As they spoke, the three had already returned to the mountainside of Mist Mountain. The five gathered once more, and the moment Xiao Yan saw Yao Qingyu, he said, "We successfully obtained the Nine-Jointed Jade Bamboo Heart, and there are two portions."
Upon hearing this, both Yao Qingyu and Wei Jiangyuan revealed relieved expressions. After all, it was naturally best if they did not have to make a deal with Ling Zhuo. Handing all the remaining herbs in Mist Mountain over to Ling Zhuo would have placed far too much pressure on the final pill-refining stage.
"Then let's find a place and start refining immediately!"
Seeing this, Cao Ying knew that the deal was no longer needed and that there was no reason for her to remain. She took the initiative to cup her hands toward the four of them. "Since the matter has been resolved, Ying'er will take her leave first. I will see you all at the final Pill Convention..."
Before Cao Ying could finish, Xiao Yan furrowed his brow slightly and stopped her. "Miss Cao Ying, could you stay a while longer before leaving?"
A trace of disbelief appeared in Cao Ying's eyes. From beginning to end, she had never intended any harm toward Xiao Yan's group, yet in the end, Xiao Yan still would not allow her to leave. Countless thoughts instantly ran through her mind, and she began making her own guesses about Xiao Yan's intentions.
An irrepressible wave of disappointment welled up in her heart. She had originally thought that Xiao Yan, with his extraordinary talent and willingness to spare no cost for Yao Qingyu, would be different. Yet, at heart, he was still the same as those men who regarded her as a plaything.
Wei Jiangyuan also stepped forward to persuade him. "Old