The Mystery of Han Feng's Murder of His Master
As Protector Liu's "most loyal" subordinate, Yang Shan carried out the task of leading the way quite well.
Along the way, they showed concern for Protector Liu. In every city they arrived at, they would arrange the best room, the best food and wine for Liu, and order a few beautiful and attractive maids to massage Protector Liu's shoulders and legs!
Protector Liu is no saint. Most of the powerful people in this world are harmed by wine and women! Otherwise, Fireworks Pavilion wouldn't be everywhere on the Dou Qi Continent.
Yang Shan's care for Protector Liu could be described as meticulous.
After all, Protector Liu is about to die.
Even death row inmates get a last meal before they're executed! And that's not all; there's another crucial piece of information that must be mentioned:
When Yang Shan first met Protector Liu, Protector Liu displayed a remarkably powerful Thunder Finger Force!
A lightning-attribute Dou Zong! Yang Shan's goal is not just to free that Hun Dan.
He wants Protector Liu to fall too!
Protector Liu is now squinting, enjoying the "shoulder and neck relaxation" from the fierce maid behind him.
"Cheng E, I never imagined that a cold-blooded killer like you, who only knows how to get stronger all day long, would be so familiar with these good places!"
Yang Shan still wanted to maintain the aloof and arrogant persona of "Cheng E," so he spoke very bluntly:
"In the Black-Corner Region, you have to tie your head to your waist. Once you close your eyes, you might not be able to open them again. Sometimes, when I'm feeling frustrated because my strength is improving slowly or because I've killed too many people, I come to these places to relax. Over time, I've become familiar with them."
Protector Liu agreed, "That's right. Cultivation is like water dripping on a stone; you can't rush it. Your cultivation speed is already quite good. As long as you follow the right path, you might become a top expert like me in the future!"
Yang Shan nodded in agreement on the surface, but secretly he had already started rolling his eyes.
He's currently recognized as the top player in Battle Through the Heavens. If he's only on par with Protector Liu in the future, he might as well delete his account and quit the game now.
I can't bear the shame!
Yang Shan poured a cup of wine for Protector Liu and asked, "Protector, I must report to you that Han Feng is no good. Don't be fooled by his respectable appearance; he's been up to countless shady dealings behind the scenes. He's ruthless and vicious. We must be extra careful on our journey. If we're not polite, I'm afraid he might..."
"Polite?"
Before Yang Shan could finish speaking, Protector Liu said with displeasure, "What kind of person is Han Feng? Do I need to be polite to him? Han Feng's betrayal of the Venerable Yao was a plan devised by our lineage's Heavenly Venerable. Does Han Feng dare to show the slightest disrespect to me?"
Yang Shan breathed a sigh of relief:
"That's good. I was just worried that Han Feng wouldn't give the Protector any face. In that case, I'll have to be even more respectful."
"Humble?"
Protector Liu arrogantly declared:
"Cheng E, listen to me carefully! If you dare to back down even a little when you see Han Feng, I'll make you regret it! When have the people of the Soul Hall ever backed down?"
Protector Liu patted Yang Shan on the shoulder:
"Didn't you want to take advantage of the chaos between the Jia Nan Academy and the Black Alliance to collect souls? That's perfect. My main focus is still on keeping an eye on Hun Dan Young Master. As for Han Feng, if there's nothing important, I'll leave it to you to handle."
"Seeing you is like seeing this protector! Cheng E, if you are cowardly in front of Han Feng, where is this protector's dignity?"
Every decision Protector Liu made was within Yang Shan's expectations.
Protector Liu really doesn't have anyone he can trust in the Black-Corner Region, but Hun Dan is someone Protector Liu has to keep a close eye on.
Therefore, Protector Liu will definitely not appear on Han Feng's side too often.
However, since the cooperation had to proceed, Protector Liu would inevitably find someone to handle some miscellaneous tasks that he didn't have to do himself.
Luo Xie was also responsible for the Bloodshed Hall, and Yang Shan said he wanted to take some souls from it.
So, is there anyone else who can be chosen to Protector Liu?
It can only be Yang Shan! Although Protector Liu doesn't have a high level of affection for Yang Shan, Yang Shan is currently the most reliable person under Protector Liu.
Therefore, Protector Liu had to embolden Yang Shan:
"When we get to Maple City, observe my demeanor and attitude. Remember, when you hand over matters to Han Feng in the future, you must learn to behave like me!"
"Don't be afraid of what Han Feng might do to you. If Han Feng isn't a fool, he'll treat you politely! If you dare to embarrass me, I won't let you off the hook!"
After speaking, Protector Liu waved his hand without giving Yang Shan a chance to say more:
"Alright, I've said enough to you today. You may leave now; I need to rest!"
What kind of rest is this during the day!
It's nothing more than that he's almost at Maple City, and he has a few maids by his side to choose from, so he wants to hone his skills at the last minute.
I really envy the NPCs; they can practice their shooting skills without waiting for the relevant systems to be implemented.
Yang Shan went to the next room and checked the jade and silk that Ling Ying had given him.
No red dots have appeared on the jade and silk yet.
In other words, Ling Quan has not yet come to pick up Xiao Xun'er.
This is a good thing.
The best-case scenario is that the red dot lights up again when Protector Liu is in Maple City.
After all, Ling Quan's main task was to take Xiao Xun'er away, and he couldn't stay at the Jia Nan Academy indefinitely just for the sake of a Soul Hall Protector.
I'll wait a couple more days at most, out of respect for Xiao Xun'er.
Therefore, Yang Shan couldn't be happier that Protector Liu could have a few more days of leisure.
Three minutes later, Protector Liu appeared outside the door, looking incredibly refreshed! "Cheng E, let's go to Maple City!"
Yang Shan: "."
"Are the kidneys of Dou Zong really that weak?" Protector Liu glanced at Yang Shan: "What's wrong?"
Yang Shan: "No, it just feels like Protector Liu seems more energetic than before!"
Protector Liu laughed heartily, "Cheng E, the maids you chose are not bad. Go tell the madam to stop those four maids from serving customers. Wait for me to return, and we'll fight three hundred more rounds!"
"With your physique, which can take down four maids in three minutes, you dare to say you can fight another three hundred rounds? I'm afraid you'll break on the maids' bellies, old man!"
Of course, Yang Shan could only say these words to himself.
If he were to actually say it, he probably wouldn't make it to Maple City alive.
This city is not too far from Maple City.
Yang Shan dared not use the Extraterrestrial Ghoul Lightning, so he could only use a fifth-order mutated Magic Core to make up the difference.
The Fifth-Order Beast Lightning generated by this fifth-order mutated Magic Core is similar in color to the Extraterrestrial Ghoul Lightning, and it comes from a fifth-order King of Beasts called Blood Thunder Tiger.
Its power was even weaker than the Ape King Violet Lightning that Yang Shan used before.
It's something I'll have to make do with.
This is also a preparation, in case "Cheng E" encounters something difficult to handle in the future and has to use the Extraterrestrial Ghoul Lightning, but is unable to eliminate all the witnesses, then at least there will be room for maneuver.
Being cautious and prepared in all things is an essential quality for Old Schemer!
Two hours later, Protector Liu and Yang Shan arrived in Maple City.
Yang Shan continued to fulfill his duties as a subordinate, "I will immediately inform Han Feng."
Protector Liu said calmly:
"No need. This is just Maple City. If I want to enter, who can stop me?"
This Protector Liu might have really been a lackey of the Soul Clan for too long.
Having finally managed to come to the "barren land" of Black-Corner Region, a nobody has become a big shot overnight.
Protector Liu was seizing every opportunity, wanting to show off at every moment.
Yang Shan timely flattered Protector Liu, thus putting him to death:
"Protector Liu's strength is overwhelming. Even if Han Feng is the chief disciple of the Venerable Yao, in front of you, all he can do is bow and scrape!"
Protector Liu couldn't stop smiling; he pointed at Yang Shan:
"You little rascal, I thought you were a quiet type who could talk!"
Led by Protector Liu, they flew directly to the City Lord's Mansion in Maple City, where Han Feng resided.
Han Feng was in the middle of a crucial fusion step in refining the medicine, was interrupted by Protector Liu's unrestrained Dou Zong aura, and all the medicinal herbs in the Cauldron were burned to ashes! Han Feng's mouth twitched.
After the battle at the Jia Nan Academy, Han Feng went from being one of the wealthiest men in the Black-Corner Region to almost becoming a person who had lost credibility.
These days, I'm frantically refining pills to make up for the rewards owed to the various forces for their help last time.
This batch of pills is the Emperor Extreme Pill! But Han Feng had no time to worry about the medicinal materials.
Because the newcomer was a Dou Zong! As Han Feng left the alchemy room, he saw two people already standing outside.
The elderly man in front of them was a Dou Zong! And he wasn't much weaker than Su Qian!
The masked man behind him was clearly a lackey, not even qualified to show his face! Han Feng maintained his composure, cupped his hands, and said, "Senior, you look unfamiliar. May I ask which faction you belong to and what business you have with me?"
Protector Liu took out a token from his Storage Ring: "Han Feng, do you still recognize this token?"
Han Feng's pupils contracted! Inside the Soul Hall, anyone whose strength reaches the Dou Zun can be granted the position of "Elder" and will also be qualified to cultivate trusted confidants.
Therefore, the major factions within the Soul Hall are basically led by "respecting the elders".
This black token is engraved with strange hand bones, indicating that the holder is from the Soul Hall's venerable elder, "Old Mu Bone"! This Old Mu Bone is no ordinary person.
He is Eighth Grade Alchemist of the Soul Hall, and he is also a disciple of Yao Chen, the Venerable Yao! Out of jealousy of Yao Lao's talent and achievements, he specially accepted the mission of capturing Venerable Yao from the Soul Hall and successfully turned Han Feng to the enemy.
With the help of both inside and outside forces, Yao Lao was forced to self-destruct his body, escaping with his Soul Body.
However, Han Feng is quite courageous.
He still believes that he has the potential to rival or even surpass Yao Lao in the future.
Therefore, he did not choose to join the Soul Hall, and his cooperation with Old Mu Bone was purely cooperative.
After his plan to capture Venerable Yao failed, Han Feng worried that Yao Lao's close friend, "Venerable Feng," would investigate and uncover the truth. So, he took half of Heaven Rank Cultivation Method and went to the Black-Corner Region to cultivate in seclusion.
In Han Feng's understanding, although the Soul Hall was powerful, it was ostracized by other forces in the Central Plains, so it tried to keep a low profile in many of its actions.
Unexpectedly, the Soul Hall has now extended its reach to the Black-Corner Region!
As for Old Mu Bone's subordinates, they knew perfectly well what Han Feng had done back then.
Han Feng stopped trying to hide anything and became slightly more respectful:
"So you are a protector under Elder Mu Gu! May I ask what brings you here, senior?"
Protector Liu was very satisfied with Han Feng's attitude:
"I've heard that you've encountered some trouble recently?"
Han Feng: "Yes, I have recently had some conflicts with the Jia Nan Academy."
Protector Liu: "I've come here today to give you a task! You should be able to guess what I want."
Han Feng pondered for a moment and replied:
"Soul?"
"Indeed! If you intend to establish the Black Alliance and fight against the Jia Nan Academy, it will likely take a long time to achieve a result. This protector instructs you to collect as many souls as possible while you are fighting against the Jia Nan Academy!"
Protector Liu stood with his hands behind his back, looking arrogant. "Don't worry, you're not from the Soul Hall after all. I won't let you do things for nothing. If you do a good job, I will naturally lend you a hand when necessary!"
Han Feng's eyes lit up. "If you're willing to lend a hand, that would be wonderful!"
Han Feng still yearns for the Fallen Heart Flame of the Jia Nan Academy.
However, Han Feng was also well aware that even if he united various forces and called on the Gold Silver Duo, he would still be on par with the Jia Nan Academy.
Entering the Inner Courtyard again to snatch the Fallen Heart Flame would be even more difficult.
But if Protector Liu, a Dou Zong, were to help, Su Qian would be in real trouble!
Han Feng's inner fire immediately ignited.
Once he obtains the Fallen Heart Flame, with two Heavenly Flames within him, his combat power will greatly increase, allowing him to fight even against Dou Zong! If he breaks through to the Dou Zong, then even if Su Qian is Two-Star Dou Zong, Han Feng is absolutely confident he can defeat him! Protector Liu flicked out a Storage Ring with his finger and said:
"This Storage Ring ring contains one hundred Soul Gathering Pearl, along with instructions on how to use Soul Gathering Pearl. If you can fill this ring with all one hundred Soul Gathering Pearl, this protector will help you once!"
Han Feng feigned delight, bowed his head and clasped his hands in greeting. "Since you've said so, senior, then I'll accept this task!"
Han Feng lowered his head, a slight sneer on his lips, but unfortunately, Protector Liu couldn't see it from this angle!
Protector Liu nodded:
"Very good, a wise man knows when to yield. You are indeed worthy of being the disciple of the Venerable Yao, hehe."
Protector Liu's laughter sounded rather sarcastic.
Han Feng murdered his master; this is a shameful act no matter where you look.
Even in the Soul Hall, where the rules are so strict they're almost ruthless, betrayal is an absolute capital offense!
Faced with Protector Liu's teasing, Han Feng showed a perfectly appropriate embarrassment, but did not respond.
Protector Liu straightened his collar. "I have other matters to attend to, so I won't chat with you any longer. From now on, my subordinates will represent me in negotiations with you!"
Yang Shan lowered his head:
"My name is Cheng E."
Han Feng immediately replied respectfully, "Mister E's concealment technique is truly remarkable; I couldn't detect even a trace of it!"
Protector Liu: "My subordinate has a special secret weapon to conceal his identity. It's normal that you can't detect it. He is Three-Star Dou Wang!"
The special item "Unseeable" has an absolute shielding effect against those below the Dou Zong.
However, it will weaken the Dou Zong to some extent.
Protector Liu could only glean a rough idea, since Yang Shan Protector Liu previously told him he was Three-Star Dou Wang. (In reality, he was already a six-star, but he needed to conceal it to avoid being identified as "Yang Shan.") After hearing Protector Liu's explanation, Han Feng bowed again.
"I see. In the future, I hope you will give Mister E more guidance!"
Yang Shan nodded slightly:
"No problem!"
Protector Liu was very satisfied with Yang Shan's performance.
Han Feng was really suppressing the urge to burn Yang Shan to ashes with the Sea Heart Flame.
Damn it! A Three-Star Dou Wang dares to put on airs in front of him, Medicine Emperor Han Feng! Seeing that the matter was settled, Protector Liu said, "Alright, Han Feng, the matter is settled, I won't stay any longer! If you have anything to say, just speak with Cheng E; his words are my words! I await your good news!"
Han Feng said with a serious expression, "Please rest assured, senior, I will definitely handle this matter properly!"
Protector Liu and Han Feng had already discussed it, but Yang Shan was dumbfounded.
What's wrong?
Is it really that simple for NPCs to discuss cooperation? What kind of insight does Han Feng have?
I wonder if we should arrange a few girls to welcome Protector Liu and wash away the dust of his journey?
Is Protector Liu suffering from acclimatization issues in Maple City and leaving so soon? If Protector Liu leaves Maple City, how can he achieve "killing three birds with one stone"? However, Yang Shan quickly realized that the reason Protector Liu was not staying was probably because of that Hun Dan.
After all, Protector Liu's core mission was to prevent that Hun Dan from accomplishing anything in the Black-Corner Region.
The people of the Soul Hall are always able to distinguish between primary and secondary tasks.
The extra income Han Feng received was considered "secondary income".
But if something goes wrong on that side of the Hun Dan, Protector Liu will become "Pure Soul Energy"! Protector Liu left quite gracefully, not even giving Yang Shan a chance to say a few more words, and flew away directly into the air!
Yang Shan said to Han Feng almost without hesitation, "I forgot to remind the Dharma Protector."
Han Feng smiled faintly, "Please feel free to do as you please, Mister E Mister E. I am in Maple City and will be waiting for your return at any time."
After Yang Shan left, Han Feng's face turned ferocious:
"Soul Hall, if it weren't for your arrogance back then, Master Old Mu Bone, how would he have had the chance to escape? You've made a complete mess of things, and you still blame me for not using enough poison. Now, a mere Soul Hall Protector dares to disregard me!"
Han Feng roared and unleashed his Sea Heart Flame, burning everything around him to ashes.
"Once I obtain the Fallen Heart Flame... the Fallen Heart Flame! Master! Why won't you give me the cultivation technique! If you give it to me, won't I stop betraying you?"
A single image kept flashing through Han Feng's mind.
That was his mentor, Yao Chen, the Venerable Yao, who said to him with a serious expression, "Han Feng, your aptitude, temperament, and comprehension are not yet sufficient. This technique cannot be passed on to you!"
Han Feng's eyes were bloodshot. "I'm not good enough? Why am I not good enough? My talent is unmatched. You said back then that I would definitely achieve great things! Why do you say I'm not qualified? You can learn from me, but I can't. I'm not as good as you! I'm not as good as you!"
"Disciple of the Venerable Yao, disciple of the Venerable Yao, disciple of the Venerable Yao"
"I am Han Feng! I am Han Feng!"
With a thud, a charming maidservant stood at the courtyard gate, holding a tray, but the dishes on the tray had already fallen to the ground.
Han Feng regained his usual refined and otherworldly demeanor as the Medicine King. He looked at the trembling maid and said gently, "Xiao Juan!"
"My lord, I didn't mean it."
Han Feng shook his head and said magnanimously, "It's nothing. I just encountered some troubles and was venting. Xiao Juan, I have something I want to ask you. Please tell me your opinion."
Xiao Juan was so frightened that she knelt down:
"This servant is listening!"
Han Feng: "Imagine you're a genius that everyone admires, someone who's always ahead of their peers, someone you're extremely confident in about your talent and intelligence. But you happen to have a master who seems impossible to surpass! Everyone you meet doesn't care about your name, they just keep saying 'so-and-so's disciple,' how would you feel?"
Xiao Juan answered tremblingly:
"Master, this servant... this servant does not know."
Han Feng seemed to be smiling with a hint of helplessness:
"That's true. You're not a genius, so how could you understand how I feel?"
As soon as she finished speaking, Deep Blue Flame enveloped the maid.
The maid didn't even have time to scream before she was burned to ashes.
"I was even planning to take advantage of you a bit, but how could you be so blind as to see something you shouldn't have? Tsk, what a pity!"