Chapter 1689 - 454 - 461

Chapter 454: Cut Sleeves, Shared Peaches

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT, Rock

How would Shui QianHuan be aware that not only was he maligning Yu ManLou, he had also wrongly accused the entire Yu Family. From start to the end, the Yu Family had merely acted out of self-preservation and defense, and the whole scheme was actually cooked up by the goddess in his heart, the one whom he regarded as his beloved, Miss Ling Chen! If he were to find out the truth, he would probably lose his will to live!

Furthermore, this was merely a small portion of the grand scheme had Ling Chen had come out with...

Shui Seven sighed once, before retreating in silence. As the hidden bodyguard of Shui QianHuan, how could he be unaware of the feelings his master had towards the maiden Ling Chen? However, no matter the case, there was no salvaging this situation. Even regarding the fact of Shui QianHuan expecting Ling Chen to lend her troops for his revenge, Shui Seven himself believed that there was not even athe tiniest chance that would actually happen!

Both our families are only working on the context of mutual benefits, and now that you have already lost your worth, to have Miss Ling Chen not kick you while you're down would already be good enough, how do you expect her to help you? This sentence was of course spoken silently in Shui Seven's heart, and not out loud. However, these were his true thoughts. Upon thinking of how Ling Chen had looked at his young master with the eyes as though she saw a repulsive toad, Shui Seven silently sighed to himself. To plead for help, forget about having the door, even the window would probably not be open to him!

He could not fathom, just how was it that all the guards around his young master could see the situation crystal clear, but his intellectually peerless young master could actually be such an imbecile at this time? Could he not see that this was an impossibility?

***

"You're awake?" Ling Tian blandly spoke. By his side, Ling Jian had just completed a cycle and was slowly opening his eyes.

"Yes!" Ling Jian struggled to get up, "Many thanks to young noble for saving me."

"Lie down properly, are you really that eager for death?" By another side, the Little Miss Li Xue impolitely scolded, "With such huge injuries, why are you struggling for?"

"Ling Jian has brought trouble to young noble and should have paid for it with his life!" Ling Jian coldly glanced once at Li Xue, his tone unchanging. While he did not know who this lass was, and why she was together with his young noble, his deep-rooted thinking from young would not allow him to be lying down while his young noble could still stand. Even if he was injured, as long as he had that bit of strength, he had to be at least seated!

Disregarding the obstruction from Li Xue, Ling Jian still pulled himself into a sitting position. Due to the extreme loss of blood, he could only use his arms to prop up his weak body. The whole time, he trembled nonstop, as he guiltily spoke, "Ling Jian has failed the expectations of young noble and even made you expose yourself to danger. I really feel extremely uncomfortable in my heart, may young noble please grant me punishment!"

Ling Tian indifferently stared at him as he used a hand to rub his own cheek, saying in a grave tone, "Forget about it, there's no need to mention this matter anymore. This time, I also came over to Bright Jade City to scout the deployment and trump cards of the Yu Family. However, I never expected you to have already created such a scene before I arrived there. While it seems like you overestimated your capabilities a little, this also allowed us to see the true strength of the Yu Family. I guess this counts as a sort of achievement, so we can nullify your punishment. However, there's something that I must berate you about!"

"Many thanks to young noble! May I know what is it regarding? Please explain further!" Ling Jian gratefully replied, a faint concern suffusing his expression as he continued, "Not sure how Ling Nineteen and the rest are faring now, I originally ordered them, that if they did not receive any news from me at 3 am, then they were to immediately retreat out of Bright Jade City."

"They'll be alright." Ling Tian drily replied, as he stepped forward and grasped hold of Ling Jian's shoulders. Sending a stream of internal energy in, he nodded with satisfaction upon seeing that Ling Jian's internal injuries had taken a turn for the better. He then continued, "I've already sent them a hidden signal, telling them to conceal themselves properly. I estimate that by tonight, they would come looking for us."

"That's good, luckily young noble had reached here in the nick of time, otherwise I wouldn't know what those kids would do." Upon hearing the reassurance, Ling Jian's taut nerves finally relaxed. With the aid from Ling Tian's energy, his body and spirit improved yet another notch.

"Ah'Jian, do you know what's the real reason that I want to rebuke you about?!" Ling Tian suddenly spoke.

"Young noble wants to blame Ling Jian for overestimating his own capabilities, jumping headfirst to spy on the dragon lair or tiger's den, right?" Ling Jian replied.

"No, how could I not understand your good intentions? You wish to pave the road for me in the future and to know your enemy, that's not a bad thing. However… have you thought about it? If your actions today result in the fact that you would never be at my side in the future, so what if I own all under the heavens? I wish to have all under the heavens to share with my brothers, with you, Ling Chen, Ling Chi, as well as all of our other fifty brothers! And not to end up the only one standing alone on a lonely peak, do you understand?!" Ling Tian's gaze grew gentler.

Unshed tears hung on Ling Jian's eyes as he choked, "The emotions of Young Noble have been deeply remembered by Ling Jian!"

"Just remembering it isn't enough. I want to you swear to me, that from today onward, no matter how dangerous of a situation you face, you are not allowed to give up so easily. Even if the chance comes for you to use your life to trade for Yu ManLou's, or anyone else's, you must not act rashly! Swear to me!" Ling Tian suddenly snapped.

"Yes!" Ling Jian also raised his voice in response, his body trembling.

Ling Tian now allowed Ling Jian to lie back down, for the few moves he had made had already caused his wounds to seep out blood once more.

"Look at this, your wounds have opened again! Why were you so emotional, you really don't know what it means to die! I already told you not to move, so why are you moving so much! All my efforts have gone to waste!" A voice with suppressed anger sounded. Other than suffering under Ling Tian's hands, Li Xue had never been at a disadvantage before, even when facing Justice. Looking at how Ling Jian was treating her like the air he was breathing in, she could not help but be incensed, and with her furrowed brows, she really looked quite fierce.

"This lady is…?" Ling Jian narrowed his eyes, a bright ray shooting through them as he eyed her intently. While he was heavily injured, and while he could feel that this lass had skills far surpassing him, Ling Tian was still the only one whom he would listen to. Other than him, while he would maintain the utmost respect, but even the monarch of a country wouldn't enter his eyes! Let alone this total stranger of a lass that was talking to him in such an impolite tone.

It was just that this lass was together with Ling Tian right now, and while he was unable to determine her identity, he did not dare to act rashly. However, his voice quickly became icy.

"What this lady, that lady?" Li Xue snorted, and her eyes grew large as she quickly thought, "You should call me Madam, or…" As she spoke, looking at Ling Jian's face, she was already cursing Ling Tian to the high heavens. Who said that he was someone of his own free will? One look at him and everyone would know that he only listened to Ling Tian himself, completely not placing others in his eyes! How was this different from the case of Jing WuMing, who was only loyal to ShangGuan JinHong? 1

However, Li Xue was not stupid. She immediately knew that if she wanted to pressure Ling Jian, unless she used the name of Ling Tian, she would not be able to do anything even with her martial skills. As such, she immediately termed herself as the Madam, believing that it would be of some use. However, she never expected that the moment she opened her mouth, Ling Tian at the back immediately face planted on the floor...

"You're the official wife of young noble?"

Ling Jian's next move however shocked Li Xue. Even after she had used this 'killing move', Ling Jian's expression remained unchanged, only that his gaze grew sharper and colder, even a bit of cold killing intent! As though he was treating her like his sworn enemy!

To think that she dared to name herself the official wife! Ling Jian was fuming inside his heart. Our lass Chen has already silently sacrificed herself for over a decade for the young noble, to the point that her presence was not even felt, just trying her best to live on for the young noble; even the little princess of the number one family, Yu BingYan was unable to shake Ling Chen's position, only lass Chen had the qualifications to be the wife of Ling Tian! A woman that had just appeared out of nowhere wants to be called Madam? Forcing Ling Chen below her? She was the one who did not know of death!

Ling Jian's care and concern towards Ling Chen was well known. In his heart, the only two people who had a place were his master Ling Tian, and the one he always viewed like his blood sister Ling Chen. At this point, seeing that Li Xue was actually threatening the position of Ling Chen, how would he treat her kindly?

Li Xue was incomparably depressed. What was up with this kid? The word Madam seemed to have given him quite a provocation, but that seemed to be the only course to take for her to obtain control over him. Could it be... Li Xue's eyes slowly grew larger and rounder as she turned to look at Ling Tian. A jade white hand immediately sprang out to cover her mouth as her eyes opened big, and she immediately swallowed the sentence she was about to spit out. Could you guys be…'comrades in bed'? Brokeback mountain?!!

Seeing Li Xue's expression, Ling Tian immediately guessed what Li Xue was thinking about, and could only laugh and smack her on the head in annoyance. "What are you thinking about? This time you're in trouble. No one has ever dared to claim to be my wife in front of Ling Jian. Your guts are really huge, this Ling Jian here is the famed First Pavilion Head, the number one assassin. Whoever he wants to kill will die without a doubt, he has never failed!"

"Could it be that you guys are… cut sleeves, and… shared peaches, 2 so it turns out you are now into such a thing." Li Xue's eyes were round in astonishment. Obviously, she did not place the fact of Ling Jian being the number one assassin in mind, but rather...

Chapter 455: Attracting Trouble

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT, Rock

"You are the one who has cut sleeves and shared peaches!" Ling Tian reprimanded, not knowing whether to laugh or cry, "Ling Jian's parents passed away when he was young and he treats Ling Chen who has the same plight as him as his younger sister. As for Ling Chen, she is my…" talking about Ling Chen, Ling Tian's eyes were filled with warmth as he recalled the beautiful memories with her. I have not seen that lass for such a long time already. I wonder if she is doing well. Will she cry when thinking about me? I really want to go back immediately…

"Oh…" Li Xue let out a long breath and her eyes formed a crescent shape, "No wonder! I was thinking too far. Thankfully you are not…" Thinking about her previous ridiculous thoughts, Li Xue felt extremely amused and began to burst out laughing uncontrollably, "Hahaha… how funny…"

Ling Jian looked at the two of them with a puzzled expression, not knowing what Li Xue was laughing about. Could it be that my expression was too strict and I scared her silly?

However, he did not know that this lady's strength should not be estimated. She definitely didn't place the First Pavilion Head, number one assassin in the world, Ling Jian, in her eyes!

Ling Tian could not help but also chuckle helplessly, "She is a crazy lass."

Ling Jian came to a realization and said, "No wonder. What a pity, what a pity. What a waste of her beautiful looks."

"What do you mean about pity? I do not need you to evaluate my looks!" Li Xue stopped laughing and scolded fiercely. At this moment, she could already predict that if she wanted to follow by Ling Tian's side, this cold block of wood would definitely be the biggest obstruction to her. To think that he would even feel jealous on behalf of his younger sister…

He isn't Jing WuMing indeed! Because Jing WuMing would never behave in such a manner!

Ling Jian looked at her calmly and shut his eyes. Since his young noble said that she was a crazy lass, it meant that she must definitely be a crazy lass. What was the point of bickering with a crazy lass?

Seeing the both of them bickering for no good reason, Ling Tian quickly changed the topic, "In your trip to the Yu Residence, you have seen the true strength of the Yu Family. What are your thoughts?"

Hearing Ling Tian's question, Ling Jian opened his eyes and thought for a moment before replying solemnly, "Powerful! They are powerful to the point I shuddered in fear. I think that I will never have the courage to enter the Yu Residence again!"

"They are powerful indeed," Ling Tian agreed, "I tried to overestimated the strength of the Yu Family but never expected that I actually underestimated them still. To think that they still have such a large strength being concealed. Thankfully, you unknowingly exposed their hidden strength in this trip of yours. If this trump card were to be revealed when our armies are facing each other and we do not make the proper preparations…"

"That's right." Ling Jian said unblinkingly, "We must definitely remove this hidden strength of the Yu Family as early as possible. Young noble only need to give the command and I will lead my brothers to execute them all. Rest assured young noble, we will only take action after ensuring a foolproof plan!"

"Foolproof plan?! How would it be so simple?" Ling Tian smiled, "Nothing can be fully predicted in the world. If not for today, would you ever imagine the strength of the Yu Family to be so terrifying?! Presently, the Yu Family has already revealed twelve subdivision heads with each of them no weaker than Yu ManTian. Furthermore, behind every single one of them definitely lie a secret force. While we have not seen the force with our very eyes, they should be stronger than the ordinary Yu Family experts. It would definitely not be a simple task to get rid of them, not to mention getting rid of them without suffering any losses."

"It should be a total of fourteen!" Ling Jian corrected. "There are still the two experts who concealed themselves last night despite the dire circumstances. However, their aura fluctuated multiple times last night as though they wanted to take action but did not take action in the end. According to this subordinate's senses, their strength is definitely no weaker than the twelve Yu Family experts. Furthermore, there are still Yu ManTian, Yu ManLou, and Yu ManTang. This means that there are at least seventeen XianTian experts in the Yu Family currently. However, this is only what we have seen so far and we wouldn't know how many experts are still being hidden."

"There should be nineteen," Ling Tian corrected. "There are still two more people, the Soul brothers of the Yu Family are still outside trying to kill me."

"Nineteen XianTian experts?!" Ling Tian and Ling Jian looked at each other with a solemn expression. In the eight Great Families, the weaker families may not even have a single XianTian expert, such as the NanGong, XiMen, and Yang Families. It can be seen just how rare a XianTian expert is. However, the Yu Family was actually able to produce nineteen XianTian experts! While it can't be said that there are as many XianTian experts as cabbages in the Yu Family, it wasn't too far off.

No wonder the Yu Family had such great ambitions! Probably no family with such a powerful force would be able to remain low profile.

"Ling Jian, you are the only one who truly understands the strength of both parties. Make an estimate, if the First Pavilion were to face the Yu Family now, what are the odds of victory? I want to hear the truth!" After pondering for a moment, Ling Tian asked.

While Ling Tian had taken action personally, he left immediately after saving Ling Jian and did not cross blows with the other Yu Family's experts. However, Ling Jian had exchanged blows with every single one of them and thus Ling Tian would say that Ling Jian was the only one who understood the strength of both parties.

"With the current strength of the First Pavilion, if we were to fight them face on, it would be our loss for sure!" Ling Jian said without hesitation, "But… if we were to assassinate them, things wouldn't be so simple…"

Ling Jian considered for a long while before giving an answer, "If we were to assassinate them, the final result would probably be to… exchange a life for a life, both parties perishing together! In fact, our loss will probably be greater." After saying that, Ling Jian's forehead was filled with cold sweat! While he had never blinked an eye when killing another individual, he was currently making a prediction about the lives of his brothers!

Ling Tian let out a refined smile and Ling Jian who was used to seeing this smile could not help but shiver slightly.

Every time his young noble gave such a smile, someone would be in trouble! Furthermore, he would definitely be in big, big trouble. The last time Ling Tian smiled as such, the victim was XiMen Qing…

"If that's the case, then it is best for us to find another plan." Ling Tian chuckled, "Since we know that the chances for victory are slim, why should we allow our brothers to sacrifice for nothing? I have said this before: My future is meaningless without all of you beside me!"

Seeing Ling Tian's refined smile, Li Xue frowned slightly and asked doubtfully, "What a crafty smile! You didn't seem to have this habit in the past!"

"Really? Am I very crafty?" Ling Tian rubbed his nose indifferently, "I am only trying to seriously discuss a plan with the both of you. In what way am I being crafty? I am obviously extremely calm."

Ling Jian was excited to the point his face turned red and let out two coughs. However, his wounds began to open up from the coughs, and he could not help but clench his teeth in pain as he asked, "Does young noble have a plan yet? Young noble plans to…" As he said that, he looked at Ling Tian with a burning gaze.

"Of course I have my plans. Could it be that I am only taking a vacation in Bright Jade City?" Ling Tian stood up with his hands crossed and said with a profound tone, "The hidden strength of the Yu Family has always been my greatest concern. Apart from investigating the trump cards of the Yu Family, I was afraid that all of you will launch an operation towards the Yu Family despite not knowing their full strengths, resulting in unnecessary losses. Being able to save you back this time is already the biggest fortune out of our misfortune. However, you will probably need a good month or two before you recover fully from your injuries. After infiltrating the Yu Family alone and almost losing your life, I believe that you will know how to be obedient from now on?" Ling Tian chuckled.

"Young noble, please don't make a joke out of me. Young noble's words seemed to be incomplete? Could there be a third reason?" Ling Jian's eyes shone brightly. After following his young noble for more than ten years, Ling Jian was certain that his young noble was extremely confident. Since his young noble already had a plan, there was no need for him to worry at all. All he needed to do would be to follow the plan. Could it be that his young noble's plan would possibly go wrong? Ling Jian felt his heart ease up. While his trip to the Yu Residence seemed extremely rash, it solved the greatest worry in his young noble's heart and wasn't a wasted trip.

From the way Ling Tian spoke, even if Ling Jian hadn't taken action today, he would have done something similar in the future. Only when they truly understood the Yu Family's strength could they make further plans to rule the world. Thus, the extremely dangerous move of sneaking into the Yu Residence was something that could not be avoided. While Ling Jian suffered serious injuries from his trip, he was extremely satisfied with the trip. Thankfully, he was the one to visit the Yu Residence. If his young noble was to go without a proper understanding of the Yu family's strength and end up being surrounded, while they may not necessarily be able to capture his young noble, it would be a dereliction of his duty if his young noble was to suffer any injuries!

Ling Tian rubbed his chin and said with a deep gaze, "Since we cannot win with strength, we must win with tactics. Since we will suffer a huge loss if we take action personally, we must bring the trouble to another party. This young noble enjoys watching a dog-eat-dog show the most."

"It wouldn't be easy right?" Ling Jian said with a defeated tone, "With the present strength the Shui Family has in Bright Jade City, it wouldn't be sufficient to provide any trouble for the Yu Family. If they were to break out into a fight, it would definitely be a one-sided massacre. The remaining forces of the Shui Family in the city definitely don't have the ability to fight back. While young noble's plan is brilliant, it wouldn't be of much use before the Shui Family's reinforcements arrive. If we were to delay the plan by a few days, the situation will have changed again and we would have missed our opportunity…"

"Haha, Shui Family?" Ling Tian burst into laughter, "Ling Jian, do you think that only the Shui Family is capable of matching the Yu Family? Don't forget that there is the number one financial magnate in the continent concealing themselves extremely well and waiting for an opportunity! Hehe…"

Chapter 456: Hideout

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT, Rock

"Xiao Family?" Ling Jian immediately perked up. "Could it be that there are movements from the Xiao Family? But do they have the ability to go against the Yu Family?"

"Not only have they just begun to move," Ling Tian smacked his lips before continuing, "you might not know this, but the strength of the Xiao Family today has long surpassed our original expectations. First, the people of the Xiao Family almost took the life of Justice the other day. Just based on this strength, they're definitely not below that of the Yu Family yesterday, really surprising."

"Ah? There was such a thing? Could it be that the combined strength of the Xiao Family is actually above that of the Yu Family?" Even someone of Ling Jian's indifference could not help but be badly startled after hearing of such a matter. "However, how did the Xiao Family get so much power?"

"They might not be stronger than the Yu Family. After all, the Yu Family is a zealous family whose aims are the same from the top down, whereas the Xiao Family relies on an external source that is the Above Heavens. Just based on this point, the Yu Family is supposed to be superior! However, there's one part that I did not expect, and that was their supporter or orchestrator was one of the three great sects, Above Heavens from the Heavenly Sun Continent! That sect was supposed to already have been extinct, but it only makes sense, as without Above Heavens's strength, what does the Xiao Family have to bargain with Justice?!"

Ling Tian's tone was heavy, and he sighed at this juncture, before muttering, "We need to push ahead with our next step. It seems like the trump cards of every single family are slowly being revealed, and it is almost at the point of going all out in the open. I believe that not long from now, the flags of war will be raised. I really worry how our preparations for war have been going."

"Young Noble can rest assured that our brothers will definitely not let down your expectations!" Ling Jian resolutely spoke. "If they fail to completely prepare themselves, and spoil young noble's great plan, then I, Ling Jian, would be the first to go after their heads!"

"On the contrary, if they fail to perform, what makes you think that you will be able to escape responsibility? You're the head instructor after all." Ling Tian suddenly smirked, "If I want to pursue the matter, then it would have to start with you."

Ling Jian's face turned sour in an instant. It couldn't be, right? His flames of loyalty had ended up burning him instead!

"Eh, Ling Tian! No wonder you made up your mind to rush over to Bright Jade City, as you already knew of the location of the men from the Above Heavens!" Li Xue huffily complained, even to the point of not addressing him as 'Tian'ge' and directly addressing him by his name! "When did you find this out? Why have I always been kept in the dark? On the journey here, you spat out over ten reasons. To think that you actually hid the most important one of them all! What evil intentions do you have? What is the meaning of this?! Are you treating me like an outsider?!"

The more she spoke, the more this great Miss Li started to feel anguish due to not being trusted. She more visibly more upset as she scolded, to the point that even before she finished speaking, the rims of her eyes were already red, and her mouth was pouting, about to burst out into tears at any moment...

"Oh my dear great-grandaunt," Ling Tian immediately begged humbly with clasped hands, "Please stop scattering your golden droplets (tears) everywhere, I've already been drowned a few times, and I only have this set of clean clothes left. Besides, you're the one sleeping like a pig the last few nights, and how would I even dare to try to disturb you? I only tried once, but that only got me a whole lot of ineffectual punches and kicks from you. I had no choice, and could only go on my own… and now it's all fine and dandy, you start blaming me for hiding everything from you… can you still talk reason?!"

Ling Tian felt like jumping up and smashing his head against the wall. "My little grandaunt, we're still in the midst of taking refuge, if you ignore everything and start bawling, wouldn't that spell the death of all of us?"

"You're the pig!" Li Xue rolled her eyes at him as she blushed. She seemed to know her own faults, and immediately it was like the calm after the storm, her expression turning much better. However, she maintained her pout as she muttered, "At least you could have brought me up to date this morning." Her voice had already gotten much softer.

It seems like the great Miss Li was not an ordinary lady, able to talk reason!

"O great Miss Li, me bringing you, this burden, is already a good thing, okay? I don't have to consult you for every single thing I do!" Ling Tian snorted as he rolled his eyes before saying, "You should be satisfied that I'm bringing you for any interesting and fun stuff, and besides, is there a difference between you knowing it earlier or later?"

"That's true." Li Xue directly replied without thinking, before suddenly glaring and shouting out loud, "Who did you say was a BURDEN?!!"

"Him, I said it was him…" Ling Tian's arm immediately snapped to point in Ling Jian's direction, his face almost sweating bullets out, "This fellow is the burden, can it do? My dear sister, can you not be quieter? We can't afford to be crazy here. This is not our territory, and we need to be more careful!"

"Hmph." After gaining the advantage, Li Xue arrogantly threw down a sentence for her retreat, "See if you still dare to offend me," before she swaggered out of the door.

Just like that, the number one assassin Ling Jian became a burden. While it was simply a method to pull the wool over one's eyes, he still felt extremely indignant, and mumbled continuously, "I'm not a burden, how did I become a burden?..."

"Shut up!" Ling Tian furiously whispered, "Are all of you planning to revolt against me?!" The moment Li Xue left, without the threat of falling tears, Ling Tian's tyrannical side immediately showed.

Ling Jian immediately shrank his neck in fear, changing the topic, "Young Noble, so where are we exactly? Can Nineteen and the rest really find us?"

Ling Tian chuckled before answering with another sentence, "Yu ManLou had three great sons, Yun, Shui, and Feng. Of which, Yu LiuYun has fallen under your blade, leaving the other two. But both of them are hegemons of the red-light district, probably the honor graduates of rouge and powder. It just so happens that the two of them are sentimental fools, hehehe…"

"And so what about that?" Ling Jian's head was in a fog.

"So what? Well, there really isn't a so what." Ling Tian only gave a sinister smile. "It's just that two years ago, Yu LiuYun, the second young master met this beautiful lady, Chun Xiang from the Floating Fragrance Pavilion in Bright Jade City, and immediately fell in love with her. After scraping together all his funds, he then bought her over and settled her in a separate pavilion, providing a golden house to keep his mistress. Hehehe…"

Seeing how Ling Tian was laughing so strangely, Ling Jian immediately had a sudden thought, and incredulously spoke, "Could it be that this Lady Chun Xiang…"

"Oh, there's actually no special circumstances in Miss Chun Xiang's history." Ling Tian tried to play it down. "It's just that one of her identities happens to be a hidden thread for our Crystal Pavilion. As for the Floating Fragrance Pavilion, that also happens to be one of the businesses run by the Crystal Pavilion."

Ling Jian could not help but glare incredulously, and his face turned into an expression where he did not know whether to laugh or to cry. Finally, he collapsed into laughter, "So it turns out that we're at the place where Second Young Master Yu has hidden his mistress?"

"Smart!" Ling Tian nodded his head as he loudly praised. "Not the Pavilion Head of the First Pavilion for nothing, your thoughts are really nimble! Come to think of it, there would not be a safer place than here, right?"

Ling Jian was conflicted, "Since Young Noble has already mentioned the Crystal Pavilion, if I still cannot guess, then wouldn't I be stupider than a pig?"

Ling Tian only laughed, before commanding, "You had better sit quietly here and recover from your wounds. I'll be making a trip outside and since the Yu Family has opened up a city-wide search, I definitely have to allow them to catch a few fish, or else wouldn't that be an absolute waste of their strength?"

Ling Jian let out a knowing smile at this as he chuckled, "If the fish is too big, the fishermen might be dragged into the sea instead!"

"Hahaha, that's right!" Ling Tian laughed in acknowledgment as he exited.

At this time, it was already almost high noon.

When Ling Tian walked out, his healthy looking face had already been covered with a dusty gray color, and he was dressed in light blue robes and carrying two metal weights in his hands. Above his lips, he had even pasted a little mustache, and coupled with that avaricious look on his face, he appeared to be a crafty merchant randomly found on the streets...

It had to be said that the imitation skill of Ling Tian was really too good, impersonating anyone to perfection. This was also another skill that he brought over from his past life, a true top assassin not only needed to be ruthless and decisive but also needed a seamless method of performing his act. This perfect imitation skill was not to be missed. However, at this particular skill, Ling Jian was obviously deficient, and thus, he had never considered himself as the number one assassin in this world. This was because in Ling Jian's heart, he only believed that his young noble had this qualification! To be crowned as the 'number one under heavens', these four words!

Right now, this face that Ling Tian wore actually belonged to a certain someone. The true owner of this face was a merchant named Zhao DaFu. He ran a specialized apothecary in the city, already existing for twenty years, with even some relations with the Yu Family. He could be considered someone of repute in the city.

"Zhao DaFu, male, thirty-five years old, six feet tall, skinny, a relatively well-known merchant in Bright Jade City. His character: Avaricious, stingy, calculative, with the tag of a cheapskate." All these were the information that Ling Tian had gathered about this Zhao DaFu. Right now, the true Zhao DaFu was already ensconced in a very secure location, fast asleep. As to whether he did it willingly, there was no need to know. Right now, the face of Zhao DaFu already did not belong to him.

As for this identity, it was something that the subordinates of Ling Tian had meticulously arranged for him to live in Bright Jade City.

Walking down on the street, Ling Tian let out a look of distress and distraction. Around him, people who recognized him constantly greeted him, but he appeared to not notice or care. While Ling Tian was assured of his skill of impersonation, he could not claim to have understood Zhao DaFu's entire life, and there were many faces that he did not recognize. Thus, he could only assume a look of rejection to turn people away. Besides, his target's character was also one whom only sucked up to the upper class and looked down on the lower class, thus his actions were not too different from normal. This was also one of the reasons why Ling Tian chose this identity!

But the strange part was that there were actually White Jade ranked experts from the Yu Family that would pass by and greet him from time to time. Ling Tian did not dare to tarry and could only engage in some pleasant bantering before excusing himself. He felt that this was strange, a stingy merchant was actually able to reach the point of conversing with the martial arts experts of the Yu Family? It seemed like this Zhao DaFu was no ordinary merchant!

Chapter 457: Inside Floating Fragrance Pavilion

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT, Rock

The streets of Bright Jade City were no longer bustling and flourishing like before. Every now and then, an armed patrol would go by, casting investigative glances at the few people who still dared to stick their heads out of their houses. Ling Tian could astutely see that within the patrols there were people consisting of two different factions, with totally different attitudes and behaviors.

One faction was a group of soldiers dressed in deep yellow colors, but their attitudes were incomparably depressing, and they constantly let out terrified as well as uneasy looks on their faces. While they looked like they were patrolling the area, judging by their pushover looks, they would be more suited if one said that they were just passing by.

The other patrol consisted of people robed in light blue, full of confidence, constantly hollering and displaying their tyranny. Each of them looked full of energy and exuberance, with incisive and piercing gazes. Not only did they stand up tall and straight, they were also perfectly disciplined. As they patrolled, their movements were swift and decisive, extremely firm.

Two type of troops, with heaven and earth differences in behaviors. This immediately made Ling Tian notice, allowing him to realize that hidden within should have some sort of subtle meaning. This was especially so when the two patrolling troops intersected with each other on the streets. Those in light blue would immediately stick out their chests in pride, arrogantly looking past them, as though their comrades were invisible to them. The group in blue would purposely push forward and bump into the other as though they were trying to pick a fight.

As for that yellow group in question, expressions of suppressed anger and humiliation would show on their faces, but they could only keep quiet out of fear and duck by the roadside, as though afraid to offend the other party. Not only so, but as the blue-robed guards passed by them, the patrol in yellow even had to bow towards them! The head guard even had an expression of flattery on his face, and from what Ling Tian observed, a subtle hint of self-loathing!

Observing from the side, Ling Tian only coldly watched as the events unfolded. It was only after the same incident occurred many times that his heart finally came to the conclusion. Those in yellow were likely the ex-imperial family guards, and those in blue were likely to be the private troops of the Yu Family. That would explain their overbearing and insufferably arrogant attitude. However, from Ling Tian's point, he could see that although both were ordinary soldiers without martial background, one could see that the light blue guards appeared to be more elite as compared as to the ex-imperial guards. They could not even be compared in the same breath, akin to heaven and earth, which would explain the basis of their pride.

Following closely behind every patrol team were a few people in clean white robes paired with a few people dressed in purple robes, surveilling the surroundings. From Ling Tian's divine sense, he could detect minute movements of clothes fluttering even up at the rooftops. It was likely they belonged to the experts of the Yu Family observing the entire city.

Every now and then, there would be people being dragged out of the taverns and inns, trussed up and taken away. The sounds of crying, pleading, beating, and cursing mingled into one. Occasionally, there would even be a scream coming out from an alley. The entire city had turned into a chaotic mess.

This operation of the Yu Family was sufficient enough to determine the cold-blooded actions of Yu ManLou!

He would rather kill the innocent than to let off the guilty!

Ling Tian lowered his head and slowly walked across, all the while using his divine sense to maintain awareness of his surroundings. In just this short moment, Ling Tian was already greatly shocked. For Yu ManLou to be able to mobilize such a huge force was completely out of his expectations. Based on the normally sized hideout that he was living in, Ling Tian could deduce that Yu Family had deployed more than ten thousand men for the operation this time around! It could be said that the Yu Family had gone all-out with their forces!

After another round of careful deliberation, Ling Tian immediately understood the intentions of Yu ManLou, and could not help but let out a smirk. This Yu ManLou really knew how to grasp opportunities, even such a matter had also been calculated by them, going active instead of passively waiting!

Indeed, it could be said that in some ways, the trouble that his nemesis Yu ManLou could cause him was above that of Heavenly Justice himself!

Taking advantage of the fact that the diplomats of the various empires were still situated in Bright Jade City, this move of the Yu Family was first to weed out any opposition in the pretext of searching for the murderer, and second to flaunt their prestige! Just from the scene of them activating over ten thousand people in half the night, as well as their unyielding attitude, this allowed for the greatest intimidation of the various influences who hadn't picked a side!

If you want to become the enemy of my Yu Family, then you had better first ponder about your own strength! The Yu Family is able to mobilize over ten thousand men in half a night's time, if a war really breaks out, how much time do you think we would need to gather our full force?

Following this path of thinking, this strength the Yu Family displayed was enough to allow every major influence to tremble in fear. The reason was if the Yu Family could display such shocking preparedness even in times of peace, then this was naturally the strength on their surface level. So how much more strength did they keep hidden?

Intimidation!

Utter intimidation!

Indeed a wily old fox! Ling Tian cursed Yu ManLou internally as he strode forward in huge steps, turning past another alley before his eyes lit up. At the same time, a thick and heavy scent of cosmetics and powder floating into his nose, causing him to feel an unbearable itch, almost making him sneeze. In front of him was a large courtyard with three separate three-storied pavilions forming a triangle around it. On the front-most pavilion, there was a huge inscribed board on its top floor displayed to the world, stretching from the second to the top floor. Three huge words were written: Floating Fragrance Pavilion!

On the streets outside, the screams of misery could be heard nonstop, but surprisingly, after entering the pavilion, the atmosphere did not seem to be affected. Tittering laughter could be heard everywhere, accompanied by songs and dances, as well as overly-exaggerated mewls could be heard from everywhere. It was a completely different experience as compared to the cold killing atmosphere outside.

Ling Tian stroked his nose, feeling a little astounded. Such grandeur, even in his previous life, in those provincial government houses, might not even compare in terms of magnificence. The wealth present was blinding, and one could tell that there were no restrictions in opening a brothel as compared to his previous life.

"Aiyoh, is this not Boss Zhao? Really a rare surprise, Boss Zhao has not been here for three days already, and the ladies are all anxiously waiting for you. Hehe, if our ladies fall lovesick because of you, then the medical fees would be charged on your tab, okay?" Ling Tian had not even stepped into the Floating Fragrance Pavilion, but a voice that gave him the goosebumps had already sounded from afar.

Looking in that direction, Ling Tian almost felt like vomiting!

A stocky and well-built female bouncer appeared, wearing a bright red silk dress which was plastered all around her figure. The folds of fats were completely accentuated, and her pasty round face, thickly powdered with makeup, was coupled with a head of gleaming oily hair that probably could reflect one's appearance. Her fat lips were also painted bright red, with a rose held in her hair at her temple. In her hands was a silk handkerchief heavily scented with perfume that she coquettishly waved in front of him, as she constantly winked at him.

"Yes, yes, I was quite busy the last two days. Look, aren't I here now?" Ling Tian dryly laughed and took out a piece of silver to enter the place.

However, the female bouncer twisted her bear-like waist, attempting to give off the appearance of a slender female gracefully moving as she blocked off his path. She suddenly smiled, causing the thick layer of powder on her face to cascade off and form a little snowdrift by her feet as she spoke in the most 'lovable' voice she could muster, "Boss Zhao is really generous today, hohoho, are you looking for Little Hong today? Or is it Little Cui? Little Min? Or maybe Little Hua?"

Ling Tian felt a wave of dizziness strike him. D*mn it, to think that this Boss Zhao had so many 'contacts' in this place!

"Oh, I came to look for Miss QianQian today." Ling Tian could only force out a smile. "I have some business to discuss with her."

"Business affairs? And looking specifically for Miss QianQian? Why don't you speak to me about it? I, Little Guai, still have some say in this!" As she spoke, her stocky body started to lean in towards him. Ling Tian had zero doubts that if the original Boss Zhao was present, he would probably lose his life the moment she squashed him!

Little Guai! To think that this creature that probably looked like she weighed over 400 catty 1 would be named 'Little ' Guai!

Ling Tian could only forcibly cough some more in embarrassment, but only ended up breathing in more powder from her. He felt as though he had been transported back once again to the heavily polluted districts in the 21st Century of his previous life. A sort of suffocating feeling could be felt, and he instinctively thought, What sort of brand produced this kind of inferior powder? He could bear it no longer, and replied, "But the business has always been run by Miss QianQian, so how could I approach someone else?"

"Che! So much moral integrity! Is it not because you have your eyes on that shameless hussy? Men, bring him inside!" The enormous Little Guai suddenly had a change in expression and turned her head back to holler. However, because of her excessive movements, a whole chunk of cosmetic powder dropped off from her face, landing on the ground with a 'pa' sound.

Ling Tian felt his stomach turn again. Luckily for him, he had remembered not to eat anything before he came.

Along came two other women who were more acceptable looking, bringing Ling Tian to the second pavilion behind, and after finding him an elegant room and pouring some tea, they went off to report.

In a moment, light footsteps were heard and the door screen was pulled open, revealing a lithe and delicate young girl who walked in. Her facial features were exquisite, but there were hints of impatience currently present on her face.

Ling Tian held the teacup in his hand. Seeing her walk in, his eyes gazed at her, but he did not get up to greet her, nor did he speak.

Her delicate and pretty face immediately showed signs of anger as she unhappily spoke, "Boss Zhao, hasn't our business been concluded? The money and goods have been accounted for, and we do not owe each other anything any longer. What business do we still have to talk about? To use such an excuse to bring me over, what is your motive?" Her tone was overbearing, obviously she did not place this great merchant of Bright Jade City in her eyes.

Ling Tian deeply gazed at her, before nonchalantly flipping the cup of tea on his hands, overturning it on the table. He suddenly spoke in a serious voice, "The Heavenly Emperor silences the tiger!"

"Ah?" QianQian immediately covered her mouth with her slender hand in astonishment. A look of disbelief passed through her face, and it was only after a long time did she finally calm down and cautiously reply, "The pagoda seals the demon!"

After that, she immediately asked in astonishment, "Boss Zhao is actually one of us?"

Chapter 458: The Crystal Pavilion's News

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT, Rock

"You do not have to suspect anything." Ling Tian chuckled, "Boss Zhao definitely isn't one of us. However, I am definitely one of us."

This Floating Fragrance Pavilion was one of the secret intelligence bases of the mysterious intelligence organization, Crystal Pavilion. As for Miss QianQian in front of them, she was the person in charge of this secret base. While the Floating Fragrance Pavilion seemed to belong to someone else on the surface, Miss QianQian was the true authority of the place. In the Crystal Pavilion, there were only a few core members who knew that the Crystal Pavilion actually belonged to Ling Tian. As for this QianQian, she was one of them.

"Oh? You mean to say that you are not Zhao DaFu?" QianQian had already regained her calm from the previous shock and immediately understood what Ling Tian meant. She then said with an alluring smile, "No wonder, everytime Zhao DaFu appears here, he would definitely harass Little Guai for a while… it turns out that you are a different person."

Harass that Little Guai? Ling Tian was truly speechless. This Zhao DaFu truly had a unique fetish…

"I wonder which ambassador this sir is?" QianQian went back to the main topic and asked with a trace of nervousness and curiosity.

Ling Tian smiled at her and pointed above his head with a finger, "Above the heavens!"

Pa! The teacup in QianQian's hands fell to the ground and she exclaimed, "Young noble actually made a personal appearance?" Her expression was then filled with ecstasy and her face turned red from excitement!

To her, the young noble was a legendary figure too far above her! From a profligate son of a nouveau riche family, he actually managed to leave behind a mark in the world that belonged solely to him. In the news of the Crystal Pavilion, their young noble had actually used the identity of a profligate son to run amok in Sky Bearing, creating wind and rain with the flip of his palm. He fought with the Yang Family, destroyed the imperial family, schemed against the XiMen Family, trapped the NanGong Family and obliterated Northern Wei! While the enemies standing in front of the young noble grew stronger and stronger, his steps remained calm and not a single person was able to stop the steps of their young noble! Every single piece of news regarding their young noble was a legendary deed!

Up to now he had used his own strength to face the number one expert in the world, the Martial Order Medallion owner Justice! Instead of facing the other small families, their young noble was now facing the largest families in the world today such as the Shui, Yu and Xiao Family!

His wisdom was not the only respectable point, and his martial arts were even more spectacular! Furthermore, their young noble was still the publicly acknowledged number one scholar! Be it poetry, music, chess, zither, painting or calligraphy, their young noble had achieved a stunning height in all of these things!

What kind of a genius was this! This was truly a well-rounded genius!

On top of that, young noble Ling Tian was famous for his suave appearance that would melt the heart of any maiden! He was truly the prince charming of any maiden and the name 'Ling Tian' had turned into a beautiful sweet dream for any maiden!

When would she be able to meet the young noble? This had turned into the biggest wish of QianQian!

With her wish finally coming true in front of her, QianQian was agitated to the point she could not think clearly. She felt her heart thumping rapidly as though it was about to jump out of her chest. She then felt her body trembling as her tears almost flowed down from the corner of her eyes.

"Young noble!" A long while later, QianQian finally came to her senses as she said with a choking voice, kneeling down and kowtowing to Ling Tian.

Ling Tian smiled calmly and said, "There is no need to stand on ceremony." Lifting his arms up lightly, a formless energy enveloped the kneeling QianQian and helped her up.

A trace of disappointment flashed past QianQian's eyes. She originally thought that she would be able to feel her young noble's presence up close if he wanted to help her up. However, she never imagined her young noble could easily help her up from three feet away.

"It has been tough on all of you over the years." Ling Tian said warmly.

"Thank… young noble, this servant… it isn't tough." QianQian was overwhelmed with emotions and the rims of her eyes turned red. With this single phrase of warmth from their young noble, the many years of her hard work were all worth it! Her tears dripped down uncontrollably and feeling how she couldn't control herself, QianQian could not help but be embarrassed. Just when she was feeling flustered, a clean white handkerchief was sent in front of her.

Raising her head up, she saw her young noble's warm gaze with a trace of tenderness. His arm was stretched out and he held onto a clean handkerchief in his hand.

Receiving the handkerchief with a pair of trembling hands, QianQian could feel the warmth that Ling Tian left behind. After dabbing it lightly on her face to wipe off her tears, QianQian then folded it up carefully and kept it into her bosom.

Ling Tian originally thought that QianQian would return the handkerchief to him after using it and right when he was about to raise his hand to receive it, he saw QianQian keeping the handkerchief into her bosom. Thus, his hand which was about to stretch out could only be retracted and used to rub his nose. Why do all ladies have such a weird habit? It was Li Xue first and now QianQian.

"The main reason for my appearance is to understand the latest news in Bright Jade City and find out where Above Heavens is presently residing. Above Heavens should have more than ten experts gathered together in the same spot. Being in the Yu Family's territory, they would not dare to split up their forces. Thus, it shouldn't be too difficult to find them!" After finally being able to settle down this lass's emotions, Ling Tian quickly expressed his purpose for coming. If he were to allow this lass in front of him to continue crying, he would probably be drowned by tears in no time at all. In less than ten minutes, this lass had already cried twice and was probably catching up to Li Xue already…

"Oh, if that's the case, may young noble wait for a moment." Talking about business, QianQian was extremely serious. "This servant will go and get it for young noble." After which, she turned and walked out.

A short while later, she carried a huge box and walked in unsteadily. She obviously made use of this time to touch up her makeup and had actually changed into a new dress. Her silk-like hair was tied up into a bun, with her brows like the distant mountains and eyes like the spring waters. The low cut dress which she was wearing displayed the full beauty of her snow-white neck and fully exhibited her curvy figure. She also seemed to have calmed down as she placed the box in front of Ling Tian and said, "All of the news which we have gathered about the Yu Family over the past two months are in this box. May young noble take a look at it."

After pausing for a moment, she said with a trace of guilt, "Young noble, as for Above Heavens, we do not have concrete news about them right now and we do not have much news about the Xiao Family either. However…"

"However what?" Ling Tian flipped through the files in front of him and asked distractedly.

"However, all the families that behaved oddly have been recorded in this file. Young noble can take a look at it and there may be some important information." QianQian bent down and took out a file from the box. As she bent down, her snow-white peaks that were compressed had almost popped right out. "This file contains information of all the martial arts experts who entered the city and other oddities. It contains information up to yesterday afternoon. In this file, we discovered no less than six top-notch experts who snuck into Bright Jade City. Currently, we only have a rough estimate of their location and are unable to pinpoint their exact location. As for whether or not they are from Above Heavens, we are clueless."

"Oh, this is sufficient." Ling Tian comforted. With regards to the beautiful scene that QianQian had displayed before his very eyes, he only took a glance before focusing on the file in his hands as though he did not see anything. Upon noticing that, QianQian could not help but have some resentment in her eyes as she thought, I have always been proud of my beauty but could it be so worthless in front of the young noble? Am I not pretty enough or are the young noble's standards too high?

As though Ling Tian knew what she was thinking about, he said without lifting his head up, "It definitely isn't an easy thing for you to keep your chastity in a brothel. Regardless of who is in front of you, you are still QianQian. Why is there a need for this? Save it for your Mister Right." How could Ling Tian be unaware of the lass's thoughts? After going through two lifetimes, how could he be unable to control himself? Furthermore, QianQian was acting no different from those idol chasers in his previous life. If he were to ruin her chastity because of a moment of lust it would truly be a sin.

QianQian's eyes turned red and she felt a sense of warmth in her heart. Repeating the words that Ling Tian had said to her, she fell into a daze.

Ling Tian continued to browse through the files in front of him and was suddenly attracted by something. Yu ManTang and Yu ManTian left for the Lei Family under the orders of Yu ManLou to invite the Lei Family into the continent. The details of the affair were unknown.

Lei Family? The Lei Family of the Eight Great Families? Ling Tian's attention was fully captured by this piece of news as he frowned and thought to himself, Why would Yu ManLou want to invite the Lei Family into the continent? Could it be that the Yu Family has a secret agreement with the Lei Family? Or perhaps… the Yu and Lei Families are closely related? Why was there no news of this in the past?

No matter what, if the Lei Family was to enter the continent now, they would definitely come into conflict with the various powers of the continent. At that moment, the current balance would definitely be broken! As for whether or not it was a good or bad thing, it was too difficult to predict right now! If the Yu and Lei Families joined forces…

Chapter 459: Injustice on the Streets

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT, Rock

It was as though someone was secretly stirring the Heavenly Star Continent up from behind the scenes!

What a headache!

Ling Tian rubbed his temples and let out a sigh. He decided to ignore this matter temporarily as he continued flipping through the other files. As he flipped through it, he pointed out a few points for QianQian to record down. Ling Tian then let out a deep breath. If he wasn't wrong, those fellows from Above Heavens should be hiding in one of those places. The moment night arrives, the truth would be out.

"Is there news about DongFang JingLei?" Ling Tian lifted up his teacup and asked calmly.

"According to the reports, after DongFang JingLei left the Northern Wei territory, he traveled towards the south-east and his current location should be in between the Xiao and DongFang Family's territory. However, his destination isn't clear and it doesn't seem like he intends to return to the DongFang Family. At the same time, it doesn't seem like he intends to visit the Xiao Family either. His actions are truly baffling." Beyond Ling Tian's expectations, QianQian was able to answer his question immediately without searching through any files.

Ling Tian nodded his head. It was obvious to him that QianQian did indeed put in a great amount of effort in the area of collecting intelligence. He then praised her, "Good job."

As for why DongFang JingLei was behaving as such, Ling Tian was extremely clear in his heart. His words probably had a huge impact on this Second Master. As of now, DongFang JingLei was still stuck in a dilemma and unsure of the choice he should make. Ling Tian sneered in his heart as he thought, If that's the case, let me give you some additional pressure to see if you will submit obediently!

Hearing Ling Tian's praise, QianQian's face flushed red and her heart began to thump rapidly as she lowered her head shyly.

Ling Tian then stood up and said, "Let me give you an important mission. I want you to send someone to monitor all of DongFang JingLei's actions. As for the Bright Jade City, the situation is presently too tense and for safety reason, it is best for all of you to lay low for the time being. After all, I am present in the city, and I will be able to make adjustments if something were to happen. If you don't have my orders, you should wait for this storm to pass before continuing with your tasks. I will be leaving now. There isn't a need for you to send me off, lest we end up attracting attention."

"Yes! This servant bids farewell to young noble." QianQian said with a depressed tone. After today, when will I be able to see him again? Young noble, you must take care!

She then heard Ling Tian leave the pavilion as he reverted back to Zhao DaFu's hateful voice, saying something inaudible before leaving.

QianQian's tears began to flow down yet again. The man who had appeared in her dreams countless of times had left. From the start to the end, she did not even see her young noble's true appearance!

The biggest regret of her lifetime!

However, this opportunity for her to spend some time alone with her young noble was enough to be engraved deeply within her heart…

Leaving the pavilion, Ling Tian felt a load off his shoulders. As that 'Little Guai' saw him, she actually let out a lovable 'hmph' and turned around to ignore him. She then shook that thick waist of hers and stomped her feet and a mini cyclone seemed to have been formed…

Seeing that she ignored him, Ling Tian was overjoyed as he snuck away like a thief. Behind him, he then heard a high-pitched shriek, "Zhao DaFu, Zhao DaFu… Hmph! You better not come and find this lady again…"

Ling Tian broke out into a cold sweat and sprinted for his life. Even in the face of the number one expert, Justice, Ling Tian was never this frightened…

Thinking about what would happen tonight, Ling Tian could not help but reveal a smile. Shui Family, Above Heavens… There was another reason why Ling Tian was in such a rush to find the experts of Above Heavens. Ling Tian wanted to know just how heavily injured Justice was from the battle he had with Above Heavens! Was he dead or alive? Were his injuries light or severe? How long would he need to recuperate? As long as he did not have his answer, Ling Tian would not be at ease. After all, Justice was the individual who possessed the largest threat to him.

If Justice were to suddenly appear when he was occupied with something else, Ling Tian would truly be in huge trouble. Thus, Ling Tian's number one priority now would be to confirm this matter before making other plans.

Of course, Ling Tian did not need to be concerned that Justice would suddenly appear now and he could freely carry out his scheme to pit the Yu Family against Above Heavens. After all, it would be in Ling Tian's best interest to weaken these two parties as much as possible. The strength of both parties had already exceeded Ling Tian's expectations, and Ling Tian had even fantasized about both the Yu Family and Above Heavens perishing in their fight…

Naturally, Ling Tian knew that it was no more than a pipe dream. It would be extremely difficult for him to ensure that both families suffered some losses in their fight, much less fighting each other to the death. Don't forget, the people heading these two powers were willy old foxes. How would they be willing to easily engage in an all-out fight?

After going through his plan for tonight again, Ling Tian let out a satisfied smile. After obtaining the information that he wanted, it was naturally time for Ling Tian to go back and make his preparations. If he were to stay out for too long and allow someone to realize that he was an imposter, that definitely wouldn't be a good thing. While he wasn't afraid of being found out, Ling Jian was currently seriously injured and it wasn't the right time to create trouble.

After passing by another street, Ling Tian suddenly heard fighting sounds. Ling Tian could not help but be curious as he thought, Could it be that there is another party who dares to go against Yu ManLou at such a moment? Since the source of the disturbance was one where he would have to pass by anyway, Ling Tian let out a smile and continued his journey.

"Let go of me! Why are you capturing me? What did I do? On what basis can you guys arrest anyone you want?!" A sharp voice filled with anger and fear sounded! The fight had already ended and the person who had resisted capture had obviously been apprehended.

As Ling Tian heard this voice, he was stunned for a moment because of the familiarity of the voice! A face then appeared in his head as he thought with doubt, Why would she appear here with her status? Furthermore, how could she be captured by the patrolling guards? How odd.

Speeding up his steps, Ling Tian a squadron of twenty blue-dressed soldiers holding onto a skinny figure and walking towards another alley. The skinny figure was still struggling but to no avail.

Seeing the figure struggle, the captain could not help but grow impatient as he slapped the skinny figure, "If you continue struggling, this daddy here will slaughter you right now!" He then let out an 'eh' sound and sniffed his fingers. After which he let out a perverse chuckle, "How strange! Even though this brat's face is so tan, his face is actually so smooth! Could he be a lass in disguise?"

As that skinny figure heard that, she began to tremble with a look of extreme fear.

The soldier was originally making a casual remark and did not mean what he said but upon seeing the nervous actions of the skinny figure he let out a malevolent sneer and ripped off the shirt of the skinny figure.

With a ripping sound, the shirt on the skinny figure was ripped open, but because she was tied up by ropes, the clothes were not completely ripped off. Even if that was the case, all the soldiers present could not help but take in a breath of cold air. All of their eyes were opened up wide as they looked over lecherously with drool almost flowing down their mouths.

Underneath the ripped shirt was actually a patch of snow white skin. On her chest, proud hills could be seen which was wrapped up tightly by bandages.

"Indeed a lass! This daddy here almost didn't notice that." The soldier began to cheer, "Dammit, we were dragged out from bed since last night and have been working for a full day and night. We can finally have some fun now! Let us find a nice place, and everyone will definitely have a share!"

The guards all let out a wave of cheers and there were even a few who let out wolf whistles. All of them could not control their lust, and the captain of the squadron lightly pinched the cheek of the lass. "Little girl, you are probably a young chick, right! Hahaha! Since you sent yourself to our doorstep, this daddy here will definitely allow you to have a good time. I will definitely make sure that you will never forget me even in your dreams…"

That girl quickly turned around as tears of desperation flowed down her cheeks, "Scumbag! I will definitely not let you off even in death!"

"Won't let me off? Hahaha…" That captain began to laugh sinisterly, "You will definitely beg me to not let you off. But that will be on the bed and under this daddy's body! Hahaha…"

"Pei!" That girl spat on his face and said hatefully, "I would rather die than allow you bunch of beasts to have your way!"

"Die? Haha, do you think you can escape with death? Don't worry, this daddy will definitely let you die… however, you will be dying from pleasure. Hahaha…" That captain laughed lasciviously as he looked at the girl like a predator eyeing on his prey.

"Scum! You will die a horrible death! I will not let you off even as a ghost!" That girl scolded and with a violent struggle, she actually took a step forward and bit down on the right hand that the captain was using to stroke her cheeks. She bit down so hard to the point blood flowed down the corner of her lips.

The captain gave out a miserable shriek and struggled to free his hand. By the time his hand was free from her teeth, it was completely bloodied and he winced in pain. In a fit of rage, he pulled out his blade and cursed with anger, "You actually dare to be so presumptuous in front of this daddy?! Dammit, this daddy will strip you naked and let you see my prowess!" He then swung his blade and the rope tying the girl's chest was cut off. With a lecherous sneer, he grabbed onto her shirt and wanted to rip it apart!

Chapter 460: An Old Friend

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT, Rock

The lady only let out a despairing scream as she closed her eyes, ready to commit suicide by biting her tongue! She would rather die than to suffer such humiliation.

However, she suddenly felt something wet on her face, as though it suddenly started to rain. Furthermore, there was sort of a salty smell to it, making her feel extremely confused. Wasn't it still shining brightly just now? It was only after the two disgusting hands that were holding onto her robes fell off, followed by screams of pain, that she opened her eyes in shock.

A masked person in gray had rushed over like a whirlwind, and it was not known when the guard's hands that were grabbing her were suddenly separated from his body. The guard in question was shouting himself hoarse from misery. His current tragic appearance made some people feel much better!

Ling Tian's gaze was cold, his moves decisive and ruthless. He brandished the blade in his hand, and with the flash of steel, five of them were already on the ground. It was as though he was chopping vegetables, with movements so quick that it occurred even before the scream came out from the mouth of the guard with severed hands!

The rest of the guards brandished their blades in return and rushed towards Ling Tian. The latter only snorted as his figure quickly rushed forwards. There was a dull gleam and Ling Tian slowly breezed back. However, instead of continuing their chase, the ten odd guards stupidly stood at their original spot, every one of their faces gradually turning ash-grey...

Bringing his blade down, the rest of the ropes binding the lady quickly fell on the ground. Ling Tian then flicked his wrist, sending the short sword in his hand out like a boomerang.

In an alley, a fortunate guard was hurriedly escaping for his life. Just as he was about to turn the corner, and his heart unconsciously relaxed a little, he felt an acute danger behind. Turning around, he happened to see the steel blade shoot towards his chest, clearly noting how it pierced through his chest to embed itself in the wall behind him, still trembling from the force. After that, his world became black...

Putong! Those guards who were originally frozen in their positions started falling down one by one. Before they hit the ground, all their heads split apart like watermelons...

Just now, when Ling Tian rushed forwards to meet them, he had beheaded all of them with one slash. However, due to his speed, they died before their heads could even leave the body, creating a scenario where they were frozen for a second in their positions much like being attacked by a fiend...

Upon seeing this scene, the guard with severed hands immediately started trembling, and despite opening his mouth, no sound could come out. It was only after rapidly blinking that he suddenly kneeled down on the floor, tears and mucus flowing out as he screamed loudly, "Spare me, hero! This little one deserves death, I… I won't dare to do this anymore…"

Ling Tian sneered, he was not interested at all in his nonsense. His foot viciously struck out, perfectly hitting the sensitive spot of the guard. A dull cracking sound could be heard, as though two eggs had been shattered… That guard did a backflip from the impact of Ling Tian's kick, and his eyes rolled back as he opened his mouth wide. But he dared not utter a sound, merely hyperventilating as his facial features scrunched up so hard they seemed to meld together. In an instant, his shirt was wet with cold sweat.

Glancing at the lady who stood by the side and was still in a daze, Ling Tian twisted his lips, "Hey, do you want to personally kill him?"

The lady in question blinked before coming back into reality. Her blackened face flushed with a red of embarrassment, and she suddenly picked up a blade as though possessed, viciously slashing down on the guard's head. The guard only had time to stammer a 'spare me' before his head too burst open, spilling all over the floor and creating a stench.

Throwing the blade to the side, the lady trembled, taking a while before she recovered. As she turned back to face Ling Tian, she bowed, "Many thanks to Sir for saving my life. This favor of protecting my chastity and reputation is not one that I will forget as long as I live. Dare I ask for your esteemed name, in hopes that I can repay your favor some day?!" While she had just narrowly escaped, she was actually able to restore her elegant demeanor, unlike normal ladies who would look as though their souls had been taken away.

Ling Tian had a teasing light in his eyes as he lightly laughed, "Miss Xiao, it looks like life is full of coincidences. Why is it that every time I see you, it has to be you being involved in some disastrous scene? The last time was so, this time too! Looks like I'm really your lucky star!"

"You..." The lady got a rude shock, staring with wide eyes at Ling Tian, before suddenly shrilling, "You're… Ling Tian?!"

"It's indeed this insignificant one, for Miss Xiao to remember the number one profligate 1 of Sky Bearing, I am truly honored." Ling Tian laughed in response, "However, Miss Xiao is the precious princess of the Xiao Family, so why would you be alone here in the Yu Family's territory? If not for this puzzling fact, I would have narrowly missed this incident."

This lady actually turned out to be Xiao YanXue, who ran away from home! It was just that her reason for turning up here was unknown. Ling Tian clearly stated that if not for the fact that he recognized her voice, he would not even bother to step in and settle this affair. He only decided that he had to save her after hearing her scream!

No matter the case, the Xiao and Ling Family had almost become in-laws once. Regardless of how heartless and cruel Ling Tian might have been, upon meeting such an incident, he was unable to stare heartlessly as someone he knew was violated, let alone someone like Xiao YanXue!

Out of Ling Tian's expectations, the moment Xiao YanXue realized he was Ling Tian, she froze dumbly on the spot, and her eyes started to water. Tears dripped down like a pearl necklace being broken, and she suddenly threw herself on Ling Tian, holding on to him with all her strength and bawling out loud. As she cried, her tiny fists constantly pounded on his back as she cried out, "Wuwuwu… it's you… it's really you… you darned b*st*rd… wuwuwu… it was so hard for me to find you, wuwu… why did you only come now, did you know, just now… wuwuwu…" Under the release of all her suppressed emotions, YanXue cried nonstop for a while, before suddenly fainting and collapsing onto Ling Tian's chest...

Ling Tian was left carrying a soft burden with a good smell and a brain full of fog. Why had the little princess of the Xiao Family suddenly appeared? Could there have been a problem with the Xiao Family? That did not seem very likely since Above Heavens was still situated inside Bright Jade City, so how could anything happen to the Xiao Family? With their power and influence, even the Yu Family couldn't do anything to them in a short period of time!

That being said, even if she was escaping from something, why would she not seek the Above Heavens people for asylum? If she did that, how could she have landed in this state where she got bullied by the patrol guards? Furthermore, hadn't she always viewed him as a thorn in the eye, why would she suddenly act so friendly towards him all of a sudden? It was as though… erm, as though she was leaving behind her last will and testament!

What sort of matter was going on?!

A good deal of doubts and suspicions were scattered around in disorder. Ling Tian could only clear his head with a shake. This lass had even fainted on his chest now, right where he had killed over a dozen patrol guards. The whole place reeked of blood, and naturally was not a good place to tarry. Besides, the next patrol squad from the Yu Family was approaching, and if they were spotted, it would not be a nice joke. It would be better if they got out first.

Carrying this soft bundle of pleasant-smelling temptation, Ling Tian could only let out a bitter smile and vault over the wall beside them. If anyone happened to be looking at him, they would just see him vanish as though he was never there. It would not be strange to suspect that oneself was previously looking at a ghost.

In her dreams, Xiao YanXue felt an unprecedented sense of security that she had not felt in a long while. Ever since she knew that the strongest expert in the world was chasing after him, she never had a good night's rest. While one could say that she was assured at being saved from disgrace just now, a greater reason for her sense of security was actually because she was able to meet with a completely intact Ling Tian! Not only was he not in danger, but also perfectly safe and sound.

Her original judgment of herself was unbearably lofty, thinking that she was not only clever and witty, with many schemes, but also managing the family business and increasing the volume of sales day after day. She believed that in the entire Heavenly Star Continent, there was actually no one that could be compared to her!

However, the last trip to Sky Bearing completely destroyed her worldview. Be it the brain she was so proud of, or wisdom, or even poetry and music which she so loved, there was not a single aspect in which she wasn't soundly beaten. And the person who beat her in all aspects was the person she had despised since she was young, the number one profligate in Sky Bearing, Ling Tian!

She had never believed any other lady capable enough to meet her talents, but with the appearance of Ling Chen, Xiao YanXue had already lost confidence in herself. Towards the talents of Ling Chen, she only had praise! However, this outstanding Ling Chen was merely the maidservant of Ling Tian, with her every single aspect being carefully groomed by Ling Tian himself! At that point, Xiao YanXue did not dare to believe, did not want to believe, and could not bring herself to believe it! How could the number one profligate actually have the ability to teach someone, let alone someone as outstanding as Ling Chen?

Following that was the literary meet, where Ling Tian used his peerless literary talent to move her heart. How could she still refuse to believe? The truth was in front of her!

In front of him, everything that she was proud of about herself was unworthy to even be mentioned! The most embarrassing part, however, was that she had maintained that sort of haughty and proud demeanor to look down on him. But that day, at her most helpless, he was the one who had saved her. Ever since she found out that Ling Tian was her savior, she had always felt some shame when facing him.

To give an example, it was as though a person who failed the official exams was bragging about himself in front of someone else, and even using a tone that signified the other was trash. Then the former finds out that the person that he was bragging to was actually the top scholar! But words spoken could not be taken back. This sort of embarrassment was indescribable.

From the disdain she felt towards him while far away at her home, to the disregard she gave him when she saw him and even the scorn when they conversed as well as the contempt she felt from her bones towards him. In the end, all she found out was that she was actually the one who should be looking up to and admiring him!

Chapter 461: A Maiden's Thoughts

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT, Rock

Amid her complicated thoughts, Ling Tian's shadow was unknowingly carved onto Xiao YanXue's heart. When she left Sky Bearing back then, it was truly a gut-wrenching feeling.

It was because of this hazy feeling of concern, a fairytale-like dream of hers, and intoxicated mood that made Xiao YanXue daydream about Ling Tian time and time again. After all, Ling Tian was supposed to be her prospective husband! Every time she thought about this, Xiao YanXue would feel a sourness in her heart and endless depression would surround her. It was also these complicated thoughts of hers that gave her the courage to escape from home after hearing her family's decision!

Xiao YanXue knew that she was the precious jewel of the Xiao Family and she had also made great contributions to the family. Furthermore, her marriage should be decided by her alone and she was extremely proud of this fact. She was certain of this because her grandfather, Xiao FengHan, had annulled the marriage with the Ling Family despite his decades of brotherhood with Ling Zhan after knowing that Ling Tian was a hopeless profligate son. This made Xiao YanXue feel that she was extremely special and her happiness was what mattered to her grandfather. All other things were of little significance as compared to that.

Xiao YanXue had never imagined that she would ever make a sacrifice for the family. Or more accurately, the family would sacrifice her in exchange for something else. However, she had personally heard her two grandfathers who doted on her the most decide to exchange her marriage for an alliance with Eastern Zhao. After hearing that, Xiao YanXue ran to her parents to make a complaint and she stubbornly felt that her parents would definitely stand up for her. In the end, her mother told her that she would not suffer if she were to be married over to Eastern Zhao and her father told her that she should be proud that she could make a sacrifice for the family!

She was devastated! She suddenly felt that she was helpless and alone in this familiar home which she had grown up in!

Am I no more than a tool? Was I a tool to help the family earn money in the past and a tool to help the family form an alliance now?!

Will my whole life be destroyed just like that?

What's my worth?!

If she did not see Ling Tian and did not discover the shocking talent beneath his profligate disguise, perhaps she wouldn't be so conflicted about her family's decision. However, after seeing the miraculous performance of Ling Tian, how would the prideful Xiao YanXue be willing to marry someone ordinary?

When her life was in the darkest period and she was unable to fall asleep, she felt the Blood Phoenix Jaspar Bracelet on her wrist. This was the family heirloom of the Ling Family and also the token which Old Madam Ling had given to her. Only the daughter-in-law of the Xiao Family would be worthy of this item! She felt the coolness from the Blood Phoenix Jaspar Bracelet, and it woke her up as Ling Tian's face became clearer and clearer in her mind. In this world, is he perhaps the only one capable of protecting me? I want to look for him! I want to see him!

Holding on to her desperation and a final trace of hope, Xiao YanXue left the Xiao Residence in the night and headed towards Sky Bearing in disguise. Before she could arrive at Sky Bearing, she heard news of Wei ChengPing inviting the Martial Order Medallion owner to kill Ling Tian! This made the little lass at a complete loss.

What was the use of her going to Sky Bearing if Ling Tian wasn't there? With the ties of Old Madam Ling and her grandfather, she would probably be sent back to the Xiao Family immediately after she set foot in the Ling Residence. Furthermore, what could she tell the members of the Ling Family? That she liked Ling Tian and wanted to marry him? Even if the marriage between both the families wasn't annulled, that wasn't an appropriate action!

In the whole Ling Family, Ling Tian was probably the only person who did not place her grandfather in his sights! In fact, in the whole world, there probably wasn't anyone who Ling Tian placed in his sight! He was the only one who was like a carefree eagle soaring through the skies, doing as he wished!

After patiently waiting for a few days, Xiao YanXue risked the exposure of her identity to find out that Ling Tian was heading to Bright Jade City from the Xiao Family's spies. While she did not know why Ling Tian was heading to such a dangerous place, Xiao YanXue had still traveled to Bright Jade City without hesitation!

Xiao YanXue had only entered the city a mere four hours earlier than Ling Tian. How would she be able to know that a storm had just descended onto Bright Jade City? The Yu Family was like a red-eyed gambler, locking down the city and killing the citizens like they were ants. After Xiao YanXue was discovered in the inn, she escaped all the way here, was captured and almost humiliated!

In her hopelessness and when she thought that she had no one to rely on, she was actually saved! Furthermore, the one who saved her was the very person who she was looking for!

He is safe and saved the helpless me! He saved me again!

She was brought from the pits of hell to the heavens and hopelessness to security. Xiao YanXue could no longer endure the intense fluctuations of her emotions and fell unconscious!

Even if she fainted, she felt at ease and blessed, because Xiao YanXue was clear that she had landed in his embrace…

Thank the heavens for their arrangements!

The fate between the two of them was just so mystical!

What a good sleep!

Xiao YanXue awoke up from her slumber and felt unusually refreshed. She immediately realized that she was lying in a comfortable bed with the sun shining in from the window and covering her with a layer of comfortable warmth. Looking down at her body, she realized that she was neatly dressed up with her torn collar being covered up properly. Looking at her clothes, Xiao YanXue's cheeks began to burn as she thought, He… did he see my body? Did he take advantage of me?

After such a frightening experience that concerned her chastity, Xiao YanXue's reaction was completely different from what an ordinary lady would have. There was not a single trace of fear in her eyes but she only let out a long sigh. After sitting up, she hugged her thighs and stroked the Blood Phoenix Jasper Bracelet on her wrist with deep thought. At times, she would be filled with joy. At other times, she would be filled with worry, sadness or shyness. Suddenly, her face turned bright red as she let out a squeal and hid under her blanket, hiding the Blood Phoenix Jasper Bracelet in her bosom.

With a creaking sound, the wooden door was open and someone walked in. Following which, Ling Tian's voice could be heard, "Awake? How are you feeling?"

Her head which was hidden in the blanket shook, but Xiao YanXue did not let make a sound. However, her other hand which was still outside of the blanket slowly began turning red.

Ling Tian let out a dry cough and said, "I know that Miss has suffered a great shock. However, it wouldn't be good for Miss Xiao to hide under the blanket on such a hot day. It wouldn't be good if you end up having heat rash or bedsore."

"I don't need you to care!" Under the blanket, Xiao YanXue's embarrassed voice sounded. Only then did she realize a problem: She had come all the way here from the Xiao Family in search for Ling Tian but did not have a proper status or reason. Just what kind of a status should she use to face Ling Tian? How would Ling Tian see her in the future? What should she do from now on?

Thinking about that, Xiao YanXue felt her body heat up from embarrassment. In a fit of rage, she had ran out of her family but did not consider the consequences. Just how should she face her family in the future? Before meeting Ling Tian, Xiao YanXue was only occupied with the thought of finding Ling Tian to confirm his safety. Now that her wish was fulfilled and she knew that he was safe, her heart could not help but sink as she thought of the future.

With a 'hu' sound, Ling Tian pulled away the blanket that was covering Xiao YanXue's face. She let out a shriek and held on tightly to the corner of the blanket only to hear Ling Tian say, "If Miss Xiao did not change your appearances, you would naturally be a world-class beauty. But now that your face is so dark, are you afraid of me looking at it?"

Xiao YanXue let out a grunt and rolled her eyes at Ling Tian, "Young noble Ling has many peerless beauties by your side to accompany you. YanXue's lowly appearance would naturally not catch young noble Ling's eyes."

Ling Tian was taken aback for a moment before breaking out into a chuckle, "Before coming here today, I thought that even if someone didn't kowtow in thanks for saving her life, she would at least treat me respectfully. I never imagined that she would actually face me with a spear and a pole. Miss Xiao's valor is truly out of my expectations. I am truly in admiration of the different upbringing of the Xiao Family."

Xiao YanXue's face turned pinkish. She knew that she was the one in the wrong but upon thinking about how she was so worried about this 'bad person', she could not help but act unreasonably, "What does the Xiao Family's upbringing method has got to do with you?" After saying that, she thought about how her family has treated her and could not help but tear.

Ling Tian could naturally read Xiao YanXue's thoughts and shook his head lightly. He then poured her a glass of water before asking gently, "Did something happen in the Xiao Family?"

With just a single question filled with concern and gentleness, Xiao YanXue's heart which was full of grievances finally found an outlet to vent. Her tears rolled down her eyes as she began choking on her tears first, before weeping silently and bawling her eyes out as she dived into Ling Tian's embrace.

As she cried, she began to explain the incident to Ling Tian. By the time she was done, Ling Tian's shirt was drenched to the point it had even wet his pants.

Ling Tian let out a sigh, Another big trouble! Even the Xiao Family's affair is my problem now!