Seeing the change in the other man's expression, Jing Wen immediately struck while the iron was hot. "Precisely. If you would show mercy, Senior, I am willing to offer you the complete Pill Formula."
"Hmph. Hand it over for me to examine first," the Golden Core Adept said coldly.
Jing Wen promptly took out the book of Pill Formulas Zhang Ling'er had given him and slowly tore out a page beneath the man's burning gaze.
His movements were composed, yet concealed a scheme. He tore the page in half and tossed only the first half behind him.
The Golden Core Adept swept his sleeve, catching the half-page Pill Formula.
His gaze flashed like lightning as he swiftly scanned its contents. Once he confirmed it was indeed the formula for the Soul-Nourishing Pill, the greed in his eyes intensified.
This book was worth a fortune. If I could obtain it...
"What do you think, Senior?" Jing Wen's voice sounded at just the right moment. "As long as you promise to let me leave, I will immediately hand over the rest of the Pill Formula."
The Golden Core Adept sneered. "You think a mere half-page will satisfy me?"
"Unless you hand over the entire book..."
Jing Wen had been prepared for this. Neither servile nor overbearing, he said, "Of course I can give you the book, but I must ask you to swear a heart-demon great oath first."
"Insolence!" The Golden Core Adept flew into a rage, his oppressive aura abruptly surging. "Who do you think you are to bargain with me?"
A wisp of dusky blue flame ignited at Jing Wen's fingertip, its tongue gently licking the book's edge. His tone was resolute. "If you insist on forcing my hand, Senior, then I can only let jade and stone burn together."