Chapter 611: Heavenly Bow Empire Battle Team! (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Heavenly Emperor Powerhouses were not allowed to interfere in ordinary wars, but currently the Heavenly Bow Empire did not even have a Heavenly King stage powerhouse of their own. Of course, Zhou Weiqing could not possibly keep bothering his Senior Uncle to help him, especially since he was immersed in Consolidating Equipment Scrolls.
As such, the only right solution was for Zhou Weiqing to reach the Heavenly King stage as quickly as possible. This time, Zhou Weiqing did not know how long he would be gone, so he needed to ensure everything would continue running well without his presence. After all their plans and contingencies, and with Ming Yu and the officers to run things, there should not be any problems. His only worry was if any enemy powerhouse entered the fray.
Before leaving, Zhou Weiqing left a letter for his Master, inviting him to stay in the Heavenly Bow Empire during the period he was gone. If a large amount of enemy powerhouses came, he would ask the Six Ultimate Heavenly Emperor to take care of them. As for the fact that Long Shiya previously mentioned he would not help him revive his Empire, our dear Little Fatty totally ignored it. In his letter, he gave the excuse of asking his Master to help him 'protect a few people', not to help him revive his homeland. Of course… the 'few people' was… quite a large number in the end.
…
Third day since the meeting.
Dawn.
Six warhorses quietly left the Crescent City, heading directly into the Fei Li Empire and eastwards.
The six warhorses were extremely conspicuous and attention drawing. The one at the head was extremely huge, covered with thick and sturdy looking scales, with a single horn on its head. It was the single-horned Ghost Demon Horse. Naturally, the youth seated comfortably atop it was Zhou Weiqing.
Their group of six was definitely attention grabbing. Zhou Weiqing, Tian'er and Yun Li were all mounted on Ghost Demon Horses, while Ma Qun, Crow and Xixi were mounted on their Unicorn Heavenly Beasts. These were all top horse-type Heavenly Beasts in the entire mainland. Furthermore, the figures and stature of the six of them were indeed massive. Besides Tian'er and Yun Li who looked relatively normal, even Zhou Weiqing was nearly two metres tall. Of course, even he paled in comparison to Ma Qun and the two Gold Crow Tribe girls.
Of course, though they drew much attention and gazes on their journey, perhaps due to their massive sizes, they did not actually meet any trouble. Within ten days, they had reached a city in the east of the Fei Li Empire, called the Green Jade City. As soon as they passed through the Green Jade City and headed east for another few hundred li, they would enter the ZhongTian Empire.
There was still more than a month before the Heavenly Jewel Tournament began, and they had a lot of time to spare. The reason they moved out so early was because Tian'er wanted to care for Tian'er, and wanted to take their time in traveling. Although they currently could not see any outward signs that she was actually pregnant, but he did not want to take any chances! As such, in their current travels, they did not rush or would also find a comfortable place to rest every night.
"Weiqing, I have heard that there is a special delicacy called the Green Jade Cake Roll in this Green Jade City. Shall we go try it since we are here?" Yun Li said to him.
Ever since he met Zhou Weiqing, he had never been able to experience a relaxed day again. If he wasn't researching Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, he was creating them. This time, he was finally getting a chance to rest and relieve stress, and he was happy that Zhou Weiqing had chosen this slow method of traveling. Watching the scenery as they moved, enjoying the good food as they traveled, it was quite a good feeling.
"Sure, that sounds good! You've been to this Green Jade City before?" Zhou Weiqing asked Yun Li.
Yun Li shook his head, saying: "No I haven't, I only just heard of it. You all wait a while, I'll go inquire about it and see which place sells the best Green Jade Cake Rolls." As he said that, he passed his reins to Ma Qun before heading off to inquire for more information.
Before long, Yun Li returned. "Not far up ahead, there is an inn called the Green Jade Palace. We can find the Green Jade Cake Rolls there. Come on, we can also stay there for the night."
Following Yun Li, the group soon reached the Green Jade Palace he had mentioned.
Although its name was impressive, it was just a three story inn. Of course, for a small border city like the Green Jade City, it was considered one of the luxurious inns.
Handing their horses over to the stablekeep and paying for the best fodder for it, the group entered the inn.
They checked in three rooms. Naturally, Zhou Weiqing and Tian'er would share a room. Alas for Ma Qun, he had been abandoned by Crow as soon as they left the Crescent City, so he had to share a room with Yun Li while Crow and Xixi shared a room.
The six of them first went to their rooms for a short rest and clean up, arranging to meet up in the dining hall of the inn later to try the Green Jade Cake Roll.
"Dear, hug!" Zhou Weiqing grinned as he enveloped Tian'er in his arms.
Tian'er giggled, saying: "Don't! I want to take a bath and change before we go eat."
She was not like human females who might feel shy so easily, instead feeling happy that Zhou Weiqing was so infatuated with her.
"How about we take the bath together? Heh heh." Zhou Weiqing grinned.
Tian'er blushed slightly, rolling her eyes at him, saying: "Well, now you aren't afraid of harming your child?"
Zhou Weiqing chuckled and said: "I'll be gentle… who knows our precious will be in your stomach saying… Wahh, papa is here to visit me again."
*Pfft* Tian'er laughed at that, 'savagely' punching him a few times. At last, she fell into the shameless perverted fellow's arms.
Zhou Weiqing was best at shamelessly following up on things when given the slightest opportunity, and he immediately began 'helping' Tian'er remove her clothes. Taking a bath together, such a great temptation, a certain person's 'beastly blood' began to boil instantly.
Right at that moment, a knocking sound rang on their door.
"Who is it!" Zhou Weiqing asked exasperatedly. Anyone who was interrupted at such a time would definitely not be in a good mood.
"Sir, the situation is like that. There are a few new guests outside who have taken a fancy to your mounts, and they are asking if you would sell the mounts to you." The waiting staff's voice traveled from outside.
Zhou Weiqing said: "We're not selling. Stop disturbing our rest."
After a slight pause, the staff's tentative voice said: "Those guests said that they are willing to pay a high price."
Zhou Weiqing felt his anger rising, and he let go of Tian'er, stalking to the door and opening it. The staff immediately nodded at him respectfully and with humility. He could naturally tell that Zhou Weiqing's group were not ordinary at all.
"Go tell those people, ten million gold coins per mount. If they can afford it, then we will sell, otherwise tell them to stop bothering me." After saying that, Zhou Weiqing slammed the door shut.
The staff stood there, stunned momentarily. Only after a few moments did he finally react. Ten million gold coins? This gentleman truly knows how to demand an exorbitant price.
Returning to the room, Zhou Weiqing ignored Tian'er's sudden startled cry as he picked her up and walked into the bathroom. In the misty hot bath, the sounds of spring pervaded the room.
Two hours later, the Heavenly Bow Battle Team met in the dining hall. They sat together at a table in the corner, having ordered the Green Jade Cake Roll and a large amount of other food.
"Why are you all looking at me?" Tian'er said shyly as she glanced at the others.
Xixi blinked and said: "Sis Tian'er, you are so beautiful. Why is your face so red, you look so cute and beautiful!"
Tian'er was left speechless, and below the table, she stomped savagely on Zhou Weiqing's foot. She was originally extremely beautiful, and after just being 'enriched', she naturally looked especially attractive. It was no wonder that the others couldn't help but look at her.
"Err, come let's eat, let's eat." Zhou Weiqing could only endure the pain in his foot and quickly change the topic.
As he glanced at Yun Li unwittingly, he realised that fellow was mouthing a line: Wanton actions in the day!
Zhou Weiqing's skin had always been thick, and he did not care what others thought about him. Looking at the beauty beside him again, his heart was filled with satisfaction. He was growing more and more infatuated with Tian'er.
Soon, their food was served. They were no refined nobles or the like, and they immediately began eating voraciously.
Just as they were in the midst of their meal, another group of guests arrived, seating near them. As it was in the afternoon, and not during any meal time, the dining hall was relatively empty.
This new group numbered five, four males and one lady. Their clothes were showy, especially the lady's. She looked about twenty years of age, dressed in a purple skirt with a gold peacock embroidered upon it. Her features were above average, with a curvaceous figure, though she paled in that department compared to Tian'er. Still, she could still be considered a beauty.
The lady sat down first, and the other four men were clearly very attentive of her, helping her pull out her chair, ordering dishes etc. Their voices were especially loud in the dining hall.
"I wonder which bastard is the one who owns those horses, actually quoting us ten million gold coins, how sick." The lady was clearly in a bad mood as she said angrily. She did not lower her voice, and Zhou Weiqing and his group could clearly hear her.
When she finished speaking, she happened to glance over at Zhou Weiqing's table. When she saw the strange mix of people there, especially the absolute beauty Tian'er, her gaze froze momentarily.
"Xuan'er, don't be angry. Isn't it just some Ghost Demon Horses and Unicorn Beasts, I'll get one for you later, whichever you prefer. Although those are indeed expensive, ten thousand gold should be enough to get one." One of the youths seated beside the lady called Xuan'er said fawningly.
Xuan'er gave a cold humph. "Do I need you to pay ten thousand gold for me? Do I lack money? Hmph, some people just don't know what's good for them. Don't let me know who it is, otherwise I'll teach them a lesson."
Obviously, Zhou Weiqing knew she was speaking of them, but he ignored them, continuing to eat with large mouthfuls. Guzzling down his food, he did not look civilized at all. However, with Ma Qun, Crow and Xixi there, he was not too obvious. The table which was filled with food was swept clean in a short time.
Ma Qun called out loudly: "Boss, another round, same order as just now."
If one had to point out the biggest flaw of the Berserker and Gold Crow Tribe, it was definitely their insane appetite.
Their appetite was no joke at all! For the two tribes to actually run into survival issues, their sheer capacity for food was one of the reasons. It was no surprise really, with their massive stature and strength, it was normal to have a larger appetite.
One of the other youths at Xuan'er's table, with thin lips and clearly with an acrid tongue, said in a low tone: "What a bunch of gluttons1. Xuan'er, do you think those horses belong to them?"
Chapter 612: Meeting Ye Paopao (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Who were Zhou Weiqing and the others? With their cultivation levels, although the youth tried to speak in a low volume, they could naturally hear him loud and clear.
Zhou Weiqing could easily control his expressions, and Yun Li also relaxed, ignoring the comment. However, Ma Qun had always had a character who loved to cause trouble. Hearing someone call them gluttons, how could he hold back. Instantly, he slammed his palm on the table as he stood up abruptly.
"Dammit, you little gigolo, who did you say is good for nothing?"
Ma Qun's height and stature was definitely a terrifying one, but it wasn't too obvious when they were all seated. As he stood up abruptly, he gave the group of youths a scare. Towering at than 2.3 metres of height, he could definitely be considered a giant amongst these ordinary humans, almost as if he were a crane in the midst of a flock of chickens1. Furthermore, Ma Qun was extremely muscular, his broad shoulders more than twice that of normal human. As he stood there now, it was as if a mountain was towering over them.
"I am only speaking out facts, who is the one eating the most and responding is the one. What so great about being big sized, I'm afraid that one could be a a pewter spearhead that shines like silver2, looking fine but useless in reality…" The tart youth said caustically, not willing to admit defeat, looking at Ma Qun disdainfully, not even caring about his palpable anger.
What kind of temper did Ma Qun have? If no one else came to cause trouble, he might even be the one causing trouble! Otherwise, he wouldn't have been taught a lesson by Zhou Weiqing when they first met. Now that someone had actually spoken to him in such a manner, and right to his face, how could he possibly hold back. He was just about to step out when Crow at his side grabbed him.
"Don't cause trouble, listen to Weiqing." As she said that, Crow forcefully dragged Ma Qun down to his seat.
Ma Qun glared at the harsh youth savagely, saying: "Little rabbit, if you talk some more trash, I'll destroy you."
"Who are you calling rabbit?!" This time, it was the youth's turn to slam the table and get up.
However, this time, the young lady called Xuan'er frowned, her brow furrowing slightly as she said: "Ah Dou, how can you lower yourself arguing with a bunch of commoner bumpkins. Don't affect my mood for eating…"
The youth pointed at Ma Qun, a cold savage look in his eyes. Ma Qun did not back down, pointing his middle finger back at the youth.
The young lady called Xuan'er suddenly took out a dark gold card and placed it on the table. "Staff. Send us some of your best food at once. Also, please cleanse this area of these irrelevant rabble. I will pay one thousand gold coins."
By saying that, she was literally slapping their faces. After all, Zhou Weiqing and the others had not finished eating yet, and if she wanted them to clear the site, wasn't that tantamount to chasing them out?
After Xuan'er said that, she even turned to the youth called Ah Dou, saying: "Don't always be so rash. Anything that can be solved by money is never a problem. A bunch of country bumpkins, just chase them away…"
The server had long heard the commotion between both groups. At this point, he knew it was no longer possible to hide, and he quickly stepped forward with an embarrassed expression towards the purple clad young lady, saying: "Young Miss, that isn't too good right? Those customers there have not finished eating. How about, I bring your group to a reserved room? How about that? We have large reserved rooms here, quiet and far more luxurious than sitting in the dining hall."
Xuan'er's face darkened. "No need. I just want to eat in the dining hall, not your reserved rooms. I will cover their bill, let them leave now. I will add another thousand gold to book the entire dining hall."
"But…" Although the gold was very tempting, the server could see that Zhou Weiqing's group were no ordinary bunch as well, and he dared not go over to chase them out.
"Three thousand…" Xuan'er held up the dark-gold card, saying passively. The act of using money to smash into other's face, truly overbearing and tyrannical.
"Young Miss, please do not make it tough for us." The staff was clearly tempted. Though he was not the boss, if he could help the inn earn such a large sum of money, there would definitely be a bonus for him.
"Four thousand…"
"…"
Zhou Weiqing finally finished eating his Green Jade Cake Roll, lifting his head he muttered: "This Green Jade Cake Roll is really not bad… soft and spongy, sweet and fragrant, with just a faint hint of the freshness of bamboo leaves. An exquisite delicacy indeed!"
Ma Qun couldn't help but say: "Boss, when has your temper become so good? You can even endure this?!"
Zhou Weiqing glanced at him and said: "Ma Qun, do you know what reason there could be for a young lady to show off her wealth like that?"
Ma Qun started momentarily, but he played along, shaking his head quickly. He had known Zhou Weiqing for quite awhile, and hearing those words, he knew this boss of his definitely had something else up his sleeve.
Zhou Weiqing said calmly and in a dignified fashion: "For a young lady to show off her wealth like that, there can only be two reasons. One, the one who 'suns'3 her is extremely formidable4. Second, the one who ****s her mother is extremely formidable."
As soon as Zhou Weiqing's words left his mouth, Ma Qun's jaw dropped. At the side, Crow had just drank a mouthful of tea, and she sprayed it all out onto the table. At the end, she turned unwittingly and even got some on Ma Qun's body.
Yun Li had been eating a Green Jade Cake Roll calmly, and he choked on it as he heard that. Even Tian'er couldn't help but cover her mouth to suppress a giggle. Only Xixi, who was still relatively innocent, had a puzzled look on her face, not understanding what Zhou Weiqing was saying.
With great difficulty, Yun Li recovered and managed to force the mouthful of Green Jade Cake Roll down his throat. Mutteringly he said: "Weiqing, are you trying to murder me?"
Zhou Weiqing said with an innocent look on his face: "I'm just speaking the truth…"
Yun Li gave a humph and said: "So vulgar… but there is truth in that…"
"For a young lady to show off her wealth like that, there can only be two reasons. The one who ****s her is extremely formidable or the one who ****s her mother is extremely formidable… Boss, that line of yours is just too amazing, such an analysis, such a brilliant exposition indeed. Impressive, impressive." Ma Qun burst out laughing as he repeated Zhou Weiqing's words, the anger his heart having been swept away by his own laughter.
Zhou Weiqing had not spoken too loudly, and on the other side, they had been haggling and did not hear his words too clearly. However, with Ma Qun repeating it out loud, with the massive volume of his, even those on the road outside would be able to hear him, let alone those just a few tables away.
As soon as the young lady Xuan'er heard those words, her body froze. She stood up slowly, and the rest of the four youths also stood up one after the other. Ah Dou shoved the serving staff aside, his eyes filled with killing intent as he snarled savagely: "You are asking for death!"
A cold light flashed in Xuan'er's eyes. "Tear off their mouths and throw them out. If they resist, kill them."
Ah Dou was clearly eager to impress, and with a large stride he bounded forward. At the same time, an obvious Heavenly Energy reverberation sprang forth from his body, as he struck out at Ma Qun.
Around his wrists, four Jewels sprang into existence respectively, whirling about. He was actually a Low Level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master!
Seeing that this youth was actually a four-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, Zhou Weiqing and the others started momentarily. It looked like the group of youths did have the capital and ability to back their arrogance.
The youth called Ah Dou had the Icy Jade Physical Jewels, a Strength Type Heavenly Jewel Master, while his Elemental Jewels were of the Fire Attribute. As his fist flew towards Ma Qun, thick flames rose around it, causing the entire air around to grow heated.
Ma Qun gave a cold humph, not even bothering to stand up. He raised his massive hand, looking almost like a fan as he did so, slapping out towards his opponent's fist. At the same time, he also unleashed his Heavenly Jewels. Since his opponent was also a Heavenly Jewel Master, he did not want to lose by underestimating him.
*PENG*
A muffled thump.
Ah Dou had come at them so quickly, but his 'return' was even faster. He had been sent flying with a single slap from Ma Qun.
In terms of Heavenly Energy cultivation level, both of them were pretty equal. However, Ma Qun was of the Berserker Tribe with a trace of Ancient Titan bloodline. How could Ah Dou's strength even begin to compare with Ma Qun? As such, he staggered back more than a dozen steps, smashing apart two tables while doing so, before he finally barely regained his balance. The expressions of the rest of his group also changed instantly.
Being Heavenly Jewel Masters had always been something they were proudest off. However, they not not expected that this strange looking bunch in front of them also had Heavenly Jewel Masters amongst them, and that huge fellow was actually at the four-Jeweled stage too!
After sending Ah Dou flying off with a slap, Ma Qun stood up once more. His hands gripped together, making a grinding sound as he said: "You want to fight? Your Father, I, loves to fight the most!"
A thick, heavy aura burst forth from Ma Qun. In the first place, ignoring the fact that his strength was far above his opponent, just in terms of aura alone Ma Qun far outstripped his opponent as well. Having been through several actual battles, Ma Qun had slain hundreds of enemies, and currently when his aura burst forth, it held the scent of blood. How could it be compared to a youth who had never been blooded before?
Ah Dou shouted angrily as he charged forward once more. This time, he was no longer so rash and impetuous. His hands circled twice, and a large flaming sword appeared in both hands, striking out at Ma Qun's head as his entire body flew along sword first.
Ma Qun laughed heartily. He lifted his left hand, and a yellow shield coalesced in his hands. Simple, without flourishes, he just moved it directly into the path of the flaming sword.
That Ah Dou clearly knew his strength was no match for Ma Qun, and the Earth Attribute that Ma Qun had was a slight counter to his own Fire Attribute. In a flash of movement, he had spun to the back of Ma Qun, the flaming sword in his hand abruptly changing directions, drawing an arc in the air as it sped towards Ma Qun's throat.
This change was extremely subtle but ingenious. Ah Dou had clearly been thought by a master, and his actual combat experience was not bad at all.
Alas, the one he was facing was Ma Qun. Ma Qun's close combat skills had been 'tortured' out by Shangguan Fei'er, and he also had been in massive scale battles before. Facing an opponent of the same level, with his own innate talent and battle experience, how could he let his opponent gain an advantage over him so easily?
From Zhou Weiqing's group angle, Ma Qun's body seemed to slow down suddenly, and he was unable to dodge his opponent's attack.
Xixi couldn't help but cry out in alarm, but as she was about to spring forward, Crow pulled her back.
The next instant, the flaming sword swept across Ma Qun's throat. However, a shocking scene occurred next. The instant that it swept across his throat, all of a sudden a strong yellow light burst forth, and along Ma Qun's skin, a thick yellow armour appeared out of nowhere.
*Pfft* The flaming sword struck into it, Heavenly Energy bursting forth, but it did not seem to have the slightest chance of breaking the stone armour.
Chapter 613: Meeting Ye Paopao (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Ma Qun's obviously slowed body abruptly exploded into motion, the shield in his left hand smashing out savagely into Ah Dou, who was in the midst of extending himself in the strike.
*BANG* Ah Dou was sent flying once more, blood spurting from his mouth.
In truth, if one compared their total combat strength, he shouldn't have been taken down so easily by Ma Qun. However, he had lost fully in terms of calculations and schemes. Ma Qun had purposely revealed a seeming weak spot for him to exploit, using his own powerful defense to just take the blow instead. As soon as he successfully struck Ma Qun, he would be extended out, and his state of mind would inadvertently relax slightly. Although he had seen Ma Qun's shield strike out at him, but in his mind, as long as he could kill Ma Qun before the shield reached him, then it wouldn't have much power behind it to worry about. In doing so, he could still act cool in front of Xuan'er, naturally he was happy to do so.
Alas, it was this mindset that let him throw away the fight totally. Ma Qun's strength was so terrifying. With just a single strike, though it was with the flat of the shield, it was more than enough for Ah Dou to deal with. His entire body flew and smashed into the side of the inn.
However, it was clear that Ma Qun would not let him go so easily. After all, that fellow had tried to deal a killing blow to Ma Qun, how could he let that pass like that? The shield in his hand flew out like a bolt of lightning, forming a giant earthen yellow round knife as it flew towards Ah Dou with an ear splitting shrill. If that struck, Ah Dou would not be able to escape the fate of being sliced into two.
Right at that moment, Xuan'er sprang into action. In a flash, she appeared beside Ah Dou. With the support of her right hand, her entire body flipped and a shield of ice appeared in midair, right in the path of Ma Qun's flying shield.
To Zhou Weiqing and the others' surprise, the ice shield did not block the incoming weapon directly, instead deflecting it from an angle. As such, though Ma Qun's shield was extremely heavy and with a spinning momentum, it was still deflected by the ice shield to fly off, missing Ah Dou.
Grabbing hold of Ah Dou, Xuan'er brought him back to the front of their table. The entire process of her saving him was clean, neat and quick.
It had been a good display of her power. Furthermore, around her wrists, five sets Heavenly Jewels sparkled. Her Physical Jewel was Coordination, while her Elemental Jewel was of the Ice Attribute. She looked just barely twenty, yet she was already at the five-Jeweled stage, a Mid Level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master. That was already quite a feat. In any place, with such a cultivation level at the age, she would be considered a young genius. There was a reason behind her pride and arrogance after all.
Ma Qun started momentarily, withdrawing his shield. He gave a big thumbs up, before slowly turning it down. "Well done, very good indeed, you truly know how to hide behind a woman's skirts. You are great indeed."
Xuan'er passed Ah Dou to one of her other companions, and she stepped forward slowly. With her abilities, she could naturally sense that though Ma Qun was only a four-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, the terrifying strength he had and pure defensive capabilities, even a five-Jeweled powerhouse might not be able to deal with him. Furthermore, she was currently extremely furious. In truth, she did not really care about Ah Dou being injured, but she had taken to heart the words Ma Qun had repeated.
"You have insulted me, and more so you have insulted my mother. Today, either you die or I die." As she said that, Xuan'er waved her right hand, and a Consolidated light blue staff appeared in her grasp. Next, an aquamarine necklace, an aquamarine crown circlet and another an aquamarine belt appeared one after the other around her. It was four Consolidated Equipments!
Furthermore, these Consolidated Equipment were not ordinary at all. From the energy reverberations around them, they were actually all Zong Stage Consolidated Equipment… and pieces of a Set to boot. With Xuan'er's five-Jeweled cultivation level, to have a four-piece Zong Stage Set, she had to have come from an extremely rich background, even for a Heavenly Jewel Master.
Interestingly, the four Consolidated Equipment she summoned clearly had a rather unique boost, one that was not often seen at all. When the four equipment appeared, the Water Attribute element reverberations around her clearly grew much stronger, almost explosively. A thick Water Attribute aura filled the area, almost reaching that of most six Jeweled Water Attribute Heavenly Jewel Masters. Clearly, she had chosen the route of a long ranged attacker, and with the boost of her four Consolidated Equipment, her combat prowess was definitely not to be underestimated.
However, facing Xuan'er like that, Ma Qun's expression did not change at all. Instead, his face split in a wide grin as he said: "Not bad, not bad. This girl's cultivation level is not bad! Her Consolidated Equipment looks quite interesting as well… unique indeed. Aiii, if I had not brought my wife along, perhaps we could have some fun together."
Towards Xuan'er, he was not worried at all. In terms of fighting capabilities beyond their cultivation level, in this entire place, who could compare with Zhou Weiqing? He had been Zhou Weiqing and the others for long enough, and his vision and horizon had been broadened to a height far beyond his past self. This Xuan'er's fighting capabilities and skill were not bad at all, but she lacked any true battle to the death experience. Although Ma Qun did not know if he could defeat this girl, he was confident he would not lose to her. After all, he was Lin TianAo's disciple!
"Ma Qun, come back. If you keep wasting time, you won't have enough time to eat." Zhou Weiqing's voice came from behind as he stepped up besides Ma Qun. Clapping Ma Qun on the shoulders, he motioned him to return.
In truth, amongst the entire Heavenly Bow group, any one of them was no weaker than this Xuan'er. However, Zhou Weiqing did not want to waste time, and he couldn't possibly ask Tian'er to fight. He had long decided that in this Heavenly Jewel Tournament, he would not allow Tian'er to fight at all unless absolutely necessary. As for Yun Li, Zhou Weiqing did not think he could get him to fight on this small matter. After all, all these years, Yun Li had laboured so hard and contributed so much to his own personal homeland revival plans. Naturally, Zhou Weiqing would not want to trouble him over such a small and simple matter. As such, in order to settle things quickly, he decided to step forward himself.
Seeing Zhou Weiqing step forward, Xuan'er's gaze narrowed. Although this tall and robust youth had a lazy look about him, yet… with her cultivation level, she was not able to sense his power at all.
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly and said: "Little girl, you might have some power, but don't be too overconfident. Just a small matter and you are spouting nonsense about kill or be killed. Everyone only has one life… one life only has a few dozen years. Looking at you, you're still a virgin right, you've not even experienced the wonders a man can bring you. Wanting to die now, isn't that a shame? Why go to such an extent?"
"You.. you're asking for death!" Xuan'er's voice came out through gritted teeth. From young, she had been lauded as a genius in cultivation, and had led a very sheltered life. No one had ever dared speak to her like that. The disdain and mockery from Zhou Weiqing's words were extremely clear, and her anger rose to the maximum.
Tipping her staff forward, she pointed it directly at Zhou Weiqing. Instantly, a blue light flashed out, and an ice cone formed instantly, flying towards Zhou Weiqing's chest.
This was no ordinary Ice Spike Stored Skill. Its length was more than one chi, and when it flew, a powerful icy cold burst forth. At the same time, Xuan'er's right leg kicked out at a distance towards Zhou Weiqing, and a strange blue circle of ice flew out, moving along the ground towards Zhou Weiqing's legs.
The circle of ice was extremely sharp, perhaps its destructive capabilities were far beyond even the ice spike.
Facing the two attacks, the lazy smile on Zhou Weiqing's face did not change. With a lazy swipe of his right hand, a faint silver light flashed out, and the two Skills that were just about to reach him just vanished into thin air, not a trace of them remaining.
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Such a little girl, but such a fiery temper. In the future, who would dare marry you?! Let me help your family teach you a little lesson alright. This is after all someone else's inn, it won't be good to destroy their things, we'll have to pay for damages!"
Zhou Weiqing's words might have caused Xuan'er to rage, but at the same time, her heart gripped in shock and fear. The instant that Zhou Weiqing had taken action, his Heavenly Jewels had released. The Icy Jade Physical Jewels of Strength were familiar, but on his left wrist, a strange red gemstone that glowed with a brilliant light… something that she had never seen before. What was that? Fire Attribute? No… that did not look correct. Furthermore, he had clearly used a Spatial Attribute Skill just now!
Currently, the two were still fighting, so Xuan'er quickly dismissed her thoughts. Her attacks did not stop or slow down at all, as she pushed her staff forward in front of her, a row of ice spikes appeared one after the other… nine in total. At once, they flew towards Zhou Weiqing simultaneously, each of them directed at different vital points of the body.
Zhou Weiqing's expression remained impassive. Once again, he just lifted a hand, waving it in a strange arc. Another silver light flashed in the air, forming an arc for an instant, and the nine Ice Spikes just disappeared like that again.
What kind of Skill was that? The youths who accompanied Xuan'er were all stunned silly. Zhou Weiqing's actions were just too weird… seeming to disperse all of Xuan'er's attacks with such ease.
Xuan'er's surprise had to be the greatest. This time, the staff in her hands lanced down onto the ground. Instantly, a layer of icy blue light began to spread. At this time, Zhou Weiqing no longer wanted to play around and tease her. Waving his right hand in the air, Xuan'er suddenly felt the hair of her entire stand as fear gripped her. Subconsciously, her body flashed backwards. Right where she had been standing, a silver circle of light appeared silently, the entire air and light around there warping in a violent turbulence. Without question, if she had stayed in that position, perhaps her head would have been separated from her shoulders.
"Your senses aren't too bad at all. However, if I had been trying to hide the position from you, you would not be able to discover it. Alright, enough already."
Zhou Weiqing waved his right hand once more. Another flash of silver light, and the icy cold aura that had been spreading seemed to meet a strange suction force, disappearing once more. Xuan'er could clearly sense the Heavenly Energy in her body lurch and fall, as if being drawn away by some strange force, and a large chunk disappeared at once.
After showing that, Zhou Weiqing just turned around and headed back towards his table.
Chapter 614: Meeting Ye Paopao (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
The Devour Skill of the Demonic Attribute. Towards someone who was at an even lower cultivation level than he was, he could easily Devour their Heavenly Energy even at a short distance. Of course, such a tiny amount of Heavenly Energy was not much use to him.
Xuan'er stood there, just stunned. All along, she had believed that in the entire younger generation, no one could compare with her. With her strength, she thought she could compare to even those younger generation geniuses of the Great Saint Lands. Alas, the sight before her eyes was toppling her belief. Although Zhou Weiqing spoke like an arrogant senior, from his looks he was barely twenty as well. Yet, in front of him, she did not seem to even have the slightest chance.
Anger. Vexation. Unwillingness to accept such a situation. All sorts of complicated emotions burst forth in that instant, and Xuan'er suddenly screamed out loud. "Die!!"
The staff in her hands abruptly pointed at Zhou Weiqing once more. In the twinkling of an eye, a wheel of ice appeared behind her back… the thick blue light slowly turning black. This was the Ice Attribute Element, pushed to the limit and beyond. This was something that could only happen when one used their Life Force to power a Skill!
The originally only Heavenly Energy reverberation suddenly turned violent and restive. Without warning, a pitch black ice spear appeared in front of Xuan'er, floating there restlessly. At the same time, her face turned pale and ashen. It was clear that unleashing such a Skill had a great toll on her.
Zhou Weiqing turned back around. This time, his expression was extremely ugly.
Previously, although Xuan'er had been provoking them all this time, in Zhou Weiqing's eyes, they were just a bunch of kids who did not know the immensity of heaven and earth1, and just teaching them a lesson was sufficient. After all, with his status and horizon outlook, he wouldn't lower himself to the same level as these kids.
However, Ah Dou had tried to kill Ma Qun, and Xuan'er with the attitude of fighting to the bitter end, wanting to kill them. Now, she had even resorted to using burning her Life Force in using a Skill to attempt to kill him. With that, the flames of anger were finally fanned in Zhou Weiqing. He had always been one who loved his life and treasured it so much, and if someone tried to kill him, he would definitely treat them as an enemy, an enemy to be slain.
The black ice spear flew towards Zhou Weiqing like a bolt of lightning. Wherever it flew, the very air around it was warped and twisted. In that moment, even Tian'er, who had been sitting calmly at the table, had a sudden change in expression.
Zhou Weiqing's right hand lifted suddenly. Upon close examination, one might discover that in that instant, his entire right hand had also turned pitch black, with faint glow of purple tattoos writhing on the skin.
Lifting hand.
Grab. As if grabbing at empty space.
To any onlooker, such a slow movement would never be able to affect the black ice spear.
However, as soon as Zhou Weiqing actually attacked, the energy reverberations in the air all around them suddenly turned strange, as if everything was being warped, giving a powerful illusory feel to everything.
When the ice spear entered this warped space, it stopped momentarily all of a sudden. In that instant, Zhou Weiqing's right hand grabbed onto it, actually grasping the ice spear in his hands.
A strange sight occurred next, as a thick grey light flared up, covering Zhou Weiqing's right hand and the spear in a layer of crystalline like grey. Next, the ice spear began to melt rapidly, as if its ice had met with an unbelievably strong fire, slowly turning smaller and smaller before it vanished totally.
By this time, 'stunned' was no longer sufficient to describe what Xuan'er was feeling. She had never imagined that her most powerful attack could be dissipated in such a way by Zhou Weiqing. The strength and power that he had displayed had caused her to truly lose all hope.
Right at the same time, Zhou Weiqing's other hand lifted up towards her, a thick blue light flickered, and a round lightning pearl tumbled towards Xuan'er at a deceptively fast speed, crackling with purple lightning.
Xuan'er's face had already been pale, but it somehow grew even more ashen at that moment. Although the lightning pearl that Zhou Weiqing had shot out was not large, when it appeared the powerful cold in the dining hall actually disappeared, filling the area with the ozone scent of raging lightning attribute.
In that instant, the several youths who had been fawning over her actually stumbled backwards in retreat, not wanting to be affected by the spread of electricity. Shockingly, no one attempted to rescue her, and having lost most of her Heavenly Energy, how could Xuan'er withstand this simple angry strike by Zhou Weiqing.
It might just be a single lightning pearl, but with the fine control of Zhou Weiqing's 'Flying Lightning God Technique', that particular lightning pearl was actually compressed with a massive amount of lightning attribute Heavenly Energy. Towards someone who tried to kill him directly, he did not feel the need to hold back. Even if that person was a beautiful lady, in Zhou Weiqing's eyes, she was just a femme fatale.
"Show mercy!" Right at this moment, an urgent voice rang out. The next instant, an icy blue light engulfed it. It was a massive water bubble. As soon as the bubble appeared, it enveloped Zhou Weiqing's lightning pearls. To Zhou Weiqing's surprise, the water bubble actually severed the connection between him and the lightning pearl.
Next, the water bubble flew out towards the door, up into the skies. After a few moments, the loud explosion of lightning and thunder rang out, as if someone had detonated a massive lightning bomb in midair.
Xuan'er subconsciously staggered back several steps, her body knocking into a table which toppled to the ground. Currently, her eyes were filled with shock. She knew that if not for the bubble appearing at the last second, she would have been blown to bits by that lightning pearl's explosion.
A tall and slender figure appeared at the doorway. "Please show mercy. I apologize deeply on behalf of my sister." As soon as the figure appeared, his words and attitude were extremely courteous, but in a flash he appeared in front of Xuan'er defensively.
When he saw the person, Zhou Weiqing started momentarily. The figure first looked at Xuan'er, making sure that his sister was fine, before he turned to look at the other side.
Four eyes met. The person who had saved Xuan'er suddenly shuddered violently, eyes filled with shock as he staggered back a step, exclaiming in shock: "It… it's you?!"
This person who had saved Xuan'er was actually someone Zhou Weiqing knew… was even familiar with. It was Ye Paopao, son of the Fei Li Empire Prime Minister… once his treasured companion who had been in the same Battle Team with Zhou Weiqing in the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, fighting alongside him… but also the same person who had ran off early and reported Zhou Weiqing's information to the Fei Li Empire… causing him so much trouble… 0
A shadow of a smile crossed Zhou Weiqing's face… a strange, even conflicted look. "Why can't it be me? Is this your little sister? Not bad, not bad at all! So young, and already at the five-Jeweled stage."
Seeing that it was Zhou Weiqing, Ye Paopao's face changed dramatically. If there was one single person that he wished most not to meet, it had to be this youth standing right in front of him now.
Originally, when Lin TianAo, him and the others had represented the Fei Li Empire to join the previous Heavenly Jewel Tournament, Ye Paopao had definitely gained many major benefits. Not just in terms of the raise in cultivation level… even the simple reward of being able to ascend the Heavenly Jewel Island after winning the championship was an unbelievable benefit. Currently, his cultivation level had already broken through to the six-Jeweled cultivation stage, which would have been far above his own expectations before he had attended the Heavenly Jewel Tournament.
Alas, he had betrayed Zhou Weiqing, informing his own Family about Zhou Weiqing's details, and influencing the decision for the Fei Li Empire to break ties with Zhou Weiqing, forcing him to flee from the Fei Li Empire. It could be said that at that time, Ye Paopao had affected Zhou Weiqing the most. All these years, Ye Paopao had also been filled with guilt and regret.
Not long ago, Zhou Weiqing had led a diplomatic party to visit the Fei Li Empire, he had learned about it. However, at that time, he had only looked at him in the drilling ground from a distance for a short moment.
How could he dare, have the face to meet Zhou Weiqing? However, just that single look was sufficient for him to see how powerful Zhou Weiqing had grown in the few years apart.
Previously, when he was only at the three-Jeweled stage, Zhou Weiqing had already done so much, caused so much wind and rain in the last Heavenly Jewel Tournament. Let alone now, when he was already at the six-Jeweled stage. It could be said that the person Ye Paopao feared most was Zhou Weiqing, and now that he appeared so suddenly in front of him, one could imagine the sheer shock in Ye Paopao's heart.
"Weiqing, how are you. It's been a long time." Ye Paopao forced a smile. At last, he gathered his spirits and greeted Zhou Weiqing.
"Ye Paopao, he hurt Ah Dou, and Xuan'er. You must take revenge for us!" One of the youths sidled up, saying angrily towards Ye Paopao.
Ye Paopao swept a cold gaze over him, before saying quietly: "Shut up. Take Xuan'er and get lost. Wait for me outside."
"Ye Paopao, you aren't so afraid of things right." The youth said vexedly.
All of a sudden, Ye Paopao just gave him a backhand slap, sending him flying, fixing his crashed form with a cold gaze. This time, no one else dared say anything else, and even Xuan'er stood up quietly, glaring savagely at Zhou Weiqing before leaving gloomily with the other youths.
Ye Paopao looked at Zhou Weiqing with an embarrassed expression. "Weiqing, my apologies, they are just too young, arrogant and willful."
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, saying: "They did not do anything to that they have to apologize about, just a bunch of kids. On the other hand, if I did not remember wrongly, you were the one who actually let me down right…"
Ye Paopao gave a bitter smile, saying: "Yes… yes I let you down indeed. All these years, I have lived in regret. I have also always been running away from the truth, avoiding the past. Now that I have seen you today again, I know that I can no longer run away. Do it then, no matter how you deal with me, I accept it. Although I had my own reasons for doing it at that time, it is true that I betrayed you… that I let you down."
Looking at Ye Paopao's sorrowful face, Zhou Weiqing gave a cold smirk. Waving at him, he said: "Go, get lost. Killing you will only dirty my hands. I am too lazy to talk about the past, I can only blame my own eyes for being blind."
After saying that, Zhou Weiqing turned back to his own table.
Indeed, when he had been betrayed, he had once been filled with hate and anger against Ye Paopao. At that time, if not for the fact he had just barely been strong enough, perhaps he would have died at the Fei Li Empire, died in the hands of his so-called allies.
However, so much time had passed, and just too many things had happened to him since. Especially since he had gained so much more in the ZhongTian Empire, meeting all his Peerless Regiment brothers. Perhaps, if not for Ye Paopao's betrayal and actions, he would not have what he has today. As such, a lot of the hate towards Ye Paopao had vanished. He had never been a person to dwell on hatred, always preferring to look towards the future. In his heart, Ye Paopao was no longer of any importance at all, just a mere past guest that had once been in his life briefly.
Chapter 615: Ascending Heavenly Jewel! (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Ye Paopao had thought of many possible reactions Zhou Weiqing would have when they met again. However, he had never in his wildest dreams imagined that Zhou Weiqing would actually just let him go like that. For a moment, he stood there, stunned and speechless.
"Do you still need me to send you off?" Zhou Weiqing glanced at him coldly.
Only then did Ye Paopao come to his senses. Gritting his teeth, a complex light in his eyes, he finally gave a long sigh, bowing deeply to Zhou Weiqing before turning to leave. The knot in his heart that had been there for years had finally come loose, but it didn't make him feel any better. Alas, there was no such thing as medicine for regret in this world. So, no matter how gloomy he felt, there was nothing he could do to change things that he had already done.
Ye Paopao left, and Ma Qun couldn't help but say: "Boss, that fellow betrayed you in the past, and you just let him go like that?"
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly and said: "It isn't about letting him go or not. In my eyes, he is no longer anyone important. It is pointless to make a fuss over people like him. Furthermore, killing him is of no benefit to us. After all, we are currently still allies with the Fei Li Empire. Alright, go back and eat, see if eating more can't keep your mouth shut?"
…
Ye Paopao walked out of the inn, still in a distracted and dazed state. Ye Xuan'er and the others were already waiting for him outside, and as soon as they spotted him, they gathered around him quickly.
Ye Xuan'er's eyes were filled with anger. "Brother, why? What abilities does that fellow have that you are actually so scared of him? Are you still a man?"
Ye Paopao glanced at her coldly. "Do you know who he is? If I hadn't come back in time, you would already be dead in there. All of you. I had just gone out for a while, and you all caused so much trouble. If you all continue on like this, we don't even have to speak about entering the Heavenly Jewel Tournament finals, I'm afraid we can't even get past the preliminary rounds."
The anger in Ye Xuan'er's eyes did not lessen due to Ye Paopao's words. "Brother, have you forgotten the honour of our Family?"
Ye Paopao's gaze suddenly froze. All of a sudden, he slapped Ye Xuan'er viciously on the face, sending this beloved sister that he had always doted on so much falling to the ground.
"Honour of our family? Do you know, that person can easily destroy our family. You all want to know who is he? Fine, let me tell you. His name is Zhou Weiqing. Not long ago, he led the diplomatic party from the Heavenly Bow Empire to visit our Fei Li Empire. Yes, that Zhou Weiqing. That Zhou Weiqing who defeated the nine-Jeweled Vice Commander of the Royal Family Guards with his six-Jeweled cultivation level. At the same time, he is also the person who led our Fei Li Battle Team in the previous Heavenly Jewel Tournament. At that time, he was only at the three-Jeweled stage. In the entire Fei Li Empire, he is the only one in my heart who can be called a legend. I was once his team member, and I personally witnessed the countless miracles that he created. Who the hell do you all think you are, you dare to provoke him?!"
Hearing Ye Paopao's words, these youths were stunned. Even Ye Xuan'er totally forgot the pain on her face.
Years ago, when Zhou Weiqing had led the Fei Li Battle Team to achieve the championship of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, it had shook the entire Fei Li Empire. This was especially so for the younger generation of Heavenly Jewel Masters, he could be considered an idol even.
Zhou Weiqing and the rest of the Fei Li Battle Team, and their series of actions and achievements on the Heavenly Jewel Tournament… it had long been turned into stories, passed down through all the various Academies. How could Xuan'er and the others not know about it? Their respect and idolizing of Ye Paopao was also because Ye Paopao had been part of the team!
Just like what Ye Paopao said, in their hearts, Zhou Weiqing was a legend… and this legend had been right in front of them just now!
Naturally, Zhou Weiqing could guess the meaning behind Ye Paopao bringing all these outstanding youthful Heavenly Jewel Masters such a outlying border city at this time. It was clear that they were headed to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament. However, this year's Fei Li Battle Team would no longer be able to reproduce the glorious results of the previous tournament.
…
They rested for the remainder of the day in the small border city. The next morning, the six members of the Heavenly Bow Battle Team resumed their journey, officially entering the ZhongTian Empire.
They moved on for fifteen more days, at a pace that was even slower than ordinary folk riding normal horses. Still, at last they reached their destination.
In the distance, the giant and wondrous capital city of the ZhongTian Empire in the horizon, with the great pillars that supported the Heavenly Jewel Island, a stunning sight for anyone.
Zhou Weiqing stopped his single-horned Ghost Demon Horse, and his eyes blanked a moment as he drifted into remembrance.
Several years ago, it was this exact place where he had led the Fei Li Battle Team to achieve a miracle. It was this place where he had met Shangguan Fei'er and Shangguan Xue'er. It was also this place where he had received the news about the destruction of his Empire.
Returning to this place of so many memories, but things had changed so much already. The current Zhou Weiqing was no longer the young and green youth. He was now a powerhouse and true leader in his own right.
"What is it, did many thoughts and feelings spark in you? Or are you just thinking of your three Shangguan Sisters?" Tian'er was by Zhou Weiqing's side and she couldn't help but teased him.
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily, saying: "All I guess, I don't know how Bing'er has been." In front of Tian'er, he did not attempt to hide his feelings and yearning for Shangguan Bing'er. In Zhou Weiqing's life, not only was she his first woman, it was also Bing'er who had helped him become a Heavenly Jewel Master, saving his life in the process and helping him since. It could be said that Bing'er's position in his heart was irreplaceable. They had not seen each other for years, and he did not know how her cultivation had been after such a long closed door cultivation. However, no matter what, in Zhou Weiqing's heart, she was still the gentle, amazing Bing'er forever.
They entered the ZhongTian City. With the experience from the last time, Zhou Weiqing easily brought the others to the same inn they had stayed during the previous Heavenly Jewel Tournament.
To Zhou Weiqing's surprise, when they were registering to stay, they met Ye Paopao once again.
"Weiqing, you… you all are also here to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament?" Unlike Zhou Weiqing who had already guessed Ye Paopao's purpose, Ye Paopao had not actually guessed at Zhou Weiqing's goal. They had been moving at such a faster speed than Zhou Weiqing's group, and had already been staying here for days. Perhaps because of the old cherished memory, Ye Paopao had actually also brought the current Fei Li Battle Team to stay at this same inn.
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, saying: "Why? Can't we join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament as well?"
Ye Paopao quickly came to his senses, saying: "Right, you all must be representing the Heavenly Bow Empire. Just a short three years, and things have changed so much. Weiqing, may I speak with you personally?" The last sentence, Ye Paopao had gathered up all his courage to say.
Zhou Weiqing glanced at him, saying: "There is no need. The Heavenly Jewel Tournament is starting in half a month, and we will only be rivals then. Good luck to you then."
Looking at Zhou Weiqing and his group's retreating figures, a hint of bitterness crossed Ye Paopao's lips. It was too late to speak about some things, and all of it had mostly been caused by himself. If, originally, he had not rushed back to the Fei Li Empire, spilling everything on Zhou Weiqing and adding fuel to the fire in pushing the Fei Li Empire to treat Zhou Weiqing as an enemy… perhaps this year's Fei Li Battle Team would still be led by Zhou Weiqing.
A few years had passed, and everyone had grown up, much more mature. The way they looked at things had also changed. By now, Ye Paopao truly realised that what he had done previously, besides the slight reason for his family, more of it was because of his jealousy of Zhou Weiqing.
However, now that he saw Zhou Weiqing again, he realised that he no longer had even the right to be jealous of Zhou Weiqing.
…
After they had settled down in their rooms, Zhou Weiqing called the others to his room for a short meeting.
"Everyone, take a seat. Let us discuss the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, which will be starting in half a month." Zhou Weiqing gave a signal, and everyone found a place to sit. Tian'er just sat cross-legged on his bed, looking at Zhou Weiqing with a faint smile on her beautiful face.
As time had passed, the original perverted little rascal had grown more mature and stable. Perhaps it was a case of 'beauty in the eye of the beholder', and Tian'er's love for him had influenced her thoughts. However, in her eyes, heart, there was only this young man in front of her. Even if she may not admit it outright, Zhou Weiqing's position in her heart had already surpassed her father. This was perhaps a real life scenario of the old saying 'a grown girl can't be kept at home'.
Zhou Weiqing said solemnly: "We have already reached the ZhongTian City. This time, we are here to represent my homeland, the Heavenly Bow Empire. Although most of you are not original citizens of our Heavenly Bow Empire, you have chosen it to be your new home. This current Heavenly Jewel Tournament is truly very important to me, and it is the best chance for our Heavenly Bow Empire to rise up. With the sheer power and influence of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, we must seize this opportunity to let everyone know that our Heavenly Bow Empire has returned… returned much stronger and greater."
"As such, we only have a single goal. The final championship." As he said the last sentence, Zhou Weiqing's words were filled with resolution.
Towards this state of his, Tian'er was the most familiar. Everytime Zhou Weiqing spoke like that, it meant he had truly set his resolve, to accomplish this task no matter what he had to do.
The rest of the group looked at him, nodding, but no one interrupted him.
Zhou Weiqing continued: "This year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament will be very different from the previous ones. During our journey here, I have already considered it very closely. In the past, the reason why I was able to snatch the final championship with the Fei Li Battle Team… I can say it was probably eighty percent luck. Even for the final battle, if not for the massive dragon, we could never have defeated the other three battle teams with the backing of the Great Saint Lands. Furthermore, the more I recall things closely, even those Battle Teams backed by the Great Saint Lands, they definitely did not send their strongest teams. That gave us a huge opening, coupled with our luck and hard work… only then did we win."
"However, this time will be very different. Before Xue'er left the Crescent City, she told me that all three of them Shangguan Sisters will be joining their ZhongTian Battle Team in the Tournament. In telling me this, she is not just informing me about the decision of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, but also reminding me that this year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament will not be so simple. There are likely many political reasons behind this… so we must be ready that we will be meeting far stronger opponents than the previous round. At least, I believe it isn't just the Heaven's Expanse Palace… all of the other Great Saint Lands will also be sending their strongest teams… strongest formations. This means that I need everyone to be prepared for the toughest possible fights, not just cultivating, but also preparing yourself in your heart. Of course, as the team leader, I will do my best to bear a larger burden, but I will not accept any failure."
Pausing for a moment, he then asked: "Tian'er, how much money did we bring this time?"
Chapter 616: Ascending Heavenly Jewel (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Tian'er looked at Zhou Weiqing and said: "Besides the bare minimum we need for our Heavenly Bow Empire to continue running properly, we brought all excess funds. We currently have around thirty million gold in total."
Hearing that sum, everyone was surprised, staring at Zhou Weiqing in shock. To bring such a large sum of money, what was he trying to do? Previously, Zhou Weiqing had not told them about this.
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Building up the reputation of our Heavenly Bow Empire is indeed important, but to us, perhaps the more important thing now is to earn money. We can never have enough money, there are just too many ways we urgently need to spend in. Furthermore, I have just declared a year of tax exemption for our Empire, but we have to keep building up our troops. With just our current funds, I'm afraid we can't last too long. As such, before we finish our empire's revival and build the economy back to self sufficiency, we need to get fresh infusions of gold. Only by doing this will we be able to continuing further upgrading and improving our troops. This Heavenly Jewel Tournament is definitely one of the best chances we have."
It could be said that Zhou Weiqing was currently the highest commander in the entire Heavenly Bow Empire, with Princess Difuya only as a figurehead, and she would not interfere in his decisions. This time, since he was leaving the Heavenly Bow Empire for such a long time to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, naturally he had to do something for the Empire during this time.
Attending the Tournament was indeed very important, but Zhou Weiqing had also definitely placed much importance on the chance to earn gold. After all, the previous time he had joined the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, he had won slightly more than one hundred million gold. This time, his capital was even greater, and he would not give up the chance easily.
Of course, Crow had one of the previous Fei Li Battle Team members who had earned much from the last Heavenly Jewel Tournament. Instantly, her eyes lit up as well as she said: "Boss, tell us what to do then? Do we still bet everything on ourselves? We can already earn a decent amount in the preliminary stages."
Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "It will be tough to just throw everything betting on us, it is too obvious a target. After all, this time our capital is much higher, and if we bet everything on us, it will greatly influence the odds. We need to spread our web in betting. Of course, we will definitely bet on ourselves too. Thirty million gold… it should be impossible to multiply it by a hundred, but if we are careful, multiplying it by ten times or more should not be a problem. With the wealth of the ZhongTian public, and the other Battle Teams' 'investment', I have no worries about success. As for how we do so exactly, it will have to wait until we all draw lots and the groups are settled."
Crow grinned and said: "That is your business already, in any case I will just bet all my personal funds on us, that is the safest."
Zhou Weiqing nodded and said: "That is good too. I think all of you can just bet all your personal funds on ourselves, that will be safer. However, when it comes to some critical matches, we also need to be careful. After all, we might not necessarily be able to win every single fight. Alright, you guys have a rest in the inn first, I am going out for a while, to trying and find some information about our opponents this Heavenly Jewel Tournament. I should not be back too early, so Tian'er, you do not need to wait for me tonight."
Tian'er nodded in agreement.
Zhou Weiqing opened the door and left. As they watched his retreating bet, Yun Li couldn't help but ask Tian'er curiously: "Why don't you follow him, all this time you both haven't been apart."
Tian'er smiled faintly and said: "He is going to the Heavenly Jewel Island to look for his loves, what use is there for me following him?"
Yun Li started momentarily. "You know about it? Why did you just let him go then?"
Tian'er smiled and said: "There are some things that are not worth fighting about. If I cannot hold onto his heart, what is the point of holding onto him? If he really leaves me because of other women, that only proves my own attractiveness is insufficient. However, I am confident."
Ma Qun gave Tian'er a big thumbs up and said: "Sis-in-law, impressive. We'll head back first then." After saying that, he stood up and left together with Crow and Xixi.
Yun Li also scratched his head sheepishly before following them. He did not really understand Tian'er's psychology in that.
In truth, for the past few days, Tian'er had suddenly become open minded. This fellow Little Fatty had this many women, why should she continue finding trouble for herself? Forcing him to be so troubled about having to chose. Furthermore, the three Shangguan Sisters were not tough to get along with. No matter what, Zhou Weiqing would not leave her, or leave them, so she did not want to give him excess trouble that could be avoided. She had decided not to fight with them about this, and it would be much better.
Tian'er's guess was indeed accurate. After Zhou Weiqing left the inn, he headed straight for the Heavenly Jewel Island. With the previous plaque he had from the last Heavenly Jewel Tournament, it was no trouble for him to ascend the Heavenly Jewel Island. Furthermore, with his current cultivation level, it did not take long for him to cross the clouds and reach the top.
In truth, even before they stepped into the ZhongTian City, as they neared it, his heart had already flown up there. Before Shangguan Xue'er had left, she had told him that Bing'er was already out of her closed door cultivation, and he could no longer hold back the longing in his heart. Of course, he would still be looking for information about the other Battle Teams, but the most important thing for him now was to look for Bing��er.
"Is your Third Young Miss here? Please help me send a message that Zhou Weiqing is here to look for her." As soon as he reached the Heavenly Jewel Island, Zhou Weiqing did not hesitate to look for one of the workers of the Heaven's Expanse Palace.
The few white clad youths did not recognize him, and as soon as they heard he was looking for Shangguan Bing'er, they were surprised.
The Heavenly Jewel Island wasn't a place that most people could easily access. One had to be a Upper level Zong Stage to even have the right to be given special access, or the only other way was through the Heavenly Jewel Tournament. This youth in front of them clearly seemed to be the latter, and they not know which Great Saint Land he had come from.
One of the white clad youths at the head said passively: "I'm sorry, Sir. We are not able to help you send such a message. Our Third Young Miss will not see any ordinary person easily."
Zhou Weiqing's face grew bleak. "I am her husband, how can you not send the message?"
As soon as he said that, the white clad youths' eyes widened, and they stared at Zhou Weiqing with disbelief.
The leader's face turned ugly, and he shouted angrily: "You dare insult our Third Young Miss? Arrest him!"
Instantly, the dozen or so Heaven's Expanse Palace white clad youths surrounded Zhou Weiqing, unleashing their Heavenly Jewels.
They were all Heavenly Jewel Masters, and though their average cultivation level was at the four-Jeweled stage, with only the leader who was about thirty years of age being around six-Jeweled stage. However, they definitely had the numbers advantage.
Zhou Weiqing said exasperatedly: "I really am Bing'er's husband, what do you mean I am insulting her?!"
The leading white clad man gave a disdainful hmph. "Why don't you urinate in a puddle and look at your own reflection? You think you are worthy?!"
"Your sister…" Little Fatty flew into a rage, stepping forward and sending a punch flying towards the white clad leader, totally ignoring the rest of the youths charging at him.
Instantly, the entrance of the Heavenly Jewel Island lapsed into a mass of chaos and confusion.
Chapter 617: Bribing Father-in-Law! (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Zhou Weiqing was very angry, and the consequences were grave. As a man, who would be willing to hear others say he was not worthy of his woman? Furthermore, it looked like if he did not take action, he would not be able to see Bing'er.
The dozen or so white clad youths were clearly the outer disciples of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and only the leader who had insulted Zhou Weiqing might possibly be part of the inner or core disciples. Zhou Weiqing totally ignored the others, just punching him directly.
Although he did not unleash his Heavenly Jewels, Zhou Weiqing's physical body was already far stronger than any ordinary Heavenly Jewel Master. The step forward was as at unparalleled speed, and all the other white clad youths only saw a blur before them before Zhou Weiqing had reached their leader. The rest of them could only surround him from the back, but they were far too late to stop him.
Facing Zhou Weiqing's punch, the white clad leader was also given a fright. This was the Heavenly Jewel Island, where the Heaven's Expanse Palace was situated. Even if the Heaven's Expanse Palace disciples did not become arrogant from that, they would still have a sense of pride that held them at a lofty position. At least, they had never seen anyone dare to take action here. Even a Heavenly King stage powerhouse would be polite to these workers here. Who would guess that Zhou Weiqing would actually attack him first just like that?
Flustered and caught by surprise, the white clad leader had not time to use any Skills, and he could only gather his Heavenly Energy as he tried to block Zhou Weiqing's punch.
*BANG* Zhou Weiqing's fist slammed savagely into his opponent's crossed arms which he had just put up in a defensive guard. He struck right in the intersection where the defense was supposed to be the strongest. Both sides were almost equal in cultivation level, but the sheer difference in physical strength was just too huge.
The white clad leader was sent flying like a cannonball released. This was also because Zhou Weiqing had held back, withdrawing some strength at the last moment, otherwise it could have just destroyed his arms from the sheer tyrannical impact.
Almost simultaneously, the ordinary four-Jeweled Heaven's Expanse Palace outer disciples attacks from the back reached Zhou Weiqing.
Right at that moment, an inconceivably powerful aura burst forth abruptly from Zhou Weiqing's body. The charging Heaven's Expanse Palace disciples felt as if they were suffocating, as the suppressing force caused their Heavenly Energy to be pushed back, even stalled, making them falter in their charge.
A giant pair of wings erupted from Zhou Weiqing's back, and a thick Heavenly Energy reverberation joined the immense aura.
All of the attacks landed on the pair of wings. However, all the white clad youths were shocked to discover that instead of their attacks taking effect, a vast power instead sent them flying back.
If there had been any onlooker at the side, they would have seen a stunning sight. A dozen white clad youths leaping at Zhou Weiqing simultaneously, and all of them swept off and sent flying by the appearance of the massive pair of wings.
This was at the edge of the Heavenly Jewel Island. In the sweep, some of the Heaven's Expanse Palace disciples were actually sent flying off the island, about to fall down. If they were to fall from such a heights, perhaps it would be difficult to even find a proper piece of their remains.
Several bouts of black light sprang out from Zhou Weiqing's body instantly, as if they had eyes of their own, encircling all of the white clad youths who were about to fall and pulling them back. The giant wings which had sent them flying unfurled once then returned back into Zhou Weiqing's body, hidden once again.
At this point, the white clad youths were now looking at Zhou Weiqing with gazes filled with shock. When Zhou Weiqing first ascended the Heavenly Jewel Island, they had not paid much attention to him due to his youth and his simple dressing.
However, they now realised that this youth in front of them had powers that far surpassed even their imaginations. He had not even unleashed his Heavenly Jewels, and he had already defeated all of them with such ease.
The white clad leader who had been sent flying back with Zhou Weiqing's punch finally regained his balance. The arms that he had used to block the blow were now totally numb, almost having lost all feeling in them.
"You… you actually dare attack us on the Heavenly Jewel Island?!" He had lost so miserably, and the extreme shame turned to red faced anger. He quickly drew out a gemstone from his pocket, infusing Heavenly Energy within. Instantly, a brilliant gold light shone forth.
It was as if Zhou Weiqing did not even see what he had done, instead a faint silvery-white light lit up in his eyes, and the aura around him changed suddenly. In the white clad youths' eyes, after the change, there were only two phrases to describe him. Illusory… boundless…
Under any ordinary circumstance, with Zhou Weiqing's character and intelligence, he would never be so rash and impetus. However, he had been parted from Bing'er for so long, and at long last he had finally gotten to know that she was out of closed door cultivation. He was now at the Heavenly Jewel Island, just a few steps from her, and one could just imagine how excited, agitated and urgent he was. At this moment, he only wanted to see her. As for manners…. He couldn't give a damn now.
"BING'ER, I— HAVE— COME —." All of a sudden, Zhou Weiqing lifted his head, shouting up into the skies. As he shouted, the surrounding Heaven's Expanse Palace disciples felt dizzy, their eyes shocked.
All around Zhou Weiqing, there was a shield formed by layer of silver white light. His voice instantaneously covered the entire Heavenly Jewel Island, the soundwaves assisted by the strange reverberation of the Saint Energy. Zhou Weiqing believed that even if there was a Spatial Separation, with the help of the Saint Energy, it would not be able to block his voice.
"Who dares to shout and howl around in our Heavenly Jewel Island…" A solemn voice rang out. Next, two figures appeared near the front of Zhou Weiqing.
The two figures looked to be elders of around sixty years of age, both dressed in white as well, though their sleeves were adorned with silver thread. As Zhou Weiqing had previously been to the Heaven's Expanse Palace, he knew that these were Guardians of the Heaven's Expanse Palace.
The Heaven's Expanse Palace had several administrative levels. Those who remained outside to receive guests and guide them along, they were all ordinary outer disciples, and they could only wear the pure white without any decorations. These disciples might have differing cultivation levels, but the highest would not be above the seven-Jeweled stage. Once their age reached a certain point, but their cultivation level did not keep up, they would be sent down to the ZhongTian Empire to hold some important positions, but they would no longer be able to remain in the Heaven's Expanse Palace.
However, if they could meet the requirements, they would raise one stage up, which were the Guardians. According to Zhou Weiqing's memories, the Heaven's Expanse Palace Guardians were ordinarily eight or nine Jeweled in stage. However, these Guardians were still considered outer disciples.
As for the true core of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, Zhou Weiqing did not really know what the requirement was. In any case, those core disciples he had seen all had gold thread embroidery around their sleeves, for example Zhan LingTian. Anyone above should be at least of Elder status. Of course, Zhou Weiqing did not know how many Elders the Heaven's Expanse Palace had, but he knew that one needed to be at least of the Heavenly King Stage to be even considered an Elder, and their cultivation level would also determine the number of gold threads on their sleeves. For example, for the two Heaven's Expanse Palace Masters he had seen previously, the First Palace Master Shangguan Tianyang had nine gold threads around his sleeves, while Shangguan Tianyue only had seven. It was clear that there was some difference between the two brothers' cultivation level, though he did not know what they were exactly.
Zhou Weiqing looked at the two Guardians innocently, saying: "I am here to look for people, but they insulted me first. You can't blame me for taking action."
The two old men's faces fell, and the one on the left said: "No one can take action at the Heaven's Expanse Palace. Surrender now, otherwise we will kill you."
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "So fierce! Come and try then!"
By now, he was really angry. The previous time, he had reached the Heaven's Expanse Palace without any problems. Why did he have so many problems now? Was it just so difficult to see Bing'er?
The two Guardians' expressions changed. Both of them did not continue speaking, instead charging towards Zhou Weiqing in a flanking maneuver. In their eyes, how could someone as young as Zhou Weiqing have much strength? Even if he came from another Great Saint Lands, he should not be beyond the seven-Jeweled stage. As such, the two of them did not even bother releasing their Consolidated Equipment, just charging straight at him. The old man on the left had the Wind Attribute Elemental Jewels, and he unleashed a Fetters of Wind. As for the old man on the right, he directly used his hands to strike out at Zhou Weiqing.
Zhou Weiqing gave a cold humph. He also did not summon his Consolidated Equipment, instead the wings behind his back spread out once more as he instantly entered the Dragon-Tiger Transformation state. Strange purple tattoos covered his entire body at once, and his body turned left abruptly, with the wings on the left actually turning silver at the same time. As he turned, the left wing swiped down with a ear splitting shrill sound. At the same time, with his turn Zhou Weiqing was able to face the old man trying to strike out at him directly.
Although the Fetters of Wind was invisible, one needed to use the Wind Attribute in the atmosphere to bind their enemies. However, the old man was shocked to discover that when Zhou Weiqing's left wing struck down, the air actually coagulated around him. The Wind Attribute Energy that was about to bind him actually split into two, dissipating… no longer able to affect him.
Silver Emperor Wing Slash. One of the Silver Emperor's powerful Wind Attribute Skills.
Zhou Weiqing's fist also received the other old man's hands. No Skills, just a pure clash of strength.
Another massive explosion. Although this old man was not sent flying like the previous white clad youth, he still staggered back eight steps before regaining his balance. He couldn't help but think to himself: Such strength!
"The Heaven's Expanse Palace also needs to speak reason right!" Zhou Weiqing's eyes were piercing with anger. Although these two old men had a decent cultivation level, both at the eight-Jeweled stage, they were after all still outer disciples of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and did not have the real legacy and teachings of the Heaven's Expanse Palace. If they were to really fight it out, Zhou Weiqing was definitely not afraid of them.
Right at that moment, a surprised voice rang out. "Zhou Weiqing, why are you here?"
When Zhou Weiqing turned his head to look, he saw Zhan LingTian leading four Heaven's Expanse Palace core disciples flying right at him.
They had not seen each other in quite some time. Currently, Zhan LingTian looked like his aura was solidified and more consolidated than before. However, his gaze at Zhou Weiqing was no longer as friendly as it had been on the northern borders. Besides surprise, there was a sullen anger.
"Bro Zhan, it has been a long time. Your Heaven's Expanse Palace has such great rules!" Zhou Weiqing said to him.
Very quickly, Zhan LingTian arrived at the scene, turning to the two old men, he said: "Guardians, let me handle this matter."
Seeing that it was Zhan LingTian, the two old men bowed slightly and stepped back.
Chapter 618: Bribing Father-in-Law! (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Moving to the front, Zhan LingTian looked at Zhou Weiqing with furrowed brows, saying solemnly: "Zhou Weiqing, you are here for the Heavenly Jewel Tournament right? Since that is the case, why did you come to the Heaven's Expanse Palace?"
Zhou Weiqing started momentarily. "Did you not hear my shout just now? I am here to look for Bing'er."
A cold light flashed in Zhan LingTian's eyes. "Just for Miss Bing'er?"
Seeing his cold and aloof look, Zhou Weiqing was somewhat unhappy. "Bro Zhan, what do you mean? It seems like who I am looking for is none of your business. I have earned the plaque to come to the Heavenly Jewel Island, and I do not need to report to you why I have come here."
Zhan LingTian took a deep breath, calming himself down. Fixing Zhou Weiqing with a fiery gaze, he said: "Zhou Weiqing, I challenge you. If you lose, you are not allowed to provoke First Young Miss any longer."
Understanding dawned upon Zhou Weiqing. "You know about that?"
Zhan LingTian said coldly: "Whatever your relationship is with Second Young Miss and Third Young Miss, I do not care. However, First Young Miss is the heir to our Heaven's Expanse Palace, the next Heaven's Expanse Palace Master. You will not be disrespectful to her."
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, saying: "Even if we discuss this matter, it should be the two Palace Masters discussing it with me. Can you make the decision for Xue'er?"
"Very well, let me discuss with you then. Shall we discuss?!" All of a sudden, a clear voice rang out, with a hint of anger.
The air in front of Zhou Weiqing warped slightly, and the next instant, a figure appeared.
The figure was none other than the father of the three Shangguan Sisters, the Second Palace Master of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, Shangguan Tianyue.
Shangguan Tianyue's expression was even uglier than Zhan LingTian. Looking at Zhou Weiqing as if he was some thief that had stolen his most precious possession.
Seeing that it was his future father-in-law, Zhou Weiqing instantly turned honest and polite. He quickly bowed in greeting: "Greetings, Father-in-law."
"Who's your father in law?!" Shangguan Tianyue waved his sleeve, and Zhou Weiqing felt as if the air tightened around him, forcefully making him straighten his waist.
Shangguan Tianyue said angrily: "Zhou Weiqing, you little brat. Let me ask you, how has my Heaven's Expanse Palace treated you? How has my ZhongTian Empire treated you?!"
Towards this father in law of his, naturally Zhou Weiqing could not treat him the same way as he did Zhan LingTian. Quickly, he said respectfully: "Both the Heaven's Expanse Palace and ZhongTian Empire have treated me very well."
Shangguan Tianyue said: "You also know that we have treated you well? Not speaking of how Fei'er helped you trained those men of yours, even to the point of using our secret recipe and medicines to help them. Just the fact that we allowed you to bring away so many Jewel Masters, how much help is that to you? We even supported you financially in your efforts to revive your Empire… What about you? How have you repaid me?!"
"You little bastard, not only did you take Bing'er's virtue, and you even provoked Fei'er… fine. Now, you won't even let Xue'er go. You little playboy brat! I just want to smack you dead with a single slap." As he continued speaking, his anger grew, and a powerful aura burst forth from Shangguan Tianyue, causing the entire air around them to freeze.
Of course, as the saying goes 'Don't wash one's dirty linen in public'1. Despite his anger, his voice could only be heard by Zhou Weiqing; even Zhan LingTian standing next to him could not hear anything else.
Seeing Shangguan Tianyue's rage, with a sudden thud, Zhou Weiqing just knelt down on the ground, kowtowing to Shangguan Tianyue three times. "Father in Law, I am wrong. I have no objections no matter how you wish to punish me."
Suddenly getting three kowtows from this fellow, Shangguan Tianyue was also stunned. Originally, he had already resolved to teach this brat a lesson. However, now that he was honestly kneeling in front of him, ready to take the punishment, it actually caused him to feel like he couldn't take action.
The reason why Zhou Weiqing acted like this was because he had suddenly thought things through. Simply put – if he had been in Shangguan Tianyue's shoes, having a youth steal all three of his daughters' hearts, he would probably be even angrier than Shangguan Tianyue. It was true that it was his fault for being such a playboy, so he had nothing else to say. Since it was his fault, he would accept the punishment.
However, if it were Zhan LingTian who came pointing fingers, he would not be so polite; he had never been afraid of a fight. In his eyes, the difference was Zhan LingTian was just being envious and jealous, they were love rivals in this matter. Instead, Shangguan Tianyue was his future father in law, so Zhou Weiqing was extremely well behaved. No matter how Shangguan Tianyue dealt with him, as long as it did not cross the bottom line, he would take it. If he wanted to enjoy the marriage of these few girls, he had to pay the price first.
"Get up!" Shangguan Tianyue said exasperatedly. Another flick of his sleeve, and the air around forced Zhou Weiqing up, not allowing him to kneel any longer.
Looking at this Zhou Weiqing's honest, well behaved, earnest and flattering look, Shangguan Tianyue almost burst out laughing. He could not understand how such a brat like this could actually steal the hearts of his three precious daughters. Although Xue'er did not admit it outright, as a father and a person who had experienced love before, how could he not see it?
"Zhou Weiqing, let me ask you. If I force you to choose one of my three daughters, who would you choose?" Shangguan Tianyue said solemnly.
Zhou Weiqing asked tentatively: "Can't I choose all?"
"No!" The flames of rage that had just subsided rose up once more.
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Heh heh, then I shall not choose at all. I'll find a chance to steal them all away in the future."
"You must be daydreaming. This is the Heavenly Jewel Island, where my Heaven's Expanse Palace is. With just you alone, you think you can steal my little girls away?" Shangguan Tianyue said disdainfully.
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Of course I am not able to do so currently, but that doesn't mean I won't be able to do so in the future. Father in law, how about this, shall we place a bet? Within five years, if I am able to steal them away, you will no longer intervene in our matter, how about it? If I can do it, it will also prove my abilities."
"Bullshit, what do you take my daughters for? If you dare steal them, I'll destroy your Heavenly Bow Empire." Shangguan Tianyue wished he could just destroy this little brat with a single slap.
Zhou Weiqing gave an aggrieved look as he said: "Father in Law, I am wrong. But… I can't control my heart like that! I will definitely treat them well. The relationship between me and Bing'er, well, I don't need to speak more about that. For my sake, Fei'er almost died, how could I abandon her? As for Xue'er, you understand her the most. I was intimate with her unwittingly, and with her temper, she would never marry anyone else. Furthermore, she had made a bet to marry me. So, I really cannot let anyone go!"
The more Shangguan Tianyue heard, the angrier he got. Taking a step forward, he kicked Zhou Weiqing on the chest, sending him flying off the Heavenly Jewel Island.
"Bastard! Asshole!"
Zhou Weiqing was also rather depressed. Shangguan Tianyue's kick had not been light at all. Although he did not use any Heavenly Energy, it was still a kick from a Heavenly Emperor! That was a terrifying blow indeed!
*Swoosh* The wings behind his back spread out instantly, stopping his fall in mid air. Looking at Shangguan Tianyue's rage, he dared not fly back too quickly.
All of a sudden, a sudden spark of inspiration struck Zhou Weiqing. In the air, he said to Shangguan Tianyue: "Father in law, please let me on the island first? I have a matter of utmost importance to report."
Shangguan Tianyue was still on the edge, in the midst of his fit of anger. Glaring at Zhou Weiqing, he snarled: "Stop talking rubbish. Get lost now, otherwise I'll beat you up until you can't even take care of yourself. We'll see how you join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament then."
Zhou Weiqing gave a distressed expression as he said: "Father in law, just let me say a few words. If you still want me to leave, I will do so without any other protest, and I will promise never to bother Xue'er, Fei'er and Bing'er again. What do you say? What I am about to say is regarding the rise or fall of the Heaven's Expanse Palace."
For Shangguan Tianyue to appear here, it was truly because as a father, he could not take it, and he really wanted to teach Zhou Weiqing a lesson. Of course, he was still very satisfied with Zhou Weiqing as a son in law.
Ever since the first time he had seen Zhou Weiqing, right up to this point, his feelings had undergone an unbelievable transformation. The news sources of the Heaven's Expanse Palace were far beyond Zhou Weiqing's imagination. Furthermore, the Shangguan Sisters had pretty much each followed him all through his journey, accompanying him one after the other. As a result, Shangguan Tianyue could be said to be extremely familiar with all his experiences.
What Zhou Weiqing had done in the north borders… even when the Shangguan brothers, Shangguan Tianyang and Shangguan Tianyue discussed it, they could only use the word 'miracle' to describe it. To form such an army troop by himself… one that actually had the power to turn the tides against a sure-loss scenario against the WanShou Empire. Of course, there was the support of the Heaven's Expanse Palace which allowed it to happen, or even the Six Ultimate Heavenly Emperor's financial support. However, if it were anyone else, could they even duplicate the feat even if they were given all the same resources?
Perhaps the bigger surprise for Shangguan Tianyue was that Zhou Weiqing had actually dared to charge up the Heavenly Snow Mountain for Tian'er's sake… to cause trouble! And that Master of his, he had actually accompanied him along on such a crazy quest. The craziest thing was that they had succeeded! Besides feeling that it was inconceivable and beyond their comprehension, the Shangguan Brothers could only feel good about it. After all, the Heaven's Expanse Palace and Heavenly Snow Mountain had fought for such a long time. For the Heavenly Snow Mountain to suffer a loss, no matter how small, how could they not be happy?
As such, even though Shangguan Tianyue was scolding Zhou Weiqing, wanting to teach him a lesson, deep in his heart he was still very satisfied with this son in law. Zhou Weiqing could truly live up to the saying 'A Dragon or Phoenix amongst men'. However, he was afraid that in the future Fei'er or Bing'er would suffer in the future if they followed him, so he still wanted to teach him a lesson. As for Shangguan Xue'er, it was true that in his heart, he was really unwilling to let her marry Zhou Weiqing. After all, Shangguan Xue'er was the heir of the Heaven's Expanse Palace!
"Get down here and speak." Shangguan Tianyue said coldly. At the same time, he waved his hands, motioning for the others to leave.
Zhan LingTian hesitated a moment, but with the signal from Shangguan Tianyue's eyes, he had no choice but to leave unwillingly.
Towards Zhou Weiqing, Zhan LingTian actually had quite some understanding. In his eyes, Zhou Weiqing was unbelievably sneaky and cunning. Who knew if that fellow had some method to talk to and persuade Shangguan Tianyue. Alas, he did not have any choice, and he could not speak too much regarding it to Shangguan Tianyue, and could only turn and leave.
Flapping his wings, Zhou Weiqing returned to the Heavenly Jewel Island in a flash, his face still with the aggrieved look.