Chapter 46

Chapter 46

Upon seeing Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao, Wang Xiuyuan had just greeted them when he suddenly noticed something and exclaimed, "Ning Young Master has advanced in cultivation?"

Ning Yuzhou modestly replied, "I was in seclusion these few days and managed to advance by chance."

Wen Qiao shot him a sidelong glance. If not for witnessing him casually break through, she would have thought his cultivation journey was arduous.

In the Holy Martial Continent, those beneath the Primordial Martial Realm were considered low-level cultivators. There were a vast number of cultivators at this level, and even those with poor aptitude might remain stuck there for their entire lives, with a lifespan of merely two hundred years. Only upon successfully advancing to the Primordial Martial Realm could one truly embark on the path of cultivation and become an extraordinary cultivator who defies the heavens and contends with nature.

The mere Yuanming Realm was insignificant and wouldn't attract much attention. In the eyes of the major sects in the Central Continent, a cultivator at the Yuanming Realm was hardly worth considering. However, Wang Xiuyuan valued Ning Yuzhou's alchemy talent and took every level advancement seriously.

Unable to contain his curiosity, Wang Xiuyuan asked, "I wonder what level of spirit pills can Ning Young Master refine now?"

Ning Yuzhou remained humble, replying, "I've dabbled a bit in the Profound Rank. If I'm lucky, I might occasionally manage to refine a few batches."

Wang Xiuyuan was initially startled, but then couldn't help feeling overjoyed.

There was no such thing as luck in alchemy. While many alchemists occasionally surpassed their own capabilities and refined spirit pills beyond their cultivation level, these instances were rare.

Wang Xiuyuan believed he had a keen eye for people. Although Ning Yuzhou spoke humbly, it was clear that the pride of this genius alchemist ran deep within him. It was a common ailment among alchemists, a testament to their confidence in their alchemy skills.

He dared to make such a claim, which meant he must be capable of refining Mystic Rank pills. While Wang Xiuyuan was unsure of the exact grade, he shouldn't forget that Ning Yuzhou was only at the Yuanming Realm.

Typically, alchemists who could refine Mystic Rank pills were at the Primordial Martial Realm or above. Very few could achieve this at the Yuanming Realm due to insufficient Primordial Spirit Energy in their Spirit Orifices to support the refinement process.

Ning Yuzhou's talent could be classified as monstrous.

With an intense gaze, Wang Xiuyuan looked at Ning Yuzhou but quickly regained his composure, remembering the reason for his visit. He smiled and said, "I congratulate you, Young Master Ning, on your significant improvement in cultivation. You've been quite the talk of the town lately; I hear many are seeking you out for your alchemy services."

A puzzled expression appeared on Ning Yuzhou's face. "May I ask what you mean, Young Master Wang?"

"Didn't Young Master Ning sell a batch of spirit pills at Cloudherald Pill Shop a few days ago...?"

Wen Qiao, holding Wen Tuttu, sat by the side. She quickly grasped the situation from Wang Xiuyuan's words.

It turned out that the shopkeeper had already sold over ten top-grade spirit pills from their previous transaction at a high price. Despite being low-ranking Yellow Rank pills, their supreme quality ensured they wouldn't remain unsold. In fact, one could say that any appearance of supreme-grade pills in the market would spark a fierce competition among cultivators.

Supreme-grade pills didn't accumulate pill toxins in the body and offered immediate effects. They were essentially life-saving items. Even if they were expensive, people would grit their teeth and buy them.

The Cloudherald Pill Shop had recently gained immense popularity for its superior-grade pills, outshining other pill shops and attracting countless cultivators eager to learn the identity of the alchemist who crafted them.

The shopkeeper naturally wished to keep this information under wraps. However, Ning Yuzhou hadn't been particularly discreet when selling his pills, and news soon spread to those with vested interests. Fortunately, Ning Yuzhou's current residence was rather secluded, and the pill-seeking cultivators hadn't yet found their way there; otherwise, tranquility would be hard to come by.

Wang Xiuyuan said, "I must admit, I'm quite astonished that Young Master Ning can already produce superior-grade pills at such a young age. Many are now seeking your services, and it won't be long before your location is discovered. Have you considered relocating?"

Ning Yuzhou fell silent, not responding to Wang Xiuyuan's suggestion.

Wang Xiuyuan's meaning was clear. While alchemists were highly respected and held esteemed positions, an alchemist without influential backing could provoke malicious intentions in some cultivators. They might force the alchemist to join their faction, exploiting them as a tool for pill refinement or suppressing their potential...

This had happened before, leading to the formation of the Pill Alliance to protect alchemists' interests, given the significant impact of such incidents.

In Wang Xiuyuan's eyes, Ning Yuzhou hailed from the distant and perilous Southern Abyss Marshlands, known for its swamps, miasma, and ruthless inhabitants. Only small factions and families eked out a living there.

Ning Yuzhou was likely an alchemist nurtured by one of these Southern Abyss factions.

Unfortunately, he seemed somewhat naive. Despite having a group of guards, their cultivation levels were not overly impressive, negligible by Central Continent standards.

If Ning Yuzhou were wise, he'd promptly align himself with a powerful faction for protection, enabling him to flourish as an alchemist no one dared to provoke.

What organization could surpass the Alchemy Alliance?

Alchemists should unite; only the Alchemy Alliance could better protect their interests.

Anqiu City, where the Wang family resided, was one of the Five Cities of the Alchemy Alliance. The Wang family held a considerable position within the alliance. If Ning Yuzhou were willing to join Anqiu City and receive the alliance's protection, who would dare to touch him?

Wang Xiuyuan had come today with the intention of fostering a closer relationship with Ning Yuzhou. He would first shield Ning from any ill-intentioned factions, providing him with an undisturbed residence. As their rapport deepened, wouldn't there be ample opportunities in the future to persuade Ning to join the Wang family?

After a moment's contemplation, Ning Yuzhou expressed his apologies. "Young Master Wang, may I have some time to consider? I'll give you my answer tomorrow."

Wang Xiuyuan smiled slightly. Although he wished for an immediate response, he maintained his courteous demeanor, replying with a gentle smile, "Of course, but I still hope that Young Master Ning can decide as soon as possible. I've heard that several factions are already searching for information about you. They will find you sooner or later."

"Thank you, Young Master Wang. I understand."

They continued chatting for a while before Wang Xiuyuan took his leave.

After Wang Xiuyuan left, Ning Yuzhou summoned Qian Shou and asked about any recent news in Cangwu Town.

Qian Shou reported, "Young Master, the Cloudcome Herb Shop has been selling the spirit pills you refined, and they were snatched up quickly. People have started inquiring about you. Apart from seeking your pills, some are also looking for you to treat their ailments..."

Ning Yuzhou listened and then asked, "Someone wants me to heal them? Do you have any idea who it is?"

Qian Shou shook his head. "The person has a very high cultivation and didn't reveal their identity. I'm currently unable to investigate further."

Ning Yuzhou inquired about the individual's appearance and, after gaining a general understanding, instructed Qian Shou to send someone to keep an eye on the news in Cangwu Town. Any information regarding them should be reported promptly.

After Qian Shou left, Ning Yuzhou turned to Wen Qiao, who was sitting quietly by his side, and gave her a gentle smile. "Ah Chao, we'll be leaving soon."

Wen Qiao nodded slightly. Although she didn't know what her husband was planning, from his tone, she could tell that he had a resolution in mind.

***

In the evening, another guest arrived.

It was a woman dressed in red, carrying a large sword on her back.

She had a tall and slender figure, with a graceful and alluring silhouette. Her striking features exuded a vibrant spirit, and her bright eyes conveyed determination. Judging by her physiognomy, this was a female cultivator of unwavering resolve.

However, the female cultivator now wore an anxious expression, and the heroic contours of her brows were tinged with worry.

"The alchemist who sold the superior-grade pills at Yunlai Pill Shop?" The red-clothed female cultivator went straight to the point.

Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao both understood upon seeing her. This was the person that Qian Shou had mentioned, someone seeking his medical expertise. With her red attire and large saber, she was easily recognizable.

"I am indeed," Ning Yuzhou replied politely. "May I ask, Miss...?"

"Qin Hongdao," the red-clothed woman answered succinctly. "I've tasted the spirit pills you refined. Their quality is top-notch, flawless even. I'm here to ask for your help in treating someone."

Ning Yuzhou maintained his composure. "Miss Qin, I'm only a Yellow Rank Alchemist. My abilities are limited. I'm afraid I can't be of much assistance. Perhaps you should seek out other alchemists?"

"I've already consulted all the alchemists in this town, and none were of any use!" Qin Hongdao's tone carried a hint of frustration. If not for the fact that every alchemist in town had failed to treat the illness, she wouldn't have come to Ning Yuzhou.

There were indeed alchemists in the town with skills surpassing Ning Yuzhou, two of whom were even Mystic Rank. Unfortunately, they too were powerless. Qin Hongdao's visit was a last-ditch effort, hoping that Ning Yuzhou might be able to provide a solution.

If not for time being of the essence, she wouldn't have lingered in Cangwu Town searching for an alchemist. She would have long taken her companion to the Pill Alliance's Five Cities.

In the end, Cangwu Town was rather remote. Most who came here were cultivators seeking training on Cangwu Mountain. Alchemists were few and far between, making it difficult to find one at or above the Earth Rank.

Qin Hongdao wasn't unreasonable. She suppressed her anxiety and said, "You don't need to worry. Even if you can't treat the illness, I won't hold it against you."

Ning Yuzhou did believe this, as he had learned from his investigation with the Shadow Hunter that many alchemists had been sought after but failed to solve the issue. Furthermore, those alchemists had returned safely without any mishaps.

Qin Hongdao's cultivation was so profound that even the Shadow Hunter couldn't fathom it, indicating her immense prowess. With such a level of cultivation, if she were to vent her anger, others would have no choice but to endure it.

On the Holy Martial Continent, strength reigned supreme – it was more than just an empty phrase. The actions of the strong, however unjust, went unchallenged by the weak.

Given the circumstances, Ning Yuzhou found it inappropriate to decline the offer and agreed to accompany Qin Hongdao for a visit.

Right then, Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao followed Qin Hongdao out of the house.

As they left, Qin Hongdao glanced at Wen Qiao, her gaze suddenly fixing on the demonic rabbit in her arms. She exclaimed in surprise, "Is this a mutated beast?"

Wen Qiao looked back at her and nodded slightly.

She was the first person they had encountered who had identified Wen TuTu's true identity as a mutated beast, revealing her keen eyesight.

"Well spotted," Qin Hongdao said with a hint of a smile, offering some advice. "Mutated beasts are indeed rare finds. If nurtured with heavenly treasures, when it matures, its strength will surely rival that of high-ranking noble-blooded beasts."

Wen Qiao suddenly developed a great affinity for her.

Boasting a vibrant personality without resorting to bullying the weak, acting with a clear moral compass and refraining from coveting others' treasures, they instead offer kind guidance. This is the embodiment of what she envisions as the demeanor of a prestigious sect's disciple, starkly contrasting with the despicable behavior of the pink-robed woman she encountered before.

Qin Hongdao led them to a secluded private residence, nestled deep within an alley.

A profound array formation stood guard at the entrance, and with a mere glance, Ning Yuzhou inferred its immense power—only a cultivator at the Essence Spirit Realm could possibly break through it. The fact that Qin Hongdao possessed such an impressive array demonstrated his extraordinary background.

Qin Hongdao retrieved the jade slip, activating the array, and led both individuals inside.

Upon entering, they found themselves in an empty courtyard overgrown with weeds, giving off a desolate vibe.

Inside were a few annex rooms. Qin Hongdao approached the middle one, pushed the door open, and invited the two inside.

The room was somewhat dimly lit, and the air was filled with a subtle, pungent odor mixed with a hint of cloying sweetness.

This made Wen Qiao feel uneasy. After transforming into her demonic form, her sense of smell had become highly sensitive. Like the spiritual plants, she preferred the pure, fresh air of nature and found any other unpleasant scents unbearable.

Unconsciously, Wen Qiao held her breath.

Qin Hongdao strode straight towards the only bed in the room, calling out as he went, "Junior Brother, I've brought a pill master for you to see. Are you feeling any better?"

After a moment, an hoarse voice echoed within, "Senior Sister, don't trouble yourself. You might as well take me back. I want to see my parents one last time..."

"Rubbish! Tsk tsk tsk, what do children know? You'll definitely be fine!"

Qin Hongdao raised his voice in scolding, then turned to Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao by the door, "Young Master Ning, Miss Min, come over."

Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao approached and reached the bedside. Under the dim light, they soon discerned the figure lying on the bed.

Upon seeing the person on the bed, Wen Qiao understood the reason for the peculiar aura in the air. The man's face was covered with black bumps, all of which were oozing with disgusting pus and blood, rendering his features unrecognizable. Not just his face, but every exposed patch of skin beneath his clothing was marred with these growths, creating a nauseating and horrifying sight, like that of a malevolent spirit.

The man on the bed seemed to be in immense pain, his breath weak and his eyes dull. His mouth slightly ajar, he let out pained gasps.

Qin Hongdao couldn't bear to watch and looked away, urging Ning Yuzhou, "Young Master Ning, this is my Junior Brother Sheng Yunshen. Please, examine him quickly."

Ning Yuzhou said nothing. His expression was serene as he lifted the covers to inspect Sheng Yunshen's condition.

Qin Hongdao stood by, glancing at Ning Yuzhou and Wen Qiao. Seeing no signs of distress on their faces, he breathed a sigh of relief.

Ever since her junior apprentice brother had transformed into this state, everyone who saw him had reacted similarly – initial shock followed by a veiled aversion, with many unable to hide their disgust. Even the alchemists they had invited couldn't help but cover their noses, and after a cursory inspection, they claimed their inability to help.

Ning Yuzhou's reaction was far too ordinary, as if he were dealing with a regular patient. This brought Qin Hongdao some comfort.

Over there, Ning Yuzhou unbuttoned Sheng Yunshen's shirt, revealing his chest covered in the same black bumps. According to Qin Hongdao, these terrifying lumps were scattered all over his body, leaving no intact skin behind.

He took out a silver needle as thin as a hair, pricking one of the bumps to extract the pus and blood. The needle turned black almost instantly.

Next, he retrieved from his storage bag a fist-sized ball with an uneven surface, resembling a mosaic of different colors. Each segment was dull, like a series of rhombus-shaped fragments embedded within.

Ning Yuzhou collected some of the pus and blood, dripping it onto the ball.

The pus was absorbed quickly, and in that instant, the once-dull ball shimmered with a bright glow. The rhombus fragments on its surface illuminated, flickering in various hues – red, yellow, blue, black… a dozen colors danced before their eyes.

Qin Hongdao was utterly perplexed. "Young Master Ning, what is this?"

"This is a Poison Discerning Plate, a tool I specifically crafted for detecting poisons," Ning Yuzhou explained.

Qin Hongdao was taken aback. Wasn't he an alchemist? How did he become a weapon craftsman? However, this question was soon pushed aside as she anxiously asked, "Can you determine what poison my junior apprentice brother has been exposed to?"

Ning Yuzhou finished examining the reactions on the Poison Discrimination Plate with a stern expression. "Miss Qin, Young Master Sheng's poison is actually quite easy to resolve, but…"

"But what?" Qin Hongdao asked eagerly.

Sheng Yunshen on the bed also looked at him anxiously. These days, he had consumed numerous detoxification pills, but none of them worked. The alchemists couldn't determine what kind of poison he was suffering from, leaving them baffled.

This is the first time anyone has confidently claimed they can solve it.

Ning Yuzhou explained, "This poison contains an obscure trace of Nether Poison from the Underworld, which is the reason why Young Master Sheng has been unable to detoxify himself all this while."

***

As Ning Yuzhou tended to Qin Hongdao's junior, a few cultivators arrived in Cangwu Town.

Upon reaching Cangwu, these cultivators made a beeline for the location where mission notices were typically posted within the town.