Chapter 1637 - 23 - 32

Chapter 23: Planned Disturbance

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Since Ling Tian had already achieved what he wanted, he would not go too far. He then took out a silver ingot and threw it at the gambler who was kicked by him. Following which, he raised his head and walked out slowly. With a snort, he asked calmly, "Who are you guys? You guys actually dare to be so domineering in the city; do you still have the law in your eyes?"

As Ling Tian said that, everyone wanted to faint.

This brat previously ignored the law and attacked someone for no reason, beating a few of his teeth out. If not for these people who arrived, that gambler would probably be dead in his hands already. Now he was actually acting justified and asking if they had the law in their eyes!

The men dressed in black had a face full of anxiousness. But he did not dare to offend Ling Tian. Although he really wanted to just slap that brat to the site, Ling Tian's background did not allow him to do that. Thus, he cupped his hands and said, "Reporting to young master Ling, we are the subordinates of the Blood Rose Hall. We have received orders to leave the city to handle some matters. We did not know that young master is here and had ruined your fun. This subordinate here apologizes for that."

Ling Tian then made a soft "oh" and pretended that he was interested, "What are you guys going to do? Tell this young master."

The man dressed in black almost went crazy, thinking to himself, This little brat! Helpless, he could only reveal a face of difficulty, "I hope that young master will understand. This matter involves the secret of the Blood Rose Hall and this subordinate cannot spread it."

Ling Tian then chuckled and said, "What you mean is that you cannot tell me?"

Sweat began to trickle down the forehead of the man dressed in black as he replied, "It is not that I cannot. It is just that this subordinate's status is just too low. How about..."

Ling Tian then laughed as his face lit up and said magnanimously, "Since it isn't convenient for you guys to say it, forget it then. This young master isn't too curious anyway. Alright, go and do your stuff, this young master will not delay you."

The man dressed in black cursed in his heart, Dammit, this still isn't called curious! This is called not delaying us! Now that you stopped us, who knows where that son of a bitch is now! However, he did not dare display any of those as he replied, "Thank you young master, we will take our leave!"

With a wave of his right hand, the men in black weaved through the crowd and continued to give chase.

Ling Tian could not help but be taken aback. After he slowed them down on purpose, everyone who had a little bit of experience would know that it was almost impossible for them to catch the boy back again! But these men in black actually did not give up and continued to give chase! But the boy whom they were chasing after was obviously just a seven to eight-year-old child!

Ling Tian then scratched his chin and thought to himself, "Don't tell me there is something strange going on?" Ling Tian was curious.

The next moment, Ling Tian could not help but scold himself for being an idiot! Currently, it was snowing so heavily. It wouldn't matter if the boy did not exit the city. But the moment he leaves the city, the footprints would be enough to find him!

Ling Tian was extremely interested in the boy who ran away for a single reason: the resolute look on his face as he grit his teeth. Also, it was because of the great control he displayed when he was escaping. That desperate escape reminded Ling Tian about the hopelessness in his previous life.

After standing there for a moment, Ling Tian decided that he would go and take a look. He then looked towards the two servants following him and said, "Both of you return first. If old master asks, just say that I will be back soon."

The two servants were shocked and said, "Young master, we will not dare to do so. Please take us along with you if you have anything to do."

Ling Tian's eyes narrowed as he said, "Since I asked the both of you to go back, you two should go back. Why? You aren't going to listen to me now?" The chill in his voice was full of threat.

The both of them fell into a dilemma! If they don't listen to Ling Tian, he would definitely get angry. Ling Tian was someone who dared to even beat Ling Zhen; if they didn't listen to him, they would definitely end up in a plight worse than Ling Zhen. But if the both of them were to return on their own and something happens to Ling Tian, a hundred lives of theirs won't be enough to repay their mistakes!

The both of them looked at each other and were determined, "Young master, we are willing to accept your punishment. But we will definitely not go back without you. Please forgive us, young master."

Ling Tian was speechless. Looking at his own five-year-old body, he understood that it was impossible to let them return on their own. Helpless, he could only say, "Alright, follow me if you are willing. But let me make matters clear first. If you cannot keep up with me, then find a spot near the gate of the mansion to wait for me to come back."

The both of them agreed immediately.

A short while later, both the servants were panting heavily with their hand on their knees and face completely flushed red. As for Ling Tian, he was already out of their sights. Looking at the bustling crowd in front of them, they could not help but be at a loss. As one of them finally regained his breath, he said with amazement, "I say, second brother, this young master of ours is a real weirdo."

The other servant wiped off his sweat and said, "Indeed. I have never seen a five-year-old child run even faster than a rabbit. It can't be helped, young master went in the direction of the city gates. Let us wait for him there."

Ling Tian weaved through the crowds as though he was taking a stroll. With his small size, he was able to weave through them easily without them even knowing.

In the front, the figures of those burly men dressed in black could be seen. They were at the city gates waiting to exit. It seems that the boy had indeed left the city, Ling Tian thought.

Ling Tian was rather disappointed; with such a weather, it was akin to seeking death if he were to leave the city! With his intelligence, Ling Tian felt that he was blowing matters up.

Is this little brat worth my effort?

Ling Tian shook his head, Since I have already started, let me complete it. With Ling Tian's character, he would not allow himself to give up halfway. Thinking about this, Ling Tian walked towards the city gates.

Looking at Ling Tian's luxurious clothes and arrogant aura, the guards of the city gates did not dare to stop him and let him out immediately.

As he left the city, he saw a sea of white in front of him.

A few black dots then dashed towards a single direction. They were the men dressed in black. In that direction, it seemed as though there was smoke rising from afar and a forest ahead.

As Ling Tian looked to the horizon, he asked himself, "If I was being chased, would I choose that direction to run in?" The answer was: Of course not.

Ling Tian carefully observed the cluster of footsteps at the exit of the city gates and realized that there were roughly the same number of people going in all directions without the obvious footprint of a child.

Ling Tian thought for a moment and walked ahead. Then, with the position he was in as an axis, he turned around to take a look at his surroundings. After walking up to here, the footprints from the city gates were already scattered much clearer than before. As Ling Tian took a closer look, he could not find any small footprints.

Ling Tian laughed in his heart. This fellow is really interesting!

Chapter 24: The Test Begins

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Obviously, that boy definitely put on a pair of adult's shoes. If not, he would have worn a large pair of socks on top of his own shoes. No wonder he dared to run out of the city! So that's the reason! Ling Tian's disappointed heart began to grow excited again.

Ling Tian asked himself, "If I were him, which direction would I run in?"

Directly ahead was the public road; since the organization pursuing the boy was obviously not small, he definitely would not take that road. With a weather like this, taking the public road was as good as surrendering.

To the right was the direction where the men in black chased after. There was smoke rising from afar with a large forested area which seemed like a good place to hide. However, the truth wasn't really the case. Everyone would think that it was the best place to hide, so that would also become the place where he would be found the most easily.

To the left was a small path with less footprints. Furthermore, it was a completely flat plain with no hiding place until a small village afar. It was a long road with no vegetation to the sides. Obviously, this was a place where someone running for his life would never go to.

But with Ling Tian's vast experience of escaping, this road was the safest! Ling Tian smiled in his heart, If you choose this path, I will help you. But if you did not choose this path, I will not help you even if you were to die in front of me! Because that would mean that you are not worth for me to save!'

Ling Tian turned into a flash in the snowy grounds and sprinted towards the left like lightning.

In a small desolate village with only tens of families, at times, the few people who passed by the narrow walkway were filled with hunger on their faces. The whole village was extremely quiet and desolate with a dull atmosphere all over. At times, there was the sound of barking dogs.

As Ling Tian walked alone on the road, his eyes scanned around in search for a possible hiding place. If that boy was able to escape so far, he was completely fitting of Ling Tian's expectations.

As everyone saw this well dressed young man, they all displayed fear with a tinge of doubt within them. Why would a young master of a rich family appear here?

Ling Tian's actions were very fast; he quickly walked through the whole village once. He also made a pick of the best hiding places within the village and found the three best hiding spots.

A test which the one taking it was ignorant about had already began! Furthermore, it was already at its final stages!

First, the boy must escape until here at the very least before fulfilling the basic criteria. Furthermore, from the location of his hiding spot, Ling Tian would be able to tell how resolute this person was. Sprinting here from the city was definitely a great toll on the body. If he was able to escape until here, he must have spent a lot of thought planning his escape. But all of these weren't enough!

In order to meet Ling Tian's expectations, he must definitely hide himself immediately after escaping here! Furthermore, he would definitely require some food after expending so much energy. But if there was going to be a person begging or stealing food at that moment, he would definitely reveal himself. Thus, he had to endure even further!

The three hiding spots which Ling Tian picked out also had rankings. The one at the back of the village was the lousiest of them all. Although it was the most concealed, it was also the most dangerous. The moment it's blocked, there's no chance for escape at all.

The hiding place to the left of the village allowed one to attack or retreat. However, he would also have to pass through the whole village before arriving at that hiding place.

The hiding place which Ling Tian was most satisfied with was a pile of rubble before the entrance of the village which had no way to hide someone! If that boy was able to hide there, his intelligence was at an extremely scary level! If he chose that place, he must be extremely bold, because that was the first place the enemy would see. He must also be extremely meticulous, finding the right hiding spot in a single glance and entering it immediately. Furthermore, he must also have a great understanding of the human heart in order to choose this hiding spot!

This place was just too obvious with no obvious hiding place. Thus, this was the place where his pursuers were most likely to overlook and rush straight into the village to search! Once everywhere in the village had been searched through, this place still wouldn't draw the attention of anyone. The best part was that he would not have to pass by the village at all and would not leave behind a trace.

If that boy was able to escape to this point but not within any of these three hiding spots, Ling Tian would immediately give up on him! He would only be able to barely meet the mark if he chose one of these three hiding spots. In Ling Tian's heart, he would only want the elites with great potential! If one did not have potential, Ling Tian would not even give him a second look!

Ling Tian decided to begin his search from the back of the village. After he entered and looked around, Ling Tian turned and walked out. There was no one!

Ling Tian had a gut feeling that the boy must have definitely escaped until here! It was just that he didn't know where he was hiding.

With a bit of joy, Ling Tian went to the left of the village. This place was an abandoned shed with the walls of the place collapsed and winds blowing from all over.

As Ling Tian walked over, he couldn't find any footprints on the floor. After considering for a moment, Ling Tian decided to walk in still.

There were a few bunches of withered grass which were placed around messily. It was obvious that there wasn't much space in this broken shed. Ling Tian looked around the place generally before standing in the center of the shed, circulating his inner Qi and feeling the movements all around him.

A while later, the corners of Ling Tian's lips twitched upwards as he revealed a delighted smile.

Yes, in this shed, there was a subtle breathing sound. Obviously, it was the boy who escaped here.

Ling Tian was extremely satisfied! Although he did not choose the spot which Ling Tian thought was the best, he was still extremely careful and meticulous from the way he was able to hide here and remove all traces on the snow.

If the person searching the place wasn't someone who was at the XianTian stage like Ling Tian, he would definitely not be able to find the boy for sure.

After meeting so many people, it seemed as though there was no one who knew what "inner Qi" actually was.

Ling Tian smiled with satisfaction and walked forward, stopping in front of a small pile of withered grass. Then, he said softly, "Come on out, don't hide anymore. You are inside."

Chapter 25: Little Beggar

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Not a sound came from the inside!

Furrowing his brow, Ling Tian repeated himself in a deeper tone.

There was still no response.

Ling Tian began to get a little impatient. Since I've already found you, it shouldn't matter to you whether I'm one of your captives, but rather, the fact that you cannot escape for the time being! If that's the case, then you should walk out happily. Did you think that by hiding inside like a turtle in its shell, you would be safe?

Taking a step forward, Ling Tian kicked.

With a "huala" sound, the grasses and the piled up snow flew to the far distance. Below them was a tiny figure huddled up. This was the same beggar that Ling Tian saw who was fleeing for his life!

Ling Tian knitted his brows; such a large movement, yet the little beggar still continued to huddle there without any movement! Approaching closer for a better look, Ling Tian suddenly gave a mocking smile; turns out that the fellow had already fainted! It was no wonder that he only heard such a weak breathing; as it turns out, the little beggar had already sunk into a coma and could just die in his sleep at any moment….

Stretching out his right hand, he felt the little beggar's forehead. Hm, it was burning hot to the point it was frightening. It seemed like he even caught a high fever! This situation was troublesome now. Ling Tian thought of home remedies used in his previous world to treat fevers, but after running through them all at once, he realized that not one could be used in this set of circumstances.

Tapping his head, Ling Tian came to the conclusion that he had to first take drastic measures to wake that little beggar up. Grabbing a handful of snow from his side, he gripped it tightly to mold it into a block of snow, before wiping it against the beggar's face. Under the stimulation from the cold, the little beggar involuntarily let out a moan.

Grasping the block of snow, Ling Tian's movements got faster and faster as he used the snow to rub on the skin of the little beggar. Even his palms could feel the snow warming up!

This was a method which was beyond crude, and yet, it was clear that this sort of method was extremely effective. For patients suffering from frost bites, such a method was actually the optimal way for them to treat them. While the little beggar was not actually suffering from frost bites, he after all caught his fever from the biting chill. Thus, Ling Tian was certain that such a method would definitely bring about some help.

As it happened, after one barely perceptible groan came from the little beggar's throat, he finally slowly opened his eyes. Upon seeing Ling Tian, he clearly jerked in shock. In such a scenario and place, he would never have dreamed of meeting a boy roughly the same age as him, with white skin that looked like it was touched up with cosmetics! It was as if he had been dreaming all along!

Seeing that he had already woken up, Ling Tian let out a breath of relief, before asking, "How do you feel now that you have woken up?"

The little beggar stared distractedly for a while before replying, "Did you save me?" After he finished, he then found out that the grass bundle in which he had squeezed himself into had been thrown to the side. His gaze became penetrating as he asked guardedly, "Who are you? Why are you here?"

Ling Tian gave a slight smile, "I was following you from inside the city. You really can run!" While his tone was light, it was full of innate arrogance as though he was a person who had lived high up in the heavens!

The little beggar got even more panic-stricken, shaking his still-befuddled brain as he strenuously asked, "You've been following me? What motives do you have?"

Ling Tian snorted, the tips of his feet pushing aside the dead grass on the ground, "If I hadn't followed you, then with that illness and the cold, I'm afraid you would be so dead."

The little beggar was struck speechless. With his intelligence, it was not difficult for him to understand. If it was not for the fact that this child who was about the same age as him had found him, he would most likely have lost his life. He originally thought of resting a bit before continuing his journey, but who knew that due to his fatigue and the fact that he was suffering from hunger, he actually fainted.

Ling Tian cut to the chase, directly asking, "Why were those pursuers going after you? What have you done?"

Hearing Ling Tian's words, hatred shot out from deep within the eyes of the little beggar, and his dizzy head also cleared a little, "A death feud!" This sentence was said with gritted teeth. He initially did not want to answer, but in his heart, he vaguely had a suspicion that this little boy standing in front of him could provide some measure of assistance. He now had nothing to his name and was still being hunted down; if he had no one to rely on, then even if he was able to escape for a day or two, he would still be hunted down eventually! He need not even think of taking his revenge of blood. However, this little boy in front of him could possibly give him this chance! His body could not hold on for much longer.

Ling Tian grunted in response, then drew out three pristine white buns from his robes, saying, "You must probably be hungry. Eat this first then tell me your story."

The eyes of the little beggar lit up as he greedily stared at the buns in Ling Tian's hands. With a "gulu" sound, his mouth was flooded with saliva. He literally snatched the food over and began to wolf them down voraciously…

Through his intermittent narration, Ling Tian found out that the little beggar in front of him was called Du Fei and was the son of Du Yuan, a merchant in the city. Their family operated two pawn shops and life was considered manageable. Last month, someone had pawned off a treasured jewel. Since the Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl was made entirely of white jade and furthermore inlaid with all sort of precious gems on the surface, the price was incomparable.

Of course, the Du family did not have the ability to accept such a lavish item. However, the original owner was a descendant of a declined aristocrat family, and whatever that was of value to him had long been pawned away, only leaving this family heirloom. Furthermore, the family knew that the Du family was not able to pay out for such a treasure and thus only listed out a price of 10,000 taels of silver! They set the deadline for half a year, in which the original owner would then use the 10,000 taels of silver to buy back the item.

Since the Du family had been dealing with all of this family's pawned items beforehand, due to sentimentality, Du Yuan decided to proceed with the deal. Who would have known that just as they were exchanging the items, they were spotted by a section leader of the Blood Flower Hall. When the section leader made his report, the hall master of this Blood Flower Hall immediately harbored thoughts of greed in his heart and sent people over to the Du Family, wanting to buy over that Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl for only 5,000 taels! Du Yuan of course would not agree, since the descendant of the declined aristocrat family had said that it was only for a loan of 10,000 taels in which he would return to reclaim the treasure. Besides, how could the real price of this Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl be only worth 5,000 taels? Even if it were ten times the price, one would still probably not be able to buy it!

Du Yuan promptly rejected it! However, how could he have known that such a rejection would bring about an extermination of his family clan? The whole Du household of over a hundred people were silenced in just a night! It was unknown to whom the Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl had fallen to. Luckily for Du Fei, he managed to escape because he appeared skinny and weak, and was thus a small target. However, the Blood Flower Hall definitely did not let him go so as to eliminate any future troubles and thus chased after him in hot pursuit. The present Du Fei had already not eaten in three days!

In this half a month, Du Fei had hidden left and fled right, going through much suffering to barely escape from the clutches of death.

Upon explaining his plight, Du Fei stared at Ling Tian with a hopeful expression on his face. From how Ling Tian dressed, he was definitely not a small-time figure, and as long as he returned home and spoke of this treasure to his family members, then he, Du Fei, could use the Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl as a bait to get someone else to do the dirty work for him!

Ling Tian smiled, "What do you intend to do?"

Du Fei felt his heart aflame as he stood up straight and said, "As long as Young Master is willing to help this small one take his revenge, this small one will gift the Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl to Young Master!"

Hearing this, Ling Tian only gave a cold laugh, "After I destroy Blood Flower Hall, the Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl would belong to me, why would I still need you to give it to me? As a man facing the killers who exterminated your family, you only have this much of resolve?"

Chapter 26: Vicious Oath

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

With reddened eyes, Du Fei spat out in grief and indignation, "Then what else do you want me to do? I don't have any strength and neither do I have influence. Even if I want to take revenge on my own, wouldn't I just be seeking my own death? This young master, even if you do not want to help me take revenge, you don't have to insult me!"

With an arrogant smile on his face, Ling Tian merely said, "Insult you? Just based on your current looks of a stray dog, are you even worthy of me insulting you?"

Du Fei was angered to the point where his entire body was shaking, "You… Don't go too far!" If it weren't for him taking into consideration that the other party had saved his life, Du Fei would have just pounced forward, fists blazing.

Ling Tian stood up, revealing an expression of disinterest and spoke indifferently, "Please do not be mistaken. Towards a person who wants to simply borrow someone else's hand to take revenge, I don't even have the slightest bit of interest to insult them. That's because such a person is worse than a dog! Even a dog will bite a person if it's threatened, but you only know how to bark at a corner. Oh no, you might not even dare to bark out." Shaking his head, Ling Tian threw out a tael of silver as he continued, "Boring! Take this and run for your life! For a person with no backbone like you, don't even think about getting revenge, just find a place to properly live. Even living as a turtle in its shell is quite good! Hahaha…"

After that wave of mocking laughter, Ling Tian started to move back to where he came from. As he walked back he said, "I originally thought of giving you hope, making you strong enough to take your own revenge… Hahaha, to think that you just wanted to use me, hehehe…"

Insulting from top to bottom!

Du Fei's body was shivering uncontrollably. His face changed from green to red as he listened to Ling Tian's provocations. In that instant, he felt extremely ashamed of himself. Every word and every sentence felt like a steel knife viciously gorging itself deep in his heart, causing so much pain that his body spasmed in response.

Suddenly, he heard Ling Tian's final words as he was walking away, "...I originally thought of giving you hope, making you strong enough to take your own revenge!" Du Fei jumped as though he had been given an electric shock and stared at the back of the departing Ling Tian. He suddenly dashed towards him madly, even forgetting to take the tael of silver thrown out to him—no, he did not even register that piece of silver.

As Ling Tian walked, he counted under his breath slowly. In his heart, Ling Tian only gave Du Fei up to ten seconds to grab onto this chance! If he reached ten and Du Fei had not yet caught up, then Ling Tian would leave without so much as turning his head! There would be nothing worth staying for anyway.

"... five, six, seven..." From behind him came the frenzied sound of running footsteps, and the corners of Ling Tian's mouth curled up in a smile.

Du Fei ran over as though he was flying, and had just caught up to Ling Tian. However, before he could control and slow down his body's momentum from the rapid running earlier, he had already kneeled down with a "pu" sound. "...Young Master, please hold up!"

Ling Tian turned back leisurely, staring at the kneeling Du Fei in front of him indifferently, without a shred of emotion on his face!

Du Fei knocked his head heavily on the ground while saying, "Young Master, I desire revenge! I desire strength! I want to personally avenge my parents. Please help me to accomplish my aim!"

Ling Tian stood tall and upright, and saw that the knocking of his head had formed a depression in the snow, and that the "peng peng" sounds created from his knocking were getting gradually louder and sharper. He maintained a straight face without any emotions leaking through, saying, "Sure! I can help to make you really strong such that you can personally slay all your enemies! I can achieve all these! However, they all require a corresponding price! You should be clear that I am not helping you because I pity you! What else can you pay? What can you give me? As long as you can convince me, then you have the possibility of obtaining everything that I've said."

Taking 2 more steps forward unhurriedly, he continued, "This sort of things cannot be obtained just because you kowtowed to me! If you cannot convince me, even if you were to knock your brain into pieces, I would still not be willing to help you!"

Du Fei blankly stood up, muttering to himself, "What can I pay? What can I pay..."

Ling Tian coldly remarked, "The weather here is cold, I have no interest in dawdling with you. Oh, by the way, that Ten Thousand Orchid Pearl or whatever it's called, there's no need to talk about it anymore. This young master doesn't even put it in his eyes. Do you know who I am?"

Du Fei raised his head, a face full of questioning.

Ling Tian blandly remarked, "My surname is Ling, named Tian. Ever heard of the Ling family? I'm the only young master of the Ling family!"

Du Fei was shocked to the point he stared with his mouth agape! To think that the person opposite him was actually from one of the most outstanding families in the empire, the Ling family's young master! Just based on the Ling family's finances, not to mention one Orchid Pearl, even tens or hundreds of them were insufficient for them to take notice! In that case, what could he actually fork out?

Traces of impatience appeared on Ling Tian's face. He said, "Ok, I'll be leaving now. Since you cannot think of anything, then I wish you all the best from now on."

He turned to leave with no reluctance whatsoever.

Du Fei flew into panic. Throwing himself in front of Ling Tian, he tightly grabbed onto his legs while screaming, "Young Master! Young Master! I do not have anything of value to give to Young Master, I only have this little life, and although it may be worth little, as long as Young Master desires it, this little one will throw out his worthless life!"

Ling Tian finally smiled, "Life, interesting, this is now getting interesting. Hahaha, but just based on life, it's still not enough!"

Du Fei was frozen in shock. Other than his life, what else could he give? He had nothing left!

Ling Tian's expression turned frosty as he boomed, "Stand up and listen to me!"

Du Fei's body trembled as his eyes revealed expressions of ecstasy. He hurriedly stood up as he heard the command.

Ling Tian stared hard into Du Fei's eyes as he continued, "Since you managed to think of giving away your life, which happens to be about half of what I've thought of, I've decided to tell you what else is it that I require."

Du Fei's expression tightened. His ears perked up involuntarily, as though afraid that he would miss the next few words that Ling Tian was about to say.

Ling Tian enunciated slowly, "I can let you reach a height which ordinary mortals can never dream of touching. I, too, can grant you sufficient strength needed to conquer all under the heavens, without anybody being your opponent! I can also give you the power to hold life and death of every single person under the heavens except mine! Do you understand me?"

Sticking out his chest, Du Fei's eyes let out a scorching brilliance as he spoke, "I understand now! Young Master, you shall have this little one's life and soul. What I can further give you is my undying loyalty!"

Ling Tian laughed satisfyingly, "Loyalty! Hahaha, I admire you for being able to figure it out, albeit with hints from me. However, I do not just want loyalty, but instead I need your absolute obedience! Even if I ask you to die! This is not just something you hang at your mouth."

Du Fei's small stature suddenly kneeled down, raising his hands towards the sky, "O Heavens above! This little one, Du Fei, uses my parents and ancestors' names to swear that from today onwards, Du Fei will thus devote his unerring loyalty and service to Young Master Ling Tian! If I were to betray my oath, then may my ancestors be condemned to hell, never to reincarnate! My male descendants shall be slaves and females be prostitutes for eternity!"

Ling Tian felt emotionally moved, yet terrified!

In this world, oaths were heavily regarded. The people here believed that when someone passed away, their spirit and souls would enter another world to await the cycle of samsara, then be reborn again. In the past, even for an important matter, most people would only afflict the curse upon their own bodies, and no one ever dared to use his own ancestors and descendants as a target too!

For Du Fei to use his ancestors and successive generations, the oath was severe beyond compare and could be considered extremely vicious to himself! Such an oath, once spoken, could not be taken back! Thus Du Fei could be considered to have burned off all his paths of retreat!

Du Fei was very clear that if what Ling Tian promised would come to fruition, then he would definitely want to have the absolute loyalty of the said person. Or else, if one were to personally groom out an extremely strong traitor and enemy, would he not be digging his own grave? Thus, without any hesitation, Du Fei chose an oath that no one had ever done before, and viciously used it upon himself!

No one would take their own ancestors to crack a joke, and what's more their descendants! Furthermore, who in their right minds would make such a vicious joke!

Ling Tian's face remained impassive and he looked towards Du Fei, saying, "As of now, the name Du Fei is no more. Your new name shall now be Ling Jian! Surname Ling from the Ling family, and Jian meaning the sword! Do you understand? From today onwards, you shall be a sword in my hand! The sharpest, most powerful sword!"

Du Fei, oh no, now Ling Jian, looked as though there were lights shooting out of his eyes as he replied, "Yes! Young Master, from today onwards, I shall be called Ling Jian! I shall be Young Master's sharpest sword!"

Chapter 27: A Problem of Address

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

At this moment, Ling Jian gradually understood what kind of path Ling Tian was arranging for him. Ling Jian could already predict that this road which Ling Tian had arranged for him would definitely be filled with blood and killings, darkness and sin!

Ling Jian! That was a name full of killing intent! [1]

Ling Tian smiled with satisfaction as he said, "In order to become a qualified sword, you must still go through continuous molding! I will be the blacksmith! This process will be filled with great dangers; there's a chance for you to lose your life at any moment! You have to be prepared for this!"

With regard to what Ling Tian said, Ling Jian was not surprised at all! This was completely within his expectations. In order for an ordinary seven to eight-year-old child to become a sharp sword filled with blood and killing, the process would definitely be extremely arduous. The sharpness of a sword is from grinding; the fragrance of the blossom flower is from bearing the bitter winter! This should be the way!

As Ling Jian faced Ling Tian, he felt that this young master of his was definitely not an ordinary young master of an aristocratic family. In front of Ling Tian, Ling Jian felt as though he was unable to hide anything at all! It was as though he was completely naked with all of his secrets laid bare, including the deepest parts of his soul!

In truth, Ling Tian was a few years younger than him. Ling Jian was puzzled: How will Ling Tian mold me into an expert able to stand on top of the world? But he did not dare to say that aloud.

Seeing Ling Jian's doubtful face, Ling Tian laughed as he said calmly, "Follow me." Then, Ling Tian began to walk forward. After a few steps, he grabbed a fist-sized rock which was covered by snow and smiled at Ling Jian. As he rubbed his hands lightly, the hard rock immediately became dust, falling down from Ling Tian's palms.

After slapping his hands a few time, Ling Tian then asked, "Are you confident now?"

Ling Jian was dumbfounded! Following which, he broke out into ecstasy, his whole body trembling in excitement! Thinking about how he was doubtful, Ling Jian could not help but say with embarrassment, "This subordinate deserves to die! I actually doubted young master. Please punish me, young master."

Ling Tian ignored him and continued walking forward as his voice sounded, "It can't be blamed on you! But I hope that you will never doubt me again!"

Ling Jian's eyes began to burn, "Yes, young master!" Then, he followed his young master as he suddenly felt that the world was filled with hope and life! He felt a sense of excitement and relaxation which he had never felt before in his life!

In front, Ling Tian suddenly stopped as his face turned serious. Ling Jian felt his heart skip a beat as he quickly cupped his hands in respect, not knowing what his young master wanted to say.

He then heard Ling Tian saying, "Err, Ling Jian, don't call me young master in future, I do not like those two words. You can just call me young noble."

Ling Jian immediately agreed as he was puzzled as to why his young master would not allow himself to be called young master. Isn't young master and young noble the same thing? Changing the address is just like changing the taste of the medicine without changing the prescription. Although he was puzzled, he could only bury the doubts in his heart. As he looked at Ling Tian's expression, it seemed extremely strange with his face even blushing slightly. It was as though Ling Tian felt embarrassed. Ling Jian immediately became even more puzzled.

How would Ling Jian know that Ling Tian had suddenly remembered that in his previous life, there were some young men in the high class clubs who were officially known as public relations staff, but in reality, their job was to accompany the rich women? Furthermore, they were commonly known as "young master".

My goodness! I only just realized it! Ling Tian suddenly realized that all of the maids and outsiders seemed to have a single way of addressing him: Young Master. This even included all of his aunts...

*Pukes*

Ling Tian suddenly made the sound of one vomiting while walking. Following which, he began to vomit non-stop as his face became pale...

Ling Jian who was behind had a face full of bewilderment. Just what is wrong with young master?

When the both of them arrived at the city gates, it was already in the afternoon. Facing the guards of the city gates, Ling Tian showed a jade talisman and the guards respectfully received the two boys.

The two servants were waiting anxiously in the city with their necks long from waiting.

As time slowly passed, the both of them became more and more worried. As they thought about the punishment they would receive if they lost the young master, they began to have blank looks on their faces as their body was on the verge of collapsing.

Finally, they saw Ling Tian walking in slowly from the city gates with his footsteps shaky and face pale...

Both the servants dashed forward as though they saw a treasure, with tears almost coming out of their eyes, "Young master, you are finally back. Eh? Young master, what is wrong with you? Why is your face so pale? Are you sick, young master?"

Ling Tian stared at the two servants with a vicious look. Hearing them call him young master, Ling Tian wanted to swallow them alive! He then snapped at them, "Don't call me young master!"

Both of the servants looked towards each other as they thought, Don't tell me young master became possessed after leaving the city? Concern filled their eyes as they asked, "Young master, you…"

Before they even finished their sentence, Ling Tian began to fly into a fit of rage, "Don't call me young master! I don't allow you to call me young master! Dammit, are you guys deaf? If you guys call me young master again, I will skin you guys alive!" Ling Tian was enraged! Being at the peak of his anger, Ling Tian began to curse!

At that moment, the city gates were filled with pin drop silence!

The section of ten men who were about to send Ling Tian back all stared at each other as they thought: This young master of the Ling family is actually so fierce to his servants even at such a young age! He actually cursed them in public like that! At that moment, all of them began to lament for general Ling, His son is really unlike him…

The two servants almost wanted to cry, "Young…"

Ling Tian was completely depressed! Hearing that they almost called him "young master" again, he could not help but roar, "F**K!" His voice sounded like thunder; everyone around could hear it...

With a darkened face, Ling Tian brought Ling Jian into a small sedan which the city guards prepared like a volcano which was about to explode.

Ling Jian did not dare to sit in the sedan, but with a little bit of force, Ling Tian easily carried him up! In the end, Ling Tian used too much force and Ling Jian's shoulder was dislocated with a "pop" sound...

Chapter 28: City Gates Rumors

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

When Ling Tian got up the sedan and left the city gates, a procession of luxurious carriages covered in a black cloth entered slowly into the city gates. There were golden chrysanthemum flowers weaved upon the carriages' exterior. As the city gates saw the golden chrysanthemum, they immediately stood at attention, saluting with their spears. They did not even check the carriage at all as it entered the city without reducing its speed. It was as though they were used to seeing the reaction of the guards and did not have any reaction.

As the commander of the guards saw the carriages enter the city, he wiped the sweat which had formed on his forehead as he exclaimed with fright in his voice, "My goodness, what day is it today? Why did this person enter the city?"

By the side, a young soldier with face full of acne asked curiously, "Sir, who is that? Why does he look so arrogant—"

Before he got to finish his sentence, his mouth was covered by the captain, "Little ancestor of mine, will you die if you do not say anything? Are you trying to kill us all?"

All of the older troops then gave a deathly glare at the "genius" who almost caused trouble for them, rushing forward to give him a good beating. A short while later as they saw the carriages leave, the captain said with a trembling voice, "That was so close... It seems that his mood is pretty good today. You bastard! When you go off duty later, go and punish yourself with the whip. In future, don't ask things that you are not supposed to!" All of the older soldiers began to nod in agreement.

In the front- most carriage, the curtains of the sedan were lifted and a cute head popped out of it. She was a four to five-year-old child with black hair, soft skin and beautiful eyebrows. Her lips were thin with big and shiny eyes. Despite her young age, everyone was able to tell with a single look that she was a beauty. When she grows up, she would definitely be a rare gem.

At that very moment, her red lips were chewing onto some snacks as she asked, "Grandpa, so this is the capital? Wow, it's so big! There are so many people! Look there, it's so pretty…" Her voice was extremely attractive. As she said that, she looked around with her black eyes.

In the carriage, an old voice sounded, "Mmm, my good Xue'er, this is the capital. Back then, grandpa stayed here for 20 years…" Speaking to this point, his old voice was already filled with a deep sigh as though he was reminiscing something.

The little girl, Xue'er, was naturally unable to understand her grandfather's feelings. Her head was still stuck out of the window as she looked around in excitement. At times, she also screamed out, "Wow! Look there, look there, there is a pretty lantern..."

"Grandpa, quickly take a look, there is a monkey on his shoulder... Hehehe... Oi, little monkey…"

"Look there, look there, there are haw balls there, help me buy a stick of that. Yes yes yes, quickly! Oh no, hmph!"

In the carriage, a 50 to 60-year-old man dressed in a pair of purple robes sat on the rocking carriage, looking at his granddaughter scream and shout in excitement excitedly with a doting smile. His eyes then narrowed for a moment as he thought, Imperial capital... I, Xiao FengHan, am back…

Outside the carriage, there were people pulling in sales, sounds of bargaining, the cries of children, various chatters and more. Suddenly, as though the old man heard something, his face changed and he stretched out his right hand from the window and gave a mysterious hand sign.

The whole procession of carriages suddenly stopped. In fact, they did not stop completely; their speed slowed down to a point where it was 10 times slower than before. In the eyes of an ordinary individual, this procession of carriages was as good as stationary...

The little girl was the most excited as she jumped off the carriage and ran towards the hawker selling the haw balls. She then took a stick of them, smiling as she ate it.

The hawker was stunned for a moment; looking at this adorable child, he had forgotten to collect money from him for a moment. After being in a short daze, a large hand stretched out by the side with an ingot of silver falling into his hands. Just when the hawker wanted to give his thanks, the person ignored and walked away. For a moment there, the hawker felt that he was in a dream.

A short distance away from the carriage, there were a few people discussing something, with their saliva flying all around. The thing which drew the attention of the old man in the carriage was the conversation among these men.

In the carriage, the eyes of the old men were shut as the words of the men flowed into his ears without a single word missing.

"...Do you guys know? Something happened at the city gates just now."

"Oh, what happened?"

"Hehe, do you guys know about the Ling mansion? The young master of the Ling family was creating a scene at the city gates just now."

"Ah? You're referring to young master Ling Tian? I've heard about it already. Despite his young age, he is extremely domineering. I even heard that he almost beat his cousin to death on the first lesson with his teacher. Furthermore, he even hit the teacher…"

"Mm mm, I have also heard about that. The rumors are indeed true. Right at the city gates just now, his guards did not offend him and had only called him "young master" once. But he was not willing to accept that address and scolded them on the spot. The words he used were just too unpleasant to the ears, and he even knocked two teeth out from that guard of his. Just what is wrong with his guards calling him young master? Such a young child is really…" As he said that, he shook his head with a look of disdain.

"This isn't considered much, at least he is still beating up someone from his own family. I heard that in the afternoon on Azure Dragon Street, he beat someone up for no good reason, crippling that person. At that time, the person was tens of feet away from him and did not even provoke him at all. He is just domineering to the extreme…"

"Ah, isn't anyone from his family going to discipline him?" This person was someone who had just joined the conversation.

"Cheh, what do you know? This young master is the son of general Ling, the only grandson of Duke Ling. Who would dare to discipline him? As for his own family, they can't wait to dote on him. Discipline? You must be dreaming! With the strength of the Ling family, not to mention beating a few people up, he would be fine even if he killed a few hundred innocent people!"

"Haiz, if this child were to grow up, he will be another plague in the capital!" Someone shook his head with a sigh.

"When he grows up? Brother, he is already a plague in the capital right now!"

"Haiz, I was referring to the large amount of ladies who are going to suffer in his hands when he grows up. I heard that when this young master was going through the "one-year-old catch" ceremony, he caught the fragrance bag of his aunt! I heard that Duke Ling had thrown out all of the fragrance bags from the mansion back then, afraid that he would pick that. In the end, the consort herself had one. But this child refused to pick anything up at the beginning, only catching the fragrance bag the moment his aunt arrived… He will definitely be a lecher when he grows up! Hehehe…"

"Ah? There was this matter as well? Thankfully, I do not have a daughter. If not, she will definitely be destroyed by him. I won't even have a place to go to if I want to file a report to him…"

"Scram, with that face of yours, it would be good if someone would want your daughter. Just who is young master Ling Tian, would he take fancy to your daughter?"

"..."

"..."

In the carriage, the purple-robed elder's face became uglier and uglier by the second. As he heard till the end, his face had already turned completely ashen. His chest began to rise and fall with his heavy breathing as his eyes were burning with rage. He then scolded hatefully, "Dammit, you old bastard! This is the grandson-in-law you are giving me?! This old man will not let you off!"

Chapter 29: Three Year Plan

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

The little girl had long climbed up the chariot, and seeing her grandfather fuming in anger, she giggled. Her little body barreling towards her grandfather's embrace, she said, "Grandpa, don't be angry, Xue'er will give you some haw ball, hehehe…"

While chewing on the sour-sweet haw ball in her mouth, the old man could only reluctantly squeeze out a smile, stretching out a hand to caress his granddaughter's hair. However, his heart remained extremely heavy. If this is the case, then wouldn't it be this bag of old bones ruining my granddaughter's marriage? He took yet another long sigh, steeling his heart that after the audience with the emperor, he would immediately head to condemn that disgraceful old fogey!

Slightly in front of the purple-robed old man's chariot which was emblazoned with the symbol of a golden chrysanthemum flower, there was a chariot with over ten soldiers escorting. Inside that chariot, Ling Tian was reclined inside without any poise whatsoever. Opposite him sat Ling Jian in an upright position, showing extreme respect towards him. His hands and legs seemed to have no place to comfortably rest on, making him look as though he was extremely uncomfortable.

Ling Tian cast a glance at him before speaking, "Ling Jian."

Ling Jian hurriedly shot up straight, "Young noble, this little one is here. Awaiting your instructions." At this moment, after witnessing for himself the power of Ling Tian, the latter in Ling Jian's heart was not simply just his master and person to show loyalty towards, but rather more like a deity to worship! In his life, this was the first time he had seen someone actually use a pair of bare hands to grind limestone into powder! Don't even talk about seeing it, Ling Jian had never even heard of such a thing! Even the legends did not speak of such an incident happening...

Ling Tian could only heave a sigh, "Sit down, Ling Jian. Next time when you're around me, there's no need to be so respectful and cautious; I'm not used to it. Just revert back to your original personality, that would be fine."

Ling Jian sprang upright, "Yes! Young Master!"

Letting out a groan, Ling Tian tossed his hands up in defeat, saying, "Forget it, do as you wish."

Ling Jian returned to his seat, but still kept his body ramrod straight.

"Ling Jian, how old are you right now?"

"Replying young noble, I'm currently nine."

"Oh, already nine years old, that's a little late. Have you practiced any martial skills in the past?"

"Replying young noble, I have not. I only learnt some body-strengthening methods from the martial arts instructors in the Protection Courts."

"Oh, then no wonder." As to what he suspected, Ling Tian did not say, but Ling Jian understood it in his heart. It was probably this little bit of insignificant foundation that was the reason that mysteriously allowed him to be noticed by Ling Tian. At this moment, in Ling Jian's heart, he could not help but feel gratitude for the instructor who had taught him a little of the body-strengthening art!

"Ling Jian, you were still feverish just now. How are you right now? Do you still feel dizzy?"

Ling Jian felt his eyes start to sting, after being on the run for nearly a month and having tasted the coldness of human emotions, this was the first time someone had really cared for his well-being! "Thank you for the attention, Young Master, I no longer feel dizzy."

"Hm, this shows that your body constitution is passable. I will follow suit and include a regime of training meant to help you to resist the influence of drugs and poison. In future, this will be an asset to further guard your life."

Ling Tian pondered for awhile more, before slowly speaking, "Ling Jian, right now, listen carefully to the arrangements that I've made for you and what I can help you with."

Ling Jian had an expression full of excitement and emotion as he respectfully replied, "Yes! May young noble please instruct me."

"On the side of your enemies, what I can do is, within these three years, I will not lay a single finger on Blood Rose Hall! Do you understand what I'm saying?" Ling Tian slowly spoke.

Feelings of gratitude appeared in the eyes of Ling Jian, as he replied, "Yes! Ling Jian understands!" He could completely understand the underlying meaning of Ling Tian's words, which was to leave the annihilation of Blood Rose Hall to him, so as to allow him the chance to personally avenge his blood feud! As a son, he wanted to use the fresh blood of his enemies to comfort his parents' souls in heaven!

Ling Tian let out a satisfied smile, "As the first sword under me, three years later would be the time to test out this sword of mine! As for Blood Rose Hall, it will serve as the first whetstone for your growth! In these three years, I will not do anything towards Blood Rose Hall! Neither will I bother to put pressure on them! However, after three years, I want the entire Blood Rose Hall to completely and entirely disappear by your hands! No matter how large they've grown!"

Ling Jian silently listened, his eyes flashing with bloodthirst. Upon visualizing the scene of the members in Blood Rose Hall falling under his sword as well as moaning and begging for forgiveness, his eyes lit up with excitement.

Pausing for a moment, Ling Tian lazily continued, "In these three years, I will teach you the pinnacle of killing sword arts in this world, increasing your killing skills on all fronts. If you aren't able to annihilate Blood Rose Hall after three years of me coaching you, then I will personally silence you!" The moment he reached the last sentence, Ling Tian's tone turned exceptionally severe!

Ling Jian felt a jolt pass through his entire body and his eyes turned steely! Biting off each word clearly, he replied, "Young noble, rest assured. If after the painstaking effort by young noble yourself, I still am unable to demolish Blood Rose Hall, I, Ling Jian would not have the face to remain in this world any longer either!"

With an "en" sound, Ling Tian spoke, "From now on, you must be prepared. In the process of training you, there will be countless dangers you have to face. There is a chance that you will not be able to keep up with my training rhythm and end up losing your life! However, once you have passed my drills, then in this entire continent, you will move unhindered!"

Ling Jian shuddered from head to toe and his eyes turned bloodshot. What could be seen in the depths of his eyes was an unwavering determination to succeed or die trying!

Ling Tian now calmly stood up and pulled open the screen of the chariot, leisurely getting off the vehicle. As he walked, he said, "I'm now giving you the chance to be strong, to get your revenge. The rest depends on you. Follow me."

Ling Jian also hurriedly got down, and as he looked up, a massive and impressively grand golden colored door appeared before his eyes: Ling Residence!

All his hopes and dreams would start from here!

The people inside the Ling residence all saw their own young master actually bringing back a filthy and dirty-looking beggar back and all of them revealed looks of astonishment.

Walking through the main door, he ordered his personal maid Qiu Yue, "Sister Qiu Yue, this little child is the study companion that I've bought just now. Could you bring him for a bath and a change of clothes, get him some food and sort him out before sending him to my room?"

The moment he finished, he started to walk away on his own.

Qiu Yue received a rude shock, before running behind him and calling out, "Young master, the madam wants you to go to her room when you are back. She says that she has something to tell you."

In a flash, Ling Tian spun around, scowling at her, "Remember this! All who are in the Ling residence, none is allowed to call me Young master! Just call me young noble, do all of you understand?!" His voice resounded just like a crack of thunder.

Qiu Yue was frightened out of her wits, her heart palpitating wildly as she hurriedly saluted, "Yes, young noble, this servant will remember."

With a "hmph" sound, Ling Tian continued, "Qiu Yue, I want you to inform all the servants in Ling Residence that if I ever hear someone call me young master again, I'll pull out his tongue and break both his legs!"

Qiu Yue, as well as those bodyguards situated at the front of the main gate all could not help but feel a shiver go down their spines. In the Ling residence, this young master's words were no joke; he even dared to mess around with Master Ling Kong's only son! What would he not dare to do? The crowd expressed their agreement profusely.

On his side, the shadow of Ling Tian could not even be seen anymore….

Chapter 30: Planned Marriage

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

"For the whole of today, where exactly did you run off too? Instead of studying hard, why did you run off elsewhere?" Chu Ting'er held onto the feather duster with one hand, looking imposing and intimidating.

"Ehhh… Your child went out to play for a while only, then came straight home." Scratching his scalp, Ling Tian put on a mask of innocence.

"Oh? Hahaha, playing a while refers to the whole day? And to think you still dare to say that you came straight home?" Chu Ting'er spoke, not knowing to laugh or to be angry. Seeing how his son wore a face of nonchalance, it pissed her off, but at the same time made her want to burst out into a smile.

She stretched out her hand to pinch his smooth cheeks, and with that pinch, she fondly pulled him into her chest. "Go and groom yourself properly, and don't go out tomorrow, your wife will be visiting."

"My wife?" Even with memories of two lives, Ling Tian still felt his brain crash. Where had this wife come from? In my two lives, I've always been a pure and untainted little chick!

Nodding her head with certainty, she took the chance to pinch Ling Tian's face once again, "Yes, your wife, hahaha… My Tian'er is already so big, how could he do without a wife?"

"..." Ling Tian was at a loss for words. If he did not remember his appearance wrongly, right now he should still be having the body of a five-year-old child. Could it be that early marriages and early childbearing in the ancient times were actually at such a state?

Under Chu Ting'er's explanation did Ling Tian finally understand. Turns out that when he was still in his mother's stomach, Grandfather Ling had gone to meet up with the greatest financial magnate, the Xiao family head, and proposed a marriage with his daughter-in-law's child. Both sides agreed that if both were males, then they would be sworn brothers; if they were both females, they would be sisters; and if it was a male and a female, then they would be a couple.

Ling Tian suffered from a burst of depression! This system of feudalism could really cause the death of someone; what age was this, that a five year old child could have already completed his lifelong milestone of being married…..

Ling Tian was certainly unhappy about this; he thought of actually pursuing someone to be his future wife. This could be due to the fact that even in his previous life, he had never tasted the feeling of being in love. In his heart, Ling Tian felt that love was full of mysteriousness, and was something he was looking forward to.

Furthermore, in the depths of Ling Tian's heart, he was in conflict with the sort of political and beneficial marriages formed between families so as to boost both families' alliances. He also detested the fact that the family would sacrifice their descendants to carry out such a method.

It was indeed true that in this world, only the strong would be respected. However, this definitely did not include love. One could even say that power and might could get you any woman's body, but not her heart and love! And what Ling Tian wanted was a lover, not a wife-in-name or a tool for venting his lust, no matter if she was as beautiful as an immortal.

"Mother, I do not wish to have a wife. Please help me to reject the marriage!" Ling Tian held on to Chu Ting'er's arm, shaking it left and right, as he put on an attitude like a child throwing a tantrum. Blegh! Ling Tian vomited a little mentally, but he had no choice. Since this mother was not receptive to both hard and soft methods, the only way to deal with this problem was to use this move; Ling Tian had to act like he was immature.

"This won't do!" Chu Ting'er put on a fierce face, being resolute and not giving any ground to him. "Your grandfather specially secured this marriage for you, how could it be poor? The other party must be a little beauty!"

Ling Tian furrowed his brows in reluctance and unwillingness, saying, "No matter how pretty she is, she definitely cannot compare to mother. Mother is the prettiest!" He ruthlessly boot-licked his mother, since such words were welcome in the ears of most women. Let alone being said by their own child, which contained only the most sincere admiration from someone whom she had weaned as well as a sense of dependence.

Indeed, Chu Ting'er immediately became more cheerful upon hearing that. With her face blossoming, she fiercely kissed Ling Tian's face while saying, "So nice of you, Tian'er."

After being affectionate for a while, Chu Ting'er finally said, "Oh right, Tian'er, after you went out today, Mister Qin wasn't too happy about it and his face was quite ugly to behold. You have to be careful this time and be a good boy, else if your teacher beats you, I won't be bothered about it."

Ling Tian smiled to himself; the reason Mister Qin was in low spirits was probably because of himself, but not like what his mother had described. Instead, it was because that old man was sure of himself, and yet had unknowingly been brought for a ride by a child merely five years of age. It would be surprising if he did not feel any indignation towards the matter.

"I'll go take a look." Ling Tian turned his body to leave. "By the way, mother, I brought back a little beggar from outside today. Let him follow me from now on." Before Chu Ting'er had the chance to reply, his shadow could not be seen already.

Chu Ting'er could only let out a curse, not knowing whether to laugh or cry. This little fellow, how was this considered a request? It was more like merely informing her.

As for why Ling Tian did this, Chu Ting'er also understood. He was saying that he wanted the little beggar as his own personal attendant, and that they had better not employ him to do other tasks. Forget it, let him do as he pleases, Chu Ting'er thought to herself, as she called over a serving maid and gave her a few instructions.

Mister Qin had a face full of black lines as he sat alone in the study room, still feeling gloomy about the fact that he got taken advantage of in the morning. As he sulked, he realized that Ling Tian was behaving furtively at the doorstep, and could not help but scold, "Since you've come back, why don't you come in? What are you looking at?!"

Sniggering to himself, Ling Tian walked to stand in front of Mister Qin.

With a "hmph" sound, Mister Qin turned his head the other way. Toward this student of his, he had a love-hate relationship; any word he spoke once would be captured and understood by Ling Tian who could furthermore provide his own viewpoint to that matter, often allowing Mister Qin to receive some enlightenment. Mister Qin dared to conclude that Ling Tian could definitely inherit his legacy in future, promoting his studies and name to all under the heavens.

However, what made him helpless was the fact that this student was… just too smart… And it was obvious that he had not put in all his brainpower into his studies. All his previous methods to coerce little children could not be used against him. Even to the point that giving him encouragement would result in him arguing back an entire chapter in return, and it would flow out in a torrent, with every word polished like a pearl. This usually made Mister Qin enthralled as he realized that words could be used in such a way. In the end he would snap out of his trance, not knowing then who was the actual teacher and who the student was between the two of them.

Sneaking a glance at Mister Qin's facial expression, Ling Tian could naturally tell that his mood was not good, thus he decided to stretch his tongue and say, "Sir, this student has a matter which needs your help to clear my confusion." As he spoke, his expression and tone were all prim and proper.

As Mister Qin heard this, his heart was filled with satisfaction, quickly turning his head back, "Hahahaha, good student, come say out any doubts you have, teacher here will say all that he knows, without withholding any information!" Hmph hmph, you little rascal, after all, the stuff that you know in this world is actually very little!

With a groan, Ling Tian made a sour face as he said, "Just now mother told me that my pre-arranged fiancé is about to arrive."

Mister Qin was stunned! Only after quite a while did he come to his senses and furiously asked, "This is the question you wanted to consult your teacher with?" After his anger subsided somewhat, he realized that this was actually quite amusing; a wimpy kid merely a few years of age was already having a fiancé.

Ling Tian sighed in an exaggerated manner before continuing, "How is that so? If I could settle this small problem easily, why would I bother great teacher?" Mister Qin nodded his head slightly at this, appearing satisfied. However, Ling Tian actually continued, "Besides, Mister is completely unable to be of help as well."

Mister Qin immediately flared up in a rage, "Bullshit! What kind of nonsense are you spouting!"

Chapter 31: Xiao Family Prowess

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Ling Tian then giggled before saying seriously, "I have another request for teacher."

Seeing Ling Tian all serious, Mister Qin did not dare delay before replying, "Speak."

Ling Tian then said, "I want to have all the information that you know regarding the Xiao family."

Mister Qin then exclaimed, "Xiao family? Your future wife is from the Xiao family?" In his heart, he was thinking about why he did not know about this.

Ling Tian then sighed as he nodded, "Furthermore, she is the only little princess of the Xiao family. I heard that the lass is called Xiao YanXue and is also five this year."

Mister Qin then did not know whether to laugh or cry as he replied, "You are both of the same age and you call her 'lass'? You really like to brag."

Ling Tian then giggled and asked, "What does Mister knows about the Xiao family?"

Mister Qin then replied with a proud smile, "With regard to the Xiao family, I am the right person for you to ask. Although I do not dare say that I know everything regarding the Xiao family, I know at least most of it. This old man and the Xiao family head have been good friends for many years."

Ling Tian became interested as he walked to Mister Qin's back and massaged him lightly. At the same time, he said, "Then will Mister please tell me about it?"

Mister Qin twiddled with his beard with satisfaction and said, "Mmm, on account of the fact that you are so filial, your teacher will explain to you the matters of the Xiao family."

Ling Tian nodded and began to listen carefully.

"The Xiao family has an extremely special existence in the whole continent. This family is not any weaker than the six great families in the world today. But the Xiao family is able to distance itself from the royal family and yet receive benefits from all of the different nations. Besides that, the Xiao family's wealth is publicly recognized as the first in the world. Furthermore, it is publicly known that their wealth was slowly accumulated through ordinary business means and a result of many generations of hard work."

As Ling Tian listened to this point, he could not help but sneer in his heart. Full of lies! This was the thought in Ling Tian's heart. Able to become the world's first without using any underhand means? This is something Ling Tian would never believe! Even in the earth where he stayed in his previous life, it is also impossible for one to achieve such heights only through honest means! Not to mention, this place which was still in the warring states with great chaos all over.

However, Ling Tian did not say anything and silently listened to what Mister Qin had to say.

"...the Xiao family head is called Xiao FengHan, great with skill and strategy. In the past, he roamed around the continent and was a life-and-death brother to your grandfather, Ling Zhan. Due to the fact that your grandfather had saved his life many times, the both of them were extremely close. Your pre-planned marriage was probably a doing of the both of them."

"The Xiao family had begun to change its main dealings 30 years ago from the civilian to the military industry. From then on, the Xiao family specialized in the dealings of armors and weapons. It was also from that time on when the Xiao family established its standing as the world's wealthiest family!"

"The wealth of the Xiao's family can be easily explained with a single point. Currently, there are seven empires in the continent. Of the arms in the Star Falling Empire, Heaven's Blessing Empire, Burning Phoenix Empire and our own empire, at least half of them were purchased from the Xiao family! As for the other three empires, there were at least 30 percent bought from the Xiao family."

Ling Tian took in a cold breath! If he were to follow such calculations, the accumulation of wealth over the years would mean that the Xiao family was wealthier than the four great empires combined! Being this wealthy, they can literally do anything they want in this world! Even if they were to deal with a small empire, they would be able to settle anything with money!

Money can't solve anything; this phrase does have its own logic! But if the amount of wealth reaches a stage where everyone in the world finds it to be frightening, then money is able to solve everything! There is nothing that such wealth would not be able to solve!

Thinking about this, Ling Tian began to conceive ideas in his head. It seems like that Xiao family must have contributed much for the Ling family to have its current standings! With such a strong alliance as an in-law, it is no surprise that the Ling family is still able to remain standing despite the adversities.

However, the Xiao family was indeed extremely bold. They actually dared to give up on all other businesses and specialize in the dealings of armor and weapons, which is a big taboo of an industry! You have to know, this industry is something which every empire would covet after. If any of the seven empires in the continent absorbs the Xiao family, they would definitely have the capabilities to unite the whole continent! Such an attraction was something which no empire would be able to resist!

Since Ling Tian was able to realize this fact, then everyone should be able to as well. But why was it such that no country had made its move until now?

With the delicate balance of power in the continent currently, any small movements would definitely create a huge storm. As long as a single party were to show signs of threat, all of the other empires would definitely gather to suppress that empire. However, this was not the main reason the different empires were staying silent! Unifying the continent was the dream of every ruler! In order to unify the continent, there would definitely be risks involved. But if they were able to completely eat up the Xiao family in a short time, the benefits they would reap would be worth much more than the risk they were taking.

If that's the case, there was only a single reason left: The Xiao family definitely has a powerful military might which no one else knew to protect the safety of the Xiao family!

As he thought about that, Ling Tian could not help but ask in doubt, "Such a fat piece of meat, it can't be that no one wants a piece of it right?"

Mister Qin then nodded his head in agreement, "Of course there are many people who want a piece of them. You have to know, there were 11 empires in this continent 25 years ago. But now, there are only seven left. The four empires which disappeared were the ones who wanted a piece of this meat."

Ling Tian took in another cold breath, "Destroying four nations? Since the Xiao family possessed such strength, why did they not unify the continent themselves?"

Mister Qin nodded his head in reply, "It is not that they do not wish to unify the continent. It is because they are already the target of many powerhouses! If they were to take any action, it would also become their ending. Even the four empires from back then did not form an alliance to attack together. Instead, they fought individually. The Xiao family had only defended against a single wave of attacks from them. Following which, the other nations had attacked together to destroy them. Just from this point alone, it can be seen that while the Xiao family had the ability to protect itself, it was still far from unifying the continent."

"Besides that, it is said that the first leader of the Xiao family, Xiao ChengYun, was a reincarnated celestial. He was adept in divination with many peculiar abilities. Before he died, he had performed divination for the Xiao family and left behind a will: If the Xiao family were to continue with its business, the foundations of the Xiao family would not perish. But if it were to have any ambitions to unify the continent, the whole family would be wiped out for sure!"

Ling Tian then sneered and laughed, "Reincarnation of a celestial? Will of an ancestor? Divination? What a joke! Sir, do you really believe that?"

Mister Qin replied with a bitter laughter, "It doesn't matter whether or not I believe it. In fact, it would not affect the present state of the continent even if no one in the continent believes it. But the key is that the Xiao family had always followed this will. Besides that, the Xiao family had always been doing their business peacefully without a single person of the Xiao family becoming a government official of any country. They had always been extremely peaceful, keeping to the will of their ancestors. Thus, despite how the various nations all covet after the Xiao family, they were extremely careful towards them, keeping this delicate state."

With regard to what Mister Qin said, Ling Tian sneered with disdain! He then said, "I am sure that every empire is definitely eyeing covetously at the Xiao family and awaiting an opportunity! As for the Xiao family, they have not given up on unifying the continent either! It is just that all of the preparations are being made in secret! As for the military might of the Xiao family, it is definitely not weaker than any of the empires! There is only one reason why there has not been any movements: all the powerhouses need a justifiable reason! In other words, they are waiting for a chance!"

Mister Qin's face changed as he asked, "You, how did you deduce that?"

Ling Tian smiled slightly, his fair-looking face plastered a sweet looking smile. But in the eyes of Mister Qin, it was filled with a bone-piercing chill! He could not help but tremble for a moment!

Chapter 32: I Want to Reject the Marriage

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Ling Tian coldly smiled as he said, "Mister Qin, I actually have a hypothesis, not sure if you would believe it?" His tone was full of natural confidence, as though he could not possibly be wrong.

Mister Qin wanted to question him: What exactly was his hypothesis? However, he was unconsciously affected by Ling Tian's imposing manner and could not even speak a single word. At such a young age, with such a tiny body, how was it that he could release such a domineering wave of aura! And furthermore, an aura not borne of anger but majesty.

Ling Tian himself did not notice that his actions and behavior at that particular moment had already deviated from that of a child's. His head was lowered as he paced two steps, organizing his thought process before continuing, "I hypothesize, no, I'm sure, that first, the military supplies and armor that the Xiao family had provided to the other empires were all second class products, or only made from ordinary materials. The real armors should be kept in their own secret storages, waiting for the opportunity to be used! Secondly, the Xiao family should definitely have a secret task force hidden somewhere remote, or appearing in this world under another alias! Thirdly, once chaos strikes and the other countries engage in war, the Xiao family would definitely take advantage of the situation!"

The last sentence of Ling Tian remained unspoken, and that was: When chaos strikes, the people with the final laugh were most likely to be the Xiao family! However, that would only be the case if the Ling Tian now did not exist in this world, only then could they obtain their sweet victory. However, the circumstances have changed. Since I, Ling Tian, am brought here, how could I allow you to manipulate whatever you please? Gritting his teeth, Ling Tian smiled coldly as the thoughts ran unspoken deep within his eyes.

Mister Qin was completely blown away by Ling Tian! Seeing that little child in front of him, he had no idea how he actually could have come up with such a deduction, but deep within his heart, he faintly felt as though Ling Tian's deductions were not merely baseless claims.

Looking at Ling Tian, Mister Qin asked, "Then, now that you know all this knowledge, what are you planning to do?" As he spoke, the latter did not realize that his tone had already undergone somewhat of a change. It was as though he was trying to discuss an important matter, or using the attitude of a person seeking an answer from someone high up that he could not help but subconsciously respect.

Only to see Ling Tian give a lofty smile and say, "I want to decline the marriage!"

"What?!" Even in his dreams did Mister Qin not expect that even after grasping the frightening strength of the Xiao family, Ling Tian would still go ahead and speak such an earth-shattering sentence! This was something completely unbelievable!

Furrowing his brows, Ling Tian thought deeply for a while before replying, "Declining the marriage is for my own safety. The Ling family is currently in a mess both internally and externally, shaking as though it is about to topple any time. I'm afraid that in these 10 years, we cannot withstand any form of torment. In addition, after a few more years, when I've grown bigger, I will execute a thorough clean sweep throughout the entire Ling family! All the internal moles, including those sent out from the various major families, are not allowed to stay inside here! After the sweep I will then restructure the Ling family, and thus before I re-smelt the Ling family into an iron board. Before that, it must not receive any unrest, no matter how trivial.

This was the first time Ling Tian had frankly spoken his mind about his ideals after arriving to this world! Just based on his tone, it was already full of bloodshed and slaughter!

Mister Qin was only listening at the side, but already felt his spine turning cold with cold sweat dripping down his body. It made him desire to cover his ears to block off his voice, as he could very well imagine how Ling Tian's supposed clean sweep would be carried out, and how much bloodshed would actually be spread! From the humongous power that the Ling family currently possessed, how many people would actually die before he fulfils his supposed cleansing? But one thing was for sure: it would not be a small sum.

Ling Tian was helpless too. After these few days, Mister Qin was already placed in the same boat as Ling Tian himself, and was the only person that he could trust currently. Secondly, Mister Qin's current status was Ling Tian's tutor, and had to ensure that he was compatible with any movements Ling Tian made in the future, or else just based on Ling Tian's grandparents and parents, these four huge mountains would be able to restrict all of Ling Tian's movements. If that's the case, the Ling family would be a sitting duck. Thirdly, there were many things that Ling Tian, at his current age, could not deal with, and thus Mister Qin was an ideal candidate to carry out his plans.

With a smile without the slightest hint of moodiness, Ling Tian continued, "If the Ling family were to maintain this relationship of in-laws with the Xiao family, then once the Xiao family makes their move, the Ling family would be dragged into this scene. I cannot place the wellbeing of the Ling family on the hopes that the Xiao family will not make a move during the next ten years! That would be a gamble and is considered too much of a risk. Furthermore, even though the Ling family is in its golden age, we still have to cut this sort of ties with the Xiao family. This is because once things get messier, the Ling family will end up as a form of vassal to the Xiao family. And I, Ling Tian, will not allow my family members to live being under others."

"As such," Ling Tian gave an uninterested smile, "I want to reject the marriage."

Sweat dripped unceasingly from Mister Qin's forehead. Never in his dreams did he imagine that Ling Tian actually had such foresight! Even in their dreams, no one would have expected the best ally in this world, the biggest financial magnate, the Xiao family, would actually be something to fear and avoid in Ling Tian's eyes! And even in their dreams, no one would have expected this little child's ambitions to be so huge!

"Unwilling to allow my family members to live being under others!" This sort of resonating words, what great ambition! Not willing to live under others, then the ending can only be that the Ling family be above all the rest! But placed above who? What was he planning to do?

Mister Qin stared into Ling Tian's eyes, his own filled with dread.

Ling Tian smiled affably, as though his smile hid a deeper meaning, and said, "Sir, I am but an ordinary little kid! You should understand this point."

Mister Qin thought to himself, Bullshit! You're definitely not an ordinary child. How can an ordinary child have such intellect as well as cunningness, thinking of all the different points like you?

Thinking from another angle, Mister Qin could not help but be overwhelmed with shock: Not a normal child! His sentence encapsulated many meanings. Was it a sort of hint? When Ling Tian said that sentence at that time, it was of course not to tell Mister Qin himself that he was a demon; that would be complete nonsense! Unless… this kid was actually a sort of savior sent personally by the heavens themselves? Other than that explanation, there was no other reasoning that could fit why this five-year-old would have so many inconceivable matters happening around him!

Mister Qin's eyes opened as wide as bells at that thought, staring at Ling Tian without moving a muscle. In these eyes flashed fear, fright, disbelief, respect, hope… In just that short moment, over a hundred forms of emotions overflowed from Mister Qin's heart. Unable to bear the burden, Mister Qin suddenly fainted…