C13 Secret Realm Opened!

Jiang Fann had initially planned to draw them into the Myriad Treasures Tavern's training room to hit them where it hurts financially, but he hadn't anticipated a brawl breaking out in the main hall.

Han Qianxue was clearly siding with Jiang Fann, leaving Chen Ke and his companions baffled. Yet, they dared not cross this beauty.

Chen Ke remarked, "Look, Miss Han, let's not resort to throwing one's weight around, shall we?"

With a smile, Han Qianxue responded, "Throwing my weight around? Ultimately, you were the ones who struck first at my people, prompting Young Master Jiang to step in on my behalf. If you're not willing to make amends, that's fine. I'll simply send someone to your estate to collect the damages."

Chen Ke's composure faltered. "This..."

Qin Feng retorted with irritation, "Hold on, Han Qianxue, how is this any of my concern? I was merely a spectator. Why should I be paying compensation?"

Qin Feng meant no harm; his earlier intervention with Jiang Fann had been restrained and measured.

Han Qianxue gave Jiang Fann a tug. "Young Master, should he be compensating?"

Such a display caught everyone off guard. Jiang Fann sensed something amiss but was reluctant to outright dismiss the matter.

"You make the call," Jiang Fann said, deferring the unpleasant task to her, wary of being manipulated.

Han Qianxue nodded in understanding. "Let's leave Qin Feng out of this; he arrived later. As for Chen Ke and Zhang Bo, each will compensate with a precious spirit herb. I'm sure that's a trifle for you both."

The two men protested. "Is this a shakedown?"

Han Qianxue's smile hardened as she peered at them with narrowed eyes.

Qin Feng's face paled, and he spun on his heel to leave.

Realizing something, Chen Ke and Zhang Bo dropped two boxes and hastened after Qin Feng, not once glancing back.

When Jiang Fann turned to Han Qianxue again, her smile had resumed its usual warmth.

"Does that meet with Young Master Jiang's approval?" she asked, beaming.

Jiang Fann nodded, "Absolutely, I'm more than pleased. Thank you for stepping in, Miss. I won't impose any further. We shall reconvene at the opening of the Loongze Lake Secret Realm."

"Qianxue won't see you out then. Take care on your way."

Jiang Fann stowed the medicinal herbs and made a swift departure. Han Qianxue's presence had left him feeling uneasy; an unreadable person was all the more dangerous.

Upon exiting the Myriad Treasures Tavern, Jiang Fann noticed that Chen Ke and his companion had already left, with Qin Feng waiting for him outside.

Brushing off the cobwebs of memory, Jiang Fann recognized Qin Feng as quite the figure. In their competitive youth, Qin Feng had garnered considerable acclaim. His current state and mindset made it clear that his success was no accident.

Qin Feng greeted him, "Elder Brother Jiang, may we talk?"

Jiang Fann nodded and replied telepathically, "I was actually hoping to discuss something with you as well."

Qin Feng, momentarily taken aback by the telepathic message, quickly caught on and, with a smile, followed Jiang Fann away.

Back at the Jiang Family residence, Jiang Fann found that Chen Ke and his brother hadn't returned.

Qin Feng, as if reading Jiang Fann's thoughts, chuckled, "They realize they're outmatched and won't be looking for trouble. The Jiang Family is indeed full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers. It's remarkable that a modest place like Loongze County has produced two juvenile geniuses like Jiang Yueyao and yourself. Elder Brother Jiang, should you join the Jiang Mansion, your accomplishments might even eclipse those of Jiang Yueyao."

"Elder Brother Qin, you're too modest. With your cultivation at the mid-Innate Stage, there are few among our peers who can match you," Jiang Fann countered.

He led Qin Feng to the parlor, which was secured with a formation to prevent eavesdropping.

"Elder Brother Jiang, your caution and attention to detail serve you well," Qin Feng remarked.

Jiang Fann nodded. "Ever since my breakthrough, I've felt as though someone is lurking nearby, yet I can't detect their presence. Perhaps I'm just being paranoid. Did you come here for Jiang Yueyao, Elder Brother Qin?"

Qin Feng shook his head firmly, "Not at all. My visit is prompted by the imminent opening of a secret realm near Loongze Lake. My father instructed me to arrive early and be among the first to enter. I was hoping to extend an invitation to you, Elder Brother Jiang—would you join me?"

Jiang Fann was forthright.

"I've already agreed to accompany Han Qianxue."

Qin Feng wasn't taken aback. Han Qianxue's presence was undoubtedly tied to the Loongze Lake Secret Realm. Judging by her demeanor with Jiang Fann, they seemed to have a collaborative history.

"That seems like a wise decision."

Jiang Fann steadied himself and ventured a question: "What's Han Qianxue's influence like in the capital? And her level of mastery?"

Qin Feng gave Jiang Fann a puzzled look. "Aren't you two acquainted?"

Jiang Fann shrugged it off.

"We've only collaborated a handful of times. I've never been to the capital, so naturally, I'm unaware of her background."

Qin Feng paused, then began, "It's no surprise you're so bold. This Han Qianxue is—"

He was cut off mid-sentence by a sudden shudder, freezing for a moment. Shaking his head with a rueful smile, he said, "I can't speak of it, I can't. The protective enchantment here is too limited. Someone outside just warned me through a message not to disclose anything."

Jiang Fann glanced outside. It was as empty as ever, yet he grasped Qin Feng's implication.

Qin Feng went on, "However, Elder Brother Jiang, you can confidently partner with her. Many yearn for her favor in vain. She's selective about whom she esteems, and you should take pride in that."

In Jiang Fann's recollection, Qin Feng's integrity was beyond reproach, though his own progress had been slower, and they hadn't had much interaction.

Regrettably, Qin Feng ultimately fell victim to treachery, assassinated by a formidable adversary—a lamentable end.

After an afternoon's conversation, Jiang Fann recognized Qin Feng's value as an ally. When the time came, he would offer a warning, aiding him through the impending crisis.

As dusk settled, Qin Feng took his leave, imparting a cautionary note to Jiang Fann.

"Han Qianxue has a rather spiteful betrothed—stay on your guard!"

The corners of Jiang Fann's mouth curled upward. That explained the odd looks from the Chen Ke pair upon witnessing Han Qianxue's closeness with him. Jiang Fann remained silent, aware of the watchful eyes upon him.

Jiang Fann mused to himself, "What could Han Qianxue possibly be thinking? I'll just have to play it by ear."

Qin Feng hadn't left; he remained in Loongze County.

Every now and then, he'd join Jiang Fann for a drink. Jiang Fann even filched some of his father's aged wine to share with Qin Feng until they were both thoroughly inebriated.

The treasures from Nine Peaks Mountain had all been transformed into pills by Jiang Fann, bolstering his confidence for the upcoming expedition into the secret realm.

A month slipped by, and Liu Ye, the steward of Guangnan King, unexpectedly showed up at the Jiang residence, catching their skilled practitioners off guard.

Liu Ye looked troubled. After returning to the royal estate, he had consulted several alchemists, yet none had even heard of the Meridian Severing Pill, let alone knew how to counter it.

He wasted no time getting back to Loongze County, as the supply of pills Jiang Fann had given him was running low.

Jiang Fann led him to the parlor, requesting privacy from the others.

With a slight smirk, he eyed Liu Ye.

"Housekeeper Liu, did you make any inquiries? Did you find someone capable of concocting it?"

Liu Ye was straightforward, "Once I've done three favors for you, will you help me neutralize this Meridian Severing Pill?"

Jiang Fann nodded affirmatively, "Absolutely. The first favor is quite simple. The Loongze Lake Secret Realm is about to open, and I need you to stay with the Jiang Family to oversee things. Will that work for you?"

While speaking, Jiang Fann produced a vial of the Meridian Severing Pill and tossed it to him.

Liu Ye looked perplexed.

"Does the Jiang Family really need someone to watch over Loongze County? Who would dare to challenge the Jiangs?"

Jiang Fann explained, "Once the secret realm opens, Loongze County will be teeming with all sorts. It's difficult to ensure there won't be any trouble. Anyone who dares to challenge the Jiang Family will be shown no mercy. Any issues that arise will be my responsibility."

With that, he presented a small vial containing a single medicinal pill.

"This is the Hundred Divine Pill, a Yellow Rank first-grade elixir. You're aware of its effects. I've promised not to shortchange you, and I intend to keep that promise. Fulfill the tasks I've set for you, and you'll be handsomely rewarded."

Liu Ye's hands trembled as he accepted the medicine bottle. "Is this... the Hundred Divine Pill? The legendary elixir that can directly enhance one's spirit? How did you come by this? Are you truly giving it to me?"

"There's no need for you to concern yourself with the details. Just don't let me down."

Liu Ye secured the pills and bowed respectfully, "Rest assured, I will ensure the Jiang Family's safety without fail."

The Myriad Treasures Tavern dispatched a messenger, urging Jiang Fann to promptly meet with Han Qianxue. Jiang Fann was aware that the Loongze Lake Secret Realm had been unveiled.

Before departing, Jiang Fann informed his father of the secret realm's opening, suggesting that those in the sect who dared to venture inside might just skyrocket to success.

Jiang Tianhai wasted no time relaying the information back to Jiang Mansion, fulfilling his duty as the guardian of their territory.

That day, Loongze County saw an influx of unfamiliar faces. Numerous enigmatic masters were accompanied by eager youths, all bustling and dust-covered in their haste.

Some lingered within the city, while others made a beeline for Loongze Lake.

Upon arriving at the Myriad Treasures Tavern, Jiang Fann found Han Qianxue geared up and ready.

She had swapped her luxurious robes for a form-fitting practice outfit that accentuated her impressive physique, a truly pleasing sight.

Annoyed, she asked, "Have you had your fill of gawking?"

She gestured towards the table, which was laden with various pills and spiritual talismans.

"Pick whatever you need."

Jiang Fann picked up a bottle of pills, sniffed them, and remarked, "A Sixth Grade Yellow Rank Spirit Returning Pill! A pity about the excess impurities."

Despite his critique, he swiftly stashed the bottle into his Hundred Treasures Bag.

He then grabbed another.

"Fifth Grade Yellow Rank, Qi Stabilizing Powder. The craftsmanship is lacking, I'm afraid. Thumbs down!"

Han Qianxue retorted sharply, "I didn't ask for a critique. If you don't want them, leave it be!"

Jiang Fann swiftly gathered everything on the table into his Hundred Treasures Bag. He might not need them, but he knew something was better than nothing.

The Myriad Treasures Tavern had a carriage ready for them. Once they boarded, the coachman set off towards Loongze Lake.

Aboard the carriage, Han Qianxue, brimming with curiosity, pulled out some fruit. She glanced at Jiang Fann and inquired, "Housekeeper Liu has visited Jiang Mansion again, and it appears he's staying on. Qianxue is quite curious—how did you manage that, Young Master?"

"I had a feeling you'd ask," Jiang Fann mused to himself.

He replied, "Miss Han, your sources are remarkably well-connected. Is there anything that happens in Loongze County that escapes your notice?"

Han Qianxue was unimpressed. "Our Myriad Treasures Tavern has always had its ways. Please don't take it personally, Young Master."

Jiang Fann grabbed an apple and took a bite. "Why would I take it personally? But really, Housekeeper Liu's decision has nothing to do with me. It's more likely he and my father hit it off and he's decided to take up permanent residence at Jiang Mansion."

Han Qianxue looked skeptical, but Jiang Fann didn't bother with further explanation.

Suddenly, Han Qianxue's expression turned serious, and she shared in a hushed tone, "I've come across some intriguing news about the Qiao Family."

Jiang Fann's interest piqued at the mention of the Qiao Family. "Oh? What's the Qiao Family been up to lately?"

She leaned in closer and whispered, "The Qiao Family recently left Loongze County under the cover of night with a group of strikingly beautiful women. Do you have any idea where they might be headed?"

"Striking beauties? Could this be for a marriage alliance?" Jiang Fann pondered.

Han Qianxue chuckled. "Whether it's for a marriage alliance, I can't say. But one thing's for sure—the Qiao Family is definitely plotting something, especially since they've sent these people beyond the borders, all the way to the Myriad Poison Sect."