Chapter 472: Chapter 116: Tower Entry Test

Advanced Elixir!

Feng Yugui’s eyes narrowed suddenly, secretly hating how Mu Qingge hit him where it hurt.

Wasn’t the disgrace from an Advanced Elixir enough for him?

Moreover, saying this now was like pushing him into the fire pit, wasn’t it? Who didn’t know that Advanced Alchemists were extremely rare? In the entire Medicine Tower Branch, apart from Master Lou and Director Hua, only one person could occasionally refine an Advanced Elixir.

The four proud disciples of the Medicine Tower present couldn’t yet refine an Advanced Elixir.

They couldn’t do it yet, but if a disciple who hadn’t even entered the Medicine Tower could, wouldn’t that be a slap in the face for them?

Feng Yugui glanced at the expressions of the four, the other three seemed normal, but that Diao Yuan…

Feng Yugui had inquired about Diao Yuan’s character before approaching him. It was said that he was small-minded and narrow-hearted, never accepting being second among the Medicine Tower Branch disciples.

Sure enough, Diao Yuan’s face at this moment was even more shadowed than before, and the look in his eyes was full of scrutiny and jealousy.

Zhu Ling, who always wore a smile, showed a colder shade in his grin after hearing Mu Qingge’s words.

Zhao Nanxing and Shang Zisu’s expressions didn’t change much; they only looked at Feng Yugui in surprise when they heard he could refine an Advanced Elixir.

’What to do?’

Feng Yugui felt sweat dripping from his temples.

Should he admit Mu Qingge’s words or not?

If he admitted, he would inevitably offend those present. If he didn’t, it might dredge up the old matters in Tu City, ruining his reputation.

To advance or retreat, either seemed like a dead end.

Feng Yugui’s hawk-like eyes locked fiercely on Mu Qingge, and he thought with hatred: ’Mu, you’re as ruthless as ever. Just a few words can push someone to the brink of despair!’

While Feng Yugui was still racking his brains for a solution, Diao Yuan couldn’t wait.

He said sarcastically, “Oh? Third Prince Feng can already refine Advanced Elixirs? Such talent truly makes me feel inferior!”

Feel inferior? If he really felt inferior, why speak with such gritted teeth?

Feng Yugui was angry inside but couldn’t show it, only making a humble smile: “Brother Diao, you’re joking. How could I possibly refine an Advanced Elixir? It’s just a rumor.”

He thought carefully, knowing he absolutely couldn’t admit to it for his future plans.

If he admitted, and Diao Yuan became jealous, what if he refused to introduce him to Director Hua? And if word spread to the Medicine Tower, what if someone demanded he refine an Advanced Elixir on the spot?

Admittedly, Feng Yugui had some sense not to admit it under pressure at this time.

Although doing so might drag up the affairs in Tu City, he could still have room to maneuver if he pushed all responsibility away.

After all, admitting it would be courting death.

“Is it really just a rumor?” Diao Yuan said disdainfully.

“How could it be a rumor? That day in Tu City, I personally saw and heard you tell my father that you had refined an Advanced Elixir to heal my mother.” Wei Qi said gleefully.

He seemed to understand Mu Qingge’s intention, wanting to re-enact the Tu City incident on Cui Lake.

“That’s right, that’s right, I heard it too that day.” It’s undeniable that the dragon-phoenix twins have an inexplicable mental connection. As soon as Wei Qi started, Wei Guanguan understood and chimed in.

Mu Qingge smiled slightly, remaining silent.

At this moment, she wanted to see how Feng Yugui would resolve the crisis.

Trying to use dirty tricks on her? She’d make sure he was thoroughly played inside and out.

’Go ahead, explain. Explain.’ Mu Qingge admitted her smile was a bit cheeky. But there was no choice; how could one not act cheeky when encountering a scoundrel?

“It seems Third Prince Feng believes my sister and I aren’t qualified to appreciate the Advanced Elixir you refined.” The Wei siblings’ words made Diao Yuan’s eyes even colder.

Zhu Ling no longer smiled radiantly, and instead, said to Shang Zisu, “Zisu, are you tired? Should we go back?”

Shang Zisu nodded slightly and stood up.

That graceful figure was like the clouds on the horizon, elusive and hard to grasp.

She turned to leave.

Zhu Ling quickly stood up and said to Diao Yuan, “Brother, I’ll accompany Zisu back first.” With that, she walked over to Shang Zisu’s side, completely ignoring Feng Yugui.

Shang Zisu was about to leave, and naturally Zhao Nanxing wouldn’t stay for long.

He gracefully stood up, politely nodding farewell to everyone, not even overlooking Mu Qingge and her companions. Only then did he follow Shang Zisu in departure.

The three boarded a light boat, leaving Cui Lake behind.

It was as if everything was unrelated to them.

On the light boat, Zhu Ling and Shang Zisu stood side by side. Zhu Ling asked, “Zisu, do you think that Third Prince truly has such talent to refine advanced elixirs?”

Zhao Nanxing stood behind them, his gaze following Shang Zisu, almost like he was her guard.

In response to Zhu Ling’s question, Shang Zisu shook her head without hesitation, bluntly saying, “No.”

Immediately, Zhu Ling was taken aback, then laughed until her waist trembled. “Zisu, you remain as candid as ever.”

As she spoke, she continued, “Not everyone can refine advanced elixirs. At the very least, one must be an extraordinary person like Brother Mei to possess such talent. Does that Third Prince even deserve it?”

When mentioning the one before, Zhu Ling’s eyes were filled with unabashed admiration, but when it came to Feng Yugui, there was only intense sarcasm.

Shang Zisu glanced at her without saying much.

After listening to their conversation, Zhao Nanxing laughed, “If that’s the case, why leave now?”

Shang Zisu turned a deaf ear. Zhu Ling turned her eyes with a smile, “Prince, didn’t you hear Zisu is tired?”

“Don’t use Zisu as cover,” Zhao Nanxing said indifferently.

In her laughter, Zhu Ling carried a hint of cunning, “That Third Prince intends to place himself under my master’s door, hence the invitation for me and Brother to the banquet. Since we’ll meet again in the Tower, why make the situation awkward this time?”

“You’re quite wise, leaving Brother Diao Yuan to be the villain,” Zhao Nanxing laughed.

“Brother is accustomed to being the villain,” Zhu Ling chuckled and withdrew her gaze.

In those smiling eyes, a shade of darkness was hidden.

The boat had already gone far, yet the confrontation on the pleasure boat still continued.

Diao Yuan sat there, clearly wanting Feng Yugui to give him a satisfactory explanation.

But how should Feng Yugui explain?

To speak the truth? He probably wouldn’t admit he once used others’ elixirs to pad his own by any means.

Suddenly, his eyes lit up, and he said to Diao Yuan, “Brother Diao, this is Mu Gongzi, an excellent hand at alchemy. It’s said she has also refined advanced elixirs.”

He thought it was splendid to divert Diao Yuan’s attention to Mu Qingge.

Indeed, Diao Yuan followed his wish, turning his gaze onto Mu Qingge. That sinister gaze seemed to want to thoroughly examine Mu Qingge inside and out.

Feng Yugui felt a bit smug, wanting to see how Mu Qingge would handle it now.

If she admitted, she’d surely offend Diao Yuan before entering the Medicine Tower, and life would be difficult thereafter in the Tower. If she didn’t admit, she’d be on par with him, neither faring well.

However, he forgot, not everyone would need to curry favor with Diao Yuan to enter the Medicine Tower Director’s door.

Feng Yugui’s words made Mu Qingge smile calmly, that attitude, unclear whether it was an admission or denial.

Diao Yuan’s gaze was cold, mixed with some jealousy, and he asked sinisterly, “Can you refine advanced elixirs?”

“Why must I prove it to you whether it’s true or false? I’m here today just to see that piece of advanced elixir in the Third Prince’s hand. With such exceptional talent, Third Prince will surely shine in the Medicine Tower Branch, so I thought to seize the opportunity now to see it for myself before it’s too difficult later.” Mu Qingge said this and then looked at Feng Yugui.

Had the banquet been ruined by Mu Qingge? Feng Yugui was already furious enough to kill.

Yet at this time, she continued to press forward, simply overbearing!

“Mu, what do you really want?” Feng Yugui shouted angrily.

Mu Qingge’s lips carried an unwavering smile, with her clear eyes filled with coldness, “What I want, I thought Third Prince knew well in his heart.”

Feng Yugui’s heart was clogged, and upon seeing the others’ angry expressions, he roughly understood.

Then, Diao Yuan suddenly stood up and said to Mu Qingge, “Are you saying I’m not worthy of knowing your alchemy skills?”

But Mu Qingge paid no attention to him, instead looking at Feng Yugui with calmness, “Third Prince, it seems I won’t have the chance to witness the true form of the advanced elixir today. Let us part here, and we shall meet another day. By the way, let me add that what goes around comes around.”

After saying this, she instructed the boatman to turn the boat around and head to the shore.

Mu Qingge left, ruining Feng Yugui’s banquet.

Fortunately, there was still Diao Yuan left behind.

However, when Feng Yugui tried to lean in and explain, he just snorted coldly, flicked his sleeve, and left. Not giving any face at all.

Feng Yugui stood where he was, feeling a sense of being counterproductive and nauseated!

…

“Mu Ge, are we just going to let him off that easily?” Once the small boat had sailed far away, Wei Guanguan asked unwillingly.

Mu Qingge looked at her and smiled, “Then what do you propose?”

Wei Guanguan said, “I thought you would have a Dan Fighting with him and expose him.”

Mu Qingge’s lips curled into a faint smile, “And what if I expose him? Sometimes mixing truth and lies can have a better effect.”

“I don’t understand,” Wei Guanguan frowned and asked.

Mu Qingge did not explain further but instructed Wei Qi, “From today onwards, spread the word that Feng Yugui can refine Advanced Elixirs, spread it as widely as possible.”

Wei Qi looked at Mu Qingge, puzzled, but didn’t ask more and just nodded in agreement.

Wei Guanguan ignored it and asked persistently, “Why do this? Isn’t this building him up?”

“Building him up? Only if he can truly refine Advanced Elixirs,” Mu Qingge chuckled. “Let’s give him something to do so he doesn’t come looking for trouble with me all the time.”

She wants to elevate Feng Yugui way up, so the fall would be painful.

Once the news of Feng Yugui being able to refine Advanced Elixirs gets out, it would naturally attract the attention of the Medicine Tower’s higher-ups. By then, she wants to see how Feng Yugui will explain. If he doesn’t explain and stubbornly admits, then she would hit him hard at the right time, not only ruining his reputation in Yu Country but also spreading his infamy back to Li Country.

Hasn’t he always wanted the position of Crown Prince? How can a prince with a tarnished reputation inherit the throne?

“Mu Ge’s approach is correct,” Shui Ling pondered for a while and suddenly said.

Seeing the others looking over, she continued, “Do you know who those people were just now?”

The Wei siblings looked bewildered. Mu Qingge’s expression remained indifferent, revealing nothing.

Shui Ling pursed her lips and said, “If I’m not mistaken, those four should be the top four on the Medicine Tower’s popularity list. Except for the first place Mei Zizhong who wasn’t there, the other four were all present.”

“Medicine Tower’s popularity list? What’s that?” Wei Guanguan asked confusedly.

Wei Qi also curiously looked at Shui Ling, hoping she would explain.

Shui Ling glanced at Mu Qingge, seeing that her expression remained unmoved and, unable to fathom her thoughts, explained: “The so-called Medicine Tower popularity list refers to a comprehensive ranking among the Medicine Tower students. It’s generally determined based on their alchemy talent and strength. There are only ten places on the list; the top five have always been stable, while the bottom five frequently change. It’s said that those who can make the list are prominent figures in the Medicine Tower and can receive privileges from various countries’ Imperial Families. The three who left earlier, if I’m not mistaken, are ranked third, Shang Zisu, fourth, Zhao Nanxing, and fifth, Zhu Ling. The last one to leave should be the perennial runner-up Diao Yuan.”

“Pfft, why is he called the perennial runner-up?” Wei Guanguan couldn’t help but laugh.

Shui Ling nodded, resembling a Demi Immortal, squinting as she said, “Because Diao Yuan and Mei Zizhong entered the Medicine Tower at almost the same time. Both have similar talents and were apprenticed to the only two Advanced Alchemists in our Third-class Country, starting from the same line, but in every competition, no matter how hard Diao Yuan tries, he always falls short of Mei Zizhong. Over time, he gained this nickname.”

“How do you know so much about this?” Wei Guanguan looked at Shui Ling with admiration.

Shui Ling said proudly, “Of course! Who am I? I didn’t just idle around in Sangzhi City these past few days.” With that, she looked at Mu Qingge, like a child seeking an adult’s approval, and asked, “Mu Ge, do you think I’m impressive?”

This scene caused Fu Tianlong to feel displeased again.

But Mu Qingge just smiled faintly and said nothing more.

Shui Ling felt a bit disappointed as she seemed to perceive Mu Qingge’s wariness towards her.

“So, in front of those heavenly prodigies, we’ve set Feng Yugui up. Let him pretend to be a big shot and see how he explains himself later,” Shui Ling continued the topic from before.

Wei Qi suddenly realized, “If Mu Ge challenged Feng Yugui to a Dan Fighting, he would certainly not be Mu Ge’s opponent. That would instead attract those prodigies’ attention to Mu Ge and let Feng Yugui off the hook.”

“Exactly!” Shui Ling gave Wei Qi a look, saying, ’You’re not too dumb.’

Hearing this, Wei Guanguan, who finally understood the intricacies, suddenly exclaimed: “Ah! Mu Ge, did you predict all this, that’s why you did it?”

With this sentence, everyone focused their gaze on Mu Qingge.

Mu Qingge humbly said, “I’m not an Immortal; how could I know so much?”

“Really don’t know?” Wei Guanguan obviously didn’t believe it.

…

In the following two days, everywhere in Sangzhi City, there were rumors about the Third Prince of Li Country, Feng Yugui, with his extraordinary talent. At a young age, he was already capable of refining Advanced Elixirs, and his talent could surpass the first of the Medicine Tower, Mei Zizhong.

Feng Yugui hadn’t even entered the Medicine Tower, yet he had become a well-known figure there. Countless people awaited the opportunity to witness this genius Alchemist and wanted to see his flair during alchemy.

Mu Qingge and a few others took the opportunity to explore Sangzhi City over the past two days.

The day after they arrived in Sangzhi City, Si Mo disappeared. During the day, he always vanished mysteriously, but every morning when Mu Qingge woke up from her dreams, she found herself in his arms. Whether she had been cultivating or doing something else before going to sleep, it was all the same.

In any case, she inexplicably fell asleep, and upon waking, found herself in this exact scene.

“Morning,” Si Mo slowly opened his eyes and flashed a tempting smile at her.

Mu Qingge twitched the corner of her mouth, disengaging his arm around her, and calmly got up to dress. It was as if she considered the person on the bed not as a person, but as an object.

“Today, little Ge’er will enter the Medicine Tower, won’t she?” Si Mo said, looking at her upright back.

Mu Qingge did not respond.

Si Mo continued to speak to himself, “I’ve been handling some matters these days, neglecting little Ge’er. Please don’t be mad, little Ge’er.”

Crash! Is that why she’s upset?

Can’t this man reflect a bit on his ghostly appearances on other people’s beds?

Mu Qingge took a deep breath, trying to calm the anger in her heart.

After adjusting her emotions, Mu Qingge walked decisively to the door, pushed it open with both hands, and stepped out.

Her resolute figure made Si Mo gently furrow his handsome brows, and he muttered to himself, “It seems little Ge’er is really angry. It’s said that when women are angry, they need gifts to soothe them. Do I also need to prepare a gift to make her happy?”

Mu Qingge left the room with a dark face.

As she looked up, she saw You He and Hua Yue awkwardly standing in the courtyard.

“From today onwards, you two stay here and keep in touch with Mo Yang and the others, paying attention to what’s happening over in Qin Country. If there’s any situation, notify me in time. The Medicine Tower has rest days each month, and I’ll come back here to meet you then,” Mu Qingge instructed coldly, her mood seemingly not great.

Seeing their master’s bad mood, You He and Hua Yue didn’t dare to say much, just nodding frequently and keeping her instructions in mind.

“Little Lord, take good care of yourself at the Medicine Tower.”

As Mu Qingge was leaving, Hua Yue said reluctantly.

Mu Qingge nodded silently, then left the small courtyard alone.

It was only after getting far from the courtyard that the stuffiness in Mu Qingge’s heart began to ease.

Gazing at the blue sky and white clouds above Sangzhi City, she exhaled deeply and headed towards the city square.

When she reached the square, it was already packed with hundreds of people.

As she approached the crowd, she could hear a lot of whispering.

The most talked about topic was naturally the rumors about Feng Yugui.

“Hey, have you heard? The Third Prince from Li Country, who can refine advanced elixirs, has also come to the Medicine Tower.”

“It’s hilarious; he can already refine advanced elixirs, so why come to the Medicine Tower? If I remember correctly, there are only three people in the Medicine Tower Branch who can refine advanced elixirs, right?”

“Maybe he’s here to stir things up,” someone laughed mockingly.

“Indeed. Perhaps he thinks he’s extraordinarily talented and wants to show off at the Medicine Tower.”

“Once he’s in the Medicine Tower, I’m waiting to see if this Third Prince is as capable as the rumors say.”

“Not only you want to see it, I do too.”

Hearing these words, Mu Qingge seemed to envision Feng Yugui’s current predicament and couldn’t help but smile.

“Mu Ge, over here.” Suddenly, someone in the crowd called out to her.

She looked up and saw Wei Guanguan excitedly waving at her.

Standing beside her were Wei Qi, Shui Ling, and Fu Tianlong.

Mu Qingge slightly adjusted her gaze and walked over to the four of them.

As she got closer, she heard Wei Qi say excitedly in a low voice, “Mu Ge, as you predicted, the results are impressive.” This statement was somewhat obscure, but everyone present understood it clearly.

Seeing Mu Qingge appear, the siblings of the Wei family and Shui Ling all looked at her with eyes full of admiration, like a young fox meeting an old fox. Only Fu Tianlong’s eyes showed slight disdain, as if he didn’t want to associate with them, but was compelled to by Shui Ling’s presence.

Of course, he hadn’t forgotten his scheme against Mu Qingge, so his instinctive disdain was replaced by shame when his eyes met hers, and he lowered his head.

“How has that person been these past two days?” Mu Qingge asked.

Wei Qi replied, “Hiding away and not coming out. Seems like he tried to spread some word to turn the tide, but had little success.”

Mu Qingge gave a faint smile, “Just wait, once we’re in the Medicine Tower, there’ll be quite the show to watch.”

As she spoke, Mu Qingge felt two eyes filled with resentment staring at her. She turned back and saw none other than Feng Yugui hiding among the crowd.

Recalling their first meeting, this Prince of Li Country stood proud and confident. Now, he was hiding, blending into the crowd, and Mu Qingge couldn’t help but have a smile play on her lips.

This smile, caught in Feng Yugui’s eyes, only intensified his murderous and hateful glare!

“Everyone, has everyone arrived?”

A man in plain white clothes suddenly appeared at the front of the crowd, standing on a high platform, asking the hundreds below.

His appearance immediately drew the attention of everyone, including Feng Yugui and Mu Qingge.

The crowd looked up slightly, feeling that though this man’s features were ordinary, he exuded an otherworldly detachment, as if untouched by the dust of the mortal world.

“Who is this?” someone in the crowd whispered to those nearby.

“Judging by his demeanor, he might be someone from the Medicine Tower.”

For a moment, the hundreds of people speculated about the newcomer’s identity.

Shui Ling, squeezing beside Mu Qingge, said to the few of them, “It’s said that every time the Medicine Tower takes in students, they send a mentor to guide them. This one is probably this time’s guide.”

“How do you know so much, Shui Ling?” Fu Tianlong pushed his way in between Mu Qingge and Shui Ling, giving Mu Qingge a proud look and ingratiating himself with Shui Ling.

Shui Ling smiled smugly, “I’m known for my knowledge of the martial arts world!”

“Show-off,” Wei Guanguan pouted, taking the opportunity to lean in closer to Mu Qingge.

Meanwhile, the man on the platform began speaking again.

He held a roster and called names one by one. Those called stepped forward to the side to wait.

When he called Feng Yugui’s name, he seemingly glanced at him twice, intentionally or not.

Others also deeply noted Feng Yugui, as if wanting to remember this figure shrouded in controversy.

In fact, Feng Yugui had already sent people to secretly handle the matter.

But no matter how he claimed the rumors were false, that he was not an Advanced Alchemist, he couldn’t silence the persistent gossip.

Rumors thrive when there’s something to fuel them!

Public opinion can turn black into white and vice versa!

Finally, everyone on the roster was accounted for.

The man in the white robe said, “I am the guide for this Medicine Tower induction, responsible for bringing you into the Medicine Tower. But don’t think that this makes you a disciple of the Medicine Tower. Once inside, you will face an initiation assessment. Failure means you’ll be expelled and will never be allowed to partake in any Medicine Tower assessments again. If you pass, you’ll enter an observation period, which is crucial for determining which Pill Master’s tutelage you may enter in the future. However, those who break the Medicine Tower’s rules during this period will also be expelled and banned for life! Understood?”

“Understood!” the crowd shouted in unison.

Wei Guanguan leaned closer to Mu Qingge, whispering, “I didn’t expect the Medicine Tower to have so many rules. What if I can’t pass the initiation assessment? I don’t want to return to Tu City in disgrace.”

Mu Qingge softly reassured, “What comes will come, let’s face it.”

Alchemy requires talent, and she didn’t know if the Wei siblings had such talent, so she couldn’t make any promises.

At this moment, she was somewhat curious about what the Medicine Tower’s initiation assessment entailed.

Chirp — Chirp —!

Suddenly, the ground whipped up a fierce wind, stirring dust and causing clothes to flutter wildly, blinding people’s eyes.

Mu Qingge squinted her eyes, looking up to see several black shapes rapidly approaching from the sky, emitting beastly cries.

“Look! What is that?”

“Oh my! So big! Is it a Spirit Beast?”

“How can there be flying Spirit Beasts in Sangzhi City? Are Spirit Beasts attacking the city?”

Panic spread through the crowd.

The Medicine Tower guide, however, remained calm, saying, “Don’t panic, these flying Spirit Beasts are just tools dispatched by the Medicine Tower to bring you into the tower.”

“What! Such powerful flying Spirit Beasts are just tools for transportation?”

“The Medicine Tower is incredible!”

“I’m truly honored to enter the Medicine Tower!”

Waves of envy surged through the crowd.

’Is this the difference?’ Mu Qingge thought, feeling deeply shaken.

Back when she rode into Luodu on a Flame Horse Spirit Beast, it was already shocking to many. After all, in a Third-class Country, few could claim a Spirit Beast as a mount.

But the Medicine Tower?

To use such grand flying Spirit Beasts as mounts, these massive creatures were likely untamed by anyone in a Third-class Country.

The Medicine Tower’s strength was indeed extraordinary.

Mu Qingge’s eyes flickered as she watched the five flying Spirit Beasts descend.

At this moment, she finally understood why the Medicine Tower, which recruited few, built such a large plaza for gatherings.

Apparently, this was a ’landing pad’ for flying Spirit Beasts!

The colossal shadows descended, casting the plaza in darkness as massive claws touched down, making the ground seem to tremor.

Each flying Spirit Beast was about three zhang long and over one zhang wide. They resembled the bald eagles Mu Qingge knew in her past life, yet were different.

For instance, bald eagles didn’t have blood-red crests or colorful feathers on their necks.

After landing, the flying Spirit Beasts appeared docile and compliant, without an ounce of ferocity. They each quietly sat, preening their feathers with their long, sharp beaks.

The hundreds of people on the plaza kept their distance from the flying Spirit Beasts, fearful of becoming a meal by accident.

Only Mu Qingge was curiously observing.

To her surprise, she noticed each of the five flying Spirit Beasts had a rider on their necks, seemingly controlling them.

’Could this be the Beast Tamers the books described?’ Mu Qingge wondered to herself.

“These flying Spirit Beasts are called Dark Eagles, and they’re gentle by nature, so there’s no need to fear. Now, form groups of a hundred and get on the Dark Eagles’ backs,” the guide announced loudly to the crowd.

After speaking, he demonstrated by leaping onto a Dark Eagle’s back.

As he claimed, the Dark Eagle showed no distaste as people boarded; it remained calm and peaceful, encouraging many others to be bold.

Soon, more than half of the people had boarded the Dark Eagles’ backs.

Wei Qi said to Mu Qingge, “Mu Ge, let’s go up too.”

Mu Qingge nodded slightly, joining the Wei siblings, Shui Ling, and Fu Tianlong in climbing onto a Dark Eagle with fewer passengers.

Once everyone was on, the guide nodded to the Dark Eagles’ controllers.

Immediately, the Dark Eagles let out a cry, unfolded their massive wings, and took to the sky…

Everyone sat cross-legged on the Dark Eagles’ backs, gradually adapting to the discomfort of flying but still holding a sense of apprehension as they watched the shrinking mountains and rivers below.

“Oh my, I’m really flying!”

Wind gusted around them, making their bodies sway.

Mu Qingge sat, surveying the scene with wonder.

She marveled at the rare sight of the world below from such a unique perspective.

It was like nothing she had seen even when she rode the Flame Horse Spirit Beast into Luodu, a shock to all. After all, few in a Third-class Country could boast a Spirit Beast as a steed.

But the Medicine Tower?

They so extravagantly used such mighty flying Spirit Beasts as mere transport tools!

Their grandeur left Mu Qingge astounded.

She realized that the large plaza was constructed for such flying Spirit Beasts to land and take off, explaining its immense size.

In a flash, they left Sangzhi City far behind.

Mu Qingge’s mind echoed with a new realization about the disparity between these places and the world she had known.

The Dark Eagle flew in the air for over half an hour before finally descending slowly.

This time, perhaps due to the heavy load on its back, the Dark Eagle’s descent was not as swift as before, and its speed had slowed considerably.

Once the Dark Eagle landed, everyone quickly jumped off its back.

The feeling of having solid ground beneath their feet helped them gradually recover from their state of daze.

“Alright, you have reached the outskirts of the Medicine Tower. Pass through this forest, and you’ll arrive at the Medicine Tower’s gate. Your test is about to begin,” the guide suddenly spoke.

Everyone was in an uproar.

They hadn’t yet snapped out of their disorientation and were being told the test was starting? What a joke!

However, the guide paid no mind to their dissatisfaction and continued, “From now on, whether you team up or act individually, as long as you find these few types of herbs before reaching the Medicine Tower Courtyard’s gate, you’ll pass the first round.”

After finishing his words, a scroll rolled out behind him, revealing its contents.

It was filled with various herb names written in golden ink.

A cursory glance showed there were about a hundred types.

“We have to find all these herbs? Wouldn’t that take a very long time?” someone asked skeptically.

The guide explained, “You don’t need all of them. Remember, you just need to find five of these herbs. Also, I can tell you that all the herbs listed are in this forest. Whether you can find them depends on your ability to identify herbs, along with your luck.”

People whispered among themselves and crowded to the front, eager to memorize the herbs on the scroll.

Though only five herbs were needed to pass, no one knew what they would encounter along the way, so naturally, they needed to memorise everything to avoid missing any.

While everyone was hurriedly memorizing the scroll’s contents, the guide added, “There is a time limit for this test. You have only half a day. If you don’t reach the courtyard gate before sunset, even if you collect enough herbs, you cannot enter the Medicine Tower.”

“What! Only half a day? Let’s go quickly!”

The time constraint caused many to rush into the forest immediately.

Mu Qingge’s five-person team remained gathered and did not rush to set off.

Among the crowd, Mu Qingge saw Feng Yugui again. He was alone, as his guards could not accompany him due to the Medicine Tower’s rules.

After glaring at her fiercely, he snorted coldly and entered the forest.

It looked like he was going to act alone.

“Shui Ling, let’s go too,” Fu Tianlong urged Shui Ling. Seeing almost everyone entering the forest, his eyes showed a hint of urgency.

“I want to go with Mu Ge,” Shui Ling refused him and walked over to Mu Qingge.

Fu Tianlong angrily said, “Why do you always want to be with him? What’s so good about him? He might not even pass the entrance test.”

“Don’t say nonsense; Mu Ge is really capable!” Wei Guanguan, Mu Qingge’s loyal supporter, jumped to her defense.

Wei Qi also disagreed and said, “Tianlong, that was a bit too far. We siblings are very aware of Mu Ge’s abilities.”

“You guys!” Fu Tianlong was speechless from anger and could only look at Shui Ling, asking in a stern tone, “Shui Ling, I’ll ask one more time, will you come with me?”

“No!” Shui Ling turned her head away, refusing to look at him.

“Fine, fine, follow that pretty boy!” Fu Tianlong stormed off angrily into the forest alone.

After Fu Tianlong left, Mu Qingge touched the tip of her nose, feeling somewhat at a loss.

It seemed like she hadn’t done anything, so why did it feel like she’d offended someone?

Wei Guanguan saw Shui Ling staring at the direction where Fu Tianlong had disappeared and said, “Hey, if you can’t bear to part, why not chase after him.”

Shui Ling’s face turned red, and she argued, “Who can’t bear to leave him!”

“Let’s go,” Mu Qingge nodded her chin and stepped into the forest.

Unlike others, her leisurely demeanor suggested she wasn’t undergoing a test but simply strolling through the forest.

The Wei siblings closely followed her, while Shui Ling bit her lip and followed as well.

“Stupid Wei Qi, did you memorize those herbs just now?” On the way, Wei Guanguan asked Wei Qi.

Wei Qi scratched his head and honestly replied, “I only glanced at them hurriedly; I could only remember half.”

“You two came to the Medicine Tower to study, the most basic herbal recognition should be no problem, right?” Mu Qingge suddenly asked.

Wei Qi and Wei Guanguan shook their heads together.

“No problem, no problem. We’ve been finding herbs for our mother for so many years; ordinary herbs are nothing for us.”

Mu Qingge subtly nodded and reminded, “Although the herbs on the scroll are ordinary, because they’re ordinary, they’re harder to distinguish. There are too many similar ones. Pay attention to those existing on the scroll; you must carefully identify them. Don’t bring back similar herbs, or you won’t pass the first round.”

Mu Qingge’s reminder prompted the Wei siblings to put down their complacency and focus more.

“Let’s disperse and search,” Mu Qingge commanded, and the group slightly spread out, looking for herbs in different directions.

Each person needed five herbs as a qualification to enter, which meant they needed twenty herbs for the four of them. Of course, the rules did not state they shouldn’t repeat, but the guide’s words were clear—if they wanted more attention, they’d need to demonstrate better performance.

If all four passed with the same herbs, it would be too dismissive.

After the Wei siblings walked away, Mu Qingge suddenly grabbed Shui Ling’s wrist, pulled her aside, and used an ancient tree in the forest to hide their figures.

This scene happened to be seen by Fu Tianlong, who had circled back behind them.

Immediately, he burst into flames of anger and rushed toward them.

“Mu Ge, did you have something to tell me?” Shui Ling asked beforehand. She seemed completely unperturbed by Mu Qingge’s actions.

Mu Qingge said solemnly, “No matter what you plan, don’t reveal my secret. Otherwise…”

Shui Ling crossed her index fingers over her lips, assuring Mu Qingge, “Don’t worry, as long as you don’t say, I won’t say anything.”

The straightforward guarantee made Mu Qingge’s eyes flicker. She added, “Also, don’t drag me into your issues with Fu Tianlong…”

“You shameless scoundrel!” Suddenly, a furious shout interrupted Mu Qingge’s words.

Moving quickly, a pale green blade light slashed at the ancient tree where the two were hiding like lightning.

The murderous aura mixed with anger made Mu Qingge’s eyes contract sharply; she pulled Shui Ling’s arm and dodged the attack, escaping the scene just in time. As they moved away from the spot, the tree fell with a huge crash, creating a loud noise.

The sudden change startled Shui Ling.

The Wei siblings also quickly ran over. Those drawn to the scene included several close-by aspiring apprentices.

“Mu Ge!”

“Mu Ge! Shui Ling!”

Wei Qi and Wei Guanguan quickly reached Mu Qingge’s side, checking whether she was injured.

Awakened from her shock, Shui Ling looked at the mess on the ground and angrily shouted at Fu Tianlong, “Fu Tianlong, are you insane? Were you trying to kill me?”

Mu Qingge’s flawless face also showed a slight icy tone.

Fu Tianlong was of the Initial Rank in the Green Realm; if her strength was inferior, that attack might have severely injured her even if not fatal.

From their acquaintance, there was no deep-seated hatred between them, only a misunderstanding involving Shui Ling. Was such a drastic action necessary?

“I, I’m sorry, Shui Ling. I saw him trying to bully you and lost my cool,” Fu Tianlong froze. Facing Shui Ling’s rage, he hurriedly apologized.

“Leave! I don’t ever want to see you again!” Furious, Shui Ling turned her back on him, not listening to his explanation, and casually pointed in a direction to make him leave.

Fu Tianlong stood on the spot, looking hurt as he gazed at Shui Ling.

He hoped for Shui Ling’s change of heart but only saw her face filled with anger and resolve.

After a while, Shui Ling showed no intention of changing her mind. The Wei siblings also glared at him angrily.

With no other option, Fu Tianlong gave Mu Qingge a complex and resentful glance before turning and leaving.

The scene’s curtain fell, and the spectators gradually dispersed.

However, this little romantic conflict quietly spread among them.

“Doing this will only deepen his misunderstanding,” Mu Qingge walked up to Shui Ling and said in a cold tone.

Shui Ling gave her an apologetic look and lowered her eyes, “I know. But I really don’t know how to communicate with him anymore. He’s stubborn, never thinking things through. I’m sorry, Mu Ge, I didn’t expect things to turn out this way and drag you into it.”

Mu Qingge smiled wryly in her heart.

She could sense Shui Ling was using her to provoke Fu Tianlong, but didn’t understand why Shui Ling would tease him when Fu Tianlong’s feelings for her were obvious.

The result? The situation has escalated.

“Let’s go. The test is what matters,” she said, helplessly putting this matter aside for now.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep