A Turn of Events

The Divine Essence Pill was precious to begin with, but with the Third Prince's Mansion's name behind him, he could scrape together the funds. As long as he had enough money, it would be no great challenge.

But the Nine Yin Liquid was practically a legendary treasure, something that could be chanced upon but never sought. He was only in charge of the medicine storehouse at a prince's mansion; where could he possibly find the means to acquire it? Never mind him—even if the Third Prince went in person, he probably wouldn't be able to obtain the Nine Yin Liquid anytime soon.

Xu Yi turned to the Third Prince. "This is the crux of the matter. Your Highness won't have any trouble, will you?"

At those words, the Third Prince's head immediately began to swim.

Life and the throne spurred the Third Prince's blood to boil. It rushed all at once to his head, and with a SLAM, he sprang to his feet. "Rest assured, Master. Even if I have to risk my life, I'll get it for you. Cao Er, come with me to Marquis Anqing's residence."

Cao Er hesitated, then summoned his courage and said, "Your Highness, I don't mean to dampen your spirits, but times have changed. After the Battle of the Imperial Arena, Marquis Anqing underwent a great transformation. He's shut himself away and, I hear, spends his days meditating in his residence, paying no attention to worldly affairs and turning away all visitors. When the Ninth Prince's enthronement ceremony was held, the Empress Dowager personally sent Chief Eunuch Song to deliver the decree. The Marquis still kept his doors shut. The Empress Dowager was so furious she flung her phoenix cup, but in the end, there was nothing she could do."

The Third Prince was