novelraw Chapter 532 - 176: Lord Mu Requests Guidance! (First Update)
Chapter 532 - 176: Lord Mu Requests Guidance! (First Update)
"What grade of combat skills are they using? Why are they so powerful?"
"Judging by their might, they must not be lower than Earth Level!"
"Not lower than Earth Level? How could a Third-class Country have such high-grade combat skills?"
The Dragon Tooth Guards were shocked beyond belief, followed by the bewilderment of everyone present.
Jing Tian, about to take the stage, now found his back drenched in cold sweat. Suddenly, he hoped for Taishi Gao to lose. This way, he wouldn’t have to face the more terrifying Mu Qingge and wouldn’t be humiliated!
The astonishment in the room hadn’t yet subsided when Taishi Gao suddenly leaped up, extending his fierce claws towards Feng Yufei, shouting viciously, "I’ll kill you—!"
The unexpected turn of events left everyone in shock, and they quickly stood up.
Hei Mu was so startled that he jumped from his seat, raising his hand to stop him: "Young Sect Master, stop—!"
This was the palace of the Holy Yuan Empire, right under the Holy King’s eyes, in front of Emperor Yuan himself. Such a brazen violation of rules and direct attempt to kill would have dire consequences...
Hei Mu inhaled sharply at the thought, almost unable to fathom the audacity.
He tried to intervene, but in his rage, Taishi Gao wouldn’t listen!
Sitting high on the Dragon Chair, Emperor Yuan also had a darkened expression, shouting, "Stop him!"
As his voice fell, Huangfu Huan lunged forward, blue-purple light flickering in his palm, striking directly towards the back of Taishi Gao.
However, Taishi Gao seemed to have anticipated this; a flash of light from his waist, and his Spirit Beast roared out, directly withstanding Huangfu Huan’s attack.
With this shift, Taishi Gao had already reached Feng Yufei.
Taishi Gao’s cultivation had reached the Blue Realm, while Feng Yufei was still in the Green Realm.
If the two clashed, the outcome would be decided in one move!
Taishi Gao’s palm force was aimed directly at Feng Yufei’s heart, showing no mercy at all.
Feng Yufei’s eyes narrowed sharply; unable to dodge, she could only reluctantly engage.
Just then, she was suddenly swept aside by a palm force, avoiding Taishi Gao’s attack trajectory. Mu Qingge took her place where she had stood.
Facing Taishi Gao’s assault, Mu Qingge remained calm, her expression unflappable, as she slowly raised her right hand.
Seeing an unexpected change of opponent, Taishi Gao’s eyes glinted with a ruthless smile: "Just in time!"
As soon as he finished speaking, their hands collided.
A dull sound exploded suddenly, and the second-layer platform shook from the unseen shockwave.
"Poof—!" A silhouette spat blood skyward, flying backward.
The shocked onlookers focused and realized that it was Taishi Gao who had been punched away!
Where was Mu Qingge?
Turning their gaze, they saw Mu Qingge standing in the same spot, not having moved an inch. She flicked her sleeve forcefully, clasping her hands behind her back, her face cold and stunning.
"Young Sect Master!" Hei Mu exclaimed, flying over to catch Taishi Gao’s falling body.
"Cough, cough..." Taishi Gao coughed violently, spitting out a pool of blood that stained his clothes. His face turned purplish-red, veins popping out as he laboriously pointed his trembling finger at Mu Qingge, eyes full of venom, telling Hei Mu: "Great Elder, kill him, I order you to kill him—!"
"Young Sect Master, calm down!" Hei Mu pressed down Taishi Gao’s raised hand, whispering in his ear.
Then, hurriedly, he took out an elixir and fed it to Taishi Gao.
As the elixir entered his mouth, Taishi Gao’s vision went black, and he passed out.
Seeing him faint, Hei Mu actually felt relieved. Otherwise, he wouldn’t know how to handle the situation tonight!
"Bold Mu Qingge, how dare you injure the Young Sect Master of the Myriad Beasts Sect!" Lou Xuantie slammed the table, pointing at Mu Qingge with a fierce voice.
His face was filled with righteous indignation as if Mu Qingge were a bully who oppressed the weak.
Mu Qingge cast a cold and indifferent glance at him, saying calmly, "Does Dean Lou want to come up here and spar personally?"
"You! Arrogant junior!" Lou Xuantie was choked by Mu Qingge’s single remark.
Indeed, he wanted to take revenge personally, but now was certainly not the time.
Because the Emperor Yuan would never allow anyone to be injured in his presence again tonight.
"Enough!" The thunderous anger came from the Dragon Chair.
Emperor Yuan’s warning, laden with fury, brought everyone back from their shock, each returning to their seats.
"Taishi Gao first violated the rules, attacking others; he was in the wrong. Little Lord Mu acted out of a protective instinct and harmed Taishi Gao, which is understandable. Let’s put this matter to rest," said Emperor Yuan, settling the matter with his words.
Huangfu Huan returned to his place, and Taishi Gao was carried out of the palace by Hei Mu.
The bloodstains in the palace were quickly cleaned by eunuchs and palace maids, leaving no trace of the smell of blood.
The combat ability demonstrated by Mu Qingge, along with the two previous stunning matches, had given countless people a new understanding of the Third-class Country, of Mu Qingge, of Zhao Nanxing, and of Feng Yufei.
The head of the Jing Family said solemnly to Jing Tian: "Tian’er, what kind of enmity do you have with this Little Lord Mu? If it is not a life-or-death feud, resolve it if possible. This boy is extraordinary!" With that, he slowly closed his eyes.
Jing Tian’s face turned ashen, his eyes filled with blood as he looked at Mu Qingge, having long lost his former spirit.
He never expected that Mu Qingge would be so formidable.
Wasn’t he supposed to be only outstanding in alchemy talent? How could he knock the Young Sect Master of the Myriad Beasts Sect into vomiting blood with one punch? As far as Jing Tian knew, Taishi Gao’s spiritual power cultivation was slightly higher than his own. If he were to face Mu Qingge, wouldn’t the result be even more disastrous?
Fear crept into his eyes; Mu Qingge seemed no longer a mortal enemy but the source of his dread, an insurmountable mountain.
His father’s words seemed to reach him, yet not, as he repeatedly recalled the scene of Taishi Gao being punched away by Mu Qingge.
"Mother, this Little Lord Mu is so powerful; he is certainly not someone who will remain obscure," said a charming woman, covering her lips, to the head of the Hua Family in their seats.
The Hua Family head gave her a meaningful smile, "What? Taken an interest in him?"
Having her thoughts directly pointed out by her mother, she did not shy away; instead, she nodded and couldn’t help but look at Mu Qingge with eyes full of affection.
Feng Yufei returned to Mu Qingge’s side, calmly saying, "Thank you, Little Lord."
Mu Qingge nodded imperceptibly, asking quietly, "Are you alright?"
Feng Yufei shook her head, biting her lip, "Thanks to Little Lord’s timely intervention, otherwise..." Otherwise, there was no need for her to speak further.
The incident came swiftly and resolved just as quickly.
Five Dragon Tooth Guards immediately gathered around Mu Qingge, their eyes vigilantly scanning the surroundings.
Mu Qingge raised his chin, addressing Emperor Yuan: "Emperor Yuan, who do you think won this round?"
"Naturally, it counts as your win. Taishi Gao violated the rules first; the moment he attacked, he had already lost," Emperor Yuan’s voice descended from the Dragon Chair.
Mu Qingge’s lips curled slightly, "If that’s the case, with two wins in three rounds, is there any need for a third round?" With that, his gaze slid to Jing Tian.
The latter shivered under her gaze.
"Two wins in three rounds naturally means there’s no need for a third match," Huangfu Huan interjected to ease the situation.
Whether it was for the Jing Family or Mu Qingge, it was hard to tell.
"Hahaha... tonight is a welcoming banquet; there’s really no need for all this fighting and killing. Let’s enjoy the song and dance instead," laughed Emperor Yuan.
Mu Qingge’s eyes narrowed slightly, thinking: ’If you want to fight, you fight. Now that you don’t want to fight, you’re done? Since it’s a competition, there should be some prize for the winner.’
It seemed as though the Emperor Yuan had guessed her thoughts, for his voice rang out again: "Since... Young Lord Mu and the others won, naturally there should be a reward. As the host, I will grant ten thousand advanced beast cores and a hundred volumes of combat skills. Young Lord Mu, don’t think it’s too little, for I am quite poor myself."
Too little? Not for her!
Mu Qingge’s eyes brightened, and the curve of her smile deepened.
Over ten thousand advanced beast cores, that amount could buy several cities. Not to mention a hundred volumes of combat skills. Although she didn’t need combat skills much, Zhao Nanxing and Feng Yufei needed them, and Qin Jinchen probably wouldn’t think too many either.
"Thank you, Emperor Yuan!" Mu Qingge accepted with pleasure.
"Thank you, Emperor Yuan!"
"Thank you, Emperor Yuan!"
Zhao Nanxing and Feng Yufei also expressed their gratitude one after the other.
"Since His Majesty the Emperor has spoken, let me add to the prize. Our Hua Family doesn’t have many treasures, but we’re famous for our women and fine wine. As for the women, it’s up to their own wishes, and I cannot force them as the head of the family. However, for the fine wine, I can make the decision. I will add a thousand jars of fine wine to His Majesty’s prize."
"Oh! The Hua Family’s fine wine is worth more than gold outside!" someone exclaimed at the table.
The head of the Shen Family also spoke up: "Our Shen Family has nothing but money. It seems we can only offer some vulgar items." Implying he would add gold and silver to the Emperor Yuan’s reward.
Among the four major families of Tiandu, the Hua Family and the Shen Family had already made their stance. The Lan Family and the Jing Family had no choice but to follow.
The Lan Family was rather casual, only adding a pair of Blood Jade Ruyi.
As for the Jing Family, the head spoke generously, but it wasn’t something Mu Qingge coveted. She didn’t intend to take these rare and exotic treasures either.
With expressions from both Emperor Yuan and the four major families, the remaining factions became awkward.
The old man from the Medicine Tower laughed first: "Everyone is so enthusiastic, I might as well join the fun. At our Medicine Tower, although we don’t have other things, we do have plenty of Pill Masters. Moreover, the Medicine Tower Branch belongs to Yu Country, and Young Lord Mu is also an Elder of our Medicine Tower, while Prince Zhao is a student of the branch... How about this, I’ll return and pick ten advanced pill masters to send to the Medicine Tower Branch and help refine elixirs for the countries of the Third-class Country."
Hiss—!
What a grand gesture! This is what you call a grand gesture!
Before Mu Qingge made a sudden rise, the number of advanced alchemists at the Medicine Tower Branch was just miserably three, which could be counted on one hand.
The gesture from the Medicine Tower old man was more important than any amount of gold and silver treasures!
Zhao Nanxing and Feng Yufei were overjoyed and hurriedly clasped their fists in salute to the Medicine Tower elder, saying in unison: "Thank you, Director!"
The Medicine Tower old man waved it off carelessly, then looked at Lou Xuantie of the Refining Tower with a smile: "Director Lou, you, the Refining Tower, and our Medicine Tower, along with the Myriad Beasts Sect, are collectively known as the Two Towers and One Sect. It’s fine that old Hei Mu ran off. Since you’re still here, since our Medicine Tower has been so generous, shouldn’t the Refining Tower show some gesture as well?"
Mu Qingge almost laughed out loud upon hearing this.
She knew that cunning old man wouldn’t be so inexplicably generous to send ten advanced alchemists to the Third-class Country? Turns out, he was waiting to corner Lou Xuantie here.
The generosity of the Medicine Tower old man, on the surface, seemed fine.
But upon careful thought, it could be seen that the old man didn’t actually lose much. Even if these advanced alchemists were sent over, they would still belong to the Medicine Tower Branch, still people of the Medicine Tower.
Refining elixirs for the Third-class Country, isn’t that just empty talk?
Alchemists refine elixirs regardless of for whom; if the elixirs aren’t consumed by someone, then who else?
Of course, it can’t be said that Medicine Tower old man issued an empty check. After all, sending ten advanced alchemists significantly strengthens the Third-class Country’s overall power.
Following this, he also used this to force Lou Xuantie to offer a reward. Lou Xuantie, who loathed Mu Qingge to death, how could he willingly reward Mu Qingge?
Unfortunately, the Refining Tower’s personal grudge with Mu Qingge couldn’t be laid out here. This feud began with the struggle over the Mixed Element Heavenly Extreme Flame. Mu Qingge snatched it, battles erupted between them, with losses on both sides, and who could still discern right from wrong?
If able, Lou Xuantie would kill Mu Qingge here, and nobody would speak against it.
Without this certainty, he could only hold it in, swallowing as much hatred as he had.
"... If that’s the case, my Refining Tower will contribute ten spiritual artifacts to add luster to Emperor Yuan." Lou Xuantie struggled internally for a long time before reluctantly speaking.
Only ten?
Mu Qingge curled her lip in disdain.
"Only ten? I say, as the head of the Refining Tower, how can you be so miserly? Too stingy!" Fortunately, the Medicine Tower elder stood up for her.
After he finished speaking, Mu Qingge almost applauded enthusiastically.
Seeing Lou Xuantie’s face turn blue with anger, Mu Qingge felt immensely pleased.
"I’ll add another ten, is that enough?" Lou Xuantie felt extremely embarrassed by the Medicine Tower Director’s teasing, and could only brace himself.
"That’s only twenty, with so many third-class countries, how much can each receive? Add more, add more," the Medicine Tower Director still looked displeased.
"You!" Lou Xuantie clenched his fist tightly at his sleeve. The disciples behind him from the Refining Tower also showed a look of resentment.
After taking a few deep breaths, Lou Xuantie forced himself to calm his inner anger and said in a deep voice, "At most twenty-five pieces, no more!"
The Director saw that it was time to stop and grinned at Lou Xuantie, then continued drinking as if he hadn’t been bargaining with him at all.
This whole additional gift made the heavy gift list dazzling to the eye.
Yet Mu Qingge lightly shifted her gaze to the Rong Country envoy. They were the ones who proposed this contest, and now having lost, pretending nothing happened might not look good.
The Rong Country delegation’s face turned red and white under Mu Qingge’s gaze.
Her blatant implication, who didn’t understand?
But they were unwilling!
Rong Country was at a stalemate, and the countries they dragged down with them, Di Country and Yu Country, were also inexplicably awkward.
Indeed, they were somewhat unhappy with Emperor Yuan’s emphasis on Mu Qingge’s stance. If Mu Qingge made a fool of herself, they would be happy to watch.
But the problem was, they hadn’t done anything yet, nor had plans to do anything. Are they just taking the blame like this?
Thinking of this, representatives from Di Country and Yu Country silently cursed the Rong delegation as ’useless teammates!’
Suddenly, someone stood up from Yu Country’s seat.
Mu Qingge looked up and found that it was Xue Qiao’s elder brother, hailed as Yu Country’s genius, who had just been promoted to the position of civil minister, Xue Qiong.
Xue Qiong was indeed elegant and handsome. Initially, when he sat among the seats, he didn’t stand out. Now standing up, his slender figure instantly attracted the attention of those at the Hua Family seats.
Facing the scrutiny from the young ladies, he showed no trace of shyness.
Instead, he gracefully saluted Emperor Yuan and then turned to Mu Qingge with a refined smile, saying, "Our Yu Country also wishes to add some gifts. Rare treasures, gold and silver wealth, beast core martial techniques, and spiritual artifacts are all prepared. Just recently, Wanshou Tomb sent a batch of tamed spirit beasts to Yu Country Palace. If Young Lord Mu doesn’t mind, I’m willing to be the owner and transfer half of them to Qin Country."
He specifically mentioned Qin Country rather than the third-class countries, clearly directing it toward Mu Qingge.
As for the Myriad Beasts Sect sending spirit beasts to Yu Country, it was normal because the Myriad Beasts Sect was located at the border between Yu Country and Rong Country. The spirit beasts they captured were in Yu Country and Rong Country’s territories. Therefore, the three parties had an agreement where the Myriad Beasts Sect would send a batch of tamed spirit beasts to the two countries every period to maintain a balance.
Xue Qiong did not mention the specific number of spirit beasts, but as Mu Qingge guessed, since he had spoken, it wouldn’t be few.
"Thank you, Prime Minister Xue." Mu Qingge nodded.
Xue Qiong slightly smiled at her and returned to his seat.
Yu Country had expressed their stance, and now Di Country’s envoy stood up. Speaking of which, Di Country’s border neighbored Qin Country, with only Qinling separating them.
The two old neighbors met here at Holy Yuan Empire.
The Di Country envoy let out a bitter smile and clasped his fist toward Mu Qingge, saying, "Young Lord Mu, your reputation in Qin Country has reached me even in Di Country. Various deeds have earned my admiration. But although Di Country is a second-class power, due to territorial limitations, from His Majesty to the citizens, everyone lives frugally, using whatever material is saved for military preparedness. Di Country really does not know what extra gift to add. How about this, I can represent our emperor and sign an agreement with the young lord, within a hundred years, if anyone dares to invade Qin Country, Di Country’s cavalry will certainly cross Qinling and fight for Qin Country!"
His tone was very sincere, with no pretense.
Although this promise is somewhat indistinct, given Mu Qingge’s current reputation, ensuring a century of peace for Qin Country isn’t a major issue either. Still, Mu Qingge nodded.
"Very well! I sincerely thank the general and the Emperor of Di Country." Mu Qingge expressed gratitude with military courtesy.
The entire nation of Di Country is armed, always ready to resist the beast tides’ attacks. This envoy exudes a bloodthirsty aura, which appeals to Mu Qingge.
Everything that should be said, and shouldn’t be said, has been said.
Now, only Rong Country, which was stirring trouble, remains.
Not only Mu Qingge, but even Emperor Yuan looked at him.
It seemed as if they were silently saying with their eyes, "As the one who proposed this, after losing, shouldn’t you make some gesture? Aren’t you ashamed?"
The Rong Country envoy felt extremely embarrassed under their gaze and simply said resentfully, "Tell me what you want. As long as it’s within my power, it’s yours."
That stiff-necked appearance suggested that if Mu Qingge pressed him further, he might hang himself in desperation.
What to ask from Rong Country?
Mu Qingge carefully searched her mind and found there really wasn’t anything she needed. Before setting out, she had received intelligence that her bounty in Rong Country had been lifted.
So now, what could she possibly demand from Rong Country?
This question troubled not only the Rong Country envoy but also Mu Qingge.
’Alas, asking things from others is so difficult!’
Suddenly, Feng Yufei’s eyes flashed, and he walked over to Mu Qingge, whispered a few words in her ear, and then stepped back.
Immediately, Mu Qingge’s eyes lit up, and she smiled broadly, "In that case, why not grant us a year’s tax revenue from Rong Country? After all, our third-class country is too impoverished."
A year’s tax revenue from Rong Country, how much is that?
With this income, what changes would it bring to the third-class country border? Most importantly, if the Rong Country envoy returned and their emperor found out he lost a year’s tax revenue, what would become of him?
"What? A year’s tax revenue! Do you know how much Rong Country’s annual tax revenue is? How could you ask for such a thing! Moreover, I have no authority to decide this." The Rong Country envoy immediately retorted.
Mu Qingge, however, tilted her head, eyes curving into crescents, and said, "This is all I want. If you can’t make the decision, you can ask your emperor. Either hand over a year’s tax revenue or withdraw from this Linchuan Conference."
Withdraw from the Linchuan Conference?
That’s even more impossible!
The Rong Country envoy grit his teeth and glared at Mu Qingge.
Huangfu Huan suddenly nodded and said, "That’s a good idea. If you’re not willing to part with the tax revenue, then withdraw from the competition. It would also reduce some bloodshed. Father, what do you think?"
Emperor Yuan also nodded and said, "Hmm, so be it. Rong Country envoy, send a letter to your emperor. I will dispatch someone to deliver it, and we will ensure your emperor’s reply arrives by the time the Linchuan Conference commences."
This father and son duo decided the matter between them. The Rong Country envoy wished to die; sending this letter, wouldn’t the Rong Country emperor want his head?
However, he couldn’t refute an emperor from a first-class country like Emperor Yuan.
The favoritism Huangfu Huan and Emperor Yuan showed towards Mu Qingge surprised many, leaving them wondering why. But Mu Qingge was clear in her heart; it was all because of that person—Si Mo!
Si Mo’s ability to walk through the Linchuan Realm with the status of Holy King of the Holy Yuan Empire could only mean his close ties with the Huangfu family.
The banquet lasted until the latter part of the night; everyone departed one by one after enjoying themselves.
And Emperor Yuan had already left before the late night, leaving the banquet in the hands of Crown Prince Huangfu Huan.
When the gathering ended, the bustling palace finally quieted down.
Just as Mu Qingge and others were about to leave, Huangfu Huan suddenly approached from behind, calling out to her, "Lord Mu, would you stop for a moment?"
Mu Qingge turned to look at him; even if he hadn’t sought her out, she would have met him privately.
Thus, she nodded and signaled Zhao Nanxing and Feng Yufei to go back first.
Jiang Li curiously glanced between Mu Qingge and Huangfu Huan, softly asking her, "What’s your relationship? Could it be..."
"Don’t overthink it. This is our first meeting. You should head back too." With a simple remark, Mu Qingge sent Jiang Li off.
Their accommodations at the post house weren’t in the same area, but the path away from the Imperial Palace was the same.
After Jiang Li reluctantly left, Huangfu Huan came in front of Mu Qingge, extended his hand, and invited, "Lord Mu, please."
Mu Qingge nodded and followed Huangfu Huan towards the nearby Imperial Garden.
...
At this time, as the sky began to brighten, the palace maids had extinguished most of the palace lanterns, leaving a few dimly flickering among the flowers.
Huangfu Huan led Mu Qingge to a waterside pavilion.
This pavilion was constructed amidst the lake, connected by a winding bridge to the shore. In the lake, the reflections glimmered, creating an almost seamless blend between water and sky.
On the round table in the pavilion were a few plates of exquisite pastries and fruits, along with a pot of hangover tea.
Mu Qingge glanced over these items and thought to herself, ’It seems Huangfu Huan has prepared well.’
"Lord Mu, please sit." Huangfu Huan pointed to one of the stools and smiled at Mu Qingge.
Mu Qingge lifted her gaze to him, similarly courteous, "Crown Prince, you are too gracious." Saying so, she sat as Huangfu Huan had indicated.
Huangfu Huan poured her a cup of hot tea and then said, "I know you have a lot you wish to ask me, Lord Mu. And I, too, have many questions for you."
Mu Qingge laughed, "I enjoy talking to smart people, and you, Crown Prince, belong to that category."
Huangfu Huan’s smile remained as he slowly said, "To show sincerity, ask away, Lord Mu. Whatever I know, I will not withhold."
"In that case, I won’t hold back." Mu Qingge smiled.
Withdrawing her smile, her expression turned slightly cold, "Has the Crown Prince heard of my name from the Holy King?"
"Indeed." Huangfu Huan nodded.
Mu Qingge’s eyes contracted, and she asked again, "How did he mention me to you?"
This sentence contained several questions.
First, under what circumstances did Si Mo mention her?
Second, what did Si Mo say about her?
Third, what was Si Mo’s intention in mentioning her to Huangfu Huan?
That old monster, his intellect was nearly monstrous; she would never believe he would do anything unnecessary.
The man in front of her, Huangfu Huan, was also smart, and she did not believe he couldn’t understand the true meaning behind her question.
Huangfu Huan smiled, picked up the teacup in front of him, sipped lightly, and set it down. "Everyone under heaven knows the character ’Huan’ was bestowed upon me by the Holy King. I am, in fact, the only one in a thousand years within the Imperial Family to receive such an honor. But actually, the rumors and the truth differ somewhat."
Mu Qingge hadn’t expected Huangfu Huan to respond directly but to speak about himself.
Of course, she couldn’t determine Huangfu Huan’s intent in suddenly sharing this story, so she remained silent and listened.
"When I was born, following palace tradition, my father held me and went to the Li Palace to meet the Holy King, seeking a blessed name for me. My father said that the Holy King was practicing calligraphy at the time. Upon hearing my father’s request, he said nothing, not showing interest in bestowing a name just as he did with my other elder brothers. My father knelt and waited for a long time, and it seems I too sensed that the Li Palace was not a place for crying, as I didn’t cry at all. Later, after the Holy King finished practicing calligraphy, he left without a word. Puzzled, my father stood up in disappointment. But then he saw the character ’Huan’ written on the Holy King’s writing table. Thus, I was named." After Huangfu Huan finished, he could only shake his head and smile bitterly, "Is the character ’Huan’ truly the name given by the Holy King? Only the Holy King would know. Yet, because of this, I became the Crown Prince of the Holy Yuan Empire, my position unshakable."
So that’s how it is!
Mu Qingge speculated in her heart: ’Could it be that the character ’Huan’ was just one the old monster happened to write?’ From her understanding of Si Mo, if the man genuinely wanted to grant a name, he would never be so secretive.
Of course, she would never say that guess out loud.
And Huangfu Huan didn’t want her help in analyzing it either. He continued, "Since then, my father believed that the Holy King looked upon me favorably and often made excuses to send me to the Li Palace to keep the Holy King company. To outsiders, this seemed like another gift of honor from the heavens."
Sending a little child to accompany Si Mo?
Mu Qingge truly admired Emperor Yuan’s courage. Wasn’t he afraid his son might be slapped to death by Si Mo?
Judging from Huangfu Huan’s tone, his days at the Li Palace probably weren’t pleasant either.
Indeed, Huangfu Huan smiled bitterly and said, "In fact, during my time at the Li Palace, I only saw the Holy King three times in over twenty years. The first two times were mere fleeting glimpses. Only the third time did the Holy King specifically summon me."
After speaking, Huangfu Huan looked at Mu Qingge.
Mu Qingge blinked, feeling as if Huangfu Huan’s gaze was telling her that Si Mo’s summoning him was related to her?
"That’s right, it’s because of you," Huangfu Huan nodded affirmatively.
Seeing the astonished look on Mu Qingge’s face, Huangfu Huan smiled helplessly and said, "When I found out, I was as surprised as you. My father hoped the Holy King would take me as his disciple; that was the main reason he frequently sent me to the Li Palace. But I never got the opportunity. When the Holy King summoned me, I thought that my heartfelt persistence over the past twenty years had finally moved him to accept me as his disciple. But to my surprise, the first thing that immensely powerful man, feared even by the Heavenly Gods, said to me was, ’Mu Qingge from Qin Country is coming to the Holy Yuan Empire; don’t let her be bullied.’ That was the first and only thing he said."
...Don’t let her be bullied...
Unexpectedly, a kind of warm feeling of being firmly protected rose in Mu Qingge’s heart. So, even if this man didn’t appear by her side, he was concerned for her and shielded her well.
Mu Qingge’s eyes showed a hint of daze and warmth.
However, immersed in his own emotions, Huangfu Huan didn’t notice. He continued, "After coming down from the Li Palace, I conveyed those words to my father. We quickly gathered information about you and also found out that, while in Qin Country, the Holy King favored you greatly. Before meeting you, I felt a bit unconvinced, wondering why the Holy King cherished you so much. Wasn’t the Crown Prince of our Holy Yuan Empire better than a little lord from a Third-class Country? However, after tonight, I am convinced of you."
Huangfu Huan used tea in place of wine to toast Mu Qingge.
Mu Qingge distractedly raised her tea and took a sip, immediately sobering up, and asked, "Do you think the Holy King wants to take me as a disciple?"
Huangfu Huan nodded without any concealment, "I can’t think of any other reason."
Mu Qingge’s mouth twitched, and she raised her teacup to take another sip, hiding the awkwardness on her face. ’Alright, a misunderstanding is just a misunderstanding.’
"As far as I know, the Holy King has never taken disciples. Now, with his high regard for you, you might not be able to remain ordinary in the future. So, today, consider it a good connection between us, lest I miss the chance to hold onto a powerful influence," Huangfu Huan joked lightly.
Mu Qingge gave a sheepish smile and looked up at him, "I’ve asked what I wanted to know. What is it that you want to ask me?"
Huangfu Huan was silent for a moment before seriously saying, "I’d like to ask you a favor."
"What is it?" Mu Qingge asked.
"If you see the Holy King, I’d like you to ask him if Huan might have the fortune to become his disciple," Huangfu Huan made his request.
Mu Qingge’s eyes narrowed slightly, and she spoke with a half-smile, "Have you ever asked yourself if you want to be his disciple because of your father’s expectations or because you truly desire it?"
Huangfu Huan was stunned, seemingly stumped by Mu Qingge’s question.
Just when Mu Qingge thought he would remain silent for a long time before answering, he suddenly spoke, "I used to think it was because I didn’t want to disappoint my father and wanted to live up to the honor I bear. But when I truly saw the Holy King, I suddenly realized I wanted to become as strong as him. That’s why I need the Holy King’s guidance. If I could become his disciple, I would give up my position as Crown Prince, devote myself to cultivation, and continuously grow stronger!"
"What if he doesn’t take you as a disciple?" Mu Qingge asked again.
This time, Huangfu Huan was silent.
And he was silent for a long time.
Not until the pale light of dawn appeared did he finally lift his eyes to look at Mu Qingge.
Those eyes were very calm, "If there’s no master-disciple fate, then I will peacefully remain the Crown Prince and ensure the good governance of the Holy Yuan Empire. Naturally, I won’t give up on the path to becoming strong. When there’s a suitable successor, I’ll leave and seek it on my own."
Huangfu Huan’s words were ordinary, without fervor or excitement. Yet Mu Qingge could feel his unwavering heart that yearned to become strong.
Everyone has different pursuits; power is not the sole pursuit.
Huangfu Huan’s indifferent attitude towards power might be the foundation of why he and Mu Qingge would not become enemies.
"Alright, I remember it. If I have the chance to see him, I will help you find out." Mu Qingge gave her promise.
"Thank you!" Huangfu Huan did not notice Mu Qingge’s choice of words, as she did not show the respect towards Si Mo they did. He only remembered that Mu Qingge agreed to help him.
"The problem is, how can I see him?" Mu Qingge squinted her eyes, raised her hand, and rubbed her chin as she asked.
Her purpose for coming to the Holy Yuan Empire, besides the Linchuan Conference, was to find Si Mo and clarify the issues between them. However, upon arriving in the Holy Yuan Empire, she realized she had no idea where Si Mo was.
She only knew that his residence was called Li Palace, but where Li Palace was, or how to meet him, whether he was in the Holy Yuan Empire or not... everything was unknown to her.
"You don’t have to worry about that. The Linchuan Conference is a major event throughout Linchuan, and the Holy King will be stationed in Tiandu during this period. And as for his Li Palace, a few days later, Father will lead everyone to pay him a visit. However... whether you can meet the Holy King is another matter." Huangfu Huan replied.
"But with you here this time, the Holy King, valuing you so much, might make an appearance." Huangfu Huan added.
"That’s not certain." Mu Qingge murmured.
This guy still had a bit of arrogance.
Previously, she had put him through so much, and now that she was on his turf, who knew how he might handle her!
"In any case, even if we don’t see the Holy King at Li Palace, after the Linchuan Conference ends, the Holy King will appear and lead us to the Ancient Ruins, so there will definitely be a chance to meet him." Huangfu Huan provided another piece of information.
Mu Qingge almost bit her tongue, "He’s taking us to the Ancient Ruins?"
Huangfu Huan nodded as a matter of course, "Of course. Only he can locate the position of the Ancient Ruins and open its entrance."
Mu Qingge felt a bit confused as she listened; she had never thought Si Mo had such a sense of mission for Linchuan Continent.
It seems his title of Holy King is not for nothing; he should indeed do something for Linchuan Realm!
Just as Mu Qingge was dazed, a sharp aura suddenly struck from mid-air, slashing directly towards her.
Mu Qingge awoke with a start, swiftly sidestepping and successfully avoiding the attack, though the pavilion she and Huangfu Huan were in was cut in half.
Huangfu Huan grabbed her shoulder and led her to the shore, shielding her in front of him.
"Shen Bicheng, what are you doing!" Huangfu Huan exclaimed angrily towards the lake.
Mu Qingge shifted her step slightly, her gaze falling on the lake, only to see a man descend from the sky and land on the water’s surface.
His tall and slender figure, with chiseled and indifferent features, showed no excess expression. In his eyes, Huangfu Huan seemed to not exist at all; he only stared at Mu Qingge behind him.
’Shen Bicheng? The genius from the Shen Family, also a madman?’ Mu Qingge deduced the person’s identity from Huangfu Huan’s words.
Daring to make a move in the Imperial Palace of the Holy Yuan Empire, regardless of the Crown Prince’s presence, he was indeed a lunatic.
"I want to challenge him!" Shen Bicheng raised his hand, pointing at Mu Qingge.
Challenge me?
Mu Qingge raised an eyebrow in surprise.
Huangfu Huan, however, had no intention of backing down, speaking sternly to Shen Bicheng, "Don’t be reckless, who is Mu Little Lord? You can’t just challenge him whenever you like."
Finished speaking, he whispered to Mu Qingge, "It must be the people from the Shen Family who exaggerated things when they returned, causing this lunatic to come and find trouble. Rest assured, unless you agree, he can’t do as he pleases."
Mu Qingge smiled, "I truly don’t want to fight a nonsensical battle, but if it’s the Shen’s madman, I am actually curious to see what he’s got."
Then, she looked at Huangfu Huan with amusement, "Your Highness, if we wreck your Imperial Garden, do we need to compensate?"
Huangfu Huan, both furious and amused, glanced towards Shen Bicheng, "Don’t worry, the Shen Family has plenty of money," yet uneasily asked, "Are you sure you want to compete with him?"
Mu Qingge smiled, her figure disappearing from Huangfu Huan’s sight.
Huangfu Huan had just turned around when he heard the sound of intense combat ringing from the lake...