"You don't know how high the heavens are or how deep the earth is. Countless people would love to curry favor with Master Ma but never get the chance. I'm giving you an opportunity to work for him."
Xu Yang's reaction delighted Luo Zhao. He wanted Xu Yang to offend Master Ma.
Master Ma looked amiable enough, but Luo Zhao knew he was actually a petty, narrow-minded man.
"Master Ma, let me draw the water for you."
Having used Master Ma, Luo Zhao began currying favor with him, volunteering to take the iron bucket from his hand and fetch the water.
"No need. I'll do it myself."
Master Ma narrowed his eyes at Xu Yang, refused Luo Zhao's offer, and strode toward the cold pool. Blood-red blood energy surged from his body. Clearly, he was also an expert whose body tempering had reached the blood energy manifestation realm.
Master Ma reached the edge of the cold pool and removed the bucket's lid. He filled it to the brim, glanced inside, and apparently found it unsatisfactory. He emptied it back into the pool and filled it again before returning with the bucket.
"Master Ma, this is just routine. Please forgive me."
Luo Zhao stepped forward and opened the lid. Only after confirming there were no Blackwater Spirit Loaches inside did he help put the lid back on.
"Everyone, I'll take my leave."
Carrying the iron bucket, Master Ma cupped his hands and strode away.
Splash!
He had only taken two steps when ripples suddenly disturbed the normally tranquil Jade Waters Cold Pool. The sound drew everyone's attention. They turned to see a Blackwater Spirit Loach leap from the water and fall back in.
"Huh? A Blackwater Spirit Loach?"
Master Ma also stopped and looked back, bucket in hand. Several more Blackwater