddenly says from above You XiaoMo's head. Raising his
head, he sees a middle aged man with slightly raised eyebrows
looking at him, albeit with a somewhat dissatisfied look. You XiaoMo

24
immediately answered meekly with a yes. The middle aged man
doesn't reply, picking a few more mediocre disciples, in fact they are
all leftovers, before leading them out of the Hall of Mages.

Although he said to follow him, but the middle aged man clearly has
no intention of accepting them as disciples, conveniently tossing him
and his mediocre compatriots to be guided by his eldest disciple,
Fang ChenLe, before hurriedly leaving for seclusion. Thus, You
XiaoMo remains a probationary disciple. However, You XiaoMo still
manages to figure out the situation from the Elder brother. The
middle aged man is Kong Wen, who can be considered as his master
in name, a minor celebrity in TianXin sect. It is said that he is a blue
aura high level mage. Despite falling short of the purple aura, he is
said to be able to refine a level 9 magic pill, albeit at a very low rate
of success. However, that still doesn't affect Kong Wen's position in
TianXin sect.

TianXin sect is divided into 3 peaks - Heaven peak, Flying peak and
Earth peak respectively. Kong Wen is the leader of the Earth peak.
Every year there is a need to recruit new blood. Therefore, every
year at about this time, the three leaders will personally go to the
Hall of Mages to select recruits. However, since Earth peak is the
weakest of the three, every year they get to pick last. Obviously the
good talents would have already been taken away by Heaven peak
and Flying peak. Like Jiang Liu, who was taken by Heaven peak.
Therefore Kong Wen's mood is always the worst during this time, so
that's why he immediately left for seclusion right after coming back
from the selection.

"Looks like it's not easy being a Master." You XiaoMo laments softly.

Little did he expect that Fang ChenLe would have such sharp ears,
actually hearing what he said. Unable to stop himself from teasing,

25
he says,

"Indeed it's not easy being a Master, therefore it now depends on all
of you, to win some praise for the Master."

"Elder brother, you must know that our talent is the most inferior."
The young man at his side shakes his head ruefully, this he clearly
understands from what he witnessed at the Hall of Mages. Fang
ChenLe pats him on the shoulder urging,

"You mustn't lose heart, inferior talent only relates to the question of
potential. You only need to be willing to put in the effort, and there
will still be hope. If you were to give up at the start, then obviously
there is no hope."

"Elder brother is right." You XiaoMo agrees in a whisper.

You XiaoMo had similar experiences in his past life, so he fully

understands this principle, therefore unlike the others, he doesn't
feel hopeless right from the start. Fang ChenLe gives him an
approving nod.

"Alright, from now on, you are all disciples of the Earth peak. There
are not a lot of rules in Earth peak, just for all you to be industrious
and conscientious, help each other in times of need, and work
wholeheartedly as one. Today is your first day at Earth peak. Since
you are all still unfamiliar with the surroundings, I won't be teaching
you today. I will let your brothers acclimate you to the surroundings.
Tomorrow I will tell you more at the regular assembly."

Soon after, a fellow disciple comes over to help familiarize them with
the surroundings. The atmosphere at Earth peak is much better than
where they were before. Wrapped in clouds and mist, birds singing

26
in the mountain forest, and especially the air, cool and refreshing,
You XiaoMo no longer feels sleepy after a little walk. After strolling
for an hour, that Li brother then brings them to their living quarters.

Notes:
crooked melons and cracked jujubes - ugly

27
Chapter 7 - Blue birthmark

Earth peak has a lot of rooms, slightly bigger than where You XiaoMo
was before. However the furnishings are just as simple as the one
before, except for an additional simple screen, behind which is a very
big wooden tub. The screen is placed facing the door, blocking the
view of others. You XiaoMo moves in that very day. He has very few
things, only two sets of clothes and four books. He doesn't intend to
return the books immediately to the library. Last night, in order to
deal with the situation, he was almost like swallowing a date whole,
stuffing all the contents into his brain He still haven't had the time to
digest them, already failing to remember clearly some of them.
Furthermore the loan period of the library typically has a limit of half
a month.

You XiaoMo puts his clothes and books in the wardrobe before
starting to clean the room. Most probably no one lived in this room
before, and no one comes over to clean it regularly, so the floor,
table, chair, and bed are all coated with a layer of dust. You XiaoMo
touches the surfaces with his finger, the layer of dust is really quite
thick. There is a wooden washbasin in the room. You XiaoMo uses it
to fetch clean water from outside, taking an hour to clean up the
room. By this time, the sun had already set behind the mountain.

Not long after, that Brother Li comes over to get him and the other
new recruits for dinner. Earth peak has a dedicated canteen, three
meals a day. A lot of the disciples will head over here to have their
meals. However there are also those who are fasting, not needing to
come over for meals. The dishes are set up like a modern day buffet.
Each of the three meals is cooked beforehand by the cook, and
placed in large pots. The disciples then take whatever they wish to

28
eat. But in order to avoid wasting food, one of the rules of the
canteen is that you only take however much you can eat. Any
evidence of wasting food will be met with punishment.

You XiaoMo follows Brother Li to pick up a food tray. He doesn't have

a big appetite, so he scoops up less food. Just when he is about to
start eating, a small commotion comes from the entrance. You
XiaoMo raises his head and looks over. Looks like Elder brother Fang
ChenLe has arrived. His arrival is immediately met with greetings
from a lot of people. It is evident that he is quite popular in Earth
peak, maybe only second to the Master.

After dinner, You XiaoMo returns to his room. Remembering that he

has yet to take a bath, he takes out a set of clothes from the
wardrobe and places them on a small stool beside the wooden tub.
There is actually a hot spring in TianXin sect, however, it is quite far
away. Therefore most people would bring back hot water to their
rooms to bathe. During the day, Brother Li brought them to the place
for hot water, so You XiaoMo knows the way. Going back and forth
five times, You XiaoMo finally fills the tub. You XiaoMo wipes the
sweat off his brow, closes the door, takes off his clothes and slips
into the water. The water temperature is just right, wrapping around
his body, making him feel drowsy. You XiaoMo struggles to keep
awake, using the towel to wash his hands and legs once over.

Just when he wasn't paying attention, something similar to a

birthmark slowly emerges on his chest that had been soaking in the
water. Like a blue tear drop. The color becoming brighter and
brighter. You XiaoMo suddenly feels his chest is very hot. Looking
down, he can't help but be dumbfounded. When did this birthmark
appear on his chest. Furthermore, it is blue, very strange. Looking at
the bright drop, it seems as if it is about to drip out of his chest, he
can't help but touch it with his hand .......

29
Two breaths later, You XiaoMo who should be taking a bath,
suddenly disappears. A few ripples float across the surface of the
steaming water, slowly fading away, as if You XiaoMo was never
there, the whole room cloaked in silence.

Notes:
swallowing a date whole - read without understanding

30
Chapter 8 - Percentage

*pu tong*

A human figure drops from the sky splashing right into jade green
waves. The bone chilling ice-cold water covers the top of his head in
an instant. You XiaoMo is freaks out, all six vital organs failing to
function. He flails around in the water, thinking he has fallen into the
sea. The fact is, he can't swim!! You XiaoMo thinks in despair, don't
tell me I'm going to drown right now just after crossing over here?
He can't help but mourn his fate as a short-lived ghost. Thinking this
way, You XiaoMo just gives up and stops struggling. Since he is
bound to die sooner or later, he might as well just die already. He
only hopes that he won't be a short-lived ghost in his next life.
Relaxing his whole body, You XiaoMo slowly waits for the moment
when he sinks to his death under the water.

Maybe because he has completely unburdened himself, he starts to

feel something is not right. Flipping open his eyes, he is stunned to
find that the water is only waist deep. -_-||.......

Only then does You XiaoMo realize that he is no longer in his room.
He finds himself in unfamiliar surroundings, standing in a lake. The
lake takes up a fifth of the area. It's a peculiar space. White clouds
and blue skies above. A clear day but with no sun in sight. After
careful examination, he finds out that everything is static. The white
clouds show no signs of movement. There is no sound of wind in the
air. The fresh green grass bows to the ground but remains
motionless. Even the lake below him lacks the slightest ripple.

You XiaoMo looks down at the blue tear drop lying quietly on his

31
chest. Could it be that he is here now because he accidentally
touched it? With that in mind, he can't help but stretch out his hand
and touches it again. Unexpectedly everything turns black in front of
his eyes, *pu tong*, and he finds himself back in the tub of hot
water. His ice-cold body that was completely submerged in the lake
slowly starts to warm up.

You XiaoMo stares at the blue teardrop on his chest. After hesitating
for quite a while, he finally decides to leave it alone. He hastily
finishes his bath and climbs out of the tub and puts on his clothes. It
could be his imagination but he feels more invigorated than he was
before. In order to discard the bath water, You XiaoMo again makes
several trips. At this time the sky starts to darken. There doesn't
seem to be anyone up and about, only the occasional disciples on
patrol. Because it is his first day here, being in unfamiliar
surroundings, You XiaoMo doesn't dare to run about wildly. After
finishing pouring away the bath water, You XiaoMo returns to his
room. He lights a candle, lighting up the room and then takes the
book on his desk and continues his reading.

Speaking about mages, even though there are three big peaks in
TianXin sect, the reality is, very few people can become mages. It's
not a question of the lack of effort, but rather the lack of natural
talent. In order to determine if someone can become a mage, the
most straightforward method is to look at his soul. Only souls with
colored auras can become mages. The martial artists on the other
hand, all have colorless transparent souls. Long Xiang continent has
thousands upon tens of thousands of people, however colored auras
appear in only one percent of the people. That's to say, only one in a
hundred can become mages. Furthermore, these may not necessarily
be high level mages, most likely ending up as low level mages.
Clearly, mages are a rarity in Long Xiang continent. Since surveying a
person's soul is now widely used to identify potential mages, most

32
major sects carry a soul detection crystal, the size of a small bowl. It's
only because of this that You XiaoMo is able to avoid a disaster. After
successfully entering TianXin sect as a probationary disciple, he no
longer has to get his soul appraised. However, where he goes from
here, still depends on his own efforts.

Notes:
all six vital organs failing to function - scared out of his wits
short-lived ghost - die prematurely
black line - -_-||

33
Chapter 9 - Legendary Soul
The next day, You XiaoMo follows his brother disciples to the main
hall of the Hall of Enchanted Herbs. The Hall of Enchanted Herbs is
the most important place in Earth peak, where all disciples must go
to every day. Brother Li was in charge of bringing them over but
because he has his own assignments, he doesn't have to the time to
teach them. It just so happens that Elder Brother has some free time
so he conveniently takes over.

"Since this is the first time for all of you to encounter these things, I
won't get into the complicated issues. Let's start with the
fundamentals. Displayed in front of you are the enchanted herbs
required to refine magic pills. Go ahead and take a look."

While speaking, Fang ChenLe brings forward the potted herbs from
behind him and places them in front of them. You XiaoMo like
everyone else looks curiously at the enchanted herbs in the small
pots. Enchanted herbs is a general term for enchanted medicinal
materials. But not all enchanted medicinal materials come in herb
form. For example the second small potted plant on the left hand
side, is the level one enchanted herb peaceful spirit flower.

Fang ChenLe then introduces them to the levels of enchanted herbs.

Just like with mages, enchanted herbs are also categorized by levels.
From level one to level twelve. The higher the level of the enchanted
herb, the higher the level of the resulting magic pill. But this also
depends on the level of the mage. Low level mages can refine level
one to level three magic pills. Intermediate level mages can refine
level one to level six magic pills. As for high level mages, they are
subject to the most jealousy in Long Xiao continent. It is also the
highest money making profession. However, the success rate of

34
refining magic pills decreases with each increase in level. For
example, level nine and level ten magic pills. Even for well
established celebrated high level mages, they can't even guarantee a
10% success rate. On top of that, the necessary enchanted herbs for
these types of magic pills are very rare.

Beyond these are the level eleven and level twelve magic pills and
enchanted herbs. These two types are basically the stuff of legends.
It is said that only the legendary seven colored soul mage is able to
refine these pills. However there has not been a single seven colored
soul mage in Long Xian continent for over ten thousand years. So for
over ten thousand years, it remains only a legend. Even if there was,
finding level eleven and level twelve enchanted herbs is no easy task.

You XiaoMo has already read all of this information in the books.
Although he already knows it by heart, he still listens carefully to the
explanation by Elder brother. Further consolidation will only be of
benefit to him. Fang ChenLe also seems to notice the earnest little
brother, nodding his head in approval. This information is of the
most basic level, easily obtained from books. Because of that, when
he relays this to new disciples, there rarely are any that pay such
close attention. So it is very rare to come by such an earnest and
patient little brother. Fang ChenLe inevitably takes notice of him.

"For now, familiarize yourselves with the level one enchanted herbs.
Two hours later I will come back to explain the fundamentals of
mages." With that, Fang ChenLe allowed the disciples to go their own
way. Seeing his brothers rush over to examine the enchanted herbs,
You XiaoMo simply calls out and stops Fang ChenLe. Fang ChenLe
hears a pleasant voice coming from behind him. Turning back, he
sees the earnest little brother looking expectantly at him with a pair
of big black eyes. He can't help but find it quite funny.

35
"XiaoMo little brother, what is it?"

You XiaoMo didn't expect that he would remember his name.

Looking down bashfully he says, "Elder brother, I wish to take a look
at the medicine garden. May I?"

Fang ChenLe freezes, sizing up You XiaoMo, then finally nods his
head saying, "Of course you may, I was originally thinking that giving
too much information today will be too much of a burden, but since
it's your request, then it's fine. But for now, you only can access the
level one medicine garden."

"Thank you Elder brother." You XiaoMo quickly thanks him in delight.

Fang ChenLe smiles and tells him no thanks is necessary, and then
takes him there.

The main medicine garden is the most important place in TianXin

sect. Any sect that wishes for long-term expansion cannot separate
themselves from it. Therefore the medicine garden is a restricted
area. Unless one has a direct order from the Grand Master, only the
elders charged with taking care of the gardens are allowed inside.
But the main medicine garden only grows enchanted herbs above
level five. Level five and below are open to the public.

The three main peaks of the Mage division have five medicine
gardens each. One for each level from level one enchanted herbs to
level five. You XiaoMo is a newly minted probationary disciple so he
only has access to the level one garden.

36
Chapter 10 - Discovery in the Medicine
Garden

Fang ChenLe brings him to the medicine garden, and notifies the
disciple on guard before leaving. Knowing that You XiaoMo was
brought here by the Elder brother, the disciple gives him no trouble,
simply bringing up several important points to take note of before
letting him enter.

The level one garden is very big, mostly because the need is great, so
it's necessary to prepare beforehand. Upon entering, You XiaoMo
sees a huge expanse of enchanted herbs swaying with the wind. The
most familiar enchanted herb is the contusion herb, green colored
stems and leaves, with small purple flower buds on top. This type of
enchanted herb is very effective against external injuries. However
most mages don't use it to refine magic pills for treating external
injuries. For mystics, external injuries are small matters, so they
rarely refine magic pills to treat external injuries. However, female
mystics have a different view, after all preserving beauty is an
inherent part of being a woman. Flanking the contusion herb are the
winter ice herb and the peaceful spirit flower. These two enchanted
herbs are frequently used in refining level one magic pills, so the
quantity planted is comparatively greater.

You XiaoMo squats in front of the peaceful spirit flower. Unsure if it

is just his imagination, he feels that the flower on his left is
comparatively lacking in vitality, while the one on his right is
blooming very magnificently and full of vitality. A thin layer of white
mist seems to envelop the stems and leaves of the one on the right.
What it is, he doesn't know. Looking at the other peaceful spirit
flowers, there isn't any that looks as good. Most importantly, the

37
other plants also lack the thin layer of white mist. You XiaoMo stares
absorbedly, his head full of questions. Because he can't be sure if he
was seeing things, You XiaoMo decides to shift positions.

Unexpectedly he finds five plants with the same condition among the
winter ice herbs. Without exception, the plants suffused in white
mist are all full of vitality and vigor. It's too bad You XiaoMo does not
have a deep understanding of enchanted herbs, so he has no idea
what it means. But he's definitely not stupid, so he vaguely guesses
that those few plants must be of the highest quality. You XiaoMo
then simply throws this to the back of his head.

Even though Elder brother had asked them to re-assemble two hours
later, You XiaoMo was too absorbed in examining the enchanted
herbs that he forgot all about it. By the time he came back to earth,
he realizes that Elder brother is standing behind him smiling slightly.
Surprised, You XiaoMo looks up at the sky and realizes the time. He
hastily apologizes, "I'm sorry Elder brother, I, I forgot the time."

Fang ChenLe does not rebuke him, instead smiles at him saying, "It's
hard to come by such an earnest little brother, Elder brother is very
content. Luckily, this is the basics class, so there's not much content,
so I'll just explain it again for you. Just make sure you're not late next
time."

You XiaoMo feels a little uncomfortable but can only say weakly,
"Thank you Elder brother."

Returning to the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, Fang ChenLe proceeds to

give him a personal lesson. Before, he taught them about enchanted
herbs, this time, he explains the basics of being a mage. The ratio of
martial artists and mages in Long Xiao continent to the general
population is one to a hundred. Since the population of Long Xiao

38
continent exceeds a trillion, there is no shortage of mages. The real
shortage lies in the number of high level mages. The threshold
between an intermediate level mage and a high level mage is a very
high step that many intermediate level mages have no way of
achieving. This is related to the inborn talent of the mage. The soul
level determines the future of the mage. The higher the soul level,
the rarer it is. For example, You XiaoMo and the other disciples that
entered with him. They all come from the same district, but among
them, only Jiang Liu has a blue aura. However, low inborn talent does
not mean that there will never come a time when one can hold one's
head up high. There is a niche in every occupation. There will always
be people with specialized skills in each area. Even low level mages
can have their areas of success.

"Elder brother, low level mages can only refine low level magic pills.
But, a lot of low level mages are also able to refine them. Since only
rare things are considered to be valuable, what success can there
be?" You XiaoMo doesn't really understand what he means.

Fang ChenLe says with a smile in his eyes, as if the question was not
unexpected, "Little brother must know, why there is always good
and bad for everything."

You XiaoMo ponders for a moment before lighting up, "Don't tell me
it's because magic pills also have problems with quality?"

"That's right, you guessed it so quickly. It seems little brother is quite

smart."

Fang ChenLe nods his head in satisfaction. He praises him because

when he had asked other young disciples, they were not as quick as
him. You XiaoMo lowers his head, his ears a little red, neither
confirming or denying. After all, he doesn't dare to say that he is

39
from the modern era, so he is more sensitive to this problem.
Because there are many counterfeits in the modern era so the
question of quality is on everyone's minds. Even he himself has done
some research on this question.

"The quality of magic pills depends on the enchanted herbs. If the

enchanted herbs used were not cultivated properly, the resulting
magic pills would fall short of their promise. Therefore, magic pills
are divided into three grades. Low, medium, and top grades, with top
grade as the best.

"So that's how it is." You XiaoMo senses something flash by in his
mind but it disappears before he could catch it. His intuition tells him
that it is something important but he fails to figure it out right up to
the end of the lesson. Only upon returning to his room does he
suddenly cry out *ah*.

"Could it be what I saw this morning?"

40
Chapter 11 - Repeat encounter with a
'familiar persons'

In the morning, You XiaoMo discovered that the growth conditions of

the magic herbs in the medicine garden are somewhat different. At
first he could not understand why. Now he guesses that it should be
a question of quality. Although he doesn't know why magic herbs
grown in the same medicine garden would be of different qualities,
he is certain that there must be a reason. Perhaps it's the uneven
absorption of nutrients or the effect of some other external
influences. No matter the reason, You XiaoMo is very excited over
this discovery. If he can discern the relative quality of the magic
herbs, it would make the process of searching for magic herbs much
easier for him later. However You XiaoMo feels that it would be
embarrassing to ask his fellow disciples at this time, but if he doesn't,
he feels that he wouldn't be able to sleep tonight. After turning this
over in his head, he decides to consult the library. The library is all
encompassing so it should have contents that cover this aspect.

After hastily finishing his dinner, You XiaoMo does not return to his
room with his fellow disciples, but heads directly to the library.
Guarding the library is the same old man with the serious expression.
Unlike the last time, because it's not his first time here, You XiaoMo
hands over his identity tablet without being asked, and like before,
receives a black seal.

"Thank you uncle." You XiaoMo thanks him politely before heading
to the East pavilion. You XiaoMo with his back turned does not know
that the old man twitches when he hears the word 'uncle'. His
impression of this probationary disciple inevitably grows stronger.

41
Entering the library, You XiaoMo subconsciously looks to see if there
are other people around. The last time he had jumped in shock when
the young man unexpectedly appeared. He doesn't want that to
happen again. Being spied on is not a good feeling. But You XiaoMo is
just being paranoid. Usually there is rarely anyone present in the first
floor of the East and West pavilions. Because the volumes are rather
large, unlikely to be finished in a few hours, so most people would
choose to bring them back to their own rooms.

On the second row of bookshelves, You XiaoMo finds a book on the

topmost shelf ------ Common problems associated with growing
magic herbs. The book is about 2 cm thick. Taking into account You
XiaoMo's speed, he probably wouldn't finish reading it even after a
day. So he decides to take the book back to his room. After all, he
definitely will be needing this knowledge later.

But You XiaoMo does not leave immediately. He looks through the
other bookshelves and only prepares to leave when he doesn't find
any other useful books. But just when he turns around, he feels a
disturbance from one side of his body. This is followed by the
appearance of a white silhouette from out of thin air. And right after,
a pink figure appears on the left side of the white figure. After taking
a clearer look, he realizes that they are actually the same pair he saw
the last time at the West pavilion.

Because they appeared very close to You XiaoMo this time, the man
seems to sense his presence almost immediately. The eyes that
resemble two cold stars inlaid in the chiseled handsome face
suddenly fall squarely on You XiaoMo. The unfeeling gaze causes You
XiaoMo to feel a cold shudder from head to toe, his hand trembling
while holding the book. He had originally assumed that this Elder
brother and Junior sister were from the Military division. But seeing
them appear in the East pavilion, You XiaoMo is now unsure. Are

42
they of the East or West pavilion?

At first the girl dressed in pink was not aware of You XiaoMo, but
since all her attention was focused on the man, once he looked over
at him, she immediately becomes aware of his presence,
immediately creasing her eyebrows.

"What are you looking at? Have you never seen beautiful people?
Scram!"

"........"

Such unprecedented shameless behavior. Fine. You win, pretty girl!

You XiaoMo really doesn't like this type of cunning and obstinate
girls. One look at it's obvious that she is thoroughly spoilt. Getting
involved could only result in himself suffering a huge loss. While
leaving, he can still hear the petulant voice of the pink dressed girl
towards the man.

"Brother Xiao, you clearly promised father that you would

accompany YunYun to the library. Why do you suddenly want to
leave? How hateful, I still haven't finished reading."

With a start, You XiaoMo quickly picks up speed and flees from the
East pavilion.

43
Chapter 12 - The danger of magic pills

Returning to his room, You XiaoMo's mind slowly clears up. The
words of the pink dressed girl revealed quite a bit of information.
That 'Elder brother' most probably is a top level disciple of the
Warrior division while the pink dressed girl should be a mage. Even
though You XiaoMo is not very sociable, he knows that she couldn't
possibly be from Earth peak. That pink dressed girl should be a
disciple from Heaven peak or Flying peak. Tossing out the petulant
voice of the pink dressed girl from his mind, You XiaoMo starts to
read his book seriously.

Speaking of the quality of magic herbs, the book actually does touch
on the subject. Magic herbs will grow differently depending on the
method of cultivation, leading to good and bad magic herbs.
However, without exception, regardless of cultivation method, the
quality of magic herbs have never exceeded 95% perfection. Of
course, this would directly affect the quality of magic pills. It is
recorded in the book that problems arose in the method of
cultivating magic herbs several thousand years ago. From then on, no
one has been able to cultivate top quality magic herbs, affecting the
usability ratio of the herbs. Therefore, magic pills are divided into 3
grades, top, middle, and low grades.

Flipping further, You XiaoMo studies how to judge the quality of

magic herbs. Simply put, it's related to the spiritual energy absorbed
by mystics. Magic herbs are so-called because they absorb the
spiritual energy of the universe. With spiritual energy flowing in the
meridians of the magic herbs, soaking in day by day, growing to
maturity. Therefore the quality of the magic herbs can be
determined by the amount of spiritual energy contained in them.

44
Only now does You XiaoMo understand that the white mist he saw
earlier on the stems and leaves of the peaceful spirit flower in the
medicine garden represents magic herbs of the best quality. But the
probability of this happening is not high. Even in the level one
medicine garden, there are only the occasional few plants. What
more the high level magic herbs? The probability of this happening is
practically zero.

Furthermore, because of the different magic pill grades, there is a

predetermined risk for the martial artists of the Warrior division
when they take the pills. The lower the grade of the magic pills, the
higher the risk. For example for low grade magic pills, since the
quality of the magic herbs lie between 60-70%, the risk for the
martial artists when they take low grade magic pills reaches up to
35%. Not high yet not low. The results for mid grade magic pills are
slightly better. Since the quality of the magic herbs are from 70-85%,
so the risk of taking mid grade magic pills is only 20%. Naturally, the
lowest risk is the top grade magic pills. The quality of top grade
magic herbs is 90% so the risk of top grade magic pills is only 8%. This
is why top grade magic pills have always been the goal of mages and
martial artists. The high level mages of Long Xiao continent, other
than spending time refining magic pills, also regularly devote
themselves to researching the cultivation methods of magic herbs.

However, there are some exceptions. Five hundred years ago, a high
level mage discovered another way of reducing the risk of magic pills.
That is to refine the extraction process, removing the impurities. The
more impurities are removed, the better the quality of the magic
herbs, leading to decreasing risk in the resulting magic pills. Later,
when the discovery was passed on, it caused a huge uproar among
mages. From then on, more and more mages adopted this method.
One after another, hoping to further distill the magic herbs to reduce
the risk of the magic pills. However, this method can only reduce the

45
risk of the magic pills, not increase the grade. That's because the
grade of magic pills is dependent on the level of spiritual energy
contained in the magic herbs. Removing more impurities does not
affect the original level of spiritual energy contained in the magic
herbs. Regardless, the method discovered by the high level mage is
still very useful. Going through the distillation process, the risk of low
grade magic pills is reduced to 15%, mid grade to 10%, and top grade
to 5%.

All this information leaves You XiaoMo confused and disoriented. It's
really quite complicated. Now he understands why those disciples
said earlier that refining magic pills is not easy. Looks like it takes so
many steps just to refine one magic pill. Refining a level two magic
pill within 6 months does not seem plausible no matter how you look
at it. You XiaoMo's head starts to ache. Looks like he needs to put in
200% of effort if he plans to stay with TianXin sect.

46
Chapter 13 - The Force of the Soul
The next day, by the time You XiaoMo leaves his room, his
neighboring brothers have already left for the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs. You XiaoMo's interaction with them is neither hot nor cold.
Usually, when they encounter each other he would give the usual
greetings, nothing more. Therefore he definitely does not have a
tight relationship with them. They must be aware of their own
precarious situation. After all, their inborn talent is not much.
Furthermore, they are the newest disciples. So, they have to be more
conscientious, heading off to look for elder disciples early in the
morning, in order to get on their good side. You XiaoMo is the last to
arrive.

Once again, the person leading them today is Elder brother Fang
ChenLe. Because of his earlier good impression of You XiaoMo, he
simply nods his head in acknowledgement at You XiaoMo without
rebuking him when he arrives. As for a few of the other disciples,
who were ready displeased at having to wait just for him alone, upon
seeing that Elder brother does not reproach him, it only increases
their dislike for him. You XiaoMo feels ashamed for being late,
unaware that feelings of resentment towards him have begun to
arise in the others. It can't be helped, he was reading late into the
night, so he woke up late.

Only after You XiaoMo takes his seat, does Fang ChenLe start today's
lesson. The work of a mage is to refine magic pills. But that does not
mean one is able to do it just because one wants to do it. That's
because there is a very important factor that is needed - the force of
the soul. Only souls with colored auras possess this force. Therefore
the first step in becoming a mage is to stimulate this force. How to
stimulate this force is the most important point of Fang ChenLe's

47
lecture today.

"There is a risk to stimulating this force, but it's definitely not a huge
risk. As long as you follow the steps I give you, there wouldn't be any
problems."

As he says this, Fang ChenLe personally hands each person a magic

herb. Once everyone has gotten one, he continues his explanation.

"What you have in your hands is a magic herb called Soul herb. It is a
level two magic herb. It's not quite like other magic herbs. It's chief
use is not to refine magic pills, but to stimulate the soul's force. Now,
pick out the most tender leaf in the middle and eat it. You will then
feel its effect. You may feel a little pain but just endure it and it will
pass."

Hearing this, everyone is eager to try the magic herb. You XiaoMo is
no exception. He carefully picks out the most tender leaf and places
it in his mouth ...... Fifteen minutes later, You XiaoMo finally regains
consciousness. However, his head is covered in sweat. The back of
his body completely drenched, as if he had just been fished out of
water. The first thought that flashes through his mind is that he was
duped. Now he understands what 'a little pain' really means. It's not
just a little but rather so much that he would have been better off
dead. He almost killed himself by biting his tongue. Luckily he
ultimately managed to persevere to the end. Looking at the others,
although they have all survived through it, some appear more tragic
than others, sprawled out on the floor.

"Looks like everyone survived the ordeal. Let Elder brother first
congratulate everyone on successfully getting over the threshold into
the world of alchemy." Fang ChenLe beams at them, not in the least
affected by the aggrieved expression in their eyes.

48
Although everyone feels that Elder brother is too cunning, no one
dares to say so.

"Elder brother, now can we start refining magic pills?" You XiaoMo
asks as he struggles to keep his wits about him.

"Of course, since you all have successfully stimulated the force of the
soul. But first, I must warn you." Seeing that he is the first to recover,
Fang ChenLe gives him an approving nod. Everyone perks up their
ears.

"I have already brought this up during yesterday's lesson. Level one
magic herbs are of the lowest level. Therefore it is easily available. So
you all may have unlimited access to level one magic herbs. But for
level two magic herbs, Earth peak will allot a predetermined amount
to you each month according to your circumstances."

You XiaoMo assumes that this is to prevent waste, but it also causes
a huge problem. Before he could open his mouth someone beats him
to it.

"Elder brother, what happens when we've used up our quota?"

"If you want more, you can only trade for it. There are two ways to
trade. One way is to use your physical effort to collect merit points.
And then use these merit points to trade for magic herbs. You can
earn these points by cleaning the canteen or the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs. You can help the elder disciples take care of magic herbs or
guard the gardens and other such tasks." Fang ChenLe smiles while
speaking.

After hearing this everyone can't help but look at each other in

49
dismay. Clearly it was unexpected. After struggling to enter TianXin
sect, they still have to carry out odd jobs.

You XiaoMo then asks curiously, "Elder brother, what about the
other way?"

Fang ChenLe's smile gets even deeper. "The other way is very simple.
That's to go down and buy them at the foot of the mountain. There
are a lot of shops selling magic herbs down there. But you have to
bear the expense yourselves. TianXin sect does not have strict
regulations on this. Each disciple is allowed to go down twice a
month."

Hearing this, a few brothers heave sighs of relief. On the other hand,
You XiaoMo's expression darkens. This method is useless to him
because he has no money. Looks like he has another assignment.
Make money!

50
Chapter 14 - A Long Way to Go
After asking around, You XiaoMo finally understands what the merit
points are all about. One stalk of level two magic herbs is worth 5
merit points. Cleaning the canteen or Hall of Enchanted Herbs will
earn you 20 points a day. Not a lot, but also not too little. But since
not everyone will have the chance to do these housekeeping chores,
it is decided on a rotating basis. The number of Earth peak disciples
are definitely not few. Other than a few wealthy disciples, most of
them are of humble origins. So they are all vying for these few slots,
especially for the task of helping the elder disciples guard the
medicine gardens. That's because this task is relatively easy but the
number of merit points gained is comparatively more. Therefore the
number of people scrambling over these assignments are not just a
few.

But winning a spot is not guaranteed even if you fight for it. That's
because connections is a very important factor. If a connected
person recommends you, then the probability of success is about
80%. Without connections, don't even dream of being chosen, even
just appearing in front of the elder disciples is a problem. Thinking
through this critical point, You XiaoMo now understands why some
people are so eager to butter up to the other disciples. Be that as it
may, You XiaoMo doesn't just go ahead and start to butter up to his
superiors. He is not so egoistic to think that the elders would take a
liking to him if he goes up to rub shoulders with them eagerly. As for
Fang ChenLe, it never even crossed his mind. Even though they have
spoken a few times, who knows what kind of person the Elder
brother is. If by chance he finds it distasteful, then it would not be
worth it. But luckily, a level two mage is still a long way for him. You
XiaoMo decides to go with the flow and not worry about this
problem for now. Casting aside that vexing problem, his whole

51
person suddenly feels much lighter. It just happens to be lunch time,
so You XiaoMo follows the others to the canteen from behind.

The three persons walking in front of him are older than him, so they
can be considered as his elder brothers. These three people are
swarming around Big brother Zhao. Big brother Zhao and Elder
brother are both Master Kong's disciples. Big brother Zhao is disciple
number 5, a level two mage. But it's said that he is on the verge of
breaking through to level three. Compared to them, he is more
senior and more knowledgable. In order to ensure a better future in
Earth peak, a few disciples will go up to him from time to time to
gather some information. Of course they are very respectful.

"Big brother Zhao, we have just been here a few days. Still clueless
over a lot of things. Would you be kind enough to tell us a thing or
two?"

"You'd like to know?" Seems like they might have success, Big
brother Zhao seems quite pleased.

"We'd like to know how the competition is for the task of taking care
of the medicine gardens." one of them asks cautiously.

Big brother Zhao huffs *chi*, saying "Don't even think about it. There
are not many medicine gardens in Earth peak. Even by taking turns it
would never reach you. If the Elder disciples need someone, they
would look for their own disciples. As for the medicine gardens of
the Master, Elder brother, and 2nd brother, they all already have
fixed guardians."

This is a disappointment but not unexpected. They are after all newly
minted probationary disciples. Plump assignments is not something
they can expect.

52
"Big brother Zhao, you just said that Elder brother and 2nd brother
have their own medicine gardens. Don't tell me they are already
level 4 mages?"

It is common knowledge that only level 4 mages and up are allowed

to have their own medicine gardens. This point was already covered
by Elder brother yesterday.

"Or course. Elder brother and 2nd brother have outstanding talent.
Early last year they became level 4 mages. They can be considered
the most outstanding disciples in Earth peak." Saying this, he glances
at their anxious faces. Laughing, he adds, "There's no need to lose
heart. Although the highest for all of you in this lifetime is level 3, if
you're willing to work hard, you may also achieve success in this
field." With this, a look of superiority surfaces on his face. Because
his aura is teal, although words of consolation fall from his lips, there
is not a shred of sympathy in his eyes.

The three of them look at each other in dismay, smiling wryly.

Indeed, their inborn talent have already dictated that they could only
be low level mages. Level 4 is only something they can look up at
from below, nothing more. When they enter the canteen, You
XiaoMo was still rooted at the same spot staring blankly. After a long
time, he starts to feel a little ashamed. Just a while ago he was
rejoicing that he does not need to worry about level 2 at this time.
This is while the other disciples are already planning so far into the
future. Indeed, if one were to start looking for chores now, saving up
the merit points bit by bit, these can then be used once level 2 is
reached. He actually didn't think of that. Thinking like this, You
XiaoMo suddenly feels that he has a long way to go.

After lunch, You XiaoMo spends the whole afternoon completing the

53
assignment given by Elder brother. That is to consolidate the force of
his soul and to learn the good and bad magical properties of various
magic herbs and so on. This is for them to build a strong foundation
to avoid complications while refining magic pills. Only when the sun
is almost setting, does You XiaoMo return to his room.

Wanting to take a bath, You XiaoMo suddenly remembers the Earth

peak rule that left him speechless. He never knew that Earth peak
was so poor that even water is restricted. He only found out
yesterday. Each disciple can only take one bath every three days. But
there are those take only take one every ten days or every half a
month. But for You XiaoMo, whose body starts to itch if he misses
one day, this is pure torture. But then, there's that place connected
to the blue teardrop. Even though it is unclear what that dimension
is, it just so happens to have a lake .......

54
Chapter 15 - Discovering the dimension

After fetching a fresh set of clothes, You XiaoMo touches the

teardrop. When he opens his eyes, he is already in the other
dimension. This time, his landing site is not in the water, but by the
lake. This is a result of his experiments last night. It is enough just to
wish it so in his heart. After a relaxing bath in the lake, You XiaoMo
proceeds to wash his clothes in the lake. Because he plans to take a
bath here often, You XiaoMo already brought a bamboo rack here
this morning. He simply puts the washed clothes on the rack. This
way, he wouldn't have to bring a set of clothes tomorrow.

Since time is not tight, after taking care of things, You XiaoMo
decides to finally explore this dimension. Up till now, he only found
one use for this dimension, that is to take a bath. But that's because
this place is really quite simple. One glance and it is clear, it's just a
lake and grass, nothing else. He originally thought that this might be
a magical place, but he finds nothing after walking all around. One
lake and the surrounding land, what can be done with this? You
XiaoMo looks up at the clear bright sky, and then down at the
thriving weeds under his feet. He suddenly cries out *ah*.

"That's it, that's it, looks like there's one more use for this place, why
didn't I think of it before?"

You XiaoMo paces back and forth excitedly. He taps his head happily
while thinking that he seems to have forgotten something important.
He concentrates on the grass under his feet. He finally remembers.
During lunch, Big brother Zhao had brought it up. The rules of the
Mage division stipulates that each level four mage is granted a piece
of land. That land can be used to grow magic herbs. Even though it is

55
not a huge piece, but it remains a dream of every disciple. After all,
with a piece of land, there is no need to do chores or go down the
mountain to buy magic herbs. It must be said, level two magic herbs,
even though not expensive, if needed daily, even somewhat wealthy
people may not be able to bear the costs. Not to mention level three
magic herbs. That's why it's still most satisfying to have one's own
piece of land.

You XiaoMo looks over the ground covered in weeds. Isn't this a
convenient piece of land? To think that I was agonizing over how to
find chores to earn merit points for the past two days. At this time,
he is already certain that this dimension belongs to that blue
teardrop on his chest. Although he doesn't know why there is a
dimension in the blue teardrop, but since it is on his body, as long as
nothing happens to it, this dimension should not disappear. This way,
if he is to plant magic herbs in this space, it presumably wouldn't be
discovered by anyone else.

Immediately putting his thoughts into action, You XiaoMo rolls up his
sleeves and gets ready to start weeding. Even though weeding is very
tiring, but thinking that he would soon have a big piece of usable
land, You XiaoMo is full of excitement. This sense of excitement is
transformed into motivation. When he finally completes a ten meter
square plot, he is so tired that he can no longer move his fingers. No
pain no gain! That's just how it is!

You XiaoMo puts the weeds in a pile. He takes off his filthy clothes
and takes another bath in the lake before returning to the outside
world. Lying on the bed, You XiaoMo feels that his whole body feels
amazingly fresh. Nothing left of the dead tired feeling he felt after
weeding. Once again he sighs in wonder at the magical properties of
the lake water. After a few baths in the lake, he made a discovery.
The lake's water has the ability to restore the body and mind. Like

56
this time, he was obviously so dead tired, but after a bath, he feels
an unprecedented sense of refreshment. As if he has unlimited
energy reserves. Thinking of it, You XiaoMo can't help giggling in
delight, hugging his pillow tightly to his chest. He feels as if he has
picked up a treasure, getting happier the more he thinks about it
before finally falling asleep.

The next day, he is awake before first light. Taking advantage of the
fact that it's still not time for morning class, You XiaoMo flips through
the books he borrowed from the library once more. Confirming that
he has a firm grasp of the contents, he picks up the books and heads
to the library. This trip, his first aim is to return the four books he
borrowed before. The second aim is to borrow more books. He is
afraid that the old man guarding the library would object to him
borrowing too many books so he decides to return the ones he has.

Joy puts heart into a man, You XiaoMo is no exception. But excessive
walking on air may result in tragedy just around the corner. So when
he hears two people talking on the other side of the wall, he
suddenly feels like stabbing both his ears. He had always thought
that those schemes and intrigues on TV is very far from his reality. So
much so that he would never have any contact with them. For the
first time, he finds out that they are actually quite close to him.

"Elder brother, since Junior sister likes you, why do you still keep her
at arm's length?"

57
Chapter 16 - Precision control
You XiaoMo feels a little uneasy. Just when he was hesitating over
whether he should continue eavesdropping, the two people walk
further away, their voices getting softer. He practically can't hear
"Elder brother's" reply, or maybe he didn't answer. Whatever the
case, he didn't hear it. Even though he didn't her the "Elder
brother's" voice, You XiaoMo subconsciously thinks back to the pair
he encountered in the library. Could it be the Junior sister they
referred to is that girl? You XiaoMo doesn't dare to dwell on it
further, quickly forgetting all about the matter.

Hurrying to the library, You XiaoMo returns the four books before
borrowing another two. One of the books records the magic herbs
found on LongXiao continent up to level six. It also has colored
drawings. Most of the common magic herbs are included. The other
book is on basic alchemy. Tomorrow he will start refining magic pills.
It would be good to read up beforehand on the important points so
that he would know what to do if something goes wrong.

You XiaoMo leaves in high spirits after borrowing the books,

completely unaware that the old man guarding the library suddenly
opens his eyes and scrutinizes him. He has guarded the library for
almost one hundred years and this is the first time he has seen a
probationary disciple run here twice every three days. Although he
has inferior inborn talent, he is a hard working baby. But that's all it
is, the old man soon shuts his eyes again.

After this, You XiaoMo simply brings along the books to the canteen
for breakfast. Since he spent some time looking for books at the
library, when he arrives, there is a sea of people. The food is also
mostly gone. Luckily he is not a rice bucket. After breakfast, You

58
XiaoMo follows along several disciples who were going the same way
towards the Hall of Enchanted Herbs.

For todays lesson, Elder brother Fang no longer focuses on book

knowledge. Since they have already stimulated the force of the soul,
today they can start trying to refine magic pills. Elder brother Fang
brings them to a stone room. Five cauldrons are placed in a row, on
stone platforms. Next to each is a rectangle wooden table.

"From today onwards, this is where you will be refining magic pills.
Now choose one cauldron and stand by it."

You XiaoMo is standing at the back, so by the time he goes over, the
other four have already chosen their cauldrons, leaving him the one
right at the back.

After seeing that they have chosen their cauldrons, Elder brother
Fang says, "Now look at the cauldron in front of you. It is the tool by
which you will refine magic pills. Level one and level two magic pills
can be refined in this cauldron."

Hearing him say level one and level two magic pills, You XiaoMo
blurts out, "Elder brother, don't tell me that level three magic pills
cannot be refined in this cauldron?"

The other four disciples immediately give him looks of contempt.

Elder brother clearly stated level one and level two. Of course level
three cannot be refined in this cauldron and yet he actually asks such
a stupid question. You XiaoMo dreadfully regrets it after the words
popped out of his mouth.

Fang ChenLe smiles, but does not rebuke him, "Level three magic
pills is the first threshold for mages. It requires the use of a stronger

59
force that an ordinary cauldron would not be able to support. So
changing cauldrons is required at every stage unless one starts out
with a relatively good cauldron."

You XiaoMo hangs down his head, it seems to him that is again a
question of money.

Following that, Fang ChenLe explains how to use the cauldron.

Simply speaking, it is to transport the force of the soul into the
cauldron. Because ordinary cauldrons have three small openings on
the top, the soul force has to be divided into three before entering
the cauldron. Therefore this depends on how skilled a mage is in
manipulating the soul force. If the skill is bad, even with top grade
magic herbs, with good luck, a low grade magic pill will be produced,
with bad luck, the magic herbs will be rendered useless. Therefore
the ability to control the soul force with precision is very important
when refining magic pills.

Fang ChenLe has his own things to take care of, so he can't stay by
their side while they practice. So he calls over a relatively younger
disciple named Wu to help out. After he leaves, You XiaoMo and the
others throw themselves into practice.

Everything is hard in the beginning. This saying is quite true. Just

when You XiaoMo is deep in thought trying to figure out how to
divide the soul force, one of the other disciples goes ahead
impatiently. *peng* The cauldron flies from the explosion. When You
XiaoMo looks over, that disciple is already red-faced, full of disbelief.

Big brother Wu who the Elder brother had entrusted them to doesn't
seem fazed, since he has witnessed more unexpected things. He
walks over and gives the disciple a few pointers. The others quickly
prick up their ears, including You XiaoMo. You XiaoMo takes a deep

60
breath. When his concentration is at a high point, he sees a white
diaphanous ball in front of him. That's the essence of the soul force.
Under his control, he divides the soul force into three equal parts,
before bringing them close to the three openings and drops them in.
He can feel the soul force flooding the ice-cold narrow space. He can
even 'see' what is happening inside. Dark surface, metal that is both
black and hard with the occasional glimmer from other metals. Going
down the openings, he finally 'sees' the whole space. It's a cavity
with nothing else.

You XiaoMo moves the soul force around the space before retrieving
it. When he snaps out of it, he feels that the stone room is strangely
quiet. He raises his head to see the others staring blankly at him,
including Big brother Wu who is looking at him in amazement.

Notes:
twice every three days - almost every day
mountains and oceans of people - sea of people
rice bucket - big eater

61
Chapter 17 - The first time in the
limelight
You XiaoMo feels embarrassed from being stared at. After some
hesitation, he asks, "May I ask if something's wrong?"

Immediately, everyone comes back to their senses. Other than Big

brother Wu, the other disciples wrinkle their brows. The relatively
expressionless Big brother Wu finally reveals a slight smile and nods
at him, "There's nothing wrong. You did pretty well. Successfully
dividing the soul force on the first try, like how Elder brother did
during his time."

These words are unmistakably words of praise. The other disciples

are immediately shocked. Big brother Wu actually compared him to
Elder brother. This clearly means that his ability to control the soul
force must be quite extraordinary. Then thinking of how they failed
after several tries, their faces turn quite unsightly. Their inborn talent
is about the same as that of You XiaoMo. Other than the one with
the yellow aura, the lowest among them, the other three are green.
But now they have been bested by the youngest disciple.
Furthermore, it's the one they dislike, leaving them suddenly feeling
dissatisfied.

You XiaoMo doesn't think much about it. After being praised by Big
brother Wu, he laughs a little in embarrassment. You XiaoMo really
didn't want to stand out. How would he know that he would succeed
in his first attempt? If he had known it would be like this, he would
have simply failed a few times to avoid this. Actually, he is aware that
these four disciples don't really like him. But he just doesn't want to
invite trouble, so he had always pretended to be clueless. Now that
he has outshone them, looks like there will be an added chip on their

62
shoulders!

Big brother Wu does not let him practice something else just
because he succeeded. After a word of praise, he lets them go on
practicing. You XiaoMo also doesn't want to stand out too much, so
he continues to practice dividing the soul force. But it gets really dull
repeating the same thing over and over again so a question starts to
form in his head. Can the soul force be divided into four? Thinking of
this, You XiaoMo secretly looks at the other disciples. They are all
completely absorbed. Big brother Wu is also not looking his way. But
he still needs to be careful. He doesn't dare to do it in the open. But
if he does it in the cauldron, it should be fine. You XiaoMo observes
the situation for a bit and only starts when he is certain that he won't
be found out.

First, he divides the soul force into three. Then he drops them into
the cauldron. Once they reach the bottom, he quietly divides each
further into another three, and let them run around in the cauldron.
Over here to his opening, then over there to that opening, even to
the extent of tying them in knots. In order to challenge himself, You
XiaoMo decides to tie a bow.

Just when he was playing to his heart's content, the other disciples
finally succeed. When You XiaoMo looks over at them, they all look
tired out and are sweating profusely. They also look spiritless, as if
they had used up too much of their energy, on the point of collapse.
Big brother Wu doesn't allow them to strain themselves further,
ordering them to stop and rest.

You XiaoMo quietly retrieves his line of sight. Looking down at the
soul force bow in his cauldron, he suddenly feels embarrassed. He
really didn't mean to be so exceptional. He doesn't understand why
the other four disciples are so dead tired just from dividing the soul

63
force. He himself is still full of vigor.

In order not to appear strong willed, You XiaoMo recalls his soul
force and then sits on the floor like the rest of them. Unexpectedly
Brother Chen at his side huffs in contempt. You XiaoMo looks up in
surprise and sees the raging flames of anger in Brother Chen's eyes.
Although it is not terribly obvious, it definitely wouldn't go
unnoticed. What could this be about?

How could he know that although he doesn't wish to stand out, but
anyone with eyes can see that he is not the tiniest bit tired. But he
still sits down with them to take a break, as if poking fun at them.
How can the four disciples not be furious! On the inside, You
XiaoMo's face is covered in tears. He really doesn't know what he has
done to offend them.

At this point, Big brother Wu who had just gone out comes back
inside. He heads straight for You XiaoMo with something in his
hands.

"These are level one magic herbs. You can all now start to practice
dissolving them."

Saying this, he places the magic herbs on the wooden tables. Six
types all together, twenty stalks for each type. Other than him, the
other disciples also receive their share but they were only given
three types. One can well imagine the other four disciples adding
one more chip on their shoulders.

You XiaoMo turns his head and quietly sheds tears. Big brother Wu,
are you trying to make me even more hated?

64
Notes:
butterfly knot - bow

65
Chapter 18 - Success rate
Refining magic pills can't be considered hard nor easy. The process is
related to what they have just practiced, the ability to control the
soul force. If their ability is high, there will be less chance of failure.
The opposite is also true. That's why Big brother Wu gives You
XiaoMo six types of magic herbs, because his ability is high. This is
also a type of endorsement of his skill.

The other four disciples are extremely dissatisfied but they dare not
voice out their objections. This is a decision made by Big brother Wu.
He is of the same seniority as Elder brother. No matter how
dissatisfied they feel, they dare not object. Furthermore, the truth is,
they are not up to You XiaoMo's standard. If they were to make
unreasonable demands at this point, they could leave a bad
impression on Big brother Wu. But towards You XiaoMo, this time
they will certainly bear a grudge. He really stood out in front of Big
brother Wu, leaving them appearing useless in comparison.

You XiaoMo has no idea, but even if he does, what can he do? After
receiving the magic herbs, he simply throws himself into refining
magic pills. There are several steps in refining magic pills. Each step is
just like what he practiced before. Take the soul force and drop them
into the three small openings. The actual use for these three small
openings is to extract the magic herbs.

After introducing the soul force. You XiaoMo chooses three types of
magic herbs, contusion herb, living root herb, and peaceful spirit
flower. The magic pill from these three magic herbs is called
dispelling pill, used to dispel poison. But its effect is not great, only
able to dispel simple poisons.

66
At first, his actions are not smooth. This is after all his first time
extracting magic herbs. He is unable to remove enough of the
impurities. You XiaoMo discovers that he can actually distill them a
few times but he is worried about standing out again, so he only
does it once. After removing some impurities, he drops the magic
herbs that have turned into fine powder into the bottom of the
cauldron. He then puts both of his hands into the cauldron.

At this moment, both his hands are covered by a thin layer of

diaphanous white mist, his soul force. He takes the three types of
fine powder and blends them together. It's not just simply mixing
them together. There are specific steps to the process. If an error is
made in any one of the segments, it will affect the quality of the
magic pill or maybe even result in failure.

But these steps were already explained by Big brother Fang. You
XiaoMo also read them in the book, so he has them firmly in his
head. You XiaoMo recalls the teachings of Big brother Fang and
compares them to the steps recorded in the book. He sketches out
an outline in his mind and after finding no mistakes, starts the
process according to his plan.

If this was the him from before, he definitely could not have done it.
Although his power of memory in his past life was not bad, he still
couldn't have sketched the whole detailed outline in his mind. That's
why he is somewhat amazed at his achievement.

Blending of level one magic pills has five steps. Although simple, one
still can't afford to be careless. A high degree of concentration is
required. While referring to the outline in his head, You XiaoMo uses
his ten nimble fingers to go through the steps, slowly blending the
three magic herbs together. First step, second step, ....... when his
forehead is covered in a layer of sweat, he finally succeeds in refining

67
a level one magic pill.

The magic pill is light yellow, with a smooth and glossy surface. One
can smell the slight fragrance of the peaceful spirit flower, a very
pleasant fragrance. You XiaoMo examines the pill. This must be a low
grade magic pill. Normal magic pills, no matter what the color, if the
color is light, it means that the grade is low. His pill is light yellow so
it must be a low grade magic pill.

Big brother Wu comes over. He gives him a satisfied nod after seeing
the magic pill in his hand. Although it is a low level magic pill of
rather low quality, but succeeding in the first try is considered very
fortunate. After a few words of praise, he returns to where he was.

Things like refining magic pills, it's up to the master to lead them
through the door, but the rest depends on the individual. Elder
brother Fang took the place of Master Kong to teach them refining
magic pills. But he only covered the basics. The rest depends on the
individual's ability to grasp the concept. So today's class can be
considered the final class with Big brother Fang.

After seeing that they have all grasped the basics of refining magic
pills, Big brother Wu doesn't continue to watch over them, only
urging them to continue practicing in the afternoon. Just before
leaving, he tells them one thing.

"I'm not sure if Big brother Fang already told you this, regarding the
magic pills you make. Each magic pill can be exchanged for one merit
point. But each day you can only earn up to ten merit points."

Hearing the first part, You XiaoMo is surprised and delighted. He

never thought that he could earn merit points by refining magic pills.
Although it is only one point for one pill, it's still better than nothing.

68
Just when he starts to calculate how many pills he should make each
day, Big brother Wu's last words destroys all his plans. There is
obviously no such thing as a free lunch!

But then, this restriction is actually necessary. If not, everyone will

refine level one magic pills to earn merit points. This would also use
up a lot of level one magic herbs. Also, the various tasks in Earth
peak will be left undone.

You XiaoMo stays in the stone room and refines magic pills through
the whole afternoon. Big brother Wu did not give out a lot of magic
herbs, but because he just stimulated his soul force yesterday, the
reserves of his soul force is not full. He is unable to sustain too much
depletion, so he has to take a break after every five pills. He only
finishes using up the magic herbs when the sun is about set.

Of the forty portions he received, he did not waste a single one. But
these forty magic pills are low grade pills. Although his success rate is
a hundred percent, he still needs to improve the quality.

You XiaoMo is not worried. After tidying up, You XiaoMo goes to
submit his work before heading to the canteen.

69
Chapter 19 - Before going down the
mountain.

When You XiaoMo goes to submit his work, the disciple that records
the results was very surprised. Forty level one magic pills. For a new
disciple, this number is quite amazing. But because they are low
grade magic pills, he only needs to hand over half. The other half is
his to keep. TianXin sect definitely does not lack level one magic pills.
Especially low grade magic pills because even if they were to sell
them, they wouldn't bring in much money. Today, You XiaoMo's
gains are twenty level one magic pills and ten merit points.

Level one magic pills are not worth much to TianXin sect. But for You
XiaoMo, it's a valuable opportunity. Yesterday, after he figured out
that he could plant magic herbs in the blue teardrop dimension, an
idea formed in his head. He plans to grow level two magic herbs in
that space but he needs seeds. Although Earth peak collects all types
of magic herb seeds, but because he is brand new probationary
disciple, if he were to act rashly, he would only attract attention. You
XiaoMo doesn't want to risk exposing his dimension, so he is left with
buying seeds from the foot of the mountain.

But buying seeds requires LongXiao continent currency. Before this,

he had rummaged through all of "You XiaoMo"'s belongings.
Surprisingly he only has two sets of clothes and nothing else, leaving
him feeling depressed. No money means he has to first make money.
Yesterday he was fretting over this. He never thought that today he
would get this opportunity. So, You XiaoMo decides that two days
later, he would apply for permission to go down the mountain.

In the evening, You XiaoMo doesn't go carry water for his bath.

70
Nowadays, he just heads straight for the lake in his dimension. He is
also not worried that other people would suspect him because there
are many here that don't take baths for two months.

Upon entering the dimension, You XiaoMo is not in a hurry to take a

bath. Yesterday he tired out himself to point of death clearing a ten
meter square plot. Although the area is not small, but since there are
many types of magic herbs, he would definitely need more land
soon. So You XiaoMo carries on with his huge weeding project. This
night, he clears a big patch of land before taking a bath.

The next day, You XiaoMo heads to the stone room as usual. The
other four disciples are already there. Although they give him
unpleasant looks, they don't say any hurtful words because Elder
brother also arrives, just a few steps behind You XiaoMo.

Seeing You XiaoMo, Fang ChenLe smiles, "Little brother, I already

heard from Little brother Wu. Good job. Worthy of my
acknowledgement of you."

Hearing this the delight You XiaoMo feels from seeing him
immediately drops to half. Yet another one trying to get him into
trouble. When Elder brother said those words, he clearly felt the
surrounding atmospheric pressure plummet.

"Elder brother, there is something I need your help with. Is this a

convenient time?" You XiaoMo tries his best to ignore the other four
disciples.

"What is it?" Fang ChenLe asks.

"I would like to go down the mountain in two days. May I ask for
permission now?"

71
Thinking it is something serious, Fang ChenLe smiles saying, "So it's
this matter. That's quite simple. If you want to go down the
mountain, you just have to ask Little brother Wu. He is in charge of
this area. But since you have just arrived, you can only stay one
night. After that, you must return."

You XiaoMo didn't expect that it would be someone he knew.

Praising heaven and earth, he thanks Elder brother.

"Elder brother, there's one more thing. That is.. May I take this
cauldron back with me?" You XiaoMo looks at the level one cauldron
on the stone platform, with a gleam in his eyes. If he had the money,
he would buy one for himself at the foot of the mountain.

Fang ChenLe is stunned but soon nods, "You may."

Level one cauldrons are not a precious things, easily bought from
outside. Furthermore, Little brother is asking to increase his training
of his own accord. He feels extremely happy. After all, it's someone
he personally trained.

After getting a positive answer, You XiaoMo is delighted. His success

rate in refining magic pills is just as high as before but the grade is
still unchanged. Although the magic herbs provided by the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs is not the best, but if the magic herbs are distilled
multiple times, even if the grade stays the same, the associated risk
of the magic pill will be reduced considerably. But You XiaoMo
doesn't want to stand out, so he purposely only distills the magic
herbs once. But once in a while he would make a pill that has been
distilled multiple times. The pill still has the same color so as long as
no one looks too closely, he won't be found out. Like this, the time
slowly trickles by while he refines magic pills.

72
Just when the last disciple leaves the room, You XiaoMo finally
finishes the last magic pill. Wiping off his sweat, he sees that he
refined ninety level one magic pills today. More than twice of
yesterday's. Maybe it's because he is now more familiar with the
process, so his speed also increases considerably. You XiaoMo tidies
up and brings the magic pills to Uncle Zhao.

Uncle Zhao's full name is Zhao Zhen, in charge of recording the

distribution of magic herbs and collection of magic pills of everyone
in Earth peak. Yesterday, You XiaoMo came here to submit his magic
pills. You XiaoMo had left an impression on Zhao Zhen. This
probationary disciple had submitted twenty level one magic pills
yesterday. A success rate of a hundred percent, that in his records, is
only achieved by five people in the whole of Earth peak. Of course it
is an Earth peak record for a disciple refining magic pills for the first
time.

73
Chapter 20 - Accumulate energy pill
You XiaoMo hands over the forty pills that he had set aside. Uncle
Zhao flips through the records. Ninety level one magic pills.
Surprisingly a complete success. Again another record. But he's only
a little surprised. After all, a high success rate for level one magic pills
is not a big deal. During the exchange, Uncle Zhao gives him a magic
bag to store his magic pills. The magic bag has a capacity of five
square meters. TianXin sect has plenty of these small scale bags.
Each disciple is entitled have one. Fang ChenLe did not give them the
bags earlier because he was busy.

Although the capacity is rather small, but it's better than nothing.
However, You XiaoMo is not like the other disciples whose faces lit
up upon receiving the magic bags. That's because he had already
figured out how to deal with this issue. But in front of Uncle Zhao, he
leaves an impression of someone that is not easily fazed.

Following this, You XiaoMo asks Uncle Zhao for a hundred portions
of magic herbs. Uncle Zhao is not surprised, quickly sorting and
counting the magic herbs before handing them over to him. This is
because he is not the first one to bring the cauldron back to the
room. Hardworking and smart Earth peak disciples will also do it that
way. After that, You XiaoMo smoothly obtains permission from Elder
brother Wu to go down the mountain.

In the dead of the night, when everything is quiet, You XiaoMo takes
out the cauldron that he brought back from the stone room. Then he
takes out the one hundred portions of magic herbs from the magic
bag and places them on the table. The reason why he brought back
the cauldron is so that he can refine magic pills at night. But they will
be different from the ones he refines during the day. This time he is

74
going to try to reduce the risk associated with the magic pills.

Because the quality of the magic herbs is a limiting factor, even if his
talent is great, he has no way of improving the grade of the magic
pills. So he can only work on the distillation step, to reduce the risk
associated with taking magic pills.

During the day, You XiaoMo observed the other disciples when they
were refining magic pills. He discovered that when they distilled the
magic herbs, they could do it only one or two times, not more. So the
risk associated with the resulting magic pills is only reduced by
fifteen percent. That leaves the low grade magic pills with twenty
percent risk. So he thought to himself, if he were to further distill the
herbs, would the risk get lower? He doesn't dare to attempt it during
the day so he only chooses to do so at night.

He puts the cauldron on the table and picks up three stalks of magic
herbs - rock jasmine, winter ice herb, and korean mint. These three
magic herbs make up the Accumulate energy magic pill. The
Accumulate energy pill is directed at martial artists.

Usually before entering the world of mystics, martial artists are

ordinary people. Ordinary people need to open up their the
meridians in their bodies in order to become martial artists. Opening
up the meridians require the assistance of the spiritual energy of the
universe. Therefore, if they do not have help from a master, they can
only rely on the Accumulate energy magic pill.

The accumulate energy magic pill is able to briefly concentrate

spiritual energy in the body. This spiritual energy is able to help in
opening the meridians. But because the Accumulate energy magic
pill is a level one magic pill, its effect is limited and it also has a high
associated risk. Therefore, most people will choose not take the

75
Accumulate energy magic pill unless it's the last resort.

Of course, You XiaoMo is aware of this. But he also knows that the
main reason why people do not take the Accumulate energy pill, is
because the risk is too high. If not careful, it is possible that it will
cause the spiritual energy to run amok in the body. Not everyone will
be able to survive the fallout. But if the risk is reduced, the outcome
would be different. The effect of one low grade Accumulate energy
pill is limited, but if multiple pills are taken and if the risk is not high,
then the choice would be easier. When the time comes for him to
sell them, he should be able to get a higher price. But this is just
what he thinks, the reality will depend on the effect of the
Accumulate energy magic pills he refines.

Thinking of this, You XiaoMo throws the magic herbs into the
cauldron and starts the distillation process. The distillation process
involves the removal of impurities before dropping them into the
cavity of the cauldron. Doing this repeatedly gets harder with each
repetition, using up more and more soul force.

During the day, it took You XiaoMo the time to brew half a small cup
of tea to refine one magic pill. But with the additional two rounds of
distillation, each magic pill now takes twice as long. Although the
time needed is increased, the risk actually drops. It's unclear how
much risk is reduced. The light blue color of the magic pill appears a
little stronger. The difference is noticeable when examined closely.

You XiaoMo doesn't know how to judge the risk of magic pills. After
trying out one pill, he goes on to the second one. Like this, he only
manages to refine fifty pills through the night, half of which were
only distilled once.

During the day, he goes to the stone room as usual. Refining one

76
hundred magic pills, just like the day before. At night he returns to
the room and continues refining pills without sleep or rest, finally
making it through the first batch of magic pills.

The next day, he gathers all his belongings and prepares to go down
the mountain.

Notes:
rock jasmine - Androsace Umbellata
winter ice herb - Rabdosia Rubescens
korean mint - Agastache Rugosa

77
Chapter 21 - Life story and the winged
bird

It's not just him alone going down the mountain this time. It's
unclear how many TianXin sect disciples go down the mountain each
month. You XiaoMo doesn't know how many disciples there will be
from the other peaks, but there are four others from Earth peak
going down with him. Among the five, other than the two who are
fulfilling the orders from the masters to buy supplies, the other two
are going home to visit their families, after being away for a year.

As for "You XiaoMo"'s family, he had asked the other disciples that
entered together with him. He found out that he was raised in a
single-parent home. His mother who raised him passed away from
overwork when he was seven years old. After that, he was entrusted
to his mother's sister's family. His aunt's family lives in Peach
blossom village. It's a small place but very famous for its peach
blossoms. When he reached 17 years old, his aunt's family was
looking for a reason to drive him out of the house. It just so
happened that the elders from TianXin sect came looking for
disciples. A simple life story. You XiaoMo could almost guess how his
aunt's whole family must not like 'him'.

But he heaves a sigh of relief knowing that 'You XiaoMo' doesn't

have a close relationship with his aunt's family. A bad relationship
means his aunt's family would not welcome his return. Not needing
to return means he wouldn't have to face the danger of being
discovered that the soul is no longer the same. Furthermore, he
doesn't know how he would handle his aunt's family. But most
importantly, he doesn't know where Peach blossom village is. He also
doesn't know what anyone in his aunt's family looks like. If he were

78
to return and run into his aunt's family without recognizing them,
that would be extremely dangerous!

Because there only five disciples from Earth peak going down the
mountain, Master Kong is worried that they would run into danger.
So he asked Heaven peak's Uncle Mo Gu to help look after them.
Uncle Mo Gu is leading some disciples to purchase necessities. He is
the most senior disciple on this trip so it's only natural to entrust the
disciples to him. They are after all TianXin sect disciples.

Other than disciples from the Mage division, You XiaoMo also heard
that disciples from the Warrior division will also be accompanying
them this time. Although disciples from the Mage division are skilled
in refining magic pills, their military ability is generally not strong.
That's why disciples from the Military division would accompany the
group every time a high level mage goes down the mountain.
Especially since the high level mage going down this time is Uncle Mo
Gu.

You XiaoMo follows the other disciples and waits at the foot of the
Earth peak mountain for an hour before Uncle Mo Gu and the others
show up. They could hear their rowdy voices from afar but none of
them dared to make any complaints. Compared to the five moody
disciples, that group of people could be described as raucous. Each
and every one chatting and laughing, as if they are going on a
pleasure trip. But the one attracting the most attention is not Uncle
Mo Gu. It's a girl surrounded and fawned on by a few young male
disciples. One look at her and You XiaoMo can't help but sigh at the
hand of fate.

That girl is the Junior sister he saw twice in the library. At that time
he had guessed that she is a Heaven peak disciple. Looks like that's
true. However, that Elder brother is nowhere in sight. After meeting

79
up, Uncle Mo Gu doesn't say anything, not mentioning the issue of
being late. Just like this, they grandly head down the mountain.

TianXin sect is located in the middle of lush green mountain peaks. It

is said that this place was opened up by the founder of TianXin sect
to serve as a sanctuary. Later when TianXin sect became the largest
sect in Long Xiao continent, the sanctuary also expanded a great
deal. With the lush green mountain peaks as the center, TianXian
sect's domain covers everything within a hundred mile radius.

Today their destination is the town on the outskirts of this hundred

mile radius. It's also the closest town to TianXin sect, where TianXin
sect gets their supplies from each month. Because the distance is
quite far, after they descend the mountain, they get on winged birds
to reach their destination.

TianXin sect has about a hundred winged birds. They are specially
raised for transportation. They are about five to ten meters tall. They
are mainly used by the Mage division because unlike the Mage
division, martial artists from the Warrior division are able to fly on
their own once their have reached a certain level. Some winged birds
can hold five people so You XiaoMo and his brothers go ahead and
take one of those. Their quiet moody atmosphere contrasts sharply
with the others ahead of them.

The winged birds are very fast. The hundred mile distance is covered
in the time it takes to brew half a cup of tea. The three winged birds
lands in a clearing. You XiaoMo looks around. It's like a public square
surrounded by a few short buildings. There are also a few thatched
pens holding more winged birds. Needless to say, this place must
have been set up as a TianXin sect outpost.

You XiaoMo jumps down from the back of the winged bird and just

80
as he is about to follow the group, a familiar face walks up to them.
Someone that makes him feel guilty when he sees him. He is none
other than the one whose private conversation he overheard two
days ago. The Elder brother 'Big brother Xiao'. He later finds out that
it's not the xiao character from yunxiao. Rather it's the xiao
character from xiaoxiang. His full name is Lin Xiao, the most talented
disciple of the Warrior division. He is also the Elder disciple of the
Grand Master.

Notes:
yunxiao - ?? - the skies
xiaoxiang - ?? - portrait

81
Chapter 22 - Magic pill shop.

No wonder he didn't see the disciples from the Warrior division at

the foot of the mountain. Looks like they had already reached the
town before them. But You XiaoMo didn't expect that the Military
division would send Lin Xiao. Thinking over what he overheard the
other day, he feels all the more that something unexpected will
happen on this trip.

You XiaoMo had planned that he would part from the rest after they
leave this area. Furthermore, the things that he plans to do should
not be revealed to others.

Tang YunQi is the daughter of the Grand Master. The most favored
Junior sister of TianXin sect. The whole way here, the thing that You
XiaoMo heard the most was the *ge ge* sound of her coy giggling.
Especially when the others were lavishing praise on her, as if it made
her feel especially pleased. How long the winged birds flew, was how
long she giggled.

When Lin Xiao appears, Tang YunQi is the first one to rush over. After
an extremely nauseating "Big brother Xiao", she throws herself at Lin
Xiao. But she was destined to miss as Lin Xiao dodges out of the way.
Tang YunQi does not feel embarrassed nor humiliated, as if this a
common occurrence. She wraps her hands around Lin Xiao's arm and
look up at him adoringly. The other disciples are full of envy,
including the four disciples with You XiaoMo.

Lin Xiao's relationship with them is quite good. Especially with Mo

Gu. Before, from the time they met up until now, You XiaoMo didn't
see Mo Gu smile even once. His expression was always very serious,

82
as if someone owes him money. Now, after Lin Xiao appears, a smile
is hanging on his face while he nods from time to time watching Lin
Xiao and Tang YunQi. Upon meeting, they exchange a few
pleasantries before setting out.

Leaving the square, Mo Go turns around and says, "We have reached
He Ping town. Buy what you have to buy. We will meet up here
tomorrow at this time. We will not wait for those who come late."

Saying this he leads his disciples toward the bustling market along
with all the disciples from the Warrior division, leaving not a single
one.

The one leading the Earth peak disciples, Big brother Liu sighs softly,
as if this is something he expected. Soon after, he says to You
XiaoMo and the others, "From here, I will go with Junior brother Li to
make the purchases Master has requested. You all should finish what
you all want to do within a day. You all heard what Uncle Mo said. He
will not wait for you if you are late tomorrow."

"We understand, Big brother Liu."

Big brother Liu nods before heading off with Junior brother Li in the
same direction as Uncle Mo Gu. After they leave, the other disciples
head off in their respective directions, going home to visit relatives.
Only then does it dawn on You XiaoMo that this is his first time in He
Ping town .......

You XiaoMo, his first time in He Ping town has no choice but to head
in the same direction as Big brother Liu, towards the most lively area
of town. From there, he slowly searches, asking around when lost,
finally finding what he is looking for.

83
.......

He Ping town is most famous for magic pills. Because of its proximity
to TianXin sect, they frequently have dealings with the disciples from
TianXin sect. They also do business with other smaller sects. Over
time, He Ping town slowly becomes more developed, bringing along
the surrounding smaller villages.

The magic pill shops are all located on the busiest street in He Ping
town, called North street. The south facing side of North street is a
row of Magic pill shops. It's the most crowded place, practically
customers in every shop, with some to the point of overcrowding.

You XiaoMo stands at the side of the street and observes with his
eyes wide open for a quite a while. He finally settles on a shop that is
not too popular but not too deserted, and walks inside.

When he walks in, a young man dressed as an ancient shop

attendant immediately comes up to him, speaking in a polite tone,
"Distinguished guest, are you here to buy magic pills?"

You XiaoMo glances over the shop, before returning to the brilliant
smile of the young man, saying in a small voice, "Do you accept
magic pills here?"

The young man freezes before coming to his senses, smiling without
changing the look in his eyes saying, "We do. Our shop also accepts
magic pills. Distinguished guest please come this way."

Buying and selling are not done in the same place. In order to protect
the privacy of the customers, most shops set up inner rooms.
Furthermore, the magic pill shops of North street have good
reputations so one usually does not have to be worried about getting

84
cheated or robbed. You XiaoMo thinks that since they dare to set up
shop close to TianXin sect, they wouldn't dare to cheat people. So he
follows him inside without apprehension.

The one attending to him switches to the shop manager. A sixty

something year old man with grey hair on both his temples. His
energy though is pretty good for a sixty year old, with a smiling face
that makes him seem even more [Link] manager sees You
XiaoMo and surreptitiously gives him the once over. Rather than
make small talk, he goes straight to the point.

"Distinguished guest, what level magic pill are you selling?"

"It's ....... level one magic pills." You XiaoMo answers, a little
embarrassed.

When he just stepped inside, he took stock of the situation in the

shop. Most of the magic pills are level two and level three. There are
level one magic pills but definitely not many. This makes him feel a
little inadequate, since the magic pills in his hand are all level one.

The manager is stunned for a moment before saying politely,

"Distinguished guest, would you like to take out your magic pills and
let this old man have a look?"

You XiaoMo silently takes out a few bottles of magic pills. A total of
four, containing four different types of magic pills. Actually, there are
only two types. It's only that the number of distillation rounds is
different, so the quality is different, that's why he put them in
different bottles.

The manager picks up one of the bottles and pours out a pill and
examines it closely. It's a common Dispelling magic pill. He picks up

85
another bottle and sees its also a very common pill, an Accumulate
energy pill. He can't help but frown. He had thought that this young
man is from a major sect, so the level one magic pills he brings
should be something out of the ordinary. Such as top grade magic
pills. But after looking at two bottles and finding that they are regular
run of the mill low grade magic pills, he can only feel disappointed.

But for someone who has been in this line of business for many
years, living all these years, he has seen many unexpected things. He
quickly recovers and patiently picks up the third bottle. One look at
the magic pill he pours out leaves him stunned speechless.

Note:
raise horse bit towards different routes - part ways
sees the mountain upon opening the door - straight to the point

86
Chapter 23 - First bundle of riches.

The manager looks at the magic pill in the palm of his hand in
amazement. This is clearly an Accumulate energy pill. But it's not
quite the same. Looking at it carefully, you can tell the difference
from the color. The light blue color of this magic pill is a little deeper
when compared to the previous bottle. He has seen this
phenomenon before but those were all mid-grade magic pills. The
color of mid-grade magic pills are naturally deeper than low grade
magic pills. But this Accumulate energy magic pill in his hand is not a
mid-grade magic pill because its color is lighter than a mid-grade
magic pill. The manager quickly picks up the fourth bottle. Inside are
Dispelling magic pills. They are like the Accumulate energy magic pills
in the third bottle. He, who has seen much and experienced much, is
still confused. Why is it that even though they are all low grade magic
pills, but yet their depth of color is different?

"Distinguished guest, this one?" The manager finally asks, unable to

hold back any longer.

You XiaoMo had long before heaved a sigh of relief when he saw the
astonished expression on the manager's face. He presumes that it
means his magic pills are still in play. He should be able to sell them
at a slightly better price.

"These two bottles are not the same as the other two. Although they
are low grade magic pills, their associated risk is not high. Only about
ten percent."

Hearing this, the manager is stunned. He looks at You XiaoMo as if he

is looking at strange object. There is also a hint of conflicting

87
emotions. He really did not expect that this young man would bring
him something so shocking. He is someone that sells magic pills, so
of course he knows a thing or two about magic pills. From his past
experience, even if distillation rounds were increased, the risk
associated with low grade magic pills have never fallen below fifteen
percent. He doesn't know if other mages have achieved this before
but this is the first time he has come across this. If this were to get
out to others, it would most probably lead to an huge commotion.
Low grade magic pills with a ten percent risk. Lower by five percent
but enough to cause the people of Long Xiao continent to rush
forward like ducks. If he was able to monopolize the source of these
magic pills .......

The manager looks at You XiaoMo with a complicated expression.

This young man is really one of a kind. After muttering to himself, he
asks, "Distinguished guest, did you refine all these magic pills by
yourself?"

"I refined them by myself, but I was taught by my master."

You XiaoMo looks at the manager with shining eyes. May God forgive
me for telling lies. From the shocked look in the manager's eyes, he
knows that the pills he refined must be quite different from the usual
ones. In order to avoid unnecessary complications, he doesn't dare
to say that he figured this out by fumbling around by himself. So he
can only implicate that master of his with whom he has yet to have a
formal meeting, Kong Wen.

"And your honorable master is?" The manager is not surprised. In

fact, he feels that this answer is the most probable.

"This, I'd rather not say."

88
You XiaoMo doesn't want to flash the TianXin sect trump card lightly.
Even though he knows that it would make the manager look at him
in a new light, it could also bring about problems. If this were to get
back to TianXin sect, he wouldn't be able to finish what he had
dished out.

The manager signals that he understands. If he knew this technique,

he would also keep it under wraps. But since this young man is able
to bring these magic pills out to sell, it must mean that he has
permission from his master. This way, it is also easier to handle.

The manager puts the magic pills back into the bottles and says
seriously, "Distinguished guest, since you want to sell these magic
pills, I will give you a suitable price and we will see how you feel
about it. The two ordinary bottles for twenty gold pieces per bottle.
For the other two bottles of magic pills, I will give you ten gold pieces
per pill. Is this acceptable for you?"

At once, You XiaoMo's deep black eyes start to shine. Ten gold pieces
for one pill versus twenty gold pieces for one bottle, this difference
seems really too much. But the price of twenty gold pieces per bottle
seems higher than what he figured out from the other shops. The
four bottles hold twenty magic pills each. But this is only half of what
he has. He had kept the other half to try out other shops but now
that the manager has given him such a high price, he can't help but
feel a little touched. But ----

"Manager, the price you quoted, seems higher than that from other
shops, yes?" You XiaoMo asks tentatively.

He doesn't think he has a face that would arouse sympathy from the
manager, so there must be another reason for the high price.

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The manager smiles, "Distinguished guest is a really smart person.
Indeed the price I quoted is higher than the other shops. I only hope
that distinguished guest would continue to sell these magic pills to us
the next time if you have any. Even if not all, but if you would at least
reserve half for us."

You XiaoMo considers for a moment. This actually works. He already

didn't plan on publicizing this. Furthermore, the price given by the
manager is high. He wants to buy many magic herb seeds. He had
worried that the money he would get from selling these magic pills
wouldn't be enough, so this move by the manager is really like a
delivery of charcoal in snowy weather.

"Manager, I can sell these magic pills to you but I have a condition."

"What condition?" asks the manager.

You XiaoMo speaks cautiously, "I hope that you will not tell anyone
that these magic pills were refined by me. In short, don't tell anyone
anything about me. If you agree, aside from the magic pills for my
personal use, I will sell the rest to you."

"Deal!" the manager agrees without even having to think twice.

He was not planning on revealing anything anyway. Such a valuable

source, of course he would want to keep it firmly under his control.
Furthermore this condition is very reasonable.

After agreeing on the terms, the manager counts the money and
hands them over. Two bottles of ordinary magic pills is forty gold
pieces. Two bottles of special magic pills is four hundred gold pieces.
Altogether four hundred and forty gold pieces. This is You XiaoMo's
first bundle of riches in this world. From what he knows, an ordinary

90
household would be able to live for half a month on one piece of
gold.

91
Chapter 24 - Wooden furnishings shop
After leaving the magic pill shop, You XiaoMo brings his four
hundred and forty gold pieces to a shop selling wooden furnishings
on a different street. When he first heard the price the manager
quoted, he was very excited. He considered selling the remaining
magic pills in his magic bag to him but was a little apprehensive
about selling too many at one time. So after some consideration, he
decided to save them for his next trip down the mountain. But this
will also depend on how much the magic herb seeds costs. If four
hundred and forty gold pieces is not sufficient, he will go back and
sell them all.

The wooden furnishings shop, like its name suggests, sells articles
made from poplar, mahogany, birch and other types of wood. There
is only one wooden furnishings shop in the whole of He Ping town.
The shop is very big, taking up three shopfronts. Above hangs a very
big sign. Very conspicuous. You XiaoMo notices it immediately when
he gets there.

Numerous brand new cupboards are displayed, in all sizes. There are
also many dividers inside the cupboards. They are made from poplar-
like wood, appearing to have a shiny finish. There are a few
attendants in the store but they are all serving customers. But with
his sharp eyes, You XiaoMo sees a rather lonely figure standing in a
corner.

"Dong Jiu, a customer is here. Why are you not quickly attending to
him?"

Before he could open his mouth, the attendant nearest to him calls
out to that person with a disparaging tone. One can faintly detect

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some disdain and contempt. The person in the corner jumps in shock
as if he didn't expect that he would be called. When he looks up, You
XiaoMo sees a very young face. At first glance he looks to be not
older than fifteen years old. More like a twelve or thirteen year old
boy. Very thin as if suffering from malnutrition. When he smiles
shyly, two small dimples are faintly discernible. Dong Jiu walks up to
You XiaoMo.

Rubbing his hands, he asks You XiaoMo hesitantly, "Dis...

distinguished guest. Good morning. Are you here to buy wooden
furnishings?"

Unexpectedly, the attendant other snorts *chi*, mocking him softly,

"Visiting a wooden furnishing shop, of course it is to buy wooden
furnishings. Are you telling me he's here to buy magic pills?"

Dong Jiu flushes in embarrassment. You XiaoMo figures it's better to

let it be and points at the cupboards by the wall on the right.

"How much are those?"

Dong Jiu freezes for a moment. This is probably the first time
someone goes straight for the price without first asking about the
quality.

He stammers, " Tho... those are made from top grade wood with
exquisite workmanship. So they are a little more expensive than the
ones outside. The small one is one gold and fifty silver pieces. The big
one is three gold pieces. They can also be custom made."

"Then, I would like the big one. Oh, how many ready-made pieces do
you have?"

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You XiaoMo calculates the costs, one for three gold pieces is not
costly. He can afford to buy a few to store magic herbs and magic
pills. This trip down the mountain, he also plans to buy various
necessities. He does not plan to put them in his room, but in his
dimension. He had already decided that when the magic herbs he
plants are matured, he won't store them in the magic bag. Although
magic bags are convenient, they are not secure. If he were to lose
them or if someone discovers them, he can't bear to imagine the
consequences.

"Oh right, do you have complete sets or wooden furnishings?" You

XiaoMo turns around to ask as the thought crosses his mind.

Dong Jiu has never met someone so straightforward in his life. Even
is there was, they would have been snatched away by other
attendants. Furthermore his reaction and eloquence is not as good
as others so he has always been at the bottom in terms of monthly
sales. This encounter makes him feel as he is dreaming.

"Distinguished guest, would it better if you list out the things you
want to buy? Then I can check for you and tell you which ones we
don't have. How about it?" Dong Jiu asks cautiously.

"Then I'll leave it to you." You XiaoMo smiles while nodding.

He then lists out all the wooden furnishings he wants to add. He

discovers that this fellow called Dong Jiu actually has a pretty good
memory. After only hearing it once, he could repeat everything back
to him without a single mistake. Luckily everything he wants to buy is
in stock. You XiaoMo buys so many things, totaling above twenty
gold pieces.

Since it is a considerable sum for the wooden furnishings shop, it

94
attracts the attention of the shop manager. Seeing that Dong Jiu had
hooked such a big customer, he smiles from ear to ear. He then joins
forces with Dong Jiu to bring out all the things You XiaoMo wanted.
Because You XiaoMo has a magic bag, once the things were sorted
out, they just put them directly into the bag. Much less trouble than
moving them out. Then the manager adds up the prices, a total of
twenty six gold pieces. You XiaoMo has the funds, and the things he
is buying are all necessary items, so he doesn't feel pain spending the
money. After all, he now has a source of income.

Leaving the wooden furnishings shop, You XiaoMo doesn't know the
kind of fortune his appearance had brought to Dong Jiu. The
attendant that happily gave up this money making opportunity to
Dong Jiu is so vexed that he almost chews his teeth to bits. He had
seen that You XiaoMo was dressed plainly so he had assumed that he
wouldn't bring much business. It just so happened that Dong Jiu was
unoccupied, so he let him have the customer just to watch him make
a fool of himself. He never expected that it would turn out to be a big
fish. Unfortunately he also no chance of getting back at Dong Jiu
since the manager now regards Dong Jiu in a new light.

At the same time, Lin Xiao is going through a crisis of life and death.

95
Chapter 25 - Ridiculous fate.

South street, which is next to North street, is a famous street for

magic herbs. It is just like North street, the only difference being that
South street specializes in selling magic herbs. All types of magic
herbs, as long as they are level six and below are available here.
Most importantly, there are shops selling magic herb seeds on South
street. The availability of magic herb seeds is similar to that for magic
herbs, level six and below. But the amount of magic herb seeds is
less than magic herbs, especially for high level ones. That's because
the higher the level, the harder it is to grow from seeds. Furthermore
the time it takes to mature is also much longer. Therefore, very few
mages will buy magic herb seeds to grow. Most of them would buy
seeds that are level three and below. Even so, the number of people
who buy seeds are still very few.

You XiaoMo wants to buy quite a lot of magic herb seeds. The shop
with the most complete selection should probably the bigger magic
herb shops. But he doesn't immediately go in. He asks around
everywhere to roughly determine the prices for magic herb seeds
before settling on the biggest magic herb shop ------- Orchid pavilion.

The Orchid pavilion shopfront is bigger than the wooden furnishings

shop. Magic herbs and magic herb seeds are displayed separately.
The are fewer customers buying magic herb seeds. Since seeds don't
take up much space, the magic herb seeds only take up one
shopfront. A few scattered customers are inside making their
choices.

When You XiaoMo walks in, an attendant immediately greets him.

After explaining what he is here for, the attendant leads him right

96
away to where the level one to level three magic herb seeds are.

"Distinguished guest, you have come to right place. Our Orchid

pavilion has the most complete selection of magic herb seeds in He
Ping town. May I ask how much you would like to buy?" the
attendant turns around and asks politely.

You XiaoMo glances over the seeds on the shelves, saying "I would
like to buy all the level two seeds. How many types of level two
seeds do you have? How much are they?"

The attendant says, "Level two magic herb seeds, we have eighty
types. Each type sold in small packets. We have one hundred seeds,
two hundred seeds, five hundred seeds, one thousand seeds. Four
choices. Every five hundred seeds costs one gold piece."

You XiaoMo calculates carefully for a moment. If he were to buy the

five hundred seeds packet, eighty types will be eighty gold pieces.
That would leave him with three hundred and thirty four gold pieces.
He can probably buy some level three seeds.

"Then, what about level three seeds?" You XiaoMo asks further.

The attendant does not show any signs of impatience, and continues
to explain clearly: "We have sixty four types of level three seeds.
Each type is sold in the same quantities as level two seeds. Every five
hundred seeds cost four gold pieces."

You XiaoMo can't help from feeling a twitch in his eyelid. This is too
costly. Three gold pieces more than level two seeds and it's only one
level higher. It is unexpectedly so expensive. If he were to buy them
all, he would have to spend two hundred and fifty six gold pieces in
one go.

97
Seeing the change in his expression, the attendant could roughly
guess what was going on in his head. He says temptingly:
"Distinguished guest, if you want to buy level two and level three
seeds, we can give you one set of level one seeds for free."

You XiaoMo can't help feeling stunned. He suddenly feels as if he has

gone back to the modern age. The familiar promotional tactics,
although it is not buy one get one free. Although the value of a set of
level one seeds is only ten gold pieces.

In the end, You XiaoMo swallows the pain and buys them, spending
three hundred and thirty six gold pieces. Orchid pavilion throws in a
free set of level one seeds. A hundred seeds per packet. Although
not a lot, it's better than nothing. Besides, he also wants to try
planting level one magic herbs in his dimension. Although he can
reduce the risk of low grade magic pills to ten percent, they are after
all still low grade magic pills. The effect is not as good as mid or top
grade magic pills.

Leaving Orchid pavilion, You XiaoMo looks up at the sky. In a blink of

an eye, he feels that time is really flying by. Before he knows it, the
sun is about to set. Since they will only meet up tomorrow morning,
he can only fend for himself tonight. Luckily he still has over seventy
pieces of gold in his magic bag so he wouldn't have to sleep on the
streets tonight. Just now, while he buying the magic herbs, he also
asked about the location of the rest houses.

The rest houses are located on West street. Usually, those who come
to He Ping town to purchase necessities, such as the disciples from
TianXin sect, would descend on West street if they have to spend the
night. But which rest house would depend on one's individual
preference. It could just be bad luck but after going through a few

98
mid level rest houses, he is told by the managers that there are no
vacant rooms. At first, he was very surprised. Usually, mid-level rest
houses should have available rooms. Later he learns that this is the
first of the month, the time when the magic pill and magic herb
shops on North street and South street replenish their stocks. So this
time period is always the busiest time for He Ping town.

Left with no choice, You XiaoMo heads for the biggest rest house.
This rest house was especially recommended by the attendant at the
Orchid pavilion. It is operated by the same owner as the Orchid
pavilion. But because it is a little expensive, it is not You XiaoMo's
first choice.

It is now dinner time. The seating area is seventy to eighty percent

occupied. The waiters are eagerly attending to the customers.
Steaming hot dishes fill the whole rest house with fragrant aromas.
The manager is standing behind the counter flicking the abacus with
a serious and calculating expression.

Seeing him enter, the wrinkled old face of the manager lights up with
a smile, "Distinguished guest, would you like a room or are you here
for dinner?"

"I would like to spend the night." You XiaoMo replies.

The manager checks his books and says, "Distinguished guest, we

only have two rooms left. A main room is five gold pieces, would that
do?"

Stunned, You XiaoMo blurts out, "Can't you charge me a little less?"

Hearing these words, laughter breaks out behind him. Those sitting
close by must have overheard what he said. Most probably it's their

99
first time hearing someone bargaining with a rest house manager, so
they find it very funny.

The manager answers awkwardly: "Distinguished guest, this is the

price for our rooms, we can't charge any cheaper."

You XiaoMo is also a little embarrassed. He had only said that

unconsciously. But the reason why he didn't bargain when buying
the magic herb seeds is because the attendant had thrown in a free
set of level one seeds. Shouldn't he able to get a free meal from the
manager here? You XiaoMo toughens his scalp and hands over the
five gold pieces.

An attendant shows him to his room. Before he leaves, You XiaoMo

requests to have dinner brought to his room. The attendant did not
leave him waiting. Before the time it takes to brew a cup of tea, he
brings over the dishes. They smell, look, and taste great. In fact, it's
much better than what he has been eating in Earth peak. He later
finds out the the cost of the meal is included in the five pieces of
gold. Because the price is high, the service is also much better than
that given downstairs. The attendants also seem to be at his beck
and call, comparable to the service found in modern five star hotels.
So, the five star service that he didn't have the chance to enjoy in the
modern era, he now enjoys in Long Xiao continent.

After eating and drinking his fill, You XiaoMo starts to sort through
today's purchases. He transfers the wooden furnishings and seeds
into the tear drop, then locks the room door before entering the
dimension.

Under the blue skies, he had cleared a piece of land that is about
thirty square meters. Furthermore, he had already made the
necessary preparations, reconditioning the soil. He only needs to

100
scatter the seeds before sprinkling some water. That should do it.

But he doesn't immediately start scattering the seeds. Instead, he

places the wooden furnishings in a suitable spot before putting the
seeds in the various compartments. In order to make it easier, he
meticulously pastes a label on each compartment showing the type
of seeds in each compartment.

Once he is done with everything, it was already the hai period, a little
past nine. Leaving the dimension, You XiaoMo rubs his tummy. The
dinner from before has already been used up, so he simply gets up
and leaves the room, planning to look for food.

Just when he takes a few steps out of his room, the door of the
neighboring room opens suddenly. Someone dressed in a white robe
steps out. The robe looks simple but if you look carefully it is clear
that the robe is actually exquisite and luxurious. Simply on a whole
different level when compared to the extremely plain green robe on
his own body. When he looks up and sees the other person's face,
You XiaoMo immediately ?.

Why the hell? Why the hell must I run into Lin Xiao here? What
makes him most vexed is that Lin Xiao is walking towards him. You
XiaoMo can't help feeling conflicted. Should he greet him? Although
they have not formally met, they have already come across each
other multiple times, so it is possible that Lin Xiao recognizes him.

Seeing that he is almost in front of him, You XiaoMo's body

reflexively reacts faster than his chaotic mind. As if he is running into
a headmaster, he straightens his chest and calls out, "Greetings to
Elder brother!", just lacking the word headmaster which he luckily
does not blurt out.

101
Saying this, he immediately ?, because the other party looks at him in
surprise, with no sign of recognition. You XiaoMo suddenly has to
impulse to give himself a tight slap. That's what you get for shooting
your mouth off. After this incident, Lin Xiao is sure to remember him.

After recovering from his surprise, 'Lin Xiao' can only put on a gentle
and refined smile, saying while looking at him, "So you're my Junior
brother. Why are you not together with Uncle Mo Gu?"

Hearing these words, the look of horror on You XiaoMo's face can be
compared to that of someone seeing a ghost. This person is not
actually Lin Xiao, right?

Notes:
Egg pain = pain in the balls ~ ridiculous
hai period = 21:00-23:00
? - emoticon for OMG

102
Chapter 26 - Unfair conditions
You XiaoMo has only met Lin Xiao a few times. But he has never
seen him smile. Even when he was with the Junior sister or with
Uncle Mo Gu, he never smiled. Not to mention speaking in such a
gentle way to him. This is the first giveaway.

The second giveaway is his words. If he is the real Lin Xiao, he would
know that he would not be together with Uncle Mo Gu. They had
already parted ways this morning when they arrived in He Ping
town. If they are together, it would only happen tomorrow morning.
This only means the 'Lin Xiao' in front of him is not the one he has
seen before.

But he clearly admitted that he is Lin Xiao. Furthermore, his face is

exactly like that of Lin Xiao. If there is any difference, it would be his
clothes. The Lin Xiao in the morning wore a black robe. This Lin Xiao
is wearing a white robe. Not only have the clothes changed, the
demeanor and aura also feels like it is a completely different person.

You XiaoMo doesn't even care if the Lin Xiao in front of him is an
impostor. He only knows that the white-robed Lin Xiao gives off a
more dangerous vibe than the black-robed Lin Xiao.

He stammers: "Elder... Elder brother Lin, I still have things to do so I'll

be off. See you later!"

Saying this, he turns around to go, pretending that he doesn't see

that 'Lin Xiao' has something he wants to say. As a result, before he
could even take two steps, You XiaoMo feels his neck tightening,
leaving him unable to breathe. Soon after he is lifted off his feet,
soaring into the air and twirling around before coming face to face

103
with 'Lin Xiao', their noses less than five centimeters apart.

"El... El... Elder brother Lin?" A completely terrified You XiaoMo looks
at the handsome face right in front of him.

Ling Xiao doesn't speak but smiles slightly and heads back into room
closing the door with a *peng*. In his hands still hangs You XiaoMo.
Only when it is just the two of them, does he set You XiaoMo down.

Gaining his freedom, You XiaoMo immediately scoots away from Ling
Xiao. This action only makes everything clear. Ling Xiao confirms his
intention, dialing up the intensity. His smiling face dripping with
sweetness, becomes even more elitist and overbearing, like a
bloodthirsty gentleman. That's exactly right! A bloodthirsty
gentleman!

You XiaoMo realizes for the first time that someone can actually be
described as a bloodthirsty gentleman. Quite simply a marvelous
combination. If he was just a bystander, he would probably find it
wondrous. But now that he is one right in the center of it, he doesn't
feel one bit of excitement. He would rather not have this
opportunity.

"Great warrior, I don't know anything. I didn't see anything. For

real!" You XiaoMo has his hands over his head, trembling while
speaking those words. He then stares both expectantly and with
terror at that man, as if he is waiting for him to let him off in a big
show of mercy.

With his lips curved, Ling Xiao pressures him into a corner, his eyes
filled with interest and fixed on You XiaoMo, "Oh, what is it that you
know? And what is it that you saw?"

104
You XiaoMo freezes. He again feels a huge urge to give himself a
tight slap. Don't tell me that this man did not realize that he has
already seen through his pretending to be Lin Xiao. And here, he
actually dug a hole for himself. No matter what the reality is, he feels
that today is an extremely unlucky day.

"I ... I ... I know you are not Elder brother Lin Xiao." You XiaoMo's
face is completely red from the pressure.

Ling Xiao looks at his helpless expression. Appearing just like a lost
and adorably pitiful small white rabbit. He can't help but feel a little
delight. No sign of being shamed to anger.

After a while, You XiaoMo hears a voice coming from the top of his
head.

"Since you have seen through my disguise, I have no choice. Let's

see, how should I dispose of you? Should I kill you, or boil you, or fry
you?"

You XiaoMo immediately -_-||. Is there any difference between

these three choices?

"Whichever one is also not acceptable. I don't want to die." You

XiaoMo says in a small voice with a sad face. It hasn't even been ten
days since he came to this world. If he were to die yet again, who
knows if he will end up in hell or just vanish in puff of smoke. Too
terrifying!

"Then what should I do? After all, you know my secret." Ling Xiao
pretends to be in a difficult position while saying this.

You XiaoMo's eyelid twitches and he immediately raises his hand

105
swearing: "I promise you, I won't tell anyone about you pretending
to be Elder brother Lin. If I do, may heaven strike me dead and
shatter my soul, uh, forever doomed to remain a low level mage. Is
this good enough?" He cautiously asks the last question.

"You are a mage?" Ling Xiao raises his eyebrow. His handsome face
suddenly shows a hint of defiance. Just like his elitist and overbearing
expression before, not even a tiny hint of unease.

You XiaoMo nods and then looks at him expectantly.

"If that's the case, then go ahead and refine a magic pill for me." Ling
Xiao says indifferently.

"That, I didn't bring my cauldron......" You XiaoMo can't figure out

what he is planning, but seeing him raise his eyebrows, he
immediately adds, "But I have ready made ones. I have some in my
magic bag, the magic pills I refined yesterday."

"You mean this magic bag?" Ling Xiao raises his hand. Amazingly, in
his hand is a bag that doesn't seem to suit him. It's none other than
You XiaoMo's magic bag.

You XiaoMo reflexively feels the area around his waist. His magic bag
is not there. He can't help but be stunned. When did he take it? He
didn't even feel anything.

Ling Xiao takes out everything from the magic bag. There are only
four small bottles, emanating a light medicinal scent. You XiaoMo
sees him open one of the bottles and pour out a light blue
Accumulate energy magic pill, one of the low risk ones. Under You
XiaoMo's astonished gaze, he tosses the Accumulate energy magic
pill into his mouth. After chewing twice, Ling Xiao raises his brows

106
slightly. He then proceeds to pour out the remaining Accumulate
energy magic pills and swallow them into his belly. The same goes for
the other three bottles. Everything into his belly. As if he is eating
sugar roasted chestnuts.

You XiaoMo looks at him slack-jawed with bulging eyes. Didn't he

hear that magic pills can't be taken willy nilly .......

After eating all the magic pills, Ling Xiao licks his lips. He looks at You
XiaoMo with an added shred of satisfaction, "I really didn't expect
that the magic pills you refine are quite delicious. Especially two of
the bottles. The taste is not bad. So ______ congratulations, I have
decided not to kill you for the time being."

You XiaoMo hears this with an alarmed heart and jumpy body,
"Time... time being? Uh, no, I mean, really?"

"I can not kill you, but ______ " Ling Xiao throws the empty bottles
and magic bag back at him, revealing a smile, "Everyday from now
on, you must honor me with two hundred magic pills, specifically the
magic pills in the blue bottles."

The blue bottles are the ones that contain the magic pills with ten
percent risk.

"Two... two hundred magic pills?" You XiaoMo stammers. He is

dumbstruck by the amount.

With his current ability, he has no way of refining two hundred magic
pills in a day. Even if he were to put off eating and drinking,
especially since the magic pills he wants are the low risk ones.

"What's the matter? You want to refuse?"

107
Ling Xiao's brow twitches. In a flash, the space between You
XiaoMo's eyes feels a flash of piercingly cold pressure, almost making
him unable to breathe.

You XiaoMo quickly shakes his head. After the hard struggle to spare
his life, of course he is not going to refuse, "No, no, great warrior.
Elder brother Lin, I just learned how to refine magic pills a few days
ago. One hundred pills a day is my limit. Fur... furthermore,
according to the rules of TianXin sect, I have turn over half of the
magic pills ......."

Ling Xiao stares at him. According to Lin Xiao's memory, TianXin sect
does indeed have this rule. So he knows that You XiaoMo is not
trying to pull a fast one, "Fifty pills, of course, if you are not willing, I
don't mind turning you into a corpse right this moment."

But I mind! Of course You XiaoMo doesn't dare to revolt. No matter

how unfair the conditions, they still can't compare to his measly life.
So he can only agree. Just when he heaves a sigh of relief, Ling Xiao's
indifferent voice rings out again above his head.

"But, to ensure that you will not betray me, hand over half of your
soul ne!"

Note:
raise horse bit towards different routes - part ways
black line - '-_-||'

108
Chapter 27 - The truth beneath the
gentleness
Tonight is the night that You XiaoMo has the most restless sleep
ever since he came to this world.

The next day, he is forced by Ling Xiao's despotic attitude to follow

him to the assembly point. Because he is terrified by those last words
he said yesterday, he doesn't dare to resist. Only when he appears in
front of everyone with Ling Xiao does he realize what he's in for.

He who had always been insignificant and transparent is now the

center of everyone's attention. The first to react is the Junior sister
Tang YunQi, rushing up to Ling Xiao. After giving You XiaoMo a look
of disdain, she says to Ling Xiao, "Elder brother, did you finish what
you had to do?"

Ling Xiao nods indifferently. This time he is not acting. This Junior
sister just doesn't give him a good feeling. But Lin Xiao has always
treated the Junior sister in this way, so no one feels that something is
amiss.

On the other hand, You XiaoMo wipes the sweat off his brow. But
before he could slip away, Tang YunQi aims a spearhead at him.

"Elder brother, why are you with this person?"

Tang YunQi wraps herself around Ling Xiao's arm, her elegant
eyebrows raised, looking at You XiaoMo with disdain upon disdain.

Ling Xiao calmly extricates his arm, curving up the corners of his
mouth in a slight smile, "Is it a problem that I came here with him?"

109
A smile that makes people think of the spring breeze blooms on the
handsome face that does not belong to him. But it gives off a feeling
of perfection, as if this person should always be smiling. But, only
You XiaoMo knows that this is all an act. He personally experienced
yesterday how this man can switch faces, flipping back and forth, just
like someone with multiple personalities.

The smile on Tang YunQi's pretty face disappears. Her pupils enlarge
slightly as if she can't believe that Elder brother is speaking to her in
this way.

Mo Gu also sees that the Ling Xiao today is not quite the same as the
one from yesterday, but he doesn't suspect that he is not the real
thing. Although he is surprised that he would be together with a
nobody from Earth peak, he doesn't think much of it.

"Since everyone is here, let's go!"

Saying this, Mo Gu leads the disciples towards the winged-bird

square.

You XiaoMo plans to slip away secretly to join the Earth peak
disciples but who knew that just when he turns around, he is almost
strangled by a strong pull on his collar. Turning around, he is met
with Ling Xiao's 'gentle' look.

"Little brother, where do you think you're going?"

You XiaoMo shrinks, saying spinelessly: "Nowhere, I'm not going

anywhere."

Ling Xiao seems to be very pleased with his spineless reaction,

110
releasing him and telling him to keep up before walking ahead.

As for Tang YunQi, looking at his receding back, she suddenly turns
around and gives You XiaoMo a ferocious stare before chasing up to
Ling Xiao.

You XiaoMo hangs down his head, resigning himself to his fate. He
feels that this trip down the mountain is really filled with bad luck,
actually attracting such an unbelievable mountain of trouble. Not
only that, he is now hated by Junior sister. His peaceful existence
that only lasted a few days is now officially over.

Upon reaching the winged-bird square, You XiaoMo receives another

hateful glare from Tang YunQi. This time, her fury is even more
obvious. That's because Ling Xiao wants to sit on the same winged-
bird as him. Even though he says it indifferently, he gives the
impression that it is non-negotiable.

As a result, those glaring at him is not just Tang YunQi. Several

Heaven peak disciples are also looking at him unpleasantly. Especially
the one that was told to sit with the Earth peak disciples, his face
bright red from suppressed anger.

"Little brother XiaoMo, come sit over here."

Ling Xiao pats the spot by his side, speaking to the dawdling You
XiaoMo.

As soon he says those words, everyone's gaze locks onto You

XiaoMo. There is jealously, there is anger, and there is even
admiration. But the most obvious one is the furious glare from Tang
YunQi. Finally unable to take it any longer, she states, "Elder brother,
that is my spot."

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"Is that so!" Ling Xiao seems to think it over before saying, "Then I'm
fine with the back seat."

Saying this, he gets up and walks over to You XiaoMo and plonks
down next to him. Completely disregarding everyones stares,
including the aggrieved Tang YunQi who looks as if she is about to
cry.

The one with the most seniority, Mo Gu, takes it all in but doesn't say
anything. What can he say? One is the daughter of the Grand Master,
the other is the Elder disciple that the Grand Master places high
hopes on. This old man can't interfere with the affairs of the younger
generation. Furthermore, he roughly understands Lin Xiao's
character. If Lin Xiao really likes YunQi, he would not have always
treated her indifferently.

In the end, Tang YunQi is unable to change Ling Xiao's decision. Even
though she had defended her position, she was still pushed away by
Elder brother. Even though he acts differently, for now the face is
still the same.

The winged-bird takes off, spreading out its beautiful wings on both
sides. In an instant they are soaring up to the sky, Tang YunQi's
resentful whimpers replaced by the whistling wind rushing by their
ears.

Because the speed of the winged-birds is very fast, usually no one

would speak at this time. You XiaoMo also thinks so but suddenly a
teasing voice tinged with evil reaches his ear.

"You see, Little brother. Now everyone is envious of you."

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*Boom*, You XiaoMo feels something explode in his head. He
reflexively turns around and comes face to face with a pair of cold
mocking eyes. But he doesn't fail to detect the flash of mischief in
those eyes that leave him reeling in shock. He stares at him, eyes
bulging, this... this is intentional? If he had not said those words, he
would not have known that it is indeed intentional.

When they reach TianXin sect, You XiaoMo still hasn't made any
sense of the situation. But throughout the whole journey, the way
Ling Xiao treats him could not be any better.

At the fork, Mo Gu wanted to ask Ling Xiao if he wants to go with

them to Heaven peak. Instead, Ling Xiao lets them go ahead since he
wants to go together with You XiaoMo. With Tang YunQi looking
back at them resentfully every now and then, You XiaoMo is
forcefully escorted by Ling Xiao back to Earth peak. On the way, the
other four disciples dare not speak, frequently stealing glances at
Ling Xiao. In their hearts, they are probably thinking the same thing
as the Heaven peak disciples. Why is it that in one day the
relationship between You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao has become so
close?

Upon reaching Earth peak, Ling Xiao follows You XiaoMo to his room.
Luckily it is the time for morning classes, so they don't come across
anyone on the way.

You XiaoMo pushes open the door and walks in. Ling Xiao stands at
the doorway and evaluates his room, saying: "How shabby na!"

You XiaoMo glances back at him and stammers: "All of Earth peak
rooms are like this. If you... you are not used to this, you can go back
to your own room."

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The last part was said very softly but Ling Xiao hears everything. His
lips start to curve upwards as he laughs, "Little brother XiaoMo,
would it be better if I move in with you?"

You XiaoMo immediately looks at him in horror. You've got to be

kidding!

His expression fills Ling Xiao with delight making him roar with
laughter.

You XiaoMo blushes instantly, realizing that he was tricked.

In the end, Ling Xiao doesn't stay. It seems as if he was only

surveying the lay of the land. Before long, a Junior brother comes
over to fetch him, saying that he was sent over because the Grand
Master is looking for him regarding something urgent. They soon
leave.

Once they leave, You XiaoMo climbs weakly on to the bed. Wiping
the sweat off his brow, he feels that today's experience really shook
him to the core!

Notes:
someone whose name is not in the classics - nobody
alarm heart move soul - terrifying

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Chapter 28 - Heartfelt wish
Tang Fan, the Grand Master of TianXin sect has held this post for
almost a hundred years. Under his leadership, TianXin sect is
becoming more and more like a first class sect. Now it is regarded as
the one most likely to become the leading sect in Long Xiao
continent. Someone with this level of skill is surely not a simple man.
In Lin Xiao's memory, even though Tang Fan is his Master, he is still a
mystery. Even though Lin Xiao is his cherished Elder disciple, he still
doesn't know what level of strength Tang Fan has. That's why most
people have the impression that Tang Fan is like a fox, a wily old fox,
enigmatic and impossible to predict.

Because he is afraid of Tang Fan, Lin Xiao has never dared to expose
the tiniest bit of weakness in front of him. But most importantly,
because TianXin sect is a first class sect of Long Xiao continent, its
true strength is not something that is easily revealed. It's a pity that
even someone like Lin Xiao is unable to find out the true strength of
TianXin sect.

That Tang Fan will summon him now is something Ling Xiao
expected. Putting aside the huge change in his temperament,
suddenly associating with a nobody from Earth peak, just Tang YunQi
running back complaining in tears is probably enough of a reason. In
Lin Xiao's memory, Tang Fan is a doting father. Anything Tang YunQi
wishes, as long as it is within acceptable limits, Tang Fan will surely
help her achieve it. So, this time, Tang YunQi feeling slighted in front
of everyone would definitely run crying to Tang Fan.

"Elder brother, Grand Master is waiting for you inside."

The Junior brother that brought him here leaves him outside the

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Assembly Hall. Ling Xiao looks over the grand exterior of the
Assembly Hall. The plaque carrying the name is said to have been put
up personally by Tang Fan. Appearing gentle on the surface, each
stroke is actually incisive, with a cutting edge. It's just that it is deeply
hidden.

Pushing open the door and walking in, the vast Assembly Hall
although not particularly sumptuous is extremely imposing. Two
exquisitely carved chairs sit facing the entrance. On one of them sits
a middle-aged man that appears to be about forty.

The middle-aged man has kind brows and pleasant eyes. Upon
seeing Ling Xiao, he reveals an amiable smile, "Lin Xiao, you're here.
Come over to Master."

Ling Xiao walks over expressionless, his lips slightly curving,

"Master."

This greeting of Master is actually too high a praise for Tang Fan.
According to his qualifications, Tang Fan is simply not worthy to be
his Master. In fact, if you turn it around, Tang Fan is not even worthy
of being his disciple. It's only that he is now playing the part of Lin
Xiao, so he can only give Tang Fan this undeserved respect.

"Xiao son, it has been a long time since we master and disciple have
had a heart to heart talk. Now that we have this rare time when we
are both unoccupied, come sit. Let's have a talk." Tang Fan beams
while looking at him.

Ling Xiao is not the tiniest bit reserved, taking the first seat below
Tang Fan, "Master is right, we have not really talked for almost two
years."

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Tang Fan strokes his beard while nodding in satisfaction, "Xiao son,
do you remember, the first time we talked, the time and the place?"

"Not many are able to enter Master's room. I still remember, the first
time you looked for me was in the middle of the night. Such a
distinctive move, only the honorable you is capable of that."

A light smile appears on Ling Xiao's expressionless face, as if recalling

something from memory, showing no chink in his armor.

"People age, the ability to remember is also reduced greatly ah."

Tang Fan sighs.

They continued with some small talk, mostly reminiscing. Finally

Tang Fan brings up his darling daughter. Tang YunQi is really a spoilt
princess. But everyone can see that Lin Xiao has always treated Tang
YunQi coolly. This, even Tang Fan can see clearly. And because he
can see it clearly, Tang Fan is not worried. Tang Fan is well aware of
how unreasonable his darling daughter can be. That's why he doesn't
ask Ling Xiao to let her have her way. He only asks that he
occasionally gives in to her so that there wouldn't be too much
trouble. After all, she is a young girl, and one that loves to save face,
especially in front of the other disciples. After talking for almost two
hours, Tang Fan finally lets him leave.

Pretending to be Lin Xiao, Ling Xiao's performance can be said to be

very relaxed, not in the least bit troubled.

Leaving the Assembly Hall, Ling Xiao leisurely strolls down the long
passageways. The smile on his lips getting broader and broader.
What a wily old fox ah. Nine out of ten sentences stuck to events
from the past. If he had not absorbed Lin Xiao's memory, he would
have been made.

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Lin Xiao is a cold man, bordering on being heartless. But his
popularity in TianXin sect is so good that it's quite unimaginable.
Normal people would not be able to comprehend, but Ling Xiao who
has absorbed his memories understands his motives all too clearly. In
order to win over the hearts of others, he would frequently
'unwittingly' grant favors for the disciples by his side. Because most
of the time these unwitting actions, for those that are in a difficult
spot, will seem like receiving coal in a snowstorm. More often than
not, those people will remember that he is someone that has been
good to them. Lin Xiao makes use of this point. That's why a lot of
TianXin sect disciples feel indebted to him and worship him. The cold
and expressionless Elder brother, under that indifferent exterior
hides a warm heart. It's as if all the disciples also think this way.

But _______ except for a few trusted subordinates, no one knows

that there is a motive behind these actions. Truthfully speaking, Ling
Xiao only absorbed his memories because it was convenient. He
never expected that Lin Xiao is actually hiding such a huge secret.
Ambition ah, that's a really good thing!

So Ling Xiao resolves that since he is replacing him, he would help

him fulfill that teeny tiny heartfelt wish!

"Elder brother, you've finally returned." A young man turns around.

Upon seeing him, the young man is delighted, running over without
stopping to take a breath, whispering softly, "Did you find that
thing?"

Ling Xiao is all smiles, "Zhou Peng ah, since I Elder brother handled it
myself, of course it was easy as reaching out my hand."

He knows what Zhou Peng is referring to. It's also because of that

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thing that Lin Xiao came across him, and so lost his life.

Zhou Peng is stunned for a moment. This is the first time he sees
Elder brother with such a gentle smile.
.......

You XiaoMo had planned to go back to the dimension when he

returned to TianXin sect, to sprinkle the level one and level two
seeds on the ground. But after the unexpected event, he does not
dare to. Who knows when someone would come over suddenly to
look for him.

After spending the whole morning reading in his room, he finally

guesses that Ling Xiao won't be coming over at this time. You XiaoMo
looks down at his flattened stomach and decides to go have lunch at
the canteen. Even if the heavens are going to collapse it will still have
to wait until he has finished his lunch. Of course these bold words
are only said when Ling Xiao is not around.

What's special about today? It seems that there are more people
than usual in the canteen. You XiaoMo doesn't really care. He is only
worried that all the dishes would run out so he hurries inside. He's
not sure if it is his imagination but the people coming and going,
including those already seated seem to be giving him strange looks.
Most of them are scrutinizing him and sizing him up and as if puzzled,
they occasionally whisper to each other.

You XiaoMo doesn't realize that he is already very famous. After

receiving food from the cook, he looks all around and sees that there
are no empty seats. Just as he is hesitating, a voice suddenly calls out
to him from a table near his right side: "Little brother, over here!"

You XiaoMo turns around to look. It's actually Elder brother Fang

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ChenLe. There just happens to be an empty spot by his side. So
without hesitation, You XiaoMo walks straight over holding his food
tray.

Having not seen each other for about two days, Fang ChenLe is just
as familiar as before, actually helping him to pull out a chair on his
own accord. You XiaoMo thanks him politely and sits down.

Fang ChenLe looks at the food on his tray and says with a smile:
"Little brother, do you eat this little for every meal?"

You XiaoMo nods, "This is enough, I'm not used to eating too much."

Fang ChenLe laughs out loud. This is the first time he hears someone
saying they are not used to eating too much. As far as he knows,
eating is a human instinct. But he is the only one laughing. The other
disciples at the table can't help but look at each other in dismay.
Finally one of them can't hold back any longer.

"Junior brother, we hear that you have a good relationship with the
rising star from the Warrior division, Lin Xiao. This morning, you even
came back together with him. Is it true?"

You XiaoMo looks up in surprise and sees that everyone who heard
those words are now looking intently at him. He finally understands
why people were looking at him in that way when he came in earlier.
Looks like the matter from this morning has gotten around. It's
obvious who spread the news. Other than the disciples that were
with him this morning, no one else could have spread the story
around Earth peak this quickly.

Looking at the burning stares from everyone, You XiaoMo laughs in

embarrassment, "Actually, it's a misunderstanding."

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"How can it be a misunderstanding ne? A lot of people witnessed it."
That disciple frowns thinking that You XiaoMo is trying to hide the
truth.

"It's really a misunderstanding ......."

You XiaoMo pouts uncomfortably, feeling uneasy being the target of

their stares. Other than a misunderstanding, what else can he say?
He definitely can't say it's because he discovered Ling Xiao's secret so
he is now being threatened by him. If he didn't experience this
personally, he wouldn't believe it either.

"Alright, don't badger Little brother any more. He said it's a

misunderstanding so it's a misunderstanding. After all, the canteen is
a place for meals, not a place to talk nonsense."

Fang ChenLe speaks out to rescue You XiaoMo from his difficult
position. He is probably the only one in the whole canteen that is not
curious about the relationship between You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao.

After the rest leave, You XiaoMo quietly thanks Fang ChenLe. The
latter only replies warmly that he is welcome. Ah, now this is the
image of an Elder brother that fits what You XiaoMo has in his heart!
With tears flowing, he thinks, what of Ling Xiao? That one is truly not
a fitting Elder brother!

Notes:
name not mentioned in the classics - nobody

121
Chapter 29 - The most difficult magic pill.

In the afternoon, You XiaoMo doesn't go to the Hall of Enchanted

Herbs to refine magic pills. The other day, he had asked for two days
of leave. Furthermore, he no longer has to report to the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs everyday. Those few days they went to the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs was because they had just entered TianXin sect, so
there were a lot of things that they didn't understand. That's why
Elder brother Fang brought them there. Now that they have all
learned how to refine magic pills, as long as they have a cauldron,
they can refine anywhere they want. But You XiaoMo still goes to the
Hall of Enchanted Herbs to collect three hundred stalks of level one
magic herbs. He feels that from this day on, his life will be like
walking on a long arduous road.

What he doesn't know is that a few of Earth peak disciples are lying
in wait for him in the stone room to question him further. Just like
this he somehow manages to avoid it all.

Back in the room, You XiaoMo closes the door and windows tightly
before entering the dimension.

In the dimension lie all the things he prepared yesterday. After

encountering Ling Xiao, he had not dared to come back for fear of
being discovered.

From the cupboard, he takes out the level one magic herb seeds that
were gifted by Orchid pavilion. You XiaoMo takes the ones he is
familiar with and scatters them on the ground. After using up about
one third of the land, he stores the remainder. Then he takes out a
few packets of the level two magic herb seeds. Regarding level two

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magic herbs, You XiaoMo had asked Elder brother Fang ChenLe
about them before. The level two magic herbs in Earth peak's
medicine garden are mostly the common ones. In the future, if he
were to ascend to be a level two mage, he can go the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs to get his share of level two magic herbs. That is to
say that he can get whichever magic herbs he wants as long as he is
able to produce the magic pills. That's why he only takes out eight
packets of level two magic herb seeds. He plans to first try it out with
the ingredients for two types of magic pills. The rest he would wait to
see how it goes.

He scatters half of each of the eight packets. As a result from two

thirds of the remaining land, he is now left with one fifth of unused
land. This remaining one fifth You XiaoMo intends to grow level
three magic herbs. Since he is now only a level one mage, he has no
need for level three magic herbs. So he decides that he will only
plant a little and prioritize the level two magic herbs. When he has
free time, he would do more weeding and prepare more land.

After sprinkling the seeds, You XiaoMo takes out a medium wooden
bucket and a ladle from the cupboard. He bought these from the
wooden furnishings shop. Because he had considered that the seeds
would have to be watered, he had asked the manager to find him a
bucket and a ladle.

The water in the lake is as clear as before. So clear that the bottom
of the lake is visible. No matter what You XiaoMo does to the water,
it is as if there is a filter installed in the lake. Not long later, the
impurities will automatically disappear and the water will regain its
original appearance. You XiaoMo has wondered about this before.
He even went as far as to wash his dirty clothes in the water but the
result is still the same as mentioned above. The dirt will sink to the
bottom and after not very long they will disappear without a trace,

123
as if they had disintegrated. Because he doesn't see any harmful
effects, You XiaoMo just forgets about it after some thought.

He fills the wooden bucket to the brim and brings it back to the field.
He then proceeds to water the field one ladle at a time. He finishes
watering everything after using up eleven buckets of water. Looking
at the moist ground, You XiaoMo smiles in satisfaction. This is the
result of two hours of his hard work. Wiping the sweat off his brow,
You XiaoMo puts down the bucket and ladle before turning around
to leave the dimension.

Just when he turns his back, the area behind him that was sprinkled
with level one magic herb seeds is suddenly covered with sprouts.
Tender and green. Vigorous and fresh. Even swaying strangely as if
sitting in shallow stagnant water......

You XiaoMo who had already left is completely unaware of all that.
He is preparing to practice another type of level one magic pill. That
magic pill is called Spiritual energy pill. It is the most difficult level
one magic pill to refine. It is made up of three types of magic herbs,
seven petal flower, fragrant fruit, and dried leaf herb. The reason
why it is the most difficult is because its main purpose is to produce
spiritual energy. Not the same as the Accumulate energy magic pill.

Accumulate energy pill works by concentrating the spiritual energy

from the surroundings into the body of the martial artist. So when
using the Accumulate energy pill, one must find an area that has a
relatively high level of spiritual energy. On the other hand, the
Spiritual energy magic pill is like a reserve. The magic pill is filled with
pure spiritual energy. This spiritual energy comes from the seven
petal flower, fragrant fruit, dried leaf herb as well as the surrounding
spiritual energy that is present when the magic pill is refined. So the
Spiritual energy pill is a test of a mage's skill. The purer the

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surrounding spiritual energy, the better. More impurities means the
spiritual energy will not be pure.

Normal magic herbs, because of differences during cultivation will

contain some defects. Even high grade magic herbs will contain a
certain amount of impurities. So during the distillation process the
mage must increase the number of rounds. If not, the spiritual
energy in the Spiritual energy magic pill will not be pure, decreasing
its value significantly.

There is a reason why You XiaoMo chooses the Spiritual energy

magic pill. Ever since he was harassed by Ling Xiao yesterday, he has
been worrying over one thing. He had originally planned to rely on
refining magic pills to earn money to buy magic herb seeds. But if he
has to turn over fifty magic pills to Ling Xiao everyday, he simply will
be left with nothing to sell. This means that this way of livelihood is
over. In order to keep this mode of income alive, he scoured through
the ancient books and found the Spiritual energy magic pill.

The Spiritual energy magic pill is the most difficult level one magic
pill. Because of that, its price is more than double that of other level
one magic pills. Especially the ones with purer spiritual energy. The
price of this type of magic pill can only be high.

Before he starts out, You XiaoMo calculates it out. For each stalk of
magic herb, he can distill them three to four times. This is calculated
based on his soul force. When his soul force is full, he can distill each
magic herb four times. But later on it won't be possible. Three times
would already be considered a lot. This could be related to the
resilience of his soul.

Taking all this into account, You XiaoMo divides out the magic herbs
on the table. Other than the ingredients for the Spiritual energy

125
magic pill, there are also that for the Accumulate energy magic pill.
The flower of the seven petal flower has seven petals, hence its
name. You XiaoMo plucks the seven petal flower and throws it into
the cauldron. Then he takes the fragrant fruit that is as big as his
finger and the stalk of the dried leaf herb and throw them all into the
cauldron before starting. Like before, he divides his soul force into
three parts and like little streams, fly into the cauldron. Then he
envelops the three types of magic herbs. Because his current
condition is optimal, he easily distills the three types of magic herbs
four times.

Just when he wants to stretch his hand into the cauldron, something
crosses his mind. He shifts his line of vision into the three small
holes. For some reason, You XiaoMo intuitively feels that he can do
it. He can distill the magic herbs for the fifth time. This is a baseless
gut feeling, kind of like a sixth sense. He takes a deep breath and
decides to follow his heart. He then proceeds to manipulate his soul
force into the little holes.......

Quietly, the sun that was hanging high in the sky falls below the
western horizon. When Ling Xiao opens the door, he sees a figure
with its back facing him falling backwards. As if reflexively he rushes
over to catch the figure. When he looks down, he sees a rather pale-
faced You XiaoMo. There is a layer of sweat on his forehead. As if
having lost half his life, his weak body falls into Ling Xiao's arms. In
his hand, he holds a magic pill?

Notes:
seven petal flower - Paris Polyphylla
fragrant fruit - Malus Asiatica Nakai

126
Chapter 30 - I ate it.

You XiaoMo feels someone supporting him. He only manages to

catch a glimpse of Ling Xiao before losing consciousness.

Soul force overuse? One look and Ling Xiao can see that there is a
problem with You XiaoMo's condition. He frowns. He is not that well
versed with mages and their practices. But he knows that usually a
mage is able to tell how much soul force he has left when refining
magic pills. So, most mages, when they feel their soul force running
low, they would stop refining magic pills and take the appropriate
amount of rest before starting again. If not, they could incur some
sort of aftereffect. Such as exhausting their soul force and being
unable to recover for some time. Or being extremely fatigued,
unable to move for a few days, and things like that.

And here, You XiaoMo actually overuses his soul force while refining
magic pills. Ling Xiao doesn't get it. Yet he still lifts him up.
Unexpectedly, this young boy is lighter than he imagined. After
placing him on the bed, Ling Xiao's eyes fall on the magic pill firmly
grasped in his hand. Is this that magic pill?

Ling Xiao pries open his fingers one by one and takes the magic pill.
It's only a level one magic pill. Looks pretty common. The spiritual
energy it contains still cannot compare to the place where he used to
live.

But ------- this level one magic pill is quite different from the one he
ate yesterday. It's as if the energy contained inside is even more
pure, even more concentrated. Most importantly the impurities is
much less compared to the ones from yesterday. This point amazes

127
him. Looks like this convenient Little brother can really give him such
a pleasant surprise ne!

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes, conveniently tossing the magic pill into
his mouth. After a few chews, he then swallows it straight into his
stomach. Just like that, the magic pill that You XiaoMo risked his life
for, overusing his soul force, is simply eaten and gone!

Taking a deep breath, Ling Xiao feels that this is the best magic pill he
has ever eaten. Although the amount of energy contained in the
magic pill is not much, but it is especially pure. Spreading out from
his throat through his four limbs, it has been a long time since he
experienced this weightless feeling throughout his whole body.

After finishing the magic pill, Ling Xiao walks towards the wooden
table. Three bottles and bits of magic herbs are scattered on the
simple and crude wooden table. Each bottle holds several magic pills.
In a sweeping glance he sees that they hold from ten to fifty magic
pills. After tasting each one, he can't help but raise his brows. They
all taste different. Furthermore, none of them are as good as the one
he just ate.

A vague expression flashes across his face. He then switches his

attention to You XiaoMo who is still passed out on the bed.

A thin and weak body. A slender neck. He only needs to exert a little
force to make him disappear from this world. But this young boy, so
weak that he is almost not worth mentioning, can actually refine
magic pills that perfectly suits his taste. This phenomenon has not
happened before, not even with many high level mages. One can't
deny that his interest in him is getting stronger and stronger.

"Considering your contribution in the matter of refining magic pills,

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I'll give you a helping hand."

Ling Xiao bends over. From the back, it looks as if his whole body is
pressed onto You XiaoMo. He grips his lower jaw with one hand and
gives him a breath of air. That breath of air seems to have a magical
effect. You XiaoMo's eyes that were originally tightly shut suddenly
start to move. After ten breaths the eyes slowly open. What fills his
field of vision is a magnified face. Although it is a very handsome
face, he jumps up in fright.

A shudder run through his whole body. He tries hard to bury his head
under his pillow, "You you you ....... what do you want?"

Seeing him in such a frightened state, Ling Xiao's lips curve up

suddenly, "You fainted, so I gave you a breath."

"Gave me a breath?" You XiaoMo suddenly raises his voice, his eyes
bulging in disbelief. He then covers his own lips, like someone who
had just been taken advantage of, looking at the gleeful Ling Xiao.

"What kind of reaction is this?" asks Ling Xiao.

You XiaoMo lowers his eyes and says resentfully: "No ... nothing."

Liar, Ling Xiao can obviously read the 'You're bullying me' accusation
on his face, "Little brother, good children don't tell lies."

I am not a child!

You XiaoMo pouts and asks after some hesitation, "Elder brother Lin,
you ... how did you give me, uh, give me a breath?"

After saying this, before Ling Xiao could explain, he already starts to

129
blush. He really doesn't want have crooked thoughts, but those
words really makes one think that way.

Ling Xiao stares at his face, causing You XiaoMo to get redder and
redder, almost to the point of hyperemia. Only then do his lips start
to curve upwards slightly, saying softly, "Of course it's mouth to
mouth ah!"

As if being struck by lightning under a clear sky, You XiaoMo is

dumbstruck. Inside his head, those three words 'mouth to mouth'
reverberate. *wu wu* His first kiss is gone just like that. What's
more, it's with a man!

Ling Xiao gets more and more intrigued by his expression. This is the
first time he has seen someone with so much expression on his face.

Even though he finds it very amusing, Ling Xiao doesn't forget to get
to the important matter, resuming, "Little brother, did your brothers
not tell you about the dangers of overusing your soul force?"

"Ah?" You XiaoMo looks up both resentful and flustered, just lacking
two streams of tears down his face.

Ling Xiao straightens his body and sits down by his side, explaining,
"The reason why you fainted just now is because you overused your
soul force. Don't tell me you don't realize that oh."

Hearing those words, You XiaoMo jumps up and cries in alarm,

"That's right, my magic pill."

Saying this, he jumps from the bed and rushes over to find the magic
pill. Ling Xiao didn't touch the few bottles of magic pills on the table.
Although he did take one each but You XiaoMo doesn't notice

130
because the one he is looking for is not one of those. He's searching
for the very last magic pill that he refined. But no matter how hard
he tries, he doesn't find it.

You XiaoMo thinks back. He remembers that before he fell back, that
magic pill seemed ... seemed to be firmly grasped in his hand? As if
from a psychic connection, You XiaoMo turns around and
immediately crashes into those smiling eyes of Ling Xiao, tinged with
mischief and hidden meaning.

This type of expression is the one that You XiaoMo loathes the most.
Because during that night in He Ping town, that was the exact
expression Ling Xiao had when he finished off several bottles of
magic pills.

Seeing him look at him, especially that look of suspicion, Ling Xiao
laughs and says wickedly: "If you are looking for that magic pill, I'm
sorry to say, I ate it." Saying this, he licks his lower lip, as if savoring
the aftertaste!

You XiaoMo warns himself, I must endure!

Notes:
magical rhinoceros horn - psychic connection

131
Chapter 31 - Alchemical technique

Although he is very angry that Ling Xiao ate his magic pill, it only lasts
for a little while. Since he managed to refine that magic pill, he can
just refine another one. What is regrettable is that he didn't manage
to see how it is different from the others.

Today, for the whole afternoon, You XiaoMo refines all the the three
hundred stalks of magic herbs he got from the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs. He did not waste a single minute. His speed is significantly
faster than before. An important factor to this success is his
proficiency gained from experience. But the most important factor is
that for fifty of them, he only distilled them once.

Before, it took him the time to brew half a cup of tea to refine one
magic pill. Now, he can refine two level one magic pills in that time.
So he can refine fifty magic pills in under two hours. Because of this
huge decrease in time, he can use the remaining time to experiment
on the magic pill that Ling Xiao ate.

That magic pill was distilled five times, the most he has ever done up
till now. Usually, the most is not more than four times. But when he
distilled five times, it was as if he used up all his soul force, only
succeeding through sheer willpower. It's too bad that Ling Xiao ate it
up before he could figure out how much the risk was reduced. So he
can only console himself that it was only a level one magic pill. He
can just find some time later to refine another one.

"Little brother."

Just when he is immersed in his thoughts, Ling Xiao suddenly calls

132
him. You XiaoMo's reaction is rather slow. He only realizes a moment
later that Ling Xiao is calling him. He raises his head and looks at him
with suspicious eyes.

Ling Xiao thinks that Little brother is finally angry. But just when he is
about to mock him, unexpectedly the resentful look on his face
disappears after only a moment. It seems his ability to get right back
up again is quite high. Really too amusing!

"Little brother. Next time don't overuse your soul force again." Ling
Xiao suddenly says in all seriousness.

"Why?" You XiaoMo asks without thinking.

"Because it is harmful to your soul. Overusing your soul force is equal

to overusing your soul capacity. Furthermore, the soul is the essence
of a person. No matter if it is an ordinary person or a mystic, when
the soul is no more, you will disappear from this world. But for
mages, this is even more critical." says Ling Xiao.

"Why?" You XiaoMo dumbly asks again. He really never gave much
thought to this issue.

It may be recorded in the library, but there is a limit to how much

content he can read. Regarding the soul force and the soul, he
definitely did not come across anything on the first floor.

"The soul force of a mage is not the same as the souls of martial
artists. Your brothers should have told you that only mages have a
soul force. So, if there is no soul force, then you lose the ability to
refine magic pills. When you overuse your soul force, you indirectly
damage your soul. Understand?"

133
Saying this, he raps You XiaoMo on the head and winks. It seems as if
his serious demeanor a moment ago is just a facade.

You XiaoMo blinks in pain while holding his head. He thinks to

himself that he must not admit that he is not quite used to the
serious Ling Xiao. If he does, wouldn't that mean that he is a
masochist? Only a fool would admit to such a shameful thing.

Ling Xiao beams saying: "But ....... the last pill you refined, the taste is
really not bad oh."

You XiaoMo's scalp starts to tingle. He suddenly gets a bad

premonition.

Sure enough, he hears him say: "I've decided. I've decided to change
from fifty magic pills to twenty. Plus one of that magic pill. I only
want one. How about it? Elder brother is really good to you right?"

Good your head! You XiaoMo curses silently.

"Elder brother. Didn't you just tell me that I shouldn't rashly overuse
my soul force?" You XiaoMo raises his head and looks at him
innocently.

Ling Xiao raises his elegant brows, "With your current soul force,
don't tell me you can't even refine one?"

You XiaoMo scratches his head, "Right now it's not possible. The
amount of soul force needed to distill the magic herbs five times is
more than I expected. Before I refined that magic pill, my soul force
was very full but it was still not enough."

In actual fact, his body felt a little weak after he finished refining

134
ninety nine magic pills. So he drank some lake water from his
dimension. He didn't expect that the lake water would be so magical.
Not only did it restore his spirit and remove his fatigue, it also fully
replenished his soul force. Really exceeding his expectations.

What was he thinking at that time? When he was distilling the magic
herbs, he suddenly wondered if he could do it five times. And just
like that, he went ahead with it. How could he have known that the
fifth time is more difficult than the fourth time by two to three times.
Therefore, he consumed two thirds of his soul force all at once. Not
wanting to give up halfway, You XiaoMo used the little that's left of
his remaining soul force to complete the five steps of the blending
stage.

"So it seems the most important thing right now is to increase your
soul force."

Seeing that his plan is not going to succeed, his expression is a little
unsightly. His tone is tinged with frustration. This is not the first time
this young man has refused him. And yet he is showing such a
clueless expression.

You XiaoMo doesn't notice it, crying out *ah*, "The soul force can be
increased?"

Ling Xiao raises his brows again, "How can it be that your brothers
have not told you about it?"

You XiaoMo thinks back. They really did not. But then it's probably
not Elder brother Fang's fault. They had just entered the sect for a
few days so the most important question was if they could refine
magic pills. Knowledge on the soul force is probably something that
they did not need at that stage.

135
Ling Xiao, on the hand, doesn't think that way. He feels that Fang
ChenLe has failed in his duty. He then explains: "There are two ways
to increase the soul force. The first one is through practice. With
continuous practice, the soul force can be increased. But this method
is rather slow. Changes will only be noticeable after a long time. Of
course, you can compare yourself with your brothers. If you can
refine more magic pills than them at one go, it means that your soul
force is more than theirs."

This is the first time Ling Xiao has spoken so long with someone who
he just met for a day.

You XiaoMo, on the other hand, is listening with rapt attention,

asking: "Then the second method ne?"

Ling Xiao shoots him an indifferent glance, "The second method is by

alchemical meditation. It's more useful than you practicing from
morning to night."

You XiaoMo's eyes start to gleam, asking hurriedly: "Really? That

alchemical meditation ......"

Ling Xiao's lips start to curve upwards, revealing an expression that

You XiaoMo is very familiar with. It frightens him so much that his
delighted expression vanishes instantly. But this frightened
expression brings Ling Xiao much delight, vastly improving his mood,
"Little brother, do you think that these alchemical techniques to train
the soul force is something easily obtainable?"

"If not?" You XiaoMo asks in return in a small voice. Just like a little
kitten that was frightened into retracting its claws, except that he
never had any claws to begin with.

136
Ling Xiao beams saying: "Alchemical techniques to train the soul
force is something that not even all high level mages have."

You XiaoMo ventures: "Can it be that alchemical techniques for the

soul force is very rare?"

"Not only is it rare, the whole Long Xiao continent probably has less
then ten volumes. As far as I know, even a large sect such as TianXin
sect only has one volume. Furthermore, it is kept as a top secret.
Other than the inner circle, they won't easily reveal it to the other
disciples."

Of course, all these come from Lin Xiao's memory. As for he himself,
he has always not bothered with affairs of Long Xiao continent.
Spending most his time in deep sleep, so it is not surprising that he
doesn't know.

"Inner circle ah......" You XiaoMo hangs down in head in

disappointment. He is only a probationary disciple so there is no
reason even for wild hopes.

Seeing his crestfallen appearance, Ling Xiao feels inexplicably

uncomfortable, blurting out: "Actually, it's not impossible." He
regrets saying that immediately, because .......

You XiaoMo recovers instantly like dying cinders that start to glow
again, looking at expectantly. This kind of look will drive someone to
their death. Like an extremely adorable little kitten. Twin pair of big
black eyes like embedded gems, glistening at him, making his heart
itch.

Ling Xiao fakes a cough, saying: "Looking at your situation, it is

137
unlikely that TianXin sect will pass on that alchemical technique to
you. But ....... "

You XiaoMo nods his head in agreement, "But what?"

"But I have a way of getting it."

"Really?" You XiaoMo is immediately delighted. But after a moment

of delight, he suddenly thinks of a problem, saying in shock, "Don't
tell me you're thinking of stealing TianXin sect's alchemical
technique?"

Right after saying this, his head is again rapped by Ling Xiao, "What
are you saying? Do I look like someone that will pose as a dog to
steal chickens?"

You XiaoMo really wants to say yes, but after considering the
consequences, he unwillingly shakes his head and says, "No."

This word lets the great Ling Xiao feel very pleased. As for whether
he is someone who would pose as a dog to steal chickens, this is
probably something that only he himself knows.

138
Chapter 32 - Earth peak disciple

Of course Ling Xiao can't go and steal TianXin sect's alchemical

technique for training the soul force. That volume of alchemical
technique is kept on the highest level of the East pavilion. Guarded
by Elders of TianXin sect that have retired to work behind the scenes.
Each of them eccentrics with great strength. But this doesn't mean
that he can't get that volume of alchemical technique, it's just that if
the alchemical technique is stolen, there will definitely be a huge
uproar in TianXin sect.

That volume of alchemical technique is deemed as a very important

treasure for TianXin sect, so it is checked on frequently. Once the
theft is discovered, TianXin sect will definitely suspect that there is a
traitor within its ranks. Then that group of old guys will definitely
appear from behind the scenes to examine each and every disciple.
This would be very troublesome for him. Furthermore, You XiaoMo
himself seems to have quite a bit of secrets. So stealing the
alchemical technique is a very bad move. He won't choose this
method except as a last resort.

But he already told You XiaoMo that he would get him a volume of
alchemical techniques to train the soul force. As a trustworthy man,
he must do what he says he would. Hence the next day, You XiaoMo
learns from others that Ling Xiao has gone down the mountain.

Yesterday, after finishing their discussion, Ling Xiao stayed for a

while before leaving with twenty magic pills. This leaves You XiaoMo
with thirty magic pills. He feels that he can rely on selling these for
money the next time he goes down the mountain. Even though it is
not a lot, it would at least stop his money bag from becoming flat.

139
As for why Ling Xiao went down the mountain, You XiaoMo
unconsciously thinks that he could be going to look for alchemical
techniques to train the soul force. He feels a little guilty in his heart,
since Ling Xiao is helping him look for it even though it obviously has
nothing to do with him. But when he considers that after obtaining
the alchemical technique he will be able to refine even more magic
pills, that guilty feeling slowly disappears.

Holding the fifty magic pills he refined yesterday, You XiaoMo gets
ready to go to the Hall of Enchanted Herbs to turn them over and at
the same time collect some magic herbs. The Hall of Enchanted
Herbs stipulates that half of the magic pills from the previous batch
of magic herbs must be turned over. If not, you won't be able to get
more magic herbs.

There are one hundred and twenty types of level one magic herbs,
that can be made into forty types of magic pills. Up till now, You
XiaoMo has refined three types of magic pills. Even though it is a long
way from forty, and even though it is not necessary that he has try all
of them once, You XiaoMo decides that he will try to refine each one
once. After all, Ling Xiao did say that uninterrupted practice is
needed to increase the soul force.

As before, the person in charge of the Hall of Enchanted Herbs is

Uncle Zhao. Seeing him head over, he is no longer surprised. The
bottle contains the usual fifty magic pills. Not one more, not one less.
Uncle Zhao doesn't bother to count, not worried that there may only
be forty odd magic pills.

"How many stalks of magic herbs do you want this time?" Uncle Zhao
asks without even raising his eyes.

140
"Six hundred stalks." You XiaoMo hesitates a little before answering.

This is not a small number, although you can only refine two hundred
level one magic pills from this number. Still, very few disciples will
take more than five hundred stalks at once. But Zhao Zhen knows
this young man's speed. He can refine more than one hundred magic
pills in a day. Six hundred stalks will only take two days.

Just when he is about to record the amount, You XiaoMo speaks up

again, "Uncle Zhao, I have a request. I would like to get ingredients
for ten types of magic pills, may I?"

You XiaoMo glances at him and quickly lowers his head when he
looks back at him. He knows that he is being a little unreasonable.
Zhao Zhen finally looks at him properly, a little surprised but not
extremely so, "You may."

Saying this, he starts to gather the six hundred stalks of magic herbs
for him. Ten types of magic pills requires thirty different types of
magic herbs. He doesn't have that many, only half the amount, so
Uncle Zhao allows You XiaoMo to go get them from the medicine
garden. The one who leads him there is a disciple from the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs, a disciple that entered the sect before him.

"You're You XiaoMo?"

Walking one ahead and one behind, You XiaoMo suddenly hears the
voice of the big brother. Not sure if it is his imagination but the big
brother's tone is quite unkind. It feels a bit like disdain, like he is
talking someone that is unworthy.

You XiaoMo can't make any heads or tails of it. It doesn't seem as if
he has done anything to offend this big brother. Furthermore, he has

141
always maintained a low profile with no reason to offend anyone.
Most importantly, he has no recollection of this big brother. On top
that, when did he become so famous such that a big brother he
doesn't recognize is able to call out his name?

The other party stops in front of the entrance to the medicine

garden. Turning around to face him and seeing the bewildered look
on his face, he says: "Looks like you yourself are not aware ba. Now,
everyone in the mage division knows of your existence. And also
know that Elder brother Lin Xiao from the Warrior division
embarrassed Junior sister YunQi in front of everyone because of you.
I also heard that Elder brother Lin Xiao went to look for you in the
afternoon. What's so great about you? Why would Elder brother Lin
Xiao suddenly take an interest in you?"

You XiaoMo is dumbstruck. Not even a day has passed and it actually
spread to this extent. It's too bad that he can't say anything. If it was
the previous Lin Xiao, he definitely wouldn't have anything to do with
him. But inside the shell of "Lin Xiao", it's already a different person.
Furthermore this person is very hateful, always taking delight in
bullying him.

But in the eyes of the people in TianXin sect, Lin Xiao really did take a
sudden interest in him. So it is not possible that there is no reason
behind it.

After some thought, You XiaoMo questions, "This big brother, are
you a Earth peak disciple?"

There is an abrupt change in the expression of the other party. After

giving You XiaoMo a glare, he turns around and leaves. After all, they
have already reached the medicine garden.

142
You XiaoMo rubs his nose. Those words are a little provocative, but
he has no choice. Who asked him to be so aggressive?

The bad relationship between Earth peak and Heaven peak is an

open secret. This bit is clear from what he experienced at the Hall of
Mages a little while back during the choosing of disciples. After that,
You XiaoMo did some digging. Even though the relationship between
the two peaks is not as terrible as he imagined, they have always
been locked in secret competition.

But Earth peak is the one that loses terribly each time. That's
because the good resources and good talent are all taken by Heaven
peak beforehand. This is also the reason why Master Kong Wen is
always in seclusion, refusing to appear.

As for Flying peak, always stuck in the middle, not much brilliance
but also unlikely to end up at the bottom. So they end up being a
passive observer.

There are specialized guards to look after the medicine garden. Each
day there will be a few on duty. After entering, You XiaoMo hands
over the thing that Uncle Zhao gave him to one of them. After taking
a look, the other party simply gathers the remaining magic herbs for
him.

Upon leaving the medicine garden, You XiaoMo heads directly back
to his room.

Upon reaching his room, he doesn't immediately start to refine

magic pills. Instead he takes out twenty white bottles from his magic
bag. The twenty bottles is what he got from Uncle Zhao before
leaving the Hall of Enchanted Herbs. Other than for storing the magic
pills, he plans to use five bottles to hold water from the lake in his

143
dimension.

Since this lake water can replenish his soul force and physical
strength, You XiaoMo decides to prepare some in his magic bag, so
he can use it at any time. This way, he won't have to go get it from
the dimension when the time comes.

With this intention in mind, the body soon appears in the dimension.
This is a result of his research after fumbling around for a day. As
long as he wishes it strongly in his mind, he doesn't need to touch
the teardrop on his chest to get there.

It's just that before he could walk over, he is shocked by the sight of
a huge expanse of lush green things in front of his eyes. He doesn't
even realize that the bottles in his hand have dropped to the ground.

144
Chapter 33 - Key moment

He just planted the magic herbs yesterday, and surprisingly, today

they have all sprouted. Not only that, the level one magic herbs are
growing faster than the level two and level three magic herbs. The
lush green is interspersed with clusters of bright colors. Some of
them have even bore fruit, namely the fragrant fruit herb. Although
they look like they are not yet ripe, it probably won't take much
longer.

As for the level two and level three magic herbs, the level two herbs
are at the seedling stage while the level three magic herbs are a little
slower, but they have all sprouted. You XiaoMo is stupefied. Even
though he has never grown crops, he still knows that they usually
don't sprout so quickly. Sprouting in just one day, this is simply too
unbelievable.

Not stopping to pick up the bottles from the ground, You XiaoMo
runs right over. He is not imagining things, they have indeed all
sprouted. But because they are not yet mature, he can't tell if they
are top grade magic herbs.

You XiaoMo thinks back to the whole process he did when planting
the seeds. Besides scattering the seeds, he also sprinkled them with
the lake water. Thinking of the effects of the lake water, You XiaoMo
is sure that that must be the reason. Since the lake water can
replenish his soul force, it is not surprising that it would have this
effect. Thinking of this, You XiaoMo gets very excited. If the lake
water is able to accelerate the growth of magic herbs, that means
that the magic herbs he grows will definitely grow faster than those
planted by others outside. No matter what grade they are, he

145
wouldn't have to worry if he would have sufficient magic herbs from
now on.

You XiaoMo's face is bright red from all this excitement. He paces
back and forth before forcing himself to calm down. He goes back to
pick up the five bottles and fill them to the brim. Although not a lot,
he normally only needs one sip.

Before leaving, You XiaoMo decides that he has to find the time to
clear out the rest of the weeds. But right until he leaves, he doesn't
notice that the air has begun to show signs of movement.

After that, You XiaoMo spends the whole morning and afternoon
refining magic pills over and over. With everything going smoothly,
he forgets to have lunch.

When he refines magic pills, he will usually refine the ones that he is
going to hand over first. But in order to not appear as if he hasn't
made any progress, he also mixes a few of the higher quality ones
inside. He then places them in his magic bag, ready to hand them
over to Uncle Zhao the next day.

In the afternoon, You XiaoMo does some tests and discovers that his
soul force has not increased one bit from the previous days. This
could be what mages call the bottleneck stage. In this short period of
time, he has diligently refined magic pills. Now, he can refine over
one hundred and fifty magic pills in a day. More than he expected.
But because he isn't able to compare this with that of the other
disciples, he can only judge this based on his own magic pill quantity
during this short time. Although the quantity he can refine each day
has increased significantly, this is due to the increased speed in
which he refines magic pills. So, even though there is a change in his
soul force, it is definitely not significant.

146
Just like what Ling Xiao said, increasing the soul force through
continuous practice is a very slow process. Furthermore, after two
days, he can see that there is no change in his soul force.

The books state that every mage will have different concentrations
of soul force at each level. With each increase in level, the
concentration of soul force will increase by up to two times, almost
like a qualitative change. So, it requires a key moment.

For example, for a mage that continues to practice refining level one
magic pills, after days and days of practice, there will be a huge
amount, but that doesn't mean there will be a breakthrough. There
is a chance, but only a small chance. But if one has a book of
alchemical techniques, then it would be different.

Alchemical techniques directed at training the soul force is similar to

the meditation techniques performed by martial artists. With each
day of training, adding up to months and years, their skills get
stronger and stronger. Training the soul force through alchemical
techniques also abides by this principle.

But You XiaoMo knows that these things cannot be rushed. So he

tidies up the table and gets ready to go eat. Just at this moment, the
door is suddenly pushed open. A familiar figure strides in
obnoxiously.

You XiaoMo sighs helplessly. In the whole TianXin sect, there is only
one that is so arrogant.

147
Chapter 34 - Heavenly Soul Scroll
Elegant white robe, tall stature, Ling Xiao is someone that
approaches perfection. After having travelled for almost a day, there
is no sign of weariness as Ling Xiao walks up to You XiaoMo and
throws a book on the table.

You XiaoMo steals a glance at the book. It's not a new book but it has
been kept meticulously. The book cover is very well kept without any
damage or wrinkle. On it is clearly written [Heavenly Soul Scroll]
three words. One look and you can tell that it is related to the soul
since the word soul is written on it.

Seeing that Ling Xiao is not saying anything, You XiaoMo can't take it
any longer and picks up the book. After flipping through, his whole
face darkens, surprisingly he ....... can't recognize even a single word!

You XiaoMo hesitates, looking at Ling Xiao, "Elder brother Ling, is this
really a book of alchemical techniques to train the soul force?"

Hearing these words, Ling Xiao raises his elegant brows, "Why? You
think I would just take any old book to fool you?"

"No no no." You XiaoMo quickly shakes his head. Of course he

doesn't mean that, "What I mean is, these characters, I don't
recognize them at all. They are completely different from those in
the books from the library. This way, how can I learn?"

"If you are able to understand, the other high level mages would
have lived in vain." Ling Xiao snorts.

"Do you mean that this book is written in ancient characters?"

148
He thinks of the characters on oracle bones. They are very different
from the simplified Chinese characters of today. Two completely
different types of characters. But the latter is still a result of
continuous evolution throughout history.

"How smart." Ling Xiao glances at him, his tone is definitely not one
of praise.

The characters of the Heavenly Soul Scroll is indeed written in

ancient characters of Long Xiao continent. But if you really want to
get to the heart of the matter, probably only a few people will be
able to confirm it. That's because it is from over a hundred billion
years ago.

A hundred billion years ago, there were much more alchemical

techniques to train the soul force than today. But because so much
time has passed, and because some mages are not willing to pass on
these alchemical techniques, the number has decreased with time.
Many of them have even disappeared. That's why there are not
more than ten volumes of alchemical techniques today in Long Xiao
continent.

But You XiaoMo is very curious. Since there are so few, how did he
find this book? No matter how curious, You XiaoMo doesn't dare to
ask the question.

"Elder brother Ling, I don't understand the characters in this book.

How can I train?" You XiaoMo asks while holding the book.

Finally a faint smile appears on Ling Xiao's face, but it's a crafty smile.
He simply says: "Just because you don't understand, doesn't mean I
don't."

149
You XiaoMo didn't expect that he would actually understand those
characters. But the moment of delight disappears with the cunning
tone of his voice. He realizes that it won't come easy. Of course there
will be a price. He can almost imagine his purse getting flatter.

"Elder brother Ling, just tell me what conditions you have."

I will endure.

Ling Xiao reveals a 'so you can be sensible' type of expression.

Making him run east and west, You XiaoMo is actually the first to do
that.

"I can translate the alchemical techniques for you. But once you
make a breakthrough with your soul force, I want ten of that magic
pill."

Everything is said in a non-negotiable tone. You XiaoMo knows what

type of magic pill he is referring to. That's why he is depressed. Ten
times more, just like that. But he finally has a book of alchemical
techniques. You XiaoMo is very excited. Not just ten, even twenty he
would agree ah. Of course, he would never tell Ling Xiao that.

"Elder brother Ling, then should we start now?" You XiaoMo holds
the [Heavenly Soul Scroll] and looks at Ling Xiao with a pair of
sparkling eyes.

Ling Xiao frowns. Again with this little kitten look that makes the
heart itch.

"What's the hurry? Even if I translate it for you now, you still can't
start training immediately."

150
"Why?" You XiaoMo blurts out after a stunned moment.

"Without anyone to show you the way, do you think you will succeed
with your IQ?"

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his mouth. Again with the self-satisfied
and insufferably arrogant look. No matter how you look at it, it is
clearly different from the elegant scholarly look. Why is it that the
others can't see it?

This is clearly an insult. Where does it show that he has a very low
IQ? You XiaoMo is furious.

Ling Xiao stands up, walks over, pulls You XiaoMo by the arm and
leads him outside, "Accompany me for dinner. I'll find some time
tomorrow to come by."

You XiaoMo blinks repeatedly, "Elder brother Ling, where are we

going to eat?"

Ling Xiao looks at him from the corner of his eye, and says with an
ambiguous smile, "Of course we're going to Earth peak's canteen
ah!"

It's a while before You XiaoMo lets out a miserable shriek.

At the same time, in a place where You XiaoMo doesn't know,

something shocking reverberates across Long Xiao continent. It
seems that the renown top level mage of Long Xiao continent, Qiu
Ran has lost something very important. Because of that, he has
issued an extremely high reward. He is offering ten level nine magic
pills and three level ten magic pills in exchange for the thief.

151
For You XiaoMo, that has no access to news from the outside world,
he won't know about this for a very very long time. By that time, he
will already think of [Heavenly Soul Scroll] as something that is
rightfully his.

Notes:
wind and dust - weariness

152
Chapter 35 - Uproar in the canteen

The result is, when the two of them appear, You XiaoMo is again
rightfully the center of attention. It's just that this time, there is also
one Ling Xiao.

It just happens to be the peak time for dinner. When the two of
them arrive, there are already a lot of people seated inside.

Upon seeing them, especially when they see the one by You
XiaoMo's side, Ling Xiao, there is a disciple that spews out his food
right there and then. Spraying on the disciple opposite him, covering
his face with food. The latter doesn't manage to get angry or wipe
himself off because he is also dumbstruck by what he sees.

Right at this moment, the thought that flashes through everyone's

mind is that the rumor is indeed not false. The Warrior division Lin
Xiao actually running over to their domain to eat. Absolutely no one
would have believed it before.

But now, not only has he appeared, he comes together with You
XiaoMo who has been embroiled in scandal these past few days.
Furthermore, their relationship is so close that they are eating
together in front of everyone. If anyone dares to say that there is
nothing between them, they would definitely be cursed to death.

The usually noisy and boisterous market-like atmosphere of the

canteen becomes unusually quiet. You XiaoMo cries tearless tears.
It's not as if he didn't resist. It's just that faced with Ling Xiao, his
protests only seems like tickles. Ineffective and in vain.

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"Elder brother Lin, how about we eat back in the room?" You XiaoMo
asks cautiously.

Ling Xiao shoots a glance at him in return, "Since we're already here,
what's this nonsense about going back to the room? Go get the food,
I'll find a table and wait for you."

You XiaoMo feels the impulse to stab him to death. This clearly isn't
what he said on the way here. He purposely wants to see him suffer.
Without waiting for him to ask what he likes to eat, Ling Xiao walks
away, actually going to look for a table. But most of the tables in the
canteen are actually already occupied. So he suddenly hopes and
prays that Ling Xiao wouldn't be able to find a seat.

Because he doesn't know what he likes to eat, You XiaoMo can only
take a little bit of everything. In the end, by the time he carries a big
tray of food to look for Ling Xiao, he realizes how wrong he was.

Ling Xiao found a spot. But it's definitely not an empty spot. That big
table can seat ten people but how did Ling Xiao do it? A ten person
table and yet there are more than ten people crammed around him.
Furthermore, they are mostly female except for a few men.

You XiaoMo sees him right away. He can't even pretend he can't find
him. So when he goes over, there is simply no place for him. Seeing
him come over, Ling Xiao says a few words to the female disciple
next to him. That female disciple suddenly covers her face coyly
while standing up and giving up her seat.

You XiaoMo is completely speechless. This man is what one calls a

beast in human clothing, the black sheep in literary circles. So
detestable towards him, always seeking amusement at his expense.
But to the other disciples, he smiles so freely, both elegant and

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graceful.

After he sits down by Ling Xiao's side, he hears a voice that only he
can hear, "It's just getting food, why are you so slow?"

Slow? He already considers this fast. Interrupting Ling Xiao being

hugged from all sides.

Probably due to the rapidly spreading news, more and more people
are arriving at the canteen. Among them are those that have already
left after eating, now rushing back again.

As a result, You XiaoMo feels extreme pressure during this meal.

Because knife-like stares scrape across his body if not a thousand,
then at least eight hundred. Admiration, jealousy, and hate, all
embodied in those glares.

But Ling Xiao is also probably fed up with the situation. He finishes
quickly and pulls You XiaoMo, who still hasn't finished eating, out of
the canteen. This is the only time You XiaoMo doesn't complain
about Ling Xiao's dictatorial actions because he also really wants to
leave the canteen. He's only there because of Ling Xiao so it doesn't
matter that he hasn't finished eating.

Upon reaching the room, Ling Xiao doesn't go in. He just asks You
XiaoMo for todays batch of magic pills and leaves. You XiaoMo
already has everything prepared. For the whole day, other than
refining the one hundred magic pills to be handed over to the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs, he also refined Ling Xiao's share. Just enough, not
one more, not one less. As for tomorrow, other than those for Ling
Xiao, the rest is for himself.

After sending Ling Xiao off, You XiaoMo takes out a few books from

155
his room, and hurries towards the library. Although what Ling Xiao
said is right, that [Heavenly Soul Scroll] is written in ancient text, he
still wants to go to the library to look around. To check if he can find
some information.

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Chapter 36 - Manuscript
You XiaoMo had originally planned to go to the library the next day.
But because of what happened today, he decided to go while it is
getting dark. Once it gets dark, usually there will be very few
disciples wandering outside except for a few guards on patrol. So You
XiaoMo doesn't run into anyone on his way to the library.

It's a pity but You XiaoMo doesn't find what he is looking for. A
hundred billion years ago is really too long ago. Since people no
longer remember it, what more of records in books. In the end, he
borrows a few illustrated magic herb handbooks and goes back.

At night, You XiaoMo again takes out that [Heavenly Soul Scroll] and
looks it over. It's too bad he still can't make any sense of it. A
hundred billion years ago, who knows how much the characters have
evolved. There simply isn't a shred of resemblance. So he can only
put the book back into his dimension.

This time, You XiaoMo doesn't start to refine magic pills. Instead, he
has a good night's sleep. Only when sunshine pours in from outside
the window does he wake up in a daze. Who would expect that he
would jump in fright from a magnified face in front of his eyes.

With a *dong*, You XiaoMo's forehead crashes into the other face
.......

It may be that Ling Xiao's face is made out steel. A hard smack and
immediately a bun emerges from You XiaoMo's forehead, steaming
and fragrant, as if fresh from the oven.

"*wu wu* ....... " You XiaoMo's whimpering cries can be heard after

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hitting his head.

The chief culprit on the other hand, is standing to one side laughing
madly. The early morning sunshine on his body adds to his bright
looks. Such a dazzling man. If only his character isn't so hateful.

"Little brother, does it hurt?" Ling Xiao sits beside him on the bed
asking laughingly.

You XiaoMo is unable to say anything. Once again he experiences

this loathsome nature of Ling Xiao. Look at the state he's in. How can
it not hurt? Even tears are threatening to spill out.

But he is puzzled. He clearly hit Ling Xiao's face full on. But the other
party is completely unaffected when he is in so much pain with
bumps sprouting on his head.

"Your face, why is it so hard?" When the fierce pain starts to subside,
he can't help from asking.

Ling Xiao leans over him, a gentle smile like a warm spring breeze on
his face, "You're only a mere mortal. How can you possibly compare
to me? Even though this body is only an illusion, whichever piece of
my body is still tougher than your forehead."

"Whichever piece?" Isn't that really too boastful?

You XiaoMo -_-||. But he doesn't doubt his words. The more he finds
out about him, the more he feels that Ling Xiao is not someone
anyone can understand. He always feels that this cheeky grin is only
Ling Xiao's mask. What is behind the mask, he has no idea.

"Elder brother Lin, why are you so early today?"

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You XiaoMo quickly changes the topic. He no longer wishes to
continue with this strange topic, else he will be the only one to
suffer.

"Didn't I tell you yesterday that I would find time to come see you?"
Ling Xiao says as he walks over to sit at the table. His demeanor is
one that is very pleased with himself. He appears relaxed with a
tinge of forced elegance.

But in You XiaoMo's eyes, he's just being a pompous ass.

"This is still too early ba!" You XiaoMo grumbles in a small voice. He
never expected that Ling Xiao is such a man of action.

In order not to let Ling Xiao wait too long, lest he leaves from
impatience, You XiaoMo only takes the time it takes to brew half a
cup of tea to wash up. When he returns to the room, there is a tea
set on his table from who knows where, and Ling Xiao is calmly
sipping tea.

You XiaoMo almost sputters. The beast in human clothing can

actually enjoy tea. Wildly exceeding his expectations.

Seeming him return, a book suddenly appears in Ling Xiao's empty

hand. On the book is written the three words You XiaoMo is familiar
with, translation of [Heavenly Soul Scroll]. One look and You XiaoMo
immediately pounces only to come up empty handed.

Ling Xiao looks at the You XiaoMo who almost fell flat on his face, his
lips curving up into a smile, "No need to be so impatient ah. Let us
first discuss the terms. A translated manuscript from the great me,
there is only one such book in the whole Long Xiao continent. Do you

159
think you can send me away with a few measly magic pills?"

You XiaoMo turns into stone!

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Chapter 37 - Face to face.

So, after agreeing to conditions akin to forfeiting sovereignty and

humiliating the country, You XiaoMo finally gets the book he has
been wishing for. Brimming with excitement, You XiaoMo flips open
the book. One look at the contents and a deep fissure immediately
appears on his face.

On the first page is written tadpole-like characters in a complete

mess. The awesome looking characters make him want to roar at
Ling Xiao with rage.

This ... this ... this ... what kind of joke is this? You XiaoMo is roaring
with anger inside. How wrong he was. It's really like he said.
Someone capable of writing the manuscript this way, it's probably
only him alone in the whole Long Xiao continent.

The exuberant Ling Xiao sees You XiaoMo gets all stiff, so he asks
kindheartedly: "Little brother, how is it?"

You XiaoMo lifts up his head, trying his best to appear calm and
composed, "Elder brother Lin, this ....... I still don't understand."

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes, looking back and forth between the
expression on his face and the manuscript in his hands, finally
settling on his face. He suddenly takes back the manuscript and
scoffs, "I haven't written in a long time, and also, the characters I use
don't seem to be the same as what you know, and you still want me
to show consideration for your feelings? Since you don't understand,
then you don't need it. I'll personally translate it verbally to you word
for word."

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You XiaoMo shudders, he feels that he has made a mistake. If Ling
Xiao is going to translate it verbally for him, doesn't that mean that
for a short while they would have to be together day and night? But
after one morning, You XiaoMo finally gets a taste of sweetness.

Ling Xiao personally translating it verbally for him is indeed better

than him learning on his own by reading. At the least, he will explain
things to him when he encounters the occasional things that he
doesn't understand. Although there are occasional unkind words, in
the end, the benefit he derives is still significant.

[Heavenly Soul Scroll] is a high level alchemical technique, one of the

best among other alchemical techniques. Otherwise, the only top
level mage Qiu Ran would not have issued such a high reward. This
underlines the prized nature of the [Heavenly Soul Scroll].

The [Heavenly Soul Scroll] is divided into six core levels. The first
three levels are comparatively easy to practice. The last three are
extremely hard to practice. Although there are only six levels, less
than that of other alchemical techniques, but with the breakthrough
of each level, the benefit cannot be conveyed in just a few words.

The success that the top level mage Qiu Ran has today can't be
separated from his innate talent, but if he didn't have that [Heavenly
Soul Scroll], he would need several hundred years to achieve the
same level of success. So much so that it would be a thousand years
later before he succeeds.

The contents of [Heavenly Soul Scroll] is definitely not much. It's

called a book but it actually only has some ten pages. But after
translating these ten pages, the content is still obscure and hard to
understand. You XiaoMo, as a modern age man of the 21st century is

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used to the straightforward meaning portrayed by simplified
characters. If Ling Xiao doesn't explain it to him, he simply won't be
able to understand. This type of 'inborn' defect was mocked by Ling
Xiao many times.

Just like this, the whole morning passes with them in teacher and
student mode. You XiaoMo thought that Ling Xiao would again go to
the Earth peak canteen for lunch, completely aware of his doomed
fate. But instead Ling Xiao just suddenly disappears after saying he
will be back tomorrow.

You XiaoMo is surprised by his sudden move, but a second later he

learns the reason because there is a *kou kou* at the door. Elder
brother Fang ChenLe's voice comes in from outside.

"Little brother XiaoMo, are you there?"

You XiaoMo quickly answers him and immediately keeps the book
before going over to open the door.

Fang ChenLe stands at door but doesn't enter. Seeing him, he smiles
warmly and says: "Little brother, Master sent me to ask you to go
over."

"Why ....... does he want to see me?" You XiaoMo is stunned, it is a

while before he remembers which Master he is referring to. Elder
brother's Master is the one in charge of Earth peak, Kong Wen. But
ever since the disciple picking event at the Hall of Mages, he has not
seen Kong Wen again. Furthermore, he doesn't even know if he is
considered his disciple or not at this time. Wanting to meet him is
really unexpected.

"This ah, you'll know when you get there." Fang ChenLe sees that he

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is hesitant but doesn't give him any explanation, instead leaving him
with a mysterious answer.

One of the higher ups wants to see him. Even if it is not Kong Wen,
he would still have to go. You XiaoMo doesn't question any further.
He nods showing that he understands and returns to the room to
straighten out a little before following him on the way.

Although Earth peak is firmly oppressed by Heaven peak and Flying

peak, that doesn't have any effect on Kong Wen's status. This is
because he is one of the three mages able to refine level nine magic
pills. Although the success rate is not high, it is still something that
can't be belittled. So even though Heaven peak is always oppressing
Earth peak, they don't dare to issue a deadly blow because it will
only lead to the ire of the Grand Master and the Elders, the losses
clearly outweighing the gains.

Such a powerful man wanting to meet him today really leaves You
XiaoMo a little unsettled. All the disciples of Earth peak know that
Kong Wen has been refining magic pills in seclusion all along. Now,
the minute he comes out of seclusion he calls for him. He must have
heard of the matter regarding him and Ling Xiao. If it is something
good, then that would a different thing altogether, but You XiaoMo's
greatest fear is that it's something bad!

Fang ChenLe quickly leads him to Kong Wen's compound. Because

his status is different, he has his own compound. Before they could
enter, Kong Wen seems to sense their approach, simply inviting
them to come in.

"Come on in!"

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Chapter 38 - Formal disciple.

You XiaoMo enters behind Fang ChenLe. As they cross the courtyard,
he sees a few magic herb plots. Of course there are more magic
herbs in the magic herb gardens, but You XiaoMo stares at these
because the magic herbs in the plots are all high level magic herbs.

These high level magic herbs are those above level six. He read about
them before so he recognizes them. But usually these are only
needed by high level mages because low level and mid level mages
are restricted by their level. Even if they have high level magic herbs,
they are unable to refine any magic pills. But these high level magic
herbs are only at the seedling stage, a long way from maturing.

Upon entering, Fang ChenLe doesn't bring him to Kong Wen's room,
but walks towards the backyard. After a few steps, a figure in blue is
visible. That person has his back towards them, squatting next to a
magic herb plot. He seems to be fiddling with some magic herb.

You XiaoMo freezes for a moment. This person is Kong Wen but he
clearly heard his voice coming from inside the room just a moment
ago.

"Master, I've brought him." Fang ChenLe says respectfully to the

middle-aged man.

The middle-aged man wipes his hands and gets up. He turns around
saying: "ChenLe, go ahead and help Master infuse a pot of tea. I have
some things to discuss with your Little brother."

Fang ChenLe happily agrees. Before leaving he surreptitiously winks

165
at You XiaoMo and mouths the word 'Congratulations'. You XiaoMo
is puzzled. Why would Elder brother congratulate him?

"Do you know what this magic herb is?"

After Fang ChenLe leaves, Kong Wen again turns towards the plot of
magic herbs behind him. The first thing he asks is related to magic
herbs.

Although he did not call him by name, You XiaoMo knows that he is
the one being asked. That's because he is the only one here. He
cranes his neck to look at the magic herb at Kong Wen's feet. Luckily
he has seen this magic herb in the books. After some thought, he
names it.

"If I remember correctly, this should be the level seven magic herb,
Goldthorn herb."

Goldthorn herb is just like its name implies. No matter the leaves or
stems, they all appear golden. Every time the sun shines, the
radiance of the goldthorn herb is very dazzling. Usually one would
not be able to look directly at it at this time. But it is also the best
time to identify the goldthorn herb.

Luckily for You XiaoMo, he has been reading a lot these few days.
Although there are not many level seven magic herbs in the books,
there are simple descriptions of their characteristics. So with one
look, You XiaoMo is able to identify it. As far as he knows, one that
glitters so brightly is the goldthorn herb. Furthermore, since Kong
Wen is a high level mage, his courtyard is mostly planted with high
level magic herbs. Just like those few magic herb plots he saw when
he came in. Putting these two things together, he guesses that it
must be the goldthorn herb.

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Kong Wen nods in apparent satisfaction, "Not bad, even though you
only entered the sect for less than a month, but you can already
recognize the goldthorn herb. That's not easy. Furthermore, Master
has already heard from Uncle Zhao from the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs. He says that you are very diligent in refining magic pills. Even
though your inborn talent is lacking, you have the will to improve. So
Master has decided to receive you as a formal disciple!"

You XiaoMo is temporarily giddy from having being hit by the golden
goose that fell from the sky. Kong Wen wants to accept him as a
formal disciple? No wonder Elder brother congratulated him before
leaving. Looks like this is the reason.

"What is it? Are you not willing?" Kong Wen asks seeing that he
doesn't respond for a long time.

You XiaoMo immediately comes back to his senses, stammering:

"Willing, disciple is willing. Mas ______ honorable Master, please
accept this one disciple!"

Saying this he kneels down and gives Kong Wen a proper kowtow
banging his head on the ground. Of course he's just copying what he
has seen on TV.

Kong Wen doesn't stop him, fully feeling that he deserves this act of
respect. He later allows him to stand up, "Master has six other
disciples below me. From today onwards, you will be number seven.
They are all your seniors. The one that brought you here today is
your Elder brother Fang ChenLe. I trust you already know each other.
Later he will bring you to meet the other five disciples."

"Yes, Master!" You Xiao replies respectfully.

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After that, Kong Wen says a few words. The usual things that he
should pay attention to. From start to finish, he doesn't bring up the
matter between him and Ling Xiao. As if the only reason he called
him over was to accept him as a formal disciple.

When it is about the Wei period, that is to say 1 pm, Kong Wen
finally lets them leave. Fang ChenLe simply brings You XiaoMo to the
canteen. Although it is a little late, the cook would usually leave
some food for Fang ChenLe. Because he knew that they would be
late, Fang ChenLe told the cook to leave aside a little more this time.

After lunch, Fang ChenLe brings him to meet a few of the other
disciples. Being able to become a disciple of Kong Wen is a matter of
intense pride in Earth peak. Kong Wen is a high level mage, one of
the top in the Mage division. He has the highest power in the whole
of Earth peak. Even though Earth peak is ranked last among the three
peaks, there are still a lot of people that want to be his disciple.
Although there are so many disciples in Earth peak, only six can be
considered Kong Wen's disciples. So that means that it's not easy to
become Kong Wen's disciple.

A good master can steer oneself to the right direction, cutting down
the number of detours. You XiaoMo didn't think that a high level
mage like Kong Wen would accept his as a disciple. So he never had
such extravagant hopes. He had only thought that if no one is willing
to accept him as a disciple, he would just learn everything from
books. Who would have guessed that such good news would come
crashing down on him. Although happy, You XiaoMo is still a little
uncertain. Why would Kong Wen accept him as a disciple? He
believes that it can't be just because he is diligent. There must be
some other reason but he can't figure it out. So it's best to drop it.
After all, being a disciple of Kong Wen will only bring him more good

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than harm.

Kong Wen has six disciples. Among them is Fifth brother Zhao
DaZhou nad Third brother Wu Yan both of which he has met before.
Zhao DaZhou is the one he met on the way to the canteen before.
When he was following behind a group of people. It's also that Big
brother Zhao that let him know that one must have connections with
the higher ups in order to get good work assignments. That was what
made him give up that idea. But this Big brother Zhao has always had
connections since young. He is the son of Uncle Zhao who is in
charge of the Hall of Enchanted Herbs. His nature is completely
different from that of Uncle Zhao. He is rather fond of showing off
but his basic character is definitely not bad. Otherwise, Kong Wen
would not have accepted him as a disciple.

As for Third brother Wu Yan, he is the one that was there when he
first tried refining magic pills. He was the one Elder brother asked to
look after them. A very amiable and patient big brother. Then there
is Fourth sister Nan GongYing and Sixth brother Mao Can. Elder
brother brings him to meet all four of them one by one.

Hearing that Master accepted a disciple right after coming out of

seclusion, all four of them were very surprised, especially Zhou
DaZhou. However, they didn't show an extreme reaction since Elder
brother is personally bringing him around so Master must have
already accepted him as a disciple. If Zhou DaZhou had not give him
a thinly veiled appraising look, You XiaoMo would have been quite
pleased with this trip.

As for the Second brother Fu ZiLin, You XiaoMo doesn't get the
chance to meet him. According to Elder brother, he went down the
mountain a few days ago to look for a magic herb. Furthermore, this
Second brother has a completely different character than the rest of

169
them. Referred to as a Little genius, Fu ZiLin is actually someone with
an poker face, also falling into the class of people that are habitually
silent. Among the disciples, the only one that is used to his nature is
Elder brother Fang ChenLe. Furthermore, Elder brother is the only
one that can talk to him. If others we to talk to him, they would be
ignored. So it seems that Fu ZiLin doesn't have many friends even
though he is a little genius when it comes to refining magic pills.

When You XiaoMo reaches back to his room, the sun is about two
hours away from setting. Because he spent the whole morning with
Ling Xiao practicing [Heavenly Soul Scroll] in the room, and then
going to meet Kong Wen, and then going around to meet the other
disciples, it took up a lot of time. As a result, he hasn't refined a
single magic pill today. Thinking that Ling Xiao may be back at any
time to collect magic pills, You XiaoMo rushes to bring out his
cauldron and prepares to refine magic pills as soon as he returns to
the room.

This time refining magic pills is not the same as before because he
has already practiced [Heavenly Soul Scroll]. Ling Xiao had told him
that he can make use of [Heavenly Soul Scroll] at any time, especially
when refining magic pills.

Because it is necessary to stimulate the soul force when refining

magic pills, from ample to lacking, from lacking to ample, an
unending cycle of consumption and recovery, making use of
[Heavenly Soul Scroll] alchemical techniques, one can continuously
challenge the limits of the soul force. This way one can achieve a
breakthrough and increase the soul force at the same time.

Because he had already tried it out a few times in the morning, You
XiaoMo easily gets the [Heavenly Soul Scroll] alchemical technique to
resonate with his soul force. In this way, he can achieve twice the

170
result with half the effort. Because of this, You XiaoMo purposely
slows down his speed in order to avoid making any mistakes.

As a result, by the time the sun sets, You XiaoMo only refined ten
magic pills. Even then, he is so tired and covered in sweat that he can
hardly lift any of his fingers. Luckily there is the magical lake water.
After drinking half a bottle and taking a short rest, You XiaoMo
continues.

Originally worried that Ling Xiao would come over and criticize him
for not having the magic pills ready, You XiaoMo was on edge for
over two hours. In the end, waiting until the middle of the night,
when most people have fallen asleep, there is still no sign of Ling
Xiao .......

Notes:
meat pie - golden goose
Wei period - 13:00-15:00

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Chapter 39 - Lecture at the Skylark Hall
The next day, You XiaoMo heads to the Skylark Hall. Skylark Hall is
where a few high level mages will give lectures. Usually about once a
month. This month is Kong Wen's turn. Yesterday, before leaving,
Elder brother told him about this, stressing that he has to go no
matter what he has going on.

Yesterday, Kong Wen accepted him as a disciple. But the people who
know this are few. So Kong Wen plans to make use of this occasion
to introduce You XiaoMo to the whole Earth peak because lectures
from high level mages are always a packed affair, gathering many
more times the usual number of people.

In order to not be late, You XiaoMo sets out ahead of time. Because
this is his first time going to Skylark Hall, and because he is unlike the
other disciples, frequently asking around for information, until now
he actually has no idea that Earth peak has a Skylark Hall. So by the
time he arrives at the Skylark Hall, all the seagrass floor cushions
seems to be already occupied. A dense mass of heads. Because it is
not yet time, everyone is busy chatting. All the whispers added
together makes it seem like a vegetable market.

You XiaoMo stands at the entrance and looks inside, trying to look
for Elder brother. Instead he sees someone right at the front stand
up, turn around, and wave to him.

"Little brother, over here!"

The person waving at him is Fang ChenLe. He has been waiting for
this little brother for a long time. He coincidentally caught sight of
this little brother craning his neck looking all over with knitted brows

172
and anxious face. He can't help but find it amusing. Knowing that it is
his first time here, so he probably doesn't know how to make head
or tail out of anything, he decides to call out to him. But the whole
Skylark Hall quiets down at Fang ChenLe's voice.

Rows of heads turn around at once, immediately catching sight of

You XiaoMo standing at the door. Quite a few people immediately
recognize him, some even to the extent of exclaiming out loud.

"Yi, isn't he the one who ate together with the Warrior division's Lin
Xiao at the canteen? Why is he also so familiar with Elder brother
Fang?"

You XiaoMo feels the burning stares from all sides, only able to
quicken his pace towards Fang ChenLe. The whispering start up again
except that it is louder than before. Because Fang ChenLe had told
the few disciples in the know to not reveal that You XiaoMo had
been accepted as Kong Wen's disciple, most people still do not know
about this. Otherwise, it would be even more shocking.

Fang ChenLe had already guessed that he would not be able to find a
seat, so he reserved one for him beforehand. Walking over, You
XiaoMo sees an empty seat next to Fang ChenLe. The other four
disciples are seated at his side, in the same row.

After thanking Elder brother, and greeting the other disciples, You
XiaoMo puts on a blank face and sits down. He suddenly realizes that
although he has always wanted to keep a low profile, the people he
knows always make him appear in a high profile way in front of
everybody, leaving a high profile image in everyone's mind. He really
doesn't know if it is a good thing or a bad thing!

Kong Wen finally arrives fifteen minutes later. Dressed in the usual

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simple blue robe with a white jade hairpin on his head. Definitely not
particularly eye-catching but he still radiates the imposing manner or
a superior man. Most people would feel the urge to lower their head
upon seeing him. Following his arrival the whole Skylark Hall quiets
down. So silent that the sound of a needle falling on the floor would
be heard.

Today he doesn't launch straight into the lecture as he usually does.

Instead he starts by introducing someone to everyone. This person is
the one that had just been deeply scrutinized by everyone, You
XiaoMo. Once they hear that he has been accepted as the seventh
disciple of Kong Wen, all the disciples seated on the seagrass floor
cushions erupt loudy *hua*.

"Master Kong actually accepted a disciple, when did this happen?"

"This You XiaoMo is really something. A few days before, he became

the talk of the town with the Warrior division Lin Xiao. And in just a
few days, he actually succeeded in becoming Master Kong's disciple.
Really too much!"

"Really, what is his background? Why do all the big shots in TianXin
sect want to associate with him?"

"I heard that his inborn talent is nothing to shout about. Why would
Master Kong accept him as a disciple?"

"Can it be that this is what they call nepotism?"

..........

Many people start questioning one after another. A few days ago,
when he got involved with Lin Xiao, some people already started to

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investigate him. As a result they found out that his inborn talent is
nothing much. Not too long ago at the Hall of Mages, he definitely
wasn't selected by Heaven peak or Flying peak. In the end, he was
accepted into Earth peak by Master Kong, but Master Kong did not
immediately make him his disciple. If his talent is that good, Master
Kong would have definitely accepted him on the spot. But he did not.
Now when they hear this news, most of them will think of his good
relationship with Lin Xiao.

Although the Mage division is essential to TianXin sect, the Warrior

division is also something it can't do without. TianXin sect is able to
become the number one sect because of its Warrior division. If you
want to describe the role of the Mage division, then one could say
that it plays more of a management role.

Lin Xiao, who is the number one among the younger generation in
the Warrior division, has a high chance of becoming the next Grand
Master. So, if Master Kong were to say some nice things about You
XiaoMo, it is possible that he may gain some favors.

"Silence!" Kong Wen says calmly. Everyone immediately seals their

mouths. Heavy breathing can be heard throughout Skylark Hall. It's
obvious that everyone is worked up over this, maybe even furious
that You XiaoMo succeeded in becoming Kong Wen's disciple.
Anyway, a mixture of admiring, jealous, and hateful glares once again
fall on You XiaoMo, and not for the first time.

You XiaoMo can only pull in his head. Seeing his tortoise-like
behavior, Fang ChenLe who is sitting next to him can only find it very
funny. This little brother is always giving him an uncommon 'pleasant
surprise'.

Everyone had thought that Kong Wen will say something about this

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matter but he does not. Instead he acts as if he doesn't hear
anything can carries on as if nothing happened.

The main topic he wants to cover today is his insights on refining

magic pills. With him being a high level mage, his experience refining
magic pills is rich and valuable. If you were to miss it, don't think of
hearing it again because he will not talk about this topic again.

You XiaoMo who was hopelessly uncomfortable soon becomes

transfixed. Although Kong Wen is talking about mid-level magic pills,
not something that he can engage in for the moment, he still can
listen and prepare beforehand. The lecture lasts for two hours. You
XiaoMo looks on with a face that shows he doesn't want it to end.
Right up to the point Kong Wen declares the lecture over, You
XiaoMo is still transfixed. As a result, Fang ChenLe has to call him
back to his senses.

"Little brother, how long do you intend to continue sitting here?"

"Ah?" You XiaoMo suddenly wakes up. He sees Elder brother looking
at him with a teasing smile, and soon realizes that both of them are
the only ones left in Skylark Hall. He immediately scrambles to stand
up awkwardly.

Fang ChenLe doesn't continue teasing him. Instead he asks

kindheartedly if he understands what Master was talking about. And
if he doesn't, then he can always look for him anytime.

You XiaoMo thanks him and parts ways with him upon leaving
Skylark Hall. But when he returns to his room, he finds that there is
someone he doesn't recognize standing by the door. That person
seems to be waiting for him. His expression is coldly indifferent, it
could be just his nature or it could be due to something else. Upon

176
seeing him, he asks immediately without any words of greeting.

"Are you You XiaoMo?"

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Chapter 40 - Four days
You XiaoMo doesn't know who he is so he just nods his head.

That person also doesn't beat around the bush, "Lin Xiao asked me to
get a message to you. These few days he is out on assignment. He
will look for you when he gets back. So you don't have to worry!"

You XiaoMo blushes. He understands the first part but what does the
last part mean? What not to worry? When did he worry about that
fellow? Simply making something out of nothing.

Not waiting for him to speak, that person continues speaking.

"And also, he wants you to prepare the quantity for these five days.
When the time comes, he will come to collect them altogether. So
you should not be lazy."

So this is the important point ba! You XiaoMo can't help but roll his
eyes. He doesn't need to be told that. Especially since he has never
been lazy. On top of that, he is now Kong Wen's disciple. If he were
to make his Master lose face, it wouldn't be good for him.

"I understand. Thank you for coming over." Inwardly cursing over
and over, You XiaoMo still politely thanks him.

That person gives him a look. A handsome face that is as cold as ice.
He says flatly: "You don't have to thank me. Elder brother asked me
to come. I did not come here especially for you. Furthermore, even
though I don't know what kind of agreement you have with Elder
brother, I hope you will stay far away from Elder brother. Being
together with him will bring you no good."

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Soulmate na. You XiaoMo almost rushes over to grasp his hand. Ling
Xiao that scum. Getting involved with him not only does him no
good, he also gets bossed around. Not even a bit of personal
freedom.

It's too bad he can't tell this young man that Ling Xiao is already not
the Elder brother you know. He is only an imitation, nothing more.
So the one that will not benefit from being together with Ling Xiao
includes him as well. But this is the first time someone so kindly
warns him about getting near to Ling Xiao. It's also the first time
someone looks at him without judgement. You XiaoMo can tell that
this person is simply warning him. There is no sign of contempt or
disdain unlike the others.

Thinking of this, You XiaoMo smiles at him, saying earnestly: "Thank

you for your sincere advice!"

That person clearly did not expect that he would thank him so
sincerely, so he is momentarily stunned. Normally wouldn't someone
get angry when they hear this? But he doesn't plan to ask him this.
He just looks at him carefully for a moment before leaving. This
person seems to be different from those who have approached him
or Elder brother before!

After closing the door, You XiaoMo jumps in excitement. Thinking of

how he won't have to see Ling Xiao for some time, he feels especially
good. Furthermore he is full of enthusiasm from listening to Master
Kong Wen for two hours so he is full of energy. Taking out the
cauldron, and with the remaining magic herbs from yesterday, You
XiaoMo starts to refine magic pills in high spirits.

Since he doesn't know how long Ling Xiao will be away, You XiaoMo

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decides to store up two days worth. This will save him from trouble if
Ling Xiao suddenly comes back.

Maybe it's due to his good mood, or maybe because good things
have been happening to him in a row, You XiaoMo's speed in refining
magic pills is faster than yesterday. Before, he could only refine ten
relatively good quality level one magic pills in two hours. Now he can
refine fifteen.

Furthermore, You XiaoMo discovers that his soul force is stronger

than yesterday. Even though it is not very obvious, it is still
noticeable. Looks like this is the difference between having and not
having alchemical techniques.

Previously, he refined magic pills non-stop, at least a hundred pills

every day, and yet there seems to be no change in the strength of his
soul force. Or maybe the change was too negligible. But now with
just one day practicing the alchemical technique, there is significant
advancement in his soul force. No wonder TianXin sect keeps its
alchemical techniques under wraps. It turns out that alchemical
techniques have this much power.

But what You XiaoMo doesn't know, is that if [Heavenly Soul Scroll] is
only a common alchemical technique, his advancement wouldn't be
so obvious. For example, the alchemical technique that TianXin sect
has. Even though it is so closely guarded, it is actually only a low level
alchemical technique. Simply not on the same level as [Heavenly Soul
Scroll] whatsoever. If You XiaoMo could compare them, only then
would he know how incredible his advancement is.

But the reason why the progress is so obvious only after one day is
because each alchemical technique is not too difficult in the
beginning. But it gets harder as one progresses, so the following

180
advancement may not be so obvious for You XiaoMo.

Due to the increase in his soul force, his speed also increases. So You
XiaoMo quickly uses up the remaining magic herbs. All of it was for
Ling Xiao's share. He then goes to the Hall of Enchanted Herbs to
take one thousand and two hundred stalks of magic herbs.

At this time, the fact that he has been accepted as the seventh
disciple by Kong Wen has already spread throughout Earth peak, and
actually throughout the whole Mage division.

He could be mistaken but You XiaoMo feels that Uncle Zhao is

looking at him with a friendlier smile. As if he had become family
overnight. Furthermore, he doesn't hesitate at all when he asks for
one thousand and two hundred stalks of magic herbs.

He could basically figure out the reason. Because his son, Zhao
DaZhou and him are now disciples under the same Master, much like
sitting on the same boat. So a change in attitude is only to be
expected. But the change in attitude is not only with Uncle Zhao
alone. There are also other disciples, the few he met along the way.
Those few people will smile and greet him as if their shunning
attitude before yesterday was all an illusion.

Of course, status is just like how boats rises with a surge in the tides.
Other people will start to treat you better. Such is the cruel reality of
humankind! Luckily You XiaoMo is not someone who cares about
these things. If not, he would be really depressed. They are all clearly
disciples of the same group. It's bad enough that they are not
committed to refining magic pills to surpass Heaven and Flying peak.
On top of that, they scheme and plot against each other.

On the way back there were a few disciples that wanted to talk to

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him but You XiaoMo pretends that he doesn't notice them. He hugs
the big pile of magic herbs and rushes back to his room. He then
starts the dry and dull process of refining magic pills. During that
time, no one came to disturb him, including Fang ChenLe that had
originally planned on coming over to find him. But he found out from
Uncle Zhao that he had asked for such a large amount of magic herbs
so he just dismisses the idea while laughing. Such a hardworking little
brother. Looks like the Master has good judgement.

Four days later, You XiaoMo finally comes out of the room sporting
two black eyebags. The sun that has not been seen for so long, wu,
too dazzling. Four days earlier, his surging spirits resulted in him not
taking one step out of his room.

But it is worth it because he refined a heap of magic pills. Especially

one of them, called the Fasting magic pill. Like its name, with this pill,
you can stop worrying about feeling hungry or thirsty, but only for a
short period of time. For example, the Fasting magic pill that he
refined is only effective for not more than ten days.

Fasting magic pill is a level one magic pill, so its effect cannot be too
great. There is no risk in taking the fasting magic pill, but the higher
the grade, the longer the effect. So You XiaoMo continually improves
the distillation of the magic herbs and finally refines a highly
effective Fasting magic pill. It lasts for half a month, and could be
considered to be the best among low grade Fasting magic pills. It
must be said that ordinary low grade Fasting magic pill would only
last for five days. For longer periods one has to look to mid or high
grade magic pills. It is said that the best mid-level magic pill can last
for half a year and the best top level magic pill can last for ten years
although it's not clear if that's the truth.

Be that as it may, You XiaoMo only refined twenty Fasting magic pills.

182
First of all, he is an earthling. Used to eating three times a day. If he
doesn't eat, it would feel a little strange. Secondly, he is not familiar
with the Fasting magic pill. Furthermore he doesn't need to
frequently go into seclusion. After thinking it over, he decides to only
refine twenty.

In addition, he also refined a huge pile of other magic pills. Other

than those for Ling Xiao and the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, he refined
one hundred pills for himself. So he decides that he would go down
the mountain once more. This time it is again to exchange magic pills
for money. He wants to buy more magic herb seeds, especially level
one magic herb seeds. If nothing unexpected happens, he would be
needing much more magic herb seeds in the future.

"Little brother, finally willing to come out after four days of

seclusion?"

At the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, just when You XiaoMo is about the
take out the magic pills from his magic bag to hand over to Uncle
Zhao, he hears a somewhat joking gentle voice from behind him. You
XiaoMo turns around and sees that it is Elder brother Fang ChenLe.
He also just came out from inside, coincidentally catching sight of
him so he comes over. Since they now share the same Master, their
conversation manner also becomes more familiar. You XiaoMo has
always had a good impression of this Elder brother. Other than Ling
Xiao, he is more at ease with Fang ChenLe than with Kong Wen.

"Elder brother." You XiaoMo hands over the magic pills to Uncle
Zhao and then walks up to him.

"Seclusion for four days and your condition seems to be better than
ever."

183
Fang ChenLe sees that he is full of energy with a rosy complexion so
he can't help but feel a little surprised. Not at all like someone who
has been seclusion for four days. How could he know that during
those four days in seclusion, You XiaoMo had drank quite a lot of
lake water.

You XiaoMo also can't tell him that, so he can only rub his own head
and laugh stupidly.

Just at this time, a somewhat cold voice calls out behind him.

"You XiaoMo, looks like you're having a fine time when I'm not
around ma!"

184
Chapter 41 - Jealousy
From the sound of his voice, You XiaoMo immediately knows who it
is. Turning around, he sees the familiar figure. He is finally back after
being away for four days. Furthermore, from the look of it, it seems
like he came right over after coming back. Looks like he really can't
wait for the one hundred magic pills.

You XiaoMo doesn't notice his displeased tone. He walks up to him

and asks casually:" Elder brother Ling, you've finally come back. Last
time someone came over to tell me that you were going on an
assignment. That person must be your younger disciple ba?"

Saying this, he takes out two small bottles from his bag. Just when he
is about to hand them over, Fang ChenLe walks over to them.

"You are the warrior division brother Lin Xiao ba. How do you do? I
am Fang ChenLe. Pleased to meet you."

Ling Xiao calmly narrows his eyes. Under his scrutiny, Fang ChenLe
actually smiles very freely. Of course this is when there is no
pressure. If Ling Xiao were to emit his power, even a hundred Fang
ChenLe wouldn't be able to withstand it.

You XiaoMo realizes that he has yet to introduce them to each other,
"Elder brother Ling, this is my Elder brother Fang ChenLe."

After a brief frown, Ling Xiao puts on an earnest look, saying like the
spring breeze: "How do you do? I had long heard Little brother
XiaoMo talk about you. Meeting you now, it's clear why you are the
outstanding disciple of Earth peak. I heard that you are already a
level four mage at such a young age. How admirable!"

185
"Not so. Lin brother is exaggerating. The number one talent of the
Warrior division. I should be the one to admire you." Fang ChenLe
smiles while nodding.

Even though he feels that the Lin Xiao in front of him now is different
from what he has heard, since this is the first time meeting him face
to face, there is no way for him to bring it up.

You XiaoMo had long grown accustomed to the phoniness of Ling

Xiao, changing faces at the drop of a hat and such. But this skill, he
didn't expect. Meeting for the first time, these two are praising each
other. You praise me once. I praise you once. Neither willing to fall
behind.

In the end, it is Fang ChenLe that stops the conversation saying that
he has something to do before leaving.

Right after Fang ChenLe walks away, Ling Xiao gives You XiaoMo a
cold look and huffs *hmph* before turning around and walks off.

Getting huffed at for no reason, You XiaoMo is momentarily stunned.

He quickly chases after him and only catches up when they reach his
room. Ling Xiao simply pushes open the door and walks in. He sits on
the chair stonily, not uttering a single word.

You XiaoMo has no idea why he is in such a bad mood. He closes the
door before walking over.

"Elder brother Ling, did the assignment not go well?" You XiaoMo
asks gingerly. Saying this, he steals a peek at his face. Seriously black
and forbidding. Who is the fool that angered him so? He should
know that this dude is very malicious. If he is to exact revenge, the

186
other party would be better off dead. As such, You XiaoMo's mind is
filled with the ten greatest tortures of the Qing dynasty. Of course,
he has no idea that the fool in question is himself.

"When I act, do you think that there is anything that I can't do?"

Hearing him bring up the assignment, Ling Xiao scoffs indignantly.

"Since the mission was successful, why are you angry?" You XiaoMo
asks curiously.

Seeing that he has no idea, Ling Xiao puts on a black face. Just when
he is about to open his mouth, You XiaoMo suddenly cries out.

"Ah, I know." After exclaiming, he immediately places two bottles in

his hands, "Elder brother Ling, I remembered what your disciple said.
These are five days worth of magic pills. I already refined them.
Would you like to count them?"

"You XiaoMo!" Ling Xiao suddenly calls his name softly.

"Here!" With a start, You XiaoMo unconsciously raises his hand, as if

giving his commanding officer a salute.

Seeing his sudden strange reaction, Ling Xiao almost loses his straight
face. But thinking about the scene he just witnessed at the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs, the flames of anger fire up again. Although in a
bad mood, he doesn't reveal it on his face, actually slightly smiling
while saying: "Seems you have quite a good relationship with that
Fang ChenLe. Laughing stupidly at him. Are you worried that you're
not stupid enough?"

The topic of conversation switches so quickly, You XiaoMo is almost

187
unable to keep up. Hearing him bring up Elder brother, he thinks
nothing of it and says: "Oh, you mean Elder brother ah. We are now
disciples under the same Master so our relationship is now a little
closer. Four days ago, the day that you left, Master Kong Wen called
me over and accepted me as his disciple. Elder brother is Master's
eldest disciple. So we can now be considered as disciples of the same
line."

But what does him smiling at Elder brother has to do with his brain?
Furthermore, he is also not stupid!

Kong Wen? At once Ling Xiao knows who this Kong Wen is. The
highest person in charge of Earth peak. Speaking of which, Fang
ChenLe is indeed Kong Wen's eldest disciple. This bit is stored in Lin
Xiao's memory.

Originally, Lin Xiao and Fang ChenLe do not have contact with each
other. It wouldn't be strange if he didn't know him but since Lin Xiao
is a man of ambition, he had long ago investigated the outstanding
disciples of the three peaks. Although not completely clear about
their situations, he still knows a thing or two about them. But
_______

"Even if you are brothers, you should not get too close. Your innate
talent is so lacking, Kong Wen must have some ulterior motive in
accepting you."

"Oh." You XiaoMo answers him dejectedly. Even though he has low
innate talent, there is no need to keep reminding him ma!

"Such a weak answer, did you not have breakfast today?"

"Ah, right." After speaking, he rubs his tummy. Not eating for several

188
days, he is really not quite used to this.

"......."

189
Chapter 42 - Consoling
After Ling Xiao leaves, You XiaoMo remembers that there is
something he hasn't done. Originally when he went to the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs, other than handing over the magic pills to Uncle
Zhao, he also wanted to apply to go down the mountain with Big
brother Wu Yan.

Each disciple is allowed to go down the mountain twice a month. You

XiaoMo has one time left this month. So he plans to use it up the day
after tomorrow. Because it will be the next month in a few days, if he
were to go later, he would get one less chance. Because they are
now disciples under the same master, Big brother Wu Yan grants him
permission without hesitation.

The next day, You XiaoMo tells this to Ling Xiao who had come to
look for him.

Hearing that he wants to go down the mountain, Ling Xiao doesn't

ask him what he plans to do. He just beams at him saying, "Just nice.
I also want to go down the mountain. We'll just go down the
mountain together tomorrow."

You XiaoMo really regrets telling him about it, "Didn't you just come
back yesterday? Why would you want to go down again?"

"That was an assignment from TianXin sect. Every month, the

disciples from the warrior division will go out for training. As an Elder
brother, I have to look after them a little. If not they might get killed
off after a day or two. If it wasn't to avoid attracting suspicion from
TianXin sect, I wouldn't have gone. But ________ listening to your
tone, could it be that you don't want to go down the mountain with

190
me?"

Ling Xiao doesn't hesitate to tell You XiaoMo about the assignment.
Afterall, it is not a top secret matter. But getting to the last point, his
tone becomes threatening.

You XiaoMo hurriedly waves his hand, "No, no, you're thinking too
much."

"Speaking of which, your mage division disciples will also be going for
training soon."

Ling Xiao suddenly changes the topic to the mage division.

"Ah, oh, I just entered the sect less than a month ago. Outside
training is probably not something I have to think about for a while.
Instead, there will be an entrance exam in five months. That is rather
troublesome. I heard that the passing requirement is refining a level
two magic pill. If not, one will be kicked out of TianXin sect."

Hearing Ling Xiao bring up the experience training, You XiaoMo

recalls the entrance exam. He has now refined twenty over types of
level one magic pills. But he still has not refined a level two magic pill
so he is a little uncertain. However, since there are still five months
left, he isn't too anxious. But he will occasionally think about how he
is now Kong Wen's disciple. If he were to fail the entrance exam,
wouldn't that cause people to make fun of his master and brothers?

Hearing his words that lack confidence, Ling Xiao laughs easily saying:
"Little brother, I think you're underestimating yourself ba."

You XiaoMo is stunned, not understanding the meaning of his words,

"What do you mean?"

191
Ling Xiao crosses his legs. His actions quite elegant, not the least bit
affected, as if this noble air is part of his nature. No matter from
which angle, one would feel that this is natural for him. He then lifts
up the teapot on the table and pours a cup of green tea. Because it
has just been infused, it is still a little hot. He takes a leisurely sip
before speaking.

"[Heavenly Soul Scroll] is a high grade alchemical technique. The

benefits it gives you can't be compared to low grade alchemical
techniques. If you practice it diligently, you wouldn't need half a year
to become a level two mage."

Actually you would be even stronger than mages of the same level.
Of course, he didn't tell him this.

"Really?" You XiaoMo lights up, especially that pair of gem-like eyes
inlaid in his face, sparkling brightly like crystals.

Ling Xiao glances at his overjoyed expression and immediately looks

away calmly, "There is no need to lie to you about this."

Regardless of whether Ling Xiao is trying to console him, You XiaoMo

admits that his mood is much improved. The pressure he felt inside is
much less than before.

That's right, even though Ling Xiao is very evil, always attacking him,
making fun of him, disrespecting him, he is actually very good to him.
Like the last time, knowing that he lacked alchemical techniques, he
found him one the next day. You XiaoMo doesn't say it but in his
heart he is actually very touched. Although it is most probably for the
sake of magic pills.

192
Early next morning, Ling Xiao comes over to look for him as
expected. Except that behind him are two people that You XiaoMo
are familiar with but can't wait to get away from.

193
Chapter 43 - Miscalculation
Walking in front is a young woman dressed in a set of pink traveling
clothes whose beauty and elegance is clear from afar. With smooth
and glossy skin, an oval face like a goose egg, paired with a pair of
large and beautiful eyes. Along with gentle curves, she is simply a
beauty that moves people. An unrivaled beauty through and
through. If her character was also as delightful as her outward
appearance, she would definitely be a well-loved super Mary Sue.

It's a pity that her character is completely unlike that of her outward
appearance. As pretty as she is, she is also somewhat crafty and
wilful, ordering everyone around with just a tilt of her chin. This
beautiful young woman is none other than Tang YunQi, the daughter
of TianXin sect's Grand Master. She is also the most beautiful woman
in TianXin sect. It is said that when she turned eighteen, quite a few
people came forward to ask for her hand. But Tang YunQi found
none of them to her liking as her heart is obviously fixed on Lin Xiao.

This bit is known by everyone in TianXin sect. Even You XiaoMo who
has only met her two or three times can tell. It only proves how
clearly she shows it.

The other person is the disciple who was squeezed out to another
winged-bird when You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao sat on the same
winged-bird the last time. This person has always looked at You
XiaoMo with hatred ever since the first time, as if he can't wait to
peel off his skin. He is clearly still brooding over what happened
before.

Seeing You XiaoMo looking at those two, Ling Xiao remembers that
those two are behind him. Without waiting for You XiaoMo to ask, he

194
simply explains: "Junior sister Tang and Junior brother Li also happen
to be on their way down the mountain. Knowing that I too will be
going down the mountain, the Grand Master asked me to bring them
with me, so that I can also keep an eye on them."

The corner of Ling Xiao's mouth start to curve upward upon

mentioning the last bit. Looks like he seems to be in a good mood.

You XiaoMo notices this act but his instinct tells him that Ling Xiao is
not in a good mood so it's better not to provoke him.

Speaking of which, yesterday he had just used this excuse. And now,
someone else used this excuse on him, what more a personal
request of the Grand Master. There is simply no way to refuse. It
would only be strange if he is in a good mood.

Tang YunQi obviously did not expect that the person going down
together with Ling Xiao would be You XiaoMo. Upon seeing him, she
asks bluntly: "Why is it you again?"

Well isn't that just how it is? He also doesn't wish to see her. It's just
that sometimes 'ape shit' is just like this. The more you don't want to
see that person, the more likely it is that that person will appear in
front of you.

You XiaoMo smiles awkwardly, not giving her an answer.

Tang YunQi dislikes this disciple that had just entered the sect not
too long ago. If not because of him, she wouldn't have lost face in
front of so many people the last time. If it wasn't because they are in
different peaks, she would have tormented him to death a long time
ago.

195
Since it's only four of them this time, they simply choose a winged-
bird that can seat five. Unexpectedly, Tang YunQi objects. She is used
to sitting on the big winged-birds so she feels that sitting on a small
bird is beneath her. But just a casual remark from Ling Xiao shuts her
up.

"Since you don't want to sit on this winged-bird, you can just sit on
another one with Junior brother Chen."

You XiaoMo looks at Tang YunQi with both sympathy and glee. Still
daring to provoke him at this crucial moment. This Junior sister Tang
is really brave!

Tang YunQi is worried that Elder brother will really chase her off onto
another winged-bird so she hastily denies: "There's no need for that
Elder brother. Really ....... taking a small winged-bird is actually good.
I don't mind, really. Don't ask me to take another winged-bird."

Actually she wanted to sit on the large bird in order to separate You
XiaoMo from Ling Xiao. What she didn't expect is that the latter
would instead chase them off.

"No no no, I should thank you for reminding me. Four people on a
winged-bird is too crowded. If something were to happen on the way
and someone were to fall off, what would we do? So, I have decided
that you should sit on another winged-bird with Junior brother Chen
ba. A little more space is better." Ling Xiao beams while saying.

"Elder brother." Tang YunQi stamps her feet. Her anger distorts her
mouth, but she still looks pretty.

"Junior brother Chen, for this trip, I have to trouble you to take good
care of Junior sister."

196
Ling Xiao doesn't care if he agrees. He dictatorially orders the Junior
brother who is showing some signs of delight.

For Tang YunQi, of course she doesn't want to be separated from

Ling Xiao. But for Junior brother Chen, he actually can't wait to share
the same space with Junior sister. Therefore, Ling Xiao's suggestion
gives him a huge opportunity. He just doesn't let it show on his face.

In the end, Tang YunQi is still unable to change Ling Xiao's decision.
She and Junior brother Chen were chased onto another winged-bird.
The latter very happy although his face only shows signs of fury.

On the winged-bird, You XiaoMo secretly looks back at Tang YunQi,

whose face is distorted in anger. He then looks back at Ling Xiao who
is mightily pleased with himself, with a face like the spring breeze.
Pouting, he is certain that Ling Xiao didn't think of this in the
beginning. If Tang YunQi didn't give him the inspiration, they would
probably all be on the same winged-bird at this time. This is what
they call being a victim of one's own brilliance.

Notes:
skin like congealed fat - smooth, soft, and glossy
melon seed face - oval face
Mary Sue - idealized character with extraordinary abilities
ape shit - homonym for fate
junior brother - somehow his name changed from Li to Chen

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Chapter 44 - Separate ways
HePing town is just as lively as before, not much different from the
last time. Because he is now familiar with HePing town, You XiaoMo
doesn't have to go one whole round, like he did the last time, to find
what he is looking for.

As for Tang YunQi and Brother Chen, they both actually have a
reason to come down the mountain. But it's not something big, just
helping to get some tea leaves for Grand Master Tang. Grand Master
Tang is a tea lover. But he only likes to drink a type of tea known as
immortal herb tea. Because the yield for the immortal herb tea is
very limited, even the biggest tea shop in HePing town would get not
even one jin of immortal herb tea each month. The tea shop owner
knows that TianXin sect would send someone over each month to
buy some so he simply sets it aside waiting for them to come pick it
up.

And so arises a point of divergence. That tea shop is on East street

whereas You XiaoMo wants to go to North street to sell magic pills.
Simply not on the same street.

You XiaoMo doesn't want them to know that he wants to go sell

magic pills, so he proposes that they split up. They go to East street
while he goes to North street.

At first this suggestion is just what Tang YunQi wants. She can't wait
to get You XiaoMo out of her sight. But the problem is Ling Xiao. He
chooses to go with You XiaoMo to North street leaving Tang YunQi to
go with Brother Chen to East street. They would meet up later at the
largest restaurant on West street. Tang YunQi is unwilling but she
already experienced how Ling Xiao's words can't be denied. Each

198
time he makes up his mind, it can't be changed. Ling Xiao is someone
that will do what he says.

Looking on helplessly as You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao walk away one at
the front, one following behind, Tang YunQi restrains herself so
much that her nails dig into her flesh to stop herself from chasing
after them. Chen GaoYang at her side although happy at having the
opportunity to be alone with Junior sister is still a little uneasy seeing
how upset she is. Moreover, isn't this just the chance to ingratiate
himself Junior sister?

"Junior sister, don't be angry. That You XiaoMo, even though he is

close to Elder brother, the both of them, one in Earth peak, one in
the Warrior division, they simply wouldn't be together normally.
Perhaps it won't be much longer before their relationship cools
down."

Tang YunQi scoffs *hmph*, saying with a clouded face: "Not in the
same division and Elder brother still goes to see him everyday.
Yesterday, as soon as Elder brother came back, he immediately
rushed over to Earth peak. Do you still think their relationship will
cool down? I had already heard that recently, Elder brother is always
going over to Earth peak, almost certainly to see You XiaoMo.

"It looks like Elder brother really has his heart set on that You
XiaoMo."

Chen GaoYang really has no idea just what is so good about You
XiaoMo to warrant such attention from Elder brother.

"Big brother Chen, do you have a way of teaching You XiaoMo a

lesson?" Tang YunQi asks hatefully.

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"This ....... I'm afraid won't be easy. I heard that four days ago,
Master Kong accepted him as his own disciple."

Chen GaoYang looks uncomfortable as Tang YunQi sees his helpless

expression. Inwardly calling him a good for nothing, but what he says
is not wrong. You XiaoMo is a disciple of Earth peak. And Kong Wen's
disciple on top of that. His current status is unique. If he was from
Heaven peak or Flying peak, she would have her ways of teaching
him a lesson. But he just has to be from Earth peak. Earth peak
disciples dislike Heaven peak and it goes both ways.

Unable to find a solution, the two of them decide to leave it for now
and first complete the task from the Grand Master before discussing
it further. They never expected that this trip to the West street will
almost cost them their lives.

On the other side, You XiaoMo doesn't take much time to find that
medicine shop. Not sure if he is mistaken, but You XiaoMo feels that
the shopfront looks a little newer than before. As if it has been
renovated.

Before he even enters the shop, the shop assistant near the door
shouts with glee towards the inside of the shop, "Boss, that Master
You is here!"

As soon as the words are out, the manager rushes out helter skelter,
almost tripping on himself. Seeing You XiaoMo, the manager
immediately becomes excited, rushing over saying: "Master You,
you're finally here. I have been waiting for you for many days."

You XiaoMo goes ?. What is going on?

After saying that, the shop manager realizes that he had lost control

200
of himself. He quickly puts on a smile and invites them in, at the
same time telling the shop assistant to serve some tea.

"Master You, the magic pills you sold me the last time really
exceeded my expectation. In less than two days, they were
completely sold out. Furthermore, customers have been coming non-
stop to ask about the next batch. But don't worry, I definitely did not
say anything about you."

The shop manager uncharacteristically winks at You XiaoMo. Upon

saying this, he notices Ling Xiao who came with him, asking: "This
distinguished guest is?"

Ling Xiao doesn't pay any attention to him, taking a sip of the tea
that the shop assistant had brought over.

You XiaoMo laughs awkwardly, "He is a friend of mine who came

along with me. You don't have to bother about him."

The manager immediately understands, and asks: "Master You, are

you here to sell magic pills again this time?"

"Yes."

You XiaoMo says while taking out the hundred magic pills he refined
in the past few days. Five bottles altogether. Each one containing
twenty level one magic pills. These were all refined in those four
days. The quality is definitely better than ordinary level one magic
pills.

The manager carefully picks up a bottle and opens the stopper.

Immediately a strong medicinal fragrance wafts out.

201
Notes:
jin - 500g
? - OMG

202
Chapter 45 - Bearded man
The magic pill transaction concludes without a hitch. Furthermore,
the price for these five bottles is even higher than the last time.
Because the effect of the magic pill far exceeds that of ordinary level
one magic pills, a few customers have indicated that one after
another that they are willing to pay a high price after having tasted
the sweetness. Although Long Xiao continent does not lack level one
magic pills, in fact, it is more like there is a flood of it bordering on
disaster, there is also an unending number of martial artists that
have a need for magic pills. As long as there is a better option, they
would rather pay a little more.

The manager made use of the magic pills that You XiaoMo sold him
the last time to boost his reputation so the shop now looks
completely different. But because he didn't know when You XiaoMo
would come again, he didn't dare to accept pre-orders. He only
agreed to let them be the first to know if more is available. Now,
even though there are only one hundred magic pills, it is enough for
the shop manager.

Because the selling price for these magic pills has doubled, the
manager kindly gives You XiaoMo a higher price. In this way, this
young man would most probably sell the magic pills to him ba. The
manager is operating based on this assumption. After all, there is
money to be earned and on top of that, the shop's reputation can be
raised, who wouldn't want to do that ah? The only troublesome
thing is that the surrounding shops have started to enquire about the
origin of these magic pills.

You XiaoMo leaves the shop perfectly content with the two thousand
pieces of gold that the manager had given him. This time the price

203
for the magic pills increased by fifty percent. Fifteen gold pieces for
one magic pill. One thousand five hundred gold pieces for one
hundred magic pills. Add to that the ten over pieces of gold
remaining from the last time, his entire wealth is more than that of a
lot of TianXin sect disciples. Even disciples from slightly wealthy
backgrounds do not have this much.

Ling Xiao doesn't hinder his selling of magic pills. Seeing that the
transaction is over, he leaves the medicine shop together with You
XiaoMo.

"Where to next?" Ling Xiao is not least bit impatient. His whole
person is unreadable, not giving away any sign of what he is thinking.

"Uh, Elder brother Ling, don't you also have something to take care
of? If you keep following me, wouldn't that hold up your business?"

You XiaoMo doesn't immediately answer his question. Instead he

looks evasively in all directions, everywhere except at Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao smiles slightly, "There's no hold up. Furthermore, it is still

early."

You XiaoMo is crestfallen. After this, he wants to go buy magic herb

seeds. But he definitely does not want Ling Xiao to go with him.
Because usually only mages with medicine gardens will buy magic
herb seeds. As for him, a newly minted level one mage, there is no
reason to buy so many magic herb seeds. Obviously something is
fishy. Someone as intelligent as Ling Xiao would definitely be able to
tell. So when the time comes, he will undoubtedly question him.

He had already predicted that Ling Xiao wouldn't abide by his wishes
and leave. But he still maintained a glimmer of hope. In the end, Ling

204
Xiao follows him to South street where they sell magic herbs.

South street is less lively than North street but there a still quite a lot
of people. A few of them are martial artists. Most of them are
mages.

Orchid pavilion is the magic herb shop that You XiaoMo visited the
last time. When You XiaoMo walks over, the attendant that served
him the last time seems to remember him. Seeing him come over, he
warmly receives him and invites him in, of course not forgetting Ling
Xiao that is by his side. In reality, the one that the attendant noticed
right away was not You XiaoMo but Ling Xiao.

For someone like him that works on commission, judging people is

important. With one glance, one can tell that the luxuriantly dressed
Ling Xiao is one of those privileged nobles with ten thousand strings
of coins in their money belt.

But because he is a previous customer, the attendant's attention falls

mainly on You XiaoMo. Hearing that he is here to buy more magic
herb seeds, the attendant swiftly takes out fresh stocks that just
arrived a few days ago. Level one to level three. All the seeds are
fresh and plump.

You XiaoMo thinks about the speed at which the magic herbs are
growing in his dimension. He also thinks about the considerable
amount of money in his magic bag. This time he buys a lot of magic
herb seeds in one go. He buys a set of one thousand seed packets for
level three. Two sets of one thousand seed packets for level two.
Altogether over eight hundred gold pieces. And so his money bag
shrinks by more than half. The good thing is the beaming attendant
gifts him one set of five hundred seed packets of level one magic
herb seeds.

205
Upon leaving Orchid pavilion, You XiaoMo looks painfully at the
money left in his magic bag. There's only seven hundred or so left.

But _______ You XiaoMo steals a glance at Ling Xiao. Unexpectedly,

he actually didn't ask him why he bought magic herb seeds.

"Elder brother Ling, I have bought all the things I needed to buy. Now
are we going to take care of your things or are we going to meet up
with Junior sister Tang and company at the rest house?

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes and looks at him. Staring at him until his
scalp starts to feel numb before saying leisurely: "Let's go to the rest
house first ba. After all, those two were brought here by me. If
anything were to happen, it would be difficult for me to explain to
the Grand Master."

Even though he puts it like that, You XiaoMo feels that there is no
sign of the difficulty he mentioned on his face.

Just as they were about to set out to West street, the crowd behind
them suddenly bursts out noisily, accompanied by a chaotic rush of
footsteps.

You XiaoMo turns to take a look and sees a group of people rushing
towards them. But the look on their faces is not one of alarm but
rather a look of curiosity after having heard some juicy news. This
type of expression is something You XiaoMo is used to seeing. The
look of wanting to witness something exciting.

The group of people rush past them towards East street. You XiaoMo
is not interested and is about to leave when he hears two street
vendors chatting.

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"I hear something is going down on East street."

"I heard it too. It seems there is again some conflict. The last time it
was at West street. This time it's at East street."

"Don't tell me it's the same group of people? They don't seem to
think much of TianXin sect ba. Although HePing is not inside the
limits of TianXin sect, it is still under its influence. Who is behind that
group of people, actually daring to stir up trouble here?"

"Who knows. But it must be someone big. No one dares to provoke

them. It's only that the girls of HePing are now in a wretched
situation."

"Exactly. The girls in my house are not allowed to go out, lest they
encounter that group of people."

"Haha, the girls from your house? There is still the question of
whether they would be interested."

"What do you mean ne?"

You XiaoMo's eyes pop out when he hears the last bit. If he isn't
mistaken, Tang YunQi and that Brother Chen seem to have gone to
East street. Thinking of this, he immediately turns to Ling Xiao, "Elder
brother Ling, how about we go take a look at East street first?"

If it really is what he is thinking of, things are bound to go to hell.

With Tang YunQi's character, the situation can only get worse and
worse.

Ling Xiao is not interested in finding out if the protagonist is Tang

207
YunQi. He only feels that she would bring him trouble. But since Tang
YunQi is the daughter of the Grand Master, he can't just stand aside.
Only this makes him go along with You XiaoMo towards East street.
South street is not very far from East street. But even leaving now, it
would take the time to brew two cups of tea to get there. Who
knows if in this short period of them, something irreversible would
happen. Because of this, Ling Xiao simply picks up You XiaoMo by his
collar and walks to a corner.

When they reappear, the both of them are already at East street.
You XiaoMo is all confused and dizzy, basically having no clue of what
just happened. Soon he is shocked back to his senses by a shrill
scream.

This familiar voice is something he can't forget even if he wants to.

It's what comes out of Tang YunQi's mouth. Turning towards the
direction of the voice, You XiaoMo's pair of eyeballs almost pop out
of their sockets. His face flushes bright red, glancing left and right,
not daring to look towards Junior sister Tang again.

The Tang YunQi now, it is really unimaginable that they had parted
ways not more than two hours ago. The pink long robe is missing a
huge piece of cloth revealing a pair of beautiful slender and fair legs.
The remaining piece of cloth barely covers her ample buttocks. The
top part is even more tragic. The material at the chest has been
ripped open, vaguely revealing soft white breasts. Most probably
because she feels extremely ashamed and furious, the exposed skin
is flushed pink. It can't be denied that the Tang YunQi now is even
more beautiful than before. Even more alluring.

All the men in the crowd are dumbstruck while the women are
looking on in admiration, jealousy and hate. A few of which are also
gloating in her misfortune.

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If there is anyone not moved by the beauty, there is most probably
only Ling Xiao. His face can't be any calmer. His gaze is definitely not
like the others looking lecherously at the barely clothed Tang YunQi.
Instead, it is directed at the bearded man facing Tang YunQi, calmly
narrowing his eyes. That man is the one that attacked Tang YunQi,
the lecher that tore her clothes to shreds. But he is definitely not an
ordinary lecher.

"Damn lecher. Disgracing me like this. Wait till my father finds out.
He will definitely set a thousand knives on you and hack you into ten
thousand pieces."

Tang YunQi is so furious that it distorts her pretty face. The intense
flames of hate in her eyes burns fiercely. If looks could kill, the man
in front of her would probably have died a million times over.

The man is not the least bit afraid of her threats, laughing out loud
instead. Licking his lips lewdly and wickedly, he says: "By the time
your father finds out, I'm afraid it would already be too late ba. By
that time you will already be mine. I advise you to obediently yield to
me. Perhaps the great me would be pleased and treat you a little
gentler."

"Evil lecher. My Elder brother is close by. If you dare to touch a single
hair on my Junior sister, my Elder brother will definitely not let you
go."

Chen GaoYang who is lying on the floor says hatefully. Earlier,

hearing this man humiliate Junior sister, he had fought this man but
was unable to beat him. If not, Junior sister would not be in such a
dire condition. On top that, the earlier scuffle severed both his legs
leaving him unable to even stand up.

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"Elder brother? Hmph!" The man laughs coldly. "Don't worry, if he
dares to appear in front of the great me, I will ....... "

"What will you do?"

A flippant voice emerges from the crowd, cutting him off.

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Chapter 46 - Unlucky You XiaoMo
Everyone looks towards the direction of the voice and sees a
handsome man stepping out from the crowd. The man's face is calm
and collected with a chiseled outline. Even though he is rather
expressionless, he still gives off an overwhelming force. A
resplendent white robe with a string of green jade at his waist. At a
glance, one would think of a noble rather than a martial artist.

You XiaoMo follows behind Ling Xiao but he doesn't dare to walk up
to the front. It's obvious that the bearded man is a martial artist. The
muscles on his body are extraordinary. If not, Chen GaoYang would
not be so helpless.

Without waiting for everyone to guess who Ling Xiao is, Tang YunQi
and Chen GaoYang exclaim happily 'Elder brother'. At this moment,
there is no longer any need for introduction. Everyone now knows
that this is the beautiful girl's knight in shining armor. When they first
heard them saying 'Elder brother', they had envisioned a fierce and
strong skilled person. Never did it cross their mind that it would be
some frivolous princely noble.

"Elder brother, you must take revenge for me. They tore my clothes.
Really too hateful!"

Seeing that her Elder brother has come, Tang YunQi is both surprised
and elated. She quickly runs up to him complaining shamefully and
furiously, her pretty face on the point of tears. Absolutely lovable
and charming.

Ling Xiao glances at her indifferently and frowns.

211
Seeing the situation, You XiaoMo quickly takes out a set of clothes
from his magic bag. Although the workmanship is nothing much, but
it's still better than clothes that fail to cover the body. Furthermore,
reputation is the most important thing for young maidens. Who
would expect that his one act of kindness would be met with a glare
from Tang YunQi. She then takes takes out a set of light yellow
clothes from her own magic bag and puts them on. Looking on in a
daze, You XiaoMo quietly puts his clothes back. If he had known that
she has her own clothes, he would have minded his own business.
But this woman is really strange. Since she had brought a set of
clothes in her magic bag, why didn't she bring them out
immediately? Really incomprehensible!

"So you're that Elder brother. You don't look like much. Little boy, I
advise you to be sensible and leave right now. If not, you will be the
next one lying on the ground." The bearded man looks Ling Xiao up
and down. When he heard those two talking with such confidence
before, he had thought that the so-called Elder brother would be a
powerful formidable foe. Instead it's a pretty boy, immediately
causing him to feel extreme disdain.

"There's no hurry. Let me ask a question before leaving."

Ling Xiao slowly starts to smile, looking at the bearded man in

amusement.

"Elder brother?"

Tang YunQi's eyes pop out in disbelief at Ling Xiao. She thinks she
must have misheard him. How could Elder brother withdraw from
the field of battle?

"Looks like you know your place!"

212
The bearded man snorts in satisfaction. He also thinks that Ling Xiao
is really afraid of him and is preparing to slink away in shame.

"How should I address you sir?" Ling Xiao asks casually looking
completely relaxed.

"I am Luo Shan. The cousin of the once in a hundred years rare talent
of QingCheng sect Luo ShuHe. If you have any sense, you will leave
behind the girl at your back. I may still leave you people some viable
options." Luo Shan says with immense pride.

Now everyone knows the reason why he dares to swagger through

the streets. With the backing of QingCheng sect, no wonder he is so
arrogant, snatching girls by force in the streets.

Speaking of QingCheng sect, its scale is about the same as TianXin

sect. But its resources and history is slightly inferior to TianXin sect.
That's why TianXin sect is in the number one position in Long Xiao
continent while QingCheng sect can only take second place.

But these few years, QingCheng sect's reputation has sprung up.
Announcing happy news one after another as if they are eager to let
everyone know. One of those things is related to the Luo ShuHe that
Luo Shan mentioned. He is also an outstanding talent from the
warrior division. Just like Ling Xiao. Both have had success in martial
arts field at a young age, leaders of the younger generation.

The second piece of news is that there is a high level mage in

QingCheng sect that can refine level nine magic pills. Level nine and
level ten magic pills is a high barrier that most high level mages
cannot pass. Even for large sects like QingCheng sect and TianXin
sect. Although they have many talented high level mages, the ones

213
that are really able to refine a level nine magic pill is still very few.
Such as You XiaoMo's master Kong Wen. He has made a name for
himself for many years but right now he can still only barely manage
to refine a level nine magic pill. The two high level mages of Heaven
peak and Flying peak are also the same.

As for QingCheng sect, the reason why they couldn't compare to

TianXin sect before is because they don't have a high level mage that
can refine level nine magic pills. Now, QingCheng sect has risen up a
level in strength signifying that they can now sit on the same table as
equals with TianXin sect. Luo Zhan daring to stir up trouble on the
outskirts of TianXin sect is most probably because of this.

But while others fear QingCheng sect, Tang YunQi as the daughter of
the Grand Master is not afraid.

"So what of QingCheng sect? I am the daughter of the Grand Master

of TianXin sect, Tang YunQi. Let me tell you, there is no way this will
end like this!"

The crowd immediately erupts in an uproar. Isn't this just a little too
dramatic? Before, a lot of people were still discussing the situation
between QingCheng sect and TianXin sect. After all, one mountain
can't hold two tigers. Who would have thought that the disciples
from the two sects would clash in the streets of little HePing town.
Furthermore, one is the daughter of the Grand Master and the other
is the cousin of Luo ShuHe, both of equally high status.

No one notices that upon hearing these words, a ray of black light
flashes across Luo Shan's eyes.

"Luo Shan, do your words and actions represent that of QingCheng

sect?"

214
Among the clamoring voices, Ling Xiao's indifferent voice cuts across
like a flash of ice cold in the middle of summer.

The group of people standing around immediately quiets down. Even

Luo Shan looks across at him in surprise. After understanding what
he said, he raises his chin arrogantly, "My position is of course the
position of QingCheng sect."

"I see. Great! Great!" Ling Xiao smiles slightly while saying great
twice.

Before anyone can figure out what 'great' refers to, Ling Xiao flings
his sleeves towards Luo Shan. The latter suddenly lets out a horrible
scream and is flung back. This hit is not slight. The strong as an ox
Luo Shan flies back five meters like a rag. When he climbs back up,
both his eyes have changed to pitch black empty sockets. The whites
of the eyes seems to have disappeared into the sockets. Looking
directly at him will numb one's skull.

"Heavens, isn't that a demon? How can Luo Shan turn into a
demon?"

All of a sudden, panic-stricken screams rise up from the onlooking

crowd, followed by even more sounds of violent gasps of shock.
Many of their faces start to pale. One after another rushing
backwards in fear. Some of them fall to the ground from excess
haste, and get stepped on, including the unlucky You XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo was originally standing behind Ling Xiao but Tang YunQi
squeezed him away when she came over. Gentlemen don't fight with
women, so You XiaoMo moves a little further away from Ling Xiao.

215
Who would have thought that the crowd would suddenly panic. A
few people while rushing back out of fear kept pushing him back and
back. In the end, someone tripped him, causing him to fall to the
ground. Before he could scramble back up, the out of control crowd
steps on his right leg ....... *kacha*, You XiaoMo clearly hears the
sound of his bone cracking. Crocodile tears almost squeeze out from
the corners of his eyes.

Right at this moment, someone grips him by the wrist and pulls him
up. Then You XiaoMo feels his head fall onto a warm broad chest. A
refined voice comes from above his head.

"Idiot! You can even fall down while standing. I really wonder how
you managed to live until now!".

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Chapter 47 - Secret exposed
You XiaoMo looks up and sees Ling Xiao frowning at him. Just when
he is about the speak, Tang YunQi shrieks and runs towards them in a
panic.

Looking over Ling Xiao's shoulder, You XiaoMo sees Luo Shan
struggling to stand up. At this time, his outward appearance is
completely different from before. His skin was originally dark yellow
but now it is covered in a layer of blackish-grey. The ten nails on his
ten fingers are two inches long and appear black. The body is half a
meter taller than before. The muscles bulge out and break through
his clothes. Where is the appearance of Luo Shan? This is obviously a
demon!

You XiaoMo has never heard of demons. So he is not really clear why
people are calling Luo Shan a demon. Furthermore they are acting as
if they are looking at the devil.

"What happened to that guy?" You XiaoMo shrinks into Ling Xiao's
arms as he asks.

There's no helping it. He really doesn't want to be so useless. But his

right leg is already injured. The people around are all in a panic. If he
were to rush out, his other leg would probably also get trampled on
and broken. He doesn't want to have come down the mountain
walking and go back in a stretcher.

"Demon."

Ling Xiao turns around and looks at Luo Shan who is walking towards
them.

217
"How did it turn out like this? Isn't he QingCheng sect's man? How
did he turn into a demon?" You XiaoMo asks while gulping.

"Heh, that you'll have to ask him."

Ling Xiao smiles slightly, yet a hint of contempt appears in his eyes.
Inferior beings are inferior beings. And yet he dares to fan the flames
of disorder in his presence. A copper colored flying sword appears in
his hand.

"Who are you actually? Actually able to see my real nature."

The demon Luo Shan stops three meters away from Ling Xiao.
Although his eyes are completely black, it still can be seen that he is
afraid of Ling Xiao.

"The stink on your body is so foul, is there any need to even look?"

Ling Xiao says unhurriedly, his voice as gentle as jade, extremely

pleasant to the ear. Except that there is someone who upon hearing
feels his head burn in anger that he almost charges over.

"But, since the nephew of the Grand Master of QingCheng sect is a

demon, doesn't that mean that the whole clan is also made up of
demons ba?"

The demon Luo Shan smiles sinisterly. The pupils of eyes his slowly
condense into red dots, the most obvious outer characteristic of
demons. As such, the crowd standing around looking on immediately
recognize him for what he is when they see that appearance.

He doesn't answer Ling Xiao's question. Instead, he leaps onto the

218
roof and after gaining his footing, looks down at them from above.
He extends both his arms and laughs darkly, "Sooner or later, Long
Xiao continent will be the territory of demons. As for all of you, you
will soon become our slaves!"

Saying that, the demon Luo Shan turns to leave. Since there is no
way of winning this fight, he can only escape. His speed is extremely
fast, almost covering a thousand meters in a flash, his body engulfed
in a black cloud.

Ling Xiao lifts the flying sword in his hand and breathes on the blade.
He then sends the flying sword away in the direction of the fleeing
demon Luo Shan.

You XiaoMo just catches sight of his actions but before he can ask,
the flying sword disappears, no longer visible to the naked eye.

Even though the demon Luo Shan left, the news that a demon
appeared in HePing town spreads in a day. If Luo Shan is a regular
martial artist, most of the big sects would just send their disciples to
encircle and suppress Luo Shan. But he is clearly a disciple of
QingCheng sect and a nephew to the Grand Master at that, changing
the significance altogether.

Speaking of the word demon, there is not one martial artist that
would be unaffected. They do not form a sect but they can be
considered as living in a group. Much like martial artists, forming an
independent faction in Long Xiao continent.

Demons are based in the north. The north is formed by unbroken

mountain ranges, a good place for demons to hide. Therefore,
martial artist won't normally go to the northern mountain ranges
casually, because they can encounter demons at any time. The lucky

219
ones will leave with life endangering injuries. The unlucky ones will
have their life force completely sucked out, turning into a human
shell. Therefore, demons and martial artists are mortal enemies that
cannot live under the same sky. Much like the relationship between
cats and mice.

After the demon Luo Shan left, everyone no longer has the mood to
stroll about. The surprise appearance of a demon in HePing town
cannot be kept hidden. After all, who knows whether the demons
will come again. In order to protect their little lives, most people no
longer have the wish to stay. Many shops immediately become
deserted.

Tang YunQi suggests that they return to TianXin sect immediately.

But Ling Xiao uses You XiaoMo's injury as a reason to follow the
original plan. So he lets her go back first to notify the Grand Master.
He is very firm on this. Moreover, both of Chen GaoYang's legs are
also injured, not able to move easily. Tang YunQi has no choice but
to return first to TianXin sect.

Ling Xiao arranges a room for Chen GaoYang before returning to his
own room to check on You XiaoMo. You XiaoMo is sitting on a chair
with his injured leg resting on another chair. The injury on his leg has
been treated, wrapped in gleaming white bandages, looking a little
swollen.

Because it is a fracture, he can't move about for the time being. He

needs to rest for some time before it gets healed, but that is under
normal circumstances. Since he has nothing to do, You XiaoMo can
only wait for Ling Xiao while drinking the steaming hot tea that had
just been delivered by the rest house attendant.

Hearing the door open, there is no need to look to know that it is

220
Ling Xiao. You XiaoMo quickly and eagerly pours another cup of tea.

"Elder brother Ling, how are Brother Chen's injuries?"

You XiaoMo offers him the tea and asks.

Ling Xiao takes the tea and raises an eyebrow at him, "Why are you
so concerned about him?"

You XiaoMo is rendered speechless momentarily. He's only making

conversation, nothing more. He's not really concerned about him,
someone that always gives him a nasty look, and always plotting
against him with Tang YunQi. He would have to eat to the point of
bursting before getting concerned over him. After all, he is no
goddess of the white lotus flower.

"I'm only asking. What about that demon Luo Shan ne?"

Seeing that he is displeased, You XiaoMo can only change the topic.
He is also very curious to know where the flying sword ended up.

"Him?" Ling Xiao snorts mockingly, "Dead."

"How can it be?"

You XiaoMo can't help raising his voice. This news is too sudden. Not
even two hours after he escaped and he is already dead?

"Do you think the flying sword I sent out is a herbivore?"

Ling Xiao's elegant brows twitch as if he is annoyed at his doubt.

You XiaoMo almost spurts out his the tea in his mouth. Wiping the

221
corner of his mouth and explaining: "Of course your flying sword is
not a herbivore. It's just a little unexpected, that's all."

From the day they first met, You XiaoMo already knows that Ling
Xiao is not a herbivore. Able to casually kill Lin Xiao and take his
place, how can he be a herbivore? Most probably ordinary fish and
meat are also unable to satisfy his appetite.

"You XiaoMo, you have the time to worry about others, why don't
you worry about yourself?"

Ling Xiao suddenly narrows his eyes, his penetrating eyes revealing a
domineering attitude, with a hint of questioning. His voice
simultaneously filled with a teasing tone, as if he is cracking a joke.

You XiaoMo doesn't understand what he means, lowering his head

to look at his injured right foot, "Uh, I don't quite understand." What
is there to concern myself with.

Ling Xiao sees him acting dumb but doesn't get angry. He takes a sip
of the tea and says like the gentle breeze and light clouds: "Isn't
there something good in those bottles hidden in your magic bag?
Pouring it on your wound, wouldn't it make you heal faster?"

This time You XiaoMo is unable to contain it. A mouthful of tea

sprays over the whole table. Before he manages to wipe his mouth,
he almost blurts out 'How did you know?'. Luckily he quickly thinks
that maybe Ling Xiao is referring to the magic pills he refined. After
all, other than those few bottles of lake water, his magic bag is filled
with all sorts of bottles.

You XiaoMo doesn't dare to look at Ling Xiao anymore. He tilts his
head wracking his brains looking for an excuse. What to do ah, what

222
to do ah? Although there are many bottles in his magic bag, but they
are all empty. The bottles containing magic pills he had already sold
them this morning. Other than the Fasting magic pill, but Ling Xiao
also knows this so he definitely can't get it past him.

Ling Xiao also doesn't rush him. Seeing that he doesn't dare to look
at him, he calmly asks: "How is it? Have you thought of a good
excuse to fool me?"

You XiaoMo's cerebrum immediately crashes. These words obviously

mean that he already knows.

"How did you find out?" You XiaoMo forces himself to ask. Even if he
is to die, he wants to die knowing. He has clearly been so careful,
never taking it out in his presence.

Ling Xiao fiddles with the cup in his hand, looking at him with a vague
smile.

"Are you taking the great me for an illiterate fool? A newly minted
probationary disciple, one lacking innate talent, actually able to
refine over one hundred magic pills in a day, uninterrupted at that. If
not for some secret trick, only a fool would think it's possible."

You XiaoMo's jaw almost drops to the floor. Looks like this is the
reason. But only after his warning does You XiaoMo realize just how
much he had inadvertently revealed in front of Ling Xiao.

"Furthermore, your complexion is a little too rosy."

Ling Xiao suddenly leans towards him, extending his hand to stroke
his cheek. Really very tender and smooth.

223
You XiaoMo's cheek immediately flushes red .......

224
Chapter 48 - Magic water dimension
"My my my ....... rosy face, what has it got to do with that?"

You XiaoMo stammers, the sudden attack on his cheeks almost

scares him.

Ling Xiao straightens up. Looking at his frightened expression, he still

doesn't feel that he did anything inappropriate. After looking him up
and down, he says: "Which mage after four days of seclusion won't
come out looking on the point of death? Unless it's a high level
mage. Which mage of your level would come out with a face that is
glowing with health?"

You XiaoMo immediately rubs his cheek reflexively. He really didn't

pay attention to this point. He usually doesn't practice together with
his brothers. So there is no way for him to compare. That's why he
doesn't know whether his condition is normal or abnormal.

Now, after Ling Xiao brings up this point, he finally understands.

Although he strives to be as low key as possible everyday, his actions
are so high profile that it can't be any higher. Based on his ability to
refine over a hundred magic pills a day, that alone is enough to show
that something is up with him. You XiaoMo finally understands why
Kong Wen would suddenly accept him as his disciple.

"Confession begets leniency, resistance begets tyranny. Choose one."

Ling Xiao simply tosses him a choice.

A war between heaven and man is being waged in You XiaoMo's

mind. Hearing these words, his expression immediately becomes

225
conflicted. Is there really a choice? Although You XiaoMo doesn't
know how tyrannical Ling Xiao can be, he doesn't want to find out,
not even a little bit. So he can only fess up and ask for leniency.

After making his decision, You XiaoMo takes out the three bottles
filled with lake water from his magic bag. There were originally five
but he had used up two of them, so he is left with three. They are
filled to the brim and undiluted so there is abundant spiritual energy.

"This is water that can restore the soul force as well as physical
strength. During the four days of seclusion, I relied on this ....... "

You XiaoMo pushes the three bottles of water in front of Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao opens one of the bottles. A whiff of concentrated spiritual

energy immediately assails his nostrils, "What kind of water is this?"

You XiaoMo hangs his head, "I don't know myself. I only know that
drinking this, the dried up soul force will be restored to abundance.
Physical strength will also be restored. Very convenient and very
effective. So when I refine magic pills, I will drink some of it."

"This water, where did you get it?"

Ling Xiao asks flatly. He can feel that the magic water in the bottles
contain a very high amount of spiritual energy. As if the spiritual
energy has been condensed to an extreme degree such that it
condenses from gaseous form into liquid form. If this is the case, the
secret hidden in You XiaoMo's body is no ordinary secret.

You XiaoMo looks at him with a complicated expression. He finally

curls up his lips sadly and grasps his hand.

226
Just when Ling Xiao is surprised at his action, he suddenly feels a
spatial distortion. It's only an instant, and he discovers that he and
You XiaoMo are now in another dimension. Strong scent of green
grass. Blue sky and white clouds. A rather large lake in the distance.
The lake water is a milky white yet crystal clear. It's just that under
the blue sky, it appears dark blue like jade.

Other than that, there is a large patch of flourishing and luxuriant

magic herbs next to the lake. From level one to level three. The level
three magic herbs probably need a few more days to reach maturity.
But the level two and level one are already mature. A competing riot
of colors swaying away.

You XiaoMo steals a glance at Ling Xiao. Surprisingly there is not

even a little sign of astonishment.

Ling Xiao seems to notice his little action. A light smile blooms on his
expressionless face. He says warmly, "What are you looking at ne?"

"Nothing, I'm not looking at anything!" You XiaoMo quickly shakes

his head. Smiling so warmly, he knows that something is coming. It's
better for him to not say anything at this point.

Ling Xiao walks towards the field of magic herbs and simply sits down
on the chair that You XiaoMo usually takes a rest on. Arranging his
clothes, he calmly says: "You XiaoMo, do you want to explain this
yourself or do you want me to ask you one by one?"

You XiaoMo's heart immediately goes *ge deng*. Hearing his

princely tone, it's obvious that his anger has not yet dissipated.

227
Chapter 49 - Take off your clothes
So, You XiaoMo explains how he discovered the blue teardrop in full
detail. After all, his biggest secret is already laid out in front of Ling
Xiao. It doesn't matter whether he tells him or not so he might as
well tell him everything from beginning to end.

Actually, the process is not at all complicated since he himself

doesn't know how the blue teardrop appeared on his chest. He's
even more clueless on the magical nature of the lake water. So he
finishes the explanation in just a few words. After speaking, You
XiaoMo secretly observes Ling Xiao's face. Wuh, no change at all .......

"You mean that blue teardrop appeared when you were taking a
bath? Then it didn't appear when you were taking a bath before?"

The great Ling Xiao is not so easily fooled. Right away he zeroes in on
You XiaoMo's weak point. This question, even he himself doesn't
know the answer. Actually, You XiaoMo himself is not sure if the blue
teardrop on his chest appeared when he was taking a bath, because
at that time, he had just come to this world, so everything is in a
blur. After all, it's not as if he would have immediately taken off his
clothes for no particular reason to see if had any birthmarks or such
things on his chest. So there are two possibilities. The first is that the
blue teardrop already existed on the original You XiaoMo before he
died. The second is that it only appeared after he transported over.

But, the transportation of his soul is You XiaoMo's biggest secret. He

can let Ling Xiao know about the blue teardrop but this he can't tell.
The reason why is because he and Ling Xiao have not reached the
level of closeness for him to share such an important secret with
him.

228
"I also don't know what the deal is. I just know that it suddenly
appeared that day. It may not have anything to do with taking a
bath."

You XiaoMo has a certain characteristic. If he doesn't want to say

something, even if you beat him to death, he still wouldn't say it. He
also won't say it clearly to avoid selling himself out, so he would
frequently give ambiguous alternatives. Once you get to know him
more, you would discover this habit.

But Ling Xiao has not known him for long. He also believes that You
XiaoMo wouldn't dare to lie to him so he believes his words.

"Come here."

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes and beckons him with his finger.

You XiaoMo hesitates for a moment before walking apprehensively

over to him. Because he feels guilty, he doesn't dare to look directly
at Ling Xiao.

"Take off your clothes."

Ling Xiao simply orders him when he comes up to him.

"Ah? Take off my clothes?"

You XiaoMo reflexively grips the front of his collar, looking at Ling
Xiao in terror.

"Little brother, do you not understand what I'm saying or do you

want me to help you take it off ng?"

229
Ling Xiao thinks that he is playing dumb, his tone a little displeased. It
doesn't cross his mind that there would a problem between males.

You XiaoMo shivers and considers between he himself taking it off or

letting Ling Xiao help him take it off. He finally chooses the former.
The clothes on his body is still one of the sets he had before. Very
simple and of ordinary material. Because the weather is not cold, he
doesn't have much on. No matter how much he dawdles, it still
doesn't take much time before he takes off his shirt. The small and
thin body is clear and fair. Washed by the magic water, it becomes
even more sparkling and translucent. His flesh is smooth and
glistening. Even more smooth and tender than a newborn baby.
Maybe because he feels a little embarrassed, a pink flush starts to
spread across You XiaoMo's upper body. Everything above his neck
had turned bright red a long time ago.

Ling Xiao doesn't notice his awkwardness. He is completely absorbed

by the blue teardrop on his chest. The radiance of the blue teardrop
is even more brilliant than what You XiaoMo observed before,
extremely fascinating. If you stare directly at it, it would seem as if
you have entered a dreamlike fantasy world. But this does not apply
to Ling Xiao. After staring at it for quite a while, there is still no
change in his expression.

"Elder brother Ling, is there anything wrong with this teardrop?"

You XiaoMo asks with a red face.

Letting a man stare at one's chest, even though both sides don't have
any particular intentions, it would still make one feel uncomfortable,
especially for the thin-skinned You XiaoMo.

230
Ling Xiao raises his head and glances at him. His ambiguous gaze
roams over his fair and clear body. He then says lightly: "It's a very
peculiar dimension. Someone must have left it intentionally on your
body, only to be opened when the proper time comes."

"Who can it be?"

You XiaoMo exclaims in astonishment.

If the person had evil intentions, wouldn't this teardrop be a pre-

determined time-bomb?

"No matter who it is, for that person to put such a valuable thing
inside your body, it wouldn't make sense if it's not someone close to
you. There are benefits but there are also corresponding dangers."

Ling Xiao seems to know immediately what he is thinking of.

"What are the dangers?"

You XiaoMo frowns with a sad face. He knows that there is no such
thing as a free lunch in this world.

Ling Xiao leans over to him, smiling slightly: "Think about it yourself.
If people find out that you have such an unfair advantage, not only
can it be used to grow magic herbs, it can also expedite their growth,
when that happens, how many of them will go crazy over it? Even for
the number one large sect TianXin sect, they would probably take it
away forcibly for themselves and kill you off to silence you!"

The last part was said extremely sweetly. You XiaoMo can actually
feel an invisible hand squeezing his neck.

231
He cries out in dismay: "Then what should I do ah? Elder brother
Ling, *wu wu*, I don't want to die."

Ling Xiao snorts *pu chi*, and roars in laughter while looking up to
the sky.

Notes:
count by fives and tens - systematically and in full detail

232
Chapter 50 - Deal
The cowardly, afraid of getting into trouble, and weak You XiaoMo,
Ling Xiao never liked this type of people. But unexpectedly not only
does he not detest You XiaoMo, he actually finds the him that is this
way very lovable, so much so that he sometimes can't stop himself
from teasing him, deriving great pleasure from it.

"Little brother, if you don't want to die, you have to listen to me

obediently, understand?"

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his mouth and says in delight.

You XiaoMo immediately nods his head as if he's pounding garlic.

Now, his life is already in his hands. Even if he doesn't understand
_______ he still has to pretend to understand!

Ling Xiao stands up and walks a few steps. He turns back towards
You XiaoMo that is following his every move: "From now on, don't let
anyone besides me see the blue water drop on your chest. This is
very important. Understand?"

"Understand!"

You XiaoMo nods his head vigorously. Although he very much wants
to tell him that it's not a blue water drop but a blue teardrop, after
thinking it over for a bit, he decides to let that rot in his stomach.
After all the shape of a water drop and teardrop are pretty much the
same.

"Also, the magic herbs planted in this dimension. When the time
comes, you can take out a few but not too much to avoid attracting

233
the attention of observant people. Furthermore, the reason why you
can refine over a hundred magic pills in a day is due to the effect of
the lake water. If an observant person wants to investigate you,
sooner or later they will find out that something is not right. So from
today onwards you must not overdo it."

Ling Xiao instructs him word by word with a serious tone that he has
never used before.

You XiaoMo also knows how important it is so he agrees to all of

them. After committing all these to memory, You XiaoMo suddenly
thinks of another issue and asks hastily: "Elder brother Ling, can I still
drink that magic water?"

Ling Xiao thinks it over briefly, "Yes, but you must not hand over the
magic pills too early. You should at least wait one or two days."

There's no need for a detailed explanation, You XiaoMo knows what

he means. The last time, he took one thousand and two hundred
magic herbs and finished them off in four days. This speed is really
too fast. For a disciple with his innate talent, it is quite abnormal.

After going through all the details, Ling Xiao casts his gaze on the
large field of magic herbs in front. The colorful magic herbs are
growing quite well, quite unlike those the original Lin Xiao had seen
before. The ones that Lin Xiao had seen were the magic herbs of
Heaven peak. Because he is the elder disciple of the Grand Master
and because Tang YunQi is the daughter of the Grand Master, so
based on this relationship, Lin Xiao is rather close to Heaven peak.
Before, when he visits Heaven peak, the disciples and seniors did not
treat him cautiously just because he is from the warrior division. But
this may no longer be the case now.

234
Recently, the rumors that he is very close to You XiaoMo is very
rampant. On top of that, You XiaoMo is now a direct disciple to Kong
Wen. It's hard to say if there will be those that read more into it. But
Ling Xiao has not gone over to Heaven peak for some time so he
doesn't know if those people have changed they attitude towards
him.

"The area of this land in this dimension is quite large. Are you
planning on using that piece of land to grow magic herbs?"

Ling Xiao surveys the dimension. The area of this dimension is

actually not considered small. Just that small lake is as big as Heaven
peak.

"No, I actually plan to use the whole area to plant magic herbs. But,
uh, there's too many weeds, I still haven't finished clearing them."

You XiaoMo lowers his head, his cheeks blushing shamefully. It has
already been ten days but he only has one pair of hands. His time is
usually spent refining magic pills, basically leaving him with no spare
time to weed. On top of that, he was in seclusion for four days
before this, not even having the time to harvest the mature magic
herbs, let alone weeding.

"Given your efficiency, you may not even finish it in a year's time."
Ling Xiao says indifferently, glancing at him.

You XiaoMo can't refute it. This dimension is so big. It is true that he
may not be able to clear all the weeds in a year's time. Thinking it
over, he then asks cautiously: "Then do you have any ideas?"

A gentle smile like the spring breeze suddenly blooms on Ling Xiao's
face, "Not just anyone can get the great me to lend a hand."

235
You XiaoMo pouts, "How many magic pills do you want?"

"Twenty. And the best kind." Ling Xiao says without the slightest bit
of shame.

You XiaoMo grimaces. He knew it wouldn't be a small demand.

Twenty magic pills, of the best quality at that. With his current
ability, it would probably take a day. Luckily the magic herbs in his
dimension is already mature. This way, he wouldn't have to
continuously go to the Hall of Enchanted Herbs to get magic herbs.
He also doesn't have to hand over half so it will save him quite a bit
of time.

In the end, You XiaoMo exchanges twenty top quality level one
magic pills for Ling Xiao's effort.

Then a shocking scene unfolds. From where did he conjure up

tornadoes? Several small tornadoes appear out of thin air, and
purposefully wreaks havoc in the dimension. Everywhere they go, all
the weeds are uprooted. You XiaoMo doesn't even need to further
prepare the land. In under an hour, other than where they are
standing, and that field of magic herbs, every other inch appears to
have met with some disaster, in a complete mess .......

236
Chapter 51 - Uncle Pu Chan
After explaining all the details about the dimension, there is one
thing that troubles You XiaoMo. That thing is related to the
dimension. Just like what Ling Xiao said, the blue teardrop is a an
extremely valuable treasure. Even TianXin sect would be intrigued.
Why was there not the slightest reaction from him? Under normal
circumstances, shouldn't he just kill him and snatch it? This type of
thinking is a little unfair to himself but You XiaoMo can't help but
think this way.

But right up to the time they both leave the dimension, Ling Xiao
doesn't bring up the matter. This finally lets him feel a little relieved.

Because there are still a lot things happening outside, they can't stay
too long in the dimension. After Ling Xiao sets the tornadoes free
and clears up all the weeds in the dimension, they both leave the
room. In order to not attract attention, You XiaoMo doesn't use the
magic water to heal his injured leg.

Not long after they both go out, a big group from TianXin sect
arrives. They are disciples from the warrior division. The leader is a
senior. His beard and hair is interspersed black and white. Seems he
is not young but his eyes frequently emit rays of light. This person is
Lin Xiao's senior, Uncle Pu Chan. He is also the Grand Master's
disciple. He is very shrewd but he is also notoriously harsh.

Seems Tang YunQi is quite fast. Immediately notifying her father

upon returning.

Tang Fan takes this issue of demons very seriously. Furthermore it

appeared in HePing town. When TianXin sect disciples apply for

237
leave, most of the time it is to head down to HePing town. So in
order to protect the safety of the disciples, this issue must be treated
seriously. So he immediately sends his own trusted subordinate.

Pu Chan is this trusted subordinate of Tang Fan. Putting aside his

shrewdness and harsh nature, the reality is, he listens and follows
Tang Fan's words to the letter.

This trip, bringing people down the mountain, Pu Chan operates in

his usual style. He simply directs his people to surround HePing town.
Although the demon Luo Shan had escaped, it doesn't necessarily
mean that his comrades are not still hiding in HePing town. Only
after doing this does Pu Chan head towards the rest house.

At this time, Ling Xiao and You XiaoMo have already left the
dimension. Just as they are chatting about trivial matters, the room
door is forcefully pushed open from outside.

It's the arrival of Pu Chan. He is always abrupt when dealing with the
juniors, with a haughty manner. On top of that, he never holds back
when he speaks so a lot of disciples don't like to deal with him,
including the original Lin Xiao. He was also quite fed up with him but
he would never reveal it because Pu Chan is Tang Fan's most trusted
disciple.

"Lin Xiao, tell me in full detail how you discovered the demon."

Pu Chan is very strong, tough and stocky, with a beard that

completely covers his face. Upon walking in, he completely blocks up
the door leaving no way for the people behind him to enter.

But he is really rude. In You XiaoMo's memory, when people meet

Ling Xiao, they are always respectful and courteous. This is first time

238
seeing someone so arrogantly ordering Ling Xiao. He steals a look at
Ling Xiao. He seems to be smiling too brilliantly .......

Upon seeing that, You XiaoMo immediately lowers his head.

Ling Xiao doesn't immediately reply. He lifts up the cup of tea that
You XiaoMo had poured for him, taking a leisurely sip as if enjoying
the light breeze and cloudless skies. Somewhat like being unmoved
by the impending collapse of Mt. Tai. Only after Pu Chan frowns and
is about to explode does he open his mouth.

"Uncle Pu, you should ask this to Brother Chen. He is clearer about
this than me."

You XiaoMo can't help grinning. Luckily his head is bowed down.

The thick black brows of Pu Chan draw tight. He obviously did not
expect that the response he waited for would be these few words. If
it wasn't Lin Xiao in front of him, he would have certainly flipped out.
Too bad. Pu Chan snorts derisively before turning around to leave. As
for the You XiaoMo seated next to Ling Xiao, from the beginning to
end, he was completely ignored. Probably You XiaoMo himself
doesn't realize, but this is the first time his low profile plan succeeds.

"Elder brother Ling, do you think the demons will stay in HePing
town?"

After Pu Chan leaves, You XiaoMo opens his mouth and asks. He
feels that Pu Chan doesn't have to take such drastic measures. Since
demons and martial artists are natural enemies, after Luo Shan's
identity was exposed, the other demons would definitely not stay
behind. Even if they do, it doesn't mean they would be found out,
otherwise, Luo Shan's identity would have been exposed long ago.

239
"Hmph, it's just posturing for others to see." Ling Xiao says derisively.

You XiaoMo nods his head seeming to understand. In fact, after such
a serious event, if TianXin sect doesn't conduct an investigation, it
would probably have a negative affect on HePing town. Upfront,
HePing town is not in the territory of TianXin sect. But in reality, the
power behind HePing town is TianXin sect. That's why the
appearance of a demon must be investigated, if only as an act to
reassure the people.

As Ling Xiao said, Pu Chan is only here to make some rounds. After
finding out the details from Chen GaoYang, he sends people to chase
after the demon Luo Shan. But they are doomed to return empty
handed.

As for Ling Xiao and company, since they have nothing to do with
what happens next, and since they have bought what they came for,
they simply took the winged bird back to TianXin sect that very day.

Because of his leg injury, You XiaoMo doesn't head to the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs to collect magic herbs in the next few days in order
to keep up appearances. During that time, Fang ChenLe comes to
visit him, bringing with him Kong Wen's words of concern.

Notes:
back of a tiger, waist of a bear - tough and stocky.
Mt. Tai - sacred mountain in China

240
Chapter 52 - Grand plan
The appearance and disappearance of demons caused a sensation in
Long Xiao continent. After that incident, You XiaoMo remained inside
Earth Peak, so he doesn't know much about what is happening
outside. But he hears some disciples discussing the matter.

It is said that TianXin sect linked up with other sects to pressure

QingCheng sect to account for what happened. After all, Luo Shan is
indeed the nephew of the Grand Master of QingCheng sect.
Furthermore, his transformation happened in front of many people.
While the transformation took place, his facial features did not
change much so that negates the rumor that it was an impostor of
Luo Shan.

The Grand Master of QingCheng sect, Luo ChengYuan also never

considered that his own nephew could actually be a demon. But
after a thorough investigation, a shocking secret is uncovered.

Luo ChengYuan's younger brother, Luo ChengYun is Luo Shan's

father. When he was young, he often left QingCheng sect to train
and gather experience. The Luo ChengYun at that time could be
considered a dashing and elegant handsome prince. His admirers
could almost encircle twice of QingCheng sect's territory. It's just
that Luo ChengYun didn't think much of them.

But not even six months after leaving QingCheng sect to train, he
encountered Luo Shan's mother. Luo Shan's mother is a half-demon.
The so-called half-demons are offsprings between demons and
martial artists.

Because they still have human blood lineage, these type of people

241
are usually called half-demons. The biggest difference between them
and pure-blood demons is that half-demons look exactly like
humans. Completely devoid of any demon outer characteristics.

Because of this, although demons detest humans, in order to

accomplish their grand plan, they will capture some humans to mate
with low level demons. The offsprings are gathered and trained and
when they reach a certain age, they will be sent to infiltrate the
humans.

Luo Shan's mother is just one of those spies dispatched to lie low
among humans. Because Luo Shan's mother is very beautiful and
also because her intellect is very high, she quickly attracted the
attention of Luo ChengYun.

Not long after, the both of them became caught up in the river of
love, unable to extricate themselves. Soon they conceived Luo Shan.
When the two of them got married, they did not notify Luo
ChengYuan. Because of all sorts of complicated reasons, Luo
ChengYuan only knows that his younger brother got married and
that they have a plump and strong son called Luo Shan.

After getting married, Luo ChengYun planned to bring his wife and
son back to QingCheng sect. It's on the way back that Luo ChengYun
discovered his wife's true nature. The reason she got close to him
was to infiltrate the inner core of QingCheng sect. In a fit of rage, Luo
ChengYun and his wife fought to the death and both of them died
that very night, leaving behind the son.

But according to eyewitnesses, the couple was a victim of a surprise

attack, all of them died in the end. As for Luo Shan, he disappeared
since that night. Some people said that he died. Others claim that he
was picked up by passerbys. In short, the opinions are widely varied.

242
The reality was, the newborn Luo Shan did not die, and he also
wasn't stolen away. He was taken away by the associate of Luo
ChengYun's wife because Luo Shan was even more suited to being a
spy than his mother. Because he only has one quarter of the demon
blood lineage, the probability of him transforming into a demon is
not high, so the probability of him being found out is also not high.

This was the plan that the demons had. So they brought Luo Shan
back and trained him since young, planning to send him back to
recognize his clan when he is older. So when Luo Shan turned ten, he
was sent back to QingCheng sect.

The Grand Master Luo ChengYuan had always felt guilty towards his
younger brother's family. If he had sent people to greet them at that
time, they wouldn't have fallen victim to villains and suffered early
deaths. So, when Luo Shan returned, Luo ChengYuan felt ashamed
and remorse so he was always relatively indulgent for many things.
This is one of the reasons why Luo Shan grew up to be so arrogant
and considers everyone beneath him. Of course this is also related to
Luo Shan's role as a demon spy. The ten year old Luo Shan already
considers himself as a demon, with humans as the enemy.

QingCheng sect was unable to keep this matter under wraps. It very
quickly leaked out and caused a huge uproar.

While everyone was sobbing and sighing over this, they also started
to become more vigilant. If not for this exposure of Luo Shan as a
demon, they would still be clueless of this demon rand plan. Actually
sending those half-demons to lie low among humans. If a battle
between the two sides were to happen in the future, wouldn't the
other side easily stab them in the back? Thinking like this, all the big
sects erupt in a frenzy trying to dig out half-demons.

243
It is said that this continued on for almost three months leading to
the discovery of several half-demons that were then thrown out.

The Northern Skeleton Mountain Range.

After getting this news, the number one commander of the demons
flies into a rage right on the spot. He kills the messenger but that
doesn't reduce his rage. A violent and sinister killing energy sweeps
through the main hall while the frightened underlings don't dare to
utter a sound. The banquet that had been in full swing with song and
dance falls deadly silent in an instant. The women demons that were
dancing erotically are reduced to small shivering lumps.

"Tell me! What is going on? Why is it that our spies in all the main
sects are being rooted out?"

The demon commander orders darkly, his furious glare falls on the
other messenger. His killing aura threatens to erupt and tear the
latter into pieces.

That demon who just witnessed the death of his comrade, had long
ago become weak-kneed from fright. Dripping with cold sweat, he
doesn't dare to waste even a second when he hears those words. He
repeats everything he heard about the matter in a cautious tone as if
he is terrified that he would leave out a word.

After listening to the whole thing, the demon commander slowly

closes his eyes. When he opens them up again, the furious rage is
even more intense than before. At the same time he says icily: "What
you're saying, is that the spies we sent out fifteen years ago were
kicked out by TianXin sect?"

244
"Ye ....... Yes! That person seems to an outstanding person from the
warrior division of TianXin sect, a leader of the younger generation,
called Lin Xiao."

"Lin Xiao?"

The demon commander spit out these words coldly.

"How did he find out Luo Shan's identity? Even if he is outstanding,

he can't have discovered the identity of Luo Shan who only has a
quarter of demon blood."

"This, no one understand this."

At that time, he was also doubtful. But further investigation also

revealed nothing.

At this moment, the young demon standing next to the command

commander who is also the second in line, steps up. He clasps his
hand and bows respectfully saying: "Commander, in my lowly
opinion, this Lin Xiao must have obtained some ingenious method to
discover demons. If not, he wouldn't have discovered Luo Shan's
identity after meeting him only once. If he had already figured it out
earlier, TianXin sect would have taken some action long ago and not
waited until now."

"You are right. Looks like we can't let this Lin Xiao be. Do we still
have spies in TianXin sect?"

The demon commander is obviously not brainless. It seems he

immediately agrees with his underling's way of thinking.

The young demon says: "We do. But only one. Furthermore, that

245
person's status in TianXin sect is not low. If we are to rashly show our
hand, it may expose his identity. If this happens, I'm afraid it would
be very difficult to send another person to get inside."

The demon commander waves it off not paying it any heed saying:
"We can ignore the matter of being exposed for now. If he really
possesses this ingenious method, that person would be exposed
sooner or later. It's better to dispose of him to avoid an endless
stream of troubles in the future."

"Commander has decreed, so your servant will arrange it."

The young demon no longer objects.

At this time, Ling Xiao still doesn't know that he is now considered a
nail in the eye by the demons, with them unified in thinking up a way
to dispose of him. If he knew, he would most probably find it very
amusing and eagerly await the arrival of that person. But if it was the
former Lin Xiao, he would most probably be very uneasy. After all, if
that spy's status is not low in TianXin sect, with Lin Xiao's ability, he
probably won't be able to put up a fight.

Just when the demons are putting forth schemes and plans, TianXin
sect's warrior division is welcoming their grand annual friendly
competition.

Note:
exquisitely carved intellect - very smart

246
Chapter 53 - Pleasant surprise
For the following short period of time, You XiaoMo uses the excuse
of his leg injury to gradually cut down the number of times he goes
to the Hall of Enchanted Herbs to collect magic herbs. This dawdling
dragged on for almost a month. His 'leg injury' finally heals. During
this time, he took one thousand and two hundred magic herbs. It
appears as if he only refined four hundred magic pills. In reality, he
was busy gathering the mature magic herbs in his dimension.

Ever since he found out that the magic water can accelerate the
growth of magic herbs, You XiaoMo has been thinking of how to use
the magic water to cultivate magic herbs. After a few experiments,
You XiaoMo gradually figures out a few points.

Firstly, the level one magic herbs. Level one magic herbs grow much
more quickly than level two magic herbs. If you don't water them
with magic water, it will take a few months to grow. If you use magic
water, it won't even take half a day for the magic herb will change
from a seed to a fully mature magic herb. The effect is very
impressive. But because it is so impressive, You XiaoMo feels that is
somewhat wasteful.

Although the lake takes up one fifth of the dimension, it is unknown

if it will get replenished. What would happen if he uses it all? With
this in mind, You XiaoMo tries to dilute the magic water with
ordinary water. He finds out that although the effect of the diluted
magic water is not as strong as undiluted magic water, it still has an
accelerating effect. It's only the rate is a little reduced in accordance
to the degree of dilution. With this, he can adjust the rate of growth
of the magic herbs.

247
After figuring this out, he simply stays in his dimension carrying out
tests. He also requests Ling Xiao to go down the mountain to help
him buy fifty big wooden barrels because he already used up this
month's two trip quota. Also, frequently going down the mountain
would attract attention.

Ling Xiao knows that during this time he has been busy planting
magic herbs. Although he doesn't say he would do it, he buys the
fifty wooden barrels for him that very day. You XiaoMo never
expected that he would be so fast. He only asked for them not four
hours before and Ling Xiao already brings the wooden barrels over.
Feeling moved, he almost promises him ten or more magic pills right
then and there. Luckily he is able to stop his mouth in time.

Ling Xiao also doesn't ask for compensation. Seeing that he is busy,
he simply leaves.

When You XiaoMo gets busy, he easily forgets those next to him. So
he doesn't realize when Ling Xiao left. On top of that, his bubbling
spirits causes him to not take any notice. After moving the water
filled barrels into his dimension, he starts to dilute the magic water.

He prepares two different dilutions of magic water according to the

needs of the three types of magic herbs. One is for watering level
one magic herbs. Because they grow too fast, You XiaoMo isn't able
to come in everyday to take care of them, so to avoid being wasteful,
he dilutes the magic water 1:100. This way, the magic herbs will take
five days to grow. However, watering magic herbs cannot be
stopped, basically they need to watered once a day.

The second one if for watering level two magic herbs. Because level
two magic herbs take a longer time to grow when compared to level
one magic herbs, the dilution factor is lower. But You XiaoMo doesn't

248
want to spend time harvesting magic herbs, so he adjusts their
growth rate to one month.

As for level three magic herbs, since he can't use them now, You
XiaoMo plans to observe them for now.

So You XiaoMo puts diluted magic water in fifteen of the fifty

wooden barrels. The rest are filled with ordinary water just in case.

After finishing this, You XiaoMo gathers up the mature magic herbs
and places them on racks. Luckily he had the foresight to buy over
ten racks. He puts the ready magic herbs on top of them. When the
time comes, he just needs to take them from these racks.

But while he is picking magic herbs, he makes a big discovery. He

discovers that whether it is the stalks or the leaves, they are all filled
with spiritual energy. The high concentration clearly shows that they
are top quality magic herbs.

After this surprising discovery, he goes to check on the level two and
level three magic herbs. While he was experimenting, these two
levels of magic herbs also matured one after the other. At this time,
the magic herbs in the field is already the second batch. These two
levels of magic herbs are also top quality, on a completely different
level than the ones in the magic herb gardens of Earth peak.

You XiaoMo immediately thinks that this situation is related to the

magic water. Since the magic water is a result of super concentrated
spiritual energy, condensed into liquid form, wouldn't that mean that
magic herbs watered with the magic water will all be first class?
Although there are some doubts, You XiaoMo is almost certain of
this. This is because he had already checked when he was harvesting
the magic herbs. Each and every one is undoubtedly top quality.

249
This makes You XiaoMo's spirits rise as if having been injected with
chicken blood. This many top quality magic herbs, if they were to be
refined into magic pills, wouldn't they all be top quality magic pills?

Having gone down the mountain twice, he already enquired about

the prices of magic pills. Top grade magic pills, no matter the level,
once they appear, they will be snatched clean. So for higher level top
grade magic pills, they will usually be sold at auction. As for low level
magic pills, if the quantity is big, they can also be sold at auction.

Although very excited, You XiaoMo doesn't immediately use these

magic herbs to refine magic pills. Because he has to take care of
magic herbs, because he has to refine pills for Ling Xiao, and because
he has to deal with the occasional visits from Elder brother, he is
busier than most other people.

Only after he finishes all these things, and after his 'leg injury' has
healed, does You XiaoMo leave the room. Before he can notify Ling
Xiao, Elder brother Fang ChenLe coincidentally comes over. Saying
that Master wants to see them to discuss some matter, they both
head over together.

Although he is Kong Wen's disciple, You XiaoMo has only met Kong
Wen a few times. Most of the time it is Elder brother than comes to
see him. But this time there is an added good news. Apparently, that
Second brother that You XiaoMo has yet to meet, Fu ZiLin has
returned.

Fu ZiLin returning means that he has found that magic herb. You
XiaoMo is very curious about this little genius of a Second brother.

It is said that there is not much of an age difference between him

250
and Elder brother. The two of them entered TianXin sect at the same
time. However, Kong Wen did not take them as disciples at TianXin
sect. When Kong Wen was outside, he chanced upon them, and
discovered that their innate talent was not bad, so he simply
accepted them as disciples before bringing them back.

After that, the two of them did not fail to live up to Kong Wen's
expectations. Only in two and half years, the both of them became
level three mages one after the other. It must be said that usually
people take two to three years just to progress from level two to
level three.

For example, Zhao DaZhou, he is about the same age as them but he
is only a level two mage. Although he will soon rise to level three, he
has already spent almost five years at this level. Furthermore, he
grew up in Earth peak. However, one of the reasons is also his poor
understanding.

On top of that, the transition between level three to level four is

more difficult. Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin also spent a few years
before managing to breakthrough. It's only that their two characters
are poles apart. Elder brother is nice and warm. Second brother is
poker faced, only showing emotions when facing his childhood
friend Elder brother. As for his relationship with others, one can well
imagine.

The meeting place is at Earth peak's Assembly Hall. When two of

them arrive, most of the people have already arrived.

You XiaoMo had originally thought it would just be a meeting

between brothers. He didn't think there would be other people. One
of them is Zhao DaZhou's father, Zhao Zhen. Looking at this array of
people, he must be a blockhead if he still thinks this is just an

251
informal gathering between master and pupils.

You XiaoMo takes a sweeping look over the place, but he doesn't
find that Second brother although the others are already here.

Seeing them enter, Kong Wen signals for them to go over. Who
would have guessed that the first thing he asks is about that one
month of seclusion. That is his secret! How can he say anything?

Notes:
try to go South by driving the chariot North - have nothing in
common
bamboo horse - childhood friend

252
Chapter 54 - Spot on the list
"I heard Uncle Zhao say that you didn't refine many magic pills this
month. Did something happen?"

Kong Wen looks at him calmly, his eyes falling onto his right foot.
Seeing that he is walking normally, he doesn't bring it up and just
brings up the issue of refining magic pills. Since he is his Master, this
is also quite reasonable.

You XiaoMo had long ago prepared himself mentally for this. After
all, he refined much less magic pills this month compared to last
month. In fact, it's not even half. Putting aside the doubts of Uncle
Zhao, Kong Wen as his Master must have even more doubts since it's
very likely that Kong Wen accepted him as a disciple because of this
issue.

You XiaoMo had already thought up his excuse, immediately saying

respectfully: "Master, before this, your disciple went overboard with
refining magic pills. The result is there was not strength left even
though the will is there. Your disciple is worried that the body
wouldn't be able to take it so decided to slow down a little."

Refining over one hundred magic pills in a day is just too uncommon.
Now that he has slowed down, he finds a convenient excuse.

Kong Wen also doesn't suspect him, nodding while saying: "When
refining magic pills, one must be sure to move ahead steadily and
strike sure blows. This you must be sure to remember from now on."

"Disciple will sincerely follow Master's guidance!"

253
You XiaoMo is all respectful and earnest.

Kong Wen nods in satisfaction, then lets him sit at the lowest
position below him. This is arranged according to seniority. You
XiaoMo is the newest disciple and also the youngest. Above him are
all older brothers and sisters. It's reasonable that he should sit at the
last position.

Before long, Second brother Fu ZiLin arrives.

Although letting his brothers and Master wait for him seems a little
self-important, but everyone more or less understands his character.
No one seated shows any sign of displeasure, including the one who
usually makes thoughtless remarks, Zhao DaZhou.

But Fu ZiLin actually has the qualifications to let others wait. Not
mentioning the fact that he is a level four mage, it seems that this
time down the mountain, he brought some good things for Master.

You XiaoMo cranes his neck and peeps outwards. He sees a black
figure stepping steadily over the threshold. The first impression he
gets is one as cold as ice.

Fu ZiLin is very handsome. His facial features appear strongly etched.

Deep features and a prominent nose, completely different from what
he had in mind. He had thought that he would be pretty boy. He
didn't think that he would actually be such a handsome young man,
and basically a human-type air-conditioner. This type of person if you
put him next to Elder brother, you would definitely not think that he
is younger than Elder brother by two years.

You XiaoMo observes that since Fu ZiLin stepped inside, he only

looked towards Elder brother, Master, and the other Uncles. As for

254
his other younger brothers, he seems to overlook them completely.

"Master, your disciple is back!" Fu ZiLin bows with cupped hands as

he speaks in a cold and firm voice.

Kong Wen doesn't ask him to account for his lateness because this
Second disciple is not someone who would come late without a
serious reason. He simply nods and lets him take his place.

Seeing that everyone has arrived, Uncle Zhao nods towards Master.

The reason for this gathering is to discuss an important matter. I'm

sure you all know that the warrior division will soon hold their grand
annual friendly competition. Although it is a friendly competition, it
is considered a grand event for TianXin sect, so the Grand Master of
course is taking this competition seriously. The ones that went last
year were ChenLe, Wu Yan and Mao Can. This year, you all discuss
among yourselves who will be the ones to go!"

Upon hearing this, You XiaoMo immediately becomes pensive.

Friendly competition? Why has he not heard of this? It sounds like a
grand occasion. Seems his seclusion left him out of the loop.

But You XiaoMo has some doubts. What does the Warrior division's
friendly competition have to do with the Mage division such that
they have to send people over!

Seeing that the disciples are not saying anything, Kong Wen adds:
"You all must be aware of the demon appearance a month ago at
HePing town. Although TianXin sect did not uncover any demons,
that doesn't mean that there are no demons here. A few days ago, I,
your uncles, and the Grand Master already discussed this. There
must always be at least two of us guarding Earth peak at all times. As

255
for the Warrior division's grand friendly competition, you all can also
bring some extra people. When the time comes, your Uncle Zhao will
take the lead.

"Master, this time will disciple also be going?"

Fang ChenLe stands up and asks respectfully.

"That sounds good, you can also choose three others to go with
you."

Kong Wen considers briefly and answers him. Although Elder brother
already went the last time, but if he is there then as a Master he
would feel more at ease.

Fang ChenLe as the Elder brother not only has a relatively high
seniority, he also has popular support. Most importantly, he is
cautious, well prepared and calm in the face of unexpected events. If
something comes up, it would be a good thing to have him in charge.
Among his seven disciples, Kong Wen feels the one he can rely on
the most is this Elder brother.

The other disciples are in agreement. It's clear that Fang ChenLe is
very well-liked in Earth peak.

"Younger brother Fu escaped the last two times. So there is no

escape this time."

Fang ChenLe smiles as he looks at Fu ZiLin at his side. The latter just
stays quiet.

Kong Wen also laughs out loud while nodding, saying, "That's right.
This time your Elder brother has decreed. ZiLin can't have any

256
excuses."

Fang ChenLe knows that Master wouldn't object, continuing, "Third

brother and Sixth brother went last year so not this year. So the
second person would be younger sister NanGong ba. Women are
more attentive. As for the last spot ....... little brother XiaoMo, it'll be
you ba. It's not good to constantly be in seclusion. One should go out
and experience things."

Being called on, You XiaoMo freezes then immediately raises his
head, his line of sight colliding with the beaming face of Elder
brother. He thought there would be no chance for him since he only
entered the sect two months ago.

"Elder brother, I also didn't go last year." Zhao DaZhou that is

separated with You XiaoMo by a hair finally voices his objection.

He had thought that this time would definitely be his turn. Who
would have thought that the last spot would go to You XiaoMo. This
little brother that he thinks nothing of, who basically doesn't have
any right to the spot based on his qualifications.

Fang ChenLe had already expected that he would say that so he

calmly explains: "Fifth brother, you are now at the critical point
before your breakthrough. You should concentrate on refining magic
pills."

Zhao DaZhou opens his mouth but is unable to say a word to counter
his argument. He looks up and sees that his father doesn't have the
slightest reaction meaning he also agrees with Elder brother. He is
unable to stop feeling disappointed since he thought that it will
finally be his time and yet there's nothing for him.

257
You XiaoMo who is sitting right at the back also opened his mouth.
Seeing Brother Zhao protest, he thinks of giving the spot to him but
unexpectedly Elder brother is one step faster, voicing out this reason.

He can't see what advantage there would be to go over to the

Warrior division. He feels that refining magic pills in order to rise in
level is more important. Thinking this way, he dismisses his request
to avoid being a villain.

"Alright, it's decided. You will all set out the day after tomorrow.
Remember to prepare yourselves."

Seeing that everything is settled, Kong Wen lets them disperse.

Uncle Zhao walks up to his son, patting his head in consolation. How
can he not know what his son is thinking? Undoubtedly he wants to
go over to join in the fun and play around with some small
scoundrels over at the Warrior division. It would be better for him to
concentrate on refining magic pills, so he didn't object.

While leaving the Assembly Hall in a daze, You XiaoMo suddenly cries
out 'ah'. Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin that were just about to step out
turn around. One looking questioningly while the other frowns.

You XiaoMo doesn't notice. He is completely absorbed in what just

came to his mind. Going over to the Warrior division, doesn't that
mean that he will have to see that bloke Ling Xiao? This is _______
too horrible!

"Little brother XiaoMo, what is it?"

Fang ChenLe walks over and asks him in concern.

258
The moment You XiaoMo raises his head, he sees Fu ZiLin that is
behind Fang ChenLe. Fu ZiLin glances at him somewhat impatiently.
With a start, You XiaoMo quickly shifts his gaze onto the warm and
gentle Elder brother.

"Elder brother, this trip to the Warrior division, how many days will it
be?"

Taking advantage that Elder brother is in front of him, he decides to

get answers to the parts he doesn't understand.

"If it goes well, it will only be five days."

Fang ChenLe laughs while speaking. He had forgotten that his little
brother probably doesn't know anything.

"Then if it doesn't go well ne?"

You XiaoMo asks without thinking. Five days is already too long.
Wouldn't it be even longer if it doesn't go well?

"That's hard to say. But you don't have to worry. It won't go longer
than ten days. After all, the Mage divisions also have their own
things to take care of and can't stay too long."

Fang ChenLe feels that this little brother is getting cuter every time
he sees him, saying whatever comes to his mind. He can't help but
stretch his hand and pat his head.

You XiaoMo is lulled into a daze by the patting. He only comes back
to his senses after they had left. He seems to have been treated like
a little kid.

259
After coming back from the meeting, You XiaoMo quickly asks
around about the grand friendly competition. If he was still the You
XiaoMo from over a month ago, most probably no one would answer
him. But after becoming Kong Wen's disciple, the number of people
who want to suck up to him have increased. If it wasn't because he
was holed up all this time, the chatterboxes would probably have
told him long ago.

This so called grand friendly competition is actually an internal

incentive-based competition held by TianXin sect so all disciples can
participate. But since it's a competition, there will be times when
injuries happen. Internal injuries can be resolved with magic pills.
Exterior injuries however cannot be treated with magic pills so in
order to not affect the Warrior division's competition, the mages are
needed. On one hand, they can help with treatment. On the other
hand, they can also interact with the disciples from the warrior
division.

This type of policy is actually quite like foreign relations.

Furthermore, this is very important for the Mage divisions because it
affects the futures of mages.

Note:
say three say four - make thoughtless comments

260
Chapter 55 - Warrior division's
WuShuang Mountain
As everyone knows, mages don't have combat ability. Although
mages can refine magic pills, their innate talent is not suited to
martial arts. Therefore, normal low and mid level mages need to find
a strong and powerful backer. As for high level mages, they don't
have to look for backers. The backers will come looking for them
instead. This is because martial artists need the high level magic pills
refined by high level mages.

Therefore, most mages will choose to join a sect. The sect can
protect them. Furthermore, if they perform well, they don't even
have go here and there themselves in search of magic herbs.

However, sects also have their own rules. For example, the last time
Ling Xiao left on a mission, they also brought along three mid level
mages. Firstly, it is a precautionary measure in case something
happens along the way. Secondly, only mages will be able to pick
magic herbs and tell them apart, especially when it comes to high
level magic herbs.

High level magic herbs are different from low level magic herbs. The
soul force is needed to pick them. Otherwise the roots could easily
be damaged causing the quality to decrease. This would be like
failing to build something because there is one basket of earth short.

Therefore when TianXin sect sends disciples out on a mission, they

would also send a few mages. Also mages that return from successful
missions are allowed to keep ten percent of the magic herbs they
bring back for themselves.

261
But not everyone is chosen to go on a mission. Some people have
not gone a mission with disciples from the warrior division even
though they have joined the sect for ten years.

Therefore the annual grand friendly competition is a chance. A

chance to interact with the warrior division and develop some
relationships. If they can leave a good impression, even a low level
mage may be chosen.

After getting this information, You XiaoMo feels that the way of the
mage is a really hard road.

The next day, because the magic herbs in the dimension have
matured, You XiaoMo spends almost the whole day in the dimension
right up to the day they set off. Elder brother comes over early in the
morning to call him. He lets him prepare the necessary things for the
trip before heading over to the assembly point in front of the Hall of
Enchanted Herbs.

This trip to the warrior division, other than the four of them, there
are twenty other disciples from other circles. Even from far, You
XiaoMo can hear their excited discussion of the grand friendly
competition. They look very excited except for a few that seem to
have gone over before.

The last to arrive is Uncle Zhao, coming just on time. He doesn't say
anything unnecessary, just reminding everyone to stick to the rules
and not talk nonsense when they enter the domain of the warrior
division. After that, the whole group set out grandly.

"Little brother, even though this is the first time for you, you must
not let out Master lose face oh. You are now representing our Earth
peak."

262
You XiaoMo was minding his own business, eyes looking at nose,
nose looking at heart, when he suddenly hears someone speaking.
He raises his head and sees Big sister NanGong Ying's serious
expression. It's a moment before he realizes that Big sister is
speaking to him so he hastily says: "Yes, please be at ease Big sister. I
will definitely mind my actions."

NanGong Ying actually freezes because she didn't expect him to be

so earnest, making it hard for her to continue what she wanted to
say.

Fang ChenLe who is walking in front suddenly turns around shaking

his head, "Little brother, you don't have to be so nervous. Your Forth
sister is just joking with you. Even though you are Master's disciple,
you have only entered the sect for two months. If Earth peak has to
depend on you to keep up appearances, wouldn't that mean that
there is no one left in Earth peak!"

There is truth in those words. You XiaoMo also knows that Elder
brother is not belittling him so he nods in agreement.

NanGong Ying also doesn't feel embarrassed after having the rug
pulled from beneath her by her own Elder brother. She quickly gets
into the same groove as them and soon teases You XiaoMo again.
But he is no longer fooled since he now knows her character.

This Forth sister is actually very considerate. Afraid that he doesn't

mix well with the others, she would frequently talk to him for the
whole trip.

Even though the Mage and Warrior divisions are from the same sect,
the groups are actually separated by a mountain. If one does not go

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by flying but rather by walking, it would take the time to burn half a
joss stick to get there.

But for mages that frequently walk down the mountain, this is not far
at all. After the time it takes to burn half a joss stick, they finally
make it around the mountain. The warrior division is now in front of
them.

Used to the grandeur of Earth peak, You XiaoMo had thought there
wouldn't be another mountain that would take his breath away.
Who knew that just separated by one mountain there would be an
even grander mountain than Earth peak.

The entire WuShuang Mountain gives off a towering and majestic air.
A line cuts across the lofty mountain. The top part is wrapped in
billowing waves of clouds that can topple mountains and overturn
seas. The magnificence is boundless. A feeling of insignificance
emerges unconsciously in all of them who are standing at the foot of
the mountain when looking up at the mountain. Even the disciples
who have seen it before feel equally awed.

"Is this the the group of Uncle Zhao Zhen?" Someone from the
Warrior division that had long been waiting respectfully for the
arrival of this big group of disciples immediately walks over.

Uncle Zhao gives a faint nod, in the manner of a senior. That disciple
doesn't dare to delay even a little, quickly inviting them in.

The disciples of the Warrior division are distributed over the five
peaks of the mountain into five lineages. They are the East lineage,
West lineage, South lineage, North lineage and Central lineage. The
disciples taking part in this grand friendly competition are from these
five lineages. As for the place of the competition, it will be held on

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the huge plateau halfway up WuShuang Mountain.

That plateau is called Sudden Lightning Plateau. According to legend,

the founder of TianXin sect used divine power to open up this
plateau. Also, every month there will be a day when lightning will
strike the plateau, hence the name of Sudden Lightning Plateau.

Because the competition will only start tomorrow, Uncle Zhao lets
them go around on their own for now, only restricting them to not
wander far.

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Chapter 56 - Dream
Fang ChenLe knows that it is You XiaoMo's first time here so he
plans to take him on a walk to look around. You XiaoMo doesn't
refuse. After all he will be spending the next five days here so he
should really familiarize himself beforehand. The only thing that
surprises him is that Fu ZiLin doesn't appear.

Fang ChenLe sees him looking around and guesses what he is looking
for, "Your Second brother is resting in his own room. He doesn't like
places with a lot of people."

You XiaoMo nods. He can see that from Second brother's character.

"Elder brother, do you have a very good relationship with Second

brother?"

The two of them walk shoulder to shoulder heading out when You
XiaoMo suddenly asks.

"We have known each other since we were little. Does Little brother
think we have a good relationship?"

Fang ChenLe smiles as he answers the question with a question.

You XiaoMo rubs his head awkwardly. He knows that his words were
a little uncalled for but he was looking for a topic of conversation
when that cold as ice Second brother just came to his mind.

Fang ChenLe says: "Actually don't look at Ah Lin's ice-cold exterior.

He is really an outwardly cold but inwardly warm person. It's just that
for various reasons he looks difficult to get along with. But if you

266
spend some time with him, you will find that he is really different
from what he looks like on the outside."

You XiaoMo hesitates before asking, "May I ask why?"

"It's fine. After all, it's not an unspeakable secret."

Fang ChenLe says with a sigh, "The reality is Ah Lin's dream is not to
be an outstanding mage. Since young, his biggest dream was to soar
in the air freely as a martial artist, but ......."

He doesn't have to continue. You XiaoMo can pretty much guess the
rest of it.

For a man of ambition, the road of a mage is undoubtedly one of

broken dreams.

Although mages are also very amazing, they can only refine magic
pills. Unless they become high level mages, they have to attach
themselves to someone with power.

Fang ChenLe looks ahead and suddenly reveals a contented smile,

"But, although Ah Lin doesn't have the natural talent to be a martial
artist, he is actually a genius when it comes to refining magic pills. If
he didn't have to frequently make trips down the mountain to look
for magic herbs, each time for over a month at that, he most
probably would have surpassed me a long time ago."

"I didn't know that Second brother is so awesome."

You XiaoMo praises with sparkling eyes.

"Yes ah, Ah Lin is really very amazing. That's why even the Grand

267
Master values him. Each time he wants to go down the mountain, he
will send two high level people to protect him."

Fang ChenLe beams while he nods. In his opinion, as long as Ah Lin is

happy, it doesn't matter what he does. Although he has no way of
helping him to fulfill his dream, as his closest friend, he will always
support him.

You XiaoMo inclines his head and looks at Fang ChenLe's smiling
face. He suddenly feels that the Elder brother right now is a real
Elder brother.

The two of them carry on walking and chatting. Engrossed in

chatting, they only realize where they are when they have already
walked out of the West side. The West side is where the Earth peak
disciples are staying. The other areas are the East side, South side,
and North side. The Flying peak disciples are at East side while the
Heaven peak disciples are at the South side. As for the North side, it
is reserved for distinguished foreign guests.

Fang ChenLe realizes that they have walked into the East side so he
calmly decides to head back with You XiaoMo but right at that
moment, a group of people walk up to them.

You XiaoMo takes a clearer look and suddenly gets the impulse to cut
off his own two feet. Enemies on a narrow road ah, enemies on a
narrow road. This is the third time he meets this princess Tang
YunQi, and all within two months. He also purposely secludes himself
and rarely goes out. This kind of frequency and they actually meet
again. This type of coincidence can only be called 'ape shit'.

But in hindsight, since each of the three peaks sent people over, that
Tang YunQi would definitely be on the list. And since the West side

268
and the South side are also so close to each other, the probability of
meeting is higher than he imagined.

Of course Tang YunQi also catches sight of him. Her face sinks and
she suddenly walks towards them. After standing firmly in front of
them, she smiles coldly and says: "You XiaoMo. I didn't expect to see
you here. You really have some guts. Let me give you some advice.
This is no longer Earth peak. You better be careful lest you meet with
a big misfortune."

You XiaoMo mouth tightens slightly. He now knows that this princess
won't let him off.

Fang ChenLe frowns slightly. He had heard rumors about Tang YunQi
but he didn't expect her to be so arrogant.

"Junior sister Tang, you have no quarrel with Little brother XiaoMo.
Why are you being so aggressive!"

Tang YunQi glares at him and laughs coldly saying: "No quarrel? If Big
Brother Fang wants to pretend to not understand, there's nothing I
can do about it. But let me advise you, this is between him and me.
It's best that Big brother Fang doesn't interfere."

A flash of displeasure appears in Fang ChenLe's eyes. Just when he is

about to speak, You XiaoMo suddenly pulls his hand.

"Elder brother, don't get angry with with her because of me."

You XiaoMo sees that Fang ChenLe is getting angry so he knows that
he can't let this get any further. Even Elder brother, the one that
everyone at Earth peak considers as good natured, can be angered
by Tang YunQi. This clearly shows the knack she has to drive people

269
crazy and forsake one's life.

"Little brother ....... "

Fang ChenLe feels that his little brother is really too passive. He
doesn't know that You XiaoMo only feels that it is unnecessary to
haggle over every ounce with this type of people. Because the more
you argue, the other person's arrogance will only get worse.

Right then, a group of people walk in under the close-by arched

stone gate. As if seeing the group of people gathered, those few
people simply walk up to them. The one in front is surprisingly the
one that You XiaoMo has not seen for a few days, Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao has a fondness for white. He is dressed as usual in a

luxurious white robe. Elegant and dashing, he is the focal point
wherever he goes.

Tang YunQi sees him and immediately her cold sneer is replaced with
delight. She lifts up her lotus feet and runs towards him calling him
happily: "Elder brother, why are you here? Are you here to see me?"

Ling Xiao gives her an indifferent glance then looks at You XiaoMo
who is three meters away. Just when he is about to call him, his eyes
fall on his hand that is still clutching Fang ChenLe. He suddenly
narrows his eyes.

You XiaoMo can almost feel the hot scalding gaze that falls on his
hand. He quickly withdraws his hand in fright.

Notes:
ape shit (yuan2fen4 ??) - homophone for fate (yuan2fen4 ??)

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celebrate a festival - quarrel

271
Chapter 57 - Mistakenly touched
Ling Xiao doesn't bother with Tang YunQi that is looking at him
expectantly, and simply walks up to You XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo sees that he isn't saying anything while continuing to

look at him and Elder brother. He hesitates before laughing
uncomfortably and asking cautiously: "Elder brother Ling, why are
you here?"

"What's the matter? Am I being a bother to your tender and loving

time with your Elder brother?"

Ling Xiao raises his brow slightly.

Seeing his expression, You XiaoMo knows that he is angry but he

doesn't know why. So he can only explain: "No, you misunderstand.
Because it's my first time here, so Elder brother is taking me around
to familiarize myself with the surroundings."

"Little brother."

Ling Xiao suddenly smiles, walks over and intimately drapes his arm
over his shoulder.

You XiaoMo feels a little terrified, surreptitiously glancing at Ling

Xiao's arm that is draped over his shoulder. What is he up to?

Ling Xiao looks at him and says warmly, "Next time you feel like
taking a walk, tell me beforehand. Elder brother will personally go
with you. It doesn't matter where you want to go, understand?"

272
You XiaoMo immediately nods his head like a chick pecking rice. That
last word was said in a threatening tone. If he were to shake his
head, it would be tantamount to seeking his own death.

Ling Xiao nods in satisfaction, having no intention of removing the

arm from his shoulder.

At this time, everyone is already shocked speechless by their

intimate actions. It seems Elder brother Lin Xiao has never been so
close to anyone before. Not even with his own disciples. What more
a disciple from Earth peak.

Before this, some had thought that the rumors were partly false. But
now, seeing with their own eyes, the reality is even more extreme
than the rumors.

The ones that suffered the biggest shock is not the people from
Heaven peak but rather the few disciples that came with Ling Xiao.
Each one of their jaws fall to the ground, looking at this scene
unfolding in front of their eyes with horror.

"Elder brother. This junior brother, can it be Earth peak's Uncle

Kong's newest seventh disciple, You XiaoMo?"

A young man steps up from the crowd. It's Junior brother Zhou Peng
that Ling Xiao met after returning to TianXin sect. The one that has
absolute trust in Lin Xiao.

As for the rumors about Elder brother and You XiaoMo, Zhou Peng
had heard a little about it. He was worried that the latter got closer
to Elder brother harboring ulterior motives so he sent people to look
into it. Later, when he found out that he was only a probationary
disciple, he figured that this person probably wouldn't be able to stir

273
up great winds or huge waves so he simply put it aside. Right up to
the time he heard news about his being accepted as Uncle Kong's
disciple.

Being accepted as the disciple by one of the three great mages of

TianXin sect for no rhyme or reason, Zhou Peng feels that this You
XiaoMo is most probably not an ordinary person. This rouses his
suspicions again so he again asked around about him. But all the
information he received is related to Elder brother. Thus Zhou Peng
realizes that the way Elder brother treats him is not as simple as he
imagined.

Seeing that one speaking is Zhou Peng, Ling Xiao smiles, "Such a rare
meeting, let me introduce all of you."

The other two Junior brothers can't help looking at each other. Elder
brother is actually introducing him to them. Looks like he really
thinks a lot of You XiaoMo.

Ling Xiao pulls You XiaoMo to his front and holds him from behind.
He points to Zhou Peng and the others saying: "These are all my
junior brothers. From right to left is Zhou Peng, Qin ShiYu, and Luo
Xia. You can just call them Big brother."

"Big brother Zhou, Big brother Qin, Big brother Luo, pleased to meet
you!" You XiaoMo greets them somewhat stiffly.

"Very pleased to make your acquaintance, Junior brother You!"

Zhou Peng and the others reply one after the other with no hint of
contempt.

This brotherly scene seems to stab blind the eyes of Tang YunQi.

274
Seeing Elder brother intimately hug You XiaoMo with her own eyes,
she is so jealous to the point of losing her mind. She still can't
understand what it is that You XiaoMo has to make Elder brother
suddenly give him such special treatment.

Not wanting to stay any longer and be further humiliated, Tang

YunQi glares hatefully at the uneasy You XiaoMo before turning
around and running out of the South side.

You XiaoMo's smile is now fixed stiffly on his face. He thinks about
the overlooked Fang ChenLe standing at his side.

Zhou Peng and the others have long ago heard of Fang ChenLe since
he is Earth peak's Elder disciple. They also met him last year during
the grand annual friendly competition. But they only exchanged a
few words since the ones working with them have always been the
people from Heaven peak.

After exchanging a few words of greetings, Ling Xiao leaves behind a

'I'll come look for you tomorrow' before leaving with his three junior
brothers.

Seeing them walk further into the South side, Fang ChenLe
withdraws his pensive gaze and looks over to You XiaoMo. The latter
is right in the act of wiping the sweat of his brow, seeming to be very
relieved, causing him to raise his brow.

"Little brother ......."

"Elder brother. Little brother."

A monotone voice comes from the front, cutting off what Fang
ChenLe wants to say.

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The two of them turn around and see Fu ZiLin that is standing just
outside the South side gate. Tall and handsome but wrapped in cold
detachment like wintry ice that remains unchanged throughout the
year.

Fang ChenLe knows that this is not a chance encounter. He is eighty

percent sure that Fu ZiLin is looking for them, and probably for some
urgent matter. If not, with his nature, he won't leave the room of his
own accord without someone urging him.

Talking while walking, Fang ChenLe finds out that it is Uncle Zhao
that is looking for him, thus reminding him of something.

Most probably Uncle Zhao wants to discuss tomorrow's

arrangements. Because there are many more disciples in the warrior
division than the mage division, and also because all five warrior
division lineages will be taking part, the mages must be evenly
assigned beforehand to avoid chaos when the time comes.

You XiaoMo thinks that this has nothing to do with him so he is

about to take his leave when he hears Elder brother say 'You will
come along'.

There are five lineages in the Warrior division, with the Central
lineage being the strongest. The Central lineage is different from the
other four lineages. The younger generation with the highest
strength are brought into the Central lineage. They are the cream of
the crop chosen from the East, South, West, and North lineages. Ling
Xiao is from the Central lineage, and also is the Central lineage's
strongest 'disciple'. Zhou Peng and the other two are also the same.

But the competition for the Central lineage is different from the

276
other four lineages. Because their strength is too high, the Central
lineage competition is separate from that of the other four lineages.

What Uncle Zhao wants to discuss involves the Central lineage. The
disciples of the Central lineage are the core disciples of TianXin sect.
Each of them is a rare talent. TianXin sect is also prepared to nurture
them wholeheartedly. So, their future status in TianXin sect will
definitely be higher that the other four lineages.

But because they are the core disciples, information about them
cannot be leaked out. So the assigned mages must be discreet.

Zhao Zhen's suggestion is to send Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin. They are
the most senior, with spotless backgrounds, so they are the best
choice.

Unexpectedly the first one to object is Fang ChenLe. On top of that,

he wants to send You XiaoMo and Fu ZiLin together. This surprises
not only Zhao Zhen. Even You XiaoMo feels that he is hearing things.

Zhao Zhen expected the first one to object would be Fu ZiLin, "Why?"

"Uncle, ChenLe as the Elder brother has the duty to look after the
other brothers. If I were to go with Second brother, and something
unexpected happens, you also won't be there, so what would
happen? Of course, it's not that I don't trust Fourth sister but I'm
afraid she won't be able to cope by herself."

"But, your Seventh brother just entered the sect two months ago."

Zhao Zhen knows that what he says is not wrong but he still has one
doubt.

277
Fang ChenLe had long ago thought about this issue, "Uncle, if you are
worried, you can let Seventh brother take a vow."

Zhao Zhen looks at the determined Fang ChenLe, and then looks at
the shocked You XiaoMo, before finally sighing while nodding,
"Alright, let's do it like you suggested, but ....... "

"Don't worry Uncle. If something happens, I will bear the

responsibility myself."

Hearing his last word, Fang ChenLe knows what he wants to say.
Without the slightest hesitation he takes on the responsibility.

Leaving Zhao Zhen's room, on the way back, You XiaoMo finally can't
take it longer and asks the question in his heart, "Elder brother, why
did you recommend that I go?"

"You seem to have a good relationship with Lin Xiao ba. But you
seem to be afraid of him?"

Fang ChenLe doesn't give him a real answer, instead asking him one
in return.

"Uh, it's not really like that ....... "

You XiaoMo has no way of explaining the reasons behind it.

Fang ChenLe doesn't pressure him further, just saying: "Tang YunQi is
someone that would seek revenge over an angry look. This time, you
have insulted her. She will definitely plan to hurt you from the
shadows. Me and Uncle Zhao can't always be looking after you but
it's different for Lin Xiao. His standing is even more stronger than
Tang YunQi. With you right under his eyes, one would think that

278
even Tang YunQi won't dare to go overboard."

"So Elder brother did that for me?"

You XiaoMo looks wide-eyed at Fang ChenLe.

Elder brother actually gave up this great opportunity of his own

accord for him. Such magnanimity, such sense of brotherhood, it
really makes him feel very touched.

"Of course not."

Seeing his face brimming with emotion, Fang ChenLe can guess what
he is thinking. He laughs *pu chi*. This little brother is really too
naive, "What I just said to Uncle Zhao is the truth. Before we set out,
Master urged me to take good care of the group of disciples. So,
even if you're not here, I would also suggest someone else."

You XiaoMo immediately ?. Fine, it seems he did read too much into
it.

Note:
? - emoticon for Orz

279
Chapter 58 - Top grade magic pills
You XiaoMo opens the door of his room but when he sees the
person outside, the corner of his eye suddenly twitches. Someone
clearly said that he will look for him tomorrow morning. But now is
obviously night time. Furthermore, it has only been six hours since
they met during the day.

Ling Xiao couldn't care less about what he is thinking. He simply

pushes open the other door and walks in. His overbearing manner
makes people think that this is his room. After taking a seat, a pair of
warm yet sharp eyes stare fixedly at You XiaoMo. This is simply a
cudgel on top of sugarcoated bullets!

You XiaoMo's scalp start to feel numb from his stare. He quickly
shuts the room door before walking up to him. He carefully steals a
glance at his face and thinks back to what happened these few days.
It doesn't seem as if he did anything to provoke him so he just asks,
"Elder brother Ling, didn't you say that we will meet tomorrow? Why
are you here now?"

"Listening to your tone of voice, are you not happy to see me?"

Ling Xiao raises his brow slightly but doesn't reveal what he is
thinking.

You XiaoMo shivers, "No, you can come whenever you feel like it."

There's no way he dares to oppose. He is not yet bored of living. He

has already somewhat figured out Ling Xiao's dictatorial character.

Ling Xiao stares at his face, as if he wants to dig out a hole. Only

280
when You XiaoMo seems to can't bear it any longer, does he quietly
withdraws his gaze, "I never imagined that you would make it on the
list."

"List? What list?"

You XiaoMo is confused.

"What? Don't tell you don't know that every year for the friendly
competition, the Mage division will draw up a list of people that will
be responsible for the Central lineage?"

Thinking that he has yet to hear of it, Ling Xiao explains it to him.

You XiaoMo blinks a few times. He just discussed that this afternoon
with Elder brother and Uncle Zhao. I didn't expect Ling Xiao to find
out so quickly. He is really too well-informed. But thinking of his
standing and status in the Warrior division, he feels that it is only to
be expected.

"I know about that. Uncle Zhao looked for us this afternoon to talk
about it. It was supposed to be Elder brother and Second brother.
But Elder brother wants to take care of the other disciples so he let
me take his place. This time it will me and Second brother going to
the Central lineage."

You XiaoMo shakes his head while explaining the situation. After all,
it is not a secret.

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes and looks at his slightly smiling face, "This
Elder brother of yours, he seems to treat you a little too nicely ba?"

These words make You XiaoMo think of this afternoon's

281
misunderstanding. His cheeks suddenly start to flush a pale pink.
Really too embarrassing!

However this reaction, in the eyes of Ling Xiao, is a bashful

expression. In a split second, a dense dark storm rages in his eyes but
the other party doesn't notice, not even a little bit. He is still deeply
lost in his own thoughts.

"Elder brother Ling, is there something else?"

You XiaoMo suddenly shivers remembering that there is someone

else in the room. But by the time he looks at Ling Xiao, the latter's
face is back to what it was before, so calm that it seems that the
whole scene just now is just an illusion.

Ling Xiao looks somewhat meaningfully at You XiaoMo. That gaze is

like a little dagger, seeming to cut from top to bottom. Slowly and
carefully scraping over, not missing even a tiny bit. The latter feels
goosebumps pop up following his gaze.

"There is still one more thing. Since you have things to do for the
next few days, you can leave the magic pill matter for now ....... wait
until you return to Earth peak then you can make up for it."

You XiaoMo suddenly feels touched. Ling Xiao is finally showing

some consideration for him. This really is like red rain falling from
heaven, snow in June .......

Although it is beyond his imagination, it really happened. This really

surprised him beyond belief. But when he hears the rest of his
words, all of his grateful emotions seems to have been blown away
by a strong wind. After feeling touched, he again got the wrong idea!

282
"Did you hear me?"

Not hearing his reply, Ling Xiao raises his brow while looking at him.

You XiaoMo's shoulders shake a little, "I understand."

Ling Xiao stands up, "So be it, I will personally come pick you up
tomorrow."

You XiaoMo cries out 'ah', "You mean you want to come here
personally to pick me up?"

He had thought that Ling Xiao meant that they would meet during
the competition. He didn't think that he would personally come here.

"If not ne?"

Ling Xiao asks him indifferently. Of course he is not going to tell You
XiaoMo that his original intention was indeed to meet him during the
competition but he changed his mind.

Since You XiaoMo likes Fang ChenLe so much, he purposely doesn't

want to let them have the opportunity to spend time together. So he
of course will come as early as possible to take him to avoid them
interacting with each other where he can't see. He doesn't know why
he doesn't like it when he sees You XiaoMo's reaction but since it is
like that, he just does what he wants.

You XiaoMo shakes his head. He knows that Ling Xiao is getting
angry. But he still can't figure out what he did to make Ling Xiao this
angry. Thinking it over, it doesn't seem he did anything.

After Ling Xiao leaves, You XiaoMo still can't figure it out so he

283
decides to forget about it.

Although Uncle Zhao allowed them to have a good rest tonight since
they will have things to do tomorrow, You XiaoMo doesn't want to
waste time.

This month, he had been busy with the magic herbs in the
dimension. He hasn't refined magic pills for a long time. So he wants
to take advantage of this time to use the magic herbs from the
dimension to try refining a batch of magic pills to see what the
quality would be like.

Acting out his thoughts, You XiaoMo immediately locks the room
door and brings out the cauldron that is always stuck to his side from
his magic bag. The cauldron is still the same one that Earth peak
provided. Black and heavy, unattractive in outward appearance.

You XiaoMo did think of buying a better cauldron but he hasn't

raised enough money. The other two times he sold magic pills, the
money was basically used to buy magic herb seeds. The remaining
funds is just not enough to buy good cauldron.

But that is only one reason. The most important reason is buying one
will make people suspicious. He is a child from an impoverished
family. Entering the sect for two months, how could he possibly have
money to buy a good cauldron?

Considering all these, You XiaoMo has no choice but to give up on

this idea.

You XiaoMo takes out twelve stalks of magic herbs from the
dimension. He doesn't dare to take out too much. Although he had
already locked the door, there is no guarantee that someone won't

284
barge in.

The twelve stalks of magic herbs are materials for the Fasting magic
pill. The last time he went down the mountain, he conveniently
asked around and figured out that there is a considerable market for
the Fasting magic pill.

Some martial artists can do away with eating and drinking once they
reach a certain level. But not everyone has this ability. Such as
normal people, three meals a day is a must. And then there are those
lower level martial artists and even mages themselves.

Adding up all these people, amounts to a huge number. But as

everyone knows, the Fasting magic pill is only available as low quality
magic pills. Mid-grade and top-grade magic pills are very rare. Even if
they exist, they would be taken by those with money and influence.
It's clear how considerable the market for the Fasting magic pill is.

You XiaoMo takes a deep breath and picks up three stalks of magic
herbs. These magic herbs are from the first harvest in his dimension.
They contain a very high concentration of spiritual energy. Just by
holding them in his hand, he can smell that clear freshness. His
whole heart and soul seem to be cleansed, making him feel very
refreshed.

You XiaoMo feels a little excited. He didn't expect that elevating the
quality of the magic herbs will actually have such an effect. If he
were to refine them into magic pills, what kind of quality would they
be?

Putting the three stalks of magic herbs into the cauldron, You
XiaoMo slowly releases his soul force. After over a month of training,
his soul force is stronger than before, purer than before.

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Very quickly, the silvery white spiritual energy permeates the
cauldron. Under his skilled movements, the three stalks of magic
herbs slowly transform into a pool of magic liquid. The next step is to
remove the impurities. Although they are called high grade magic
herbs, even high grade magic herbs will inevitably contain some
residual impurities. What You XiaoMo wants to do is to eliminate
each and every one of those impurities.

Although there is no guarantee, fortunately he has already practiced

it over a thousand times. Going through the motions he doesn't feel
it is especially difficult. But after refining it once, he feels like the will
is there but the ability is not. It's not because his soul force is
insufficient but the remaining impurities can't seem to be removed
no matter what he does. In the end, he can only go ahead and start
the blending step.

Because the quality of the magic herbs is not the same, in order to
avoid failing, You XiaoMo proceeds with extreme concentration. Five
simple steps. He doesn't dare to make any mistakes. Each step is
carried out with utmost care. He seems to be more absorbed than
ever. Even if someone were to knock at the door, he most probably
won't hear it.

Half a joss stick later!

You XiaoMo looks at the magic pill lying in the palm of his hand while
wiping off a handful of sweat. A very deep dark blue color.

This is what they call a top grade magic pill. The medicinal fragrance
contained in the magic pill is stronger than any low grade magic pill
he has ever smelled. The whole room seems to be flooded with this
medicinal fragrance.

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You XiaoMo looks at it contentedly. When he shows it to Ling Xiao
tomorrow, he would definitely be very happy. When he's happy, he
shouldn't be angry any more ba?

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Chapter 59 - Pick up
The next day, You XiaoMo wakes up very early and is still full or
vigor. Last night he refined magic pills for almost six hours. But that
was with the help of the magic water. The effect is really
extraordinary. He doesn't feel the least bit tired. He then heads
towards the front of the West side to assemble with the rest.

Just when Uncle Zhao is dividing up the people, Ling Xiao appears.
Not a minute earlier, not a minute later.

Upon seeing Ling Xiao, the Earth peak disciples all feel very curious.
Although he did go to the Earth peak canteen the last time, not
everyone saw him. Most of the people's impression of Ling Xiao are
still based on the rumors they heard before.

But thinking of the recent rumors, everyone turns to look at You

XiaoMo. Ling Xiao showing up here most probably means he is here
to see You XiaoMo ba!

"Uncle Zhao."

Although Ling Xiao is here to pick up You XiaoMo, he is not that

arrogant to ignore Uncle Zhao.

Although with respect to his status and standing, Uncle Zhao really
nobody in his eyes. But although the original Lin Xiao is arrogant, he
still treats the elders very politely. Since he is now playing the part of
Lin Xiao, it's better if his character doesn't depart too much from the
original.

Uncle Zhao had also the heard the rumors about Ling Xiao and You

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XiaoMo but he never did give it much thought. Now, seeing that Ling
Xiao is here personally, and seeing the reactions of the other
disciples looking towards You XiaoMo, he more or less figures it out.
But although he understands, Uncle Zhao doesn't say it out, only
asking, "Nephew Lin, are you here to receive the disciples?"

Ling Xiao raises the corner of his lips saying smoothly, "To tell Uncle
Zhao the truth, Ling Xiao is here to pick up Little brother You."

Standing among the people, You XiaoMo feels his eyelids twitch.
Even if he is here to pick him up, does he have to stress the word
'Little'? Although he is not yet an adult, he is definitely not the
youngest one here. Among them, there is still one that is a year
younger than him.

"Nephew Fu also wants to go, if Nephew Lin doesn't mind, could you
let Nephew Fu go along with the both of you to the Central lineage?"

Zhao Zhen nods his head, with Lin Xiao bringing them over, he feels
more at ease. So he doesn't object and even hands Fu ZiLin over to
him. Speaking about that, the one he is most worried about is Fu
ZiLin. This disciple looks very even-tempered but in reality he is
actually very stubborn.

"I don't mind."

Ling Xiao beams while replying. Zhao Zhen's suggestion was what he
expected. As long as it's not Fang ChenLe, any other disciple would
be fine.

Zhao Zhen immediately feels relieved and calls out Fu ZiLin and You
XiaoMo.

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The Central lineage is not the same as the other lineages. The
atmosphere is more serious. The most unacceptable thing is being a
blabber a mouth or enquiring about the internal matters. Therefore,
after Zhao Zhen calls them up to the front, he strongly urges them to
not do things that are uncalled for. They must abide to what the
elders put in place. He repeats his advice to stress its importance.

Even though Fu ZiLin is as cold as ice, hearing these words he nods

his head slightly. Although the action is small, Zhao Zhen knows that
he understands.

You XiaoMo doesn't dare to answer Zhao Zhen as indifferently as Fu

ZiLin. When he finished speaking, he nods his head vigorously and
also says that he understands.

Seeing their repeated assurances, Zhao Zhen finally feels at ease and
hands them over to Ling Xiao.

With that, the three of them head towards the Central lineage. At
this time, the friendly competition has yet to begin.

You XiaoMo walks in the middle, strongly feeling that he is walking in

the wrong position. To his left is a walking iceberg, frequently
releasing puffs of cold air. To his right, is a wolf in sheep's clothing,
able to turn into the devil at any time.

He didn't realize it before so this is the tragic result. When he thinks

of changing positions, Ling Xiao's meaningful look falls on him again
and again, scaring him stiff such that he can't even think of changing
positions. He proceeds in this uncomfortable situation all the way to
the Central lineage.

The Central lineage is located on the highest peak of WuShuang

290
mountain. That enormous peak is located behind the other four
lineages. And behind that is an endless sea of clouds.

Ling Xiao brings them there via a relatively remote route so they
don't meet other disciples from the Warrior division along the way.
Finally they stop in front of a huge temple gate. A black gold-rimmed
plaque hangs on top of the gate. On the plaque is written grandly
two words - Central lineage. The imposing air is quite extraordinary.
People of lower strength would feel uncomfortable looking at it.

The person who wrote those words must be very powerful. Just
glancing at it, You XiaoMo's heart starts to beat faster. He can't help
feeling his heart waver. But it's only for a moment. Although he is
not a martial artist, his soul is stronger and more resilient that
normal people. This cannot be separated from him practicing the
[Heavenly Soul Scroll]. If it was one of his other brothers, they might
not feel this way.

Fu ZiLin is a level four mage. His soul force is much stronger than You
XiaoMo's. The power of the two words have no effect on him.

As for Ling Xiao, don't even talk of making an impression on him. It

wouldn't even be strange if the person who wrote these two words
is in awe of him.

You XiaoMo shakes his head and finally shakes of that feeling. He
raises his head and run into Ling Xiao's gaze at him. The latter is
expressionless. Seeing that he is fine, Ling Xiao withdraws his gaze.
You XiaoMo then sees Ling Xiao take out a black tablet from his chest
and throw it through the temple gate.

The still air start to ripple outwards. The black tablet looks as if it is
sinking into a swamp, slowly swallowed up by the ripples and finally

291
disappears. You XiaoMo has seen this type of phenomenon before in
the library.

When he wanted to take the books off the shelves, he also needed a
tablet. Later he learned that the bookshelves are protected by a
barrier. If you don't take the tablet from the old man guarding the
library, even if you manage to enter the library, you still won't be
able to take the books off the shelves. On top of that, you will also be
discovered.

Now this situation most probably means that this is also a barrier.
That black tablet is simply the key to open the barrier.

After having experienced it so many times, it is not unexpected that

You XiaoMo is no longer shocked by these strange happenings. In
fact, the happenings in this world have long surpassed the scientific
reasoning he is familiar with in his past life. If he still wants to use
scientific reasoning to explain all of these unscientific events, he
might as well put a knife to his own throat and kill himself.

Although the temple gate doesn't change, after the tablet

disappears, You XiaoMo knows that they can now enter.

Fu ZiLin doesn't wait for Ling Xiao to speak, and walks ahead into the
gate.

You XiaoMo wants to follow closely but he suddenly remembers his

uncomfortable position. Right at this moment of hesitation, his
shoulder is pulled and held with a strength that can't be easily
denied. A familiar scent floods his nose. If it's not Ling Xiao, who else
can it be?

"Beloved little brother. If you don't want to walk, I can carry you oh."

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Shallow laughter floats above his head.

You XiaoMo unconsciously pictures himself being carried by Ling

Xiao. Goosebumps immediately spring up. It's really too scary okay.
He then immediately runs for his life chasing after Fu ZiLin.

Ling Xiao looks at his escaping back before raising his head and
having a good laugh.

__________________________________________________
I don't speak Chinese. Corrections welcomed.

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Chapter 60 - Share a room
Personally picked up by Ling Xiao, it must be said that this is an
extreme honor. After the news got out, practically everyone wants to
see what that little brother who was personally picked up by Ling
Xiao looks like.

Lin Xiao is an extremely talented person envied by all. Although he

can be insolent and reckless or cold and aloof, it still doesn't change
his place in the hearts of his brothers. Especially now that he has
changed a little.

Ever since that time he came back from his trip down the mountain,
his character has changed. Before, Lin Xiao only had one expression
on his face - indifferent. No matter if he is concerned about you or
alienating you.

But the current Lin Xiao is no longer the same. A warm smile often
hangs on his handsome face. His voice sounds more pleasing to the
ear. A thread of mischief and wickedness runs through his gentle and
unrestrained nature. Bursting with magnetism, one cannot deny that
under the allure of his gentle like jade voice and smiling face, more
and more brothers are captivated by his charm.

It's not as if nobody doubts this change in Lin Xiao. The fact is, the
first day Ling Xiao returned to TianXin sect, he already caught the
attention of a few wily old foxes. When the two of them met, Tang
Fan already probed Ling Xiao but he failed to find anything
questionable. As for the others, they only found out about the
change in 'Lin Xiao' later on. TianXin sect, as a major sect needs to
exercise caution in every respect. So other people also probed Ling
Xiao but just like Tang Fan, they failed to find anything questionable.

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That's because the current Ling Xiao knows about the various secrets
of TianXin sect. But what they never expected is that it is actually
from Lin Xiao's memory.

But compared to Lin Xiao from before, the current Ling Xiao's
personality is much more likable, so many more brothers want to get
closer to him. In just one short month, most of the brothers and
sisters in the Warrior division have been won over by him. Even
those that could not be won over by Lin Xiao are now firmly in Ling
Xiao's camp. The current Ling Xiao's standing in the Warrior division
is much higher than that of original Lin Xiao. So, when You XiaoMo
and Ling Xiao show up together, it immediately attracts a large
crowd of onlookers.

"Elder brother, this is the little brother. He looks ....... not bad ma!"

"Oh, not bad, it's the type I like."

"Turns out the person that Elder brother personally went to pick up
his him ah. I've seen him before. It's Earth peak's outstanding talent
Fu ZiLin, the famous poker face?"

You XiaoMo, "......."

Fu ZiLin, "......."

Ling Xiao, "haha!!"

With all of them talking on top of each other, it's completely

different from what has been said about the Central lineage
disciples, described by outsiders as mysterious and elitist. They are
unexpectedly ....... chatty. It's only that their attention is focused on
the wrong target.

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Zhou Peng supports his forehead with his hand, "You are all wrong.
It's not him."

The discussion immediately dies down. Then You XiaoMo walks out
hesitatingly from behind Fu ZiLin. In an instant, pairs of eyes shoot at
him like X-rays. Shrinking his neck, he wonders if he can step back
from this battlefield.

"What a cute little fella. Not even eighteen ba?"

"Phew, that's more like it ma. How can Elder brother like a poker
face?" Big sigh of relief.

"Looks like Elder brother likes the small and weak type. No wonder
he didn't accept his previous pursuers. If I had known, I would not
have learned the QingGang sword technique."

"Gross, it wouldn't change anything even if you didn't learn it. Look
at your bear-like nature." says a junior brother in disgust.

"Impudent brat, how can you speak to your big sister like that? How
am I like a bear?"

You XiaoMo blushes beet red from their words. Ling Xiao likes him?
Not possible. Although Ling Xiao did help him out a lot, it's all in
exchange for his hard work. On top of that, he had also agreed to
many unfair agreements on his part.

Ling Xiao is relatively thick-skinned. Seemingly unfazed by their

words. After saying a few words, he lets them go handle the
preparations for the competition. He then takes You XiaoMo and Fu
ZiLin to their rooms.

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It's just that the Central lineage is not the same as the other four
lineages. The Central lineage is a forbidden place for people that
don't have business here. So usually, there are no visitors. Because of
that, there are no guest rooms, so they will have to cram in and
share rooms with others.

But after Ling Xiao explains this, the one with the biggest reaction is
actually You XiaoMo.

"You you you ....... you mean, I have to sleep in the same room with
you?"

You XiaoMo looks at Ling Xiao in disbelief.

"Central lineage has no guest rooms. All the previous competitions

also have multiple people sharing one room. It can't be that your
Elder brother didn't tell you about it ma?"

Ling Xiao beams as he speaks. From the tone of his voice, he seems
to be in a good mood.

You XiaoMo's mouth hangs slightly open. He really didn't hear

anything about this from Elder brother. He always thought that
everyone will have their own room.

"Where is my room?"

Fu ZiLin who hasn't said a word the whole time finally opens his
mouth. He accepts the reality much more readily than You XiaoMo.
This is also his first time in the Central lineage but his mental
toughness is much more resilient than You XiaoMo's. On top of that,
there is his cold as ice nature, making it unthinkable that he would

297
bother to squabble about trivial things. That's because there is really
only one outcome, that is to accept it!

Ling Xiao smiles as he points to the neighboring room, "Next door is

Junior brother Zhou's room. You will have to stay with him for the
next few days."

Fu ZiLin nods his head indifferently. He then walks right over, pushes
the door open and *peng* shuts it again. The whole process is
straight to the point, not the tiniest bit of hesitation, as if he has
done it many times before.

You XiaoMo looks at him with eyes wide open and mouth agape. But
thinking of his own situation he simply can't take it. If he has to share
a room with someone else, he can still accept it. But the person he
has to share a room with is Ling Xiao that loves to make fun of him.
Such an extremely mean person!

"Elder brother Ling, was this assigned beforehand?"

You XiaoMo suspects that Ling Xiao is abusing his power.

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes as a flash of wickedness seems to emerge.

A devilish hint appears in his eyes but he maintains his gentle and
amiable smile. A relaxed drawl can be heard, "Do you mean to say
that you would rather room with someone else than share a room
with me?"

"No no ....... "

You XiaoMo's head shakes like a drum-shaped rattle. He feels that

his eyes are getting blurry.

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"Don't forget, with the situation you're in, you can only stay with me.
If someone were to find out about the secrets on you, do you think
that other than me, there is someone else that would help you
conceal the secret of your magic water dimension?

You XiaoMo can't help but feel guilty. He really only now just thought
about this issue.

Ling Xiao is right. He holds such a huge secret on his chest. If

someone were to discover his secret, it would most probably spell
the end of this life. So he is left with no other choice but to stay
together with Ling Xiao.

Seeing his lowered crestfallen face, accepting his fate, Ling Xiao
gleefully puts his arm around his shoulder. He beams as he says:
"Let's go ba little brother. I'll let you take a look at Lin Xiao's room.
Do you know that you are the lucky first one? None of your other
brothers have had the pleasure.

You XiaoMo pouts. He himself doesn't wish the be the lucky one.

Notes:
seven mouths, eight tongues - talking all at once
not dragging mud, not carrying water - no nonsense

299
Chapter 61 - Sleep with me
The arena for the Central lineage's competition is the large piece of
empty land to the left of the temple gate. This is also where the
Central lineage disciples regularly practice. After being chosen as the
location for the competition, a large enclosed arena was erected.
Because the number of Central lineage disciples is not as many as the
other four lineages and because they are core disciples of
extraordinary talent, the competition will be single one to one
rounds.

Although the time for the competition has not arrived, there are still
a lot of people gathered here. In the past, the brothers and sisters
would be talking about matters concerning the competition. Like if
there's a dark horse or results of the rankings but this year it's a little
different. What everyone is talking about seems to be all about You
XiaoMo. Especially a certain jealous to the point of death young girl.

"You're saying that brother Xiao is really staying in the same room
with that You XiaoMo?"

Tang YunQi's heart is seized with jealousy to point of insanity.

Heaven knows that when she heard this news, how much she
wanted to rush over to Lin Xiao's room and drag You XiaoMo out
even if it costs her life. She has not even stayed in brother Xiao's
room for over an hour and You XiaoMo actually will be living there!

The few disciples from the same peak who regularly hang out with
Tang YunQi glance at each other. When they first heard about it,
they also didn't believe it.

Among them, a delicate and pretty young girl nods her head, saying

300
with certainty, "Junior sister Tang, this is really the case. I saw the list
yesterday. You XiaoMo's name is listed behind Elder brother."

"Why?"

Tang YunQi complains bitterly.

The young girl hesitates before saying, "It seems as if Elder brother
personally requested that You XiaoMo stays with him."

Tang YunQi grips her five fingers into tight fists, squeezing to the
point that her knuckles turn white and give out clear *pi pa* sounds.
Raging flames flare up in her eyes as if they could shoot out at any
time. She had thought that brother Xiao's interest in You XiaoMo
would not last too long. But now that they are living in the same
room, the relationship between those two are most probably not as
simple as she had imagined.

"No way, this must not be allowed to continue. Brother Xiao can only
be mine."

Tang YunQi grits her teeth and says darkly.

"Junior sister Tang, he is now staying together with Elder brother. I'm
afraid it won't be easy to lay a hand on him."

One of the brothers says awkwardly. Even though he really wants to

harm You XiaoMo, if they were discovered, it would not go well. So,
even though he wants to pander to Tang YunQi, he still has doubts.

"So what, it's not as if Elder brother can be always by his side."

The young girl glances at that brother with a hint of contempt and

301
disdain. Call yourself a man and yet you don't even have an ounce of
courage.

"That's right, they can't always be together. Brother Xiao also has to
compete. At that time, You XiaoMo will definitely be by himself, the
perfect time for us to act. Anyway, I have another option."

The hesitation in Tang YunQi's eyes is immediately replaced with

viciousness. She has to make You XiaoMo pay or else the future
would not be smooth.

Looking at the ice-cold expression in her eyes, that brother can't help
but shiver. Thinking it over, he still says hesitantly, "Junior sister
Tang, I think it's enough if we just teach him a lesson ba. He is after
all Master Kong's personal disciple. If something were to happen and
it gets traced back to us, what will we do?"

The young girl glances at him and says with a smile, "Brother Liang,
you seem to be lacking in courage ba."

Brother Liang knits his brow saying: "Junior sister Liu, this has
nothing to do with courage. I only feel that even if you want to teach
him a lesson, it has to be within limits. If something serious happens,
who will take the blame? Don't tell me you will?"

The young girl's face darkens. She glares at him but doesn't say a
word.

No matter what, Tang YunQi already made up her mind to take

advantage of this opportunity to teach You XiaoMo a good lesson
and warn him to stay away from Lin Xiao.

At the same time, under a big tree not far behind them, a black

302
figure stands. It's not certain how long he has been standing there.
What is certain, is that he heard everything Tang YunQi and company
were discussing. A flash of light appears in those dark black eyes
when he hears a certain name.

Right now, You XiaoMo is forced by Ling Xiao to take a tour of Lin
Xiao's room. There is really nothing to see in Lin Xiao's room. If Lin
Xiao was a girl, then there might be something worth seeing. It might
also arouse some interest in You XiaoMo. After all, no matter if it's
this lifetime or the last lifetime, he never had the opportunity to visit
a girl's room.

In his previous life, he had an older brother and a younger brother.

What was lacking was an older or younger sister. He was the second
oldest and didn't receive much attention at home. His family didn't
really bother about him so when the time came to take the high
school exam, he purposely chose an elevator school that would allow
him to go straight to university and is also far from his home. He
didn't want to stay in the dorms so he rented a room outside. As a
result the tragic him dropped dead before he could experience
university life.

Wiping away imaginary tears, You XiaoMo's thoughts finally drift

back to the present. Looking around Ling Xiao's room, You XiaoMo
still feels a little envious. Even though there is nothing worth seeing
in a man's room, the quality of the room is not bad.

Compared to his bare room that can't be any more bare, Ling Xiao's
room can undoubtedly be described as high class and luxurious. The
wood is not the ordinary red birch wood but thousand year white
wood. Continuously emitting a light fragrance. It not only calms the
heart and bolsters spirits, it also has excellent protective properties.
It is said that only the seniors get to enjoy this privilege. So the fact

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that Lin Xiao was given this room shows clearly his superior status.

At this time, You XiaoMo whose heart is bursting with envious

bubbles has no idea that Tang YunQi and company are quietly
plotting against him.

"Why is there only one bed?"

You XiaoMo comes out from the inner room, finally feeling
something is off. When he was looking around, he was trying to
figure out what feels not quite right. The room has a bed, a table, a
tea set, a wardrobe, all the usual things. But he feels that something
is off. Only when he walks out and sees Ling Xiao sitting by the table
and drinking tea does a sudden flash of realization dawn on him.

Ling Xiao puts down the tea cup and raises the corners of his mouth,
"It's a room for one person, how many beds do you think is needed?"

You XiaoMo points to himself and says dryly, "What about me ne?
Where am I going to sleep?"

Ling Xiao reveals a what would be considered a wicked smile in You

XiaoMo's eyes, and says frivolously, "Of course you will be sleeping
with me ah!"

If a fan were to appear in his hand, he would definitely look just like
a local tyrant forcefully abducting a maiden, smiling lewdly at the
small white rabbit in front of him.

You XiaoMo immediately turns into stone!

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Chapter 62 - Sit on my lap
It takes almost two hours before You XiaoMo accepts the reality that
he has to share the same room and the same bed with Ling Xiao. But
because the time for the competition is fast approaching, he has no
time to restore his traumatized mind.

Although two people will be sharing one room and one bed, the
Warrior division didn't provide them with beddings and such. Items
needed for washing up are also not provided. All these are up to the
Mage disciples to bring their own. Luckily they all have a magic bag.
Although not huge, it is more than enough to carry these things. By
the time You XiaoMo takes out and arranges his things, the time for
the competition arrives.

Although the Central lineage has fewer people, when a big group of
people descend on one spot, it is still a sizable number. A dense mass
of people sit spread out in various areas. One of the areas is for the
elders of TianXin sect. It is located right in front of the arena, fifteen
chairs in a row. Ten of them are already occupied by elders, the ones
that have not arrived are probably the big shots, so they would show
up last.

Another area is for the participants. The participating disciples seem

to have all arrived. Some have their eyes closed, resting their mind to
properly prepare for today's competition. Some are chatting with
their brothers. On the whole, the atmosphere is pretty good. There's
definitely none of the cold attitudes just because they might be
facing each other later.

The last area is for the mages. Although not many, most of them are
already in attendance, including the one that hates You XiaoMo right

305
to her bones, Tang YunQi.

When the two of them appear, the looks could almost be felt
physically. The most lethal one is the one from Tang YunQi.

You XiaoMo had long expected that the princess would turn up at
the Central lineage so he had prepared himself mentally. But it still
shocks him. There must be an unbelievable amount of hate
condensed into that glare. He has no doubts that if looks could kill,
he would not only be dead but also without an intact corpse.

Butting against the pressure, You XiaoMo lifts his foot wanting to
head to the mage area but his arm is suddenly seized.

Ling Xiao frowns at him, "Where do you think you're going?"

You XiaoMo freezes for a moment before pointing at the mage area
saying, "Go there ah. That is our area. I just saw that Second brother
is also there."

"There are too few people over there. You can just follow me to the
competitor seats."

Ling Xiao glances at the mage disciples that are continuously looking
over at them. He doesn't like how Tang YunQi and company are
looking at You XiaoMo.

"Ah? Is that alright?"

You XiaoMo didn't expect that Ling Xiao would say that.

"I say it is so it is."

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Ling Xiao says that and doesn't ask his opinion again before dragging
him by the arm to the competitor seats.

You XiaoMo quickly adjusts his steps to avoid falling over in front of
everyone. It's a while before he says: "But, the competitor seats
seem to be fully occupied. Where am I going to sit if I go over there?"

Ling Xiao turns around and glances at him with a slight smile, "Even if
there isn't a seat, I will make it so there is. If not, you can also sit on
my lap. I don't mind."

You XiaoMo slips and almost falls. Luckily his arm is being held by
Ling Xiao. After getting over the shock he gnashes his teeth saying:
"But I mind!"

What 'sit on my lap'? He is a man, not a girl. If that were to happen,

not only will he completely lose face, he will most probably also
drown in other people's spittle. At that time, even if he were to jump
into Huang river, he won't be able to get clean!

Ling Xiao shrugs indifferently.

Just when You XiaoMo is being led by Ling Xiao to the competitor
seats, flames of rage almost shoot out from the eyes of Tang YunQi
who is seated with the mages.

The extreme jealousy is even more intense than the time she heard
that they would be sharing the same room. She had thought that
once he comes over, she would definitely give him a dressing down.
But he didn't even give her the chance. If Tang YunQi had a
handkerchief in her hand, it most probably would have been torn to
bits.

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"Junior sister, could it be that Elder brother Lin knows about our
plan?"

"Probably not."

Tang YunQi says with a dark face. They came up with the plan on the
spot. At that time, there was no one else around so they couldn't
have been overheard. Furthermore, with her status as the daughter
of the Grand Master there are only a few that dare to offend her.

"Then it most probably is just a coincidence."

The person speaking suddenly lowers his voice.

"Looks like I can only use that method."

Tang YunQi says gloomily. Actually she doesn't want to use that
pawn so quickly. It's only that seeing how Brother Xiao is protecting
You XiaoMo at every turn, she feels that if she were to endure it any
further, she would soon explode.

When every one is lost in their own thoughts, they forget that sitting
among them is a disciple from the same peak as You XiaoMo, Fu
ZiLin. Most probably because he is too quiet, Tang YunQi and
company completely forget that he exists.

On the opposite side, You XiaoMo is being pulled by Ling Xiao into his
camp. There are five rows of competitor seats. Each row has ten
spots. Ling Xiao's seat is in the middle of the first row. A very good
position. To the left and right are Zhou Peng and Qin ShiYu. The both
of them arrived long ago. Zhou Peng sees Ling Xiao dragging You
XiaoMo over and immediately stands up and gives up his seat
voluntarily. The junior brother by his side also stands up and readily

308
gives up his seat to him, running to the back seats.

Seeing this scene, You XiaoMo is at a loss for words. These people
are too nice. No wonder Ling Xiao was so confident.

With the passing of time, the Grand Master Tang Fan finally shows
up. He brings along a few high level seniors. The Central lineage
disciples are core disciples so it is only right for them to receive all
the attention. After that, Tang Fan as before starts by saying some
encouraging words. Since this is a friendly competition, the fights will
only go so far.

After saying a few opening remarks, Tang Fan retreats back to the
seats giving way to the judge, an elder named Jiang.

"This year's friendly competition will be held by drawing lots, just like
last year. The people who are chosen will get on the arena. The first
one to fall from the stage will be the loser. The one who voluntarily
admits defeat will also be the loser. I hope you all will act according
to your abilities. Now we will begin drawing lots."

After Elder Jiang says this, a junior brings up a square box. In order to
prove that there is no funny business, Elder Jiang shakes the box
forcefully in front of everyone. He then puts his hand inside and
takes out two pieces of paper.

Opening the pieces of paper, Elder Jiang says forcefully: "The first
one is Zhou Peng. The second one is Lin Xiao. Please get into the
ring!"

Immediately a huge commotion erupts under the stage. This is only

the first first fight and already the two of them are chosen. Really too
much of a joke.

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Everyone knows that the relationship between Zhou Peng and Lin
Xiao is very good. Furthermore, even though Zhou Peng is not as
strong as Lin Xiao, he is still among the top ten. Looks like one of the
two will have to be eliminated.

Note:
show of strength after getting off the horse - severity shown by
newly appointed official

310
Chapter 63 - Lifespan
You XiaoMo reflexively looks over at Ling Xiao. The latter is not the
least surprised. A smile like the spring breeze is still hanging on his
face, elegant and dignified. Just like a noble prince. Looking over, You
XiaoMo's mouth twitches as he sees the junior sisters over to the
side acting like maidens shyly peeking at Ling Xiao with what can only
be described as extremely bashful expressions. You XiaoMo has
never understood why girls like this type of men.

The called upon Zhou Peng is the first to enter the arena. Standing at
1.8-1.9 meters, his figure is very imposing. He has a strong, sturdy,
tall and straight figure with the tension in his muscles vaguely visible.
Especially the muscles on his arm, under a layer of clothing, one can
almost feel the energy. On his back is a five hundred catty heavy
double-edged sword, the heaviest sword there has ever been in
TianXin sect. From this, one can infer that Zhou Peng should be the
strength class martial artist.

Standing on the stage, Zhou Peng doesn't wait for Ling Xiao to join
him. Instead, he cups his hands saying: "I didn't expect that my first
fight will be with Elder brother. Truthfully, I, Zhou Peng is very happy.
After all, there are not many times when I can spar with Elder
brother. But I know my own strength. The me now is not able to
defeat Elder brother."

Everyone is looking at him in surprise. These words, can it be he's

going to give up this fight?

In the elders area, a light flashes in Elder Jiang's eyes. He suddenly

darkens his face saying, "Zhou Peng, even if you are no match for Lin
Xiao, there is no harm in trying. Furthermore, just from one fight you

311
can find out how big is the gap between you and Lin Xiao. Blindly
chasing will do you no good."

Zhou Peng laughs heartily, "Thank you Elder Jiang for your advice.
Unfortunately, yesterday when Elder brother was giving me some
pointers, I had an enlightening experience. My training is showing
signs of a breakthrough so I am going to go into seclusion for a few
days."

"Since it's like that, you can get down ba!"

The Grand Master Tang Fan's serious face finally shows a hint of a
satisfied smile. Zhou Peng is his direct disciple. When he got onto the
stage Tang Fan could already tell that is almost at the point of a
breakthrough. After not seeing him for a few days Zhou Peng's
training is again one step higher, making him feel a little surprised.
Now, hearing his words, he learns that it is the work of his Elder
disciple. This makes him feel at ease. As their Master, he is the one
that is most clear about the relationship between those two.

Seeing that the Grand Master has already decreed, Elder Jiang says,
"So I'll declare that Zhou Peng withdraws from the first fight. The
winner is Lin Xiao."

That said, an enthusiastic applause breaks out under the platform.

Among them, the one clapping most loudly is actually Tang YunQi,
her pretty face flushed bright red in excitement.

You XiaoMo also applauds, but not strongly. Listening to the

applause, he feels that his palms hurt just from listening to it. Is it
really necessary to clap so strongly? It's not as if a leading celebrity
has arrived.

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Everyone had thought that they would be able to witness a tiger vs.
dragon match. But no one expected that before the fight even
started, Zhou Peng already withdraws.

For some people, it would be wrong to say they are not

disappointed. These few months there have been very few chances
to see Lin Xiao's power. Although the number one position in the
Warrior division is still his, there are certain disciples of overweening
ambition that are not willing to accept being weaker than Lin Xiao.

The saying is right. Know yourself and know your enemy. Then you
can fight a hundred battles and win a hundred battles.

If Lin Xiao's strength were to be revealed a little, the later opponents

of Lin Xiao will have a higher chance of winning. So there are quite a
few disciples, and even certain elders that wish to know how
powerful Lin Xiao is. It's too bad that this good opportunity
disappeared when Zhou Peng withdrew. Although unexpected, it is
still quite reasonable.

Following that, is the second fight. Elder Jiang is again the one to pick
names.

This time, there is no unexpected withdrawal. The opponents are

one male and one female. Because it is a mixed draw, this result is
very normal. Of course no one will say that it is unfair. In Long Xiao
continent, it is also equally important for women to increase their
power. If not, they will end up as playthings to be trifled with.

The both of them are in the top twenty rank of the Central lineage.
There is not a huge gap in between them, so their strength is well-
matched. Giving and taking, an all out fight. Everyone looks on full of
interest. No one is still talking about the first fight. No winner is

313
determined after one hour of fighting but in the eyes of the higher
level martial artists, the winner is already clear.

Just a little bit later, the woman falls from the stage. The reason is
insufficient strength.

The man standing on the stage cups his hand towards the woman
and says politely, "Big sister Yang, you've let me win!"

Elder Jiang again stands out and announces the winner. Right after
that is the third fight. This time it is a fight between two men.

As a man, You XiaoMo also had dreams of becoming a top notch

warrior. Flying over masts and walking on walls, smashing rocks with
one strike, he feels that this is especially manly. Most importantly,
delicate girls love this kind of strong men.

But dreams are just dreams. Its relation to reality is just like how
North is to South.

Of course, it's not as if he has never gone to the gym or signed up for
karate and taekwondo classes. It's just that he has no talent for
martial arts, because from head to tail he is a complete dunce when
it comes to sports. His sense of balance can't be any worse. The
simplest physical education test, the high jump, he has never gone
above half a meter. He still remembers a physical education test,
precisely the high jump. The result was he was the worst in the class.
Even the fattest girl in the class did better than him. This became the
biggest shame in his life.

But it can't be helped. He really has no talent for sports. So seeing

other people display their powerful style, he feels from the bottom
of his heart, admiration, jealousy and hate. Why does he not have

314
the talent for martial arts? He had thought that by crossing over, his
new body would be able to change his previous situation. But he
ends up as a mage, lacking in fighting ability, delicate and weak.

Ling Xiao looks over at You XiaoMo looking at the stage with a
complicated expression. He raises his brows, "What are you thinking
of ne?"

You XiaoMo returns to his senses and glances resentfully at him. He

lowers his head dispiritedly, "Why can't mages cultivate super
powers?"

Ling Xiao gets what he is thinking. Looks like he got upset looking at
the fight happening on stage. He laughs freely, "There are ten
thousand beings on heaven and earth. Some have, some have not.
Heaven has given you a great power so some other things must be
taken away. Although it is true that mages can't cultivate super
powers, the magic pills they refine are very important to martial
artists. Martial artists are also the same. Although they are strong,
they need to face many dangers. The two can be said to have an
interdependent existence."

"I heard that martial artists have very long lives. If the mage dies,
wouldn't they have to look for another one?"

You XiaoMo also knows that what he says is reasonable. No matter

which world, there can't be a person that is perfect in every way. Just
like the person in front of him. On the outside he looks perfect. But
deep inside he really loves to make fun him, extremely evil.

Saying that, You XiaoMo sees Ling Xiao looking at him strangely.

"Who told you that mages have short lives?"

315
"Can it be I'm wrong? But isn't it true that mages can't cultivate
special powers? Then how can the lifespan be lengthened?"

You XiaoMo exclaims in surprise. He had always thought that to be

the case.

Ling Xiao looks at him as if looking at a complete idiot. He lifts his

hand and raps him on the head saying angrily, "Who says you're not
cultivating special powers? Your usual refining magic pills, isn't that
cultivating special powers? The book I gave you, don't tell me you're
not practicing? How can there be someone as stupid as you? Didn't
your master and brothers tell you?"

You XiaoMo holds his head as his tears start to swim. They really
didn't ma! If he wants to know, he still has to ask.

"But, that book, isn't it for cultivating that ....... soul force?"

Speaking those last words, You XiaoMo purposefully lowers his voice.
After all, Ling Xiao already said that alchemical techniques to
cultivate the soul force is very rare. Although he is now a disciple of
Kong Wen, he still is not allowed to practice the alchemical
techniques from TianXin sect because he has not been in sect long
enough.

What he doesn't know is that Ling Xiao had long ago set up an
illusion around them. What the others see is not two people talking
but two people looking earnestly at the competition.

A smile seeps into Ling Xiao's eyes as he looks at You XiaoMo and
elegantly spits out one word, "Idiot!"

316
You XiaoMo pouts and looks at him miserably.

This is not his fault. He came to this life late. How would he know so
much? Although he had borrowed quite a few books from the
library, the books do not record these things. He also didn't hear the
other disciples talking about it so he assumed the others also don't
know. So he had always thought that mages have very short
lifespans.

But he also can't tell Ling Xiao that he was transported over from
Earth. Even given ten times the courage, he still won't dare to say
that.

Ling Xiao likes to see his resentful appearance. Although this habit is
abnormal, he doesn't mind being abnormal. Satisfied with bullying
him, Ling Xiao finally magnanimously tells him all about the lifespans
of mages.

"Mages and martial artists are the same. Although the way they
cultivate special powers and the type of special powers they cultivate
are not the same, the lifespan is comparable. Furthermore, mages
usually have more secure lives. That's because they don't have inner
demons and such things. They also won't accidentally fall into the
dark side because of improper practices."

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Chapter 64 - Lei Ju's provocation
You XiaoMo's eyeballs spin one round, finally discovering a crucial
point, "Can it be that the lifespans of mages is tied to cultivating the
soul force?"

"That's right."

Ling Xiao finally feels that he is not beyond redemption, actually able
to figure this out. At least he is a teeny bit better than an idiot,
"When mages refine magic pills, they have to stimulate the soul force
in their body. So while refining magic pills, the body is also being
cleansed. This soul force comes from your soul. Furthermore, the
soul is the foundation of the body. As long as the soul survives, the
body will also survive, understand?"

"Elder brother Ling, you're so awesome. You even know these

things."

You XiaoMo looks starry-eyed, in adoration at Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao seems to be affected by his expression but immediately

looks away calmly. He then haughtily ridicules him, "That's just
because you're too stupid."

You XiaoMo immediately puts away his foolish smile. He now realizes
that this person can't be flattered. He won't even feel grateful after
being flattered, "Elder brother Ling, as long as mages keep on
refining magic pills and keep on training their body through their soul
force, they would have an eternal life?"

Ling Xiao smiles slightly at him.

318
You XiaoMo wants to smile back at him unconsciously but he
suddenly remembers that every time he smiles, it is not a good thing.
So he immediately holds it back. Of course, a second later, he hears a
haughty voice ridiculing him.

"Idiot! Of course not!"

You XiaoMo humbly asks for clarification, "Then what does it mean?"

Ling Xiao says seriously, "Not all mages can live forever and never
grow old. This has to do with inborn talent. The higher the level, the
longer the lifespan of the mage. The soul will also be stronger. When
the soul gets strong enough, they can even attack other people."

Hearing the last part, You XiaoMo's eyes light up. He has always
thought that mages are weak people without any fighting power.

"Elder brother Ling, is what you said true? As long as the mage's soul
is strong enough, it can be used to initiate attacks on others? There is
no need to wait for attack from others before striking back?"

You XiaoMo says excitedly. He feels as if all the blood in his body is
boiling.

"Of course, but it is only possible for high level mages."

Ling Xiao reveals a row of spotlessly white teeth towards him. He

then looks on smugly as You XiaoMo looks as if he had just been
splashed with a bucket of cold water. *ze ze ze* This excites him
every time.

You XiaoMo was indeed splashed with water, not cold water, but ice

319
water. It's really too damned unfair. His soul is green. His innate
talent restricts him to a mid-level mage. A high level mage
unfortunately would only remain a wishful dream for this lifetime.
After all this talk, he finally found out that mages can have some
fighting power but he does not qualify. If he were to become a mid-
level mage, he should already by burning incense and worshipping
Buddha. After all, green souls are really not much of anything.

The battered You XiaoMo finally loses all interest in watching the
competition on stage. It would only cause him to be envious.

Actually by the time he finished his talk with Ling Xiao, the
competition could be considered fully underway. Other than the
second fight where the opponents were closely matched, the others
are quite far apart in ability. For example, the fifth ranked on the
Central lineage list vs. the fifteenth ranked. This disparity is too wide
so the winner and loser are quickly revealed.

From morning to the afternoon when the sun is almost setting, a

total of twenty five fights were completed while You XiaoMo was in a
daze.

Just when he is rapped on the head by Ling Xiao, he raises his head
just in time to see something flying towards him. Immediately a cold
sweat breaks out all over his body. Just when he is trying to figure
out what is going on, Ling Xiao sitting next to him grips his collar and
pulls him slightly to his side.

As for that unlucky fellow caught by no one, he flies straight into the
chair that You XiaoMo was sitting on.

Looking at the painful expression on the unlucky fellow, and the chair
that is now in pieces, You XiaoMo is really grateful that Ling Xiao

320
pulled him away in time. If not, suffering a blow like this, all the
bones in his body would be broken, but .......

You XiaoMo looks over to the arena. A competitor is standing on the

edge of the platform. A gigantic body. His shoulders are almost twice
the width of his. Not only that, the muscles on his exposed arm are
super-exaggerated. This person is also a strength type competitor,
and one that seems even stronger than Zhou Peng. A square face
with thick bushy eyebrows that look as if they have been drawn with
a brush. This is not a handsome man but rather an extremely manly
man!

It's just that his expression makes You XiaoMo uncomfortable. A cold
expression without any trace of emotion. It's as if he purposely threw
his opponent at him, looking provocatively at Ling Xiao.

"Lin Xiao, I look forward to the day I get to fight you."

Lei Ju speaks slowly, raising the corners of his thick lips.

Ling Xiao adjusts his sleeves, raising his head to look at the giant
from the corner of his eyes. The corner of his mouth rise slightly but
his eyes remain indifferent. The target is standing on the platform
and also much taller than Ling Xiao but he still gives off a sense of
inferiority. Just like a ground beetle in the imperial palace. Even if it
were to put on dragon robes, it would still remain only a ground
beetle.

"Junior brother Lei. Then I sincerely hope that you would be able to
last till the end. It would be bad if you were pushed out halfway by
someone else."

"I will wish the same for you. I hope that you won't be crossed out

321
halfway. I really look forward to fighting with you."

Lei Ju smiles coldly. Incomparably self-confident. Other than Lin Xiao,

he is the strongest man. But he is the perennial number two.
Because each them they meet in competition, Lin Xiao would always
crush him.

After this, Elder Jiang stands out and announces the results of the
competition. The next round of the competition will be held the next
morning.

The sun starts to set. The fiery red sun dyes half the sky red.
WuShuang mountain has always had a lot of clouds and as they are
dyed red, the sky simply becomes a magnificent sight. Much more
beautiful that the sights on Earth. You XiaoMo raises his head and
can't help letting out a gasp in admiration. Such a spectacular sight
most probably have never been seen on Earth.

Ling Xiao looks back at him who is looking up at the sky stupidly. His
hands start to itch and he almost raps him on the forehead, "Little
brother, still not leaving? Are you going to spend the night here?"

Spend the night? You XiaoMo unconsciously looks over towards Tang
YunQi. There is an ominous glint in the latter's eyes, scaring him and
causing him to immediately look away.

He would want to stay here overnight only if his head were slammed
in between doors. Furthermore he has an intuition that Tang YunQi is
looking for an opportunity to deal with him. If he were to stay
behind, he can guarantee that what appears in front of everyone
tomorrow would be You XiaoMo's corpse!

On the way back, the other disciples bid goodbye to Ling Xiao one

322
after another. In the end, the one remaining on the road with them,
is the cold as ice Fu ZiLin. As for the one that should also be with
them, Zhou Peng, not even a shadow can be seen. After asking Ling
Xiao, he finds out that Zhou Peng had earlier rushed off to go into
seclusion.

"Yi, doesn't that mean that Second brother will be staying by

himself?"

You XiaoMo nods his head and suddenly realizes an important

matter. If that is the case, then is it possible for him to .......

"Don't even think about it."

The great Ling Xiao that sees through what he is thinking

immediately dismisses his wishful thinking.

"Why not?"

You XiaoMo grips his fists and says indignantly.

Ling Xiao looks at his puffed up cheeks and smiles slightly, "Because
your Second brother won't share a room with you."

Just as he says this, the door next door shuts with a *peng*.

You XiaoMo, "......."

With this, You XiaoMo loses all hope after being soundlessly and
ruthlessly rejected by Fu ZiLin.

The first day in the Central lineage passes very smoothly for You
XiaoMo. There aren't many people that were injured in the first day

323
of competition at the Central lineage. Most of them were light
injuries so You XiaoMo's talent was not put to use. Even if there was
a chance, it would be taken away by disciples from Heaven and
Flying peak. Everyone also wants to leave a good impression on the
disciples of the Warrior division. So compared to others, You XiaoMo
is more lively tonight.

Because he already took the Fasting magic pill, You XiaoMo doesn't
have to go out to eat. Ling Xiao already has no need to eat so he also
doesn't go out.

You XiaoMo sees that Ling Xiao is meditating and has no time to
bother with him. Thinking that he did not take a bath yesterday, he
takes out a set of clothes from his magic bag and enters his
dimension. Before taking a bath, he plucks the mature magic herbs
and places them on the rack. He busies himself for over an hour.
Because he is worried that Ling Xiao would wake from his meditation
and upon finding him not there would think that he had gone out,
You XiaoMo hurriedly takes a bath and immediately leaves the
dimension.

Once out of the dimension, You XiaoMo looks into the inner room.
Unexpectedly, Ling Xiao is still meditating. You XiaoMo thinks that
since it's still early, he takes out his cauldron. After all, Ling Xiao
already knows his secret so it doesn't matter that he sees it. After
that he takes out tens of stalks of magic herbs from the dimension.
This time, it is material for the Spiritual energy magic pill.

Even for level one magic pills, high grade magic pills require twice the
amount of soul force during the refining process when compared to
low-grade magic pills. The last time, You XiaoMo already tried it out.
When his soul force is full, he can refine three pieces of high grade
magic pills in one go. Less than twice when compared to the amount

324
of low grade magic pills. Even though the ratio is very different, as
long as he diligently practices, he would be able to refine more in the
future.

Just when You XiaoMo is preparing to throw himself into refining

magic pills, Ling Xiao opens his eyes in the inner room.

Notes:
ze ze ze - clicks tongue
ground beetle - narrow minded
dragon robes - emperor's court dress

325
Chapter 65 - Black figure outside the
window
You XiaoMo is very absorbed when he refines magic pills so much so
that he wouldn't even realize if someone were to stand right next to
him.

When Ling Xiao walks, he doesn't make a sound. But that is when no
outsiders are around. Because in front of others, he is Lin Xiao, and
not Ling Xiao. But when he sees You XiaoMo using the tea table as a
stone platform to refine magic pills, his lips twitch. He raises his hand
and simply spreads a barrier that cuts off smells.

Although he is not a mage, he still knows that when mages refine

magic pills, the magic herbs will give off a medicinal fragrance.
Especially when it comes to higher level magic herbs, when the
magic pill is formed successfully, that medicinal fragrance will be
even stronger. Furthermore, this is the Central lineage where high
level masters are as many as there are clouds. Any slight movement
will be discovered immediately. If he didn't wake up in time from his
meditation, he would have been in trouble.

Seeing that You XiaoMo doesn't realize his presence, Ling Xiao walks
over to the tea table and glances at the magic herbs. They are all
high grade magic herbs, about thirty stalks. He soon thinks about the
magic herb garden in the dimension. It looks like magic herbs
watered with magic water is not quite the same.

Ling Xiao pulls a chair and sits opposite You XiaoMo. Thinking about
it, this is the first time he sees You XiaoMo refining magic pills.
Seeing that fair and clear face flushed red, Ling Xiao thinks about the
time they first met.

326
At that time, You XiaoMo was far from how he is now, able to calmly
face him. It's as if from the first look, he wanted to avoid him. That's
right, avoid him but not terrified of him. This made him feel very
intrigued, not only because he and Lin Xiao were from different
divisions.

He is someone that is used to being above everyone. A ....... person

that is used to everyone fearing him. So, towards the person who is
hell-bent on avoiding him, You XiaoMo, Ling Xiao was very intrigued.
That's why he threatened him to give up half his soul.

Of course that was just to scare him. The soul is an intact entity. If
one were to give up half, that would mean death.

After that, the more time he spent with him, the more he wanted to
make fun of him. Looking at his furious but not daring to say a word
expression delights him to no end. Just like that, it became only
natural with time .......

If You XiaoMo knows what Ling Xiao is thinking in his heart, he might
take the cauldron in his hands and throw it at him.

But he is already entering the last stage so his mind is even more
concentrated. So he basically doesn't know that Ling Xiao has been
staring at him for quite a while.

A quarter of an hour later and You XiaoMo finally succeeds in

refining a Spiritual energy magic pill. The whole room is flooded with
medicinal fragrance and spiritual energy. The time he used this time
is one third of what he used last time. The speed has increased
significantly. He only needs to practice a little more and he should be
able to catch up to the speed he uses for low grade magic pills.

327
Wiping off the sweat on his forehead, You XiaoMo raises his head
and jumps in fright from the enlarged face before him, "You you you,
how come you're awake?"

Ling Xiao glances at the magic pill in his hand.

You XiaoMo notices his glance and thinks that since this magic pill
was for him anyway, he is just about to hand it over when he sees
Ling Xiao frown and look out the window. Following his gaze, he
looks over ....... and sees absolutely nothing.

"Elder brother Ling, is there anything outside?"

You XiaoMo asks curiously.

"There's someone outside."

Ling Xiao answers indifferently.

"Ah?"

The magic pill in You XiaoMo's hand almost slips out. Terrified, he
quickly uses his other hand to hold it firmly and says anxiously,
"There there there ....... there's someone? How can there be
someone, can that person find out that I'm refining magic pills? If I
get found out, should I run away? But I don't know the way. And I
don't know where to go ei."

When You XiaoMo gets anxious, the words would unconsciously

come out non-stop.

Ling Xiao's serious expression changes into amusement when he sees

328
his over the top nervous behavior. How can this person be so
interesting ne!

"With me here, what are you afraid of? I had already put down a
barrier a long time ago. Even if it was the Grand Master of TianXin
sect himself that comes over, he wouldn't be able to see through it.
What more that mouse outside whose power is only so so. Even if he
were to plaster himself to the wall and try to listen, he would only
think that we have already gone to sleep."

"Barrier? When, how come I didn't know?"

You XiaoMo calms down but is still very curious.

"When you were refining magic pills."

Ling Xiao glares at him.

You XiaoMo lets out an 'oh', no wonder he didn't know. At that time,
he was fully concentrating on the insides of the cauldron so it's only
natural that he didn't realize, "Who is that person outside? Why is he
spying on us?"

"That person is the one who presided over the arena today, Elder
Jiang. He also presided over last year's competition. But nothing in
particular happened. Elder Jiang is a very low profile person but his
relationship with the other elders is not bad. But before today, he
didn't do anything strange."

"Then, what now?"

You XiaoMo swallows repeatedly. It's actually Elder Jiang. Thank

goodness he wasn't discovered.

329
"What else can we do? Of course just wait and see. Or, would you
prefer that I kill him right now to avoid any future trouble?"

Ling Xiao looks at him and somewhat playfully licks the corners of his
lips. It almost seems that if You XiaoMo is to nod his head, he would
immediately go and do it.

A drop of sweat rolls off You XiaoMo's forehead, "How can I like
killing people? You don't misunderstand. Elder Jiang is after all
TianXin sect's senior. It maybe that, that's right, it maybe that he was
just passing by and accidentally bumped into your barrier."

"No need to be so nervous. I wasn't serious about killing him. This is

after all TianXin sect. Killing him would only bring trouble."

Looking at his nervous behavior, Ling Xiao can't help but laugh out
loud.

You XiaoMo ignores his jab and lets out a sigh of relief. He had
thought it would be like that. After calming himself, he realizes that
he is still holding the Spiritual energy magic pill in his hand. He
immediately hands it over looking for praise, "Elder brother Ling,
look at this magic pill. It's a high grade magic pill refined by me."

Ling Xiao had long ago noticed it. Seeing him handing it over, he
immediately reaches out and takes it. He looks and looks, sniffs and
sniffs. This is really excellent, much more fragrant than the flawed
low grade magic pills. Thus he impatiently throws it into his mouth.

Every time You XiaoMo sees this action, he can't help feeling his
heart ache. It's just too wasteful!

330
He has never seen such a person. Eating magic pills like eating
jellybeans. Furthermore, it doesn't matter what grade of magic pills.
It can't be that he isn't afraid that eating too many magic pills will
cause the spiritual energy in his body to wreak havoc, causing his
meridians to go in reverse? Even as he is, he knows that eating too
many magic pills is not a good thing.

After finishing the magic pill, Ling Xiao appears unsatisfied as he

looks at You XiaoMo. Such a tasty magic pill, he really wants to have
his fill.

In one glance, You XiaoMo knows that he still wants more. Thinking
of the magic pills that he refined yesterday in his magic bag, he
simply takes them out saying, "This is a bottle of Fasting magic pills.
There are ten inside. I refined them last night. Make do with these
first ba."

Unexpectedly, Ling Xiao only looks at the bottle in his hand, "Why did
you refine Fasting magic pills for no reason?"

You XiaoMo rubs his head while speaking, "The cauldron I'm
currently using has a small crack on the bottom. I'm afraid that it
may split open at any time so I'm planning on buying a slightly better
cauldron. But I don't have enough money, so I'm planning to refine
Fasting magic pills to sell. I've already asked around. High grade
Fasting magic pills are in relative short supply. Fifty or more pills can
be sold by auction. At that time, the price should be high. These ten
pills are my practice pills. If you want, you can just take them. I will
just refine some more."

Ling Xiao stares at him with an expressionless face. His mouth

suddenly twitches and says as if slighted: "No need. It's the same if
you give them to me tomorrow. Don't think of sending me away with

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your practice pills."

You XiaoMo pouts. He actually thinks I'm trying to pawn them off.
Even though they are practice pills, they are still top grade magic pills
okay. Furthermore, he had never heard him belittle his magic pills
before. And those were low grade magic pills. Furthermore, at that
time he was still a novice. Don't talk about quality, his skills were also
nothing to shout about. Really can't understand what he is actually
thinking!

But since he already said he doesn't want it, he won't insist and ask
to be snubbed. His refusal also suits him just fine ba!

Thinking like that, You XiaoMo simply puts the magic pills back into
his magic bag and starts on the second magic pill.

Because of the presence of Ling Xiao's barrier, You XiaoMo is more at

ease this time. He once again neglects Ling Xiao's existence and
starts refining magic pills as if there is no one beside him.

Seeing that he is ignoring him, Ling Xiao doesn't feel the least bit
angry. He sits back on the chair and looks at him with an even more
complicated expression than before. Just before, when he heard You
XiaoMo saying those words, he felt irritated and displeased. Soon
after an inexplicable feeling arose in his heart.

It must be known that he is someone that can be said to be even

more heartless than demons!

Even so, Ling Xiao doesn't feel disgust. This 'inexplicable feeling' for
the first time is not something he especially detests. It looks like from
the time he started to get together with You XiaoMo, he has become
more and more 'kind hearted'!

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If You XiaoMo knows what he is thinking in his heart, he would
definitely ridicule him silently in his heart. Really embarrassing!

Even though they have not known each other for long, but from the
time Ling Xiao conveniently wiped out the original Lin Xiao, You
XiaoMo had known that he can't be a good person.

This point, You XiaoMo really takes as the truth!

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Chapter 66 - First night
That night, in Ling Xiao's room where outsiders can't see, the
shadow of You XiaoMo from the night luminescent pearl falls on the
window. The still and absorbed appearance is very fascinating. It's
said that that a man is most charming when he is completely
focused. This saying is of course not false. Ling Xiao that is sitting in
front of him, other than occasionally closing his eyes, for the most
time is staring at You XiaoMo.

From the Shu period to the Zi period, You XiaoMo refined magic pills
for a full four hours. He only stops when he uses up all his soul force.

Putting the last magic pill into the bottle, You XiaoMo wipes the
sweat off his forehead. Although his complexion is a little pale, he
can't help from grinning. This time, his speed in refining magic pills
increased again. He refined ten high grade magic pills in four hours.
Much faster than yesterday.

"Elder brother Ling, here are ten magic pills. The taste should be the
same as the one you ate."

You XiaoMo tidies up all the things on the tea table before handing
over the bottle containing the magic pills to him.

Ling Xiao looks at the bottle in his hand and then glances at his pale
cheeks. Just when You XiaoMo thinks that he is going to refuse, he
suddenly takes the bottle and says expressionlessly, "Next time, you
don't have to be so hurried."

Saying that, he turns around and heads into the inner room.

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You XiaoMo, "......."

Bastard, you should have said that earlier!

When he was refining the magic pills, he thought that Ling Xiao was
waiting impatiently for them. That's why he carried on for four hours
non-stop to pump out the ten magic pills. Who knew that when he
finished, he actually said those words. Clearly he tricked him!

After cursing inwardly, You XiaoMo then follows him into the inner
room.

Zi period is equal to the time between 11pm to 1am on earth. It's

now 11pm. Although not especially late, all the lights are out in the
Central lineage. Exactly the time when everything is silent.

When You XiaoMo walks in, Ling Xiao was just taking off his outer
garment. Only a white inner robe remains. His tall slender figure is
vaguely visible under the robe revealing the contours of his muscles.
His manner although indifferent is still majestic and threatening.
Looking on, You XiaoMo's face suddenly flushes, much like steamed
shrimp.

Only now does he remember that he will soon be sleeping on the

same bed as Ling Xiao.

"Little brother, why are you still standing there? Get over here and
sleep."

Turning around, Ling Xiao sees You XiaoMo rooted on the spot
seemingly at a loss. His cheeks were no longer pale like before.
Instead they are bright red. In a glance, he can tell that he is very
nervous.

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You XiaoMo already doesn't know what to do with his hands and
feet. He says cautiously, "Elder brother Ling, I think it would be
better if I put the futon on the floor for myself. Two people sleeping
together is a little cramped. And adding on one more person all of a
sudden, you would also not be used to it ba!"

Ling Xiao curves his lips, "Haven't done it yet, how do you know that I
won't be used to it?"

You XiaoMo is rendered speechless. This type of thing and you still
need to try it first? Nonsense!

Without asking his permission, Ling Xiao walks over to him and grabs
him by the arm and pulls him to the bed. He then says suggestively,
"Little brother, do you need me to help you undress?"

The first reaction for You XiaoMo is to use his other hand to grip his
collar as if terrified that Ling Xiao would really help him undress. But
when he regains his senses he almost falls to his knees. Why did he
react like a woman? It's all Ling Xiao's fault. If he didn't always tease
him with that tone, he wouldn't have developed such a conditioned
reflex!

"No, no need, I'm used to sleeping in my clothes."

You XiaoMo blushes and forces out a seemingly fair and sensible
reason.

Ling Xiao looks him up and down, raising the corner of his mouth:
"Sleeping in your clothes, wouldn't it be uncomfortable?"

You XiaoMo laughs stiffly, "Still OK."

336
Hearing these words, Ling Xiao glances at him ambiguously, "Since
you like it, I also won't force you. Now, it's time for bed ba?"

"Of, of course."

You XiaoMo quickly takes off his shoes, terrified that Ling Xiao will
suddenly change his mind. He crawls onto the bed and immediately
burrows himself into a corner on the inner side of the bed. Then he
furtively pulls a corner of the blanket and wraps himself up in it.

When Ling Xiao lies down, he sees his weak posture like a curled up
turtle. He can't help laughing out loud. Supporting his head with one
hand, he taunts him: "Little brother, do you have to be so afraid? Can
it be that you're afraid that I'll eat you up?"

"No, I think that this is just nice ......."

It's just that it's a little unusual, that's all.

This type of feeling is actually like how two enemies who refuse to
live under the same sky suddenly find themselves sleeping on the
same bed. That feeling is one of extreme awkwardness. Who would
have thought that they would sleep on the same bed one day.
Although Ling Xiao and him are not enemies, he still feels the same
way. That's the feeling that if he were to relax his hands and feet a
little, the other party would do something terrifying at any time.

"As you say!"

Ling Xiao languidly spits out those words, turns over and goes to
sleep, no longer paying any attention to the cocooned You XiaoMo.

337
You XiaoMo makes use of the moonlight from outside the window to
see Ling Xiao closing his eyes. His relaxed and even breathing
suggests that he is already asleep. This speed can almost be entered
into the Guinness Book of Records.

Pulling at the blanket, You XiaoMo feels that the blanket is too small.
He obviously forgot about this when he was putting things in order
earlier that morning.

Because this is originally a one-person room, the blanket will of

course not be too big. Furthermore, Ling Xiao is taller and wider than
him so when he covered himself, he already used up half. On top of
that, he is curled up in a corner, so his body is mostly uncovered with
a huge empty space in between them. With the cold air invading, it's
so cold that he can't stop shivering.

You XiaoMo rubs both of his arms. Looks like he can only tough it out
tonight. Tomorrow he will think of something.

Not long after, sleepiness sets in. You XiaoMo is eventually unable to
ward off his sleepiness, closing his eyes and falling asleep.

Just at this time, the one that should be already asleep, Ling Xiao,
opens his eyes. He turns his head and looks at You XiaoMo curled
into a ball, amusement showing in his eyes. Actually, with his
physique, this type of cool night air is really nothing. He can even
sleep in the ice and snow. He only did this to see how long You
XiaoMo can hold out before getting closer.

Unexpectedly, before that happened, he actually fell asleep!

Shaking his head in disappointment, Ling Xiao takes the blanket and
wraps him up. He then closes his eyes again and quickly falls asleep.

338
Ling Xiao had thought that he would be able to sleep until daylight.
Unexpectedly, in the middle of the night, he is awakened by a warm
body rubbing against him. When he opens his eyes he sees that the
one who should be in the corner, You XiaoMo, sticking to his body
like an octopus with eight feet. He even brought the blanket along
with him except that there is only a corner that is still covering his
thin body. The most of it still remaining in the corner.

Most probably because it sensed a heat source so You XiaoMo's

body unconsciously moved over to rub against the heat source. The
head rests on his chest, and maybe because it's too stiff, so the lips
move as if making some small complaints. But the hands and feet are
tightly wrapped around his body, the body no longer shivering from
the cold, seeming to be in an even deeper sleep.

By the time Ling Xiao realizes what is going on, You XiaoMo is already
hanging onto his body. Every breath he takes is full of his scent.

You XiaoMo is a restless sleeper. Hanging on his body and yet he still
flails around. He accidentally rubs against a certain part on the lower
half of the body eliciting a slight reaction. Ling Xiao's expression
changes slightly. He quickly restrains this fidgeting body. You XiaoMo
then stops moving and looks for a comfortable position. Pouting, he
falls into a deep sleep. Because a certain body is starting to react, the
body becomes hotter and hotter. You XiaoMo feels the increasing
warmth and becomes even more reluctant to let go.

Ling Xiao lowers his head and sees You XiaoMo sprawled on his
chest. His mouth opens slightly suddenly showing his teeth.

Luckily his willpower is extraordinary. If not, something embarrassing

would have happened. Strongly pushing down the reaction, Ling Xiao

339
is no longer able to fall asleep. With his eyes open, he stares at You
XiaoMo for most of the night.

The next day, You XiaoMo wakes up and finds himself sleeping in
Ling Xiao's arms. He jumps in fright and tries to get up.

Unexpectedly this movement affects the eyes-closed but not really

sleeping Ling Xiao. Ling Xiao opens his eyes and glares fiercely at You
XiaoMo. The two arms encircling his waist don't budge. He says
thickly while breathing heavily: "You XiaoMo, just you try and move
again!"

You XiaoMo immediately doesn't dare to move. He shivers and

shrinks back into those arms speaking falteringly, "I, why am I
sleeping here?"

"Why do you think ne?"

Ling Xiao's husky voice spits out those words. Although the voice is
very sexy, it still gives off a sinister feeling.

You XiaoMo shivers. If he knew, then he wouldn't have to ask.

Thinking like this, he feels something stiff and hard poking his thigh.
When he realizes what that stiff and hard thing is, his whole face,
including the ears and neck turn bright red like the color of blood
.......

This this this, this is really too horrifying!

Even though morning vigor is a normal physiological phenomenon

for men, but when he thinks that his thigh is being poked by that
plaything, he feels his scalp getting numb.

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Why is it like this right after he wakes up? Who can tell him ah? Ah?"

Notes:
Shu period - 19:00-21:00
Zi period - 23:00-01:00

341
Chapter 67 - As long as you help me
You XiaoMo is not used to being in such close contact with a man.
But for some reason, with just a slight move, that stiff hard thing
seems to get bigger, pushing against his thigh. Not only getting
hotter but he can also feel it getting harder.

At this time, Ling Xiao's arms, looped around his waist grips him
tighter. Tightening around his waist as if wanting to snap him in two.
You XiaoMo endures until his whole face is bright red. He finally can't
take it any longer. He feels that if he were to keep quiet any longer,
he would really be snapped in two.

"Elder brother Ling, can you let me go first? I ....... soon I won't be
able to breathe."

Ling Xiao glares at him again. Although he doesn't say anything, he

loosens his grip on him.

You XiaoMo feels it and immediately heaves a sigh of relief. He was

almost crushed to death. He then steals a glance at Ling Xiao and
stammers, "Elder brother Ling, since it's no longer early, we .......
should be getting out of bed? Also, you have to compete today ne!"

Ling Xiao doesn't answer, the expression in his eyes profoundly

alluring. The black pupils of his eyes reflect the bright red face of You
XiaoMo.

A youngster of seventeen to eighteen years old. A delicate and fair

radiant face. Not tall but very thin and small body. At first glance, this
person's appearance is not the type that would catch people's
attention in one glance. But after staying with him for a while, it

342
starts to fascinate him, making him want to understand him further.

You XiaoMo is a man of many expressions, frequently revealing all

his thoughts on his face. Someone that is very easy to understand. It
precisely for this reason that Ling Xiao always finds it hard to resist
teasing him.

But You XiaoMo is also the one that is most able to endure out of all
the people he has met before. Clearly feeling wronged, to the extent
that flames are leaping in his eyes, and yet not uttering a single word
and forcing it down. But what he doesn't know is that the more he
does this, the more Ling Xiao will tease him, trying to find his
breaking point.

It's just that he suddenly realizes that You XiaoMo is actually quite
good looking. The fair and clear face that seems to have two pink
puffy clouds on each side. Looking at them, they look like plump,
juicy, and fragrant sweet honey peaches. Enticing people to take a
bite. In fact, Ling Xiao does just that. Lowering his head and taking a
bite out of one of his cheeks. The latter, because of extreme shock,
loses his soul, simply not having any reaction whatsoever.

Luckily Ling Xiao only bites him lightly but it still leaves a faint mark
on You XiaoMo's face.

"Really delicious!"

Ling Xiao licks his lower lip, revealing an unsatisfied expression. A

pair of sharp cheetah-like eyes, fixed on You XiaoMo's flushed pink
cheeks. As if he's thinking of taking another bite.

You XiaoMo's mind that had flown away returns to him when Ling
Xiao says 'Really delicious'. His first reaction is to cover the place

343
where he was bitten and open his eyes wide in shock. With an
expression of disbelief, "You you ....... "

"What about me?"

Ling Xiao smiles until his eyes turn into slits. The irritability he felt
from not sleeping the whole night, immediately disappears when he
sees this expression on You XiaoMo's face.

"You, how can you bite me?"

You XiaoMo puts on a tiger face and says indignantly.

Ling Xiao ponders for a moment then beams while saying, "Because I
feel like it."

You XiaoMo is so angry that his lips start to quiver. He glares at him
saying, "You feel like it so you bite? I'm not a piece of meat on the
chopping block."

Ling Xiao suddenly raises the corners of his mouth, revealing a

cynical and frivolous expression, "How do you know you're not a
piece of meat on the chopping block, en?"

The last syllable is said in an extremely sexy manner, making the

listener feel the magnetism in that rich, deep and low voice.

If the sisters of the Central lineage were here, they would definitely
be squealing in excitement.

It's too bad that the only other person here is You XiaoMo. His whole
attention is focused on the first half of Ling Xiao's words. There's no
way for him to pay any attention to how that last word is different

344
from normal. He is already so angry that his whole body starts
quivering.

"You, what is the meaning of this?"

You XiaoMo gnashes his teeth. Don't think that just because he has
no combat ability, so he can be easily bullied. He is also someone
that can't be trifled with.

"It exactly what you think it means."

Ling Xiao's smile is quite moving. The clearly manly handsome face is
tinged with an enchanting elegance. His tone as light as down, as if in
a pretty good mood.

"I ....... "

You XiaoMo widens his eyes, wanting to object but looking at the
brilliant smile that makes him look like a whole different person, the
courage he drummed up immediately shrivels up. The expression on
his face is also immediately replaced by a cute and pitiful look, like a
bullied damsel in distress, "Wasn't it still fine last night ....... "

Ling Xiao is immediately elated. This fellow was obviously in a fit of

rage, and yet in just a moment, he actually went back to his original
nature. And here he thought that he had grown some balls, actually
daring to talk back at him. But as happy as he is, Ling Xiao doesn't
plan on letting it go just like this. Making him unable to sleep the
whole night, this debt must be paid.

"Little brother, why do you think you ended up sleeping in my

arms?"

345
He also wants to know the answer to this question. Why is it that the
first thing in morning, he finds himself waking up in Ling Xiao's arms!

You XiaoMo thinks that he has a good sleeping posture. Although he

moved out to live by himself in his last life, when he was still living
back home, his parents and his younger brother that lived in the
same room never said that he had bad sleeping habits. So he always
felt that his sleeping posture is very proper, just like that.

But this belief is destroyed today. He really wants to scream that it's
not true but looking at Ling Xiao's expression, it's obvious that
something must have happened last night. If not, Ling Xiao would not
have any reason to say these words!

Thinking like this, You XiaoMo can't help but laugh in

embarrassment, "Did something happen last night?"

In an instant he changes from an indignant and justified victim to the

accused. Furthermore, he is now the helpless person with all the
power now being in the hands of the other person.

Of course, this little lamb, no matter how it tries to disguise itself, it

is still inherently a little lamb. This thing just can't be changed!

A gleam flashes in Ling Xiao's eyes. He lies with a poker face, "Last
night, you ....... after sleeping for half the night, you suddenly woke
up and pressed down on me. And not just that, you had this animal
strength from who knows where and you suddenly wanted to tear
off my clothes. If not for the good quality of my clothes, they would
have been torn to shreds by that animal strength of yours long ago."

You XiaoMo listens until he feels his heart shudder. Analyzing this
long string of words, his heart feels like a well with seven buckets

346
going up and eight buckets going down. Right until he hears those
words 'tear off my clothes', it completely floors him such that he
desperately wants to play dead.

Oh my God, this person is definitely not him. No way. It must be an

illusion. How can he do such things? But looking at Ling Xiao's
expression, he doesn't seem to be lying. He is suddenly thrown into
chaos. This revelation is too explosive. He had never thought that he
has such a ....... uh, 'hot-blooded' side to him.

"Then then then .... after that ne?"

You XiaoMo's tongue is in knots.

"After that?"

Ling Xiao raises his brows and snorts, "Of course I stopped you in
time, but ....... "

You XiaoMo immediately lets out his breath, this is the best thing he
has ever heard. But just as he started to relax, Ling Xiao's 'but' again
makes his heart jump up to his throat, *peng peng peng*, as if it is
about to jump out. There's still more?

"But, but what?"

"Although I managed to stop you, you still held on to me and refused

to let go. On top of that, you wouldn't stop flailing on top of me,
keeping me awake the whole night."

Those last words were said somewhat vengefully.

You XiaoMo's ears appear to be flooded with blood, the temperature

347
of his cheeks also rise to the boiling point. He doesn't dare to look at
Ling Xiao anymore.

No wonder this morning when he woke up, Ling Xiao also

immediately woke up. So he didn't sleep the whole night. If someone
were to press on him and flail about, he also wouldn't be able to get
any sleep. Like this, he really falsely accused him!

"I'm sorry."

You XiaoMo is red-faced, apologizing meekly.

You XiaoMo has his head lowered so he doesn't realize that Ling Xiao
is beaming. Where's the anger? But he still doesn't want to let him
go just like that. So he clears his throat and says, "Don't think that it
will be fine with just an apology. But I can forgive you, as long as .......
"

"As long as what?"

You XiaoMo eagerly chimes in. After all, he's the one in the wrong.

A devious look flashes across Ling Xiao's eyes, "As long as you help
me think of a way to soften that hard stick down there."

Saying that, he intentionally jerks his lower body.

"Ah?"

You XiaoMo is unable to ward off the jab. He immediately jumps up

as if someone stepped on his tail. Luckily Ling Xiao didn't use much
strength to restrain his waist so he breaks free in an instant.

348
Gaining his freedom, You XiaoMo quickly scurries into the corner,
looking at Ling Xiao in shock.

If he didn't look he wouldn't have known, but with one look he jumps
in shock.

His line of sight unconsciously moves to Ling Xiao's lower half. He

sees a huge tent pitched between his thighs. Only separated by a
thin layer of white cloth, the huge ferocious thing is faintly visible.
Thinking that he was just jabbed by that plaything, You XiaoMo feels
his scalp getting numb.

That's really too big ba?

Ah pei, that's not the most important thing now. Ling Xiao actually
wants him to help him .......

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Chapter 68 - Help one another
You XiaoMo squats in the corner, his eyes flickering evasively, "Elder
brother Ling, can you change the conditions?"

"Who told you it is an option? You're the one who caused it to stand
up so you have to make it go down. This is your responsibility."

Ling Xiao says it casually, his expression seems to show that the
matter is solved, looking from above, as if it has nothing to do with
him.

You XiaoMo almost chokes to death on his own saliva. Morning vigor
is also his fault? But, it really seems to be his fault.

"But, but ....... the competition will start soon. I'm afraid we won't be
in time."

You XiaoMo can only go all out looking for excuses.

Ling Xiao sits up and leans on the bedpost, saying leisurely, "You
don't have to worry about the competition. Even if we are late, I
have a way to make sure no one suspects us. Furthermore, if I were
to be disqualified, that would be even better. I'll avoid raising the
suspicion of Tang Fan that wily old fox."

This reason is perfectly logical. Unable to refute it, You XiaoMo can
only try his best to find an excuse.

"After all this talk, are you going to do it or not?" Ling Xiao says
impatiently.

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He doesn't want to continue wasting time like this. If someone were
to come knock on the door, wouldn't that mean his carefully laid out
plans would go to waste?

You XiaoMo jumps in fright at this bluff. He wails pitifully explaining,

"I I I ....... I can't ....... "

This is not a lie. Although You XiaoMo lived up to eighteen years in

his past life, he is still a pure and innocent little virgin. The things that
guys usually do, like watch gay porn, masturbate and such, all these
things he has not done before. This is probably related to his
upbringing, so for most things, this is his first time.

Listening to this, Ling Xiao narrows his eyes slightly, "Don't tell me
you've never consoled yourself?"

"Con ...... console myself?"

You XiaoMo almost spits out his tongue. This term seems familiar.
Seems like something his male classmates whisper among
themselves.

Ling Xiao looks at him with suspicion and suddenly pulls him over.

You XiaoMo didn't expect him to act so suddenly. Unable to react, he

is pulled into his arms and sprawls on top of his body. Before he can
start to struggle, Ling Xiao stretches out a hand and very accurately
grips that between his two legs ....... his little brother.

The pure and innocent little virgin immediately turns into stone!

Ling Xiao doesn't seem to sense the change. He only feels that the
thing in his hand is very soft. He can't help but rub the little brother.

351
The first time for a virgin is very sensitive. With his rubbing and
kneading, the little brother finally starts to change. Slowly stiffening.
Feeling this change, Ling Xiao finally starts to smile. He raises his
head and looks at the red-faced You XiaoMo, saying jokingly, "This
here ....... is really small!"

You XiaoMo is breathing heavily with a flushed face. He feels shame

but he feels even more anger. Actually saying that his thing is small.
Fine, although it is small compared to his, but that's because he is
still small. If he were to grow up as big as him, it definitely won't be
smaller than his. But now is not the time to think about these things.
His very life is still in the hands of another person ne.

"You, you let go now ....... "

Ling Xiao smiles at him suggestively. He scoops him up into his arms,
"Since you can't, let me teach you ba. Believe me, you only need to
be taught once and you will get it. This is after all every man's innate
ability. It's not hard to learn."

Saying this, Ling Xiao simply lifts his green robe to one side revealing
the white pants under the robe. Giving him no chance to object, he
takes off his pants. The half erect little brother eagerly jumps out.

Seeing this with his own eyes, You XiaoMo is so anxious that his eyes
start to redden. He desperately tries to break free of Ling Xiao's
restraints but the latter's strength is not something he can budge.

It must be known that this half-naked disorderly appearance in the

eyes of Ling Xiao is indescribably seductive. Especially the little
plaything in his hands. Because it is still not fully developed, so it is
like he mentioned, a little small. But the appearance is still very
pretty. Fair and tender like a jade pillar, very adorable when it stands

352
up. There's also not a lot of hair. He now believes that this little
fellow is really inexperienced. For some reason, when he thinks of
this, he feels very happy.

Under his expert technique, the little guy quickly releases. The pure
and innocent little virgin's first time shoots into his hand. The musk
scented thick and creamy milky white liquid appears very alluring in
Ling Xiao's eyes.

The one that was forced to ejaculate for the first time, You XiaoMo
doesn't actually feel that much pleasure. Because it is his first time,
so his endurance is very bad. Ling Xiao only teased him a little and he
already shoots his load. The whole person falls into his embrace as if
having lost all his strength.

The cheeks are flushed red. To a little virgin, that pleasurable feeling
just now made him feel so free that he almost cried out. He had
never known that holding his own jade pillar will give him such an
intense feeling. Causing his whole body to heat up as if being burned
by a flame.

"How is it? Was it very good?"

Ling Xiao strokes his head in satisfaction, beaming as he speaks.

You XiaoMo buries his head in his chest. Not daring to lift his head
for now. After a long long time, he says in a weak mosquito-like
voice, "En ....... "

"Then, it's now my turn ba!"

Ling Xiao leans close to his ear smiling suggestively. At the same
time, he pulls one of his hands downwards. That hard like iron stick

353
did not soften even a little bit with time. Its stiffness and
temperature is even higher than before. Separated by a layer of cloth
it already feels like burning his hand. What more if it is direct
contact.

The heat burns You XiaoMo such that he almost withdraws his hand
but his wrist is still being held by Ling Xiao.

But You XiaoMo discovers one thing. His one hand is unable to
encircle Ling Xiao's stick. Shocked, he opens his eyes and looks over.
This one look and he can't help but let out a gasp. This is really too
big. Then he looks at his own and immediately feels inferior. No
wonder he said that his is very small. Comparing the two, his is
basically a bean sprout ma!

The inferior You XiaoMo is somewhat lacking in general knowledge.

Because if had seen other people's stick, he would know that Ling
Xiao's stick is really bigger than normal people's. For normal people,
no matter how big it is, there's no way it can get as big as his.

"Hurry up!"

Ling Xiao breathes heavily and urges the dumbfounded You XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo is startled. Red-faced, he looks at the ferocious stick in

his hands. Although Ling Xiao had helped him out once, but the time
was too short. He basically didn't get the gist of jerking off. He can
only place both his hands on that stick, close his eyes and try to recall
the steps Ling Xiao used to help him.

As expected, a man's ability to learn these things is very strong

indeed!

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So, the good student You XiaoMo goes all out lying in between Ling
Xiao's legs. Struggling with the stick until his whole head is covered in
sweat. But with the passing of time, the time for the competition
gets closer and closer. You XiaoMo's hands start to ache but Ling
Xiao has not ejaculated. The stick is still engorged but without any
signs of release.

You XiaoMo wants to take a break but looking up at Ling Xiao, whose
face is bright red and breathing heavily with desire, he feels that this
is not really a good time to stop. So he can only endure the pain in
his hands and pick up the speed.

Right at this time, Ling Xiao opens his eyes and says tightly, "Do the
top."

Top? You XiaoMo is momentarily at a loss, his vision moving to the

stick in his hands. He finally realizes that there is a clear sparkling
liquid at the top of the stick. He immediately gets embarrassed, isn't
that where the pee comes out?

Looking up he sees the red-faced Ling Xiao with tensed muscles. You
XiaoMo hesitates a moment before pushing down his resentment
and feeling of unease. He uses one of his hands to rub the tip of the
stick. As a result that crystal clear liquid actually increases. He
suddenly finds it quite fascinating. You XiaoMo's playful nature
bursts forth and he fiddles with it repeatedly actually using his nails
to lightly scrape it a few times. Never did he think ........

Ling Xiao suddenly lets out a low growl and the stick explodes in a
shudder. The thick and creamy essence that had not been released
for many years sprays out from the tip in bursts. The quantity is
really considerable .......

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You XiaoMo is scared senseless by this unexpected event so he
basically has no time to get out of the way. So he his whole body is
covered in that thick and creamy essence. Even his face is not
spared.

When Ling Xiao calms down, he sees the dumbfounded You XiaoMo
completely covered in sperm. He can't help but raise the corners of
his mouth. After ejaculating, Ling Xiao is very elated. He uses his
sleeve to wipe You XiaoMo's face and goes as far as to personally
take off the soiled robe from his body. Luckily only the outer robe
was soiled.

"Oh, do have any more clothes?"

Ling Xiao saw him lay out his clothes that morning. But it was only
one set.

You XiaoMo shakes his head in a daze. He still hasn't recovered from
the blow.

Ling Xiao frowns, seemingly displeased, saying, "Don't tell me you

only have two sets of clothes?"

You XiaoMo nods. He definitely didn't buy clothes when he went

down the mountain. It's not because he has no money but because
he feels that two sets of clothes is enough. So he didn't buy any the
two times he went down the mountain.

Ling Xiao looks at him with a complicated expression. He then gets

down from the bed and takes out a white robe from his wardrobe,
"Wear this first. The next time we go down the mountain, we'll go
buy a few sets."

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Saying this, he flings it at him.

You XiaoMo finally recovers. But before he could process being

sprayed all over, his head is covered by the clothes that Ling Xiao
threw at him. After pulling it down, he stammers: "This robe .......
isn't it too big?"

"Even if it's too big, you still have to put it on. Unless you want to go
out in your inner clothes?"

Ling Xiao says as he takes off his clothes. He then takes out an outer
robe from his wardrobe and puts it on.

"Then ....... I'll wear it ba."

You XiaoMo hangs down his head.

If You XiaoMo knew what kind of commotion he would cause when

he goes out wearing Ling Xiao's clothes, he definitely wouldn't have
chosen to wear it at that time.

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Chapter 69 - Trust
According to You XiaoMo, today is the most disastrous day since the
day he entered TianXin sect. Because of this morning's force
majeure, the both of them arrive just in time at the competition
arena.

When the two of them enter the arena, they rightfully receive the
attention of over eighty percent of the attendees. When they see
Ling Xiao, everyone gets excited as usual. But when they see You
XiaoMo, everyone gives him a look of disdain, and then ....... and
then they can no longer tear their eyes away .......

In just one glance, the eyes of over seventy percent of the people at
the competitor and audience seats almost pop out of their sockets.
Each and every one of the wide eyes fix on the one walking out
behind Ling Xiao, You XiaoMo. Oh no, to put it accurately, they are
fixed on the clothes on his body.

A robe the color of the crescent moon. The edges are embroidered
with black and gold silk thread. Simple yet resplendent. Resplendent
yet elegant. It's obviously Elder brother's clothes!

And so, the busybodies start to fill their heads with thoughts of
unspeakable secret events happening in Elder brother's room last
night. Bursts of whispers that can't be restrained rise up.

Ling Xiao appears oblivious, an elegant and proper slight smile on his
handsome face, walking towards the competitor seats.

However, the one behind him, You XiaoMo is not as thick-skinned as

him. When everyone's penetrating gaze falls on his body, the

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scorching hot stares is impossible to ignore. He finally realizes what
an idiotic decision he made.

Just when they are walking past the elders, Tang Fan who arrived just
before them suddenly opens his half-closed eyes. His probing yet
undecipherable gaze scrapes over them, finally resting on You
XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo's legs almost give out. If it wasn't for Ling Xiao catching
him in time, he would have made a fool of himself right there.

It must be said that the stares of the Central lineage disciples already
give You XiaoMo indigestion. So the gaze of Tang Fan is like a
thousand catty gigantic boulder. Pressing on him making him almost
unable to breathe. That feeling is too intense, as if cutting him open
from inside out. As if nothing can be hidden from his eyes. If not for
Ling Xiao propping him up, he almost feels that the secret teardrop
on his chest will be discovered.

"So you're Master Kong's seventh disciple You XiaoMo?"

Just at this time, Tang Fan suddenly opens his mouth.

There's panic in You XiaoMo's eyes. The Grand Master actually

recognizes him? And speaking to him? He recovers after a
momentary daze, not daring to look at him, so he lowers his head
and says, "Yes, Grand Master!"

"En, your Brother Ling is a very good disciple. If you have any issues,
just look for him."

Tang Fan goes on to say. His serene expression looking as if he is

inherently kind.

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Of course the people who have had dealings with him will know, this
is a fake appearance.

As a leader of a sect, Tang Fan has a ruthless heart and a harsh hand.
He places the most importance on TianXin sect. If someone dares to
endanger TianXin sect or his position, even if that person is his own
direct disciple, he won't hesitate to eliminate that person. So when
advertising one's closeness to him, one has to keep in mind not to
touch his lower limit.

"Yes, Grand Master!"

You XiaoMo repeats himself again, except that there is and added
quiver in his voice.

Ling Xiao who is supporting him discovers this immediately. He then

pulls him closer and meets Tang Fan's eyes smiling, "Master, you
don't have to worry. I will take good care of Brother XiaoMo."

"That's good then. The competition is about to start. You should go

to your seats."

Tang Fan nods, and allows them to leave.

"Your disciple takes his leave!"

Ling Xiao says respectfully while bowing with hands cupped before
dragging the weak-kneed You XiaoMo to the competitor seats.

Tang Fan looks indifferently at the retreating backs and after a

moment of silence, suddenly turns towards Elder Jiang at his side,
saying softly, "Elder Jiang, what do you think of the relationship

360
between Young Xiao and that mage You XiaoMo?"

Being called upon, Elder Jiang is composed, "Answering Grand

Master, I think it is very good. Young Lin has never paid so much
attention to any other disciple. So their relationship is a little
unusual. But last night, when I was out on patrol, they had gone to
sleep very early. I definitely didn't find anything unusual."

Tang Fan says seemingly offhandedly, "Young Xiao ever since he

came back from that trip down the mountain, his character seems to
have changed a lot ah!"

Elder Jiang's eyes gleam but he doesn't make any comments on this.

After returning to the competitor seats, You XiaoMo finally heaves a

sigh of relief. He says with an anxious heart, "Grand Master is really
terrifying!"

Ling Xiao hears these words and quietly raises the corners of his
mouth, "He's only but a wily old fox. There's nothing to be afraid of."

"Of course you're not afraid."

You XiaoMo pouts. The problem is he is not him. He doesn't have

that strong of a resistance.

Not long after the two of them take their seats, the time for the
competition arrives. The one in charge is again Elder Jiang. After a
few familiar opening remarks, it's time to draw lots. After drawing
lots, Elder Jiang starts to read out the names of the chosen. Luckily,
this time it's not Ling Xiao for the first match. It's two brother
disciples of similar strengths.

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One of them is the one that challenged Ling Xiao yesterday, Lei Ju.
The other one is ranked ninth on the list, Luo Xia, the one that is
always together with Zhou Peng.

Lei Ju is sitting in the first row. Hearing his name, he stands up but
doesn't immediately get on stage. Instead he turns towards Ling Xiao
and gives him a challenging look, as arrogant as ever.

You XiaoMo feels that right from the beginning, this Lei Ju has always
been targeting Ling Xiao. Especially when everyone was looking at
the clothes on his body, only him was insistently staring at Ling Xiao.
That look carries a feeling of disgust. He can't help but look over at
Ling Xiao only to find his handsome face is still smiling indifferently.

Qie, pretentious bastard. Go ahead and put on an act!

Not longer after the start of the match, Lei Ju adopts a fight a quick
battle to force a quick win method.

Lei Ju and Zhou Peng are both of the strength class of martial artists.
But Lei Ju's explosive force and stamina is stronger than Zhou Peng.
On top of that, his speed is also not bad so he is someone that is not
easily dealt with. Even Zhou Peng would be at a disadvantage going
up against him, what more Luo Xia who is weaker than Zhou Peng.
Even less of a chance at winning.

The two of them exchange over a hundred blows when Luo Xia
slowly starts to lose ground. The right hand holding the sword starts
to shake from the blows.

"Luo Xia has lost."

Ling Xiao says softly.

362
Just when he uttered those words, You XiaoMo sees Lei Ju hammer
his fist on Luo Xia's sword. A clear sound rings out and the sword
actually breaks into two, with the other piece falling onto the stage.
As for the body that receives the blow on the chest, that momentum
causes him to fly off the stage again heading straight towards You
XiaoMo and Ling Xiao.

Just when Luo Xia was about to hit the ground, Ling Xiao suddenly
reaches out and pulls him down.

Luo Xia holds his chest and wipes the blood from the corner of his
mouth. He turns towards Ling Xiao and says gratefully, "Thank you
Elder brother."

Ling Xiao chuckles and nods, withdrawing his hand that is supporting
his back. Right then, You XiaoMo squeezes in. Seeing that Luo Xia is
injured, he quickly takes out a magic pill from his magic bag and puts
it in front of him saying, "Big brother Luo, this magic pill can treat
inner injuries. Try and see."

Luo Xia looks up in surprise and sees a young man looking at him
with concern.

Actually he himself has healing magic pills. It's unavoidable that this
competition would result in injuries so most of the disciples have
more or less prepared some healing medications. But he rarely sees
someone showing such pure concern for him so Luo Xia only
hesitates a little before taking the magic pill and swallowing it down
in front of him.

You XiaoMo sees him take it then starts to smile happily.

363
But he doesn't know that Luo Xia taking his magic pill is in itself a sign
of trust towards him.

This is something that is very hard to obtain. Because many martial

artists will not trust mages without reason. Mages will also not trust
martial artists without reason. Even though they have a mutually
dependent existence, they can also become enemies. Of course, the
quality of the magic pills is also an issue.

You XiaoMo doesn't realize this but Ling Xiao takes notice causing
him to take another look at Luo Xia.

On the stage, Lei Ju doesn't say anything, and again looks

challengingly at Ling Xiao as if saying 'I'm waiting for you', such a look
of bromance ah!

After Elder Jiang proclaims the winner, the next round begins. The
second match is between two sister disciples that have entered the
sect for some time. Women of natural beauty. Although their looks
cannot be compared to Tang YunQi, they still enjoy considerable
popularity in TianXin sect. Their supporters are also not few.

One of them is Liu LiQing. The one is Tantai MiaoYin. Both are
outstanding fresh-faced beauties. But Liu LiQing's character is
stronger than Tantai MiaoYin.

Right after the two of them get on stage, the brother disciples below
start cheering loudly, each with their own camps.

A competition can only be called a competition with this kind of

atmosphere. Like when Lei Ju was competing, the audience was
basically silent. It's obvious that image is also very important.

364
Both of the beautiful women bow towards each other and then
accompanied by shouts of encouragement, start to compete.

One pink and one white, two exquisite figures entangling with each
other. The *keng qiang* sounds of swords clashing continuously
falling on the ears. The graceful figures seem to be dancing, causing
the hot-blooded men below the stage to seethe in excitement. Both
camps cheering until their voices turn hoarse and lungs start to
crack.

You XiaoMo is also very excited. This is exactly the type of adorable
girl in his heart. Not just beautiful, but also strong.

Just when You XiaoMo's eyes are glued to the women, Ling Xiao at
his side is feeling especially bored.

Note:
color of the crescent moon - silver

365
Chapter 70 - Pretentious bastard
In Ling Xiao's eyes, Liu LiQing and Tantai MiaoYin are really just
dancing, floating around without any power at all. This kind of
strength, if they were to take it outside, they would be cut dead by
others in only a few days. Their looks are also so-so. So instead of
looking at the two of them, it would be better to look at You XiaoMo.

Thinking like this, Ling Xiao can't help but move his line of sight from
the two of them to You XiaoMo. Unexpectedly, he finds him staring
with sparkling eyes at the two women on the stage, seemingly
unable to tear his eyes away. For no apparent reason, a surge of fury
rises in Ling Xiao's heart.

You XiaoMo doesn't realize that the person next to him is already in
a bad mood, still staring with rapt attention.

Ling Xiao restrains his anger and says gently, "Little brother, are you
enjoying the sight?"

You XiaoMo nods happily, answering without even turning his head,
"It's awesome, the two big sisters are really something."

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes dangerously, "Oh, is it their fighting skills
that's awesome, or their looks that's awesome?"

You XiaoMo finally reacts, hearing those words, he somewhat shyly

lowers his head, saying in a soft voice, "Both are awesome. Don't tell
me you don't think ....... "

He says as he raises his head and glances over at him. As a result,

that last word remains stuck in his throat.

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"Don't think what?"

Ling Xiao smiles widely as he looks at him.

"Nothing ....... "

You XiaoMo shudders. He is very familiar with this expression. So

familiar that he can't but shiver involuntarily each time he sees it.
Aiya ma, what has happened? This uncle, why is he angry now? He
only knows that every time Ling Xiao gets angry, he's the one that's
in trouble.

"Nothing ma, then what were you looking at with such rapt attention
just now?

Ling Xiao continues to smile slightly.

"Uh, look ....... looking at them fight ....... "

You XiaoMo continues to shake.

"What's so great about a fight?"

Ling Xiao says sweetly.

"Actually ....... actually there's really nothing great about it ....... "

Hearing his saccharine voice, You XiaoMo drops goosebumps all over
the floor.

These words satisfies Ling Xiao. The sweet yet sinister smile on his
face immediately disappears, replaced with 'brotherly affection' as

367
he rubs You XiaoMo's head. He smiles as he says, "Since it's nothing
to look at, so we'll just not look."

You XiaoMo nods his head over and over, but he's silently crying
inside. Elder brother Ling is really terrifying!

At this time, the competition on the stage is entering the final stages.
Unexpectedly, the winner is actually Tantai MiaoYin.

On the stage, the white chiffon dress is fluttering loosely, enhancing

the elegance and gracefulness of Tantai MiaoYin, with smooth glossy
skin, standing high on the platform like a goddess that has
descended from heaven. Because she just went through a fierce
fight, that goose egg-like melon face is stained with two flushed
cheeks, like fresh pink flowers of delicate beauty. The refreshing
gracefulness appears even more charming and moving. This kind of
seemingly gentle and soft beauty, actually winning over the relatively
stronger Liu LiQing.

Liu LiQing who was driven off the stage also clearly did not expect
this outcome, staring dumbfounded at Tantai MiaoYin on the stage
with eyes of utmost disbelief. Maybe she was over-confident. But it
can't be denied that TanTai MiaoYin concealed her power.

From the start she cleverly reserved twenty percent of her strength,
pretending to be evenly matched with Liu LiQing right up to the point
when she exhausted her strength. Then taking advantage of her
thinking that both of them are at their breaking point, lowering her
guard, at this time, she suddenly showed her strength. This was how
she pulled off her surprise attack!

This is a lesson but also a clear show of Tantai MiaoYin's real strength
for all to see.

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"Big sister Liu, you let me win!"

Tantai MiaoYin cups her hands towards Liu LiQing that is below the
stage. Her clear crisp voice is earnest, unaffected and sincere,
immediately winning the hearts of most people. Then she glances as
if by chance at Ling Xiao.

This glance is coincidentally noticed by You XiaoMo who is furtively

looking over there.

But You XiaoMo is not so narcissistic that he would think that Tantai
MiaoYin is looking at him. Although she is indeed looking in their
direction, at his side there is still the 'super awesome' Ling Xiao.

This causes You XiaoMo to lower his head somewhat dejectedly. He

doesn't have what it takes to attract women, especially when he is
together with Ling Xiao. You XiaoMo has no idea that this action of
his unintentionally puts him in Ling Xiao's good graces.

Ling Xiao also noticed Tantai MiaoYin's glance. But because they are
sitting together, he thought that Tantai MiaoYin may be looking at
You XiaoMo, becoming immediately displeased. But when he sees
You XiaoMo lowering his head and not looking at Tantai MiaoYin,
that bit of displeasure is immediately kicked to the corner.

"Little brother, don't be so mournful. It's now only the second match,
there are still a few more after this. Take your time and watch."

Ling Xiao beams while consoling him.

You XiaoMo pouts. Who was it that just forbid him to watch the
competition?

369
On the other side, seeing that Ling Xiao's attention is not focused on
her, Tantai MiaoYin gets off the stage feeling somewhat
disappointed. She had thought that she would be able to use this
competition to let Elder brother take more notice of her. This way
she would have the chance to show more of her good points to Elder
brother.

On the opposite side, taking in her every move, Tang YunQi snorts
derisively. Dare to go up against her for Elder brother? Not a chance
in hell!

Tang YunQi knows that her Brother Xiao is very outstanding. There
are many sisters of TianXin sect that like her Brother Xiao, one of
them is Tantai MiaoYin. Other people may not be able to tell that she
is interested in her Brother Xiao but, she as a woman, can see it as
clear as day. But in her eyes, this rival is of no consequence. She
nows that her biggest obstacle right now is the one sitting by Brother
Xiao, You XiaoMo.

Thinking of this, Tang YunQi glares hatefully at You XiaoMo. She had
wanted to wait until the final stage but seeing You XiaoMo actually
wearing Brother Xiao's clothes, she feels so jealous that she could
die, making her unable to wait any longer.

After a brief interval, the competition starts up again.

The third round, the fourth round ....... the eleventh round, everyone
keeps raising their head in expectation, raising to the point that their
necks have grown longer. The first eleven rounds actually did not
result in Ling Xiao being chosen. One round after another of
disappointment, right up to the last round with only three pieces of
paper remaining in the drawing box.

370
Because there are twenty five people competing in the second stage,
one to one is twelve fights. This way, one will be left over. So the
next draw will be for the the last fight. As for the last remaining piece
in the box, that person will be the lucky one that receives the bye
and proceed to the next round.

Everyone is looking closely at Elder Jiang's every move, full of

anticipation. But the ones that are most anxious are the two brother
disciples that have yet to compete. Thinking that it is highly likely
that they will have to face Ling Xiao, they both lose hope. So the both
of them are praying in their hearts. Please don't let them fight Elder
brother. Let them get the bye or let Elder brother get the bye.

Elder Jiang's face is as calm as water, not the least bit ruffled. Under
the weight of everyone's eyes, he calmly reaches into the box and
slowly takes out two pieces of paper. Opening them up, he glances at
the names. With a barely noticeable frown, he says, "The contestants
for the twelfth fight are Chen Yang and Gao Jun."

This outcome really leaves some disappointed and the rest

celebrating!

The disappointing part is that Elder brother won't be fighting for two
days in a row. This leaves the people that have been eagerly waiting
to see Ling Xiao fight extremely disappointed. The happy people feel
that Elder brother has really good luck. The first stage, Brother Zhou
Peng withdrew. The second stage, he receives the bye. His luck is
really extraordinary.

But there are also those that are both happy and sad - Chen Yang
and Gao Jun. Happy because they don't have to fight Elder brother.
Sad because they are not the ones that received the bye. A really

371
uncomfortable feeling that one rarely experiences in a lifetime.

"Elder brother Ling, your luck is really too good."

You XiaoMo earnestly gasps in admiration. If only his own luck is as

good as this.

"Sometimes good luck is not necessarily a good thing."

Ling Xiao smiles with an unreadable expression.

"Why?"

You XiaoMo asks in astonishment.

This time, Ling Xiao didn't put up a barrier, so the disciples around
him heard what he said. All of them perk up their big ears in an
attempt to listen in. They are also very curious as to why Elder
brother would say these words. Isn't receiving the bye something
that is worth celebrating?

Ling Xiao slowly raises the corners of his mouth, "I already waited so
long. I had thought that soon I would be able to get on stage and
practice my moves, but ....... "

The rest doesn't have to be said. Everyone can come to the

conclusion that he is disappointed that he wasn't chosen and that he
still really wants to get on stage and go for one round.

Hearing these words Chen Yang and Gao Jun immediately thank their
lucky stars. Thank goodness they didn't have to go up against Elder
brother. If by chance Elder brother gets overly excited, wouldn't they
be beaten until they are half dead? Looks like they are the lucky

372
ones. Thinking of this, the two of them immediately feel their spirits
rising.

The only one not tricked is You XiaoMo. He is the only one that
knows that Ling Xiao doesn't want to compete.

Rather than fighting for others to see, he would rather watch others
fighting. That expression is definitely one that is acted out for the
benefit of others. Ling Xiao is essentially an extremely devious
person. It's only that the impression he gives the other disciples is
too good. Especially since he stopped being so ice-cold with the
other disciples. The men seem to have made him someone to model
themselves on. The women seem to have fallen for his fake gentle
demeanor. That's why no one is the least bit suspicious. But as
someone who suffers heavily from his maltreatment, You XiaoMo is
fully awakened.

You XiaoMo exclaims inwardly, you're such a poser ba!

Notes:
congealed fat - smooth, soft and glossy
melon face - oval face

373
Chapter 71 - Jiang Liu
The last match of the second stage ends when Chen Gao
accidentally steps on the edge of the platform causing Gao Jun to
press in and go for the win.

Finally Tang Fan stands up and says a few encouraging words before
dismissing them. Everyone goes back to their own rooms but the
hour is still early. Just three quarters through the Shen period. The
sun has still not set.

Although the competition ended relatively early, You XiaoMo still

found it very enjoyable. Watching his fellow disciples show such
extraordinary skill, he feels even more longing to be as strong as
them. This wish has always been there. It's just that it was
thoroughly beat down by his being a mage. But now it's different
after hearing Ling Xiao say that mages are not as weak as others say.
For example when a mage advances until they are strong enough,
their soul force will undergo a qualitative change allowing them to
initiate attacks on other people. Although Ling Xiao said that only
high level mages will be able to do this, there is always an exception
to everything.

A little over a month ago, since he became Kong Wen's disciple, his
status has risen accordingly. From then on, he is no longer a
probationary disciple so his elevated status now allows him to go to
the second level of the library.

The identity tablet is still the one the old man guarding the library
gave him. But lately with the seclusion and other various things, he
hasn't had the chance to use that tablet. Now is just the right time,
so he decides to go to the library and look around to see if he can

374
find some books on the soul force. On it should be written some
things that he doesn't know. He firmly believes that heaven always
leaves one door open!

Ling Xiao knows that he wants to go to the library so he wants to

follow along. The library is not within the Central lineage so someone
must follow him out. Otherwise, he will be stranded outside by the
barrier.

"What kind of books to you want to borrow?" Ling Xiao asks after
some consideration.

"Those related to the soul force. And also ancient books on magic
pills and magic herbs. The library has multiple levels. I've only been
to the first level so this time I want to go take a look at the second
level."

You XiaoMo conceals his real reason, only saying seventy to eighty
percent of the truth.

"Soul force? Aren't you currently training your soul force? Why do
you need the books?"

Ling Xiao looks directly at You XiaoMo. Reading up on magic pills and
magic herbs will definitely increase knowledge. But he doesn't think
it is necessary for the soul force.

You XiaoMo looks away guiltily, "Uh, there are still a few things that I
don't quite understand."

Ling Xiao raises his brows as he takes in his expression, a smile

appearing on his lips. Not knowing to rein in his expression when
telling a lie. Ling Xiao intentionally teases him saying, "If there is

375
anything you don't understand, you can ask me now. After all, the
hour is still early."

A few drops of cold sweat immediately form on his forehead. You

XiaoMo didn't expect him to actually hit the nail on the head. He
glances at him resentfully and lowers his head as if to let out his
exasperation before revealing his real intention, "This morning you
said that mages can also initiate attacks on other people but it's only
possible for high level mages. You also know how poor my innate
talent is. So I want to see if there are any shortcuts that can enable
me to change the nature of my soul force."

"Are you an idiot?"

Ling Xiao raises his brows at his words.

"I'm not an idiot."

You XiaoMo doesn't know why he said that but he still refutes it in a
soft voice.

"If you're not an idiot then why are you not practicing the alchemical
techniques in front of you and yet insisting on going to the library to
find some lousy shortcut?"

Ling Xiao had always thought that he is very stupid but he didn't
think that he so stupid to such an extent.

You XiaoMo is momentarily stunned but soon realizes what he

means. His eyes open wide as he exclaims in surprise, "Are you
referring to the Heavenly Soul Scroll? Just by practicing it, the nature
of the soul force can be changed?"

376
Ling Xiao raps him on his head, "Of course. Why else would it be
called a top grade alchemical technique!" How stupid can he get?

"Wu ....... That time you didn't tell me that practicing the Heavenly
Soul Scroll will have that effect. I thought that it will only increase my
soul force."

You XiaoMo covers his head as he cries *wu wu*. What kind of thing
is a top grade alchemical technique, he basically has no idea.

"So now you know?"

Ling Xiao looks at his pitiful expression and laughs inspite of his
anger.

You XiaoMo hesitates a little before asking: "Then how long do I have
to practice to get that effect?"

Ling Xiao thinks back to the time he translated the contents of the
Heavenly Soul Scroll, "The Heavenly Soul Scroll has six levels
altogether. The first three levels are relatively easy. But it is quite
difficult to break through from the third level to the fourth level. But
because of that, when you break through to the fourth level, your
soul force will undergo some qualitative change."

"I understand. I will try my best to practice until the fourth level."

You XiaoMo looks forward to that day when he hears this and
immediately resolves to achieve this second goal. The first goal is to
try his best to earn money to buy magic herb seeds. And also there's
the entrance exam a few months later. Although he is already a
formal disciple of TianXin sect, he still has to go through this
procedure.

377
"Idiot!" Ling Xiao sees the gleam in his eyes and can't help flicking
him on his head, "So do you still want to go to the library?"

You XiaoMo turns red, feeling both vexed and embarrassed. He

quickly shakes his head, "For now, there's no need. I'll just go when I
go back. Since there is still a lot of time now, I'll go refine magic pills."

He immediately runs off after saying this.

Ling Xiao looks at his back running away. He suddenly feels that You
XiaoMo would not be able to survive without him. So hopelessly
stupid.

Thinking like this, his heart suddenly swells with satisfaction and
happiness, almost to the point of bursting out of his chest. Ling Xiao
has never felt like this before so he can't help but frown. He seems to
be placing more and more importance on You XiaoMo but it's too
bad that he can't figure out the reason no matter how much he
thinks about it. So he just leaves the room and goes looking for Luo
Xia and the others.

Originally he only trusts Zhou Peng alone because in Lin Xiao's

memory, Zhou Peng is an absolutely loyal person. That's because he
knows Lin Xiao's secret. As for yesterday's competition, Zhou Peng
withdrew precisely because he didn't want his Elder brother to
reveal his true strength. But Zhou Peng's increase in power is also
related to Ling Xiao. In order to appear more genuine, Ling Xiao
intentionally gave him a few pointers.

As for Luo Xia and Qin ShiYu, these two are still at the observation
stage in Lin Xiao's memory. But seeing Luo Xia accept You XiaoMo's
magic pill earlier, Ling Xiao feels that he can test this Luo Xia out. But

378
before leaving, he weaves a barrier surrounding the room.

You XiaoMo doesn't care that Ling Xiao is leaving, taking out the
equipment and materials needed to refine magic pills from his magic
bag.

When everything is ready, a sudden knock is heard from the outside.

At first, You XiaoMo thinks that it is Ling Xiao returning so he is just
about to go open the door when he suddenly realizes that if it is Ling
Xiao, there's no way he would be so polite, so the person outside is
definitely not Ling Xiao. He immediately walks back and puts the
magic herbs and cauldron back into his magic bag before going to
open the door.

You XiaoMo opens the door and sees the person standing outside,
seeming a little surprised, "You ....... "

He forgot his name.

That person sees him and smiles revealing two shallow dimples, "I'm
Jiang Liu. Do you still remember me?"

When he says the name, You XiaoMo immediately remembers. This

is the young man that supposedly came from the same village as him
and was chosen to enter TianXin sect at the same time as him. And
later was taken away by Heaven peak because of his high innate
talent. Also when he first came to, this was the first person he saw so
it left some impression on him.

"So it's you. Is there anything you need?"

You XiaoMo smiles as he asks. He left a pretty good impression on

him from that time.

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"Do you have time now?"

Jiang Liu laughs *ha ha* as he asks.

"Now ah? I guess so."

Although he was just about to refine magic pills, You XiaoMo feels
that this is a rare opportunity to meet up with someone from his
village. He can put off refining magic pills for now since he still wants
to ask about his hometown the Peach Blossom Village to avoid being
found out if he were to meet someone from there.

"Since it's like that, how about we go find some place to have a
chat?"

Jiang Liu's smiling face looks straightforward and good-natured yet

also a little silly.

This suggestion is just what You XiaoMo hoped for so he agrees

without giving it much thought. He goes back into the room and
leaves Ling Xiao a note before going off with Jiang Liu.

Jiang Liu's situation is about the same as You XiaoMo. Although he

only entered the sect for a few months, but since his talent is high,
this time with the grand friendly competition, his master used this
opportunity to let him come gain some experience and get
acquainted with other disciples. His luck is not quite the same as You
XiaoMo because he has a master that really thinks of him but of
course that is because he has talent.

You XiaoMo doesn't know the paths because these few days he
spent most of the time in the room refining magic pills so he is not

380
familiar with the surroundings of the Central lineage. He has no idea
where Jiang Liu is bringing him but the whole way they don't come
across any other disciples from the warrior division. You XiaoMo
feels that they don't have to go so far just to have a few words so he
stops him.

"Junior brother Jiang Liu, where are you bringing me?"

Jiang Liu continues moving forward, as if failing to hear him.

You XiaoMo frowns and simply stops walking, standing at the same
spot waiting for him to realize. It turns out to be an effective move.
Jiang Liu finally stops and turns around because he no longer hears
footsteps behind him. He thinks that You XiaoMo had left, panic
flashing across his face but after catching sight of You XiaoMo
standing a few meters away, he heaves a barely noticeable sigh of
relief.

This is clearly noticed by You XiaoMo who was watching him to see
when he would realize that he is no longer following him. And so, he
can't help but become suspicious.

Notes:
Shen period - 15:00 - 17:00
boat rises with the tide - rise accordingly

381
Chapter 72 - Missing
"Big brother You, why are you not coming?"

Jiang Liu sees his doubtful expression and panic flashes across his
eyes.

Although You XiaoMo will sometimes forget this and that and keep
his head forward while not considering the back, but while in other
people's domain, he still knows to be a little careful. This Jiang Liu
seems a little odd making it impossible for him to follow along
carelessly, especially since he is from Heaven peak.

"Junior brother Jiang, we are just going to have a little chat. There's
no need for us to go so far ba?"

"This ....... the truth is, I have something to show you so I thought of
bringing you straight there."

Jiang Liu stammers while looking for an excuse. In fact, he had

already thought out the possibilities. From the beginning, he didn't
think that You XiaoMo would follow him so easily so he had prepared
an excuse which now comes in handy.

"If I'm not mistaken, this direction is towards the back of the
mountain. The thing you're talking about can't possibly be at the
back of the mountain?"

You XiaoMo says doubtfully. If he isn't wrong, this Jiang Liu should be
like him, this being his first time in the Central lineage.

"Yes, yes it is."

382
Jiang Liu says somewhat anxiously.

You XiaoMo looks at him wordlessly. This person, telling a lie and yet
doesn't know how to lie more brilliantly. Looking at nervous
expression, it's obvious that there is something going on.

Although Ling Xiao always says that he is stupid, no matter how

stupid he is, he still can see that something is wrong. Thinking of
Jiang Liu's situation and how he came to look for him with no rhyme
or reason, it's obvious that he must have been ordered by someone.
As for the person that gave the order, it's most probably the one that
hates him right down to her bones, Tang YunQi. If it is her, then all
this will make sense.

"Junior brother Jiang, I think it is better not to go to the back of the

mountain. After all, this is the Central lineage. It's better if we don't
run around recklessly."

You XiaoMo knows that Jiang Liu could have been threatened by
Tang YunQi. But even though he is sympathetic, he still won't just go
along knowing full well that it would cause him harm. So he can only
say it in a roundabout way hoping that he gets the hint.

Jiang Liu bites down on his thin lower lip, his eyes showing signs of
struggle.

You XiaoMo sees his condition and feels a little uneasy saying, "I
know that Tang YunQi asked you to get me. How about this ba. Go
confess to Tang YunQi that I saw through your plan. I'll let her come
look for me herself. This way, she should not give you trouble."

"Big brother You, it's no use."

383
Jiang Liu takes a glance at him as if wanting to cry and then hangs his
head.

"If Big sister Tang knows that I failed in carrying out her order she
would definitely not let it go. Although I am also a Heaven peak
disciple, but since Big sister Tang knows that I am from the same
village as you, she also detests me. Sometimes she would even bring
some people along to give me trouble. She even threatened me not
to tell Master."

Hearing these words, You XiaoMo frowns deeply. He didn't expect

Tang YunQi to be this type of person. Because she hates him, she
even hates someone just for being from the same village. And using
her status as the Grand Master's daughter to bully Junior brother
Jiang. This behavior is just too shameless. But even though he is
sympathetic, there is nothing he can do. If not for Ling Xiao's
protection, he would most probably be tormented to death by Tang
YunQi long ago.

"Junior brother Jiang, I still feel that you should tell this to your
Master. Your Master took a liking to your potential so he must value
you. If you were to tell him, he will certainly look out for you."

You XiaoMo suggests earnestly and sincerely.

"Thank you. But she is the Grand Master's daughter. I ....... I can't win
over her. My master can help me but he can't help me with
everything."

Jiang Liu's eyes are full of tears but he still looks at You XiaoMo with
gratitude.

384
Being looked at with this kind of expression, You XiaoMo suddenly
feels a little guilty.

If you consider it all, the reason he is being mistreated is all because

of him. If he didn't piss off Tang YunQi, Tang YunQi would not have
shifted her rage onto him just because he is from the same village.
He really did cause trouble for Jiang Liu.

"How about this ba, tell her this for me. Tell her that I will meet her
at the fork in the road we just passed and I will explain it all."

Actually it's not as if You XiaoMo has such noble intentions. Meeting
with Tang YunQi in private is a dangerous thing. But seeing that Jiang
Liu is from the same village and also him being the first person he
saw when he opened his eyes, it's all thanks to him that he was able
to figure out what kind of world he had landed into. Now, seeing that
Tang YunQi is venting her anger on him, he feels that he has to bear
some of the responsibility.

"Is it ok like this?"

Jiang Liu asks with eyes full of tears.

"I say it's ok so it's ok. After all, if Tang YunQi doesn't succeed this
time, she will still come and trouble me so I might as well get it over
with."

You XiaoMo feels the corners of his eyes twitching. He had thought
that Jiang Liu is a young man with a sunny and forthright character.
Didn't expect him to be such a crybaby. His tear glands seem to more
well-developed that a girl's, crying at the drop of a hat.

"Thank you!"

385
Jiang Liu finally stops crying, thanking him wearily.

"En, then you should hurry and go lest she gets angry while waiting
and takes it out on you. I'll go ahead and wait there."

It's too bad he's not a girl, otherwise You XiaoMo may have even rest
his hand on him and use a handkerchief to wipe his face.

"Then I'm going first, goodbye Big brother You."

Jiang Liu waves at You XiaoMo before running of to notify Tang

YunQi.

After Jiang Liu disappears from view, You XiaoMo can't hold on any
longer. Who asked him to act tough? Who asked him to be soft-
hearted? Now he's in for it. Soon he will have to face that crafty and
unreasonable princess Tang YunQi. Actually ....... he is a little
terrified. Thinking it over, You XiaoMo suddenly feels that is is better
if he calls Ling Xiao over. If Tang YunQi really is going to harm him, at
least Ling Xiao would be there. As for Tang YunQi and company,
expecting You XiaoMo to keep the appointment by himself, they
completely won't expect that You XiaoMo would want to involve Ling
Xiao. After deciding this, You XiaoMo hums a tune while retracing his
steps.

Just not long after he leaves, a black figure appears wordlessly at the
place where two of them just stood. The black figure looks
expressionlessly at the direction You XiaoMo was heading, and in a
flash disappears yet again. The afterimage can be seen heading in
the same direction as You XiaoMo.

On the other side, Jiang Liu really brings You XiaoMo's words to Tang

386
YunQi.

Hearing that You XiaoMo actually dares to meet up with her, a look
of delight flashes across Tang YunQi's eyes, "Junior brother Jiang, is it
really true? You XiaoMo is actually waiting for me up ahead? Is it
possible that he knows my plan so he intentionally said that just to
get rid of us?"

"No, he will be there."

Jiang Liu lowers his head so his expression is not readable.

"Fine, I'll believe you ba. I knew it would succeed if I sent you. You
did very well. What comes next has nothing to do with you so you
can leave first. Also, I don't want other people to know about this, so
you know what to do ba?"

Tang YunQi pats his shoulder with satisfaction. Luckily she still has
this Jiang Liu card to play. This time she would definitely teach You
XiaoMo a lesson and let him know just who Elder brother belongs to.

"I understand, Big sister Tang."

Jiang Liu grimaces, showing a slight sneer. It's too bad no one
notices.

And so Tang YunQi sets off in a grand fashion with her footmen in
tow towards where You XiaoMo indicated. Although that spot
usually has a lot of foot traffic, but at this time because of the grand
competition, most people are already resting in order to reappear
full of energy at the competition arena. So there just aren't many
people passing through. This is a miscalculation on the part of You
XiaoMo.

387
Feeling happy and carefree, Tang YunQi and company soon arrive at
the meeting point.

But the image of You XiaoMo standing there waiting for them does
not materialize.

"Didn't Junior brother Jiang say that You XiaoMo will be waiting for
us here? There's just no sign of him. Can it be that we have been
tricked?"

Lackey number one suddenly gets suspicious.

"I think Junior brother Jiang has been fooled by You XiaoMo."

Lackey number two voices out his thoughts.

Tang YunQi's expression flickers ambiguously, "What you have said is

reasonable but according to Junior brother Jiang, You XiaoMo
wouldn't deceive him. Now that there is no sign of him, could it be
that there is some other reason?"

In the end, she is still unwilling to give up on this hard fought

opportunity.

"How about we wait a while?"

Lackey number one asks cautiously.

"Let's do as you suggest."

Tang YunQi says coldly. If You XiaoMo really dares to deceive her,
new hatred piled onto old, she most certainly would not let him die a

388
peaceful death.

It's just that the three of them don't expect that the one they are
waiting for, You XiaoMo won't appear but someone else comes
instead.

Actually, Ling Xiao already sensed it when You XiaoMo left the room.
The barrier he set up not only cuts the room off, it also has the ability
to perceive. No matter who goes in and out of it, he will be able to
sense it. So he knows that someone came over looking for You
XiaoMo but the scent was not familiar to him. In any case, You
XiaoMo followed that person of his own accord.

Thinking of that, Ling Xiao feels that it shouldn't be a problem so he

doesn't pay much attention to it. But an hour later, Ling Xiao finally
feels that something is off. You XiaoMo still hasn't returned and that
is a little odd!

You XiaoMo doesn't know a lot of people especially in the Central

lineage. The person he is familiar with is only Fu ZiLin. Their brothers
from the same peak would also not come looking for him. Even if
they did come find You XiaoMo and called him out, it is unlikely that
Ling Xiao won't know who it is.

After realizing that something is not right, Ling Xiao says goodbye to
his two Junior brothers and goes looking for You XiaoMo by following
his scent.

Note:
lose three drop four - forget this and that

389
Chapter 73 - Kidnapped
The further he goes, the more surprised Ling Xiao gets. He actually
doesn't come across anyone in the Central lineage. Furthermore, the
cold air is increasing. That direction is actually towards the back of
the Central lineage mountain.

The five ranges of WuShuang mountain are enveloped in clouds. Also

the steepest one is the Central lineage, especially the back of the
mountain. Covered in dense forest with hundred year old trees, a
rugged terrain with bizarre jagged rocks, and frequented by wild
animals. Therefore, disciples are usually not allowed to casually enter
the back of the mountain.

You XiaoMo is so weak. If he were to enter the back of the mountain,

wouldn't he simply have no chance of survival?

Thinking of this, Ling Xiao can't help but feel a little irritated. He
immediately picks up his speed and flies towards the back of the
mountain. Just when he is almost reaching the back of the mountain,
at the intersection with other roads, he sees a few familiar figures
from afar. Among them is the one that pesters him day in and day
out, Tang YunQi.

Tang YunQi could be anywhere else and yet she appears precisely on
the road where You XiaoMo goes missing. Is there anything that
coincidental in this world?

Ling Xiao's face darkens, enveloped in piercingly cold air. He appears

in front of Tang YunQi.

Tang YunQi only feels a rush of cold air brushing across her face and

390
reflexively closes her eyes. When she opens them up again she sees
the Brother Xiao that she has been longing for actually appearing in
front of her since who knows when. Right then, she forgets what she
is here for, her face lighting up as she runs towards him, "Brother
Xiao, why are you here?"

The two footmen behind her not only do not show any signs of
delight, their face instead undergo a huge change, looking at the
suddenly appearing Ling Xiao with deathly pale faces.

"You're asking me why I'm here? That's what I want to ask you, Little
sister. Can you tell me? What are you doing here?"

Cold glinting eyes sweep over her, seeing her act as if it is all a
coincidence, he feels even more nauseated towards her.

Hearing these words, the smile on Tang YunQi's face immediately

disappears as she remembers what she is here for.

Turns out the one they are waiting for, You XiaoMo, doesn't appear,
instead Ling Xiao appears. What is the meaning of this? If this was
under normal circumstances, Tang YunQi would definitely be very
happy to have this 'chance encounter' with Ling Xiao. But right at this
moment, if he finds out that she was intending to harm You XiaoMo,
the consequences ....... she doesn't even dare to imagine, "This ....... I
was taking a walk with my fellow disciples, and unexpectedly we
ended up walking all the way here."

Tang YunQi explains nervously. The ten fingers under her sleeves are
already balled up tightly and turning white, deathly afraid that she
would be found out.

A barely perceptible violent look flashes across Ling Xiao's eyes and

391
immediately fades away. In an instant, he resumes his gentle and
refined demeanor, "Little sister really came out for a walk? This is the
forbidden area behind the mountain. You all actually strolled all the
way to the back of the mountain. Can it be that something happened
that can only be dealt with behind the mountain?"

"No, no, Brother Xiao, you're worrying too much. We really just came
out for a walk."

Tang YunQi quickly denies, then lowers her head not daring to look
at Ling Xiao anymore.

Ling Xiao smiles gently but his eyes are as cold as ice, "Since it's like
that, then did Little sister see You XiaoMo? I just came across
someone on the way here. He told me You XiaoMo was following
someone unfamiliar heading in this direction. Could it be that Little
sister came across them?"

"You XiaoMo?"

Tang YunQi immediately acts as if she has no idea, "Don't have ah,
we didn't see him at all on the way here. If Brother Xiao doesn't
believe it, you can ask Big brother and Big sister. We were together
all this time."

"Elder brother Lin, Junior sister Tang is telling the truth. We were
together all along and definitely did not come across Junior brother
You."

Not waiting for Ling Xiao to ask, the two footmen immediately back
up Tang YunQi's words.

"Brother Xiao, I remembered that I still have some things to take care

392
of. If you have nothing else, then I'll leave first."

Tang YunQi is worried that if they were to stay any longer, You
XiaoMo would suddenly appear. If the two sides were to meet, then
their words would be exposed. So she can't wait to leave this place,
even starting to take a step when she finished speaking.

"Not so fast."

Ling Xiao suddenly orders loudly.

Tang YunQi jumps in fright. Standing rooted on the spot, she

stammers while looking at Ling Xiao, "Brother Xiao, is there anything
else?"

"You all are sure you don't know where You XiaoMo is?"

Ling Xiao turns and fixes his eyes on her wavering eyes, stressing
each and every word.

The three of them uniformly shake their heads. You XiaoMo told
them to meet up here. But from the time they arrived until now,
they didn't even catch a glimpse of him. So they really didn't see You
XiaoMo, not to mention know where he is, although Jiang Liu might
know.

Ling Xiao assumes that they wouldn't dare to lie to him, so he can
only let them leave.

Tang YunQi and company immediately run away in a panic as if

having received a huge pardon, terrified that they will be called back
by Ling Xiao as they run.

393
You XiaoMo's scent definitely has not disappeared. Ling Xiao looks
down the road towards the back of the mountain. If he is not
mistaken, You XiaoMo and that person should have headed further
in. What makes him surprised is that other than the scent of Tang
YunQi and the other two, there is actually a scent from another
person.

Ling Xiao stands on the spot pondering for a moment with an

unreadable expression. He suddenly leaps into the air and with
fluttering sleeves disappears down the small road in the direction of
the back of the mountain.

At the same time, in the pitch black and full of sinister energy back of
the mountain, a black figure runs quickly through the forest, carrying
a person on his shoulder. His speed is very fast, occasionally scaring
out some wild beasts, but in a flash, they are all left far behind, right
until an endless wall of dense vines appear in front of them. The
black figure stops and parts the entangled wall of vines revealing a
pitch black cave opening, walking right in without any hesitation.

At first it is dark everywhere, but as they gradually head inside, the

surroundings get brighter.

You XiaoMo opens his eyes and immediately the brightness stabs his
eyes causing to him to close them again to get used to the light.
When he reopens them, he feels as if he has gone up to heaven .......

The vast white world seems to be like work of the gods. Exquisite ice
sculptures are everywhere. Sculptures of beautiful women,
landscapes, plants, animals, as if anything you can think of is here.
Each piece seems to have been meticulously carved. Such a colossal
project, if it wasn't done by over hundreds or thousands of people, it
probably couldn't have been completed in a short time.

394
This is a very huge mountain cave. A thousand zhang in width, a
hundred zhang in height. There are no openings at the top, as if the
whole mountain cave is set inside a mountain.

This ice carving world seems to have existed for a very long time. The
refreshingly cold air is not bone-penetrating. Although You XiaoMo
can feel the whooshing cold, he can still bear it.

The black figure walks forward a few steps and not caring if You
XiaoMo has awakened, just suddenly throws him down.

An 'ai yo' cry is heard. You XiaoMo didn't expect to be suddenly

thrown down so he is too late to stop himself from falling on his butt.
The floor is a hard piece of ice. Falling on it almost causes his butt to
break into four pieces.

You XiaoMo rubs his butt while grimacing as he looks up.

The black figure is a man. His whole body is wrapped up in black

clothes like a ninja, including his hair. So he can only see the cold
dark eyes of the black figure, cold dark eyes that are looking at him.

You XiaoMo shudders, who can this person be?

In the whole TianXin sect, other than Tang YunQi that is always
causing trouble for him, he has not offended anyone else. He had
thought that this person could have been sent by Tang YunQi but
upon further consideration, it doesn't add up. If Tang YunQi had
already prepared this move, she wouldn't have needed to send Jiang
Liu to lure him out to meet her.

But if it's not Tang YunQi, he really can't think of anyone else that

395
would want to harm him.

"This ....... Elder, I don't seem to know you. Why do you want to
capture me?"

You XiaoMo swallows and swallows. This person doesn't look like
someone easy to deal with. From before until now, those eyes have
looked at him coldly, as if wanting to peel off a layer of his skin.

"Wait here. If you dare to run, I will cut off your legs."

The black-clothed person says with sinister and cold eyes. Saying
that, he turns around and leaves. You XiaoMo waits for him to
disappear before crawling up, patting his still painful butt.

Of course he won't do as the black-clothed person says and

obediently stay there waiting to die. It is obvious from the look in his
eyes, that person is treating him as a dead man. He guesses that the
black-clothed person is probably capable of killing him at any time.
Only a fool would stay waiting.

Turning around he sees that the whole mountain cave is full of ice
sculptures. This is his first time seeing something so beautiful. It's too
bad that he has no time to appreciate it.

You XiaoMo sighs. He walks lightly like cat to the cave opening. It has
already been a while so that black-clothed person should have
already left ba.

Trusting to luck, You XiaoMo lifts his leg wanting to go out. He

suddenly feels an electric shock. A jolt of electricity flows from his
toe spreading to his whole body. This familiar feeling scares You
XiaoMo causing him to quickly withdraw his leg, standing trembling

396
at the cave opening for a moment.

Bloody hell, there's actually a barrier?

This feeling is definitely not unfamiliar to You XiaoMo. When he went

to the library for the first time, because he didn't know a thing, he
jumped in fright when he touched the barrier on the bookshelves.

But because of this, he gets an important piece of information. That

black-clothed person can actually set up a barrier. That means his
power is not low. Thinking of that pair of piercing eyes sharpened by
age, it must be an elder from TianXin sect. It definitely must be!

If this is the case, wouldn't his chance for escape be even more
distant and improbable?

Just when You XiaoMo was going round and round in panic, a set of
hurried footsteps can be heard drawing near.

Note:
zhang - 3.3m

397
Chapter 74 - Eating people?
You XiaoMo immediately thinks that the black-clothed person is
back so he quickly runs to hide behind the closest ice sculpture.

Because the ice sculpture is very large, and You XiaoMo is relatively
thin, his whole figure is concealed when he hides behind it.

The hurried steps do belong to the one You XiaoMo expected, the
returning black-clothed person. It's just that his expression is more
nervous now than it was before he left. After rushing in, his face
darkens when he doesn't see any sign of You XiaoMo. Now he
realizes that not tying him up was a miscalculation.

The ice cave is very large. Furthermore all along there is this strange
atmosphere that cuts off martial artists' perceptive power. If You
XiaoMo really wants to go into hiding, he wouldn't be able to find
him easily.

The black-clothed person stamps his foot. What a miscalculation!

Feeling that the wind behind him is getting stronger and stronger,
the black-clothed person has no time to run in and look for You
XiaoMo. He takes out the sword that is always be his side and runs to
hide next to the cave opening as the sound of the whistling wind
draws near.

When it appears to reach the cave opening, the black-clothed person

cries out loudly and with a swift and violent motion brings down the
sword in his hand. A 'qiang' sound is heard. The sword misses its
mark, hitting the ice floor. The strange thing is, the ice floor that
received that powerful blow actually shows no trace of it. But the

398
black-clothed person has no time to think about these things.

The strange wind enters the ice cave and turns into a person. This
person is none other that the one chasing after You XiaoMo's scent,
Ling Xiao.

Hiding behind the ice sculpture, You XiaoMo stealthily pops his head
out and sees Ling Xiao appear out of thin air with his own eyes. He is
immediately stunned. What is the meaning of this? Isn't Ling Xiao a
man? How can he appear out of thin air?

As if answering his question, the black-clothed person shouts in a

grave voice, "You are not Lin Xiao!"

The tone is one of a hundred percent certainty.

"You say I'm not Lin Xiao. How are you so sure?"

There is not the least bit of alarm on Ling Xiao's face. A slight smile
appears on his lips as he looks at the black-clothed person, as if they
are just chatting about trivial things, and not hostile adversaries.

The black-clothed person snorts, knowing that he is putting on airs,

"No matter how great Lin Xiao is, he is not someone that can
understand these underhanded moves. On top of that, these days,
all your strange actions do not match up with Lin Xiao. In fact, you're
just not Lin Xiao!"

"Brilliant! A really brilliant explanation!"

Ling Xiao claps his hands in delight. His manner is like the spring
breeze in March, so gentle that is almost makes people want to
drown in it. His slightly open red lips casually tosses out an explosive

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statement, "Then you ne, Elder Jiang? In fact, you are also not the
real Elder Jiang ba?"

The pupils of the black-clothed person suddenly contracts. Seeing his

confident look, it's obvious that just like himself, this person is also
certain that the other is a fake. But his identity is very important so
before he kills them, he can't admit it. So he says in a cold voice,
"Letting me see through you and now you want to pull me
underwater with you? This move of yours is quite impressive but too
bad it's of no use!"

"Haha, a man that is about to die, is there any need for me to drag
him underwater?"

Bright laughter overflows from Ling Xiao's mouth.

The black-clothed person fiercely widens his eyes, both eyes

reflecting flames of bone penetrating hatred, "Who dies is yet to be
determined!"

If You XiaoMo were standing in front of him, he would definitely

warn Elder Jiang in a gentle whisper not to provoke Ling Xiao at this
time. That's because his smile is getting more and more brilliant.

But right now, You XiaoMo is unavailable. Personally witnessing Ling

Xiao angering Elder Jiang to the point of death with just a few words,
it's obvious that he won't have any problems dealing with Elder
Jiang. He decides to wisely protect himself to avoid being used as a
hostage. If that were to happen, he would only be a burden for Ling
Xiao.

Elder Jiang is intent on killing off Ling Xiao while desperately wanting
to preserve his hidden identity. He launches a series of swift and

400
fierce moves at Ling Xiao.

The attack techniques that Elder Jiang practices can control the wind.
As a mid-level attack technique, he has practiced this set of moves
since childhood. And now after hundreds of years, he can easily
manipulate the air and launch a wind-based attack. And if you add a
sword on top of that, it can change to blades of piercing wind, like
knives covering every inch. If they were to cut a vital point in a
moment of carelessness, it would cause death.

Elder Jiang is very confident of his own abilities because he doesn't

just practice the wind attack, he still has another killing move. It's
just that he won't use it unless the time is right.

You XiaoMo hiding behind the ice sculpture watches with his heart
beating furiously thinking that he is really powerful. But when he just
finishes gasping in awe, he is stunned by the scene in front of him.
When Elder Jiang launches his attack at him, Ling Xiao still doesn't
move.

The long sword rings and vibrates as it stabs towards the unmoving
Ling Xiao. Then a shocking scene unfolds. When the long sword and
wind blades come within one meter of Ling Xiao, they suddenly
freeze in mid-air. No matter how Elder Jiang tries to force them in,
they don't move a single inch.

Ling Xiao smiles as he raises his hand, "Elder Jiang, wind can also be
used this way."

Right after saying this, a fierce strong wind rushes out from Ling
Xiao's palm, flipping Elder Jiang backwards. Immediately, the
motionless Ling Xiao suddenly rushes towards the falling Elder Jiang,
appearing close to Elder Jiang in an instant. He raises his strong

401
slender leg up high and cuts across the air causing an invisible wind
to strike Elder Jiang at his vulnerable abdomen. The whole person
immediately becomes like a piece of rag, flying and crashing into the
ice sculptures under the wall .......

A heavy blow, almost making Elder Jiang unable to get back on his
feet.

You XiaoMo's mouth hangs wide open, stunned at the sight. This is
only a short exchange of blows and Elder Jiang is actually defeated so
soundly?

After finishing off Elder Jiang, Ling Xiao suddenly turns towards
where You XiaoMo is hiding, calling out, "The show is over. Aren't
you going to come out?"

Li Ning says anything is possible. You XiaoMo did not believe that
before but now he does. He silently walks out. Ling Xiao is standing
not far away, his lips raised as if smiling while looking at him. You
XiaoMo pauses before running up to him, "Elder brother Ling, how
did you find me?"

Ling Xiao looks at him up and down deep in thought as if looking to

see if he is hurt. He then says, "Of course I followed the smell on
your body."

You XiaoMo, " ....... "

Your real body is that of a dog ba?

"Now, what are we going to do with Elder Jiang?"

You XiaoMo looks at the faraway Elder Jiang. Because the actions

402
before were too violent, the cloth is no longer covering his face. Even
though the face is covered in blood, he can still recognize him. It
really is Elder Jiang. Thinking back, that time when Elder Jiang was
spying on them outside the room, he must have had another motive
ba.

"Knowing my secret, of course it's death."

Ling Xiao says without a care. To him, killing is easier than eating.

"Yi, don't you want to ask him why he wants to kill you?"

You XiaoMo asks in surprise.

Ling Xiao's pretty bright eyes suddenly flash wickedly towards Elder
Jiang. He says extremely confidently, "I don't need him to tell me. I
can figure it out myself."

You XiaoMo is just about to ask when he remembers something.

Since he has a complete hold on Lin Xiao's memory, he must have a
way of getting hold of Elder Jiang's memories. Although he doesn't
know how he does it, he can't help but think that this ability is really
too awesome. Why doesn't he have it ne?!

Just at this moment, Elder Jiang that was lying as if dead on the
ground suddenly arches up and roars upwards. Then a frightening
transformation unfolds. Just like that time in HePing town when they
saw the demon Luo Shan. His outer shell suddenly bursts open,
lifting high his four limbs, with bulging flesh, the yellow skin gradually
turns to the distinctive black of demons. The red blood vessels
expand suddenly under the skin, twitching sharply, especially
terrifying.

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Before the time it takes for five breaths, Elder Jiang's transformation
is complete. He's actually just like Luo Shan, a half demon.

The bodies of demons are stronger than that of humans. After

transforming, although it won't eliminate the inner injuries that were
incurred earlier, it is much better than before. The scarlet dot in the
middle of the black eyes slowly shift until they fall on Ling Xiao who is
standing a few meters away. A burst of bloodthirsty killing aura fills
the air.

In a flash, Elder Jiang's transformed demon body disappears from

that spot and in the next instant, the demon appears to the right side
of Ling Xiao. A fist three times the size of a human fist booms
towards Ling Xiao's face.

"Asking for death."

Ling Xiao snorts coldly. In a flash, he seizes his wrist and forcefully
twists it. The bones go *ka cha* and the right hand is immediately
useless. But the demon seems impervious, raising up his other hand.
Ling Xiao raises his palm towards his head and attacks. Not sure if it
was because the strength was too great but it actually snaps off the
head. The terrifying demon head suddenly hangs backwards
lifelessly.

You XiaoMo, " ....... "

And so the seemingly super strong demon is crushed by Ling Xiao in

just a few moves.

Ling Xiao casually throws down the dead and done with Elder Jiang.
He turns towards the stunned You XiaoMo and says, "Next, I'm going
to suck up his memories. You can choose to close your eyes."

404
You XiaoMo swallows and swallows. He hesitates before shaking his
head. He wants to know.

Ling Xiao doesn't try to convince him. He raises his left palm. A round
seal suddenly appears on his before flawless palm. He sees him place
his palm on Elder Jiang's forehead. His lips move as if chanting a
spell. Then the demon's body starts to shrivel up bit by bit. Slowly
getting smaller. In the end, the whole body disappears. Only the
black ninja clothes remain on the floor.

You XiaoMo turns into stone. Did he eat up Elder Jiang?

Note:
Li Ning says anything is possible - Li Ning is a Chinese sportswear
brand. Anything is possible is their old slogan.

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Chapter 75 - First awakening of love?

Able to magically adopt other people's appearance. Eating magic pills

like eating jellybeans. Able to change into evil wind. Extraordinary
strength. Most importantly, he can actually eat people!

Although he doesn't know how he did it, You XiaoMo is sure that the
suck up memories he was talking about definitely includes sucking up
the the person that holds those memories. He feels that he is very
very close to understanding the what really happened but no matter
how much he thinks, he can't push through that last barrier.

After completely digesting Elder Jiang's memories, a memory chip-

like thing emerges floating in some corner of Ling Xiao's
consciousness. Elder Jiang's memories is recorded on that chip.

This is also one of his abilities. After absorbing other people's

memories, he will store them independently to avoid letting them
get mixed up with his own memories. Lin Xiao's memories was also
handled this way. When he has need for it, he only needs to have the
intention and he will be able to see those memories.

Ling Xiao opens his eyes and looks askance at the stunned You
XiaoMo. The corners of his lips rise slightly, "Terrified?"

"Eh?"

You XiaoMo's soul was floating beyond the highest heavens when he
suddenly hears someone talking to him. He comes back to his senses
and sees Ling Xiao looking at him, his dark eyes hiding unreadable
rays of light. He can't help but ask, "Just now, what was that?"

406
Ling Xiao sees his puzzled face and restrains the glint in his eyes,
suddenly smiling, "It's nothing. Just one of my innate abilities, that's
all."

Innate ability? You XiaoMo thinks that this way of saying things is a
little strange.

"Oh right, is Elder Jiang like that demon Luo Shan? Also sent by
demons to lie low in TianXin sect and act as a spy?"

"En, Elder Jiang has already lay hidden in TianXin sect for a hundred
years. In the beginning there indeed was a young man with the
surname Jiang. But before that person could develop his fighting
skills, he was already replaced by the current Elder Jiang. For a
hundred years, he did not step beyond his bounds, not revealing a
single clue. This time, if not for an order from the higher ups, he
would not have taken the risk to eliminate me."

Ling Xiao says offhandedly.

"Why do they want to get rid of you?"

You XiaoMo is very curious.

The demons actually risked exposing their valuable set piece in order
to take out Ling Xiao. It only goes to show how they view Ling Xiao as
a nail in the eye that must be pulled out.

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his mouth and smiles at him, "Take a
guess."

You XiaoMo immediately loses his smile, glancing at him and says

407
hesitatingly, "Can it be because you killed that Luo Shan?"

"Close."

Ling Xiao smiles and nods slightly. His unparalleled radiant handsome
face looming at him.

Close? You XiaoMo thinks back carefully. At that time, Ling Xiao
really did kill that demon Luo Shan in front of a lot of people. And
later, because of that incident, it was exposed that the demons sent
spies to lie low in other sects. It was said that quite a few spies were
dragged out. Can it be because of that? You XiaoMo says uncertainly,
"Can it be because you destroyed their grand plan?"

"Close."

Ling Xiao continues to nod his head but still doesn't give him the real
answer.

"Then I don't know."

Already guessed up to this point and it is still not right. You XiaoMo
really can't figure it out.

"Idiot! Giving up so easily."

Ling Xiao rebukes him lightly but the expression on his face is one of
absolute delight, "The reason the demons sent Elder Jiang to kill me
is because they think I have a way of discerning half demons. So they
want to get rid of me as soon as possible."

Talking about his, You XiaoMo suddenly remembers.

408
Indeed, at that time, Ling Xiao seems to know beforehand that Luo
Shan is a demon. Furthermore, usually half demons won't reveal
their true appearance unless they themselves intend to. And with
Luo Shan's identity, he definitely wouldn't reveal his true form in
front of so many people. So the demon commander must think that
Ling Xiao forced Luo Shan to transform. If that's the case, Ling Xiao
really has the ability to see through half demons. No wonder the
demons want to get rid of him.

"Elder brother Ling, what are we going to do now? Although Elder

Jiang is a half demon, but if we were to reveal his identity, we will
also fall under suspicion."

Thinking of this, You XiaoMo can't help but be worried for Ling Xiao.
Elder Jiang is the chair of the competition. If he doesn't show up
tomorrow, the Grand Master will definitely send people to look for
him. If it is discovered that he died here, it doesn't matter if his
identity is revealed, everyone will still be suspicious.

"You don't have to worry about this matter. I know what to do."

Ling Xiao says, the least bit affected.

You XiaoMo stares at him for a while and then suddenly cries out in
alarm, "Don't tell me you're going to let someone else pretend to be
Elder Jiang?"

Hearing these words, Ling Xiao examines him carefully for a while,
his bright handsome eyes showing surprise. He then laughs, "Little
brother, this method of yours is not bad, but ....... where are you
going to find someone to pretend to be Elder Jiang?"

Hearing the first part, You XiaoMo is about to smile when he hears

409
the mocking words that follow. He immediately holds back his smile,
"Then what is Elder brother Ling planning?"

"You know during yesterday's first stage competition, why was it that
I and Zhou Peng were chosen for the first round?"

Ling Xiao doesn't answer his question. He walks around Elder Jiang's
ninja clothes. Suddenly he uses his toe to push lightly at one corner
of the ninja clothes. Immediately what sound likes identification jade
tablets can be heard.

"Can it be ....... he wants to test out your strength?"

You XiaoMo's eyes suddenly light up.

"That's right."

Ling Xiao squats down and picks up that jade tablet, "Lin Xiao is the
Grand disciple of the warrior division. Quite a bit of prestige. But
these two years, he has been concealing his true strength. Elder Jiang
has very little contact with him so in order to ensure that he can kill
Lin Xiao, he planned to use the grand friendly competition to test out
his strength. He didn't expect Zhou Peng to ruin his plans so he can
only look for another opportunity to make his move."

You XiaoMo didn't expect things to actually be so complicated.

Thinking back he feels that something is not quite right, "Elder Jiang
wants to kill you. What has that got to do with me? Also how did he
know that I would go out with Jiang Liu this afternoon?"

Ling Xiao suddenly rubs his nose, shifting his gaze away from his face.

"Elder Jiang heard Tang YunQi and the others talking two days ago.

410
He knows that they were planning to deal with you so he based his
plan on theirs. He'll wait for Tang YunQi's people to lure you out,
follow behind and then kidnap you ....... then try to frame your
disappearance on Tang YunQi, oh, something like that."

"No way ba. You mean I was dragged in?"

You XiaoMo says in shock. He had thought that he had somehow

offended someone.

"More of less ba."

Ling Xiao says these words somewhat guiltily but You XiaoMo doesn't
notice.

"Looks like the Central lineage really doesn't agree with me!"

Ling Xiao actually leaves out a few things. That includes Elder Jiang
seeing that they share the same room, and furthermore, You XiaoMo
wearing his clothes, so he had guessed that they could be lovers. So
he thought that if You XiaoMo would to go missing, he would
definitely be in complete chaos, and that would be the perfect time
to make his move. That is the real reason!

The reason why he doesn't tell You XiaoMo is because of that one
word, 'lovers'.

It must be said that this word makes him feel as if enlightened. The
hazy feelings he has towards You XiaoMo these few days becomes
clear in an instant. Turns out the reason why he is always teasing You
XiaoMo is because he likes him?

The great Ling Xiao can't figure it out since he has never been in love.

411
Who knows what a person in love is like?!

But because of the thoughts of Elder Jiang, the look Ling Xiao gives
You XiaoMo is no longer purely a teasing or joking one. Instead there
is an added thread of something inexplicable and complicated. He
thinks that he might have fallen under a spell!

"Let's discuss this after we leave ba."

Ling Xiao keeps the jade tablet.

This jade tablet is only given to the Elders of TianXin sect. Because it
is used as a form of identification, they are usually unique. On top is
carved Elder Jiang's name. He only needs to engineer some fake
evidence of his coming to harm and make sure that the timeline
doesn't line up with theirs. In this way, the suspicions won't fall on
them.

"Fine. Ai no. I just discovered something. Wait for me a bit."

You XiaoMo also wants to leave here as soon as possible, but when
he was hiding behind the ice sculpture, he seems to have seen
something he wasn't supposed to see.

Ling Xiao turns around and sees You XiaoMo run towards the ice
sculpture he was hiding behind just now. He raises his brow and
follows him. He finds that You XiaoMo is squinting, looking
absorbedly at that ice sculpture. But it's only an ice-cold ice
sculpture. What's there to see?

"Elder brother Ling, help me take a look. What is frozen inside this
ice sculpture?"

412
You XiaoMo notices that Ling Xiao is standing at his side. He hurriedly
waves at him his eyes bursting with excitement.

Ling Xiao glances at his face that is flushed with excitement. He

suddenly feels that this face that usually seems ordinary suddenly
starts to move him. He quickly shifts his line of sight, "It actually
looks like a magic herb. But this ice cave is a little strange. It seems to
have some kind of contraption that can cut off the super perceptive
powers of human martial artists. This magic herb is also buried right
at the core of the ice sculpture making it hard to discover if not
studied carefully."

"Is there a way to take the magic herb out?"

You XiaoMo looks at Ling Xiao, his heart full or hopeful wings.

Caught off guard, their eyes meet. Ling Xiao looks away abruptly, his
heart can't help but fill with curses. Why is this fellow becoming
more and more lovable every time I look at him?

413
Chapter 76 - Looting ice sculptures
"Elder brother Ling?"

You XiaoMo calls Ling Xiao. He feels that Ling Xiao is a little strange
today.

Ling Xiao coughs, "It's not that there is no way, it's just that my way
would probably damage the magic herb inside, so we have to find
another way. When I came in just now, I discovered that the
construction of this ice cave is a very unusual. It doesn't seem like it
is man-made by hatchets and chisels. Instead it feels as if it was
formed by spiritual energy.

You XiaoMo takes a deep breath. There really is a very strong

spiritual energy.

This is really awesome. It's so unexpected that such a magical place

exists in WuShuang mountain. If it was really formed by spiritual
energy, then all the ice sculptures in this ice cave may be made of
super concentrated spiritual water.

"Elder brother Ling, if these ice sculptures are really made from
spiritual energy, then how can we take out the magic herb?"

You XiaoMo's face fills with hope. It's not as if he doesn't have magic
herbs. But those are level one, two and three. Level four and above,
he doesn't have a single stalk.

That's why he is excited when he sees the magic herb inside the ice
sculpture. Because he already saw it in Kong Wen's courtyard so
although he doesn't know what level it is, it must definitely be level

414
four and above.

"You can try using the soul force."

Ling Xiao suggests gently while looking at him.

You XiaoMo immediately closes his eyes and does as he says,

releasing his soul force and slowly covering the ice sculpture. And
then a shocking scene happens. When You XiaoMo's soul force
touches the ice sculpture, the naked eye can see that the ice
sculpture melts quickly. Seeing this, You XiaoMo immediately puts
forth more soul force. The originally half the size of a person ice
sculpture immediately melts to form a pool of spiritual liquid with
shocking spiritual energy. The magic herb that was enclosed in the
spiritual liquid shakes lightly, with leaves as fresh as jade, with no
signs of damage.

You XiaoMo immediately takes out a small spade from his magic bag.
With light hands and feet, he digs out the magic herb along with the
dirt around its roots.

This stalk of magic herb is in a very good shape. It's obvious even to
the naked eye that the roots, stems and leaves are bursting with
spiritual energy, to the extent that it is even better than the magic
herbs watered with magic water in You XiaoMo's dimension. Maybe
it's because it has been growing all along in a place full of spiritual
liquid, so it is always bathed in the perfect environment, unlike the
magic herbs in his dimension, only watered three or four times.

After admiring it endlessly, You XiaoMo transfers it into his

dimension by thought.

"Elder brother Ling, which do you think is better? This spiritual liquid

415
or the magic water in the dimension?"

You XiaoMo uses his hand to scoop up a handful of spiritual liquid,

feeling as if the concentration of the spiritual liquid is higher than
that of the magic water.

Ling Xiao had moved elsewhere to check things out when he was
digging out the magic herb. Hearing his words, he doesn't even
hesitate before replying, "Of course magic water is better."

"Why?"

You XiaoMo turns around and asks.

"This ice cave was formed because there are a lot of contraptions
underground. Those contraptions mutually act on each other to form
this inconceivable phenomenon. But the spiritual liquid in here only
absorbed the spiritual energy from WuShuang mountain and was
formed by compression. If we consider the purity, it can't compare to
the magic water in your dimension. But ....... "

Ling Xiao doesn't even turn back, landing a kick on a sculpture of a

beautiful figure. His foot lands squarely on the face of the beautiful
ice sculpture. You XiaoMo turns to look and can't stop from pouting,
continuing from his words, "But what?"

"But this spiritual liquid is not of no use. You can store them up and
use them as leverage."

Ling Xiao turns around, a sinister aura is suddenly apparent in his

smile. You XiaoMo sees this and feels his spirit waver wondering if he
is mistaken.

416
"Are you saying to give away the spiritual liquid?"

You XiaoMo says in surprise.

"Thats right, spiritual liquid to the mystics of LongXiang continent is a

very rare treasure. It can be used to grow magic herbs, and it can
also be used like how you use the magic water to replenish the soul
force. That's right ....... "

Ling Xiao suddenly turns around, his profound eyes shining as he

looks at You XiaoMo, "Didn't you say that you were going to auction
off the magic pills? This spiritual liquid can also be auctioned off."

"Really?"

You XiaoMo's shrewd eyes suddenly light up.

"Of course not."

Ling Xiao feels the itch in his heart. Why did he not find this pair of
eyes so lively before? Because of that, on a whim, he automatically
teases him again.

You XiaoMo's beaming face immediately falls. Bloody hell, actually

deceiving him at this time. Does he have to be that mean ah?!

When Ling Xiao sees the look of resentment on his face, he

immediately recovers. He clears his throat and laughs *ha ha*, "Just
kidding. Of course it's real. This spiritual liquid would probably fetch
a much higher price than your Fasting magic pill. Alright, hurry up
and take all the ice sculptures. We have to rush back before the
patrol."

417
You XiaoMo glares at him saying, "There aren't many barrels left in
the dimension. Probably not enough to hold the spiritual liquid."

Ling Xiao thinks it over and comes up with a way, "First, don't melt
the ice sculptures. Try to see if you can cut them out using your soul
force. If you can, move them in chunks. This will be more efficient
and much faster than melting them into spiritual liquid."

You XiaoMo thinks that his way is not bad so he starts to do as he

suggests.

Since the soul force can melt the ice sculptures, so cutting them is
not a difficult thing. A controlled soul force in the form of thin beam
cuts across the bottom of the ice sculpture. Soon the ice sculpture
separates from the floor and is moved into into the dimension by
You XiaoMo. A smooth glossy surface like a mirror remains on the
cut surface of the floor.

Finding this method very effective, You XiaoMo energetically throws

himself into it.

Because Ling Xiao has nothing to do, he helps out by looking to see
which ice sculptures has magic herbs or other good stuff hidden in it
and then tells You XiaoMo to let him come cut it.

Both of them working together, the speed is pretty fast. In two

hours, they cut away one twentieth of the ice sculptures in the ice
cave. You XiaoMo is the first to stop because his soul force is about
to be depleted.

"Lets stop here for today. We'll find another time to come again
later. You have already harvested quite a lot, enough to use for
now."

418
Ling Xiao walks to his side and puts his arm under his armpit and
hauls the weak him up from the floor.

You XiaoMo nods. Although he wants more, the harvest this time is
quite a lot. Other than the pile of ice sculptures in the dimension
piled up like a small hill, there are also ten over stalks of magic herbs.
But because he doesn't recognize magic herbs of level four and
above, they are also piled up together for now.

When the two of them leave the ice cave, the sky is already dark.

The back of the mountain is shaded by dense trees that cover the
mountain. When the sky gets dark, it becomes even harder to see
anything. Bleak and dreary cold wind penetrate the bones.
Occasionally the roar of wild beasts can be heard. You XiaoMo can't
help but rub both his arms. His legs are weak. If not for Ling Xiao
holding him at his waist, he would have ended up sitting on the
ground a long time ago.

"I'll piggy-back you ba."

Ling Xiao says in a low voice next to his ear. The hot breath covers his
ear making it both numb and ticklish. You XiaoMo's whole ear turns
red from his breath. He can't help but rub his ear, "Can't you use
some other way?"

Ling Xiao's lips curve up, his smile carries a hint of mockery. He hangs
one of his arm over his shoulder saying, "Little brother. Are you
telling me that you prefer the princess hold?"

"Then piggy-back it is ba."

419
You XiaoMo says immediately. Princess hold? He is not a woman.

"Then get on ba."

Ling Xiao turns his back to him. He bends down slightly revealing the
strong powerful contours of his back, slender with perfect
proportions, with a feel of perfect tension. Even the back is so
perfect, no wonder so many women attack him with such starry-
eyed infatuation. Comparing oneself to him will only make one die of
frustration.

You XiaoMo hesitates a little before climbing on his back huffing and
puffing. He loops both his arms tightly around his neck. Close contact
between men is nothing strange, so in order not to fall off, he also
doesn't act awkwardly bashful.

Feeling the warm body climbing up his back, Ling Xiao reveals a
crafty smile of success. When he straightens up his body, both his
hands firmly grasp the the two perfectly round and elastic round
orbs of You XiaoMo's butt. In the morning he already felt it, You
XiaoMo's butt is very elastic. It feels very soft when he was sitting on
his thigh, causing the lust in his eyes to almost come rushing out.

Feeling his butt being grasped by two hands, You XiaoMo stiffens.

Letting a man rub his butt is a little awkward. Although the other
party is doing it for his own good, he still feels a little awkward
inside.

There's no helping it. You XiaoMo immediately says in his heart. We

are both men. It's no big deal. It will be over in a bit.

Soon he feels himself soaring. The *hu hu* cold wind is whistling

420
past on both sides of him. Because Ling Xiao's body is shielding him,
You XiaoMo doesn't feel the least bit cold. Instead he feels that the
warmth from his body is making him feel especially warm. If it is
possible, he doesn't want to leave.

Ling Xiao's speed is very fast. Fifteen minutes later, they are out of
the back of the mountain, reaching the small path that they were on
during the day. From far, they can see the lamps of the Central
lineage. Making use of the cover of moonlight, Ling Xiao dodges past
the guards patrolling outside to the wing of the house. Luckily the
guards have just started patrolling so they haven't reached them.
Also the room still has the barrier he set up before so no one
discovers that were not in the room for almost four hours.

After entering the room, Ling Xiao puts You XiaoMo down, "Stay in
the room. I'll be back in a bit."

He turns and leaves.

You XiaoMo immediately asks, "Where are you going?"

"I'll tell you when I get back."

Ling Xiao leaves right after saying that. Leaving the room, he
reinforces the barrier before flying quickly into the dim of the night.

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Chapter 77 - Confrontation
That night, You XiaoMo doesn't wait for Ling Xiao to return and just
goes to sleep. After rushing about the whole day, when his head
touches the pillow, he soon faints *hu hu* into a dead sleep. He
doesn't even know when Ling Xiao returns.

The next day, before daylight, You XiaoMo is awakened by a loud

banging at the door along with a familiar voice calling out. So noisy
that his two ears start to buzz *weng weng*. With his eyes closed,
he uses one of his hands to cover his ears and continues to sleep.

Ling Xiao opens his eyes and lowers his head catching sight of a
downy black head again using his chest as a pillow.

The owner of that head is again like the previous night, like a eight
legged octopus wrapped around his body. Outside, the banging
sound is like a gong and yet he is sleeping like a dead pig. Ling Xiao
glances outside the window and sees that it is still dark. On top of
that, he slept relatively late last night, no wonder he is so dead
asleep.

Ling Xiao carefully moves You XiaoMo aside. After getting off the
bed, he wraps the quilt around his body. Having lost the warm cozy
heat source, You XiaoMo's body shivers involuntarily and buries half
his face into the quilt. The other exposed half is bright red and
extremely eye-catching. Ling Xiao can't stop himself from giving him
a pinch. The soft and silky feel almost makes him not want to leave.

After tucking him in, Ling Xiao slips on a set of clothes and goes to
open the door.

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The person knocking on the door is Luo Xia. Probably because
something big happened, he is so anxious that his whole head is
covered in sweat. When Ling Xiao opens the door, he almost couldn't
stop himself from knocking on his chest. Seeing him come out, he
immediately shouts out almost spraying his saliva.

"Elder brother, it's really bad. Elder Jiang is in trouble!"

"Hold on a second."

Ling Xiao's expression changes a little. He utters those words and

immediately turns around and heads into the inner room to change
his clothes.

Upon entering the inner room, he immediately sees that You XiaoMo
who should have been sleeping snugly in the quilt now has one arm
hanging out. The delicate fair arm looks like a woman's, slender and
even like a lotus root. One look and it's obvious that he has not
undergone physical training before.

Ling Xiao is suddenly displeased that he is so thin and weak. If he is

this weak, what would happen if he can't run away from enemies?

A certain someone at this moment in time completely doesn't realize

that he has started to worry endlessly about You XiaoMo's future.

Right then, You XiaoMo that was fast asleep suddenly crawls and sits
up. Both his eyes are at a loss as he looks at Ling Xiao who is standing
in front of the wardrobe. Ling Xiao obviously did not expect him to
suddenly wake up. He has just taken off his clothes and has yet to
put on another. His strong sturdy chest is simply exposed in mid-air.

Ling Xiao sees that he doesn't make any move after getting up so he

423
is just about to say something when he hears his questioning voice.

"Yi, was there someone knocking on the door just now?"

" ....... "

Ling Xiao thinks that this reaction is a little too slow.

You XiaoMo doesn't wait for him to reply and looks out the window
at the sky outside. Seeing that it is gray and overcast with no sign of
the sun, he pulls up the quilt and lies back down. The whole process
happens fluidly, the bulging quilt only revealing a tuft of black hair.

Ling Xiao, " ....... "

After a while, Luo Xia that was shut outside the door knocks lightly,
"Elder brother, are you ready?"

Ling Xiao quickly finishes dressing up and walks out of the room,
closing the door gently behind him before leaving with Luo Xia. Luo
Xia is here under the orders of the Grand Master to bring Ling Xiao
over to talk about the situation with Elder Jiang. On the way, Luo Xia
tells Ling Xiao everything he knows.

In brief, Elder Jiang probably ran into some trouble. Yesterday, after
the competition ended, Elder Jiang and Grand Master left together.
The both of them talked about matters relating to the competition
for an hour before Elder Jiang left. The Grand Master had thought
that Elder Jiang should have returned to his room. Actually, everyone
thought the same.

Unexpectedly this morning, before daybreak, a disciple went to his

room to call him and found that he was not in his room.

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Elder Jiang is in charge of the competition so there are a lot of things
for him to do. Hence, he usually gets up rather early. That disciple
discovered that Elder Jiang still had not woken up when it was
already three quarters through the Mao period, so he went to wake
him.

Discovering that Elder Jiang is not there and also not with the other
Elders, that disciple realizes that something is not right and goes to
inform the Grand Master. The Grand Master immediately sends
people to go find him. In the end, they find Elder Jiang's jade tablet
on an overhanging cliff. The Grand Master and the other Elders
suspect that Elder Jiang was most probably killed so the call
everyone together. Ling Xiao as the Grand disciple or course must
attend.

"You all must already know why I called all of you here today. I want
to hear what you all think with respect to the disappearance of Elder
Jiang."

Tang Fan speaks calmly. His expression completely doesn't reflect

that TianXin sect has just lost an important Elder. After saying this,
his eyes fall onto the first position on his lower right, Ling Xiao,
"Young Xiao, you go first."

Ling Xiao stands up and cups his hands while speaking, "Grand
Master, I feel that we must first make sure whether Elder Jiang is
missing or whether he has already been killed. Your disciple knows
too little so has no way to judge for now."

Tang Fan doesn't nod nor shake his head. He looks at the others, "Do
you all also think this way?"

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Hearing this, the junior brothers that usually have a good
relationship with Ling Xiao all nod their head and express their
agreement. As for Lei Ju who is next to Ling Xiao, his face shows a
rather obvious look of disdain.

"Lei Ju, you don't seem to have the same opinion as Young Xiao. Are
you saying that you have a different viewpoint?"

Tang Fan is the first to notice Lei Ju's expression but he doesn't show
any displeasure.

"Replying to Grand Master. Lei Ju thinks that it doesn't matter if

Elder Jiang is missing or killed. It is enough to show that there are
some people that harbor evil intentions here. Everyone here are
must still remember the pandemonium that occurred not too long
ago. It was said that many sects rooted out demon spies from among
their ranks. Although no demons were discovered in TianXin sect, it
doesn't mean there aren't any. So in my opinion, Elder Jiang's
disappearance is probably connected to the demons.

Lei Ju cups his hands towards Tang Fan, his eyes full of rebellious
rays. He then looks at Ling Xiao in a threatening way.

"What Lei Ju says is reasonable, but one mustn't be too impulsive to

avoid making everyone anxious."

Tang Fan is calm, not revealing the tiniest bit of his thoughts. On the
surface, he agrees with his viewpoint but underneath he attacks. This
move is with one calls the peak of perfection.

"Thank you for the guidance Grand Master."

Lei Ju cups his hands once again, not the least bit of discomfort

426
showing on his face. Instead he glances smugly at Ling Xiao.
Compared to the brief words from Ling Xiao that don't seem to say
anything, he feels that his is a better answer.

After Lei Ju sits down, Elder Xiao on the opposite side, who is also his
Master, opens his mouth.

"Elder brother Grand Master, I suspect that there are spies in the
Central lineage. Elder Jiang's disappearance must be taken seriously."

Tang Fan's gaze sweeps across everyone that is present, saying "We
found signs of fighting where Elder Jiang disappeared. One of those
involved is Elder Jiang. I'm afraid it looks more grim than hopeful. But
for this person to actually be able to match Elder Jiang's strength, I
suspect that the murderer is one of us here."

Hearing these words, everyone in attendance show varied

expressions.

The shrewd and experienced elders don't show any change in their
expressions. As for the few younger disciples, all their thoughts are
written on their faces.

Elder Du who is next to Elder Xiang laughs like the Laughing Buddha,
as if unaffected by the atmosphere. Stroking his tuft of gray beard,
he easily breaks the tense atmosphere, "Among us, the ones that can
match Junior brother Jiang's strength, other than us, are only Young
Lin Xiao and Young Lei Ju."

"Du YunCai, what are you implying? Are you saying that my disciple is
the killer?"

Elder Xiao immediately speaks up angrily.

427
"Elder Xiao, there is no need to get angry. You know very well that I
am just talking about the possibilities."

Du YunCai laughs until his eyes narrow into slits as he speaks.

Elder Jiang still wants to object but is cut off calmly by Tang Fan,
"What Elder Du said is reasonable. Lin Xiao and Lei Ju have
outstanding talent, indeed able to go one round with Elder Jiang. In
order to prove that they have nothing to do with the disappearance
of Elder Jiang, we only have to ask them where they were when Elder
Jiang disappeared. That would be good enough."

"I'll go first."

Lei Ju is the first to stand up.

"Elder Jiang must have disappeared about three quarters through

the Xu period. So from Xu period to Hai period, where were you, and
is there anyone that can confirm it?"

Tang Fan's eyes are like cold blades, gleaming coldly at Lei Ju. The
calmness from before changes instantly to subtly threatening.

Lei Ju's expression changes sharply, saying seriously, "During this

time I was with a few of my junior brothers. We were talking about
the the next day's competition right up to a quarter past the Xu
period. After that I returned to the room. At that time, the one
rooming with me Junior brother Jiang Liu was already in the room.
He can confirm that after I returned to the room I was in deep
meditation, not taking a single step out of the room."

"Elder Du, I'll have to trouble you."

428
Tang Fan nods towards Du YunCai.

The Laughing Buddha Elder Du feels rather regretful than he can no

longer enjoy this drama. But he knows the seriousness of the matter
so he gets up and cups his hands towards Tang Fan, and leaves the
main hall to look for Jiang Liu.

"Next is Young Lin's turn."

Elder Xiao's threatening gaze turns towards Ling Xiao that is sitting at
the top seat.

From the time Ling Xiao entered until now, his performance is
worthy or praise. Not too noticeable yet not insignificant. No sign of
panic or unease. Leaving no thread of the spider of trails of the
horse for the few people that are constantly observing him.

Hearing Elder Xiao's words, Ling Xiao stands up and says easily,
"Answering Grand Master. From Xu period to Hai period, I was
together with Junior brother You. At that time he was refining magic
pills next to me. He can serve as my witness."

"Elder Xiao, I'll have to trouble you to bring You XiaoMo here." says
Tang Fan.

"Yes, Grand Master!"

Elder Xiao stands up and cups his hands. Before leaving the main hall,
he looks inscrutably at Ling Xiao.

Notes:

429
Mao period - 5:00-7:00
pure blue cauldron flame - peak of perfection
Xu period - 19:00-21:00
Hai period - 21:00-23:00
thread of the spider, trails of the horse - clues

430
Chapter 78 - Opportunity
You XiaoMo is still asleep when *peng* the door is kicked open.

By the time he climbs out of the quilt in fright, in a daze, he sees a

strong and swarthy middle aged man with a black beard stride into
the room like a meteor cutting through no man's land.

"May I ask who you ....... "

"Are you that You XiaoMo?"

Before You XiaoMo could finish his question, the middle aged man
reaches out and grips the collar on his chest, pulling him up, saying in
a coarse voice like dull thunder in winter, somewhat grating to listen
to.

Just waking up, his mind still in a daze, You XiaoMo's reaction is off
by half a beat, simply nodding his head.

Elder Xiao sees his weak reaction and knows that he is no threat. He
laughs coldly, "Let me ask you, yesterday from the Xu period to the
Hai period, who were you with and what were you doing?"

"You ....... I can't breathe."

You XiaoMo's face is bright red. This person's strength is too much.
He almost can no longer breathe before Elder Xiao snorts and lets
him go.

Speaking of Elder Xiao, his full name is Xiao Shan, someone that is
quite deserving of mention in TianXin sect.

431
Xiao Shan's has a very short fuse. His 'regards everyone beneath him'
attitude is even worse than Lei Ju. When he speaks, he often
carelessly offends people. The reason why he can carry on merrily
until now is because he has a good master. His master is the junior
brother of Tang Fan's master. The seniors are not people that even
Tang Fan dares to offend.

The presence of this important backer is also why Lei Ju dares to

oppose Ling Xiao. Now that Ling Xiao is listed as one of the suspects,
Xiao Shan of course will not let go of this opportunity.

You XiaoMo coughs drily a few times and hears the person next to
him repeat his question impatiently. Only then does he remember
that he just asked him a question. Actually, when Ling Xiao was
called away earlier, he vaguely remembers that it seemed to be
related to the matter with Elder Jiang. But they concealed tightly
what they did yesterday so if Ling Xiao doesn't reveal it to them,
these people should not know that he has something to do to with
Elder Jiang's situation.

Ling Xiao just left for over half an hour and already this person is
here looking for him. So it's very likely that Ling Xiao told them about
him.

Although he and Ling Xiao did not discuss this beforehand, You
XiaoMo is still not that stupid to reveal any weak points to him.
Thinking of what they usually do, he simply says, "I was with Elder
brother Ling yesterday. I was refining magic pills. He was
meditating."

This was what they did the night before. He guesses that Ling Xiao
must have said the same thing.

432
Xiao Shan's expression is unreadable as he looks at him with a
piercing look, as if trying to see if he is lying. In the end, he fails to
detect it and sneers coldly, turning around, "Come with me."

You XiaoMo heaves a sigh of relief when he turns around. He quickly

takes a set of clothes from the wardrobe and puts it on while
walking. By the time they reach the Great Hall, he is properly
dressed.

He gingerly follows Xiao Shan inside. You XiaoMo steals a look

around and sees Ling Xiao as is expected. He carefully observes his
expression. It is still the usual slightly smiling mask. Looks like he still
hasn't been found out.

"Grand Master, I have brought You XiaoMo."

After saying this, Xiao Shan returns to his seat.

You XiaoMo then notices that Jiang Liu is also in the Great Hall. It's
just that his head is looking downwards so his expression is unclear.
He seems to have also just arrived but he doesn't know why he was
called here.

"You XiaoMo, your Elder brother Lin said that you were with him the
whole of last night. Is this the case?"

Seeing that everyone has arrived, Tang Fan at the head seat starts
with the questions. His voice seems remote and indifferent but still
maintains its majesty. He is clearly speaking in a measured tone but
to You XiaoMo's ears, it feels like it could shock the deaf.

You XiaoMo immediately cups his hands and says, "Replying to

433
Grand Master, I was indeed with Elder brother Lin last night."

"Oh, what were the both of you doing last night?"

Tang Fan's voice is flat, not revealing any of his thoughts.

"Replying to Grand Master, yesterday your disciple was refining

magic pills. Elder brother Lin was meditating."

You XiaoMo repeats what he said to Xiao Shan. This time he speaks
with more confidence because if something is wrong, Ling Xiao
would have certainly found a way to let him know.

"All the way here and you're still working so hard. No wonder Junior
brother Kong took you as a disciple. Not bad. What magic pills did
you refine yesterday, bring them out and let me see."

Tang Fan's serious expression abruptly reveals a light smile as if he is

an amiable elderly fellow.

"Yes, Grand Master!"

You XiaoMo's heart suddenly gets cold but he doesn't dare to show
it. Then he somewhat nervously takes out a white bottle from his
magic bag and respectfully brings it forward and hands it to him.

Tang Fan takes the bottle, opens the stopper and pours out a magic
pill. The medicinal fragrance is not very strong. It's an ordinary level
one Fasting magic pill. Definitely nothing special about it. After a
rough glance, he puts it back, "Not bad, keep working hard. Strive to
be an outstanding mage so you can be of service to TianXin sect. Step
down ba!"

434
You XiaoMo takes a step forward and takes back the bottle. He says
respectfully, "I will try my best. I will definitely not fail to meet Grand
Master's expectations."

Saying this, he withdraws to one side thinking that what comes next
would probably have nothing to do with him.

"This matter will end here for today. Elder Jiang coming to harm, I
will send people to figure it out. Everyone can leave ba."

Tang Fan waves away everyone present, unwilling to let the matter
drag on. In a bit, the third stage of the competition will commence.

Xiao Shan and Lei Ju, master and disciple as if communicating by

magic horn, turn to look at Ling Xiao before leaving the Great Hall,
one after another.

Ling Xiao walks up to You XiaoMo and leaves the Great Hall with him.
The other disciples also leave one after another leaving Jiang Liu to
follow behind by himself. Everyone seems to have forgotten about
him.

When they reach the living quarters, You XiaoMo immediately runs
into the room. He holds his chest as if holding down his shock,
"Scared me to death. Grand Master's eyes are very piercing. Just
now, I almost thought that he had seen through me."

Ling Xiao walks to his side and picks up the teapot and pours a cup of
tea for him, "Tang Fan that wily old fox. Up till now he still suspects
me. With you being close to me, questioning you is to be expected."

"Luckily I refined a bottle of level one Fasting magic pills before this.
Otherwise, if I really didn't have any magic pills to give him, then he

435
would have really seen through my lie."

You XiaoMo almost wants to applaud his own ingenuity. Speaking

with the Grand Master is really too stressful for his heart.

"Before, when Xiao Shan came to call you, did he do anything to

you?"

Ling Xiao sits in front of him, his eyes shining as he stares at You
XiaoMo's cheeks that are dyed a light pink, as if wanting to see
through to his skull.

You XiaoMo shakes his head, "No, but he is very rude. Without
knocking, he simply kicks in the door and comes in. Not the least bit
like an Elder. On top of that, he didn't even wait for me to put on
clothes. He actually ran straight in and seized my collar. Luckily I
wasn't dead asleep so I quickly woke up."

Hearing this, Ling Xiao calmly narrows his eyes, ice-cold rays are
hidden at the bottom of his eyes. That old man actually dared to
touch his man. Since they themselves are so persistent, then don't
blame him for not being polite.

Elder Jiang's come to harm was not leaked out so a lot of disciples
are unaware of this issue.

The competition starts on schedule with the presider changing to

Xiao Shan. He is not as smooth as Elder Jiang but everyone doesn't
pay much attention. After listening to the familiar opening remarks,
he starts to draw lots.

After going through two rounds of eliminations, there now remains

only thirteen people. If nothing unexpected happens, today, the final

436
winner will be determined.

Xiao Shan takes out two pieces of paper from the box. Opening them
up, his eyes can't help but widen a little, as if he can't believe what
he is seeing. But under everyone's watchful eyes, there is nothing he
can do. He can only toughen his scalp saying, "The competitors for
the first match are Ling Xiao and Lei Ju, please come on stage."

The audience and the competitors suddenly quiet down

considerably.

This circumstance is similar to the first stage of the competition. It's

just that the one picking the names is now Xiao Shan, and on top
that, he is the one that picked Lei Ju to compete with Ling Xiao. This
means that one of them will be eliminated, with no chance of
advancing into the top seven.

Everyone's expression suddenly becomes very excited, it's going to

be one helluva show.

Ling Xiao playfully raises the corners of his lips. It's really 'if one
wishes for it, it will come'. He was just thinking of a way to teach Lei
Ju a lesson, not expecting it to be presented on his doorstep. It
would be wrong not to make full use of this opportunity from Xiao
Shan.

Thinking of this, Ling Xiao stands up and is about to get on stage

when he suddenly feels a tug on his clothes. Looking down he sees
You XiaoMo pulling on his clothes.

"Elder brother Ling, you have to be careful. That Lei Ju looks very
strong."

437
You XiaoMo urges softly.

A flash of warmth appears in Ling Xiao's eyes. He can't help but pat
his head, "Don't worry, I don't have to be careful. It's only one Lei
Ju."

Saying this, he picks up the sword Luo Xia hands to him.

The real Lin Xiao uses a sword!

Seeing him turn around, You XiaoMo pouts. This megalomaniac. But
he really has what it takes. Lei Ju indeed looks very strong but he is
definitely not as strong as Elder Jiang. Ling Xiao can even kill off Elder
Jiang so one Lei Ju is really not something to be concerned about.

Note:
magic horn - telepathic

438
Chapter 79 - The most vicious way to win
Two figures on the huge stage, one white, one black.

The white one is of course Ling Xiao. White seems to be his

trademark these days. Ever since You XiaoMo got to know him, he
has not seen him wear clothes of any other color. The black one is
therefore Lei Ju.

This Lei Ju is very arrogant. Although he has been ranked number

two for an eternity, he is rather peculiar. He never gets discouraged.
Instead, he gets braver with each fight. Every time Ling Xiao beats
him down, he will always get right back up again and continue with
his arrogant challenging manner. Simply just like a cockroach that
can't be killed!

This competition, in the eyes of others, Lei Ju is probably not a match

for Ling Xiao. But he himself doesn't think so.

"Lin Xiao, I have been waiting for this day for a very long time. This
time I'll let you get acquainted with my strength to avenge for the
last time."

Lei Ju holds a wolf fang spiked club over his shoulder. This is his
weapon of choice. It's just that his strength is pretty good so he
rarely carries it around. But this time with Ling Xiao, he doesn't have
enough confidence that he would be able to beat him without a
weapon. So from the start, he brings along the wolf fang club. Such a
huge wolf fang club, thicker than his arm, if one really receives a
direct hit, at best, the bones will crack, the worst, totally disabled.

Ling Xiao swings the sword in his hand, smiling at Lei Ju's provocative

439
look, "I believe I will get acquainted."

Below the stage, You XiaoMo covers his face. Looking at the brilliant
smile on Ling Xiao's face, he feels that the real meaning of his words
is 'I believe you will die a miserable death'.

The sword technique that Lin Xiao practices is the same as Elder
Jiang's, Unwavering Imperial Sword.

Unwavering Imperial Sword is one of the best if not the best attack
technique in TianXin sect. Although it is a mid-level attack technique,
it is a top grade mid-level technique. A lot of the core disciples and
elders practice this attack technique. But there also those like Lei Ju
who practice a club technique. Whichever suits one better.

As soon as Xiao Shan declares the start of the match, Lei Ju

brandishes his wolf fang club and rushes at Ling Xiao. Running at
maximum horsepower, even the people below the stage can feel the
effects. A gust of strong wind rushes at their faces, alarming
everyone causing them to flinch and almost jump from their seats.

*Qiang*!!!

A loud colliding sound rings out. Lei Ju's wolf fang club is easily
stopped by Ling Xiao's sword. Seeing that the situation is not good,
Lei Ju immediately moves his hulking strong frame backwards two
meters, only stopping when he feels that he is at a safe distance. A
set of sinister ruthless eyes fix on Ling Xiao, as if trying to seek out his
weakness.

Compared to the cautious actions of Lei Ju, Ling Xiao appears much
calmer. His sword is pointing at Lei Ju. His face is expressionless, as if
he is really taking this battle very seriously.

440
Seeing this expression of Ling Xiao, Lei Ju snorts coldly.

Others may not be able to tell, but he knows that when Ling Xiao
stopped his blow just know, he seems to have used up eighty
percent of his energy. Don't think he can't tell, his hand was clearly
shaking just now. So seeing his look now, he simply thinks that he is
putting on airs.

Ling Xiao's back is towards Tang Fan and the elders. A look of
playfulness flashes across his eyes. He bends his body slightly and
just when Lei Ju is preparing to launch his second wave of attack, his
feet seem to grow wings as he rushes towards Lei Ju. The speed can't
be considered slow, as if only taking a blink of an eye to reach in
front Lei Ju. The sword in his hand streaks across the air cutting a
curved arc.

Lei Ju turns pale in fright. Right now it is too late to get out of the
way so he quickly uses the wolf fang club in his hand to ward him off.

*Qiang* rings out, the clashing sound reverberates. A hint of delight

flashes across Lei Ju's eyes.

Ling Xiao's lips suddenly arc upwards. This is not lost on Lei Ju who is
only inches away. He inwardly curses 'not good', and the next
second, a strong leg kicks him on his completely exposed waist.
Because he used the wolf fang club to ward off the blow, this causes
his whole right side to be completely defenseless. So Ling Xiao seizes
this opportunity and gives him a hard kick. The waist is already the
weakest part of the human body. On top of that, Ling Xiao was not
merciful with his kick.

Lei Ju staggers to his left. The dull pain washes over his body in

441
waves. If not for his extraordinary endurance, he most probably
wouldn't even be able to remain standing. By the time he turns his
head around, the tip of Ling Xiao's long sword is right between his
eyes.

Lei Ju widens his eyes fiercely, looking at Ling Xiao with eyes that are
bursting with fury.

He finally realizes why these moves are so familiar. Before, the last
time he fought against Lin Xiao, he was defeated by Lin Xiao with
these few moves. At that time he felt that it was the most
humiliating time of his entire life. He swore that there will come a
day when he would wash off the humiliation. Never did he expect
that Lin Xiao would actually use the very same moves once again to
defeat him!

"The match is over. Lin Xiao wins."

Xiao Shan is worried that Ling Xiao would harm Lei Ju so he hastily
announces the winner.

Ling Xiao puts back his long sword. He raises the corners of his
mouth at Lei Ju, revealing a delighted smile. He then cups his hands
towards the enraged Lei Ju and says elegantly, "Junior brother Lei, I
am now well acquainted with your strength!"

Lei Ju's rough and brutish face immediately turns a purplish green.

In the Elder seats, Xiao Shan's face is also very unsightly. This Lin Xiao
is too vicious. The match is already over and he still says those
words. He clearly wants to drive them mad!

With those words, Ling Xiao beams as he gets off the stage, walking

442
back to You XiaoMo.

Seeing the situation, You XiaoMo immediately goes up to him saying

cautiously, "Elder brother Ling, you defeated him so quickly.
Wouldn't it be suspicious?"

In his eyes, the two of them only exchanged a few blows.

Ling Xiao lowers his head and looks at You XiaoMo's cautious actions.
His lips curve up into a slight smile, "No need to worry, when Lei Ju
sparred with Lin Xiao the last time, Lin Xiao used these same moves
to defeat Lei Ju."

You XiaoMo's mouth falls open, this move is really too vicious!

For one, this would make people not suspect that he is not the real
Lin Xiao. Second, he can make use of this opportunity to deal a huge
blow to Lei Ju. Losing to the same moves, even if Lei Ju is
psychologically strong, he would still be driven half mad with anger.
On top of that, he said those boastful opening remarks and was
defeated not long after making it all the more humiliating.

Pitiful Lei Ju. This incident would probably haunt him for a long time.

But who would have thought that Ling Xiao would actually use the
very same moves that Lin Xiao used to defeat Lei Ju? It didn't even
cross Lei Ju's mind. If not, he would not have only realized it after
being defeated. Vicious. Especially that last sentence. Vicious upon
vicious!

When Lei Ju gets off the stage, his injured waist is treated by the one
rooming with him, Jiang Liu. Jiang Liu asks him to take of his top in
order to determine the extent of his injury. Lei Ju didn't want to do it

443
in front of so many people but that place is really too painful. After
hesitating, he takes of his top.

With one look, Jiang Liu immediately gasps.

Lei Ju hears him gasp and looks down. His face turns even blacker
than before.

He didn't expect Lin Xiao to be so ruthless. That one kick, how much
spiritual energy was used? His waist is a big patch of dark blue. Jiang
Liu touches it lightly and Lei Ju immediately breathes in sharply, his
face so distorted that he no longer appears human. In the end, he
forces down that rage of his. He restrains his voice and says softly
and hatefully, "Lin Xiao, you're really something. There will be a day
when I will get my revenge!"

Jiang Liu who was close to him hears this uncontrollable hateful
words clearly, causing him to lower his eyes.

After Lei Ju's loss, the competition starts up again.

The other disciples are also quite strong. The last person receives the
bye, and that is Tantai MiaoYin, the only woman among the thirteen.

Martial artists have always been mostly male. Although women can
train, their progress is generally much slower than men. This may be
because women have too much to consider so their training progress
also slows down. It may also have to do with talent.

And so seven competitors are promoted to the fourth round.

Tang Fan and the other elders talk it over and finally decide
unanimously that the one who receives the bye this time would be

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Ling Xiao. The gap between him and the other disciples is rather big
so he would definitely get through this stage. So, in order to give
others a chance, they just give the slot to him. Tantai MiaoYin and
the others also have no objection. For them, giving the slot to Ling
Xiao means they won't have to go up against Elder brother.

In order to avoid a long night fraught with dreams, and with the
incident of Elder Jiang coming to harm, Tang Fan decides to
determine the final winner today. Although with the current
situation, it is iron-clad that the ultimate winner will be Ling Xiao.

In order to win the top three prizes, the six disciples go all out.
Among them, the most prominent one is again Tantai MiaoYin.
Although Tantai MiaoYin received the bye the last round, this doesn't
mean that she is weak. Instead, she is the dark horse of this grand
competition, charging into the semi-finals. Although she finally loses
to her opponent and can't advance to the final match, top four is
already a great honor. Furthermore, if she can defeat the other loser
in the next match, she would be in third place.

The prizes TianXin sect gives the top three winners are very
generous. The third place winner will get a level four magic pill and
two level five magic pills. The second place winner will get two level
five magic pills and a level six magic pill. The first place winner will
get three level six magic pills. On top of that, the first place winner
will get three stalks of level six and below magic herbs. As for why
would one give a martial artists three stalks of magic herbs, there is
quite a lot to be learned.

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Chapter 80 - Something substantive
As expected, Ling Xiao wins the first place, just like Lin Xiao last year.
This year, the prizes for the top three places is again given out
personally by Tang Fan.

In third place is Tantai Miao Yin. This young woman lived up to

expectations. During the match for the third place, she risked all in
one final move to clench the victory, finally standing together with
Ling Xiao in front of the Elders.

The other person is Du YunCai's disciple. From the start to the end of
the competition, his performance was very steady, very
commendable. This person's name is Huang Jie. Last year he was
hovering around the number ten rank. This year, achieving such
outstanding success, it's obvious that he tried very hard the whole
year. As his master, Du YunCai is smiling so much that his eyes
almost disappears.

Tang Fan first gives three magic pills to Tantai MiaoYin and then
urges her to continue working hard. Next is Huang Jie, also receiving
some encouraging words. Finally, it's Ling Xiao's turn.

"This year, letting you compete together with the other disciples is
really making light of your abilities. Seeing your abilities, Master
thinks you are really worthy of your rank as number one of the
warrior division. It looks like the other disciples are no match for you.
How about this ba. From now on, you don't have to participate in the
grand friendly competitions. Give the other disciples a chance, how
about it?"

Tang Fan is gratified as he pats Ling Xiao's shoulder. This disciple has

446
never let him down before.

Ling Xiao cups his hands and smiles, "Master orders, how can your
disciple not follow? It will be as Master says."

"Your words seem to indicate that Master is using his influence to

pressure you?"

Tang Fan suddenly looks displeased but his tone is clearly not one of
anger.

"Master, you have taught me before. One must be modest and guard
against arrogance and rashness."

Ling Xiao says measuredly. The meaning is that if he simply accepts

Tang Fan's words, that would mean he is just as cocky and self-
important as Lei Ju.

Hearing these words, Tang Fan's rather serious expression suddenly

disappears as he laughs out loud, "That's a good saying, one must be
modest. You still remember Master's words. Looks like I have not
taught you in vain. Alright, chitchat will have to wait for when we
have free time ba. These are the three level six magic pills for you. Be
sure to keep them well."

Ling Xiao takes the bottle and opens it. Three magic pills are lying
inside, the medicinal fragrance overflowing to all sides. He then puts
on a fake happy face.

Tang Fan restrains the smile on his face and says in a deep voice,
"Because you are number one, so you can go over to your Uncle Ye
and pick out three stalks of level six and below magic herbs. These
three stalks of magic herbs, you can either keep for yourself or give

447
to others."

"Thank you Master!"

Ling Xiao beams as he speaks.

As of now, the competition that lasted three days officially ends.

Because Ling Xiao receives an additional three stalks of level six

magic herbs, while he received three stalks of level five magic herbs
last year, so he immediately gets chased after by the other disciples.
Even Tang YunQi on the opposite side cranes her neck and looks over
here. Because when Lin Xiao won the first place last year, the reward
was almost the same. When he got the three stalks of magic herbs,
he gave two to Tang YunQi and the other one to another Heaven
peak disciple with high potential.

Although Tang YunQi was not satisfied because Lin Xiao didn't give
them all to her at that time, she was still extremely happy.

At that time she felt that Brother Xiao really does have her in his
heart. Otherwise, he would not have given her two level five magic
herbs.

This year she also believes that Brother Xiao will give her the magic
herbs. But that was before the appearance of You XiaoMo. After the
appearance of You XiaoMo, she feels more and more uncertain. She
feels that Brother Xiao is treating You XiaoMo unusually well, making
her have a sense of deep crisis. So her heart is very uncertain, not
knowing if Brother Xiao will give a her a few stalks of magic herbs.

Although her father is the Grand Master of TianXin sect, and she is
the Grand Master's daughter, this doesn't mean she can simply take

448
TianXin sect's magic herbs. So the magic herbs that Lin Xiao gives her
are very valuable.

"Brother Xiao."

Tang YunQi eventually can't take it anymore so she walks over.

Seeing her come over, the other people give way to her one after
another. It's not because they are afraid of her, but everyone knows
that Junior sister Tang has a very bad temper. This time, can't
restrain herself from coming over, it must be to ask who the magic
herbs will go to.

Ling Xiao smiles lightly, "What is it Junior sister Tang?"

Tang YunQi immediately chokes up almost unable to say anything.

The rim of her eyes redden with pain. Before, Brother Xiao has
always called her Little sister but now he actually calls her Junior
sister Tang. All at once, it feels as if they are not as close as before.
But in order to save face, and for the sake of the three stalks of level
six magic herbs, she must say it out.

"Brother Xiao, you gave me two stalks of magic herbs last year. Will
you also give me two stalks of magic herbs this year?"

Now, she no longer demands that Brother Xiao will give her three
stalks of magic herbs, but she must at least get two. Otherwise she
will no longer be able to raise her head among the other disciples.

"We'll talk about it when the time comes."

Ling Xiao gives her a profound look and grins, raising the corners of
his lips to a light smile. Not giving a clear answer, he instead gives

449
Tang YunQi a glimmer of hope.

Tang YunQi sees the slight smile on Ling Xiao's face and suddenly
feels that she still has some hope. At least Brother Xiao didn't say
that he would give them to You XiaoMo. Happiness flashes across
her eyes but just as she was about to continue saying a few more
words, Ling Xiao abruptly turns away.

"Little brother, we should be heading back."

Ling Xiao's face is overflowing with gentle smiles as he stretches his

hands towards You XiaoMo who is at periphery of the crowd of
people.

Seeing everyone turn around to look at him, You XiaoMo feels a little
uncomfortable. Actually he really wanted to be the first person to
congratulate Ling Xiao just now. Congratulate him for winning first
place. Although he already knew much earlier that this would be the
result, he still wants to congratulate him.

But before he could head over there, he was pushed to the outside
by others. Seeing Ling Xiao surrounded by layers and layers or people
and him pacing back and forth on the outside wondering how to
squeeze in, this disparity, You XiaoMo for the first time feels
absolutely helpless with regards to his thin body.

Just when he was about to go ahead and just shout it out and be
done with it, the people in front of him suddenly give way.

Raising his head, he sees Ling Xiao stretching out his arm towards
him, leaving him stunned. He feels that this scene is like those .......
those TV drama where the noble prince stretches out his hand
towards to princess. What a scene ....... ah pei, he is not a woman!

450
You XiaoMo is as if struck with thunder from his own thoughts. He
must have fallen under a spell!

In the end, the two of them leave together in front of everyone. Ling
Xiao wants to lead You XiaoMo by the hand but is properly refused
by the latter. The reason he gives is that he is not a three year old
child unable to walk without falling.

Ling Xiao knows that even though he is a weakling, he is still very

stubborn when it comes to certain things, so he lets him have his
way.

As for Fu ZiLin, although his aura seems very strong, but his
appearance and disappearance is always very mysterious. When
everyone was crowding around Ling Xiao, he already left on his own.

Behind them, all the disciples watch as Ling Xiao leaves with his Little
brother. Losing interest, they start to disperse and leave Tang YunQi
behind. Her expression is so distorted as she feels like dismembering
someone by tying them to five horses. She looks hatefully at You
XiaoMo's disappearing back.

By her side, other than the Big brother and Big sister from yesterday,
not knowing how to appease her, is Jiang Liu, with an calm
expression on his face.

When Ling Xiao walks into the room, You XiaoMo suddenly turns
around and lowers his head saying somewhat awkwardly in a soft
voice, "Elder brother Ling, congratulations on getting first place."

Although his head is lowered, Ling Xiao can still see the light pink on
his cheeks. He can't help but raise the corners of his lips forming an
ambiguous smile, "Little brother's intention, I have received. But this

451
type of intention, I just received too much of it outside. Does Little
brother have something more substantive to give? If yes, I will be
even happier."

You XiaoMo immediately -_-||. More substantive? He was already

rewarded with magic pills and magic herbs and he actually still wants
something substantive from him? What thick skin!

But since he already put it like that, it's not good for him to refuse
outright.

"Then, then what does Elder brother Ling want as something

substantive?"

Ling Xiao looks him up and down, making him feel so uncomfortable,
not knowing where to put his hands and feet. Suddenly a sinister
smile appears on his face as he says flatly, "You will know tonight."

Tonight? You XiaoMo feels somewhat clueless.

But thinking about it, his only ability is refining magic pills. What he
has, is also only magic pills. Normally Ling Xiao also loves to eat his
magic pills. It must be that the something substantive is referring to
magic pills. Furthermore, ever since he arrived here, he usually only
refines magic pills at night. That must be why Ling Xiao said it like
that.

Thinking like this, You XiaoMo feels it's no big deal. At worst, he just
has to give him an additional ten or so magic pills. After all, he
usually also has to refine some magic pills for him.

But when night falls, when Ling Xiao tells him to get on the bed, only
then does You XiaoMo find out what something substantive means.

452
"Why?"

You XiaoMo yells at Ling Xiao feeling ashamed and resentful. If he

had known that this is what he meant, even if he were to get beaten
to death, he still wouldn't have agreed to what dog shit something
substantive. Looks like he was planning this all along.

"Because you promised me. Don't tell me you want to go back on

your word?"

Ling Xiao leans lazily on the bed, his body propped up halfway. His jet
black hair flows down in torrents over his shoulders, instantly adding
to his inherent depraved aura.

Normal people when faced with this sight would have turned all
starry-eyed with infatuation long ago. It's too bad that the one in
front of him is You XiaoMo, at the moment fuming at his words, not
giving any thought to how good he looks.

Hearing these words, You XiaoMo turns bright red, "That's because
you didn't tell me it would be this. If I had known earlier, I would not
have agreed ne!"

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes as he looks at him, spitting out, "Little
brother, one must stay true to one's words!"

You XiaoMo vomits blood. If he had known earlier, he wouldn't have

helped him yesterday morning.

Notes:
four even, eight steady - very steady

453
God doesn't know, ghost doesn't feel - very mysterious

454
Chapter 81 - Man and man
"Oh ....... use a little more force there, a little harder, oh ....... too
awesome, just like that!"

"Not down there, a little to the top, a little more to the top ....... oh,
right there ....... just that pressure, feels very good, you're doing
well!"

You XiaoMo can't take it any longer. He stamps his foot on his chest
and jumps off the bed, his whole face completely furious, "Why do
have so many requests? I don't want to do it any more!"

Saying that, he tries to put on the boots he took off not too long ago.

Ling Xiao grasps his hand and pulls him onto his body with one tug.
He says indifferently, "Little brother. You can choose not to do it, but
then, we'll have to go back to the original agreement."

You XiaoMo is pulled and tugged by him, causing him to sprawl on

top of his body, his face directly facing the rather noticeable gigantic
thing bulging under his hip. If it wasn't because Ling Xiao was holding
down his back, he would have jumped up a long time ago. Hearing
those words from him, his bright red face immediately turns black.

How did it come to this? Actually it's very simple.

Ling Xiao had originally wanted him to use both his hands to help him
release the swelling under his hip but You XiaoMo firmly refused.
That's because the last time he helped him, his endurance was too
outrageous almost causing both his hands to be disabled. The other
reason is because at that time, he spurted thick white liquid all over

455
his body. That type of feeling is something he just can't forget even
now.

With You XiaoMo refusing to do it to the point of death, Ling Xiao

changed the conditions to a whole body massage.

You XiaoMo had given his parents massages before so he agrees

thinking that this is more acceptable. At first, he used his two hands
but Ling Xiao complained that he is too weak so he asked him to use
his feet to step on his body to massage him. You XiaoMo agreed.

As a result, from the start until now, it has not even been fifteen
minutes and he had already heard non-stop complaints. A little
harder, then a little lower, then a little higher. He has never met
someone with so many requests. After 15 minutes, You XiaoMo
refuses to continue.

Ling Xiao doesn't get angry. If that's what you want, then we'll go
back to the original agreement.

Although this kind of massage is very comfortable, especially when

You XiaoMo uses both his feet to step here and there, it's really very
nice. But he still prefers the feeling when You XiaoMo uses both his
hands to hold his stick. That feeling is much better than a massage!

He's the type of person that does it as soon as he thinks it. So not
waiting for You XiaoMo to answer, he takes advantage of his
unpreparedness to grab a hold of his little brother.

You XiaoMo was just about to stand up when his body collapses
again. Red-faced, he glares at Ling Xiao and stammers, "You, you are
so depraved and shameless, again with this move."

456
"How can you call this depraved and shameless ne!"

Ling Xiao laughs out loud *ha ha*. His big hand scoops him up in one
swoop while the other hand completely has no intention of relaxing
its grip. The hot breath sprays on the his nape making the person in
his arms tremble endlessly, his neck to his ears turning completely
red.

You XiaoMo doesn't dare to struggle because his manhood is still in

the hand of the other ne. But hearing these words, his heart
becomes even more displeased, "You're forcing me and yet you don't
think it's depraved and shameless?"

"Of course not, I'm just helping you to indulge in pleasure in a timely
manner."

Ling Xiao says mischievously while putting one of his hands inside his
clothes. He had wanted to do this for a long time, ever since
yesterday. You XiaoMo's face is so soft so he was wondering how his
body would feel like.

Ling Xiao's eyes seem to light up.

From the outside, You XiaoMo doesn't seem as tangible as he is

under his clothes. The flesh his hand comes in contact with is so
unimaginably soft. The soft and smooth body is even softer than the
best silk he has ever worn. Even more tender and lovely than the
petals of the most exquisite rose he has ever seen. He hears a moan
escape from the person in his arms next to his hear, making his heart
start to tremble uncontrollably.

This person seems to have been created just for him. Just one patch
of skin, one moan, and it arouses the lust deeply buried inside his

457
heart.

You XiaoMo is not any better, he feels as if his body is no longer his
own.

He never knew that his whole body would melt just from being
touched by Ling Xiao. The friction between his hand and his skin
actually gives rise to an uncontrollable pleasurable sensation. Such a
sensitive reaction is really too unscientific!

But in a daze, You XiaoMo thinks that this feeling is a little irrational.
Since when did his body get so sensitive that such a familiar and yet
unfamiliar pleasure would arise from just one touch? This is so
unscientific ba, because before when he was bumped and jostled by
others, he never felt this way.

Thinking that his body could have become abnormal, You XiaoMo
can't stop his eyes from getting red. He doesn't want to turn into
such a strange person!

In the midst of drunkenness, Ling Xiao suddenly hears a muffled sob.

Weak and faltering. Looking down, he sees that the person in his
arms is actually crying, making him jump in shock. Before, he never
cried when bullied so why is he crying now?

Ling Xiao hastily turns his body around to face him. He holds up his
face with both of his hands and unconsciously softens his voice,
"Little brother, don't cry. It's ok, it's ok. If necessary elder brother
won't bully you anymore. Don't cry."

Hearing this words, You XiaoMo lifts up his small fist and not
knowing whether to laugh or cry, starts to pound on his chest, "So
you know you are bullying me!"

458
Ling Xiao lets him continue pounding. After all, that amount of
strength doesn't hurt nor tickle. Later, when his tears start to give
way to smiles, he asks, "Alright, can you tell me now why you were
crying? Do you really not like that kind of feeling?"

Saying that, he raises his brows. For ....... let's just say people for
now, from that time are all faithful to their desires. They do what
they want, and do what comes to mind. Why would they think so
much? So he doesn't quite understand You XiaoMo's reactions. It's
obviously something that feels good so why did he cry?

Hearing his frank and bold question, You XiaoMo blushes almost
turning into the glow of sunset.

How is he going to answer this question? Actually, speaking honestly,

oh, it really felt good. He has never experienced such a strong feeling
so because it is so unfamiliar, he became very confused. He always
felt that quivering just from the touch of another man is something
not quite right. So for You XiaoMo who never considered that this
kind of thing can be normal, he feels that there is a possibility that he
has become abnormal.

But for him to say this frankly to Ling Xiao, it's difficult for him to
open his mouth.

"Say ah!"

Ling Xiao doesn't have the patience to wait one of two hours. Seeing
that he doesn't answer, he simply urges him.

You XiaoMo squirms for a bit but thinking of how much Ling Xiao
likes to touch him all over, he feels that he has to say it sooner or

459
later. So he simply drums up his courage and says jerkily, "I I I I think
I'm a little abnormal ....... "

Although the last part is said as softly as a mosquito, Ling Xiao still
manages to hear the word 'abnormal'. Surprised, he looks him up
and down saying, "Where do you think you're abnormal?"

"It's just, just that ....... you just now ....... just touched me a little and
I felt strange."

You XiaoMo buries his head into his chest. This type of thing should
be a very intimate matter ba?

Hearing these words, Ling Xiao can't help but burst out laughing. He
had thought it was a serious matter and it turns out that it is this
little thing. This is really something very normal. If he didn't feel
anything wouldn't that mean his technique is too bad? Ling Xiao feels
that he is making a big deal over a small matter. He simply lifts him
out from his arms and says while looking into his bright red face,
"Little brother, love between men is in line with the principles of
heaven and earth. You don't have to feel that you are abnormal."

You XiaoMo pouts, "Shouldn't it be man and woman?"

Ling Xiao rubs his head gently, smiling lightly, "It's all the same."

You XiaoMo looks at him doubtfully, "Really?"

He still feels that it's not quite right.

"Of course. This type of thing, it's only important that the feeling is
there. No one will care if it is between a man and a woman or a man
and a man. Just like you have feelings for me and I have feelings for

460
you. Doesn't this prove that we are right for each other?"

Ling Xiao caresses his cheeks.

You XiaoMo looks at him while saying, "I still feel that your smile is
somewhat evil."

Ling Xiao smiles as he says, "Be good. This is my very honest smile."

You XiaoMo thinks it over and says, "But I still think that I'm a little
abnormal. The last time you touched me, I didn't feel such a strong
reaction."

Hearing him speak this way, Ling Xiao finally thinks that his sensitivity
is actually a little abnormal. Normal people will have their sensitive
spots but they wouldn't get so sensitive from just one touch. He still
remembers clearly, You XiaoMo lying in his arms with a bright red
face while his whole body seemed to have lost all its strength.

"Take off your clothes."

Ling Xiao says suddenly.

"What?"

You XiaoMo quickly grips his clothes tightly. This person, weren't
they just talking nicely? The next second he is asking him to take off
his clothes? Such an animal.

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his lips revealing an evil smile, mocking
lightly, "Didn't you say that your body is abnormal? I'll help you look
at it now. See if there's something wrong ah!"

461
You XiaoMo hesitates .......

Why does he feel that Elder brother Ling's smile is a little strange?
Just like the children's tale between the big bad wolf and little red
riding hood?

462
Chapter 82 - ?
Fair white skin tinged with rosy red. Like a piece of highest grade
fine jade, sparkling and translucent. White and flawless, even more
so than the most beautiful suet white jade. Although the body is very
thin, not appearing to have more than one ounce of flesh, but when
the clothes are taken off, those pieces of flesh are evenly distributed
all over as if according to an exquisite master plan. Not an ounce in
excess, not lacking an ounce.

Such a beautiful body, Ling Xiao doesn't seem to be able to tear his
eyes away.

He had known long ago when he touched his body that You XiaoMo's
body can't be too shabby, but looking at it with his own eyes still
leaves him speechless.

Although the four limbs are slender like a woman's, it is actually

much better. Soft, yielding and supple. No wonder he was so
reluctant to let go.

Ling Xiao has always disliked the weak and slender appearance of
women. He would get annoyed each time he sees it. But You
XiaoMo's softness comes with a hint of manliness. Especially his
temperament. When he gets stubborn, even ten oxen won't be able
to turn him around. This point is what separates him from the
hesitant and indecisive women.

Seeing the barefaced look of Ling Xiao, tinged with vaguely apparent
desire, You XiaoMo shrinks into himself.

Ling Xiao's words are a little too convincing. Before, he was really

463
worried that he had contracted some illness. In the end he comes to
terms with it. Actually in his heart, two men facing each other openly
is nothing to be ashamed of. Like when he was younger, he bathed
and slept with his elder and younger brothers. There were even
times when he changed clothes in front of them.

These things are really nothing but ever since Ling Xiao started to
make his moves on him, he feels that his view of the world has been
turned upside down.

So this time, facing each other openly, he has no way of staying

composed as he was with his elder and younger brothers.

"Have you seen enough already?"

You XiaoMo yells in embarrassment. He has already stared for half a

day.

Ling Xiao returns to his senses. His gaze shifts reluctantly from his
body to his face. Soft and white, making him wish even more to
pounce on him and take a bite. But he is afraid that it would scare
him away so he can only restrain himself, "There is really no major
problems with your body, but ....... "

"But what?"

You XiaoMo asks nervously. He is delighted when he hears the first

part. But the twist in the last part scares him.

Ling Xiao sighs. He pinches his cheeks over and over only letting go
just before he gets mad. He picks up his hand saying, "Little brother,
don't tell me you don't think your skin is even more delicate than a
woman's?"

464
You XiaoMo looks dumbly at his own arm. He suddenly remembers
that his skin seems to be much better now than how it was two
months ago.

Two months ago, the skin of his arms was only a little white. A far
way from the fairness of congealed fat. At most, it was a little better
than others of the same age. No way was it like it is now. His whole
arm is sparkling, translucent and lustrous. It seems as if with just one
puff or tap, it would shatter like the most delicate porcelain. Because
he sees it everyday, he doesn't realize that his skin has been
changing little by little. Changing so much that it is now on a
completely different level than what is was two months ago.

Looking at the rest of his body, it is all soft and white, sparkling and
translucent with a touch of pink. Even newborn babies wouldn't have
skin like this ba.

You XiaoMo's eyes fall to the ground. With a body like his, still
wanting to be a big strong man? In his wildest dreams ba!

Ling Xiao grins as he catches his drooping body. Just the time for him
to take advantage. He knows that You XiaoMo's biggest dream is to
be an awe-inspiring man. But this weak body is clearly too different
from the big and tall, brave and fierce man in his imagination. As
different as the sky and the ground. It would be strange if it isn't a
huge blow to him!

"Why is it like that? wuwu ....... "

You XiaoMo sobs in Ling Xiao's arms.

Ling Xiao quickly pats him lightly on the back, helping to alleviate his

465
frustration, afraid that he would choke if he cries too forcefully. His
movements are careful so as to not leave any trace on his body, "Be
good. Don't cry. Actually, this is really not something bad ....... "

Before he could finish his words, You XiaoMo suddenly sits up, both
his eyes big wide orbs, glaring at Ling Xiao, "What do you mean by
that?"

"No, don't misunderstand. That's not what I mean. Listen to me

explain bit by bit."

Ling Xiao feels that the You XiaoMo now is especially cute. Looking at
that face fuming with anger, along with that pout. One could possibly
hang two catties of pork on that little mouth. He really wants to plant
his lips on him but he is now still angry so he can only restrain
himself for the sake of his future happiness.

You XiaoMo huffs, a complete reversal of roles.

Usually he would be secretly extremely delighted at this but now he

doesn't even have the opportunity to grieve, so where would he find
time to notice these things.

Ling Xiao is perfectly satisfied as he hugs him, both hands wreaking

havoc all over his body while he uses his words to distract him, "Little
brother, let me first ask you this. When did you start bathing in the
magic water in the dimension?"

You XiaoMo grimaces as he counts, "About two months ago. Because

Earth peak rules dictate that we can only take water once every
three days so I decided to bathe in the dimension."

"I think I've found the answer."

466
Ling Xiao sighs on the surface but is secretly extremely delighted.

"You can't be saying that this has something to do with the magic
water in the dimension ba?"

He hopes that he would hear words of denial from his mouth.

"This, really has to do with the magic water. The magic water in the
dimension is the most pure water on heaven and earth. It was
formed bit by bit from accumulated spiritual energy. Furthermore,
magic water, from time immemorial, has always had the ability to
transform. You're bathing in magic water everyday and drinking
quite a bit of it when you're refining magic pills. After two months, it
would be strange if there is no change in your body."

Ling Xiao taps his nose. His eyes gleams as he thinks that it must be
fate for this person to belong to him since he was the one that found
him.

You XiaoMo wants to throw up blood. After all this time, it was all
caused by his own cleverness. Now he deeply understands that there
is no free lunch in this world. God gave him a gold finger but forcibly
stripped him of his dreams. Within this misery, he can only swallow it
down and slowly mull over it.

"I will no longer use the magic water to bathe, nor drink anymore
magic water."

You XiaoMo hammers his chest fiercely, gritting his teeth as he

swears.

Ling Xiao hastily catches his hand and consoles him saying, "Little

467
brother, it doesn't have to be like that. Even if you continue to use
magic water, there won't be any change. Two months is enough to
cleanse your body of all impurities. Furthermore, a body like this is
not without advantages."

"What advantages?"

You XiaoMo glares at him. He doesn't believe that he can come up

with any advantages. He has now changed to such an extent. The
happiest one most likely is also him and that is the truth!

Ling Xiao leans back on the bed post, his hair scattered over his
chest. Looking at him, he slowly raises the corner of his mouth
saying, "Don't tell me you don't feel that you are now more efficient
when refining magic pills? And when you practice that Heavenly Soul
Scroll, it goes more smoothly each time?"

You XiaoMo blinks. He really did feel it. Actually, he felt it over a
month ago.

His current soul force, when compared to how it was before, is more
than twice as strong. Furthermore, he feels that he will soon
breakthrough the first level of the Heavenly Soul Scroll. As for
refining magic pills, he feels that he is getting more and more
proficient. Especially when it comes to forming the magic pill. It's
getting easier and easier. But ....... he always thought that it is
because of his ability .......

But now Ling Xiao is telling him that it is all due to the magic water.

"That, it seems it really is so ....... "

You XiaoMo stammers, his eyes rolling here and there, anywhere

468
except at Ling Xiao.

Seeing him suddenly retract his claws, and instead looking left and
right, Ling Xiao reveals a crafty smile when he isn't looking. How
could he not know what he is thinking? But this is better than that
sobbing and depressed manner from a little while ago.

Thinking like this, Ling Xiao moves in next to his ear, saying, "Little
brother. If you think about it carefully, regarding this matter, the
good you got out of this is much more than the bad. Although your
body is much more sensitive than before, but at the same time, your
refining magic pills capability also increased. I remember what you
said before. In a few more months you will have to undergo the
assessment. If you are unable to refine a level two magic pill, not
only will you lose face, your Master and brothers will also be made
fun of by others. Do you wish to let Heaven peak and Flying peak
make fun of you all?"

"Of course not."

You XiaoMo grips his fists tightly, saying indignantly. This matter is
buried deep inside his heart. Although he has the Heavenly Soul
Scroll, he still lacks confidence in his heart. So he has always been
very uncertain.

"That's good. Even though the you now can't refine a level two magic
pill, I think that day should not be too far away."

Ling Xiao nods as he says with a smile.

You XiaoMo's eyes sparkle as his heart starts to surge from his
words. He feels even more eager for that day to come.

469
Ling Xiao lifts the hair that is draped naturally over his shoulder. Soft
and supple, shiny like lustrous silk. Setting of his fair like jade skin.
The corners of his mouth suddenly lift up to reveal a devilish smile,
"Little brother. You're no longer heartbroken ba?"

You XiaoMo turns around to see Ling Xiao inches from him. His
expression is a little uneasy as he clears his throat saying, "Barely
....... but I can manage ba."

"Then we can now continue with what we were doing earlier ba?"

Ling Xiao grips his arm, pulling the two of them extremely close
together.

The fine hairs on You XiaoMo's body suddenly stand on end. He had
completely forgotten about this matter.

Ling Xiao beams. It's finally time to get down to it.

Notes:
? - emoji for Orz
bitter gourd face - grimaces
freed slaves singing - liberated

470
Chapter 83 - Kong Wen's questions
The next day, Fu ZiLin comes to knock on Ling Xiao's door early in
the morning.

Because the Central lineage competition ended ahead of time, they

can also leave ahead of time.

The reason Fu ZiLin is here is precisely regarding the matter of

leaving. Because he is You XiaoMo's Second brother, and the both of
them came over together, so he must ensure that the both of them
also leave together. Otherwise Master and Elder brother would
question him.

Last night, You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao went at it for who knows how
long. When Fu ZiLin knocks at the door, he is still inside the quilt
dead asleep. How could he possibly hear the sound of knocking? The
one who goes out to open the door is Ling Xiao. It's also not clear
what he says to Fu ZiLin but in the end, Fu ZiLin leaves by himself.
You XiaoMo has no knowledge of this matter.

When he wakes up, the sun is already three poles high. You XiaoMo
tunnels out of the quilt, rubbing his still asleep eyes. He cranes his
neck looking outside but doesn't see any sign of Ling Xiao. It's
relatively quiet today. The past two days, at this time, it was already
as noisy as a boiling cauldron outside.

Remembering that the competition is over, You XiaoMo feels

relieved. He gets up and washes up. Seeing that Ling Xiao has not
returned, You XiaoMo opens the door and walks next door. He
knocks on Zhou Peng's door, "Second brother, Second brother, are
you in there?"

471
After calling repeatedly a few times without getting any answer, You
XiaoMo thinks that Fu ZiLin must have gone out because he had
something to do. He was just about to return to the room when he
hears the door opening from the room next to Zhou Peng's. A normal
looking yet amiable guy walks out. Seeing him, he says, "You are
Junior brother You ba. You're looking for your Big brother? He
already left."

You XiaoMo had just turned away. When he hears these words he
immediately turns back around and throws out a string of questions
*pi li pa la*, "What did you say? Big brother Fu already left? When?"

"Yes ah. I remember it was the Chen period. When I left my room I
saw your big brother knocking on Elder brother's door."

Seeing the look of astonishment on his face, the man doesn't

understand why.

You XiaoMo remembers tragically that at that time he seemed to

have been sleeping like a dead pig.

The man sees that his face is so twisted, almost forming a ball,
probably worried because he is left here by himself, so he consoles
him, "You don't have to worry. Elder brother will send you back."

It's because of him that I'm worried OK! You XiaoMo grumbles
inwardly. That person must have not woken him up on purpose. For
sure he has some evil intentions. Before returning to the room, he
thanks the man. If he didn't tell him, he would still be thinking that
Second brother is still here.

Returning to the room, he starts to pack his things. No matter when

472
Ling Xiao takes him back, he is determined to leave today before the
sun goes down. If not, there would definitely be talk confirming that
he and Ling Xiao have some secret relationship, some scarlet news.

Ling Xiao did not let him wait long. He comes back just when he
finishes packing his things. He's not surprised when he sees that the
room no longer has anything belonging to him.

You XiaoMo is worried that he isn't willing to bring him back today so
he quickly blurts out, "The competition has ended. I want to leave
today. When are you planning to bring me back? Or am I going back
by myself?"

"You can leave whenever you want."

Ling Xiao is somewhat amused looking at his nervous expression. Can

it be, he thinks that I will keep detaining him here? Even if he wanted
to, it would still require the approval of Tang Fan but he doesn't
think that wily old fox would approve. After all, Central lineage is not
just any old place, for anyone to come and go as they please, even
though You XiaoMo already swore an oath. Also there's the matter
of Elder Jiang coming to harm that is not yet resolved so he doesn't
want You XiaoMo to stay on here.

You XiaoMo obviously didn't expect him to answer so frankly. After

being stunned for a moment, he can't help but feel a little ashamed
of his pettiness. Seems like he has misjudged Ling Xiao. He simply
didn't have those intentions he imagined.

That afternoon, Ling Xiao brings him back just as he said he would.

Because the competition of the other four lineages have not

concluded, he simply brings him back to Fang ChenLe.

473
Fang ChenLe learned earlier from Fu ZiLin that Ling Xiao was the one
taking care of You XiaoMo these few days. So he isn't surprised to
see them appear together, only thanking him politely for taking care
of You XiaoMo.

Although Ling Xiao is not happy that You XiaoMo is too close to Fang
ChenLe, he still wouldn't express it in front of everyone, so he leaves
after exchanging a few words.

"Little brother, seeing your energy, you must have had it easy these
few days. But we will soon be busy. The competition of the four
lineages is not like Central lineage because injuries are very common,
so we may soon get very busy."

After sending off Ling Xiao with his eyes, Fang ChenLe speaks warmly
to You XiaoMo by his side.

You XiaoMo resists the look of envy from others and says awkwardly,
"I understand, Elder brother."

That afternoon, You XiaoMo finally finds out to what extent Elder
brother's 'very busy' actually means.

The twenty over people from Earth peak are so busy that their feet
don't even touch the ground. First, someone gets hurt in ring
number one. Then someone gets hurt in ring number two and
number three, making them hurry over. Running back and forth, You
XiaoMo feels it's too much to bear for the whole afternoon.

This situation carried on until the afternoon two days later. That
afternoon, Uncle Zhao lets them pack up their own things and return
to Earth peak. Everyone is lifeless not even bothering to eat or bathe.

474
Other than Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin, the others sleep until the sun is
three poles high.

The next day, not long after You XiaoMo wakes up, someone tells
him that he is to go over to see his Master.

You XiaoMo thinks that Master must want to talk about matters
regarding the Central lineage so he doesn't dare to dawdle. Fifteen
minutes later, he sets out for Kong Wen's compound. On the way, he
repeatedly looks at the magic herb garden. Sure enough, he catches
sight of several familiar looking magic herbs, roughly the same as
those he dug out from the ice cave.

Thinking of that he feels even more impatient towards going to the

second level of the library.

"Come in ba."

Just as he is thinking that, Kong Wen's voice calls out from inside.

You XiaoMo puts away his unnecessary thoughts, pushes the door
and steps in. This is his first time in Kong Wen's study. The last time,
it was the backyard. Studies usually have lots of books. Kong Wen's
study is no exception but You XiaoMo smells a faint delicate
fragrance. Subconsciously he looks around the inside of the study
and sure enough, on the window sill, there are a few pots of
blooming magic herbs, red as fire. Under the illumination of sunlight,
the magnificent blooms are bursting with colorful rays of light.

This is again a magic herb that he doesn't recognize!

But You XiaoMo can still tell that this magic herb is better than any of
the magic herbs outside. The concentration of the spiritual energy

475
and the way it is growing is all top grade. It shouldn't be an ordinary
high level magic herb. Otherwise, Kong Wen would not have
purposely put them in the study to take care of them. He also notices
that the earth in the pots are red in color, not black like the soil in his
dimension.

Kong Wen turns around and catches sight of him unable to stop
looking in time. A faint look of amusement appears on his face as he
says, "Do you know what magic herb this is?"

You XiaoMo is a little surprised, hastily shaking his head, cupping his
hands saying, "Disciple doesn't know."

Kong Wen stretches out his slender fingers and lightly strokes the
petals of the magic herb, saying softly, "This is the level eight magic
herb Flame flower. It is not the same as low level magic herbs. It's
real essence is contained in the eight flower petals. Extremely
precious. You only need to pluck one of the petals when refining
magic pills. But if the Flame flower is low grade, the four petals are
required."

You XiaoMo's eyes open wide. Truly enlightening.

This thing is actually a level eight magic herb. One really can't tell.
But the difference between high grade and low grade is really too
great.

Kong Wen sees his face full of curiosity and envy. He can't keep his
serious face from turning into a light smile, "You don't have to be
envious. Wait until you're a level four mage. Then you can also have
your own magic herb garden. At that time you can plant whatever
you want."

476
You XiaoMo is a little embarrassed. By the time he becomes a level
four mage, who knows what year what month it will be ne!

"Master heard that ....... when you went to the Central lineage, you
stayed together with Lin Xiao. The relationship between the two of
you seems to be very good?"

Kong Wen looks at his face, launching into the topic without any
warning.

When You XiaoMo hears the word 'heard' he raises his guard. Sure
enough, this is the real reason why Master called him over. Finally he
hears him raise the matter between him and Ling Xiao. Luckily he
prepared himself before coming over so he is rather calm, but he still
pretends to be surprised.

"Elder brother Lin is a good big brother. Knowing that it is my first

time going, he let me stay with him. Our relationship is pretty good
ba. But most of the time Elder brother Lin is the one taking care of
me."

Kong Wen taps his fingers lightly on the desk, giving out a *dong
dong dong* clear crisp sound.

You XiaoMo cautiously swallows. He feels his heartbeat being pulled

along by that sound, scaring him so that he doesn't dare to take deep
breaths.

"Ah, your luck is really much better than other disciples. Lin Xiao is
indeed quite a fine person. Looking at this strength and his ability to
rally supporters, it is clear why he is the number one person in the
warrior division. No one can tell what the future holds, you should
seize it properly."

477
Kong Wen gets up and walks up to him, patting him lightly on his
shoulder, advising him in his capacity as his senior and master. His
tone is very warm.

"Disciple will definitely remember Master's words."

You XiaoMo lowers his head as he speaks.

"It's good if you keep it in mind. Oh right, I heard Elder brother say
that your cauldron is broken. Later, go the Hall of Enchanted Herbs
and get a good one from your Uncle Zhao. Alright, you can go ba.
Master is tired."

Saying this, Kong Wen rubs his eyes, waving his hands sending him
away. Maybe he refined magic pills the whole night so he feels
fatigued in the morning.

"Then disciple will take his leave. Have a good rest, Master."

Hearing these words, You XiaoMo is a little surprised inside. He only

brought this up to Elder brother yesterday. He didn't expect Elder
brother to immediately inform Master. Of course Elder brother is
better, unlike a certain someone.

Of course this opinion cannot be let known to Ling Xiao.

That fellow will definitely find some excuse to make him do things he
isn't willing to do. No matter how he forces him to do those type of
shameful things, he will no longer give him the opportunity!

Notes:

478
sun is already three poles high - late morning
Chen period = 07:00-09:00
scarlet news - sex scandal

479
Chapter 84 - Breakthrough to the second
level
On the way back, You XiaoMo stops by at the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs and picks up a new cauldron along with three hundred stalks
of magic herbs.

The new cauldron is quite a bit better than the previous one. But it is
still one of low quality so You XiaoMo doesn't give up on the idea of
buying an even better one. Still, he can make do with this cauldron
for now.

The cauldron he buys must definitely not appear in front of other

people otherwise everyone would definitely ask where the money
came from. Although he can explain that the money came from him
selling magic pills but everyone knows that low grade level magic
pills can't be sold for much money. He doesn't have to expose his
secrets in front of others just for the sake of a cauldron.

Upon returning to Earth peak, time is now all his own.

You XiaoMo locks himself in his room and first uses the magic herbs
he picked up to try refining a magic pill. He discovers that when he
introduces his soul force into the cauldron, the feeling is smoother
and easier than it was with the previous cauldron. He no longer has
to be like before, worried that the cauldron won't be able to take too
much soul force causing it to explode.

After making this discovery, You XiaoMo refines one hundred magic
pills in one go in five hours. His speed is much faster than before. He
actually only bolstered himself once with magic water during this
time. This means that his current soul force is sufficient to refine fifty

480
magic pills in one go.

Before, he wouldn't have dared to imagine this because he could

only refine twenty magic pills at one go before. Sometimes, not even
twenty. Now it's more than double. He is super excited!

You XiaoMo tries to restrain his heart from jumping for joy endlessly
and takes out one hundred stalks of magic herbs from the
dimension.

They are rock jasmine, winter ice herb, and korean mint. These three
magic herbs are used to refine the Accumulate energy magic pill. You
XiaoMo had refined and sold several tens of Accumulate energy
magic pills before but those were all low grade magic pills. As far as
he knows, if a top grade Accumulate energy magic pill is used to
open up the body's meridians, the meridians would expand,
benefiting any subsequent training.

That's why many rich and powerful families would prepare a high
grade Accumulate energy magic pill for their disciples before they
start training. Although the market for the Accumulate energy pill is
not as large as that for the Fasting magic pill, it is still in demand. And
just like the Fasting magic pill, a bottle of fifty pills is enough to be
sold at auction.

So he decides to refine fifty Accumulate energy magic pills.

Fifty magic pills can't be considered a lot nor can it be considered

little. It would take at least twenty hours.

In order to get ready the things for auction as soon as possible, You
XiaoMo decides to stay up the whole night. Without the presence of
the one that loves to harass him, Ling Xiao, he is a hundred percent

481
confident, inspite of the effect that the magic water would have on
him. This shows that You XiaoMo has now accepted it!

Just like Ling Xiao said, since his body has already changed as much
as it can, there probably won't be any additional side effects if he
continued drinking magic water. So it would be a waste not to
continue drinking it bei.

You XiaoMo goes into seclusion once again!

When Fang ChenLe hears about this, he can't help but shake his
head. He feels that this Little brother really likes to go into seclusion.
At this time, other people would usually go visit one another and get
to know the other disciples or try to seek connections in higher
places. It's only him that when nothing is going on, he hides in his
room, when something is going on, he also hides in his room.

Although he knows that Little brother would have to undergo the

assessment in a few months, he still doesn't have to go all out like
this. Refining magic pills is basically something that should be done
slowly. Step by step with feet on solid ground is the correct way to
proceed.

But that is his own decision so it's not good for him to say anything.

This news naturally also spreads to Ling Xiao's ears. But his reaction
is not like Fang ChenLe's since he knows You XiaoMo's secret. With
the presence of Fasting magic pills and with magic water to replenish
his soul force and physical strength, he can even go into seclusion for
a few months without any problems. So he just asks people to take
notice of when he comes out and notify him.

But unexpectedly, on the second day, something big happens to You

482
XiaoMo's body.

Twenty hours later is already the next morning. Because he drank

magic water, You XiaoMo doesn't feel tired out so he toughs it out
and refines forty Fasting magic pills. Including the previous ten pills,
he amassed fifty pills. His soul force is also just depleted. Because he
is too tired, You XiaoMo doesn't manage to drink magic water before
passing out on the table .......

This sleep goes on for two days and two nights. When he wakes up,
he finds that there has been a huge change in his body. The
previously on the point of depletion soul force, after resting for two
days and two nights, is now fully charged. But the amount is twice
the amount of two days ago. That is to say, his soul force suddenly
doubled in the course of two days.

You XiaoMo is pleasantly surprised to discover that he has broken

through the first level of the Heavenly Soul Scroll.

He wants to pinch his own cheeks to check if he is dreaming but his

hands are numb!

His hands served as his pillow for two days so there was no way for
blood to flow causing them to lose all feeling. He wants to drink
magic water but can't. Luckily his body has already been transformed
by magic water. If not, it could possibly have become disabled. After
half an hour, both his hands slowly regain their feeling. The first thing
You XiaoMo does is to drink magic water.

Just when the magic water was about to roll down his throat, he
suddenly thinks of something. It seems he forgot to drink magic
water two days ago, that's why he passed out on the table. But when
he wakes up he discovers that he has broken through the Heavenly

483
Soul Scroll.

Does that mean that not drinking magic water has something to do
with his breakthrough?

But ....... a few days ago when he was over at Ling Xiao's, there was
once when he didn't drink magic water. At that time, it didn't seem
as if his soul force underwent any changes. He would have known if
it did.

You XiaoMo's brain with its limited capacity immediately crashes.

Looks like he will have to go to the library to check up on this. If

there are materials on this aspect then of course that would be good.
But if there isn't, he would just wait until he sees Ling Xiao again.
Since he's so awesome, he must know what this is all about.

At this time, You XiaoMo has no idea that he is slowly moving

towards relying on Ling Xiao. By the time he realizes this, he and Ling
Xiao would have already 'joined together'!

In seclusion for three and a half days, actually, after sleeping for two
days, You XiaoMo finally comes out of seclusion.

The first thing he does after coming out of seclusion is to head to the
library.

When Fang ChenLe finds out about this, he doesn't know whether to
laugh or cry. Unable to take it any longer, he decides to catch him at
the library. If it were to go on like this, he is afraid that Little
brother's body won't be able to take it. But when he catches sight of
Little brother's rosy cheeks, he chokes back all the unsaid words
brewing in chest.

484
You XiaoMo's condition is not the least bit like someone that has just
come out from three and a half days of seclusion. His cheeks are rosy
as if he has just received some nourishment. His outward
appearance is not haggard like other disciples when they emerge
from seclusion. Instead he looks like someone that has just come
back from a resort area, fresh like the spring breeze.

Fang ChenLe can't help thinking of something. Little brother had

gone into seclusion for over one month before. That time, his
condition was also like now. Normal people most probably won't be
like this ba? Thinking like this, Fang ChenLe can't help getting
suspicious.

"Little brother, I heard that you went into seclusion. This time for
three and a half days. How is it you ....... "

Before he could finish his questioning words, You XiaoMo hastily cuts
him off. Putting both palms together, with a bashful face, he says,
"I'm sorry Elder brother. I didn't mean to do it. It's just that I
accidentally fell asleep for two days, and overslept ....... "

Fang ChenLe " ....... "

So the truth is he overslept?

Seeing that he is not saying a word, You XiaoMo doesn't stop

apologizing. In the end, he even promises to let him know before he
goes into seclusion again. Making a fuss until Fang ChenLe doesn't
know whether to laugh or cry.

Why would he be mad because he didn't tell him? He is mad because

he goes into seclusion without taking care of his body but he can't

485
tell him that. But the most important point is that it is too deceitful.
He never expected that he could have overslept. Looks like the one
month of seclusion the last time must have gone something like this.

You XiaoMo has no idea that what he carelessly said defused a whole
lot of trouble for him.

"Ok, ok, Elder brother also doesn't want to criticize you. Elder
brother also isn't angry. As long as you pay more attention the next
time and not only care about refining magic pills while forgetting
about your limits. You have to know ....... "

Fang ChenLe is just like a nanny, once he starts, he can go on for

most of the day. But this is also one of his big part of his character. If
not, his popularity wouldn't be as high as it is.

You XiaoMo can't get a word in so he can only nod awkwardly at his
side.

After an hour, Fang ChenLe finally lets him go. You XiaoMo runs like
fleeing for his life into the library. He no longer dares to provoke
Elder brother. Too formidable. Speaking until he almost suffered
another system crash.

You XiaoMo often goes to the library to borrow books so the old man
is very familiar with him. Not waiting for him to walk up to him, he
simply takes the second level tablet and flings it at him.

You XiaoMo hurriedly catches the tablet. Upon seeing that the tablet
is not like the ones he got before, he is surprised making him blurt
out, "Uncle Yang, how did you know I wanted to go to the second
level?"

486
Old man Yang looks at him expressionlessly, not saying a word.

You XiaoMo clenches the tablet in his hand tightly. Fine ba. He knows
he is being belittled. He knows that he often comes to borrow books,
basically all the books on the first level that is related to mages have
been read by him. So this question is pointless. Even he wants to
belittle himself.

The second level of the library is just like he imagined, an advanced

version of the first level. He finds the books he is looking for on the
bookshelves, alchemy manuals and magic herb compendiums. There
were four books on these two topics alone. Among them, three
books are magic herb compendiums of one anthology. In them,
magic herbs from level four to level six are presented in detail. Other
than listing their usefulness and characteristics, even the places
where they grow on LongXiao continent is also clearly recorded.

As for books on the soul force, he couldn't find any even after
searching the entire second level of the East and West pavilions.

After taking the books, You XiaoMo bids farewell to Old man Yang.

As a result, when he happily pushes open the door to his room, and
sees the seated figure of a certain impudent person inside his room,
his first response is to shut the door, shutting himself outside .......

Notes:
rock jasmine - Androsace Umbellata
winter ice herb - Rabdosia Rubescens
korean mint - Agastache Rugosa

487
Chapter 85 - Really no improvement
Think you can shut yourself outside the room? Don't even think
about it!

Just when he shuts the door, Ling Xiao is one step faster, picking him
up and carrying him in. Then he turns around and kicks the door
*peng*, just like the sound of You XiaoMo's heart's sudden jump.

"Run what run ah. Little brother, don't tell you you don't want to see
me?"

Ling Xiao smiles as he looks at him. His smiling face is so dazzling like
the early morning first rays of sunlight.

You XiaoMo really feels that the way Ling Xiao treated him three
days ago, carefully protecting him, is all an illusion. Now, this
domineering Ling Xiao is the real one. The evil smile is so familiar ah.
Every time he sees it, his heart will shiver, making him worry that he
will again come out with whatever to torment him. But he must
absolutely never tell him this.

Hearing his words, You XiaoMo ponders a bit before smiling meekly,
"How can that be? It's not that I don't want to see you. I just
suddenly remembered that I forgot a book."

Ling Xiao glares at him up and down for a good while, as if trying to
see if he is lying.

You XiaoMo keeps smiling until the corners of his mouth start to
stiffen.

488
"I'll believe you for now."

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his mouth, finally no longer staring at
his face.

You XiaoMo immediately heaves a sigh of relief. Being stared at by

those eyes of his is really not just some regular heavy pressure.
Luckily he already got his face ready before then, "Elder brother Ling,
is there something you need?"

"Can't I come if there's nothing?"

Ling Xiao casts a sidelong glance at him and sees his expression
immediately wither, as if he feels extremely wronged. Seeing this, a
faint gleaming layer appears in his jet-black eyes. He says warmly,
"Ok, I won't tease you anymore. There really is something. In a bit, I
will be going over to Yun Shui peak. Are you interested in going with
me?"

"Why are you going to Yun Shui peak?"

You XiaoMo asks in surprise.

"Of course it is to pick up the three stalks of level six magic herbs.
You can't have forgotten about it ba?"

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes slightly, managing to squeeze out a

devilish and forbidding aura on his bright handsome face. One could
say it looks out of place yet it is somewhat fitting, as if it is only
natural.

Speaking of Yun Shui peak, although You XiaoMo rarely leaves his
room, he has still heard of the famous Yun Shui peak.

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Yun Shui peak is located behind Earth peak, Heaven peak and Flying
peak. It is a place that is even more restricted than the library
because it is specially used to cultivate mid and high level magic
herbs for TianXin sect. A formidable protective barrier encloses the
place and it is guarded by ten powerful Elders. One can call it an
impregnable fortress!

The Uncle Ye that Tang Fan mentioned before is one of the Elders
taking care of the magic herbs in Yun Shui peak. His power is
probably not as strong as Kong Wen or Mo Gu and people of that
level but when it comes to his ability in cultivating magic herbs, he
can be called the number one in TianXin sect.

Ling Xiao's first place win, other than the three level six magic pills,
also includes three stalks of level six magic herbs. He already has the
magic pills in his hand but he has to get the magic herbs from that
Uncle Ye. That's because only the magic herbs cultivated by Uncle Ye
is considered as belonging to the whole TianXin sect. As for the
magic herbs from the three different peaks, they are taken care of by
their own disciples so strictly speaking, they are considered the
private property of the respective peaks.

But, You XiaoMo swallows, "You going to get the magic herbs doesn't
seem to have anything to do with me ba?"

"Who says it has nothing to do with you? I have no use for those
three stalks of level six magic herbs. If I don't give them to you, then
who?"

Ling Xiao waves his large hand, speaking matter of factly as if this is
how is should be.

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You XiaoMo is stunned, saying, "But ....... didn't that Sister Tang
come looking for you asking for it?"

"Her?"

Ling Xiao frowns, finally reminded of that annoying Little sister. He

then says in a fed up voice, "Why should I give them to her? The one
who wants to give magic herbs to her is Lin Xiao, not me."

You XiaoMo can't help but sympathize with Tang YunQi for a bit, but
what Ling Xiao says is not wrong.

But, even though it is like this, he still can't take them. He believes
that a lot of the disciples are definitely looking on, waiting to see
how Ling Xiao would distribute the three stalks of magic herbs. If he
were to take the three stalks of magic herbs that Ling Xiao gives him,
what would those people think of his relationship with Ling Xiao?

Of course this is only one of the problems. More importantly, he is

only an Earth peak disciple. And Tang YunQi is the direct disciple of
the leader of Heaven peak. She is also the daughter of the Grand
Master, a status that can't get any higher. For Ling Xiao to give the
magic herbs to whomever, is to declare his position on whichever
side. Even though this would be advantageous for Earth peak, You
XiaoMo still doesn't want to be the fuse between Heaven peak and
Earth peak.

He is only a small fry. Standing in the limelight is definitely not

something he can endure right now.

"Elder brother Ling, I still have things to do. How about you go first
and when I'm done with my things, then I will go over and look for
you?"

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You XiaoMo asks cautiously. Refusing blankly may make Ling Xiao
angry. If that happens, he would definitely just drag him over by
force.

Ling Xiao hears these words and immediately starts to laugh. He grips
his shoulder and says softly into his ear, "Little brother, let me ask
you now. Going or not?"

You XiaoMo sees his smiling face and suffers a fierce shudder, " .......
going."

Ling Xiao is very pleased with this answer. He takes advantage of this
opportunity to lightly pat his white tender cheeks, "Ah, wouldn't it be
better if you answer like this right from the beginning? You still need
me to threaten you every time. Really no improvement!"

Damn!

You XiaoMo even wishes he could die. This type of improvement is

definitely not something he wants!

After feeling restless the whole way, You XiaoMo is finally dragged by
Ling Xiao to Yun Shui peak. From far it appears short and stout. From
near it is a wide gigantic mound that gives off a relaxing feeling.
Completely different from the mountain peaks You XiaoMo has seen
before.

Yun Shui peak when compared to WuShuang peak, and the other
three peaks is rather short and small. Not poking through the clouds,
not able to give rise to mountains and rivers. Definitely not wrapped
in clouds and mist. Instead, lush green dense trees grow on all sides.
From far far away, a large patch of green can be seen.

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You XiaoMo looks as if entranced when Ling Xiao brushes against the
barrier.

A wave of ripples spread out and disappears in an instant. But not

long after, a child of seven or eight years wearing a blue robe
appears looking seventy to eighty percent like an immortal. He looks
serious, even appearing rather dignified. Seeing them, he shows no
signs of surprise, as if he had known that they would come.

The boy's eyes sweep past You XiaoMo and looks straight at Ling
Xiao, his eyes lightly probing, "Are you Young Lin Xiao?"

"It is Lin Xiao."

Ling Xiao cups his hands respectfully as he speaks.

"Come with me ba."

The boy nods lightly and turns around walking into the barrier.

You XiaoMo standing at the side hangs his mouth open slightly, not
believing the scene he just witnessed. Can it be that he is still
dreaming?"

Ling Xiao doesn't explain anything to him, leading him into the
barrier by the hand after the boy. The barrier no longer impedes
them, letting them pass through smoothly. The sight in front of their
eyes immediately takes on a whole new look. Turning into something
completely different from what it appears on the outside. The
spiritual energy inside the barrier is twice as much as outside.

You XiaoMo is now very sensitive to spiritual energy. Just one breath

493
and he can tell that the spiritual energy inside the barrier if flooded
with a faint scent of magic herbs, evident even at the periphery.
Clearly there must be many magic herb fields in Yun Shui peak.

The boy that You XiaoMo thinks is a little strange takes them outside
an estate and tells them Ye Han is inside before leaving. Hearing the
tone of his voice, it's as if Ye Han is lower than him. Of course in this
whole wide universe, there must be all kinds of weird people.

You XiaoMo strongly forces down his wish to question Ling Xiao
about what is really going on, and follows Ling Xiao into the estate.

The estate is very large. Walking in, one immediately sees a tall and
large building. It is not magnificent like those glittering in jade and
gold. It doesn't gladden the heart nor pleases the eye. Rather, it's
simple and unadorned with a practical feel. The building is made up
of long blocks of blue stone stacked together, a completely
straightforward method of construction. The true look of the estate
is only revealed after walking past the building.

Fields of magic herbs. Clusters of bright and beautiful flowers and

lush greens distributed evenly. One look and it is obvious that
someone is taking meticulous care. Some of the magic herbs are
already mature, swaying in the wind. So satisfying. Some have just
sprouted, fresh and green, delighting hearts and eyes.

The thing that is most shocking to You XiaoMo is that most of the
magic herbs are mid-grade, followed by low grade. Top grade is the
least, only one in a hundred. Looking out as far as the eye can see,
it's basically level four to level six magic herbs. When they came in
there was a sign saying so on one side. Level seven and above should
be in some other estate.

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You XiaoMo stares wide-eyed at these magic herbs, flames erupting
periodically in his eyes.

He suddenly rejoices that he came along. If not, he would not have

the chance to see so many magic herbs. Add just when he was
preparing the familiarize himself with all sorts of mid-level magic
herbs. Although they are recorded in the books, it's not as intense as
seeing them with his own eyes. Furthermore, among these magic
herbs, he also sees a few familiar magic herbs.

Ling Xiao smiles in satisfaction as he sees that he is unable to hide his

excitement.

This morning, when he found out that You XiaoMo headed straight
to the library after coming out of seclusion, he knew what he was
thinking. Remembering that he himself has not yet gone to get the
three stalks of magic herbs, he thinks of bringing him along to let him
widen his knowledge. Now, looking at his excited expression, he
knows that his guess was right.

"Let's go ba. Let's go look for Uncle Ye. When the time comes, I'll let
you have the opportunity to go to the magic herb fields and
personally pick out three stalks."

Ling Xiao grabs his hand and pulls him inside.

You XiaoMo firmly restrains the excitement in his heart. He allows

himself to be pulled along with a flushed face. After hearing these
words he feels that he has falsely accused Ling Xiao. Turns out, this
was the reason why he insisted that he came over. He measured the
stature of great men by the yardstick of small men. Thinking like this,
he glances guiltily and uneasily at Ling Xiao.

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Although Ling Xiao is not looking at him, his smile gets even more
brilliant after that guilty glance. This is exactly what he wants!

Notes:
ya4li4shan1da4 is transliterated as Alexander so I assume the author
is just twisting her words and means ya1li4shan1da4 which means
pressure mountain big. The shan1da4 are the same characters for
both phrases. Or maybe she means facing Alexander the Great
instead of just some ordinary Alexander.
metal city with a boiling moat - impregnable

496
Chapter 86 - Meat pie from heaven
He Yan had known for a while that Lin Xiao was the winner of the
grand friendly competition from someone sent over by Tang Fan.

Lin Xiao has won the number one place for the grand competition
five years in a row. This is the fifth time. Even if he didn't know him
before, now he is already familiar. It's just that before, Lin Xiao
always came alone. This time he actually brought a skinny mage with
him, really unexpected.

"Uncle Ye, I've come to get this year's prize."

Seeing Ye Han, Ling Xiao directly states the reason for his visit.

Ye Han looks in surprise at the Ling Xiao that is not quite like the
image in his mind. The Lin Xiao before never used such a cheerful
tone to speak to him. He also wouldn't be so ill-mannered, walking
right in without knocking on the door. But at the bottom of his heart,
he prefers this 'Lin Xiao'.

The Lin Xiao of before, even though he is the number one in the
warrior division, his personality is rather cold. Adhering strictly to the
roles of his duty, speaking straight to the point, each and every
action abiding my rules and regulations. He doesn't treat people with
warm-hearted affection nor does he seem too unfriendly. This type
of just right feeling seems to be deliberately calculated, making him
feel uncomfortable, so Ye Han really didn't feel much connection
with the Lin Xiao from before.

But the current Lin Xiao gives a somewhat different feel. The smile
on his face doesn't seem to be forced.

497
He Yan can't help moving his line of vision to the young one by his
side. Pure glistening eyes, delicate and soft features, a very spiritual
young one. Looks like the one that changed him is indeed this one.
Thinking like this, he more less understands why Lin Xiao brought
him.

You XiaoMo sees him look over, and somewhat overcautiously bows
hastily in greeting, "Best wishes Uncle Ye!"

A light smile suddenly appears on the expressionless face of Ye Han.

He nods slightly at him before turning to Ling Xiao saying, "I was told.
Congratulations on getting first place again. This year's prize is three
stalks of level six magic herbs. They're outside. Go and choose them
yourself ba. Tell me when you have chosen."

"Then thank you very much Uncle Ye."

Ling Xiao cups his hands, saying with a vague smile.

After leaving the range of Ye Han's gaze, You XiaoMo can't help from
heaving a sigh of relief. Although Ye Han is a mage, his aura is very
imposing, worthy of him being a high level mage.

Ling Xiao laughs looking at his huge shock over a small matter
expression, "What are you afraid of ya? In the future you will also be
a great mage."

You XiaoMo takes his words as words of comfort because he himself

is very clear. His innate talent is relatively poor, so he can at most be
a mid-level mage in this lifetime. A high level mage is not something
that he can achieve just because he wants it.

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Level six magic herbs are at the center of the estate, also being the
middle section of all the magic herb fields.

You XiaoMo doesn't know the reason why Uncle Ye arranged them
like this. But thinking about it, it is probably beneficial for the magic
herbs. Thinking further, when he goes back, should he also follow
this method to grow the magic herbs in the dimension?

After they find the magic herb patch, Ling Xiao lets him go over and
choose. The level six magic herbs cultivated by TianXin sect is very
complete. Almost all the level six magic herbs that exist are in there.

You XiaoMo sees that Ling Xiao is watching from one side so he
simply walks over feeling at ease.

Looking from up close of course is much clearer than looking from

afar. But because the level is rather high, the number of mature
magic herbs is not a lot. Seventy to eighty percent are seedlings,
some have only just sprouted.

Looking greedily at these magic herbs, You XiaoMo walks enviously

one round before coming back to the original spot. He more less
remembers them all. He discovers that among these level six magic
herbs, five types are identical to the ones he dug out from the ice
cave. Because each type of level six magic herbs have some that are
mature, he just has to compare to figure it out.

After eliminating the ones he already has, You XiaoMo selects three
stalks of mature magic herbs, the names of which elude him for now.
He had originally wanted to pick those at the seedling stage but if he
were to choose those, where would he plant them?

Everyone knows that he is only a puny level one mage, simply not

499
allowed to have magic herb gardens. So he can't take and plant them
in his dimension, otherwise others would definitely question him.
Master and his brothers would even curse him to death, if he lets go
of the fully matured magic herbs and actually picks the seedlings.
This is something only a fool would do!

So You XiaoMo can only restrain himself even though he really wants
to try growing level six magic herbs.

After choosing the three stalks of magic herbs, You XiaoMo takes out
the little spade he used before from his magic bag. He envelops the
spade with his soul force and starts to dig out the magic herbs. This is
the result he obtained after many rounds of experimentation!

Because the root of the magic herb is like the human body's eight
extraordinary meridians, if it is harmed, the inner spiritual energy
inside the magic herb would leak out. Like this, the quality of the
magic herb will be negatively affected. He already experienced this
phenomenon when he was picking magic herbs in his dimension. Ten
over high grade magic herbs were irreversibly damaged by his
actions turning them into mid-grade magic herbs.

Luckily he has many more, if not he would really want to cry to

death.

From then on, You XiaoMo is more careful in order not to make any
mistakes. He also found out from books that the soul force can be
used to prevent the leaking of spiritual energy from the magic herbs.
After that, he actually didn't damage a single magic herb.

Because he already practiced in the ice cave, You XiaoMo's speed in

digging magic herbs is even faster than before. He dug them out
under fifteen minutes. Three stalks of magic herbs lying neatly and

500
tidily in his hand, roots completely intact, only with bits of soil
clinging to them.

All three stalks of magic herbs are mid-grade magic herbs. He very
much wanted to dig up top-grade magic herbs but after walking one
round, he didn't see even one top-grade magic herb so he could only
give up.

Holding the three stalks of magic herbs, You XiaoMo runs excitedly
towards Ling Xiao.

After getting a clear look, he finds out that He Yan is now standing
next to Ling Xiao from who knows when. He also doesn't know how
long he has been standing there looking at him with what seems to
be surprise.

You XiaoMo doesn't know the reason so he simply shows him the
magic herbs he dug out, "Uncle Ye, I've chosen three stalks of magic
herbs."

Ye Han had seen from afar the magic herbs in his hand but looking at
them up close gives him an even bigger surprise. The three stalks of
magic herbs do not have the slightest bit of damage, especially the
root portion. He could actually manage to dig up not too much dirt
and yet not damage them one bit. Most importantly, his hands are
holding three level six magic herbs.

It must be said that the higher the level of the magic herb, the more
careful one has to be. Otherwise, with just one slip of the hand, a
healthy stalk of high level magic herb will be lost.

His original intention was to let them pick out the magic herbs and
then he would personally dig them out because he was afraid that

501
they would damage the root portion of the magic herb. Now, it
seems that he was clearly worried for nothing.

"Have you helped your Master take care of magic herbs before?"

Ye Han asks suddenly.

You XiaoMo is momentarily stunned before reacting when he

realizes that he was talking to him. He quickly shakes his head, "No, I
haven't helped anyone take care of magic herbs."

Ye Han raises his brows, "Then how do you know to use the soul
force to dig out magic herbs?"

Of course You XiaoMo can't tell him the truth so he simply says, "I
read it in a book. The books said that the root of the magic herb is
very important and also a hundred percent fragile. So when digging
magic herbs, one has to pay attention and use the soul force and
carefully cover it up. I just tried it out and managed to dig it out.
Uncle Ye, did I do something wrong?"

A lot of people know he likes to read books so he isn't afraid of being

found out.

Ye Han sees his cautious manner, and his heart can't help but soften.
Hips lips start to form a slight smile, "It's nothing. You did very well.
You're the smartest person I've seen. Looks like you have a lot of
talent in this area."

You XiaoMo blushes. This is the first time someone has praised him
for being smart. It must be said that ever since his rebirth until now,
most of the time he hears Ling Xiao saying he's stupid. But what has
more to do with it is that he is embarrassed because reading is only a

502
part of it. Experience is the real reason behind it ah!

Ling Xiao hears these words and on the one side smiles slightly while
on the other side looks at You XiaoMo meaningfully.

Of course You XiaoMo senses his gaze making him so ashamed that
he wants to drill underground. If Ye Han had praised him when he
wasn't around, he can still force himself to accept it. But just when
he praises him, there is a certain someone who knows the real
situation standing at his side. This kind of feeling, he can neither
accept or reject it, really too vexing!

Ye Han only thinks that he is being shy, tossing out an invitation,

"Would you be interested in coming here to be my apprentice?"

Ah? You XiaoMo raises his head in surprise.

Ling Xiao standing at the side is also very shocked. In the memory, Ye
Han has never accepted an apprentice before. It's not that he doesn't
want to accept, nor is it that he demands too much, but it's because
his character is a little eccentric so very few people would catch his
eye.

Yet many disciples from the mage division continue to vie to be his
apprentice. Because if they were to become his apprentice, that
would mean they can enter Yun Shui peak and spend time with high
level magic herbs. This would only be beneficial for their future as a
mage.

"But, but ....... I already have a Master."

You XiaoMo stammers with a depressed heart. Of course he wants to

stay here. There are a lot of magic herbs here oh. Thinking of this, his

503
face also reveals a little heartache.

Ye Han looks at his perturbed face that clearly shows that he doesn't
want to refuse and yet is forced to refuse. In the end he can't help
laughing, "Ah, you have misunderstood my meaning. I meant to let
you come here and lend a helping hand. It wouldn't take up too
much of your time. Furthermore, you can learn a lot of things from
me here. Of course, I will also give you fifty merit points every day.
How about it? Want to think it over for a bit?"

You XiaoMo feels dizzy. He is dizzy from being hit by the meat pie
that fell from heaven.

When they leave, it's Ling Xiao that is holding him up as they walk
away.

Note:
meat pie - golden goose

504
Chapter 87 - Kong Wen's aim
When they return to Earth peak, You XiaoMo immediately comes
back to life, seizing Ling Xiao's collar and asking non-stop if what just
happened isn't just him dreaming, bothering Ling Xiao until he
doesn't know whether to laugh or cry. In the end, he raps him a few
times on the head making him come back to his senses.

You XiaoMo covers his head as he exclaims happily, "You're rapping

my head so I'm obviously not dreaming."

Ling Xiao grinds his teeth. Obviously this blockhead is asking for a
beating. If he had known earlier, he would have rapped him a few
more times.

When he calms down from all the excitement, You XiaoMo finally
realizes that he is being carried in Ling Xiao's arms. What is most
vexing is that Ling Xiao is using the princess hold. So Ling Xiao carried
him from Yun Shui peak back to Earth peak?

Ling Xiao understands the look on his face. He bares his teeth as he
smiles, "Congratulations. You've guessed correctly. Just now, a lot of
people witnessed me carrying you back. So let me congratulate you
again. You've become famous yet again."

"No~~~~~~~"

You XiaoMo's miserable shriek reverberates across the whole Earth

peak in a split second.

Ling Xiao really wasn't lying. When he carried him back, a lot of
people saw them, and not just disciples from Earth peak. There were

505
already a lot of people waiting to see who he would give the three
stalks of magic herbs to. After finding out that he is bringing You
XiaoMo to Yun Shui peak today, they can already guess the outcome
yet there are still a lot of people who refuse to believe it right up to
the last moment.

And so, one spreads to ten, ten spreads to a hundred, a hundred

spreads to a thousand. As a result, it's not just the mage division that
knows. It even sweeps across the warrior division being spread by
winds of nosiness. So when You XiaoMo is hiding in his room, there
are already a lot of people talking about this matter.

So by now, You XiaoMo is finally firmly tied to this boat of Ling Xiao,
never to be separated.

Not long after Ling Xiao left, You XiaoMo is once again summoned by
Kong Wen.

This time it's not just Master and disciple having a chat. Rather, it is
held at Earth peak's Assembly Hall. Besides the five big brothers and
big sister NanGong Ying, Uncle Zhao, there are also two Uncles that
You XiaoMo doesn't recognize.

You XiaoMo walks in trembling in fear. This lineup makes him feel as
if he is facing the severity of the combined judgement of three
courts. *ying ying ying* He is only a small potato, nothing more.

"Disciple greets Master."

"Young Seven, do you know why Master called you over?"

Kong Wen's pair of shining eyes fall on him with an expression of

utmost seriousness. As if what he is going to say next is something

506
extremely important.

You XiaoMo thinks and thinks but he really isn't clear. So he plays it
safe and shakes his head, "Disciple doesn't know. Master please
clarify."

Kong Wen suddenly raps his five fingers on the armrest. After a
moment of silence, he says, "Master hears that Yun Shui peak's
Uncle Ye wants to take you as an apprentice. Is this true?"

You XiaoMo's eyes open wide. This seems to have just happened
four hours ago. He didn't expect it to get around so fast. He thought
that Master called him over because of the three stalks of level six
magic herbs, or because of Ling Xiao's strange behavior. Looks like he
is mistaken. He hastily says, "Yes, Uncle Ye let me think it over."

Just as he finished speaking, he hears soft gasps of surprise coming

from both sides.

"Tell us what happened when you went to Yun Shui peak. Make it
crystal clear, understand?"

Kong Wen speaks coldly and sternly.

"Yes Master."

You XiaoMo lowers his head. There is really nothing to hide regarding
this matter. Since Master already knows about this matter, he must
have ways of getting the information. But he also knows that he can't
tell everything. So, except for him only taking fifteen minutes to dig
out the magic herbs, he relates everything else, not leaving out a
single word.

507
After listening to his words, everyone is quiet.

Fang ChenLe didn't react much from the start until he hears the last
words. The warm smile that You XiaoMo is familiar with appears
again on his face, "Little brother, looks like you have not read those
books in vain."

You XiaoMo's mouth twitches as he smiles uncomfortably.

Other people also have more or less heard Fang ChenLe speak about
how You XiaoMo really likes to read. It is said that he would go to the
library every few days to borrow books. He also went this morning
ne.

Kong Wen sighs softly, "Catching Uncle Ye's eye is your good fortune.
But did you consider that with your current strength, even if you go
to Yun Shui peak, it won't do you much good. The lowest magic herb
in Yun Shui peak is level four. And you are now only a level one
mage. If it was your Elder brother or Second brother, then ....... "

Fang ChenLe's pupils expand a little, and just as he is going to speak,

Kong Wen gives him a meaningful glare.

You XiaoMo thinks that he now knows the real reason why Kong
Wen called him over. That burst of excited energy finally disappears.
What Master says is not wrong. He is only a level one mage that can
be found everywhere. Yun Shui peak is a rarefied place. For him to go
would be wasting an opportunity.

Even though he feels that what Master says is right but hearing these
words, he still feels a little hurt.

He is also Master's disciple. It's bad enough that he is not excited for

508
him to get this opportunity. On top of that, he actually hints that he
should give the opportunity to others. Seeing that the others appear
to be in agreement, You XiaoMo's expression gets sadder and
sadder. Fine, luckily the ones that Master suggested are Elder
brother and Second brother. If they really are the ones to go, then he
definitely won't object!

"What Master says is absolutely right. Disciple will tell Uncle Ye the
next time disciple sees him."

You XiaoMo cups his hands and say somewhat dispiritedly.

Immediately Kong Wen and the other two Uncles reveal satisfied
smiles. Only then do they make perfunctory enquiries about his well-
being. Finally, Kong Wen brings up the matter about the three stalks
of level six magic herbs.

You XiaoMo thinks that it will like those scenes on TV where one has
to give up the good stuff as a form of respect for the elders.
Unexpectedly, Kong Wen lets him hold on to them, actually giving
him three jade boxes to store the three stalks of magic herbs.
Supposedly it's for him to use when he becomes a level six mage in
the future. It's essentially a disguised form of compensation ba!

As for why he didn't ask for the magic herbs, it's most probably
because he gave up the opportunity ba.

Returning to his room, You XiaoMo isn't in the mood to do anything.

He collapses on the bed, not able to climb up again.

He feels like he has been riding on a roller coaster the whole day
today. His heart has been thrown violently up and down from
morning until now. His limited brain cells are completely used up,

509
sleeping *hu hu* for four whole hours, only crawling up when the
sun sets.

Then he spends an hour to finally straighten out his chaotic train of

thought. The first thing he does is to let all the swearwords that he
has been holding in for the whole day explode out of his mouth. He
feels much better after venting. Finally he takes stock of all that
happened today.

Three major things happened today.

This first thing is that he got three stalks of level six magic herbs.
Magic herbs of this level for him right now is only something to look
up at.

The second this is that Yun Shui peak's Uncle Ye wants to accept him
as his apprentice. It's too bad that his excitement only lasted a little
while before Master made him give the opportunity to Elder brother
and Second brother. Very depressing. But he is sincerely happy for
Elder brother and Second brother because they are really very
capable. He also admires them very much.

The third thing is that he again offended Tang YunQi. This time it's a
deadly offense.

And that's the end of it. It's basically all these.

As for his own plans for today, not even one fart was completed.

You XiaoMo only remembers now that he wanted to talk to Ling Xiao
about how he broke through the first level of the Heavenly Soul
Scroll. Right up to the time he left, he still didn't think of this matter.
Looks like he can only wait to tell him the next time.

510
You XiaoMo then takes out the three jade boxes that Master gave
him from his storage bag. He has read about these boxes before.
These jade boxes are made out of white jade. Feels especially cold
but it won't freeze the hand. It's made specially to store high level
magic herbs in order to prevent the loss of spiritual power from the
magic herbs.

But there are also many types of jade boxes because there are many
grades of white jade. The higher the grade, the higher the level of
magic herbs that can be stored. Such as the one in his hand. By
looking, one can tell that the quality of the white jade is no ordinary
goods. Master actually said that it can be used to store high level
magic herbs. That must mean level seven and above. He heard that
these kinds of jade boxes are very hard to come by. And he actually
gave him three all at once, really willing to let go of such valuables.

It's just too bad that he doesn't need jade boxes. The dimension in
his chest is flooded with spiritual energy, the best place to store
magic herbs. If he could exchange the jade boxes for level four to
level six magic herb seeds, that would be good. You XiaoMo seems to
be hoping the heavens would open as he does some wishful thinking.

Walking out from the fantasy world, You XiaoMo pats his stiff
cheeks.

After keeping the jade boxes, he first checks to see that the room is
locked properly. He then returns to the bed and with one thought in
his heart, he appears in the dimension.

What greets him is a stretch of fresh green seedlings, all of which are
a mix of level two magic herbs. He no longer plants level one magic
herbs because he will soon use them up, and he also doesn't need

511
too much. So the magic herbs in the field are mostly a mix of level
two magic herbs. He doesn't plant them all since he doesn't have the
strength to use them all. Planting too much is of no use.

You XiaoMo walks over there and ponders the approximate harvest
date for the level two and level three magic herbs. Then he walks to
the rack by the lake.

The ten or so stalks of magic herbs he discovered in the ice cave and
the three stalks of magic herbs that Ling Xiao gave him are lying
peacefully on it. You XiaoMo picks up a sieve and puts them on it. He
then moves to the magic herb field and plants them one by one.

Even though there are still come impurities in them, it's alright, I can
help them wash their insides da!

Notes:
combined judgement of three courts - police, prosecutors and court
of law
ying ying ying - sobbing

512
Chapter 88 - Wishing the heavens would
open
Although Master and those few people made him depressed for a
bit, You XiaoMo very quickly forgets about it.

After returning to his own room, he becomes very busy.

Because it's rare for people to come and disturb him at night, You
XiaoMo stays in the dimension until the morning of the next day with
his mind at ease. During these short hours, he zealously put
everything in order, and at the same time, taking stock of the things
he needs to buy the next time he goes down the mountain.

On top of that, he decides to build a small hut of his own by the lake.
Taking that into account, the things he needs to buy is too much. His
expenses will be one big sum. With his current assets, it's far from
enough. So he has to find some time to bring forward the matter
regarding the auction.

The dimension gives him too much of the feeling of being at home.
Here he can openly do whatever he wants without fear. No need to
worry that others would find out. No need to be anxious and afraid.
Although there is a wide expanse to be weeded, and he has to
painstakingly water the magic herbs everyday, he feels that this type
of living is very fulfilling.

No need to scheme. No need to be on guard against others. Everyday

there are free of charge magic herbs for him to use. Really too
awesome!

Coming out of the dimension, You XiaoMo stretches his body.

513
Looking outside, he sees that the sun has risen. He smacks his lips.

Talking about that, it's been a long time since he ate some regular
rice.

Ever since he refined the Fasting magic pills, he hasn't eaten real
food. Although he hasn't been hungry but his tastebuds have been
unstimulated. It basically feels strange, sometimes actually making
him feel uncomfortable. After all, he lived as a normal person for
eighteen years, eating three meals a day is only normal, almost
instinctive.

So not eating for some time, he feels it's very unnatural. Once he is
idle, he can't help recalling the feeling of chewing rice grains in his
mouth.

You XiaoMo rubs his tummy. Looking outside at the height of the
sun, he determines that breakfast time is not yet over. He tidies up
the room before heading to the canteen.

The canteen is lively as usual. Even though the peak time for
breakfast is over, there are quite a few tables occupied. Male and
female all present. Quite a few of them are indulging in loud and
empty talk. But closely following the entrance of You XiaoMo, the
lively voices gradually start to quiet down. More and more stares
start to fall on You XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo takes one look around before lowering his head.

Very long ago, he figured out that he just can't keep a low profile, so
he learned to ignore their stares.

After scooping out enough food, You XiaoMo carries his tray and sits

514
down at an unoccupied table in a corner. No matter what kind of
stares fall on him, however complicated, or filled with admiration,
jealousy or hate, he ignores them all.

You all like to watch right? Then look all you want. I won't ask for
money.

Maybe feeling that it's boring, everyone finally withdraw their gazes.
But the volume of the conversation is a little less than before. From
time to time, eyes would still glance over at You XiaoMo.

No matter how you put it, although You XiaoMo is not currently in
favor, he is still Kong Wen's disciple. Based on this, no one would
make irresponsible remarks to his face.

You XiaoMo is only too happy for the peace and quiet. Before, when
he just became Kong Wen's disciple, those few brothers all look at
him as if seeing a leader, all running up to him to get on his good
side. Almost annoying him to death.

You XiaoMo has always disliked the atmosphere in the canteen.

Somewhat stifling, especially when he appeared. He hurriedly
finishes the food on his tray and is just about to stand up and clean
up when a figure suddenly appears next to him. Not waiting for him
to raise his head, that person starts speaking. The gentle voice, if it
isn't Elder brother Fang ChenLe, who else can it be?

"Little brother, you let me have a hard time looking for you."

You XiaoMo laughs *hei hei*, "Elder brother, do you need

something?"

Fang ChenLe doesn't take it to heart, simply pulling up a chair and

515
sitting down. Looking at You XiaoMo sheepishly, he gets straight to
the point, "Little brother, Elder brother has wronged you. I didn't
expect that when Master called for you yesterday, it is actually with
that kind of intention ....... "

"Wait wait. Elder brother."

You XiaoMo quickly stops him from blaming himself, saying

somewhat helplessly, "I know that Elder brother and Second brother
had nothing to do with it. I also don't blame the both of you. I know
that Master said that for your benefit. What Master said is right, it's
more beneficial for both of you to go than me."

"But, this way it is very unfair for you isn't it?"

Fang ChenLe says in a deep voice.

Although Yun Shui peak makes him very excited, he isn't the type
that would step on his younger brother's back to get ahead. If it
really has to be like that, he would rather refuse the opportunity. He
also believes that ZiLin is of the same opinion as him.

You XiaoMo sees the slight change in his expression and knows that
Elder brother is really angry. Having an Elder brother that really
thinks about him, he feels that he is very lucky. So he feels that if the
opportunity really goes to Elder brother, he definitely wouldn't be
upset.

"Elder brother, I heard that it is very hard for mages to go past level
four. You and Second brother have stayed as level four mages for a
few years. If you get to go to Yun Shui peak, the chance of a
breakthrough would be higher right? I really want to see the both of
you become more powerful. Then Heaven peak will no longer be

516
able to look down on us right?

You XiaoMo feels that he is somewhat clumsy with words, unable to

come up with strong powerful words to convince Elder brother. So
he can only use simple words to convey his thoughts.

"Little brother, you're too simpleminded."

Fang ChenLe sighs.

"What do you mean?"

You XiaoMo asks in surprise.

"Did you consider that the one Uncle Ye wants is actually you and
not me and Second brother? This matter isn't as easy as you letting
us have the opportunity and so be it. If Uncle Ye doesn't agree, do
you think me and your Second brother will get to go?"

Fang ChenLe shakes his head, clearly showing that he doesn't know.

"Ah?"

You XiaoMo is stunned. He really didn't think about this, "But from
what Master said ....... "

Fang ChenLe really wants to pry open his head and take a look at
what's inside, "You think that whatever Master says is law? If it really
is like that, Master, that old man, would have found a way a long
time ago to get me and Second brother sent into Yun Shui peak. That
Uncle Ye. Don't be fooled by his outer amiable appearance. The fact
is, the things that he doesn't want to do, even the Grand Master
won't be able to force him to do."

517
"Then what is it that Master wants?"

You XiaoMo asks stupidly. He already can't cope with it.

Speaking of Master, Fang ChenLe shows some helplessness, "Most

probably Master feels that since you managed to get Uncle Ye to like
you, if you were to bring it up, it would have more chance of success
ba!"

You XiaoMo is speechless .......

He didn't expect that Master being someone so shrewd, would

actually think this way.

Looks like he really values Elder brother and Second brother. If not,
he wouldn't have come up with his kind of method. If he himself has
a Master that treats him like that ....... ai ya, what an unrealistic way
of thinking!

"Elder brother, no matter how it is, when I go see Uncle Ye, I will still
bring it up."

You XiaoMo says firmly.

Fang ChenLe sees his determined face, and having more or less an
understanding of his character, he knows that it's no use persuading
him. He can only say helplessly, "Little brother, I know you are doing
this for Elder brother but you must still act within your means. You
must absolutely not make Uncle Ye angry. Oh right, your Second
brother asked me to tell you something."

"What is it?"

518
You XiaoMo asks curiously.

Fang ChenLe is all smiles, "He says for you to not mind other people's
business."

You XiaoMo grins. This Second brother is really an awkward person.

A softie with a gruff exterior!

You XiaoMo leaves the canteen together with Fang ChenLe.

Everyone in the canteen witnessed it. Quite a few people look at
each other in dismay. They thought that there would be big rift in the
relationship between You XiaoMo and Elder brother. Looks like there
is a big discrepancy between the reality and their imagination. And
so, the speculation collapses of its own.

Three days later, Ling Xiao comes to look for You XiaoMo.

Before, Uncle Ye gave You XiaoMo some time to think it over, up to

three days.

This time, the reason why Ling Xiao comes to see him, is because of
this matter. Because Uncle Ye asked him to bring You XiaoMo back to
see him three days later. But even if he didn't say so, Ling Xiao would
still do it.

The matter regarding Kong Wen summoning him, Ling Xiao knows
about it but definitely doesn't plan on bringing it up.

Just like what Fang ChenLe said, if Uncle Ye is someone so easy to

convince, all these years, he would have been surrounded with
people a long time ago. Why would he wait until now? Those
intentions are nothing but wishing the heavens would open. Even if

519
You XiaoMo agrees, one still needs to get past Uncle Ye. So he isn't
worried at all.

Ling Xiao doesn't ask. You XiaoMo doesn't believe that he hasn't
heard the rumors. Although he is a little surprised, he still heaves a
sigh of relief. Otherwise, if he really has to tell him what he is
thinking, he would definitely call him stupid. Why would he go
looking for insults?!

On the way, You XiaoMo tells Ling Xiao the things he wants to do the
next time he goes down the mountain. This time, there are a lot of
things he wants to buy. Other than the building materials for the
small hut, he wants to see if he can buy level four to level six magic
herbs.

But this time he needs a large sum of money. So he needs to arrange

the auction before considering these things. But he doesn't know if
HePing town has an auction house. Ling Xiao should know better
than him.

"We will soon arrive at Yun Shui peak. Wait until we return. I'll tell
you then."

Ling Xiao deliberately raises his brows.

"Alright ba."

You XiaoMo looks at the soon approaching Yun Shui peak, starting to
feel hesitant.

Ling Xiao sees his nervous expression from the corner of his eye and
snorts *chi*, "Later, you must be cautious in speech and conduct.
Your Uncle Ye is not someone with a good temper. If you were to

520
make him angry, *ze ze ze*!"

You XiaoMo -_-|| . Already at the door and he still wants to scare
him. Can't he see that he is already so nervous?

Notes:
say three say four - make irresponsible remarks
ze ze ze - click tongue

521
Chapter 89 - "Successful pitch"

Just like the last time, the one that comes to receive them is the child
with the combed back hair.

The boy's body emits a noble air that forbids others from getting
close. You XiaoMo is almost certain of his status. He should be one of
the legendary guards of Yun Shui peak. It's just that this Elder's outer
appearance is seriously different from the image he conjured up in
his mind.

After taking them outside the estate, the boy once again disappears
soundlessly.

You XiaoMo is already used to seeing strange things so he just walks

inside with Ling Xiao, going according to the path they used the last
time. Right in front of the large magic herb field is a small hut. At this
moment, Ling Xiao who is walking in front stops suddenly. You
XiaoMo doesn't notice and bumps his head right into his back.
Rubbing his hurting nose, he is just about to open his mouth when
Ling Xiao suddenly covers his mouth.

You XiaoMo raises his head and uses his eyes to ask, "What is it?"

"There's someone."

Ling Xiao mouths those words, not caring if You XiaoMo understands.
He pricks up his ears listening to the movements in the small hut.

You XiaoMo looks over at the wooden hut that is still over thirty
meters away. His lips twitch as he pouts.

522
After a while, Ling Xiao removes his hand from You XiaoMo's mouth
and signals for him to continue walking.

You XiaoMo receives the message. Knowing that they can start
talking, he quickly asks, "What happened just now? Don't tell me
there was someone else in the wooden hut besides Uncle Ye? But no
one came out ah?"

"That person has left. It's not strange that you didn't see him."

Ling Xiao doesn't hide it from him, continuing, "They were talking
about you. That person was sent by Tang Fan. Tang Fan heard that Ye
Han wanted to accept you as an apprentice so he sent someone to
convince him not to take you."

"Why?"

You XiaoMo asks, a little upset.

Why is it that everyone doesn't want him to be Uncle Ye's

apprentice? Although he knows in his heart, but hearing it from the
mouth of others, he still feels very wronged.

"This you still have to ask?"

Ling Xiao glances at him and continues lightly, "Ye Han is someone
that everyone in TianXin sect wants to get on their side. Even Tang
Fan is no exception. The only peak that is closely linked to Tang Fan is
Heaven peak. Although he is the Grand Master of TianXin sect, he
still wishes for the person by Ye Han's side to be someone from
Heaven peak. Furthermore, you're from Earth peak, for him to agree,
that would be strange."

523
You XiaoMo pouts exaggeratedly, "Clearly I'm also a disciple of
TianXin sect ....... "

Ling Xiao sneers coldly and says lightly, "Tang Fan isn't as fair and
impartial as you imagine. He is only an ordinary person, with selfish
motives and desires. On top of that, he has been on top for a long
time. No matter how noble and lofty, one would still be reduced to
some small selfish man. Furthermore, Tang Fan was never a saint.
Wait until you've seen it a few more times, you'll slowly get used to
it."

You XiaoMo pouts. He has absolutely no desire to get used to it. This
world is too treacherous. He wants to go back to Earth!

"Did you hear what that person said to Uncle Ye?"

You XiaoMo asks.

Hearing these words, Ling Xiao can't help hooking his arm over You
XiaoMo's shoulder, one finger tilting his jaw upwards, saying
frivolously, "Of course. Although he put up a barrier outside, the
level is nothing difficult for me. You want to know?"

You XiaoMo pouts and pouts. Why does he feel like he is being
molested? It must be that he got up the wrong way from the bed this
morning. Otherwise, why would he have this absurd misconception?

Ling Xiao sees that he doesn't respond but still doesn't feel put out,
"Actually you can guess without me having to tell you. That person
used the excuse that you only entered TianXin sect for less than two
months so you don't have a service record. He wants Ye Han to
forget about taking you in as an apprentice and let Tang YunQi take

524
your place. But Ye Shan is also not someone that is easy to deal
with. He insisted that other than you, no one else would do. That
person received orders from Tang Fan so of course he wouldn't ease
up. In the end, he said that your background is dubious and that you
may be a spy. They spoke until they heard your footsteps, then that
person left. That's pretty much it."

You XiaoMo can't help but pout three times over. Why does it seem
like those last words is putting the blame on him? He is only a puny
little mage. There's no need to add those amazing and fearsome
things to his name.

"Come in ba."

Ye Han's voice comes from the hut.

Only then does You XiaoMo realize that he has unconsciously walked
right up to the hut so he just pushes the door and walks in with Ling
Xiao.

Ye Han stands in front of a rack of magic herbs, with his back facing
them, as if he is putting the magic herbs in order. Hearing the door
open, he turns around. His face is calm, just like how he appeared
three days ago. As if he is not the least big angry with what just
happened half a minute ago.

"So what do you think about it?"

Ye Han doesn't like to talk in a roundabout way, getting straight to

the point after sitting down.

You XiaoMo glances at Ling Xiao who gives him a slight smile. He
quickly shifts his gaze and hesitates for a bit before saying, "Uncle Ye,

525
I am very happy that you appreciate a nobody like me but I have
been granted your undeserved kindness. I think I'm not fit for this
position. So, I think that it should be given to someone that needs it
more than me.

Hearing these words, Ye Han isn't surprised. He only looks at him for
a while before sighing softly, "Looks like you've already heard about
it. Three days ago, I was indeed too rash. I didn't consider how this
matter would cause problems for you."

"It's not like that Uncle Ye."

You XiaoMo hears those words bearing responsibility and is alarmed,

"I never felt that this matter is troublesome, it's just that, it's just
that ....... "

After racking his brains, You XiaoMo still can't figure out what he
should say so he can only look at Ling Xiao at his side.

Ling Xiao sees his imploring gaze and is very happy that he
immediately thinks of him. As for the possibility that it is because
there are only the three of them here, so You XiaoMo has no other
choice, Ling Xiao chooses to single-mindedly ignore that fact
altogether.

"Uncle Ye, this matter, I trust you know more about it than the both
of us. Your position is very unique. The person by your side, be it
disciple or apprentice, they must be proven to be a hundred percent
devoted to TianXin sect. But You XiaoMo is different. He still hasn't
inherited the canons of TianXin sect, making it obvious that TianXin
sect does not trust him. For this type of disciple to be able to come in
and out of Yun Shui peak, it's not just the Grand Master that won't
agree, even those old fogies up there would probably not agree."

526
Yun Shui peak is like the heart of TianXin sect. Touch one hair and it
would affect the whole body.

"Yes ah, Uncle Ye, if you really need an apprentice, my Elder brother
and Second brother can do. They are both level four mages. Their
experience is richer than mine, definitely will do a better job than
me. Really. If you don't believe, you can test them."

You XiaoMo quickly chimes in. He now understands Ling Xiao's

analysis. Truthfully, it would be extremely difficult for him to walk
this road of an apprentice. Rather than charging ahead obstinately,
wouldn't it be better for him to give this opportunity to Elder brother
and Second brother? This way, the opportunity wouldn't be wasted.

Ye Han doesn't know whether to laugh or cry. It's obviously such a

serious topic but hearing him speak this way he can't maintain the
seriousness. He actually feels that this little disciple is worried that
he would compromise thus losing out on this good opportunity so he
hurriedly pitched his Big brothers.

Ling Xiao hears him still constantly thinking about his Elder brother
and is just about to flip out when he suddenly gets a flash of
inspiration. He then gives a push before Ye Han starts to speak.

"Uncle Ye, what Little brother says is right. I have met those two
brothers. Their characters are indeed pretty good when compared to
others. Elder brother Fang ChenLe is a gentle and amiable person
that is very approachable. His popularity is also quite high. Second
brother Fu ZiLin although a little cold, he is very serious when it
comes to doing things. If you were to accept the both of them, I can
guarantee that you won't regret it."

527
Hearing these words, You XiaoMo stares wide-eyed in surprise at
Ling Xiao.

It's hard to believe that Ling Xiao would speak on behalf of his Big
brothers. He somehow remembers that Ling Xiao doesn't seem to
like Elder brother very much. Furthermore, his understanding of
those two is even deeper than his!

The ones surprised is not just You XiaoMo. There's also Ye Han.

But Ye Han is not like You XiaoMo, showing his inner thoughts on his
face. He is only shocked in his heart.

Ling Xiao is actually recommending someone, and people from Earth

peak on top of that. If Tang Fan finds out, he would most probably be
angered to death by this disciple. But it must be said that this Ling
Xiao is really more to his liking. If Tang Fan really gets angered, then
wouldn't that be good!

"Uncle Ye, what do you think?"

You XiaoMo asks cautiously.

Ye Han almost can't keep a straight face. This is the first time a junior
has dared to speak to him like that. On top of that, asking him what
is his decision. It can't be that that one short moment is all the time
he is given to consider?

Although the impression Ye Han has of the both of them is not bad,
he can't decide on such a big thing in such a short time. If not, certain
people would definitely get anxious.

I can't give you an answer on this matter right now. How about this

528
ba. Find a time for them to come by and I will test them personally. If
they can impress me, I will accept them as apprentices."

Ye Han says.

"Then I'm very grateful. I will let them know."

You XiaoMo says immediately, his face showing both happiness and
surprise.

Ye Han shakes his head. He has not seen this type of pure happiness
for the sake of his brothers getting an opportunity, actually beaming
with happiness from the inside, for a long time now. It's a pity .......
it's a pity that he already has a Master. If not, taking him as a disciple
is probably not a bad decision. Thinking of this, Ye Han is inwardly
shocked. He has not thought about taking a disciple for a very long
time. And now, this young man that he has only met twice can make
him think this way, it's really very shocking!

The one that doesn't know that he just missed out on a gigantic
opportunity, You XiaoMo, is currently pulling Ling Xiao along down
the mountain, full of excitement, seeming as if he urgently wants to
share the good news with his Big brothers.

Notes:
lamp that doesn't burn much oil - someone that is easy to deal with
open door see mountain - get straight to the point

529
Chapter 90 - One more kiss

Ling Xiao can no longer stand You XiaoMo's eager manner, so he

takes him straight back to the room.

You XiaoMo doesn't know why he wants to stop him from telling
Elder brother the good news. He sits angrily on the chair all in a huff
looking at him.

Ling Xiao closes the door and walks back with his arms crossed and
looks at him. He watches, with a hidden glint in his eyes, those eyes
that are shooting flames. He continues watching as those flames get
smaller and smaller, finally going out. Only then does he smile, "Little
brother, are you in a hurry to see your Elder brother?"

You XiaoMo immediately shakes his head, "No."

Yes also must say no!

"Then why were you running so fast?"

Ling Xiao smiles as he asks.

"That, of course is so I can come back to my own room. Isn't there a

saying that goes, 'Gold houses and silver houses are not as good as
one own's doghouse'?"

You XiaoMo stammers, praying that he can deceive him this way.

Of course Ling Xiao is not going to admit that there is some sense in
those words. He pulls a chair and sits by his side.

530
You XiaoMo immediately picks up the teapot and diligently pours a
cup of water for him, "Elder brother Ling, drink a cup of water first
before speaking."

Ling Xiao gives him face, taking a sip after taking the cup.

You XiaoMo takes advantage of this time to ask, "Elder brother Ling,
your not allowing me to tell Elder brother and Second brother the
good news, is it because there is something wrong?"

Ling Xiao's lips slowly curve upwards. Learning fast are we? He then
says calmly, "It's no big deal. It's just that there is someone more
anxious than you. Even if you don't go, in a bit, someone will come
over to find you."

Someone is referring to a certain person. You XiaoMo is not so stupid

that he wouldn't know this little bit. Other than his Master, there
probably isn't a second choice.

After calming down, You XiaoMo no longer feels that impetus. Just
like Ling Xiao said, Elder brother and Second brother will find out
sooner or later. There's just no need for him to be worried. Thinking
like this, he remembers that he himself has a lot of questions he
wants to ask. Taking advantage of Ling Xiao's presence, he simply
relates the whole process of his Heavenly Soul Scroll breakthrough.

Ling Xiao listens to him and then ponders for a bit, "Mages are not
the same as martial artists. Mages train the soul force. In order to
have a breakthrough, not only does the capacity have to accumulate,
a key moment is also needed. But this key moment is not something
that would happen to everyone. So, it's only when one finds the right
way, that there would be the opportunity to have a breakthrough."

531
"What about the way?"

You XiaoMo asks.

"Putting pressure on your soul force is one of the ways. Like when
you use up your soul force when refining magic pills. This is also a
type of pressure placed on your soul force. But because you usually
replenish it with magic water just in time, so this phenomenon is not
clearly reflected on your body. But with the increase of your soul
force, the result will get more and more obvious. As for why you
didn't have a breakthrough when you didn't drink magic water
before, it's most probably because you haven't reached the critical
point required for a breakthrough."

Actually Ling Xiao is not speaking from his own knowledge. He is

speaking while raiding Lin Xiao's memory.

The presence of a Junior sister that likes him so she tells him all she
knows is a good thing. Although Lin Xiao is not a mage, but clearly
because of ambition, he frequently asks Tang YunQi about matters
regarding mages, making him very knowledgeable on these matters.

"So that's how it is!"

You XiaoMo says somewhat pensively.

Ling Xiao takes advantage of his inattentiveness and strokes his

cheeks. The two cheeks are unimaginably soft and tender. He
breathes out softly and says, "Since you already broke through the
first level of Heavenly Soul Scroll, you should now be able to refine
level two magic pills."

532
"I also think so."

You XiaoMo distractedly grips his hand. There's no need to say how
excited he feels inside. He thought he would need two to three more
months before breaking through to a level two mage. And the
heavens suddenly gave him such a huge pleasant surprise. Now he
has over three months of time, so the assessment will definitely not
be a problem.

Ling Xiao looks at his cheeks and lips that have become slightly red
from excitement. He can't help narrowing his eyes, and while You
XiaoMo is looking at him in surprise, he leans over and licks him.
Feeling that it is not enough, he takes the opportunity to lick him
again. Then again and again.

A certain excited someone already turned into stone .......

Ling Xiao is also beyond excited. Too sweet. Why does it seem that it
has been smeared with honey? So sweet that he is addicted.
Completely not tired of it. In the end, he actually sticks his tongue
between those partially closed lips, hooking up with the stiff tongue.
Sucking over and over, eating with high spirits. Totally unwilling to let
go. Only when he feels that You XiaoMo is out of breath, does he
reluctantly let go.

You XiaoMo already came back to his senses when his tongue
entered his mouth. But the reality is, this little virgin has no way of
withstanding Ling Xiao's sucking technique. In a flash, his whole body
was sucked powerless. There's no need to even talk about resisting.

When Ling Xiao lets go of his mouth, he takes a few deep breaths but
is still unable to recover. His face is as red as fully ripe persimmons.
Smoke is even rising from the top of his head. He flops weakly in Ling

533
Xiao's arms.

Ling Xiao is afraid that he can't breathe. He strokes his back helping
him to breathe smoothly, "Is it getting a little better?"

You XiaoMo shivers. He uses one of his hands to grip his shoulder,
helping him to climb up. He glares at him with flames shooting out of
both eyes, "Why would you kiss me on the lips?"

Ling Xiao smiles as he licks the corner of his mouth. Then he

stretches out his finger and pokes his lips saying regretfully, "Because
it is delicious. I still haven't asked you ne. Is there honey on your lips?
They are so sweet that I can't bear to let go."

You XiaoMo sees his manner that seems to want to give him another
kiss and quickly covers his mouth. But when he hears his last words,
he unconsciously sticks out his tongue and gives it a lick. Bloody hell,
it's actually all covered in saliva .......

You XiaoMo hastily wipes off the saliva on his lips. His lips quiver
slightly when he speaks, "My lips are not the least bit sweet. Maybe
it's your own lips that are sweet."

Worried that he would use this excuse to kiss him again, You XiaoMo
quickly places the cause back on Ling Xiao's own body.

Ling Xiao looks at him, raising the corner his lips devilishly, "My lips
are sweet? Why is it that I can't tell? How about you try and see if
they are sweet, help me confirm it?"

Although it sounds like he is asking, his actions are not the least bit
hesitant. He immediately hugs You XiaoMo who is trying to escape,
and kisses him. This time, it is more intense than the last time

534
because there is now a resisting tongue. But there is also added
interest as the more You XiaoMo wants to hide, the more he wants
to entangle them.

As if enlightened, You XiaoMo no longer resists and instead holds his

breath. If you can do it, go ahead and suck me dead!

More or less aware of his plan, Ling Xiao finally lets go of his lips. Still
unsatisfied, he licks his lips. It's really too bad. He still wanted to kiss
a little longer.

You XiaoMo quivers in his arms wanting to climb out .......

Ling Xiao holds him down with his large hand, shocking him. Seeing
that You XiaoMo is not content, he quickly hugs him tightly around
the waist, saying, "Ok, let's talk about serious matters. Don't move or
I'll execute you on the spot."

You XiaoMo finally stays completely still. But his whole face is black,
bastard, what do you mean execute on the spot?

He is man. He really is a man!

"You you you ....... you say it. What do you mean serious business?"

You XiaoMo is quivering as he speaks.

"Regarding the auction house. HePing town only has a small-time

auction house. If you really want to auction off magic pills and
spiritual liquid, you can't do it in HePing town. You have to find a
slightly larger town. Those auction houses will be more regulated.
Also there won't be cheating and funny business. On top of that, the
price will be higher."

535
Ling Xiao speaks with a satisfied expression.

"Really? Then which town is good? I don't know the way."

You XiaoMo is finally excited. In a flash he completely forgets about

how he was messed around with just a moment ago.

"Of course it's somewhere further. But to go to that town and come
back, and adding the auction time on top of that, it won't be done in
a day. With your situation right now, you can only leave for one day
ba?"

Ling Xiao is not certain but it seems they can't go after all.

"Then how?"

You XiaoMo thinks about how he still has two opportunities to go

down the mountain this month. But each time he is only allowed one
day. This is a rule that can't be moved even if struck by thunder.
Unless .......

"After passing the assessment in three months, as long as you get

through it, after that, you can go down the mountain for as long as
you want."

Ling Xiao says with a serious expression.

You XiaoMo can't help feeling a little deflated. Looks like that is the
only way!

"That's right, there is something else I have to warn you about."

536
Ling Xiao says suddenly. When You XiaoMo looks over, he continues,
"The auction house in the big town is of a higher grade than the ones
in small towns like HePing town. The information you got before
regarding auctioning magic pills is probably not relevant. Level one
magic pills, no matter how high the grade, is unlikely to be accepted
in those auction houses."

"Then wouldn't that just leave the spiritual liquid? So much trouble,
wouldn't it be better to just go to HePing town?"

You XiaoMo frowns.

Ling Xiao hugs him tight as he says, "It's not troublesome. The magic
pills can't be auctioned but they can still be sold to the medicine
shops in town. Furthermore, didn't you want to find level four to
level six magic herb seeds? You can go ask about it in town."

"That's right oh."

Only then does You XiaoMo remember that there is still that matter.

Although HePing town has level four and above magic herb seeds,
it's not much. Furthermore the quality of the seeds is not very good.
Some are even dried up because they have been stored for a long
time.

Level four to level six magic herbs require a relatively longer time to
grow. On top of that, HePing town is a small town so very few mages
would go there to buy mid-level magic herb seeds. So the magic herb
seeds in the Orchid Pavilion, other than those from level one to level
three, the rest have been there for a very long time.

"So for now you should concentrate on preparing for the test in

537
three months. Leave the arrangements for the auction to me. When
you pass the test, I will bring you there."

Ling Xiao uses his fingers to scratch both sides of You XiaoMo's
cheeks, somewhat unwilling to let go. He cherishes the time he spent
with You XiaoMo at the Central lineage more and more. Living
together that time was so good. He could make a move whenever he
wanted to.

"Alright!"

You XiaoMo suddenly feels a lot more relaxed.

"Oh, now that we've finished talking about serious business, how
about we go for one more round?"

Ling Xiao once again shows his indecent look, hooking up You
XiaoMo's chin, wanting to plant a kiss.

You XiaoMo raises his hand and gives him a slap .......

538
Chapter 91 - Level two magic pills
After Ling Xiao leaves, just like he said, Kong Wen sends someone
over not long after to ask him to go over.

Because You XiaoMo prepared himself mentally, he is ready. He tells

Master that Uncle Ye already agreed to test out Elder brother and
Second brother and take them as apprentices if they pass the test.

Two at one go. And they are his own disciples that he is most proud
of. There is no need to mention how delighted Kong Wen is in his
heart. So he promises to grant You XiaoMo one request if Fang
ChenLe and Fu ZiLin pass Uncle Ye's test.

You XiaoMo curses endlessly in his heart but on the outside he

appears deeply grateful. He had already known long ago that Master
wouldn't do something that would cost him, giving him a empty
check while making it seem as if it is the real thing. Still he must force
out an extremely happy expression. Of course it's not possible that
he doesn't feel wronged.

But because of this, he now knows the true face of his Master.
Maybe, in his heart, other than Elder brother and Second brother,
the other disciples are just there to make them shine in comparison.
If not, why has he never seen him take great pains for the other
disciples?

You XiaoMo still remembers that ever since he entered the sect until
now, Master never led him by the hand and taught him anything. He
feels that he isn't a person that holds grudges but he admits that he
is still a teeny bit petty. If it isn't because the people concerned are
Elder brother and Second brother, that little bit of pettiness would

539
definitely not allow him to be so magnanimous.

But the reason why he can give way so completely is also because it
also benefits him. Right now, his days are very free and relaxed. He
does what he wants. It wouldn't be the same in Yun Shui peak. Over
there, there are ten powerful Elders on guard. Under their watchful
eyes, everything he does will be under their surveillance. Would he
dare to refine magic pills? Would he dare to enter the dimension?

For others, it is a hundred advantages and not a single disadvantage,

leading to a bright future. But for him, going to Yun Shui peak means
there is a high probability that his secret will be exposed.

Comparing these things, he would rather let go of this opportunity,

so he can't agree to go there and be Uncle Ye's apprentice. This is the
real reason for his refusal. The rest is just like pushing a boat along
with the current.

After thinking it through, You XiaoMo is no longer hung up over Kong

Wen's favoritism. Right now, he can't wait to try and see if he can
refine level two magic pills. If he can, the next time he goes down the
mountain, he can sell level two magic pills to earn money.

And so, less than two days after the last time, You XiaoMo goes into
seclusion once again.

Not long after he entered into seclusion, Fang ChenLe comes to find
him. He already learned of that matter so he wants to thank him.
Unexpectedly, he learns from the disciple next door that You XiaoMo
is in seclusion again, this time, he supposedly won't come out for ten
days to half a month.

Fang ChenLe can't help but pout in great disappointment. This

540
seclusion maniac. Even more maniacal than ZiLin. Left with no
choice, he can only let that disciple tell You XiaoMo that he came to
visit when You XiaoMo comes out from seclusion.

At the same time, the one in seclusion, You XiaoMo doesn't

immediately start to refine magic pills.

After locking the door securely, he appears in the dimension. After a

few days, the level two magic pills in the dimension are already
mature. Ten types of magic herbs appear to be thriving. In order to
differentiate the ten types of magic herbs, You XiaoMo purposely
divided them into ten magic herb fields. Just like the fields of
peasants, each field has one type of magic herb. One hundred stalks
of each type. The magic herbs that he uses more, he sprinkles them
with relatively more magic water. A glorious profusion of colors, an
extremely magnificent sight.

You XiaoMo takes a good look at everything. He finds that the way
the magic herbs are growing is quite alright. The magic herbs are
bursting with spiritual power and energy. It's clear that there are
sufficient nutrients, nothing to do with the way they are grown. But a
few days ago, he observed the magic herbs that Uncle Ye grew in Yun
Shui peak. He discovered that over there the magic herb fields are
distributed in circular formations of approximately the same size.

For example, in one magic herb field, there are rings from the middle
spreading outwards in a circular shape up to eight meters in
diameter. With this type of arrangement, the magic herbs close to
the middle grow better. Almost all the magic herb fields are planted
that way. Although he doesn't know how this benefits the magic
herbs, You XiaoMo feels that it has something to do with the
concentration of the spiritual energy inside the barrier of Yun Shui
peak, giving rise to such an effect. After making the comparison, You

541
XiaoMo starts to dig up magic herbs.

Usually it takes six to eight hours to clear a huge magic herb field.
But ever since his soul force broke through level one, his ability to
use the soul force also increased. This time, he only used one hour to
clear all the level two magic herbs, completely filling up the shelves
marked for level two magic herbs. The shelves he bought for this
purpose are now all completely used up.

After picking out three types of level two magic herbs used to refine
a certain magic pill, You XiaoMo leaves the dimension leisurely.

On the table is the second cauldron he got from Uncle Zhao.

Although it is of good quality, it can only accept the soul force of a
level two mage. If he wants to refine level three magic pills, he would
have to buy a better one.

You XiaoMo took a few types of magic herbs and placed them on the
table. Then he chooses three stalks. Today, he wants to refine a level
two magic pill called Bitter magic pill. It is made up of three magic
herbs - bitter ginseng, slender stalk fragrant herb, and silkweed.

Bitter ginseng looks about the same as regular ginseng but the flavor
of bitter ginseng is especially bitter. So, a lot of people are unable to
withstand the taste of bitter ginseng. Even if it is turned into a magic
pill, the bitter taste is not the least bit reduced. So slender stalk
fragrant herb has to be added.

Slender stalk fragrant herb is just like its name. The flower stem gives
out a very strong fragrance. The flower stem also has a sweet taste
that can neutralize the flavor of the bitter ginseng, enabling the
medicinal qualities to come into play.

542
Bitter magic pill is used to solidify the state of martial artists after a
breakthrough. But it is only effective for relatively low level martial
artists. As for higher level martial artists, they have to take other high
level magic pills.

After throwing the three stalks of magic herbs into the cauldron, You
XiaoMo starts to manipulate his soul force into the cauldron to start
the first round of distillation.

Level two magic herbs contain twice the energy of level one magic
herbs. Just melting them takes twice the amount of time needed for
level one magic herbs. Then it's time to distill. Because level two
magic herbs is higher than level one magic herbs, the distillation
difficulty is greater than for level one magic herbs. On top of that,
the magic herbs is from his dimension, of high quality, so it's even
more difficult to distill.

After fully concentrating and carrying out one round of distillation,

You XiaoMo can't remove any more impurities. Of course, not able to
remove any more does not mean there are no more impurities in the
magic herbs. It just means he is not strong enough to take it further.

You XiaoMo does not feel discouraged. This situation is just like
when he was refining level one magic pills. As long as he goes slow
and takes his time, there will come the day when he can do better.
Then he simply goes on to the final step, blending.

Blending goes relatively smoothly. It's not long before a level two
magic pill comes out fresh from the oven. Furthermore, it's a top
grade magic pill.

You XiaoMo smiles at his own achievement. He takes it and puts it

into a bottle and starts on the second magic pill .......

543
After going into seclusion, You XiaoMo seems to be cut off from the
outside world. He doesn't know that after he went into seclusion,
something big happened in Earth peak. Ye Han made an exception
and accepted Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin as apprentices. Furthermore,
it's the both of them together.

This matter shocked the whole of TianXin sect. In the end, Tang Fan
couldn't take it any longer and decided to go talk it over with Ye Han.

What Tang Fan wants is, since Ye Han is planning on taking on

apprentices, his daughter is also a mage, so he should also take her
in. But Ye Han says that he already has enough people so he refuses
to accept Tang YunQi.

Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin are not the same as You XiaoMo. They
have already entered TianXin sect for many years and established a
few connections in the mage division. Most importantly, the two of
them have already received the alchemical techniques meaning they
are core disciples. Tang Fan can't use the excuse he used against You
XiaoMo to stop Ye Han from receiving them as apprentices. But
there's no way he would happily sit back and let Earth peak shine
and take the upper hand.

In the end, Ye Han has no choice but to say that if Tang YunQi can
pass the test, he will accept her as an apprentice. But the dramatic
thing is that not only did Tang YunQi not pass the test, she also
caused a big fuss.

Tang YunQi is a very arrogant person, always looking down at people

of lower status than her. But what Ye Han needs is someone that is
careful and patient. She obviously lacks these qualities. She fails to
pass even the first hurdle and thus is thrown out after three strikes.

544
Although Fang ChenLe and Fu ZiLin are very different, they share one
characteristic. That's being careful and patient, especially when it
comes to handling magic herbs. They are both very attentive.

Although Fu ZiLin appears to hate being a mage, his actions are very
different from his appearance. It gives off a mouth says yes but heart
says no kind of feeling. Just like You XiaoMo said, Fu ZiLin is a very
awkward person. Ye Han definitely does not hate this kind of person.

So like this, Tang Fan has nothing left to say. His own daughter fails
to live up to expectations so who can he blame? People already gave
her the chance. If you don't treasure the chance, it is your own fault.
It can't be blamed on others.

But Tang YunQi is not happy. She feels that Ye Han purposely made it
difficult for her, so she caused a fuss. Every two to three days, she
and her gang of footmen gathered outside the barrier of Yun Shui
peak and yell loudly that Ye Han is biased, unfair, and so on.

Yun Shui peak is protected by a barrier. Even if Tang YunQi shouts

louder, Ye Han wouldn't be able to hear it.

But unluckily, that boy that came down the mountain twice to
receive Ling Xiao and You XiaoMo suddenly appeared outside the
barrier. Tang YunQi just happened to see him and used the status of
Ye Han's assistant to ask him to lead the way. The boy ignores her so
Tang YunQi flares up and threatens him. According to witnesses, the
boy then gives her a tight slap. Junior sister Tang's pretty face
immediately swells up into a pig's head. After that, she no longer
dares to go out and so the whole TianXin sect becomes peaceful
again.

545
After Tang Fan found out about this he confined Tang YunQi for one
month. After that, he personally went to Yun Shui peak to apologize
and admit fault to that boy. Only then does everyone find out that
the boy is actually one of the topmost Elders of TianXin sect.

Tang YunQi also for some reason whether it is too afraid or too
ashamed to show her face, she is not seen again for a few months
after that.

The one that gets the most peace and quiet is none other than Ling
Xiao. Finally he no longer has to deal with that princess that comes to
see him everyday. If not, he is really worried that some day he
wouldn't be able to take it any longer, causing him to wring her neck.

Notes:
pushing a boat along with the current - swim with the current
slender stalk fragrant herb - Lysimachia capillipes Hemsl
bitter ginseng - Sophora flavescens

546
Chapter 92 - Awkward Feelings

Time rushes by like flowing water .......

The one who was supposed to be in seclusion for ten days to half a
month, You XiaoMo, under the hopeful watch of certain people,
finally comes out.

One must know that during these three months, Fang ChenLe came
to his room off and on, and moan and groan for a bit outside his
door. The few disciples next door will rush out at that time to come
talk to him.

Fu ZiLin also came around. This Second brother is more brusque and
direct. He goes right up to You XiaoMo's door, glares at it, lets out a
burst of cold air and then leaves. It is said that the neighboring
disciples stayed inside the whole day then.

Ling Xiao also came over but he only came one time .......

"Little brother, if all the disciples of TianXin sect are like you, TianXin
sect wouldn't need to worry about becoming stronger ya!"

Ling Xiao smiles as he hugs the collapsing You XiaoMo, really warm
and gentle like jade.

You XiaoMo looks jumpy, looking guiltily to the door that had been
kicked open. Because a certain someone used too much force, one of
the doors was sent flying, now lying pitifully all alone on the floor.

That's right, Ling Xiao's 'one time' refers to this one time.

547
This fellow is even more direct than Fu ZiLin, lifting up his foot and
kicking down the door that had been closed tightly for three months.
*Peng* rings out loudly, frightening the neighbors. But no one dares
to come out. Each visitor freakier than the other, it would be strange
if they dared to come out.

After Ling Xiao barged in, he saw You XiaoMo collapsing backwards,
making him jump in fright. He ran over to catch him and found out
that it's because he used up his soul force. Because he didn't manage
to drink magic water in time, he lost the strength to remain standing.

Ling Xiao is so angry that his teeth start to itch, dying to take a bite of
his face.

"This time, this time it is not intentional. Actually ....... I also didn't
think it would be so long ....... "

You XiaoMo explains somewhat lacking in confidence.

"Not intentional?"

Ling Xiao raises his brows, "When was it ever intentional?"

"I ....... "

You XiaoMo wants to disagree, this is the only time it was accidental
ok? But looking at Ling Xiao's expression, he feels that it is better not
to say it. If he makes him angry, that would give Ling Xiao another
hold on him, so he changes the topic.

"How come you're here? Have you sorted out the things regarding
the auction?"

548
Speaking about matters regarding the auction, his eyes also light up.

The corner of Ling Xiao's eye twitches. He narrows his eyes darkly,
"You XiaoMo, could have forgotten about the assessment in a few
days time?"

You XiaoMo's face stiffens. He really did forget about it!

With one look at his face, Ling Xiao knows that he guessed correctly.
He snorts and raises his chin saying, "If I didn't kick down your door
in time, you most probably would continue on cluelessly for one or
two months. Tell me, how are you going to thank me?"

You XiaoMo wants to pound on the ground. He tried to be on guard

over here and over there but now he still owes him a favor. But
kicking down other people's door yet speaking so boldly with
justification, this is the first he comes across someone like this.

In the end, You XiaoMo promises to fulfill a few conditions before

Ling Xiao lets him go.

Knowing that he probably has no clue about what happened outside

these three months, Ling Xiao tells him the major things that
happened. The matter regarding Tang YunQi happened three months
ago. Although very few people talk about it these days, Ling Xiao still
tells him the gist of it.

After listening to it all, You XiaoMo covers his cheeks thanking his
lucky stars. Thankful that he himself didn't mouth off at that time.

The other matter has to do with the demons.

549
Because Ling Xiao exposed the identity of the demon Luo Shan, the
spies in the other sects were also rooted out. After the secret agents
were killed, the demons suffered a huge loss. One of their
commanders was shamed into anger. He put together a group that
disguised themselves as humans and made a surprise attack on
human mystics. Although the move was very despicable, the number
of human mystics that died by their hand is really not just a few.
Among them was an Elder from ChongShan sect.

ChongShan sect's size is not like TianXin sect and QingCheng sect but
their strength can't be underestimated. The number of strong hands
in that sect is already not like QingCheng sect and TianXin sect. Now
with one dead, their power is diminished, throwing the whole
ChongShan sect into chaos.

QingCheng sect also has a blood feud with demons making them
enemies that can't live under the same sky. So the two sects decide
to join forces against the demons. But before they move against the
demons, they are determined to pull TianXin sect along.

TianXin sect as the number one sect can't shirk this responsibility.
Tang Fan discussed with the Elders and finally decides to send Ling
Xiao over.

Ling Xiao is the Grand disciple of the warrior division. For one, his
strength is outstanding. Two, he can use this opportunity to raise the
prestige of TianXin sect. Most importantly, Tang Fan got the news
that QingCheng sect's Luo ShuHe will personally show his face for
this attack to wipe out the demons.

And so, this is the real reason why Ling Xiao did not come to find You
XiaoMo these three months.

550
The attack wasn't successful. The demon commander received news
about it so he removed his subordinates in advance. So in the end,
the combined three sects only managed to catch a few shrimp
soldiers and crab generals. The rest all managed to get away.

Everyone set out in high spirits but returned disappointed.

But because of this attack, all the big sects finally got to know Luo
ShuHe's strength. Because the one that outwitted the few shrimp
soldiers and crab generals was him. If not for him, they probably
wouldn't even be able to get any shrimp soldiers and crab generals.
This campaign formally confirmed Luo ShuHe's standing as an
outstanding talent.

As for Ling Xiao, during this campaign, his performance was so so.

After coming back, Tang Fan actually called him over to talk for a day.
The contents are unknown except to themselves.

You XiaoMo can guess why Ling Xiao didn't go all out. Most probably
it's because he didn't want to expose himself. But it is also possible
that he just didn't feel like helping. For someone that can easily beat
the strong Elder Jiang dead in one strike, he doesn't believe that he
can't catch a single demon.

"Elder brother Ling, is that Luo ShuHe really that powerful?"

You XiaoMo asks full of curiosity.

Ling Xiao looks at him from the corner of his eye, "Why do you want
to know?"

You XiaoMo quickly shakes his head, "I'm only curious. According to

551
what you said, he gained a lot of attention during that campaign.
Everyone would definitely praise him. But, some narrow-minded
people ah, they would definitely compare you to him, belittling you
to raise up Luo ShuHe. It's usually like that."

Ling Xiao laughs in amusement at his phrase 'narrow-minded'.

"Little brother, if Luo ShuHe has to depend on belittling others to

raise himself up and make a name for himself, then the people that
boost him higher would only cause him to fall harder. In this world,
people with such good hearts don't exist. Even if they did, it won't be
that group of fools."

Ling Xiao's voice is very languid and somewhat hypnotizing. Neither

hurried nor slow. Neither cold nor warm. Gentle and indolent yet
making it hard for others to understand. He is clearly speaking words
of condemnation yet he is speaking as if he is reciting poetry.

You XiaoMo pouts exaggeratedly. This person is actually condemning

people in such an elegant way, "But your reputation was really
harmed, was it not?"

Although he didn't hear it with his own ears, he can imagine what
those people said. It must have been some hurtful words.

"Me?"

Ling Xiao smiles devilishly, beaming as he says, "Little brother. Are

you sure that it is my reputation that suffered?"

You XiaoMo's mouth hangs open and he is tongue-tied. Of course.

This person is pretending to be Lin Xiao. Yet, he has never taken
anything regarding Lin Xiao seriously. If it continues going this way,

552
all that Lin Xiao worked for would be completely lost.

You XiaoMo mourns silently for Lin Xiao for three seconds.

"Alright, you should also prepare yourself. The assessment is in three

days. At that time, it won't just be Earth peak disciples. The Heaven
peak and Flying peak disciples that entered half a year ago will also
be taking part. There will be quite a lot of people. You have to
prepare yourself mentally to avoid making me lose face when the
time comes."

Ling Xiao stands up and pats his shoulder speaking earnestly.

You XiamoMo immediately glares at him. What do you mean let you
lose face? Whether or not I lose face has nothing to do with you!

Of course, he only dares to roar these words in his heart.

After talking for over two hours, Ling Xiao conveniently takes two
bottles of magic pills with him as he leaves. They are all level two
magic pills. In seclusion for three months, You XiaoMo refined a lot
of magic pills. He refined an extra two bottles in addition to those for
auction. There are still quite a lot left.

After he leaves, You XiaoMo picks up a few bottles of level one magic
pills that he already refined and heads to the Hall of Enchanted
Herbs.

Before he went into seclusion, he frequently went to the Hall of

Enchanted Herbs to pick up thousand over level one magic herbs.
Although he now has magic herbs from his dimension, if he doesn't
go to pick up magic herbs from the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, it would
easily raise the suspicions of others.

553
Just when he is about to enter the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, You
XiaoMo runs into the one that always appears and disappears
mysteriously, Fu ZiLin.

When he sees him, You XiaoMo remembers what the neighboring

disciple told him. Supposedly this Second brother came to look for
him and let out a burst of cold air. Imagining that scene, he can't
bring himself to smile. Seeing him now, that feeling becomes even
more intense.

"Second brother. Is there something you need?"

You XiaoMo blinks while looking at the expressionless Fu ZiLin

walking up to him.

Fu ZiLin stares at him for a good while before saying, "I owe you
one."

He then leaves.

You XiaoMo thinks that this Second brother is really awkward. But so
adorably awkward!

Walking into the Hall of Enchanted Herbs, You XiaoMo immediately

walks up to Uncle Zhao at the counter, "Uncle Zhao, here are two
hundred magic pills. Give them a count. They are all here."

Uncle Zhao takes them and puts them away without so much as a
second look. He raises his pen and says, "Four hundred magic pills in
three months. This number is rather little compared to what you
refined before. Do you want to take more magic herbs?"

554
"Yes. But this time I want to take level two magic herbs."

You XiaoMo speaks with a little embarrassment. After all, he can't

say that he has his own magic herbs ba.

Uncle Zhao finally looks up in surprise.

Note:
shrimp soldiers and crab generals - minor players

555
Chapter 93 - Master Of Magic Herb
Cultivation

"You're already a level two mage?"

Uncle Zhao asks in surprise.

"Right now I want to take some level two magic herbs and try it out.
The assessment is in three days. I'm afraid I won't make it in time."

You XiaoMo tells a lie without looking away.

This is something he is forced to do. Everyone knows that he is now

only a level one mage. If he suddenly becomes a level two mage
three days later during the assessment, with no rhyme or reason, it
would definitely make people suspect him.

So he must start to refine level two magic pills now. Then three days
later it will be perfectly justifiable. If he passes the test, he can chalk
it up to good luck, coincidence, and the like.

Uncle Zhao knows about this matter. Actually, he already thought

about this before.

He was one of the first to come into contact with You XiaoMo. He
also knows that this young man has always been very diligent so he
hopes in his heart that he will be able to pass the test. Otherwise,
not only will he lose face, Earth peak will also be embarrassed.

But it has been half a year and he has not seen him take level two
magic herbs. A few days ago, he heard that he went into seclusion.

556
So he is puzzled. Can staying in seclusion make someone able to
refine level two magic pills? And then, a few days later, he comes out
of seclusion and runs here to him asking for level two magic herbs.

"Your Elder brother must have told you that level two magic herbs is
not the same as level one magic herbs. You can't just take whatever
you want."

Zhao Zhen speaks in a businesslike manner. Regarding these things,

he doesn't even make exceptions for his own son, Zhao DaZhou. But
he will do his best to fulfill his duty as a father, that is to give him a
chance to go fight for it. Although his son is sometimes lacking, he
has never disappointed him before.

"Yes, Elder brother said that only a certain amount can be taken each
day."

You XiaoMo replies immediately, nodding as he speaks.

Zhao Zhen continues speaking, "Let me explain it to you now. It takes

a longer time to grow level two magic herbs compared to level one
magic herbs. They are also not as easy to grow as level one magic
herbs. So the harvest is relatively less, hence the need for limits. This
bit can't be avoided by anyone. During their time, it was also the
same for your Elder brother and Second brother. Since you are now a
level two mage, you can now take take enough for ten magic pills
each day. If you think it's too little, you can only go fight for
yourself."

You XiaoMo thinks it over, and says, "Uncle Zhao, can I take the
amount for one month?"

"Of course. But if you take the whole amount for one month now,

557
the next time can only be one month later. You can only take one
month in advance, nothing more. Also the rules for level two magic
pills is the same as for level one magic pills. You have to hand in
half."

Uncle Zhao says.

"I understand. Thank you Uncle Zhao."

You XiaoMo says happily.

"How much do you want now?"

Zhao Zhen sees that he truly understands so he doesn't explain any

further.

"One month's worth. I want to make fifteen types of magic pills."

You XiaoMo speaks without any hesitation, just like he did before
with the level one magic herbs.

Zhao Zhen also doesn't feel that it is strange, immediately allocating

one month's worth for him.

Ten magic pills a day is thirty stalks of magic herbs. So a month will
be nine hundred stalks of magic herbs. This quantity if you compare
it to level one magic herbs is nothing much but if you add it up for
multiple disciples, it amounts to one small fortune.

You XiaoMo got the nine hundred stalks of magic herbs easily and
goes back directly to his room.

Returning to the room, he takes out a few stalks of magic herbs to

558
take a look. Of course it's just like he thought. They are all low grade
magic herbs mostly of low quality. Only this kind of magic herbs will
given out to the disciples to use freely. Otherwise, this amount each
month, TianXin sect will sooner or later be driven to poverty.

You XiaoMo suddenly feels sympathy for TianXin sect. In actual fact,
it's not easy being TianXin sect. So many disciples to nurture, it's no
wonder that they formed a business division to earn money.

Three days of time. Not long yet not short.

But this time You XiaoMo doesn't lock himself in his room and refine
magic pills. Instead, he goes to find Fang ChenLe.

Although this road of a mage seems to be something he figured out

from reading books and fumbling around, no matter how talented,
it's still not something that can be done on one's own. So he decides
to go to Elder brother and dig up some information. At the least, he
has to keep up appearances. On top of that, the brother next door
told him that Elder brother asked him to go look for him when he
came out of seclusion.

Fang ChenLe is extremely happy that Little brother is here to see

him. If it wasn't because this is a busy time, he would have gone to
look for him again.

"Little brother, you're finally willing to come out of seclusion. You

really kept Elder brother waiting."

Fang ChenLe walks up to You XiaoMo and can't help rubbing his
head. He is already used to his full of life appearance and rosy
cheeks. After all, everyone is a little different from others.

559
You XiaoMo knows that Elder brother has a lot of things that he
wants to tell him so he simply says, "Elder brother, I have something
to tell you."

"Looking at your expression, it must be something good. Can it be

that you are already a level two mage?"

Fang ChenLe looks at him seriously, making a rough guess.

You XiaoMo stares at him in surprise, "How did you know?"

He hasn't said anything!

Fang ChenLe looks at his shocked expression and smiles warmly, "I
just met your Second brother. He told me that you have come out of
seclusion. Your assessment is in three days. Now looking at your very
happy manner, I'm guessing that must be the reason."

This Elder brother is really smart. You XiaoMo sighs in his heart. He
feels that everyone around him is not someone to be trifled with.
Each one is not as they seem on the outside, like how still waters run
deep.

Can it be that the reality is, he is too stupid so in comparison other

people seem especially smart?

In order to thank You XiaoMo for ceding the opportunity to him,

Fang ChenLe answers his questions in detail. Especially since he
knows that he just became a level two mage and with the
assessment three days later, he tells him all the necessary things that
level two mages should focus on. Finally he tells him that if he
doesn't have enough magic herbs, he can get some from him."

560
Although he knows that Elder brother has a magic herb field, You
XiaoMo doesn't plan on using his magic herbs. He grows magic herbs
himself so he knows how hard it is to grow magic herbs.

But Elder brother's manner is very firm so You XiaoMo can't refuse
and so pretends to agree.

After this, You XiaoMo spends the whole morning interacting with
Fang ChenLe.

Fang ChenLe, as a level four mage is much more knowledgable than

You XiaoMo. Also he has plenty of experience. Sometimes with just a
few words he clears up matters that perplex You XiaoMo. Such as
using the soul force.

Before, he was completely didn't understand why the soul force can
easily melt the ice sculptures made out of condensed spiritual
energy. Now he understands.

A very long time a go, an Elder said that the soul of a mage is like a
sea that receives a hundred rivers, just like a person's tolerance. The
soul can sense the spiritual energy on heaven and earth, and by
absorbing pure spiritual energy, the soul can put it to use. Since the
ice sculptures in the ice cave is made up of condensed spiritual
energy, the soul force emanating from the soul can naturally cut or
melt it.

On top of that, the purer the soul force of the mage, the higher the
affinity with magic herbs. So the quality of the magic herbs cultivated
will also be better. It must be said that magic herbs are mostly
spiritual entities.

Of course, this is what everyone knows. Only an outsider like You

561
XiaoMo would be completely clueless. In other words, the purer the
soul, the better.

One conversation later, the benefits You XiaoMo receives is not little,
much more than he would have gotten from reading on his own.

Now he knows why Uncle Ye is the best mage in TianXin sect when it
comes to cultivating magic herbs. That's because his soul is pure.
Furthermore, he is very clear on good vs. evil and has very little
desire for material gains. This type of person is indeed very suited to
cultivating magic herbs.

"Little brother, you must remember one point. The higher the level
of a mage doesn't mean that the soul will be purer. This has to do
with the heart of the mage. If one can put one's heart at peace, not
worrying about gains and losses, not caring about fame and wealth,
then that person will be the best choice for cultivating magic herbs.
Even if that person is a level one mage, he has a high chance of
becoming an outstanding master of cultivating magic herbs."

Fang ChenLe says with a look of longing.

A Master of magic herb cultivation is another profession that is

available to mages. One with a bright future at that.

It must be said that on this continent, to find a mage that is really

able to grow high quality magic herbs, it is possible that one can't
even be found in every ten thousand people. On top of that, most
mages are concentrated on raising their ability in refining magic pills
so it's even harder to find. But difficult to find doesn't mean this type
of person doesn't exist.

Some mages, because of low innate talent, they have no way of

562
becoming high level mages in this lifetime. So most of them would
choose to become magic herb cultivators. LongXiao continent does
not lack this kind of talent. But someone that is outstanding in both
refining magic pills and cultivating magic herbs, like Uncle Ye who is
both a high level mage and a high level magic herb cultivator, the are
considered a rare once in a century talent.

Fang ChenLe has a secret that is only knows to Fu ZiLin. His goal is
actually not to be like Master, but Uncle Ye Han.

He wants to be just like Uncle Ye Han. Become a high level mage as

well as a high level magic herb cultivator. He has always been
working hard toward this goal. In a moment of excitement, Fang
ChenLe tells this secret to You XiaoMo and tells him to keep it a
secret, especially from Master. Seeing that Fang ChenLe shares such
an important secret with him, You XiaoMo immediately agrees to
keep the secret secure.

After taking leave from Fang ChenLe, You XiaoMo goes back to his
room.

His heart is in a constant state of excitement. A high level mage as

well as a high level magic herb cultivator. That is such a mighty
dream!

He also wants to be like Elder brother and pursue a mighty dream.

But when he thinks about his innate talent, he feels that there is no
hope for him to be a high level mage. But after talking with Elder
brother, another door opens up for him.

That is to become a Master of magic herb cultivation!

He feels that since he can't become a high level mage, then

563
becoming a high level magic herb cultivator is not a bad choice. Just
like they say, 'There are three hundred and sixty walks of life. Each
one produces its own number one scholar'. He only has to be willing
to work hard!

__________________________________________________
I don't speak Chinese. Corrections welcomed.

564
Chapter 94 - Assessment (I)

After that, You XiaoMo used two days to try refining thirty magic
pills.

Although the quality of the magic herbs is very low, it is not

completely of no use to You XiaoMo. Because of the low quality, the
magic herbs contain quite a bit of impurities. You XiaoMo makes use
of this point to practice his ability to distill level two magic herbs.

After two days of experimenting, he figures out that he can at most

distill the magic herbs three to four times. This number is already
considered very high for other mages because ordinary mages can
only distill level two magic herbs one to two times, and not any more
than that. On top of that, the quality of the magic herbs is not high
so the resulting magic pills can only be described as 'poor'.
Furthermore, the risk remains as high as thirty five percent.

But after several rounds of distillation, You XiaoMo is able to reduce

the risk of level two magic pills. He reduced the risk of low grade
level two magic pills to fifteen percent. Although it still can't
compare to the high grade magic pills he refined before, but for low
grade magic pills, it is considered pretty good. Some people are too
poor to buy a single high grade magic pill even after saving up for it
their whole lives.

After sighing with emotion, You XiaoMo no longer hides in his room
refining magic pills. For the remaining day, he starts to learn to
interact with his neighboring disciples, gaining a lot of useful
information from them.

565
Because the assessment is tomorrow, the disciples that came in half
a year ago like him are all very nervous because tomorrow's
assessment will affect their future. It's not possible for them not to
be nervous.

You XiaoMo is already a level two mage so he is not worried. It's just
that he finds it unexpected that all three peaks will be undergoing
the assessment together.

"Elder brother Chen, why do the three peaks hold the assessment
together?"

You XiaoMo asks a Big brother who speaks frankly and confidently.

Brother Chen turns around and sees that You XiaoMo is the one that
asked the question. He actually doesn't want to answer him but
seeing that the surrounding brothers are all looking at him wide-
eyed, he feels that it's not good if he doesn't answer, "This rule was
put in place by the founder of our Mage division to promote
interaction and friendship among the three major peaks. But with
the passing of time, this assessment lost it's original intention and
turned into a big contest between the three major peaks."

This Brother Chen was the one that went to the Stone room together
with You XiaoMo at that time to train the soul force. The one that
was sent flying after he accidentally caused his cauldron to explode.

At that time he was embarrassed by You XiaoMo's instant success.

Then, when You XiaoMo was praised by Fifth brother, his heart
became even more unhappy with You XiaoMo. And when he found
out that he was accepted by Kong Wen as a disciple, his heart
became even more dissatisfied.

566
But after that, he rarely saw You XiaoMo again. Now seeing him once
more, his heart is still a little unhappy but he no longer shows it on
his face.

"Brother Chen, according to what you said, if we do badly, wouldn't

that mean we would lose face in front of everyone?"

You XiaoMo becomes aware of the conflict between the three major
peaks for the first time. If it continues going on like this, the
relationship between Earth peak and Heaven peak would reach an
extent where they can no longer reconcile their differences, very
disadvantageous for the inner workings of TianXin sect.

"That's for sure. Especially for you Brother You. You are Kong Wen's
direct disciple. If you were to lose face in front of everyone, the
result would be unimaginable!"

When Brother Chen speaks about You XiaoMo, there is an added

faint gloating at his misfortune.

"Thank you for your concern. I will try my best."

You XiaoMo smiles as he answers.

Who is concerned about you? Brother Chen snorts *qi*.

Although he got the information that he wanted, You XiaoMo

doesn't leave immediately, hanging around with everyone for a bit.

In the evening, a disciple comes over to inform You XiaoMo that the
assessment tomorrow will be held in the morning during the Si
period. Everyone is to assemble at the Hall of Enchanted Herbs
before the Si period.

567
After sending the disciple off, You XiaoMo closes the door and goes
to sleep. He doesn't seize this time to refine magic pills. After all,
nothing much can be done in a night. Also, it has already been a long
time since he had a good rest.

Ling Xiao didn't come to find him that night. Maybe he is busy so You
XiaoMo doesn't see him even after he woke up and went to the
assembly point.

This time the one that leads them to the assessment is Kong Wen.

Although the disciples undergoing to assessment are those that

entered the sect about half a year ago, adding them up, it still
amounts to a considerable number. And they are all the future
lifeblood of the three major peaks so Kong Wen attaches great
importance to this matter.

Their destination is the Hall of Mages.

The Hall of Mages is the most peculiar looking building in TianXin

sect. Its outer shape is that of a black cauldron, making it look very
distinctive. There are two powerful stone guardian lions flanking the
entrance. Their eyeballs are carved out of red jade that seem to give
of rays that can see through a person's heart. Just one look and you
wouldn't dare to look at them again.

An inscribed dark red sandalwood plaque hangs on top of the

building. On it is inscribed clearly 'Hall of Mages'. Three large and
simple characters written with forceful strokes, clearly the work of a
great Master.

Kong Wen says a few words to the two guards standing outside the

568
Hall of Mages before leading them inside.

You XiaoMo follows behind everyone. He looks up at the plaque of

the Hall of Mages and feels that it is very majestic. Then he looks in
all directions but doesn't see anyone from Heaven peak or Flying
peak. Maybe they haven't arrived or they could already be inside.

Walking into the Hall of Mages, a slight medicinal fragrance

immediately floods the nose, instantly lifting spirits and easing
minds.

The main hall is very spacious roughly able to hold more than five
hundred people. From the outside one can't actually tell that it is so
wide, making it suddenly feel bright and open. There are groups of
people standing inside chatting in groups of two to three. Most of
them are very young, some not even older than fifteen.

Hearing the sound of footsteps, they look towards the entrance.

Seeing Kong Wen at the lead, everyone's questioning eyes
immediately change to looks of respect.

Although Kong Wen is from Earth peak, no matter how you look at it,
he is still a high level mage and also their senior. Even if they look
down on the disciples of Earth peak, they still don't dare to show any
inkling of that in front of him.

You XiaoMo doesn't recognize the people inside but the disciples
around him do.

Upon seeing them, the happy chatting voices quiet down. Their faces
also look rather unhappy. You XiaoMo guesses immediately that
these disciples are most probably from Heaven peak.

569
A middle-aged man sporting a black beard steps out from the crowd.
Kong Wen turns around and tells the disciples to wait for him where
they are before walking up to that man.

You XiaoMo finally recognizes that person. He is Mo Gu, the Heaven

peak elder he met when he went down the mountain the first time.
A level five mage.

"Brother Kong, why are you bringing them over personally this time?
Where is Brother Xiao?"

Mo Gu cups his hands as he bows towards Kong Wen. His seniority is

lower than Kong Wen so it is only right that he bows.

Kong Wen nods his head slightly, "He had something to do so it's up
to me to bring them this time. It's almost time to start. Flying peak is
not here yet?"

Brother Xiao is one of the Elders that was there when You XiaoMo
faced the 'combined judgement of three courts'. Before he was
always the one that led the disciples over for the assessment. So Mo
Gu is a little surprised that it is Kong Wen this time.

Just as he says these words, sounds of footsteps can be heard

coming from the entrance.

Kong Wen and Mo Gu look over at the same time. The person
leading the way is the master of Flying peak, Zhou Yu. He has a
mottled grayish white beard with a kindly face, looking very much
like a friendly and benign person. Like Kong Wen, he is also a high
level mage with considerable prestige but is especially low profile.
This is one of the reasons why he is always the peacemaker when
conflicts arise between Heaven peak and Earth peak.

570
Because of his low profile, some people would sometimes forget
about his existence. Not only that, the disciples of Flying peak are
also just as low key.

As for coming just in time, Zhou Yu apologizes very politely. Kong

Wen treats him indifferently while Mo Gu says a few flattering
words.

Zhou Yu strokes his beloved beard with the same slight smile on his
face. A smile that is just right, so as to not be irritating. It shows that
he really has the ability to act as a peacemaker.

"It's time. Gather up the disciples ba. Then the testing will
commence."

Kong Wen says these words to the two of them then turns to walk
back to his own disciples.

Zhou Yu and Mo Gu return to their own disciples wordlessly, and

start to make arrangements for the assessment.

This assessment is for the disciples that TianXin sect took in half a
year ago. Some are already formal disciples while some are still
probationary disciples. Although the status is different, the
assessment is still the same. Of course there are also a few people
that entered a few days earlier or later.

Kong Wen calls his disciples up to him. He didn't ask You XiaoMo to
stand in front of him just because he is his direct disciple. After
instructing them on things they should pay attention to during the
assessment, he starts to arrange them in order.

571
In order to prevent chaos, each disciple from each peak is given a
tablet. A number is carved on each tablet. During the assessment,
the disciples will go up according to the numbers called.

Earth peak has a total of twenty four disciples. This number is a little
less than the year before but it's still consistent with the average.
Heaven peak and Flying peak also have twenty four each, but their
quality is clearly better than Earth peak.

You XiaoMo receives a yellow tablet that has the number seven on it.

He glances over to Heaven peak and Earth peak. They have red and
green tablets respectively. Clearly it's to distinguish the disciples.

The one presiding over the assessment is a Senior from the Hall of
Mages. Seeing that everyone has gotten a tablet, the Senior
announces the start of the assessment. With these words the floor
suddenly shakes and nine stone platforms immediately rise from
under the floor.

Note:
Si period - 09:00-11:00

572
Chapter 96 - Magic Pill Evaluation

Hearing these words, everyone looks over to him in surprise.

Tang YunQi who wanted to see him make a fool of himself frowns
deeply. She looks darkly at the cauldron in front of him, her eyes
burning with rage. The fists hanging at her side are clenched so
tightly that they turn bright red clearly showing how much force she
is using.

That Senior raises his brow slightly and walks over asking calmly,
"Where is the damage?"

You XiaoMo turns the cauldron over. There are criss-crossed cracks
on the bottom. At first it was only one crack. But because of his
actions while refining the magic pill, the crack couldn't withstand it,
causing it to widen.

The Elder frowns and without a word, gets someone to replace the
cauldron. The first portion of magic herbs is ruined just because of
the issue with the cauldron. But he doesn't give him another portion.

After receiving the cauldron from that young man that distributed
the magic herbs earlier, You XiaoMo deliberately examines it in front
of him. After making sure that there are no cracks on the bottom,
You XiaoMo feels more at ease. He doesn't want to discover the
same thing again after having started refining. After all, he only has
one portion of materials left. If doesn't make it this time, that would
mean he would have really failed the assessment.

The young man lowers his head as if he doesn't notice his actions.

573
When he walks by the Senior, his steps falter a bit. By the time he
gets back to his original position, his eyes seem red.

You XiaoMo lets out a light sigh. Actually, he himself doesn't want to
be too fussy. But this time, the situation is beyond his control. If the
cauldron were to really explode, it might affect the two disciples at
his side. If they were Heaven peak disciples, he wouldn't feel bad.
Just blame it on their bad luck. But one of them is an Earth peak
disciple. He is not the Virgin Mary, so he isn't that kind-hearted. But,
if he were to cause this disciple to fail the assessment, he can
guarantee that after that he would be drowned to death by the
saliva from everyone's condemnation. That disciple would also put
the blame on him. This is not what he wants to shoulder so he
chooses to give up halfway.

Because of this matter, there is less than half of the fine sand
remaining.

You XiaoMo takes one sweeping look at the other cauldrons. A lot of
them have already started the final blending step.

Throwing in the final portion of materials into the cauldron, You

XiaoMo starts to concentrate once again. Several hundred pairs of
eyes are thrown to the back of his head and ignored. The only things
that remain are the magic herbs in the cauldron. One half of the time
left means fifteen minutes. This duration of time may seem tight for
others but You XiaoMo is not the least bit anxious.

After talking with Elder brother, his understanding of the soul force
has reached another level. At first, he thought that the soul force can
be released from any part of the body. Now he knows that that is a
misconception. Only beginners would think that way. The true soul
force should be released from the ten fingers. Only this way will it

574
not be wasted. On top of that, others will not be able to discern your
exact condition when done this way. That's because some high level
master mages will only need to take one look at your soul force and
figure out your strength. So hiding one's own strength is also
something that mages need to learn.

After settling his thoughts, You XiaoMo uses his soul force to dissolve
the three stalks of magic herbs into liquid. Then he slowly distills the
three pools of liquid. After a while, some impurities fall off into the
dark depths at the bottom of the cauldron. Then he starts the second
round of distillation .......

He is full of concentration throughout the whole process. Other

people can tell than he is distilling the magic herbs but they can't see
what is really happening in the cauldron.

After the first disciple successfully refines a magic pill, the second
one and third one follow. Luckily, one among them is actually the
disciple standing next to You XiaoMo, from the same peak, who can
hardly hide the joy on his face. The Earth peak disciples behind him
also feel very happy seeing this. Even Kong Wen's serious face
softens a little. This is the fourth Earth peak disciple to pass the test
because four had failed during the previous two rounds.

Soon after this disciple's success, the other disciple seems to be

spurred on and with one eighth of the time remaining, he finally
succeeds in refining a magic pill with the second portion of the
materials.

At this time, with the time limit fast approaching, only two people
are still refining magic pills among the nine stone platforms.

One of them is You XiaoMo. The other, surprisingly, is actually

575
Heaven peak's Jiang Liu. He is standing at the first platform,
separated by five platforms from You XiaoMo. The two of them seem
to be at the blending step. With the time limit fast approaching, they
both appear calm and composed.

But the Heaven peak and Earth peak disciples all appear very
agitated.

For the Heaven peak people, Jiang Liu is their most outstanding new
disciple. If he fails, Heaven peak will lose face.

For the Earth peak people, You XiaoMo is a disciple of the Master of
the peak. As a formal disciple, if he fails, Kong Wen and Earth peak
will lose face.

Zhou Peng feels that he has never felt this nervous before. He wasn't
even this nervous when he faced Lei Ju on stage and this is all
because of You XiaoMo who is in the middle of refining a magic pill,
"Elder brother, the time is almost up. Why is your Little brother still
not done ah?"

"It's not you who is refining the magic pill. Why are you so anxious?"

Ling Xiao looks at You XiaoMo expressionlessly.

"I'm feeling anxious on your behalf ma. After all he is your Little
brother. If it's someone else, I wouldn't care."

Zhou Peng feels himself getting so anxious that he is going round in

circles. And Elder brother is actually showing no expression at all,
feeling really like 'Emperor is not worried but his eunuchs are
worried to death' type of situation.

576
The reality is, Zhou Peng doesn't really understand Ling Xiao.

If You XiaoMo were to see Ling Xiao right now, he would be able to
tell that he is not in a good mood.

"Ha! Brother Jiang Liu has succeeded!"

A joyful shout comes from the Heaven peak group. Seeing that the
shout is coming from the Heaven peak side, Ling Xiao can't help but
frown.

At this time, Jiang Liu who is standing at the first stone platform is
smiling proudly. In his hand is an impressive magic pill. The magic pill
is light blue in color but it is a shade darker than light blue.
Compared to the magic pills from the other disciples, it is clearly a
little better. No wonder he is smiling so brilliantly.

The happier the people from Heaven peak, the more unsightly the
faces of the people from Earth peak. Looking at the glowing faces of
the people from Heaven peak, the faces of the Earth peak disciples
get darker and darker, moving their line of sight to You XiaoMo.

At this time, the amount of fine sand remaining in the hourglass is

not much.

Ling Xiao's tight expression suddenly relaxes when he sees You

XiaoMo's shoulders raise a little. His lips slowly curve up a little while
Zhou Peng at his side is still anxious to the point of death.

"Time's up!"

The Senior's roaring voice suddenly rings out.

577
At the same time, a light red magic pill flies out of the cauldron. You
XiaoMo hastily stretches out his hand to catch it.

The hearts of the Earth peak disciples that were suspended in mid air
suddenly fall back down. Really scaring them to death. They thought
that You XiaoMo wouldn't make it in time. Luckily he managed to
catch up.

"Damn it!"

Tang YunQi gloomily bites her lower lip, finding it hard to conceal the
sinister gleam in her eyes. She glares hatefully You XiaoMo who is
holding a light red magic pill. She designed those two plans
specifically and they both actually failed.

The two people at her side look at each other in dismay. Unable to
come up with any words of comfort, they can only pray that You
XiaoMo refined a dead magic pill.

Jiang Liu walks up to You XiaoMo, his somewhat childish face

showing a brilliant smile, Big brother You, congratulations ya!"

You XiaoMo was looking absorbedly at the magic pill in his hand.
Suddenly hearing these words, he looks over in surprise. Only then
does he find out that it is actually his fellow villager Jiang Liu. Ever
since the competition at Central peak, he has not seen him again. He
didn't expect that he would be in the same round.

You XiaoMo sees the magic pill in his hand and smiles saying,
"Younger brother Jiang. I too have to congratulate you. Looks like
you have passed the test."

Jiang Liu playfully sticks out his tongue, saying happily, "Big brother

578
You. This words must wait until after the magic pill evaluation. I
would be even happier if you say it to me then ba."

Even though he says those words, the joy in his words is very
obvious.

Because it is only them that have yet to have their magic pills
evaluated, the both of them walk up together to the Senior. Jiang Liu
is the first to hand over his magic pill respectfully to the Senior. The
light blue magic pill rolls in his hand giving out a light medicinal
fragrance.

The Senior is a level six mage. Although his power is not as high as
Kong Wen and his peers, but his ability in evaluating magic pills is
higher than theirs. So as long the magic pill evaluation is done by
him, no one would question the result.

Everyone sees him take the magic pill from Jiang Liu and those eyes
that look muddy but are actually very shrewd, look fixedly at the
magic pill for a bit. Then with some satisfaction he says in a clear
loud voice, "Blue spirit magic pill. Distilled twice. Medium quality low
grade magic pill. I declare that Heaven peak's Jiang Liu passed the
test."

Just when he finishes speaking, all the Heaven peak disciples burst
out in cheers.

Because of the limit from the materials, all the magic pills refined by
the disciples can only be low grade magic pills. But even though they
are low grade magic pills, the quality can still be a little different. So
the ones distilled once are of low quality, the ones distilled twice are
of medium quality while the ones distilled thrice are of high quality.

579
But the disciples now can only distill once. So Jiang Liu's
achievement, distilling twice and in one try, is actually quite excellent
when compared to others.

Jiang Liu himself is feeling very excited, revealing a slight arrogance

in his eyes. Then he realizes that there is still You XiaoMo standing
next to him, so he restrains that bit of arrogance and says smilingly
to him, "Big brother You. It's now your turn."

580
Chapter 97 - In The Limelight

Blue spirit pill is a magic pill used to amplify the power of martial
artists. This magic pill is what You XiaoMo refined the most during his
three month seclusion. He refined about one hundred and fifty pills.
Its difficulty is only second to the Reserve energy pill, also a level two
magic pill that there can not be enough of. That's because it can
increase the power of a martial artist in a very short time. Its side
effect is the loss of power for one hour. Although there is a side
effect, it still causes martial artists to rush after it like a flock of
ducks.

You XiaoMo refined so many Blue spirit pills because he is preparing

to go down the mountain and sell them for money.

But he still admires Jiang Liu. He already knew long ago that he is an
outstanding talent, becoming a level two mage in a short half a year,
even able to refine a Blue spirit magic pill. Clearly he is much
stronger than the other disciples.

Hearing his words, You XiaoMo smiles and nods at him before
handing over the magic pill to the Senior in front of him.

The Senior takes the magic pill. Its light pink color and luster is very
vivid. Used to looking at magic pills with an indifferent look, he is
suddenly stunned. His half-closed eyes also widen a little looking in
amazement at the young man, saying, "This Reserve energy magic
pill was really refined by you?"

You XiaoMo is stupefied by the question. If not me then who? Of

course he doesn't dare to answer this way. After being stunned for a

581
moment, he nods his head, "Replying to Elder. It's me who refined
it."

The Senior strokes his mottled black and white beard. A satisfied
smile appears on his serious face. This smile is quite obvious,
appearing on the wrinkled Senior's face, making him suddenly
appear lively. One look and it's clear that it is a smile from the inside.

Jiang Liu who is standing at the side and even all those watching this
scene all feel very surprised.

Although the assessment only started not long ago and there are still
many disciples that have yet to do the test, it is the first time they
see the Senior showing such a happy expression. Doesn't this mean
that that disciple called You XiaoMo refined an extraordinary magic
pill?

Jiang Liu bites his lips, looking guardedly at You XiaoMo whose
expression remains the same from the beginning to now.

"Reserve energy magic pill. Distilled twice. Low grade magic pill of
medium quality. I declare that Earth peak's disciple You XiaoMo
passes the test."

After the Senior says this, he returns the magic pill to You XiaoMo
and at the same time commends him with a nod saying, "Not bad,
continue giving it your best effort. Be sure to guard against rashness
and arrogance."

You XiaoMo restrains his excitement, and happily takes the magic
pill, "Thank you Elder. Disciple will try his best and definitely live up
to your expectations."

582
"Alright, you all can go back down. Next is the fourth round of
assessment. Those numbers that are called, step up."

The Senior waves his hand lightly. His face becomes serious once
again, calling out calmly and expressionlessly.

You XiaoMo turns around and is about to walk away when Jiang Liu
suddenly says somewhat cynically, "Congratulations Big brother
You."

You XiaoMo turns around and sees Jiang Liu smiling brilliantly, as if
what he felt just now was only his misconception. So he happily says,
"I also have to congratulate you Junior brother Jiang. Then I'll leave
first."

Jiang Liu looks at his retreating back and slowly loses his brilliant
smile. He then turns around and walks back the Heaven peak
disciples.

Returning to the group of people, You XiaoMo is immediately

congratulated warmly by all the disciples. Even Kong Wen with his
constant serious face, praises him generously with a few words, the
smile on his face getting a little deeper making him seem more
approachable.

This disciple did not let him down. It's not in vain that he made an
exception and accepted him as a disciple.

"Junior brother You, I didn't expect you to be so awesome. Even

refining a Reserve energy magic pill. And distilled twice at that. Even
stronger than that disciple Jiang Liu. Really making Earth peak
proud."

583
"That's right, that's right. But it's really unexpected that you actually
got the Reserve energy magic pill. I remember that the Reserve
energy magic pill is the most difficult level two magic pill."

"Heaven's peak Jiang Liu got the Blue spirit magic pill. Blue spirit
magic pill is hard to refine but he took a longer time to refine than
Junior brother You. The difficulty is also easier than Junior brother
You's. The both of them finished at about the same time. Looking at
it like this, Junior brother You is still the stronger one."

"We Earth peak finally have this day to walk with our heads held
high."

"Hey, you see. Heaven peak people have very black faces yo."

All sorts of excitable and gloating voices rise up one after another.
Usually Kong Wen would definitely not allow them to be so bad
mannered. But now, there is no reaction from him at all, as if he
can't hear the voices behind him. This tacit manner causes the
disciples to get very worked up, as if having been injected with
chicken blood.

But the more excited they get, the more unsightly the faces of the
Heaven peak disciples get on the other side. This is what is called the
reversal of the Wheel of fortune!

You XiaoMo smiles helplessly. He didn't think that he would be

pushed into the limelight like this. At first, he was worried that his
speed in refining magic pills is too fast, attracting suspicion. So he
deliberately slowed down. That's why he only finished when the time
was almost up.

As for distilling twice, he thought that the disciples undergoing the

584
assessment will also do this many times. That's why he gave up on
distilling three times. Only now does he realize that he forgot to
factor in the time.

For this assessment, the only requirement is that the disciples refine
a live magic pill. As for the quality of the pill, that is only secondary.
In other words, no many how times you distill, you will pass as long
as it is not a dead magic pill. That's why most of the disciples would
chose to only distill once whether it's because they are afraid of
failing or afraid that they won't have enough time.

Jiang Liu chose to distill twice because of his over self-confidence.

That's why he almost ran out of time. But he also actually got a little
big of fame for that. If it wasn't for a certain You XiaoMo, he would
definitely have been the most outstanding one for this assessment.

At the entrance, seeing that You XiaoMo is surrounded by his

brothers, Ling Xiao curves his lips slightly, turns around, and leaves
the Hall of Mages.

Zhou Peng thought he would go congratulate Little brother. Seeing

him turn around and leave, he rushes to catch up, "Elder brother,
you're leaving just like that? You're not going to say a few words to
Little brother? I feel that if you were to show up, he would be very
happy."

Ling Xiao turns to his side and looks at him ambiguously. He doesn't
think that You XiaoMo would be very happy. That fellow will
definitely think that he is there to make him do things that he
doesn't want to do.

But it doesn't matter. After all ....... there will be plenty of time for
that ah!

585
After Ling Xiao leaves, You XiaoMo finally looks up from everyone's
congratulations towards the door. But he doesn't see the one he
wants to see the most. He can't help but feel a little disappointment
bubbling up. Although there are times when he really loathes Ling
Xiao, there are also a lot of times when he really wants to share with
him the happy times.

Three hours later, the assessment if finally over.

You XiaoMo takes a quick look, fifteen of the twenty four Earth peak
disciples pass the test. This number must be pretty good since the
smile on Master's face does not decrease one bit.

As for Heaven peak and Flying peak, they have nineteen and
fourteen respectively. Three peaks have forty eight disciples passing
the test altogether.

This number is a little less than last year's. But it can't be helped
because budding mages are hard to come by these days. The
competition between the large sects are getting fiercer and fiercer.
Slow one step and the promising budding mages would be snatched
clean.

But from this You XiaoMo can see the gap between Heaven peak
when compared to Flying peak and Earth peak. On the surface, Earth
peak and Flying peak are only down by four or five disciples but this
also reflects the strength of the three major peaks. Heaven peak is
clearly a step above.

If Heaven peak were to receive the same proportion of disciples each

year, then it won't even take a few years before the number of
people in Heaven peak will surpass that of Earth peak and Flying

586
peak by quite a lot. Luckily TianXin sect doesn't restrict the Elders
from going down the mountain and taking in their own disciples. It's
most probably because of this that the three major peaks have
somewhat even number of people.

Upon returning to Earth peak, Kong Wen asks the nine disciples that
failed the test to pack up their things and go find Uncle Xiao. Uncle
Xiao will make the arrangements for what comes next. Then he lets
the rest of the people go except for You XiaoMo.

"Little Seven ah. Looks like Master has underestimated you."

Kong Wen paced around the same spot before suddenly stopping
and staring fixedly at You XiaoMo while saying these words.

You XiaoMo immediately starts to drip with cold sweat. These words
after all are ....... "Actually ....... Master's teaching is good."

Kong Wen waves his hand, "There's no need to say these flattering
words to Master. Master is very clear in his heart. After receiving you
as a disciple, I tossed you to Elder brother. Master really didn't
undertake any responsibility of being a Master. But Master also has
complicated difficulties. Hopefully you will understand. Now that you
are an official and rightful disciple, there are a few things that can
now be said to you."

"Master, I understand." I wonder if .......

Kong Wen continues speaking, "Several thousand years ago, TianXin

sect's size was much much smaller than what it is now. At that time,
the strongest one in the whole Mage division was a level four mage,
that is the founder of the Mage division. The founder always wanted
to expand the Mage division but had no way of doing so. Right until

587
the founder by chance and good luck came across a volume of
alchemical techniques."

"What alchemical techniques?"

You XiaoMo pretends to be curious. Actually he already guessed it.

"Martial artists require special techniques when training. Mages are

no exception. What the founder found was a volume of techniques
that train the soul force ....... "

The rest of it is pretty much the same as what Ling Xiao told You
XiaoMo before. In the end, getting to the heart of the matter, Kong
Wen finally decides to pass on that volume of alchemical techniques
to him. But he must swear an oath to be loyal to TianXin sect forever.
And he also can't tell the contents of the alchemical techniques to
anyone, not even those that are closest to him.

"Master ....... if the oath is violated in the future, what would

happen?"

You XiaoMo asks cautiously. Regarding oaths, he always wondered,

are they really effective?

It must be said that before, he was an atheist. But right now, that is
no longer the case .......

588
Chapter 98 - Inner demons of the void.

"If an oath is useless, why would Master make you swear it?"

Kong Wen says in a deep voice. He then explains the general points
on oaths that relate to mystics. In brief, oaths are like a checkpoint
type of barrier. If you break an oath, no matter if you're a mage or
martial artist, this oath will follow you forever, like an inner demon.
It would only disappear if you manage to defeat it, or ....... if you
yourself disappear.

If you are a mage, it is a hundred percent certain that you will remain
at that same level from that point onwards. If you are a martial artist,
it is even worse. When training to have a breakthrough, the oath will
wind around you. At the least, it will leave you with a severe injury.
At the worst, it would leave behind a hidden danger making you
stuck in that state. That's why a lot of martial artists and mages
won't swear an oath lightly.

You XiaoMo listens until he starts to drip with cold sweat. Luckily he
didn't break the oath he swore the last time at the Central lineage. If
not that plaything would latch on to him like an infection that
reaches the bone. Then he will have no hope of ever rising in rank.

But speaking of being loyal to TianXin sect, You XiaoMo feels that he
definitely doesn't feel much attachment to TianXin sect.
Furthermore, he has no need for TianXin sect's alchemical
techniques. If he were to let himself be controlled by TianXin sect for
a useless volume of alchemical techniques, isn't that just not worth
it?

589
Luckily Kong Wen didn't ask him swear the oath right away. Passing
on the alchemical techniques is a serious matter. Even though he is
one of the three highest level mages of TianXin sect, he still can't
pass on the alchemical techniques to his own disciple without prior
authorization. He still has to report to the higher ups and wait for the
elders to discuss it before making their decision.

This lets You XiaoMo heave a sigh of relief.

"Little Seven, this is as far as Master can help you. What comes next
will depend on your own efforts. Also, Master promised you the last
time that if Elder brother and Second brother passed Uncle Ye's test,
Master would grant you a request. This matter is now valid so have
you thought about what you want?"

Kong Wen says warmly.

"Thank you Master. But I still haven't decided. Can it wait until I have
decided?"

He almost forgot all about that matter.

"Yes. You can tell Master whenever you have decided."

Kong Wen nods his head.

After taking his leave from Master, You XiaoMo trots all the way
back. He comes across a lot of brothers on the way. Seeing him, all of
them become very excited, congratulating him one after another for
passing the assessment. Some of then even slapped him forcefully on
the shoulder, praising him greatly for beating the most outstanding
Heaven peak disciple, Jiang Liu. All of them can't hide the joy in their
hearts, especially the brothers that were mocked by Heaven peak

590
before.

You XiaoMo rubs his nose helplessly. He didn't think that this matter
would spread so quickly.

After bidding farewell to those brothers, You XiaoMo returns to his

own room. He finds out that the brothers next door have not
returned. Remembering that two of the brothers also passed the
test, he guessed that they must be out celebrating with everyone.

Pushing open the door, You XiaoMo is just about to walk in when his
steps suddenly come to a halt. He feels that there is an additional
familiar scent in the room. Raising his head, he sees a figure stepping
out from behind the folding screen. Dressed in a set of magnificent
white robes, the man's body is slim and graceful.

Seeing him, You XiaoMo's eyes immediately light up, "Elder brother
Ling, how come you're here?"

"Why? Are you not happy to see me?"

Ling Xiao narrows his eyes slightly but a smile escapes from his lips.

"No, no, I'm also looking for you."

You XiaoMo quickly shakes his head, bouncing happily up to Ling

Xiao, "Elder brother Ling. I have some good news to tell you. I
already passed the test and am now a formal disciple of TianXin sect.
Now I can go down the mountain whenever I want."

Ling Xiao places his palm on his head and smiles lightly, "I already
know. But these things you're telling me, the last bit is what you
really want to tell me ba?"

591
You XiaoMo laughs *hei hei*. That is exactly his intention.

"The matter with the auction, I've already arranged it. When the
time comes, you just have to prepare the things and we can go at
any time. But before that, we must first settle the thing with you."

That is the reason why Ling Xiao is here.

"Me? What about me?"

You XiaoMo asks in surprise.

Ling Xiao suddenly pinches his nose and snorts, saying, "Are you
telling me that Kong Wen didn't bring up the matter regarding that
volume of alchemical techniques?"

You XiaoMo is unable to breathe and hastily pulls away Ling Xiao's
hand, saying in surprise, "How did you know? Master really did bring
it up, just before this. Also, he said I would have to take an oath if I
wanted to study them. I was just thinking about discussing this
matter with you ne!"

Regarding the fact that he would be the first one that he looks for
when something happens, Ling Xiao is very pleased with that.
Because this proves that You XiaoMo is already starting to get used
to his presence. He is also starting to depend on him more and more.
He supposes that with time, this dependence will make him unable
to leave his side.

"This matter is not hard to understand. You displayed extraordinary

talent in the Hall of Mages, taking down Heaven peak's disciple in
one fell swoop. Based on this alone, it is enough to make TianXin sect

592
regard you with importance. Although your innate talent is a
restriction towards your future development, not all core disciples of
TianXin sect are high level mages. In light of your stellar
performance, if Kong Wen doesn't reel you in, that would mean that
he just appears more impressive than he really is."

Ling Xiao speaks confidently. Although he did go see the assessment

for himself, all these are just guesses.

You XiaoMo looks at him in admiration, praising him sincerely, "Elder

brother Ling, you're really incredible. The assessment just ended and
you already know so much. Then, what do you think I should do? I
already have the Heavenly Soul Scroll. TianXin sect's volume of
alchemical techniques don't seem to be of much use to me."

He doesn't want to take the pledge. He doesn't want to be restrained

for no reason by an oath just for a useless volume of alchemical
techniques. But he can't refuse because once he does, that would
mean that he has no intention of being loyal to TianXin sect. If that
happens, the result would be even more disastrous than taking the
pledge. He can even imagine Master's abrupt change in expression at
that time.

"That volume of garbage is really of not much use to you."

Ling Xiao walks towards the inside.

You XiaoMo immediately follows him while trying to flatter him,

"Elder brother Ling, you are so powerful. Do you have a way for me
to not take the pledge and yet not make Master suspect me?"

Ling Xiao glances at him with a twinkle in his eye. He lifts up his hand
and raps him on the head, "So you've actually learned the art of

593
flattery."

You XiaoMo pouts as he covers his head. He curses in his heart that
he is only doing what he must!

"Come here."

Ling Xiao walks to the bed and sits down, beckoning him over with
his finger.

The smile on his face is clearly a gentle one yet it undeniably makes
You XiaoMo feel as if a big-tailed wolf is waving to him. That
appearance, one look would make the heart feel ill at ease but he
has no other choice. The person he can rely on the most now is Ling
Xiao.

Walking over as slowly as he can, You XiaoMo gives out a silly laugh,
"Elder brother Ling, what are you doing?"

"Take off your shoes and get on the bed. Then I'll tell you."

Ling Xiao looks at him teasingly, pointing to the space at his side.

You XiaoMo's face slowly starts to get a little red. He is obviously

thinking of things that he shouldn't be thinking of. The feeling gets
stronger and stronger until he really wants to turn around and leave,
but he can't .......

Taking off his shoes, he slowly climbs onto the bed. You XiaoMo sits
cross-legged in front of Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao suddenly moves closer to him, the tip of his nose not even
one centimeter away from him. The hot air from his breath is like the

594
steam rising from boiling water, spraying onto You XiaoMo making
his ears turn red.

"Elder brother Ling ....... "

You XiaoMo sounds like a kitten, not knowing where he should put
his hands.

Ling Xiao raises the corners of his lips slightly, "No need to worry.
First I'll tell you how oaths are made."

You XiaoMo blinks. How oaths are made? It seems Master actually
didn't tell him. He only roughly described the restrictive and harmful
effects that oaths have on mages and martial artists.

"Do you know why oaths are effective on martial artists?"

Ling Xiao asks.

You XiaoMo shakes his head. This is what he really doesn't

understand. If oaths are really effective, all the people of the twenty
first century would be wiped out since they always swear oaths only
to break them again and again.

Ling Xiao didn't expect that he would know. He says wistfully,

"Outside the universe, there is a void. In it live peculiar creatures that
are called the void. When a martial artist swears an oath, it would
break through the void and enter the oath-taker's body, attaching
onto the surface of the soul. If the martial artists breaks the oath, the
void would drill into the soul much like an evil infection that reaches
the bones, only disappearing when the oath-taker is destroyed.

You XiaoMo's feels his hair stand up in terror. He rubs his arms

595
vigorously, "Is there really no way to defeat this void?"

Ling Xiao smiles, saying, "There isn't. One can only rely on willpower
to defeat the void. Only this way will one be able to shake off the
void forever. But after shaking off the void, there is a tremendous
benefit."

"What benefit?"

You XiaoMo's eyes light up as he asks hurriedly.

Ling Xiao looks at his sparkling eyes and suddenly feels an itch in his
heart. He narrows his eyes saying, "The benefit is, you no longer have
to fear the void anymore when swearing an oath. Because the oath
would make a different void appear. If the void that appears is
smaller than the one before, then even if you break the oath,
nothing would happen."

"Such good benefit ah. Then ....... "

You XiaoMo exclaims happily.

"Yes ah, so do you want to try?" Ling Xiao smiles deviously as he asks
softly.

You XiaoMo looks at his expression and immediately comes back to

his senses. He hastily waves his hand laughing *hei hei*, saying, "I'm
just joking."

Note:
beat horse fart - flatter

596
Chapter 99 - Blood Pact Seed

If the void can be defeated so easily, there won't be so many martial

artists afraid of it.

But the people that know about the existence of the void, if you
were to count on one's fingers, you may not even find five people in
the whole Long Xiao continent. That's why what Ling Xiao says is
completely different from what Kong Wen told You XiaoMo. His
words are one level deeper.

Although Kong Wen has a deep understanding of oaths, he doesn't

know about the existence of the void. That's why he can only tell You
XiaoMo the superficial things, the things that a lot of people also
know.

Ling Xiao stares at his face for a while until You XiaoMo becomes
embarrassed before he stops teasing him.

"Although there are people that have defeated the void, this type of
person is as rare as the feather of the phoenix or the horn of the
unicorn. You may not even find one in ten million people. So you
shouldn't place your hopes on defeating the void by some stroke of
luck."

"Then ....... how am I going to get past the void?"

You XiaoMo whispers his question.

"There is no way to escape from the void."

597
Ling Xiao says calmly.

"No way to escape? Then wouldn't I be caught up in it?"

You XiaoMo is no longer calm. He feels that Ling Xiao is always

playing with him, not coming to the point after all this talk.

Ling Xiao suddenly shows what can be called a warm and gentle
smile.

You XiaoMo jumps in fright, immediately not daring to complain

anymore, shrinking into himself.

A devilish gleam flashes in Ling Xiao's eyes. He grabs his arm and
pulls him to his side. He hooks one arm firmly around his waist and
very intimately rubs himself against his neck, before saying softly,
"With me here, how can I let you get caught up in it?"

These words are said very lightly, without the arrogance of

something said with utmost self-confidence. But it still has an
unshakable certainty that can't be matched by the words self-
confidence.

For some unknown reason, when You XiaoMo hears these words, an
indescribable heroic spirit emerges deep inside his heart. But this
heroic spirit is not his .......

"Then ....... what should I do?"

You XiaoMo swallows repeatedly.

Ling Xiao hugs him, both of his hands running all over his body while
he laughs freely as he speaks, "That would depend on whether you

598
trust me. The method is not difficult. You only have to let me plant a
blood pact seed in your body, let the seed stay deep in your mind,
close to the soul. When you swear an oath, the moment when the
void drills into your soul, the blood pact seed will automatically
gobble it up and destroy it."

You XiaoMo feels that this method is really miraculous, so he asks

cautiously, "What is the blood pact seed?"

"Oh, the blood pact seed is basically the seed of my spirit. As long as
the person is planted with my seed, he will be controlled by me."

Ling Xiao smiles slightly as he speaks slowly. Feeling the person in his
arms stiffen slightly, he smiles saying, "But it's not the same as a
puppet. As long as you don't betray me, my blood pact seed won't
devour your soul."

"De ....... devour the soul?"

You XiaoMo's eyes open wide, this is too terrifying ne!

"Little brother, this is not just a form of intimidation."

Ling Xiao whispers softly in his ear.

You XiaoMo pouts. This is a good solution? It's clearly jumping from
one fiery pit into another. Although the one controlling him is
different, in the end he will still be controlled by others.

Ling Xiao laughs *he he* saying, "So how? Have you decided which
one you want?"

You XiaoMo rolls his eyes uncertainly. Suddenly he gets a flash of

599
inspiration, quickly turning around and clutching Ling Xiao's robe,
saying full of hope, "Elder brother Ling, that blood pact seed can be
withdrawn ba. Since you can plant it, you should also be able to take
it back, right?"

Ling Xiao looks at his collar that is being held tightly by him. His lips
start to curve upwards, revealing a teasing smile, "Little brother, how
unexpected. Not seeing you for three days and you've actually
become smarter."

This statement means that he agrees with what he said ba?

You XiaoMo laughs *hei hei*. This is something he suddenly thought

about all on his own.
It's not something seen on TV. Furthermore, he was always a very
smart person OK!

Ling Xiao starts to laugh. There is an added hint of treachery and

craftiness in his eyes. He is absolutely not going to tell him that he
basically has no intention of taking back the blood pact seed after
everything is settled.

Although it really is as he said, he can control the person that is

planted with the blood pact seed whenever and wherever he wants,
but as long as he doesn't deliberately activate the blood pact seed,
the target won't be affected at all. Furthermore, what he said does
not describe the blood pact seed completely. It actually has another
very useful function. That is to protect You XiaoMo.

You XiaoMo is too weak. He can't be by his side at all times. So if by

chance something happens when he is not by his side, the blood pact
seed can save him. It can also call out to him whenever and from
wherever, and let him know that You XiaoMo is in danger.

600
As for why he is so concerned about You XiaoMo, to the extent of
planting the blood pact seed in his body, it can be attributed to his
selfish motives. He can't stay in TianXin sect forever. So if he were to
leave in the future, he will also take You XiaoMo with him. Since it is
already certain that he will have to 'betray' TianXin sect, he doesn't
want You XiaoMo to be restricted by TianXin sect, making him unable
to leave. So, even if You XiaoMo didn't come to look for him, he
would come over himself anyway.

"Elder brother Ling, then when should we start?"

You XiaoMo looks expectantly at him when he speaks.

He can't say for sure when Master will ask him to go over again. So
it's better to take care of this matter as soon as possible.

Hearing these words, an unmistakable smile appears on Ling Xiao's

face, faintly carrying a tinge of expectation. He licks his lips saying,
"Right now ....... we'll start now ba. First, close your eyes."

Although You XiaoMo feels that it's strange, he still obediently closes
his eyes.

Ling Xiao stretches out his slender jade-like finger and slowly strokes
along his white jade-like cheeks. His lips start to curve upwards
slightly. Little guy, actually letting the great me give you a blood pact
seed that has what is equivalent to one tenth of my power. In the
end, is this your good luck or my good luck? I hope you won't let me
down *he he* .......

Ling Xiao snaps his finger and sets up a barrier outside. When that is
done, he closes his eyes. Suddenly a captivating bright colored flame

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appears between his brows and eyes, about the size of a fingernail.
Appearing and disappearing between his brows, extremely
bewitching.

After a while, Ling Xiao suddenly opens his eyes.

The eyes that were originally black like the night sky sudden turn a
brilliant red like blood gems. A bewitching red, occasionally radiating
gold rays. His beautiful lips curve up devilishly. The sharp pointed nail
of his forefinger raises slightly the chin of the person in his arms. He
slowly lowers his head. The scorching bright red lips slowly cover the
lightly quivering lips of the other party. His slick wet tongue drills in
forcefully hooking onto that tongue that is constantly retreating,
entangling together, mixing their saliva together until they can no
longer be distinguished, flooding You XiaoMo's oral cavity. In the
end, it becomes too much to bear, overflowing out of the corner of
his lips obscenely.

You XiaoMo feels that he is quickly losing the ability to breathe. This
time it is for real. Not something he is doing on purpose.

When You XiaoMo can't take it any longer and is about to start
struggling, Ling Xiao suddenly stops his rather forceful kiss. Right
after, it seems that something cold crosses over from the other
mouth. Not waiting for him to react, that thing just slides down his
throat.

The ice cold feeling makes You XiaoMo shiver involuntarily. Just
when he wants to say something, the arm hugging him suddenly
tightens. That force sharply decreases the distance between him and
Ling Xiao. The bodies stick tightly together, almost making him feel
the other's scorching hot body temperature.

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Then his lips are sealed again. With no way of containing the flood of
saliva, the front of his clothes get completely soaked.

Ling Xiao's kiss is neither gentle nor lingering. He pushes and shoves
straight in much like his character, forceful and overbearing. Giving
You XiaoMo's tongue no choice but to dance together with his,
flirtatiously nibbling and sucking, the blazing hot temperature
scalding his lips until they are unbearably swollen and red.

The endless deep probing of the tongue makes him feel as if a hole is
going to be burned through his throat .......

You XiaoMo suddenly comes to his senses, using all his strength to
push him away. He only succeeds in moving his body a tiny bit but
luckily that is enough to let him gasp for breath. After calming down
his breathing, he realizes -_-|| that, who knows when, Ling Xiao
already untied his clothes and has both hands stroking inside.

One of the hands is on his chest while the other is at his abdomen,
touching here and there. Seeing that it is about to go further
downwards, You XiaoMo panics and quickly pulls his hands out and
pull his clothes close wanting to escape from his arms.

Just when he raises himself up, Ling Xiao holds him back down,
laughing ambiguously.

"Little brother. It can't be that you're thinking of running after taking

advantage of me ba?"

You XiaoMo, " ....... "

Bloody hell, who is actually the one being taken advantage of?
Clearly he is one that is being taken advantage of and yet he is not

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allowed to run?

Ling Xiao lifts the hair that is hanging down on his chest. He licks his
lips as if not having had his fill. He laughs softly saying, "Little
brother. The blood pact seed is already inside your mind. If Kong
Wen comes to find you, you can just swear the oath."

Alright then. Even though he was taken advantage of, at least the
most serious matter has been resolved.

That kiss, he'll just treat is as his payment. You XiaoMo is thinking
somewhat naively .......

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Chapter 100 - Magic Pill Formula

Three days later, Kong Wen as expected, sends someone to call him
over.

Because of his outstanding performance in the Hall of Mages, the

Elders of the Mage division all agree that he should be able to
practice that volume of alchemical techniques. Once he practices
those alchemical techniques, he will be a core disciple of TianXin
sect.

Swearing the oath takes place in front of Kong Wen and a few of the
Elders.

With the protection of the blood seed pact, You XiaoMo swears the
oath straightforwardly. He swears in front of the Elders that he will
forever be loyal to TianXin sect, and will not reveal the contents of
the alchemical techniques to anyone. The contents of the oath is
done by repeating after one of the Elders. It has always been like this
so they are not afraid that the oath taker will be able to take
advantage of some loophole.

After leaving the Hall of Mages, You XiaoMo follows Kong Wen to the
secret chamber.

In the secret chamber, Kong Wen passes on that volume of

alchemical techniques to him. Because it is a low grade alchemical
technique, the content is not much. Compared to the Heavenly Soul
Scroll that has over ten pages, this volume of low grade alchemical
techniques has not more than six pages.

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You XiaoMo reads it over once and stores it all in his memory. With
the increase in his power, he can now remember everything firmly
after reading it through just once. Much like the so-called
photographic memory. It's also because of this that he has read most
of the books in the first level of the library in the short span of half a
year.

"Master, I've decided what I want?"

After leaving the alchemical technique, You XiaoMo remembers that

he still hasn't made his request, so he simply brings it up before
leaving.

Kong Wen is not the least bit surprised, replying calmly, "As long as it
is within Master's abilities, you can ask for whatever you want."

Those words mean that if it is not within his abilities, the request will
become invalid or he would have to come up with another one.

You XiaoMo had guessed as much. Luckily his request is not

especially difficult, "Master, I ....... I want to go take a look at the
third level of the library's East pavilion."

Kong Wen immediately frowns, "What do you want to do on the

third level of the library?"

The third level of the library's East pavilion is considered a restricted

area. The books displayed inside have considerable value. Disciples
can't go inside without explicit authorization from the higher ups.
Even though You XiaoMo is a core disciple, he still isn't allowed
inside. With his current status, he can only go to the first and second
level.

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"Disciple heard that the third level of the East pavilion has formulas
for level four magic pills. So disciple wants to go take a look."

You XiaoMo steals a look at him.

Kong Wen is the head of Earth peak and a high level mage. He
doesn't need the permission of the Elders to enter the third level of
the library. He also has the right to allow his disciples to go to the
third level. He learned all these from asking Elder brother during
their last conversation.

Kong Wen clearly didn't expect him to make this request. After some
hesitation, he says, "You are now only a level two mage. The things
in the third level of the library are not things that someone at your
level can touch for now. Even if I let you go take a look, it is not of
much use to you."

"Disciple understands but disciple still wants to go have a look ....... "

You XiaoMo lowers his head and speaks softly.

This is also something he found out later. Having magic herbs and a
soul force doesn't mean that mages can refine a magic pill.

Because only a few magic herbs are required for low level magic pills,
it only takes a paltry five steps to form a magic pill. So a specific
formula is not needed. But this is not the case for level four and
above magic pills.

For example, a level four magic pill. It requires eight types of magic
herbs. Because each type has a different effect, if an error is made
while putting a few types together, the effect would be lost making
that magic pill worthless. So it is necessary to follow a formula when

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conducting the blending steps.

You XiaoMo had looked all over the second level of the library and he
still didn't find any formulas for level four to level six magic pills. So
he guessed that formulas for level four and up magic pills are not
things that are easily given out. That's why he wants to go look for
them on the third level.

But he still doesn't qualify to enter the third level at this moment, so
he makes this request of Kong Wen.

If he made this request before swearing the oath, Kong Wen would
absolutely not agree because level four and above magic pill
formulas are only passed on to core disciples. Now, he is only a little
suspicious.

"Since you are determined to go to the third level, Master will not
stop you. But you can only go in for two hours. You have to come out
after two hours without delay, understand?"

Kong Wen says.

"Disciple understands."

You XiaoMo immediately promises happily.

Then Kong Wen takes out a red tablet and hands it to him. His name
is written on the tablet. Using this tablet, he can enter the third level
of the library. But he can only enter the third level of the East
pavilion. The West pavilion can't be accessed with this tablet.

"This is a one time use tablet made by Master. It can be used to

enter the library only once. Once it's used, it will destroy itself

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automatically."

Because his Grand disciple and Second disciple are already level four
mages, they will occasionally go to the library. So Kong Wen already
prepared a few of these type of tablets. The tablets contain his soul
force. When it is destroyed, he would be able to sense it.

After receiving the tablet, You XiaoMo runs non-stop to the library.

After the assessment, he is no longer busy. He doesn't have much to

do these days so he simply heads to the library to take a look.

The library guard tosses him the level two tablet as usual. You
XiaoMo doesn't refuse because he can only go to the third level for
two hours. So he can while away the rest of his time on the second
level.

The third level of the East pavilion doesn't contain as many books as
the first and second level. But if these books were to be brought out,
there would most probably be a huge pile of people fighting and
snatching.

You XiaoMo takes a rough look. There are not just magic pill formulas
on the bookshelves. There are also dissertations from high level
mages for over several thousand years. Just the dissertations alone
are enough to fill three whole bookshelves. If it was not for the time
limit, he would hole up in the library for one or two months and read
every one of it.

Two hours passes by very quickly. You XiaoMo somewhat reluctantly

closes the book in his hand.

Level four to level six magic pill formulas. He uses his soul force to

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slowly carve them into his soul because normal memory is no use.

The person who wrote down these magic pill formulas seems to have
been very powerful. Each word seems to have some sort of charm.
After looking at them for a while, the mind would feel like it is in a
trance. In an instant, all the previous memories will be wiped out. A
very sinister move. Luckily Elder brother told him about his before so
this trip wouldn't be wasted.

After one and a half hours, he finally committed all the magic pill
formulas to memory. He spent the remaining half an hour on the
dissertations of a few high level mages. He wanted to find Uncle Ye's
dissertation of magic herb cultivation. Too bad he didn't find it even
after looking through all the bookshelves.

After leaving the library, as expected, the tablet changed into a puff
of flying ash on its own, just like what Kong Wen said.

You XiaoMo doesn't go to look for Kong Wen again. He runs back to
his room and takes out a brush, paper, and inkstone.

This is his first time using the soul force to memorize things so he
doesn't know how effective it is. He is worried that he would
suddenly forget it all one day so he decides to write out all the magic
formulas for now.

Three different levels of magic formulas. There are altogether several

tens of magic pill formulas. You XiaoMo is just about to start writing
when he realizes one fact .......

Damn it! He can't write using a brush .......

After a whole lot of mouth twitching, You XiaoMo only manages to

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write three crooked and shaky characters. The twenty first century is
a time of fountain pens and ball point pens. Brushes have long ago
been discarded into who knows which corner. You might not even be
able to find one person out of ten that can write using a brush.

After struggling for half a day, You XiaoMo finally realizes that he has
to start by practicing calligraphy. But where can find the spare time
for that now? After thinking it over for half a day, he still decides to
write the magic pill formulas down first. Although his calligraphy is
very much like earthworms crawling here and there, as long as it can
read, it should be good enough.

The sun that is hanging high above everyone's heads, after going
through a thousand trials and ten thousand tribulations, finally crawl
below the Western horizon.

The tightly closed door is pushed open from outside. A slender

shadow is cast from the fiery red sunset, making it look very long,
cast from the door into the room, falling on the chair .......

Ling Xiao walks in lightly and quietly. Turning around he sees You
XiaoMo asleep, sprawled on the table.

You XiaoMo is using one of his arms as a pillow. Saliva drips from the
corner of his mouth on the half written white piece of paper. Drop by
drop adding up to form a puddle of saliva.

Ling Xiao walks over and bends down to pick up a piece of paper that
had fallen to the floor. He turns it over and sees an impressive ten or
so crooked shaky characters. Usually, people can fit several hundred
characters on this sheet of paper and he can only fit ten or so. On top
of that, they are too horrible to look at.

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Ling Xiao lifts the corners of his mouth, and can't help letting out a
chuckle.

These characters, one look and you can tell that this is someone that
is just starting to learn how to write. Because of poor strength
control, some strokes are as thick as a baby's arm while others are
rather fine. Large and small all uneven, making them appear
extremely funny.

Ling Xiao picks up all the papers that have fallen on the floor. Taking
a closer look, he finds out that they are all level four magic pill
formulas. He can't help but frown. Why is he writing all these magic
formulas for no good reason?

"Oh ....... "

You XiaoMo moves his mouth while in dreamland. He unconsciously

turns over his face and continues sleeping.

The exposed side of his face, because it was slept on for almost half
an hour, is bright red. Like a huge pimple.

Ling Xiao stretches out his finger and pokes his nose. A slight smile
appears on his face, "Take advantage of you."

Note:
American time - spare time (supposedly it means you're able to do
the things you do during the day during the night when it is day time
in America)
__________________________________________________
I don't speak Chinese. Corrections welcomed.

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