Chapter 477: Chapter 121: Junior Brother Mu, Are You Up to the Task? (First Update)

Two days passed by in a blink.

During these two days, the most heated discussion in the entire Medicine Tower was not the duel involving Feng Yugui, but rather the scheduled duel between Mu Qingge and Song Yu.

As a result, the first duel, which should have generated high enthusiasm, had a lackluster audience when it took place.

After all, a PK between Intermediate Alchemists is really nothing worth watching.

The only reason attracting everyone here was the desire to see if Feng Yugui could truly refine an Advanced Elixir as rumored!

On the Dan Fighting stage, Feng Yugui stood facing the Alchemist challenging him.

In front of each was a long table, with a Pill Furnace also placed beside it.

On the tables were tools needed for the alchemy process.

Surrounding the stage were bleachers, enough to hold a thousand people. Unfortunately, only a sparsely scattered hundred or so people were present.

This quiet scene darkened Feng Yugui’s eyes as he stepped onto the stage, deepening his hatred for Mu Qingge in his heart.

In the bleachers, Mu Qingge sat with the Wei siblings, Shui Ling, and Fu Tianlong. Strangely, the other five people sharing their accommodation also sat nearby.

Wei Guanguan secretly glanced back, whispering in Mu Qingge’s ear, “These five have been showing up nearby for the past two days, are they worried you’d cheat during Dan Fighting?”

Mu Qingge smiled subtly, saying calmly, “No worries, let them be.”

Wei Guanguan pouted, muttering, “We’ll see what they’ll say after you win!”

“Mu Ge, when’s your duel with Song Yu?” Shui Ling suddenly asked.

On the day the duel was arranged, Mu Qingge only replied that it would be after Feng Yugui’s match, without specifying an exact time.

Mu Qingge replied with a gentle smile, “Tomorrow.”

“Then it seems the audience tomorrow will definitely be larger than today,” Shui Ling said with a smile.

Wei Qi discontentedly retorted, “What do you mean ’seems’? It’s certain!”

“That’s right! Mu Ge, we’re waiting for you to utterly crush your opponent!” Wei Guanguan exclaimed excitedly.

“Mu Ge, I also look forward to you shining brightly,” even Fu Tianlong, who seldom spoke to Mu Qingge, chimed in.

His words immediately drew astonished looks from the others.

Mu Qingge merely glanced at him lightly, her clear eyes nodding calmly towards him.

Fu Tianlong withdrew his gaze, but no one saw the tightly gripped elixir hidden in his sleeve.

This elixir was secretly given to him by Feng Yugui last night, instructing him to find a chance to give it to Mu Qingge before she steps onto the stage. It was said this elixir dissolves in water, is colorless and tasteless, and isn’t easily noticed.

What the elixir does, Fu Tianlong didn’t know.

Yet, having once drugged Mu Qingge before, Fu Tianlong hesitated about it.

Thus, the elixir remained tightly grasped in his hand, not yet delivered.

On the stage, Feng Yugui’s opponent had appeared. Once the two arrived, the Dan Fighting immediately began. After mutually greeting each other, they wrote down the names and quantities of the medicinal materials they needed on paper.

Once they finished writing, they handed it to the attendant in charge of the stage to prepare.

During the waiting period, Feng Yugui glanced around the bleachers, easily locking onto Mu Qingge’s position. A cold smile fleetingly crossed his lips.

The excitement and determination in his eyes made Mu Qingge squint her eyes.

Retracting his gaze, Feng Yugui recalled his conversation with Diao Yuan that day, feeling a sense of ease.

That day, after he informed Diao Yuan that Mu Qingge might refine an Advanced Elixir, Diao Yuan indeed changed his attitude towards him.

Afterward, he gave him an elixir, claiming it could disrupt Spiritual Sense concentration during alchemy, instructing him to find a way to give it to Mu Qingge. Upon success, when Mu Qingge fails in Dan Fighting, it would be his time to be introduced to the head of the branch.

This promise left Feng Yugui without any hesitation.

Now, he eagerly awaited to see Mu Qingge fail, panic, and become ridiculed by many.

“Mu Ge, when you can’t even focus your Spiritual Sense, I wonder how you’ll manage to refine an Advanced Elixir. You might struggle to even produce Low Level Elixirs! Today you’re still daring to watch me make a fool of myself? Today, I’m destined to be the focus, and you are destined to be tomorrow’s laughing stock,” Feng Yugui maliciously thought to himself.

Having Fu Tianlong carry out this task was ideal, for they harbored the least suspicion against him, and driven by his feelings for that woman Shui Ling, he would surely resort to any means to disgrace Mu Qingge and even drive her away.

Feng Yugui’s lips curled into a cold smile, once again admiring his initial decision.

If he hadn’t made the agreement to cooperate with Fu Tianlong then, today’s matter might not be resolved so easily.

In the bleachers, Wei Guanguan said to Wei Qi, “I think Feng Yugui is up to no good again, look how wickedly he’s smiling!”

These words fell into Fu Tianlong’s ears, causing his gaze to flicker, his grip on the elixir even tighter.

“Tianlong, are you alright?” The unusual behavior of Fu Tianlong caught the attention of Shui Ling beside him.

Fu Tianlong glanced at her, quickly shifted his gaze, and said in a muffled voice, “No.”

Seeing his reluctance to speak, Shui Ling, though curious, did not continue to inquire.

Fu Tianlong turned his head, seemingly focused on the actions happening in the arena. Mu Qingge’s calm gaze fell on his profile, appearing deep in thought.

…

Soon, the attendant responsible for preparing the medicinal materials returned.

They had prepared three sets of the required medicinal materials.

That’s because during the refining process, failure often occurs midway, so in a Dan Fighting competition, typically three sets of materials are prepared. As long as one set is successfully refined, it’s considered a success. Conversely, if all three sets fail during the refining process, it’s deemed a failure.

With the materials prepared, Feng Yugui’s opponent spoke to him, “Please, Junior Brother Feng.”

“Please, Senior Brother,” Feng Yugui replied.

After a courteous exchange, the two began to focus on the preliminary steps of alchemy.

Since the materials were taken from the Medicine Tower’s storage, they were spared the sorting process. After weighing the materials, they could grind them and begin alchemy.

All around was silent; watching Dan Fighting doesn’t have the visual impact of other contest stages.

Moreover, the process is rather tedious.

Fortunately, the audience here consists of Medicine Tower disciples, who are accustomed to such waiting, so it didn’t lead to any whispers.

After watching for a while, Wei Qi suddenly frowned and said curiously, “Why does Feng Yugui’s opponent look so dejected and unwilling, almost as if he’s lost already?”

His remarks immediately piqued Wei Guanguan’s interest, causing her to lean forward and closely observe Feng Yugui’s opponent.

Even Mu Qingge’s gaze fell on that person.

“Really! You wouldn’t notice if you didn’t say it, but now that I look closely, he indeed seems to be dealing with it casually,” Wei Guanguan said.

Shui Ling said in confusion, “But wasn’t this challenge proposed by him? Feng Yugui is the one being challenged.”

Mu Qingge watched for a while and said to the others, “Let’s keep watching.”

Upon hearing this, the three fell silent, closely observing the competition on the stage, unwilling to miss a single detail.

“Oh no!”

Suddenly, a lamenting voice rose from the crowd.

The few looked over and saw Feng Yugui’s opponent tossing the freshly ground medicinal powder into the Pill Furnace, only for a waft of charred black smoke to emerge from the furnace.

It was obvious that his first attempt at alchemy had failed.

Mu Qingge stared at the man’s face, noticing a change in his complexion but no surprise in his eyes.

This could be seen as steadfast calmness, but it could also be understood that he had anticipated such a result, so there was little fluctuation in his gaze.

Mu Qingge’s eyes held a hint of amusement, “This challenge is becoming interesting.”

“Mu Ge, what did you say?” Wei Guanguan didn’t catch Mu Qingge’s mumble and quickly turned to ask.

Mu Qingge grinned and said with intent, “Let’s hope the Senior Brother doesn’t slip up again this time.”

Wei Guanguan nodded without understanding, “I hope he wins too, so Feng Yugui’s arrogance gets knocked down a bit.”

“Just watch the contest,” Mu Qingge said, lifting her chin.

Wei Guanguan nodded and refocused her attention on the stage.

After his first failure, as the challenger, he began preparing the second set of medicinal materials again. At this time, Feng Yugui had already moved to the process of refining within the Pill Furnace.

Soon, the challenger prepared the medicinal powder once more and tossed it into the Pill Furnace.

This time, no accident occurred; the medicinal powder seemed to stabilize within the furnace, gradually starting to fuse. Meanwhile, in Feng Yugui’s Pill Furnace, the elixir was beginning to take shape and would be ready soon.

An hour later, a burst of Dan Fragrance emanated from Feng Yugui’s Pill Furnace.

“It’s finished!”

“Did he really succeed on the first try?”

“From the aroma, it seems to be Middle Level Middle Grade, or High Grade Elixir.”

“Still couldn’t refine an Advanced Elixir? Wasn’t it said he could make Advanced Elixirs?”

“Tch, do you think an Advanced Elixir is that easy to succeed in refining?”

“In this case, isn’t Brother Chen sure to lose?”

“That’s not necessarily true. After the elixir is successfully refined, releasing it is crucial. Perhaps, at the moment it’s released, it fails again?”

“True, true!”

As the Dan Fragrance from Feng Yugui’s Pill Furnace became more intense, the discussions in the stands grew more numerous.

Only at this point did Mu Qingge realize that the senior competing with Feng Yugui in the Dan Fighting was surnamed Chen.

“Look quickly! It’s about to be released!”

Someone shouted excitedly but cautiously restrained their volume, seemingly worried their voice might disturb the Pill Master.

Feng Yugui forcefully slapped the Pill Furnace’s wall, and with a sudden pop, the lid of the Pill Furnace bounced upward, releasing an even denser Dan Fragrance that permeated the stands.

An orange-yellow elixir shot up into the sky, and Feng Yugui stretched out his hand, catching it in his palm.

Perhaps influenced by Feng Yugui’s successful refinement, at the same time, a muffled sound came from the opposing Pill Furnace, and a burnt, foul-smelling black smoke again billowed out.

“How did it fail again?”

“What’s Brother Chen doing? He actually failed twice in a row today!”

In the crowd, there were whispers of discussion.

Brother Chen’s complexion turned blue, clearly indicating that he was not in a good mood.

In contrast, Feng Yugui was already holding the refined elixir in his hand. He spread it out in his palm, seemingly to show it off to the audience in the stands, his demeanor filled with pride, his gaze very smug.

“Ah, looking at the elixir’s color, it seems to be of Middle Level Middle Grade quality.”

“Tsk, what’s so special about that? I came to see an Advanced Elixir, but they refined something like this.”

This discussion drifted into Feng Yugui’s ears, causing his originally proud expression to momentarily freeze, and he cast a cold glance at the speaker.

Retracting his gaze indifferently, Feng Yugui looked toward Brother Chen opposite him and smiled with curled lips, “Senior, I’ve already completed my elixir. You better cherish this last chance.”

Brother Chen’s eyes momentarily showed resentment, but it quickly dissipated.

Facing Feng Yugui’s teasing, he could only mutter, “Thank you, Junior, for the reminder.”

After speaking, he started preparing the last batch of medicinal materials as if unaffected.

“He failed again; is his qualification as an Intermediate Alchemist fake?” Wei Guanguan retracted her extending body disappointedly, leaning back against the chair.

“Don’t talk nonsense; the Medicine Tower’s Pill Master assessments are very strict. How could there be any falsification? Besides, if he really faked it, knowing his level, how could he dare to step up and issue a challenge?” Wei Qi argued.

“Then why does he keep failing? That sly Feng Yugui succeeded once!” Wei Guanguan pouted.

Wei Qi couldn’t answer and could only scratch his head, saying, “Maybe… maybe he’s just unlucky today?”

Unlucky?

This word fell in Mu Qingge’s ears and provoked her cold laugh.

Indeed, one must admit, quite unlucky.

Previously, she had heard that the person challenging Feng Yugui seemed to be a follower of Diao Yuan. And this challenge was actually a probe issued by Diao Yuan.

However, during the actual competition, the opponent failed repeatedly, which was quite unusual.

The elixirs refined by both parties were announced publicly by the attendants before each took their medicinal materials. Both types were not difficult to refine. Reasonably speaking, someone who had been apprenticed to the Medicine Tower for years, as an Intermediate Alchemist, would not make such mistakes.

If this was truly the case, then it was intentional.

Intentionally losing the competition?

But why?

Mu Qingge frowned slightly, seemingly unable to understand why a Dan Fighting that was supposed to disgrace Feng Yugui ended in such a dramatic reversal.

’The only person who could make Brother Chen deliberately lose the competition is probably one individual. But why would that person suddenly abandon the probing intention and help Feng Yugui?’ Mu Qingge pondered in her heart, the truth having unveiled a veil before her, yet many matters were still shrouded in mist.

On the stage, Feng Yugui had already completed the elixir and stood aside waiting for Brother Chen’s final attempt.

Initially, everyone thought they would see the elixir refined by Brother Chen this time.

Unexpectedly, Brother Chen failed again when adding the powdered medicine to the Pill Furnace.

Three consecutive attempts at alchemy ended in failure, instantly sparking a wave of boos from the stands.

Feng Yugui’s expression became smug again, cupping his hand, he said, “Brother Chen, thank you for the concession.”

Brother Chen’s face was terribly drawn, he muttered amidst the surrounding boos, “I underestimated Junior’s strength and was overly anxious, foolishly trying to challenge an Intermediate Top Grade Elixir. In this Dan Fighting, I admit my defeat sincere.”

The moment he spoke, everyone understood.

It turned out that Senior Brother Chen’s repeated failures were due to his excessive pursuit of the elixir’s quality.

His words almost dispelled everyone’s doubts about the results of this competition, gradually accepting the truth.

However, Mu Qingge did not believe this explanation.

“Alright, the results are now clear. But, as per procedure, I must inspect the elixir refined by Feng Yugui as a witness,” the Medicine Tower Elder responsible for the Dan Fighting arena said aloud.

Feng Yugui carelessly handed the elixir in his hand to the Elder. After the Elder carefully examined it, he returned it to him and nodded, “Not bad, an Intermediate Middle Grade Fuling Pill. This round of Dan Fighting, Feng Yugui wins!”

The result was announced, but there was no intense reaction from the spectators. Everyone got up and dispersed, seemingly disappointed by this Dan Fighting.

Seeing this scene, Feng Yugui’s face turned dark and unpleasant.

He had won, but his opponent, Senior Brother Chen, was not on the popularity ranking. Therefore, even though he won, he gained nothing but fame.

And at this moment, he felt that he hadn’t even gained fame.

“If I’d known it would be this boring today, I would have come to watch the Dan Fighting tomorrow.”

“Exactly, exactly. Tomorrow’s Dan Fighting is Song Yu, ranked eighth on the popularity list, challenging the newcomer Mu Ge. The main thing is that Mu Ge is a Low Level Alchemist yet possesses Spiritual Sense Strength surpassing Senior Brother Mei. I wonder if there will be an unexpected twist!”

“An upset is unlikely. Didn’t Senior Brother Mei say that Spiritual Sense Strength represents a person’s talent but not their current abilities? Maybe Junior Brother Mu has just started learning Alchemy?”

“In any case, even if the outcome is already decided, it’s more worth watching than today. Not to mention Senior Brother Song Yu’s dazzling alchemy skills, I bet even Senior Brother Mei will be present.”

“What? Senior Brother Mei will be present? Is your information reliable? Senior Brother Mei is usually reclusive.”

“Hmph, you said Senior Brother Mei is reclusive, but he’s coming out for Junior Brother Mu. I think the likelihood of Senior Brother Mei attending tomorrow is high.”

“Doesn’t that mean a lot of people will come tomorrow? No way, we must come early to get seats!”

The discussions that should have been about Feng Yugui’s victory were overshadowed by the Dan Fighting involving Mu Qingge tomorrow.

These words, scattered bits and pieces, reached Feng Yugui’s ears, causing his originally handsome features to gradually contort.

…

At night, the Medicine Tower appeared exceptionally quiet.

The Medicine Tower Branch, built on the outskirts of Mimeng Forest, was now only accompanied by the chirping of insects, with hardly any other sounds.

Suddenly, a shadow quietly evaded the patrol and slipped into a silent grove.

Once in the grove, he lifted the hood on his black cloak, revealing his face.

In the cold moonlight, it gradually emerged.

As he revealed his face, a person who had been hiding behind a tree came out and muffledly asked, “Prince Feng, why have you called me out again tonight?”

Such an attitude displeased Feng Yugui.

He frowned and said, “Seems Brother Fu is somewhat averse to seeing me.”

Fu Tianlong silently shifted his gaze, his attitude spoke volumes.

A cold light flashed in Feng Yugui’s eyes.

Soon, he disguised it flawlessly.

He smiled at Fu Tianlong, “The reason for calling Brother Fu out this time is to ask whether the elixir I entrusted you with has been consumed by the person named Mu?”

Fu Tianlong’s eyes flickered slightly as he replied, “If you don’t trust me, why task me with it?”

Feng Yugui laughed, “How could I not trust Brother Fu? It’s just that the person named Mu is inherently sly and full of deceit. I’m merely concerned for Brother Fu.”

“Rest assured.” Fu Tianlong shot him a glance, indifferent.

Feng Yugui’s gaze darkened slightly, then he smiled, “Good, with Brother Fu’s assurance, I can rest easy. Once that person loses the Dan Fighting tomorrow, our major worry will be resolved.”

Fu Tianlong seemed uninterested in these matters and instead looked at Feng Yugui seriously, “You promised that if I helped you, you would tell me how to make Shui Ling change her mind.”

“What, Shui Ling hasn’t given up on the person named Mu?” Feng Yugui asked.

Fu Tianlong closed his lips and said, “Although Shui Ling has become distant from him in the past few days, I can sense she has something on her mind.”

Feng Yugui’s eyes turned as he spoke to Fu Tianlong, “Rest assured, Brother Fu. You helped me, and I’ll naturally fulfill my promise. After the person loses the Dan Fighting tomorrow, meet me here at night again, and I’ll bring you something good. With it, you can make Shui Ling completely yours. Then, will you still worry about her changing her heart?”

With that, Feng Yugui donned his cloak once more and vanished into the night.

Fu Tianlong remained alone, carefully contemplating Feng Yugui’s words.

Suddenly, anger flashed in his eyes as he glared in the direction Feng Yugui left, gritting his teeth in fury.

He discerned the meaning in Feng Yugui’s words, yet how could he possibly use such despicable methods on Shui Ling?

“Hmph! None of them are good people!” Fu Tianlong cursed angrily and turned to leave the forest.

…

As dawn broke, countless Medicine Tower disciples hurried toward the Dan Fighting arena, seemingly fearing they would miss the best seats if they were late.

With an hour remaining until the appointed time, the arena, which could accommodate thousands, was already overcrowded.

Not only were there no empty seats, but quite a few who didn’t get seats were standing in gaps between the stands, unwilling to leave.

This bustling scene was far beyond the excitement during yesterday’s Feng Yugui’s Dan Fighting.

“Look quickly! Isn’t that Sister Shang?”

“And Sister Zhu!”

The Medicine Tower’s top beauty, coupled with the naturally alluring Zhu Ling, had become the biggest highlight of this competition.

Were these two beauties here to watch Song Yu or Mu Ge?

Everyone speculated for a moment.

Hearing the surrounding chatter, Zhu Ling covered her mouth lightly and whispered to Shang Zisu, “I’m here to cheer for Brother Song. Who is Zisu here for?”

Zisu’s teasing words elicited no reaction from Shang Zisu, who remained cold as frost, as if merely passing through by chance.

“Brother Zhao is here too!”

Once again, the crowd stirred.

As a prince of Yu Country, Zhao Nanxing’s presence, combined with his bamboo-like elegance, always gave a good impression. Moreover, he was courteous, never putting on airs, not posing as royalty, and was graceful and refined.

Besides rankings, Zhao Nanxing was likely second only to Mei Zizhong as the most popular character.

His appearance immediately drew screams from countless Medicine Tower women.

To them, Mei Zizhong’s status was too high, something they could only admire from afar. But Zhao Nanxing was approachable, allowing them to indulge in fantasies.

However, Zhao Nanxing seemed indifferent to these admiring women, quickly scanning the crowd, fixing his gaze on the cool figure next to Zhu Ling.

With a courteous smile to the surrounding women, Zhao Nanxing walked toward Shang Zisu.

Witnessing this scene, countless women in the crowd sighed heavily.

“Three of the top five in the popularity rankings are here!” someone counted on their fingers, surprisingly realizing.

Someone beside him reminded, “What three? It’s four. Didn’t you see Brother Diao has long been here?” After speaking, he cautiously pointed afar, seemingly afraid of being seen.

Following his guidance, the person noticed Diao Yuan alongside Feng Yugui. “Eh? Isn’t this Feng Yugui, who lucked out in yesterday’s win?”

“That’s right. I originally thought Brother Chen failed in alchemy because he was too eager to win, giving Feng Yugui the advantage. But today, seeing him walk in with Brother Diao and sit in Brother Diao’s designated area makes me feel there’s something fishy.”

“What fishy thing?” someone asked curiously.

Attracting attention from several, the speaker proudly said, “Hey, Brother Chen is Diao Yuan’s man. The challenge against Feng Yugui might well have been secretly instigated by Brother Diao. Now that Brother Chen lost, and Feng Yugui is suddenly close to Brother Diao, what do you say is fishy there?”

Someone suddenly understood, “No wonder! I thought Brother Chen was usually steady in alchemy, why was he so impulsive yesterday?”

“Shh~! Let’s just talk about this among ourselves, make sure not to spread it. Otherwise…” the speaker advised.

From his gaze, everyone seemed to see the sinister image of Diao Yuan, shuddering and sitting upright, remaining silent.

Actually, no special seating arrangements existed on the Dan Fighting stands.

But at some point, Diao Yuan claimed one section. Whether or not he returned to view Dan Fighting, no one dared sit there.

Yesterday, Diao Yuan didn’t come, leaving it empty.

Today, he appeared, filling that area with himself and his entourage.

Such an explosive scene made Feng Yugui extremely envious. Suddenly, a voice whispered in his ear.

“Are you sure Mu Ge has already taken the elixir?” Diao Yuan asked Feng Yugui beside him.

Retracting his gaze from Zhao Nanxing and Shang Zisu, Feng Yugui nodded confidently, “That Fu Tianlong hates Mu Ge deeply, with a simple-minded nature, without much complexity, easy to exploit. To deal with Mu Qingge, he’s bound to act.”

Diao Yuan glanced at him lightly, his tone calm, “He better.”

After speaking, his gaze fell on the arena. Though the competition time was yet to come, nobody was on stage.

Yet deep in Diao Yuan’s eyes, countless schemes flashed.

Upon learning Mu Qingge might refine an advanced elixir, he knew today’s match was dangerous.

Advanced elixir?

Currently, those capable of refining advanced elixirs in the Medicine Tower, apart from his mentor Director Hua Cangzhu and Mei Zizhong’s mentor Chief Alchemist Lou Chuanbai of the Medicine Tower Branch, were just Mei Zizhong growing up learning alchemy with Lou Chuanbai.

He couldn’t even refine advanced elixirs.

If Mu Qingge could truly refine advanced elixirs, wouldn’t it mean he’s more powerful?

Thus, under no circumstances, could he let Mu Qingge refine advanced elixirs, otherwise not only Song Yu would lose, but even his pride would suffer.

Already burdened by Mei Zizhong surpassing him, he couldn’t tolerate another like Mu Ge.

Time ticked away.

Finally, it reached the agreed match time.

The elder responsible for the Dan Fighting arena emerged once more, still the same from yesterday.

He stood on the arena, moved to the center, raising his hand to quiet the noisy crowd.

“Everyone, the Dan Fighting between Song Yu and Mu Ge is about to start. Please ensure silent observation to avoid affecting their performance.”

Once his voice fell, the surroundings quieted further.

Those present, learning alchemy, understood the absolute silence needed in refining elixirs, to fully concentrate and produce quality elixirs.

Such cooperation pleased the elder.

Nodding, he loudly shouted, “Song Yu, Mu Ge, step on the stage!”

The protagonists finally appeared!

Those on the stands began to anticipate.

Yet, some held regret.

“Didn’t they say Brother Mei cares significantly for this new Mu Brother? Why isn’t he here?”

“How would I know? But characters like Brother Mei, god-like in nature, how his thoughts aren’t something us mortals can fathom, can we?”

“Silence. Relax and watch the match. I have a gut feeling today’s match will be incredibly thrilling!”

In a section of the circular stands, the Wei siblings, Shui Ling, Fu Tianlong, and the other five betting on Mu Qingge gathered together.

Wei Guanguan nervously stared at the arena, muttering incessantly, “Why hasn’t it started yet? Why hasn’t it started yet?”

“Stop it, quietly watch,” Wei Qi couldn’t resist tapping her head.

Just about to retaliate, Wei Guanguan heard Shui Ling say, “They’re coming.”

Instantly, it dispelled Wei Guanguan’s vengeance, focusing intently on the approaching figure outside the arena.

That handsome and carefree figure, unconstrained yet casual, shockingly beautiful, wouldn’t be anyone but Mu Qingge. Her appearance quickly caught the attention of many women in the stands.

“Unexpectedly, our new Brother is quite fetching. Standing before him, I truly feel inadequate!”

“Don’t hit me for saying this, but I personally find Brother Mu better looking than Brother Mei or Brother Zhao.”

“I think so too!”

“Me too!”

“Me too!”

“So beautiful, so handsome! Really want to bear his children!”

“Are you that love-struck?” fellows couldn’t stand it anymore and refuted.

“Go play, ugly man!” Instantly, he faced female disciples’ assaults.

Afraid to speak further, frustrated, he shrunk aside in silence.

“Sigh, he’s got the looks, but how’s his skills?”

A female disciple giggled ambiguously, “Which skills are you referring to?”

“Tsk, you little flirt.”

A group of lustful female disciples squabbled, standing out conspicuously amidst the quiet stands.

Until the arena elder lightly coughed, these Mu Qingge’s beauty-entranced female disciples restrained themselves, sitting quietly.

Nevertheless, prior focus on Zhao Nanxing had mostly shifted to Mu Qingge.

The stand’s turmoil didn’t affect Mu Qingge and Song Yu.

Meeting beneath the arena, exchanging glances, they both ascended the stage.

Standing on the circular arena, feeling the gaze of thousands, Mu Qingge sighed lightly in her heart. The world is indeed full of wonders; yesterday, she was sitting in the stands observing, but today she stands in the arena, subject to everyone’s judgment.

“Mu Junior Brother, long time no see.” Song Yu’s lips curled up with a disdainful arc.

Mu Qingge chuckled indifferently, “Song Senior Brother, you look the same as a few days ago, unchanged.” In her words, she mocked Song Yu’s lack of progress in recent days.

Detecting her implication, Song Yu’s face shifted slightly, and he snorted, “Only good at quibbling.”

“Same goes for you!” Mu Qingge laughed.

This casual and serene demeanor attracted countless adoring female disciples.

Zhu Ling looked toward Shang Zisu, saying casually, “Mu Junior Brother is indeed bold, his calm and composed manner is truly charming.” After speaking, her gaze brushed past Zhao Nanxing.

Feeling the gaze, Zhao Nanxing merely smiled faintly, unaffected.

And Shang Zisu gave even less of a response, as if she hadn’t heard Zhu Ling at all.

Their reactions didn’t make Zhu Ling feel awkward.

Instead, she covered her mouth and laughed, “If Mu Junior Brother wins today, not only will he replace Song Yu but also become the object of pursuit for the female disciples in the tower. This will ease the burden considerably for Mei Senior Brother and Zhao Senior Brother.”

Shang Zisu’s eyes flashed slightly, but she still said nothing more.

Zhao Nanxing glanced at Shang Zisu, then smiled at Zhu Ling, “If this truly happens, I will certainly thank Mu Junior Brother well.” After that, he looked at Shang Zisu’s cold-as-ice back, his undisguised admiration evident.

Zhu Ling laughed and glanced at Shang Zisu again, finally focusing her attention on the arena.

The competition on the arena has already begun.

Mu Qingge and Song Yu needed to write down the name of the elixir they intended to refine, along with the required materials.

Both lowered their heads and wrote for a while, with Song Yu finishing first.

He handed the paper filled with words to the arena elder, and then waited with the latter for Mu Qingge to finish writing.

After a while, seeing that she showed no signs of finishing, Song Yu couldn’t help but mock, “Mu Junior Brother, it’s merely a low-level elixir, why does it need so many medicinal materials?”

Having just put her pen down, Mu Qingge heard Song Yu’s words, she smiled immediately, looked up at him, “Who said I’m refining a low-level elixir?”

After speaking, she handed her paper filled with medicinal materials to the arena elder.

The paper was densely packed with words, seeming to include hundreds of types of medicinal materials.

The arena elder took a glance, and his eyes suddenly shrank, filled with astonishment.

After reading, he uncertainly looked at Mu Qingge once more, who nodded with a smile, only then did he withdraw his shocked gaze for inquiry.

The arena elder’s reaction caught the attention of Song Yu and the surrounding audience. A sudden feeling of foreboding arose in Song Yu, while the audience speculated what Mu Qingge had written to make the arena elder so shocked.

After regaining himself, the arena elder announced loudly, “The elixir Song Yu intends to refine is the Intermediate Green Condensing Pill.”

Intermediate elixir, indeed at Song Yu’s level, now let’s see if he can refine it to top grade quality. If he succeeds, the winner today will surely be him.

After the arena elder revealed the name of the elixir Song Yu would refine, this was the thought of most people.

“The elixir Mu Ge intends to refine is…” The arena elder suddenly paused, stirring countless interests. After a moment, he helplessly announced, “Advanced Guiyuan Youthful Pill.”

Wow—!

Instantly, a huge commotion erupted among the crowd.

Advanced elixir?

A low-level Pill Master dared to claim to refine an advanced elixir? Are they joking!

“Mu Ge actually dares to refine an advanced elixir? Who does he think he is? Hmph, looks like we’ve won the bet, he better prepare to leave the Medicine Tower!”

“So foolhardy!”

The five who had bets with Mu Qingge mocked.

Wei Guanguan turned around fiercely and glared at them, “What do you know! Mu Ge said he could, then he definitely can!”

Yet, it only earned her contemptuous mocking glances.

Shui Ling pulled Wei Guanguan aside, comforting, “Don’t pay attention to them, reality will deliver them a sound slap.”

“Advanced elixir? Hah, hidden so deeply.” Diao Yuan’s gaze brimmed with poison and malice.

Feng Yugui secretly examined Diao Yuan’s expression, feeling elated inside. He seemed to foresee Mu Qingge’s failure in alchemy and becoming a stray.

“It’s actually Guiyuan Youthful Pill? I’ve asked my master to refine it for a long time, but he refused. If Mu Junior Brother can truly create it, I’ll have to get closer to him.” Zhu Ling caressed her cheeks, her charming eyes filled with interest.

No matter how shocked the people in the stands were, the arena elder had already ordered the attendants to fetch the medicinal materials.

“`

While waiting, Song Yu let out a sinister cold laugh: “Truly clueless.”

“You’re too kind.” Mu Qingge raised her brow, smiling with unrestrained arrogance.

The sheer beauty of that face made Song Yu feel a sudden urge to pounce and tear it apart.

Soon, the attendant who had gone to fetch the medicine hurried back.

During this time, quite a few people had squeezed into the stands. It seemed they had heard about Mu Qingge’s announcement to refine an advanced elixir despite being a low-level alchemist, and rushed over.

“Look, isn’t that Senior Brother Mei?”

“Senior Brother Mei really came!”

Suddenly, a disturbance rose from the back of the crowd.

Zhao Nanxing glanced back to see Mei Zizhong’s ethereal and graceful figure moving towards them.

Mei Zizhong’s appearance made Zhao Nanxing frown slightly. When Mei Zizhong was close, he asked quietly, “Senior Brother, why did you come?” In his view, Mei Zizhong’s previous appearance had already made Mu Qingge the center of attention, and coming now would only heighten the tension between the sect and the dean.

“I heard Junior Brother Mu wants to refine an advanced elixir, so I came.” Mei Zizhong answered calmly.

The elixir Mu Qingge refined during the assessment was now in his possession. If she were to refine an intermediate elixir, he thought it was very possible. However, the challenge of an advanced elixir made him worried for her.

Zhao Nanxing sighed inwardly and had no choice but to say, “Well, since you’re here.”

Mei Zizhong’s eyes flashed with a hint of guilt, understanding Zhao Nanxing’s implication. Just…

“Senior Brother Mei, you came too!” Zhu Ling, seeing Mei Zizhong, showed signs of shyness.

Mei Zizhong only cast a faint glance at her and nodded, “Junior Sister Zhu.” After that, he had no more interaction.

On the stage, Mu Qingge and Song Yu had started grinding the medicinal powders.

Song Yu, to his credit, showed some skill, using spiritual power for weighing and grinding. Throughout the venue, green light darted between his ten fingers, and piles of medicinal powder formed miniature mountains on the table before him.

And Mu Qingge? Though she also avoided using tools, her grinding and measuring were simple and precise, not revealing any hint of her current cultivation level in spiritual power.

Soon, Song Yu completed his first batch of medicinal powder and was ready to start the pill furnace.

Mu Qingge had only finished two-thirds of her medicinal grinding.

After careful observation, Song Yu discovered that Mu Qingge had ground all the powder for three attempts, and sneered: “It seems Junior Brother Mu really has foresight, knowing he might not succeed once, so he prepared enough for three tries.”

Unfortunately, his taunt drew no response from Mu Qingge.

As she began alchemy, it was as if she entered another world, unaffected by the outside.

Thus, the elder’s call for silence in the venue mattered little to her.

Seeing no response, Song Yu’s eyes flickered with malice as he sneered, tossing the powder into the furnace to begin refining. By the time he had successfully combined the second type of powder, Mu Qingge’s pill furnace had only just started.

Time ticked by, and silence enveloped the stands, an inexplicable tension weighed heavy on many minds.

Suddenly, a ’poof’ sound echoed, and black smoke billowed from Mu Qingge’s pill furnace.

Instantly, the crowd murmured in disappointment.

“I told you, refining advanced elixirs isn’t that easy. This guy is just grandstanding!” someone gloated.

The five who had wagered against Mu Qingge showed heightened amusement, even provoking Wei Guanguan and others: “If you can’t do it, don’t wear such a big hat — truly humiliating!”

“What are you talking about! If you have the skill, go up and refine yourself!” Wei Guanguan retorted.

Someone among the five intervened, saying: “Alright, wait for the final result, it’ll be clear then.”

Wei Guanguan snorted and turned away.

Zhu Ling watched Mu Qingge’s pill furnace, shaking her head: “Such a shame. I thought I wouldn’t need to ask the master for the Guiyuan Beauty Pill anymore!”

Zhao Nanxing and Mei Zizhong exchanged glances, seeing strands of worry in each other’s eyes.

Meanwhile, at Diao Yuan’s side, Feng Yugui, noticing Mu Qingge’s failure, relaxedly sought credit with Diao Yuan: “Brother Diao, it seems it worked.”

He spoke cryptically, only Diao Yuan would understand.

“Poof!”

“Another failure!”

As everyone discussed, Mu Qingge’s second attempt seemed doomed from the start.

Two consecutive failures brought a hint of joy to the sinister eyes of Diao Yuan.

He gave an almost imperceptible nod and said quietly: “It really seems to have worked.”

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep