Night deepened.
The lights in the Hillside Courtyard had yet to go out.
Dugu Yan sat in the pharmacy.
Her Emerald Green Long Dress spread over the edge of the wooden chair, its sleeves rolled up to her elbows.
A dozen or so jade bottles stood neatly on the table.
The ground herbs gave off a faint, bitter scent.
Tang Chen pushed open the door.
"Still not finished?"
Dugu Yan did not look up.
"If you weren't leaving tomorrow, I could take my time."
"You're going to the Clear Sky Sect now. Ordinary medicinal liquid won't be enough."
She placed an herb in a jade bowl.
The Jade Phosphorous Serpent Emperor's soul power flowed from her fingers, slowly drawing out its medicinal properties.
Tang Chen walked over to the table.
"What do you need me to do?"
"Sit down."
Dugu Yan pointed to the wooden chair beside her.
Tang Chen sat down as instructed.
She set down the jade pestle and took Tang Chen's wrist.
The Emerald Green Ribbon rested against her palm.
Dugu Yan checked his meridians.
"Your soul power has stabilized."
"Mm."
"At level ninety-five, your meridians can withstand more potent medicine."
She took out a black jade bottle.
"Drink this bottle before entering the Clear Sky Sect."
"It can ward off poisons and keep damage to your meridians in check."
Tang Chen stored the jade bottle in his Black Ring.
Dugu Yan looked at the ring.
"You certainly were quick to accept Hu Liena's gift."
"It holds intelligence."
"Would you have refused it if it didn't?"
Tang Chen looked at her.
"She prepared medicinal liquid and clothes."
"They're all useful."
Dugu Yan gave a soft huff.
"I knew it."
She removed a green jade hairpin from her hair.
Her dark-green long hair tumbled loose, falling down to