Lin Ke shielded everyone behind him, then slowly took out a scroll.
"This is a Gu-removal method we devised through constant contemplation and practical experimentation within the Illusionless Gu Sect."
"Although the risks are extremely high, and it will cause disorder in internal circulation, tempering of the meridians, and spiritual qi to surge wildly."
"As long as one survives all of the above, however, one can remain alive."
The scroll flew into the hall with a whoosh.
After a long silence, a voice sounded from within the hall again. "Good. You truly are a man of extensive learning and many talents."
"An intermediate Formation Master, an advanced artifact refiner, a novice talisman master, and now you even have some means of treating Gu infestations."
"Excellent. Our Imperial Clan is indeed fortunate to gain someone of your great talents. The recent plans of our Grand Consort and Second Consort happen to require precisely such talent."
"Since you have come to join us, I naturally welcome you as a consort."
"However, as everyone knows, our Imperial Clan only accepts female disciples, with ranks such as empress, high consort, and consort."
"As a man, if you wish to join, you must castrate yourself. This has been the rule since ancient times; it is not as though I am deliberately making things difficult for you."
Mu Ting, who had remained silent at the side, spoke up. "There is another path."
Her voice had clearly been suppressed or altered. In any case, it sounded exactly like that of an effeminate man.
The person within the hall immediately chuckled. "Oh? A cultivator of our Imperial Clan has actually returned safely?"
"Wonderful. This is fortunate news. What method are you speaking of, little sister?"
"That would be to seek out the Imperial Sovereign, the High Person, and