Chapter 60
"What method? What method?"
Guard Li was initially taken aback, then quickly asked.
The other guards also looked over.
"In a nearby village, there is a renowned doctor..."
As Mago spoke, Guard Li and the others' eyes gradually brightened.
They had heard of this Dr. Chen before. It was said that his medical skills were superb and had been praised by many noblemen, including the County Magistrate.
It was unexpected that this renowned doctor lived in a nearby village instead of the city.
With such a skilled doctor nearby, Guard Li and the others immediately decided to give up the risky plan of taking the young master back to the city.
"Brother Ma, where is Jiuli Village?" Guard Li asked anxiously.
"It's about three or four miles from here. I have a subordinate who is very familiar with the area and can take you there!" Mago said.
He had previously sent his subordinate, Xiao Tian, to investigate Lu Qing in Jiuli Village. Unexpectedly, this came in handy here.
Mago immediately called Xiao Tian over, and under his guidance, they set off for Jiuli Village.
On the way, Mago learned how young master Wei had fallen into the valley.
It turned out that he had chased a peculiar little beast to the edge of a cliff and, unwilling to give up, lost his footing and fell.
Fortunately, the valley was not very deep and had some trees to break his fall. Additionally, due to the Wei family's substantial resources and nurturing, young master Wei had reached the Qi and Blood Realm, which meant he had good physical fitness. This barely kept him from dying immediately.
Otherwise, even ten lives wouldn't have been enough.
Listening to Guard Li's story, Mago was speechless.
How foolish must one be to chase a wild animal off a cliff, especially as a Qi and Blood Realm martial artist?
They hurried to Jiuli Village and, under Xiao Tian's guidance, headed straight for Dr. Chen's Halfway House.
At the entrance, Mago saw a familiar figure.
He shouted, "Lu Qing, Lu Qing, save us, save us!"
Lu Qing, who was drying medicinal herbs in front of the courtyard, was startled.
He turned and was surprised to see Mago leading the group. He had thought he wouldn't see him until the next Grand Bazaar, yet here they were, meeting again so soon.
"Master Ma, what's going on?" Lu Qing asked.
"Lu Qing, is Dr. Chen home? We have a gravely injured patient who urgently needs his help!" Mago said urgently.
Lu Qing then noticed the stretcher behind them. Though shocked to see the well-dressed young man lying on it, he knew the situation was critical and quickly stepped aside.
"Please come in. Master is resting inside. I'll go call him right away!"
He ran into the courtyard.
Mago and the others quickly followed.
Dr. Chen was only lightly napping inside and had already been awakened by the commotion outside.
By the time Mago and his group entered the courtyard, he had stepped out of the house.
Seeing the pale-faced young master Wei on the stretcher, he immediately realized the severity of the situation.
He checked the pulse and his expression turned grave.
"Quickly, carry him inside."
He instructed Lu Qing, "A Qing, quickly prepare a blood-replenishing medicine. White Atractylodes, Angelica... Boil three bowls of water with high heat, and be quick!"
"Yes, Master!"
Lu Qing immediately ran to the medicine cabinet to gather the herbs.
Despite spending most of his free time on martial arts training, Lu Qing had also been learning medical knowledge from his master at the Halfway House.
With his special abilities, Lu Qing learned quickly. In just a few days, he had mastered the skills of gathering herbs and even learned simple methods of decoction.
After gathering the herbs, Lu Qing began to brew the medicine as instructed.
The medicine stove was specially designed to adjust the fire intensity freely.
Lu Qing used a fierce fire, and before long, the decoction was ready.
He poured the medicinal liquid into a bowl and concentrated.
Quickly, the liquid emitted a faint white glow.
[Blood-Replenishing Decoction: A soup made from various herbs, beneficial for replenishing blood, generating new blood, and protecting the heart meridian.]
[Due to the fierce boiling, the medicinal properties were somewhat damaged and could only achieve about seventy percent of its usual effectiveness.]
Seeing the information from his special ability, Lu Qing felt relieved.
As long as the medicine was not wrong, the slight damage to its properties could be tolerated. Given the urgency, seventy percent effectiveness was already quite good.
Confirming there was no problem with the medicine, Lu Qing quickly carried it to the patient.
By this time, young master Wei had been moved to the sickroom. Except for Guard Li, the others were asked to wait outside by Dr. Chen.
Seeing Lu Qing approaching, everyone made way, not daring to hinder him in the slightest.
Lu Qing entered the room and saw young master Wei, now shirtless, with many silver needles inserted into his body.
The terrifying wound on his abdomen made Lu Qing's heart skip a beat.
"Master, the medicine is ready."
Lu Qing handed over the medicine.
Dr. Chen took the bowl, sniffed it, and nodded slightly after confirming there was no problem.
"You feed him the medicine," Dr. Chen instructed.
"Yes, Master."
Lu Qing took the spoon, scooped a spoonful of the decoction, and carefully fed it to young master Wei.
However, young master Wei was already semi-conscious and couldn't swallow the medicine.
But this did not stump Dr. Chen.
He pressed several points on young master Wei's throat, and miraculously, his throat started to move, swallowing the medicine.
With their combined effort, young master Wei gradually consumed the entire bowl of decoction.
Dr. Chen continued applying acupuncture to help him absorb the medicine.
After a while, with the medicinal effects and acupuncture, young master Wei's face finally regained some color, and his chest began to rise and fall slightly.
Guard Li, who had been watching nervously, finally felt relieved seeing this.
He knew that the lives of the young master and his guards had been pulled back from the brink.
"Dr. Chen, how is my young master?"
Dr. Chen pondered for a moment and said, "The boy is quite lucky. Despite such a large wound on his abdomen, it didn't damage his internal organs or intestines, which is fortunate amidst misfortune."
"However, he has lost a lot of blood, his head was injured, and there are many cuts on his limbs. His situation remains critical."
"For now, I can only use the decoction and acupuncture to temporarily sustain his life. As for when he will wake up, it's hard to say."
Hearing that young master's life was temporarily saved, Guard Li finally relaxed a bit.
As long as he was alive, there was hope. If the young master had died, even if they escaped, their families would have no way out.
"Dr. Chen, what can we do now?" Guard Li asked.
Dr. Chen thought for a moment and said, "The biggest issue now is his severe blood loss. The abdominal wound is only an external injury and didn't harm the intestines. If we had enough aged ginseng, Polygonum multiflorum, and notoginseng, I'd be more confident in saving his life."
Hearing this, Dr. Chen felt a bit regretful. If only they still had the ginseng Lu Qing had brought a few days ago, he would have had a better chance of preserving the young master's vitality.
Given the current situation, even if the boy survives, he might be severely weakened.
"Ginseng, Polygonum multiflorum, and notoginseng, right? Dr. Chen, don't worry. I'll immediately send someone back to the city to fetch them!"
Guard Li said as he walked out.
Outside, Mago and the others were anxiously waiting. Seeing Guard Li come out, they rushed up.
"How is the young master?"
"The young master is temporarily safe."
Guard Li's words immediately relieved everyone, especially the guards, who looked as if they had survived a disaster.
"But the young master is still in a bad state. Old Zhao, Xiao Gu, you two return and report this to the mistress. Also, ask her to retrieve some ginseng, Polygonum multiflorum, and notoginseng from the medicine storeroom. Dr. Chen said these herbs would greatly increase the young master's chances of survival..."
Following Guard Li's orders, the two named guards solemnly complied and quickly left.
Mago, who overheard, had a glint in his eyes.
He then pulled Xiao Tian aside and whispered.
"Go back and fetch the battle blade hanging in my study."
Chapter 61-62
"Master, please eat something first."
Lu Qing brought in some food.
Because Young Master Wei's condition was not optimistic, the old doctor had to stay by his side at all times and could hardly leave the ward.
Lu Qing had gone to the kitchen to make some food and brought it over.
"Mm, just leave it here, I'll eat later."
The old doctor was checking Young Master Wei's pulse, his brows slightly furrowed.
At this moment, Guard Li was arranging matters outside, leaving only the master and apprentice in the ward with the unconscious Young Master Wei.
Lu Qing thought for a moment and asked, "Master, can this young master be saved?"
"It's hard to say." The old doctor sighed. "He lost too much blood. When he was brought in, there was hardly any blood left in his body. If it weren't for his strong constitution and the life-saving medicine given by Guard Li and the others, he wouldn't have survived until now."
"Master, I see that this young master comes from an extraordinary family. If he doesn't wake up, will the Wei family blame us?" Lu Qing asked.
The old doctor paused.
Then he turned to Lu Qing and said, "Lu Qing, you must remember that as healers, the most important thing is to avoid hesitation and second-guessing."
"Once we decide to save someone, we must be fully dedicated and focused on the treatment. This is medical ethics."
"If you don't want to treat someone, you should leave before starting."
"But once you begin treatment, you must do your best, so you can have a clear conscience."
"I understand, Master," Lu Qing replied earnestly.
"As for your concern..." The old doctor hesitated for a moment, then said, "Don't worry, the Wei family is a large family, and the head of the Wei family is a reasonable person. We are just doing our job of saving lives. Even if something unfortunate happens to this young master, they won't blame us."
Lu Qing seemed thoughtful.
After leaving the ward, Lu Qing was still pondering his master's words.
He did not entirely agree with his master.
His master had a kind heart and couldn't bear to see others suffer, so he treated all patients equally, as long as they weren't evil.
But Lu Qing did not have such noble sentiments.
He preferred to help people according to his own preferences.
However, he did agree with one thing his master said.
If you're going to treat someone, you should do your best so you have no regrets.
"Young Master Lu, Young Master Lu."
While Lu Qing was deep in thought, someone called out to him.
Looking up, he saw Mago waving to him from outside the courtyard.
"Master Ma, what is it?"
Lu Qing walked over.
The Wei family's guards, who were standing in the courtyard, only glanced over and then ignored them.
To them, nothing was more important than their young master's safety at this moment.
Lu Qing followed Mago to a secluded place.
There was another person waiting there, whom Lu Qing recognized as one of Mago's men.
"Master Ma, what is this about?" Lu Qing asked.
"Young Master Lu, thanks to you and Master Chen, Young Master Wei's life was saved. If anything had happened to him, you wouldn't see me here now," Mago said with some relief.
"Master Ma, you're too kind. It was mainly my master's skill. I only helped a little," Lu Qing replied.
"Young Master Lu, you're too modest. Your skill in preparing and brewing medicine is exceptional. You'll surely become a great doctor like your master in the future."
Mago was not ignorant.
In such an urgent situation, Lu Qing had perfectly prepared the life-saving medicine as Master Chen required.
This could not have been done without a solid medical foundation and strong psychological resilience.
According to his subordinate Xiao Tian's investigation, Lu Qing had not been Master Chen's apprentice for long.
To have grown so much in such a short time, Lu Qing's talent in medicine might not be inferior to his martial arts talent.
A young man with exceptional talent in both martial arts and medicine, Lu Qing's importance in Mago's eyes had only increased.
"Young Master Lu, didn't you say you wanted a battle blade? I brought it for you."
Before Lu Qing could continue being modest, Mago spoke again.
"So soon?" Lu Qing was surprised. "Didn't you say it would be ready on the next Grand Bazaar day?"
"Young Master Lu's matter is naturally important to me," Mago said, signaling Xiao Tian behind him. "Xiao Tian, bring the blade."
Xiao Tian immediately presented the long blade he had been holding.
Mago took it and handed it to Lu Qing.
"This battle blade was crafted by a top blacksmith in the city. It can cut through iron like mud, is extremely durable, and has a simple design that matches your requirements perfectly."
Lu Qing took the blade and unsheathed it, hearing a pleasant ringing sound.
Looking at the blade in his hand, he saw that the blade's surface was finely textured, the edge was exceptionally sharp, and it exuded a chilling aura that made his skin tingle.
After sheathing the blade, Lu Qing said, "Master Ma, this blade must be very valuable. I can't afford it."
Even though Lu Qing didn't know much about swords, he could tell that this blade was worth far more than a few dozen taels of silver.
"You don't need to pay, Young Master Lu. Consider it a gift from me," Mago said.
"I can't accept such an expensive gift," Lu Qing shook his head, trying to return the blade.
"Young Master Lu, please don't decline. You and your master saved Young Master Wei's life, which means you saved my life too. A life-saving favor cannot be repaid with just a battle blade, so please accept it," Mago insisted.
After some back-and-forth, Lu Qing finally said, "Alright, I'll hold onto the blade for now. If Young Master Wei wakes up, I'll accept it as a gift."
If something happened to Young Master Wei, he could always use his family's hundred-year-old ginseng.
"Agreed, we'll do as you say. For now, the blade is yours. If Young Master Wei wakes up, it's yours to keep," Mago said.
Lu Qing didn't know what to say to Mago's persistent attitude.
In the end, the blade stayed with Lu Qing for the time being.
However, this also piqued Lu Qing's curiosity about the Wei family.
What kind of family could make a Tendons and Bones Realm expert like Mago so fearful?
And the Wei family's guards, their words and actions showed immense respect for their master.
"Master Ma, what kind of family is the Wei family that makes you so respectful?" Lu Qing couldn't help but ask.
"The Wei family?" Mago's face showed a complicated expression. "The Wei family is quite something."
Chapter 63
"The Wei family is the most prominent clan in the county city, but it is not merely a local family in the county government."
"In fact, the Wei family's influence extends throughout the entire prefecture, and it is even rumored to have connections in the royal capital."
"Young Master Lu, with such a grand family, a mighty clan, can you blame me for being fearful?"
Upon hearing Mago's explanation, Lu Qing finally understood why he held the Wei family in such reverence.
However, he was still somewhat puzzled, "If the Wei family is so powerful, why do they reside in a small county?"
"That, I am not sure," Mago shook his head. "Perhaps it is because Cang County is the birthplace of the Wei family."
"And from what I know, most of the Wei family's industries and forces have already moved to the prefecture and the capital. In the county, there remains only an ancestral home and some minor businesses."
"However, the head of the Wei family has always lived in the ancestral home, for reasons unknown."
"Even though most of the Wei family's industries have moved, their status in the county remains unchallenged."
It seemed that the Wei family harbored secrets.
Lu Qing pondered deeply.
Otherwise, it was hard to explain such peculiar behavior.
A grand family head, willing to remain in a small county rather than moving to the more prosperous prefecture or capital.
However, no matter what the secret was, it was not something he could investigate at his current level.
So, Lu Qing dismissed the matter.
Hearing about the Wei family's immense strength, he felt somewhat relieved.
With the Wei family's resources, they surely wouldn't lack precious medicinal herbs.
As long as the two guards returned quickly and Young Master Wei could endure through the night, his life should be saved.
In fact, the two guards returned much faster than Lu Qing had anticipated.
Because of the critically ill patient, not knowing when his master might need to brew medicine, Lu Qing did not return home that night but stayed at the Halfway House.
That night, Lu Qing sat on a chair, holding Xiao Yan, drowsy. The little one slept soundly in his arms.
Suddenly, a commotion outside woke him up.
Seeing that Xiao Yan was still asleep, he carried her to his master's room, letting her continue to sleep, and then walked outside.
Outside, the courtyard was brightly lit, with many people present.
On both sides of the courtyard, more than a dozen burly men stood in two rows, holding lanterns, illuminating the place.
Lu Qing saw Guard Li bowing and whispering to a stern-faced middle-aged man.
"You mean to say that the young master's injuries are too severe to be moved?"
After hearing Guard Li's report, the stern middle-aged man asked.
"Yes, Steward, Doctor Chen said that the young master's condition is still critical. It's best to rest here temporarily. Once he wakes up and his condition improves, it will be safer to move him back to the mansion," Guard Li replied.
"I want to see the young master."
The stern man, addressed as the steward, did not immediately agree but made a request.
Guard Li immediately looked at Doctor Chen.
The old doctor nodded, "Only one or two people can enter. Too many people might bring in evil spirits, which would be harmful to the young master."
Hearing this, the stern man immediately said, "You all wait outside. Only Doctor Chen and I will go in."
"Yes, Steward."
Watching the two enter the room, Lu Qing felt a shock.
In his heart, he murmured, "Internal Organs Realm..."
Inside the ward, as they approached the bed, seeing the pale-faced, closed-eyed, dry-lipped young master, the Wei family steward's heart tightened.
After examining the wound on the young master's abdomen, his brows furrowed even more.
Before arriving, he had thought that those two scoundrels exaggerated the young master's injuries to shirk responsibility.
Now it seemed that those two scoundrels had not only not lied but had even understated the severity.
What nonsense about the life being saved and the condition stabilized.
As someone with some medical knowledge, the steward could see that the young master's current state was truly hanging by a thread, with death potentially imminent at any moment.
This was after the doctor's treatment. He could not imagine what the young master's state was like before.
Recalling the family head's instructions, the Wei family steward turned around and bowed deeply to Doctor Chen.
"Thank you, Doctor Chen, for saving my young master's life. The Wei family will remember this great kindness."
"No need for that. I was just doing my duty as a healer," the old doctor waved his hand. "Moreover, the young master is not out of danger yet. It is still too early to say these things."
The Wei family steward quickly said, "I heard that Doctor Chen needs ginseng and Tian Qi? Before I came, the family head specially instructed me to bring many medicinal herbs. Please follow me outside to select the herbs."
(Note: "Tian Qi" also known as "Panax notoginseng", is a type of medicinal herb highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to stop bleeding, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain. Tian Qi is known for its ability to promote blood circulation.)
"Oh, you brought ginseng?"
The old doctor brightened up.
Although his medical skills were superb, even the best doctor could not work without good medicinal herbs.
The two returned to the courtyard.
"Bring the box up."
At the steward's command, two men immediately brought up a box.
Opening the box, they saw rows of long boxes inside.
The steward stepped forward and opened these boxes.
Inside were top-grade medicinal herbs, all dried and cured.
There were over a dozen ginseng roots alone.
Lu Qing saw that some of them were even larger than the two brought by the little black beast.
Lu Qing couldn't help but be amazed.
As expected of a grand family, their foundation was deep. Casually, they brought out so many hundred-year-old ginseng.
"Doctor Chen, use these herbs as you please. If they are not enough, I will send more from the mansion," the steward said respectfully.
"These will be more than enough."
The old doctor chuckled and only took a few boxes, each containing ginseng, Polygonum multiflorum, and Tian Qi.
"I will go to the pharmacy to prepare the medicine. You all have been working hard. Take a rest. If you need anything, just ask my disciple."
The old doctor pointed to Lu Qing.
The Wei family steward immediately bowed to Lu Qing, "Thank you, young master."
"It's no trouble. Just call me if you need anything," Lu Qing quickly returned the bow.
At the same time, he couldn't help but marvel.
As expected of a grand family, this steward was clearly a highly respected and authoritative figure in the Wei family.
Judging by Guard Li and the others' attitudes towards him, it was a respect that came from the core.
Moreover, Lu Qing's supernatural ability had revealed that this steward was a martial arts expert in the Internal Organs Realm.
Yet, despite his stature, when asking for help, he could be humble and respectful, giving others plenty of face, without any arrogance or bullying.
A steward with such demeanor—no wonder the Wei family could develop from a county clan to a grand family with far-reaching influence.
The old doctor's medicine preparation was swift. That night, he brewed the medicine.
Then, in the presence of the Wei family steward, he fed the life-saving decoction to the young master.
After drinking the decoction, with the old doctor's acupuncture to stimulate the medicinal effects.
Soon, the steward saw a hint of color return to the young master's pale face.
His breathing also became steadier, no longer as faint as a wisp.
This change uplifted the steward's spirits and strengthened his confidence in the old doctor.
The next morning, at the break of dawn.
The steward saw the young master's eyelids twitch.
Chapter 64
"Young Master, Young Master!"
The head steward of the Wei family saw the eyelids of the young master twitch and couldn't help but call out softly.
Finally, under his call, Young Master Wei slowly opened his eyes.
At first, his eyes were full of confusion, but after a while, they gradually brightened with clarity.
"Where am I?"
"Young Master, you are finally awake!"
The head steward's face lit up with excitement, tears almost falling.
"Uncle Hai?" Young Master Wei turned his head, surprised, "Why are you here, and why am I lying here?"
Young Master Wei tried to get up, but as soon as he moved, a sharp pain surged through him, causing him to cry out in pain, breaking into a cold sweat.
"Don't move, your wound hasn't healed yet, be careful not to tear it open again."
Old Doctor Chen gently pressed him down and took out a silver needle, pricking him a few times.
With this help, the intense pain Young Master Wei felt greatly lessened, and he slowly regained his composure.
"Who are you? And Uncle Hai, why does my body hurt so much?"
"Young Master, do you remember anything? Guard Li and the others said you accidentally fell into a ravine in the mountains, and your stomach was cut open by rocks. You were in critical condition, but thanks to Old Doctor Chen here, your life was saved."
The head steward explained slowly.
He had never fully believed the story told by Guard Li and the others.
Now that the young master was awake, he could finally ask for the truth.
"The mountains, falling into a ravine..." Young Master Wei tried hard to recall.
Finally, he remembered what happened before he lost consciousness.
"Yes, I went into the mountains with Guard Li and the others, wanting to find a special birthday gift for my father."
"In the mountains, I encountered a very peculiar black beast. I told Guard Li and the others not to interfere, wanting to catch it myself."
"I didn't expect the beast to be so agile. I couldn't catch it, and as I chased it, I reached the edge of a cliff. Seeing the beast about to jump off, I hastily followed, and after that, I can't remember much."
Hearing this, the head steward was relatively calm, but Old Doctor Chen's heart skipped a beat.
The black beast described by Young Master Wei sounded like the little beast that often came to Lu Qing for fish.
"It seems Guard Li and the others weren't lying." The head steward nodded secretly.
If the guards had lied even a little, they would have faced unbearable punishment.
Now, although they still couldn't avoid punishment, at least their lives were spared.
"By the way, Uncle Hai, you said my stomach was cut open?"
At this moment, Young Master Wei suddenly reacted, showing a terrified expression as he tried to sit up and look at his stomach.
However, the head steward, prepared this time, gently pressed him down.
He comforted him softly, "Young Master, don't worry. The wound on your stomach is not serious anymore. With some rest, it will heal completely."
"But, but you said my stomach was cut open!"
Young Master Wei's face was still full of fear.
He couldn't imagine what it looked like to have his stomach cut open.
Can a person still live with their stomach cut open?
The head steward could only continue to comfort him softly.
Fortunately, Young Master Wei was weak, and after being awake for a while, he fell back into a deep sleep.
When the news that the young master had woken up reached outside, the Wei family's guards cheered.
Especially Guard Li and the others, who felt a huge weight lifted off their shoulders.
The young master waking up meant his life was no longer in danger.
Although they couldn't avoid punishment, at least their lives were spared.
As for Mago, he was almost moved to tears upon hearing the news.
He hadn't slept well since Young Master Wei came to his place.
Last night, he didn't dare to rest at all, fearing any disturbance and bad news.
Now, hearing truly good news, the heavy burden in his heart lifted, and even as a strong Tendons and Bones Realm martial artist, he felt his limbs go weak and almost collapsed to the ground.
"Old Doctor Chen, it is all thanks to your miraculous skills that my young master survived. The Wei family is deeply grateful."
"I have already sent someone to report this to the family head. In a few days, our Wei family will present you with generous gifts."
The head steward deeply bowed to the old doctor.
After seeing the young master's condition before he woke up, the head steward knew it was all due to the old doctor's efforts that saved the young master's life.
If those useless guards had tried to bring the young master back to the city, he might not have survived the journey.
"No need for such courtesy. I was just doing my duty as a doctor." The old doctor waved his hand indifferently.
"Old Doctor Chen truly has the heart of a healer," the head steward praised.
No wonder even the County Magistrate spoke highly of this old doctor. His demeanor surpassed many famous doctors in the provincial and capital cities.
"Old Doctor Chen, now that my young master is awake, when can he return home?"
The old doctor thought for a moment, "Not yet. The young master is still weak, and the wound on his stomach hasn't healed. Any jostling could cause the wound to reopen and bleed profusely."
"He needs a few more days of rest to regain some strength and let the wound scab over before he can travel."
The head steward naturally trusted the old doctor's judgment.
He immediately said, "Then we will trouble the old doctor for a few more days."
"This is no problem. However, my place is small, and I'm afraid I can't accommodate so many people."
"I wouldn't dare trouble the old doctor. I will have the others find their own lodging. Only I will stay here."
"That's fine. I can manage to prepare one or two guest rooms, but the conditions are simple. I hope the head steward won't mind."
"Not at all."
"I will have my disciple prepare a room for you."
After this, the head steward went outside to instruct the guards, telling them the young master needed a few more days of rest.
Some were to return to report to the main house, while others would stay with Mago, ready to act at any time.
As for himself, he stayed at the Halfway House to take care of the young master.
No one dared question the head steward's words, so the Wei family's guards quickly dispersed, and the Halfway House gradually returned to peace.
Only Mago felt troubled, as the Wei family's guards had to stay at his place, putting him on edge again.
However, he didn't dare refuse and went to make arrangements.
"Master, the guest room is ready."
Lu Qing came to inform his master after preparing a guest room.
"Thank you, young master."
The head steward looked at Lu Qing, his gaze filled with some surprise.
Previously, he was too worried about the young master to pay attention to anything else.
Now he noticed that the old doctor's disciple, so young, was already a martial artist in the Qi and Blood Realm.
Such talent could be called genius even in the provincial city.
"Head steward?"
The old doctor noticed the head steward's gaze and called out.
The head steward came to his senses and praised, "A great teacher produces outstanding students. Your disciple is extraordinary, already accomplished in martial arts at such a young age."
"My disciple just had some good fortune and a few lucky encounters to break through. It's his good fortune to receive your praise."
The old doctor spoke modestly, but his satisfaction was evident on his face.
"Haha, the old doctor is too modest."
The head steward laughed, secretly thinking that the family's gratitude gifts should also consider the old doctor's disciple.
Lu Qing remained silent, adhering to his role as a disciple.
After the two finished talking, he respectfully said, "Master, I have prepared breakfast and put it in the kitchen. Also, I would like to go home for a bit."
He had been busy at the Halfway House for a day and a night, not knowing how things were at home.
More importantly, he hadn't fed the black beast last night and wondered how it was doing.
If it got angry and destroyed the house, it would be a disaster.
"Go ahead. You've been busy for a long time. Take a good rest. The young master's condition is stable now, no need to keep watch constantly," the old doctor nodded.
Lu Qing bowed and went to the old doctor's room, picking up the still-sleeping Xiao Yan.
The magic of the Blue-armored Fish Stone had to be mentioned again.
Despite the commotion in the courtyard last night, Xiao Yan hadn't woken up and slept soundly in the room.
Lu Qing didn't wake her, carrying her as he walked down the mountain.
When he got home, Lu Qing immediately checked the front door.
Seeing it intact, he sighed in relief.
It seemed the black beast hadn't gotten angry and destroyed the house.
Relaxing, Lu Qing opened the door and was about to enter.
Suddenly, he sensed something was wrong.
Instinctively, he looked up.
Then he saw, in the corner of the eaves above, a pair of bright eyes looking at him with grievance.
Chapter 65
"..."
A person and a beast, four eyes met, but no words were exchanged.
Seeing the aggrieved look in the little black beast's eyes, Lu Qing fell silent.
He hadn't expected that this little creature would hide up here.
And judging by its appearance, it must have been waiting all night.
"Little one, have you been waiting here all night?"
After a long silence, Lu Qing asked.
The little black beast didn't move, but its eyes looked even more pitiful.
"... Sorry, I had something to do last night and wasn't home."
"..." The little black beast still didn't move, but there was a hint of mist in its eyes.
Seeing the little black beast on the verge of tears, Lu Qing felt a strange sense of guilt.
If he remembered correctly, this little creature was still just a cub.
Moreover, it was still his creditor.
After all, he had taken its hundred-year-old ginseng for free.
"Why don't you come inside with me?" Lu Qing tentatively asked. "I still have some fish in the kitchen."
Seeing the mist in the little beast's eyes recede slightly, Lu Qing opened the door and walked in.
When he carried Xiao Yan to the room and came back out, he saw the little black beast sitting on a stool, watching him.
Lu Qing smiled, went to the kitchen, dumped all the leftover fish into a wooden basin, and brought it out, placing it in front of the little beast.
Seeing the large basin filled to the brim with fish, the little black beast's eyes lit up.
It immediately pounced and started eating voraciously.
The previous grievance vanished without a trace.
Watching the little black beast eat happily, Lu Qing couldn't help but smile.
Come to think of it, this little thing was quite remarkable.
Even though it had been hungry all night, it hadn't broken in but waited on the roof for him all night.
This respect clearly meant it considered him a friend.
Otherwise, with its nose, how could it not have smelled the fish in the kitchen?
If it wanted to break in, it would have been an easy task.
Seeing the little beast eating with abandon, Lu Qing didn't disturb it and went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.
Although he had made breakfast for his master and others at the Halfway House, he hadn't eaten yet.
He set up a pot of porridge, added some minced meat, and let it simmer. Then, Lu Qing went to take a bath.
He had been brewing medicine for the past two days, sweating a lot, and the smoke and fire from the pharmacy had made him sticky and uncomfortable.
After his bath, Lu Qing came out refreshed and was surprised to see the little black beast still there after finishing its fish.
Instead of leaving immediately, it sat on the stool, leisurely licking its paws and washing its face.
As for the basin of fish on the ground, there was still quite a bit left.
Remarkable!
Lu Qing clicked his tongue in amazement.
It was the first time he had seen the little black beast leave fish.
Previously, whenever he fed it, it would always finish all the fish.
Even if it was too full, it would never leave any fish.
This time, he had given it twice as much fish as usual, and it finally couldn't finish it.
But this still surprised Lu Qing.
"Little one, when are you planning to leave? I'm about to wake Xiao Yan for breakfast."
Lu Qing knew that apart from him, the little black beast didn't seem to like being around others.
It would only come to eat fish at night when Xiao Yan was asleep.
But to his surprise, the little black beast acted as if it hadn't heard him.
It walked to a corner, jumped onto a cabinet, curled up, and fell asleep.
Lu Qing: ...
"I'm really going to wake Xiao Yan now?"
The little beast still didn't move.
Why was this little guy acting so strange today?
Lu Qing felt puzzled.
"... You can stay, but if Xiao Yan sees you and gets excited, you better not hurt her."
Lu Qing reminded it, then went to wake Xiao Yan.
After urging the sleepy little girl to wash her face and brush her teeth, Lu Qing brought out the porridge he had prepared.
Xiao Yan wasn't fully awake yet.
She sipped the porridge absentmindedly, her eyes unfocused and staring blankly ahead.
Gradually, her eyes began to focus, and they grew wider and wider.
"Brother, what is that?"
Xiao Yan pointed to the black figure on the cabinet and asked quickly.
"That?" Lu Qing looked up and saw the little beast still motionless. "That's the little black beast you always wanted to see but could never catch a glimpse of."
"This is the little beast?!"
At this, the little girl couldn't drink her porridge anymore.
She jumped off the stool and ran to the cabinet, looking up.
But she was too short and couldn't see the little black beast on top of the cabinet.
This made Xiao Yan anxious.
She thought for a moment, then ran back to the table to get a stool, intending to stand on it to see the little beast.
Seeing this, Lu Qing quickly stopped her.
"Don't disturb it. Be careful, it might scratch you."
The little black beast wasn't pleased with that.
It stood up, stretched lazily, then softly called out to Xiao Yan.
Xiao Yan immediately cheered up, "Brother, look, the little beast said it won't scratch me!"
Lu Qing: ...
He didn't hear that.
But he could feel the little beast's friendliness towards Xiao Yan.
Thinking it over, he decided not to stop Xiao Yan from interacting with it.
Over time, Lu Qing had learned that the little black beast was highly intelligent, almost like a human.
Since it was being friendly, it probably didn't mind Xiao Yan.
"Alright, you can make friends with it then." Lu Qing said.
He then turned to the little beast and said, "Little one, don't bully my sister."
The little black beast glanced at Lu Qing disdainfully, then jumped down from the cabinet, walked up to Xiao Yan, and rubbed its head against her hand.
Then it looked at Lu Qing provocatively.
Xiao Yan was overjoyed and shouted excitedly, "Brother, the little beast wants to be my friend!"
Lu Qing saw the little black beast's smug expression.
Alright, this little thing was clearly trying to show off.
But seeing the two little ones getting along made him feel relieved.
He relaxed and smiled at Xiao Yan, "Since that's the case, you must be a good friend to it. It's very powerful, so don't make it angry."
"Don't worry, brother, I won't!" Xiao Yan answered happily.
The little black beast looked satisfied upon hearing Lu Qing praise it.
This two-legged creature had good judgment, recognizing its strength.
"Little beast, little beast, can I touch you..."
From then on, it was time for the two little ones to bond.
Seeing them getting along, Lu Qing didn't interfere.
Noticing that Xiao Yan had almost finished her porridge, he cleaned up and went to the kitchen.
Just as he finished washing the dishes, Xiao Yan ran in excitedly.
"Brother, brother, let's give the little beast a name, shall we?"
Chapter 66
"Naming it?"
Lu Qing wiped his hands.
"Yes, the little beast is our friend now. All my friends have names. Like Big Girl, Second Girl, Little Tigerhead, they all have their own names!" Xiao Yan counted on her fingers seriously, "So the little beast should have its own name too."
"Isn't 'Little Beast' fine?"
"'Little Beast' doesn't sound good, and many animals are called 'Little Beast.' We need a special name." The little one shook her head.
Lu Qing wanted to say that names like Big Girl and Second Girl were also very common.
He thought for a moment and saw the Black Beast peeking into the kitchen from outside.
He asked, "Little one, do you also want a name?"
The Black Beast showed a thoughtful look in its eyes and then nodded.
"Brother, look, the little beast also wants its own name." Xiao Yan said happily.
"Since that's the case, let's give it a name."
Seeing that the Black Beast wanted a name, Lu Qing didn't refuse anymore.
But what name would be good?
Lu Qing thought for a while, and suddenly had an idea.
"How about 'Xiao Li'?"
"Xiao Li?" Xiao Yan tilted her head.
The Black Beast also looked puzzled.
Obviously, both little ones didn't understand the meaning of the name.
"Yes, the little beast looks a lot like an animal called a lynx, so we call it Xiao Li. Also, the character 'Li' belongs to the fire element. Look at its fur, doesn't it look like burning black flames?"
As Lu Qing explained, he took a piece of charcoal and wrote the character 'Li' on it.
After this period of learning, he had basically mastered the writing of the world's characters.
Xiao Yan might not have understood, but the Black Beast, hearing Lu Qing's explanation, felt the name 'Xiao Li' was very grand.
It stared at Lu Qing with shining eyes.
"Do you like this name?" Lu Qing saw its expression and understood immediately, "Then from now on, you will be called Xiao Li. As for the surname, you can choose to have it or not. If you want a surname, you can have ours and be called Lu Li or Lu Xiao Li."
"Great, little beast, you have a name now!" Xiao Yan was very happy, "You are Xiao Li, I am Xiao Yan, our names are very similar."
The Black Beast's eyes also sparkled with emotion.
With a name, the Black Beast's stay at the Lu family became even more natural.
It started playing around the house with Xiao Yan.
Of course, it was mainly Xiao Li teasing Xiao Yan. Otherwise, with its speed, even a hundred Xiao Yans wouldn't be able to catch it.
"By the way, Xiao Li, I have a question for you."
Seeing the Black Beast playing happily, Lu Qing suddenly remembered something.
Xiao Li stopped and looked at Lu Qing.
"Yesterday, was someone chasing you in the mountains, trying to catch you?"
Lu Qing recalled the conversation he overheard from the Wei family's guards last night.
They said their young master fell into the valley while chasing a strange black beast in the mountains.
He had suspected at the time that the beast might be Xiao Li, and now was the perfect opportunity to ask.
Xiao Li tilted its head and thought, then nodded.
"Were there six or seven people chasing you, one of them about my age?"
Xiao Li nodded again.
Lu Qing broke into a sweat. It really was that guy.
His expression turned serious. "Xiao Li, stay in the house for now, don't go outside. If someone comes, find a place to hide. Don't let anyone see you, understand?"
Xiao Li nodded.
It didn't like seeing others anyway.
Lu Qing turned to his sister and warned, "Xiao Yan, outside, you can't mention Xiao Li being at our house. Not even to your friends. Otherwise, Xiao Li might get caught and you won't see it again, understand?"
"Xiao Yan knows! I won't tell anyone about Xiao Li!" The little one answered seriously, her face tense at the thought of possibly never seeing Xiao Li again.
She had just become friends with Xiao Li and didn't want to lose it.
Seeing Xiao Yan's promise, Lu Qing relaxed a bit.
He trusted his sister's discretion. After all, she had never mentioned the family's silver to anyone, just as he had instructed.
It wasn't that Lu Qing was overly cautious.
Although Young Master Wei had fallen into the valley himself, it was still related to Xiao Li.
The young master had almost died. Even if he recovered, he would need many precious medicines to regain his health.
After such a disaster, who could say he wouldn't blame Xiao Li?
If he saw Xiao Li, he might insist on capturing it out of revenge.
Lu Qing remembered that guy's personality wasn't very good.
Although Xiao Li was a spiritual beast and comparable to the Internal Organs Realm in his assessment, Lu Qing didn't think it could outfight the Wei family's guards.
Human battle tactics were too diverse and cunning, not something a simple beast could understand.
Not to mention, the Wei family's chief steward was also a strong martial artist in the Internal Organs Realm.
Thinking about it, Xiao Li should hide for now and avoid the Wei family.
Lu Qing even wanted Xiao Li to hide deep in the mountains until the Wei family left.
But seeing Xiao Li stay under the eaves for a night for a fish, he knew it had already claimed the area as its territory.
Asking it to leave wouldn't be easy.
If it couldn't resist the temptation of fish and snuck back, the risk of exposure would be even greater.
Better to let it hide at home and wait out this period.
In the following days, Lu Qing learned that Xiao Li had no parents nearby.
It was the only Black Night Spirit Lynx in the mountains.
It didn't even know how it ended up in the mountains, only that it had lived there since it gained consciousness, but in another area.
It had only recently wandered to the mountains behind Jiuli Village.
Knowing this, Lu Qing was relieved. He didn't have to worry about two mature Black Night Spirit Lynxes showing up to seek justice.
Thus, Xiao Li officially moved into Lu Qing's house.
Since Young Master Wei's condition had stabilized, Lu Qing didn't need to stay at the Halfway House all the time.
His life returned to its previous rhythm.
Every morning, he greeted his master at the Halfway House, studied medicine in the morning, and had the rest of the time to himself.
He could fish, grow vegetables, and practice martial arts.
For Xiao Li, these days were undoubtedly happy.
It got the freshest fish Lu Qing caught every day, a treat beyond compare.
After eating, Xiao Yan would massage and scratch it.
This life was much more comfortable than its days in the mountains.
Xiao Li didn't want to leave, preferring to stay at home forever.
Days passed, and Lu Qing's worry about Xiao Li being discovered never came true.
Young Master Wei's condition improved visibly under the old doctor's care.
Finally, on the seventh day after Young Master Wei woke up, he could get out of bed and walk.
This meant he could withstand the journey and was ready to return to the Wei family.
Chapter 67
"Thank you, Old Doctor Chen, for your care these past days."
In the Halfway House, Young Master Wei, supported by his family's servants, slightly bowed to the old doctor in thanks.
"You don't need to be so formal, Young Master. Remember to rest well and take care of yourself after you go back," the old doctor advised.
"I will remember," Young Master Wei replied.
After expressing his gratitude, Young Master Wei was carefully helped into a palanquin by the servants. His wounds had not fully healed, and his body was still weak, making it necessary for him to avoid the wind. On the way back, he could only travel in a soft, windproof palanquin to prevent any illness from worsening.
Standing nearby, the chief steward of the Wei family nodded slightly as he observed this scene. Over these days, he noticed that after this brush with death, the young master had become more composed and less mischievous than before. In the past, it had been difficult to get him to thank a physician. Although this ordeal had nearly cost him his life, if it could lead to his change for the better, it might be a blessing in disguise.
Once the young master was settled in the palanquin, the chief steward stepped forward.
"Old Doctor Chen, it is entirely thanks to your miraculous skills that our young master has woken up and is recovering so well without any lasting ailments. For this, our entire Wei household is deeply grateful."
"Here, we have prepared some small gifts to express our thanks for your care of our young master these past days."
With that, the chief steward waved his hand, and two guards brought forth a large chest, while two others carried smaller chests and boxes. The chief steward took a small box from one of the guards and opened it, revealing rows of glittering gold ingots. Opening the large chest, a dazzling array of silver ingots was revealed.
"Old Doctor Chen, here we have ten thousand taels of silver and one thousand taels of gold. Please accept them."
The old doctor looked at the gold and silver in the chests, his expression calm. He sighed, "Your family is too generous. As a doctor, I was merely fulfilling my duty. I cannot accept such a heavy gift."
"Old Doctor Chen, you are too modest. Our young master is very important to us, especially to the lady of the house. Your treatment saved her life as well. These small tokens of gold and silver are just a fraction of our gratitude."
"Moreover, we have another gift for you that our lady specially prepared."
The chief steward then opened another box and took out a book.
"This is the 'Compendium of Materia Medica' that our lady specially ordered to be brought here for you."
"What? The 'Compendium of Materia Medica'?" The old doctor, who had been about to refuse again, was suddenly taken aback.
"Is it the one written by the legendary medical sage?"
"Yes, the very one that contains the life's work of the medical sage," the chief steward nodded with a smile.
At this, the old doctor's refusal caught in his throat. The 'Compendium of Materia Medica' was an irresistible lure for any devoted physician. He had long admired this book but had never had the chance to see it. Families who owned it treated it as a treasured heirloom, rarely showing it to outsiders. Now, hearing that the Wei family was giving it to him, his heart was in turmoil.
Seeing the old doctor's hesitation, the chief steward smiled warmly. "Old Doctor Chen, there's no need to be so concerned. This 'Compendium of Materia Medica' will only realize its true value in the hands of a kind-hearted doctor like you."
"Healing the sick and saving lives is the belief of all physicians. I'm sure the medical sage wrote this book hoping it would save countless lives and help doctors improve their skills."
"With your medical expertise, this book will help you advance further, which will benefit many patients."
Hearing this, Old Doctor Chen's mind cleared. He accepted the book with a smile, "You are right. It seems I was being too narrow-minded."
Lu Qing, standing nearby, watched the scene with admiration. The Wei family's chief steward was truly impressive. With just a few words, he had convinced his master to accept the gift.
Unexpectedly, after presenting the 'Compendium of Materia Medica', the chief steward turned his attention to Lu Qing.
"As for Young Master Lu and Miss Xiao Yan, our lady has also prepared a small gift for you."
Lu Qing was surprised, "We also have a gift?"
"Of course. I heard that when our young master was first brought here, Young Master Lu was in the pharmacy day and night, tirelessly preparing and decocting medicines. This kindness is something our Wei family cannot overlook."
The chief steward then opened another box.
"I have noticed that not only is Young Master Lu proficient in pharmacology, but he also has great talent in martial arts. At such a young age, he is already a Qi and Blood Realm martial artist. It will not be difficult for him to break through to the Tendons and Bones Realm and even the Internal Organs Realm in the future."
"With Old Doctor Chen's guidance in medicine, it is only a matter of time before Young Master Lu becomes a great physician. There is no need for us to interfere in that aspect."
"But in the martial arts path, talent alone is not enough. Resources for cultivation are also essential. Therefore, our lady has prepared two gifts for you."
"This book contains a secret technique for the Tendons and Bones Realm, and this bottle contains a pill called the Bone-Strengthening Pill, which is beneficial for martial artists at that realm."
"These are meant to provide a small help on your martial path."
The gifts for Lu Qing were a martial arts secret technique and a bottle of pills, both essential for someone at the Tendons and Bones Realm.
"Bone-Strengthening Pill?" Old Doctor Chen was slightly surprised. "Is it the one that can enhance the muscles and bones of a Tendons and Bones Realm martial artist by thirty percent?"
"Exactly. Most Tendons and Bones Realm martial artists, after reaching their peak, find their growth limits reached and can only seek breakthroughs within their internal organs. This Bone-Strengthening Pill can break this limit, allowing even those at their peak to further strengthen their muscles and bones by thirty percent."
Hearing this, Lu Qing realized the value of these gifts. The secret technique was already significant, but the Bone-Strengthening Pill was extraordinarily precious.
Feeling the weight of these gifts, Lu Qing looked to his master. Old Doctor Chen, though feeling the gifts were too valuable, thought it over. He had accepted the precious 'Compendium of Materia Medica,' so there was no need for further modesty.
He nodded to Lu Qing, "Since it is a kind gesture from the Wei family, you should accept it."
Lu Qing then took the box.
Seeing him accept the gifts, the chief steward smiled.
No one knew that these gifts were his suggestion to the lady of the house. During his stay at the Halfway House, he had noticed Lu Qing's exceptional martial talent. Though Lu Qing never trained in front of him, he could sense the young man's Qi and Blood power growing stronger daily.
This discovery, along with hearing from villagers about Lu Qing's rapid progress since becoming Old Doctor Chen's disciple, convinced him that Lu Qing's talent was extraordinary.
Realizing this, the chief steward decided to establish a good relationship with this rare martial prodigy. Thus, the Wei family's generous gifts were not only to thank Old Doctor Chen but also to build rapport with this master and disciple.
After presenting Lu Qing's gifts, the gifts for Xiao Yan were simpler—just some jewelry and clothing that young girls liked. Though not cheap, they were far less valuable than Lu Qing's gifts.
"Old Doctor Chen, Young Master Lu, we will now escort our young master back home. When you visit the county in the future, please be sure to come to our Wei residence so we can properly host you," the chief steward said, bowing.
"If we visit the county, we will certainly pay a visit. Have a safe journey back," Old Doctor Chen replied.
"Thank you for your kind words."
The chief steward bowed again to Old Doctor Chen and Lu Qing before turning to the guards. "Let's head back!"
At his command, the guards swiftly moved into action. The sturdy Tendons and Bones Realm guards lifted the palanquin gently and began descending the mountain path. Despite the uneven terrain, the palanquin remained steady, without any noticeable jolts.
As everyone started to descend, the chief steward, following behind, turned to bow once more to Old Doctor Chen and Lu Qing before finally making his way down the mountain.
Chapter 68
Lu Qing and Old Doctor Chen stood in front of the Halfway House, watching the Wei family's people slowly leave.
After a while, Lu Qing said, "Master, this chief steward of the Wei family is truly formidable."
Lu Qing genuinely admired this chief steward of the Wei family.
From his first encounter with the young master of the Wei family at the Grand Bazaar, Lu Qing had initially thought the Wei family to be an arrogant, domineering family that liked to throw their weight around.
Otherwise, how could their heir have such a personality?
But this chief steward of the Wei family had changed Lu Qing's impression significantly.
No wonder Mago said that the influence of the Wei family extended throughout the prefecture, reaching even the capital.
One could see it from the methods of this chief steward.
Not to mention the Wei family head who commanded such loyalty.
Perhaps, this was what truly defined an influential aristocratic family.
With such a person in charge, it was difficult for the Wei family not to develop rapidly.
"To hold the position of chief steward in an aristocratic family like the Wei family, one would naturally not be a simple person."
Old Doctor Chen also sighed.
Even he, having lived for most of his life, had rarely seen a person like the chief steward of the Wei family.
Upright and open, knowing that he was winning hearts, yet they still couldn't refuse.
"Master, what should we do with all this gold and silver?"
Back in the courtyard, Lu Qing looked at the piles of gold and silver and couldn't help but ask.
The Wei family's gift of ten thousand taels of silver and one thousand taels of gold was not all in cash.
Aside from a large chest of silver ingots and a small chest of gold ingots, the rest were converted into silver notes and gold notes, placed in another small box.
But even this large chest of gold and silver was enough to dazzle anyone.
It was only because Old Doctor Chen and Lu Qing were extraordinary people; otherwise, an ordinary person seeing these yellow and white objects would have pounced on them by now.
"First, carry them inside and put them away."
Old Doctor Chen also didn't know how to handle these things for the time being, so he and Lu Qing carried them into the house for storage.
Looking at the large and small chests casually placed in a corner of the storage room, Lu Qing thought to himself.
No one would ever guess that these two chests contained such a large amount of gold and silver.
After casually covering the chests with some miscellaneous items, Lu Qing walked out.
"A Qing, about that bottle of Tendon-Bone Strengthening Pills in your hand, I have something to tell you."
After stepping out of the storage room, Old Doctor Chen spoke with some seriousness.
Lu Qing immediately walked up to his master, listening respectfully.
"The Tendon-Bone Strengthening Pill is indeed a coveted pill for many martial artists at the Tendons and Bones Realm. It can break the limits of those in the Tendons and Bones Realm, expanding their foundation and potential."
"But the medicinal power of this pill is extremely overbearing. Even an ordinary strong person in the Tendons and Bones Realm may not be able to withstand its power."
"So even if you step into the Tendons and Bones Realm in the future, you must not be in a hurry to consume and refine this pill. At least wait until you have achieved minor success in the Tendons and Bones Realm before attempting to refine it."
"Otherwise, consuming it too early, and if you can't withstand its power, it could burn your bone marrow and blood Qi, leading to death."
Hearing that consuming and refining the Tendon-Bone Strengthening Pill could be so dangerous, Lu Qing's expression became very solemn: "Yes, Master, I will remember."
After cautioning him about this, Old Doctor Chen waved his hand, "Since you've remembered, you can go back now. You've been tired these days dealing with the young master of the Wei family. Go back and rest well. You don't need to come to help me these days."
"Huh?"
Lu Qing was first surprised, then quickly realized seeing the box in his master's hand.
Master had just obtained a precious scripture and wanted to retreat for focused study.
He didn't expose his master's little plan and respectfully said, "Yes, Master."
He also wanted to take some time to focus on his martial arts.
Recently, Lu Qing had been refining one Blood Replenishing and Qi-boosting Pill each day, rapidly increasing his Blood Qi power.
In the past two days, he had faintly felt that he was on the verge of a breakthrough.
Holding the gifts meant for himself and Xiao Yan, Lu Qing walked down the mountain.
Back home, he saw Xiao Yan and Xiao Li playing together.
Since Xiao Li came to their home, having such a playmate, Xiao Yan rarely went out.
She always wanted to play with Xiao Li.
Even the time spent playing with her friends in the village had decreased.
Lu Qing also didn't want her to linger in front of the Wei family's chief steward, lest she inadvertently reveal Xiao Li's existence.
So these days, when he went to the Halfway House, he left Xiao Yan at home.
Anyway, with Xiao Li there, and having instructed Xiao Li to protect Xiao Yan, he was reassured.
This creature was a Red Light Spirit Beast.
Unless they encountered an Internal Organs Realm expert, ordinary martial artists couldn't do anything to it.
"Brother, you're back!"
Seeing Lu Qing return, Xiao Yan, who was playing chess with Xiao Li, immediately called out.
Xiao Li also called out to him.
"Yes, I'm back."
Lu Qing put his things back in his room, then came out and saw the chessboard on the table, asking, "Who won more games today?"
The chessboard was made by Lu Qing from a wooden board, carved with a knife.
The chess pieces were also simple, just a box of short wooden sticks and a box of small stones.
As for the chess they played, it was the game of Go-Moku he had taught them.
He had taught them chess because one day, while Lu Qing was studying medical books, these two little ones were playing and making noise in the house, making it impossible for him to concentrate.
Even if he temporarily quieted them, they would soon secretly play again.
To keep them quiet for longer, Lu Qing had an idea and taught them to play chess.
Anyway, Go-Moku wasn't difficult, and it could also exercise their thinking abilities.
As expected, the two little ones were instantly fascinated by this novel game, even Xiao Li was no exception.
These days, whenever they had time, the two little ones would start a chess match.
As for winning or losing, it was often hard to decide.
Sure enough, it was the same this time.
Xiao Yan said happily, "I won more games today. I won seven games, and Xiao Li only won six!"
Then Lu Qing saw Xiao Li place a small stone on the chessboard with its paw, causing Xiao Yan to immediately look dejected: "Now it's tied, Xiao Li also won seven games."
This time, Xiao Li was the happy one, its ears moved back, eyes smiling, and tail held high.
Lu Qing: …
These two little ones played like this so much recently, often making his head spin, and it was no wonder.
With their intelligence, they were indeed extraordinary companions.
He decided not to mind them and went to the bamboo forest at the back mountain to practice.
In the following days, because he didn't need to go to the Halfway House, Lu Qing didn't go out, focusing on practice in the back mountain.
Feeling he was close to a breakthrough, he even paused his Four Directions Blade practice to concentrate on Health Nourishing Boxing and refining Blood Qi.
Finally, after consuming a few more Blood Replenishing and Qi-boosting Pills, he sensed the breakthrough opportunity one morning.
Chapter 69
In the bamboo forest of the back mountain, Lu Qing was practicing the first nine forms of Health Nourishing Boxing.
After more than a month of training, his mastery of Health Nourishing Boxing had become second nature.
His movements, graceful and fluid, carried a unique rhythm and essence.
The vigorous energy exuding from him made it pleasing to the eye and soothing to the heart.
Even the old doctor Chen, if present, would surely praise Lu Qing's boxing.
Because Lu Qing had developed his unique understanding of the first nine forms, mastering them completely.
Focused and absorbed, Lu Qing practiced his boxing.
He concentrated deeply, sensing the flow of blood and qi within, searching for the breakthrough opportunity.
At this moment, the blood and qi within his body were several times more vigorous than when he first stepped into the Qi and Blood Realm.
With each move, the power hidden within surged, causing the surrounding air to swirl and fallen leaves to dance.
Suddenly, a flash of insight struck Lu Qing's mind, and he grasped the secret of the blood and qi flow.
Instantly, his blood and qi connected seamlessly, forming a unified whole, circulating effortlessly.
Lu Qing shuddered, a wave of understanding rising from his heart.
"Blood and qi like a net, continuous and unbroken. I've finally reached the minor success of the Qi and Blood Realm."
Indeed, Lu Qing had achieved the minor success in the Qi and Blood Realm.
The three stages of the Postnatal Realm: Qi and Blood Realm, Tendons and Bones Realm, and Internal Organs Realm.
Each stage divided into four levels: entry, minor success, major success, and perfection.
The hallmark of minor success in the Qi and Blood Realm was the seamless connection of blood and qi, forming an invisible net, continuous and unbroken.
With this connection, power could be unleashed at will, no longer needing to gather blood and qi before exerting strength.
Both endurance and explosive power were greatly enhanced.
For Lu Qing, the biggest obstacle to reaching minor success was not understanding the continuous and unbroken flow of blood and qi.
It was the total amount of blood and qi power within his body.
With his unique abilities, he never lacked comprehension in boxing techniques.
But the insufficient blood and qi power within his body had always limited his breakthroughs.
Now, with the daily refinement of a Blood Replenishing and Qi-boosting Pill, his blood and qi power had finally reached a critical point.
Breaking through to minor success was just a matter of course.
In a flash, Lu Qing moved to a large old bamboo, gripping the battle blade inserted nearby.
The blade hummed as it was drawn, a cold light flashing.
Returning to his original position, Lu Qing exuded a murderous aura, beginning to practice the Four Directions Blade.
Blade light shimmered, like moonlight flowing. With each move, he coordinated with the explosion of blood and qi, speeding up his strikes.
The blade sliced through the air, causing strong winds to rise, scattering dry bamboo leaves.
After completing the nine forms of the Four Directions Blade, Lu Qing stood still, feeling the residual strength within, a smile spreading across his face.
This minor success in the Qi and Blood Realm did not disappoint him.
Before the breakthrough, he could only execute up to the seventh form of the Four Directions Blade, his blood and qi power insufficient to continue.
But now, after completing a full round, he still had strength left, able to launch another round if needed.
Nine forms in a row, each strike executed with full power, continuous and unbroken.
According to the records of the Four Directions Blade, he had achieved minor success in this blade technique.
Sheathing the blade, Lu Qing prepared to go home.
Having achieved breakthroughs in two techniques, he was in an excellent mood.
He decided to celebrate with a good meal.
As he walked back, Lu Qing thought about his next training plan.
In martial arts realms, he had now reached minor success in the Qi and Blood Realm. With continuous enhancement of his blood and qi, achieving major success or even perfection wasn't far off.
However, he was running low on Blood Replenishing and Qi-boosting Pills, and it was time to ask his master to help refine another batch.
Though skilled in gathering and brewing herbs, he hadn't tried refining pills yet and had no experience.
Otherwise, he could have made them himself.
After all, he wasn't short of ginseng now.
When Xiao Li moved in, Lu Qing had asked about it.
He learned that in the mountains, Xiao Li had discovered more than one ginseng plant.
Some even matched the size of the two he had brought before.
Upon hearing this good news, Lu Qing didn't immediately send Xiao Li to gather the ginseng.
Instead, he let them continue growing in the mountains.
He planned to dig them up personally when needed.
After all, whenever Xiao Li dug up ginseng, they got slightly damaged, affecting their medicinal properties.
Moreover, he always wanted to see the actual growth environment of those herbs in the mountains.
Despite his thorough study of the Compendium of Materia Medica, book knowledge and real-life experience were different. To be a good doctor, one had to combine knowledge with practice.
Therefore, Lu Qing decided to seek his master's guidance on refining the Blood Replenishing and Qi-boosting Pills after his master finished studying the Qing Nang Medical Classic.
With those ginseng plants, Lu Qing's cultivation in the Qi and Blood Realm would face no obstacles.
In terms of martial arts techniques, he needed to find new ones to practice.
Having reached minor success in the Four Directions Blade, further progress required the body of the Tendons and Bones Realm.
Before reaching the Tendons and Bones Realm, he could no longer progress in this blade technique.
So, he needed to find one or two more martial arts techniques to practice.
"Tomorrow, I'll see if my master has suitable martial arts for me to train," Lu Qing thought.
He remembered his master mentioning that besides the three Tendons and Bones Realm techniques he had shown, there were other ordinary Qi and Blood Realm techniques.
Since he had nothing better to do, Lu Qing didn't mind the lower level of those techniques. After all, he was still just in the Qi and Blood Realm.
Having made up his mind, Lu Qing quickened his pace.
To celebrate his breakthrough, he planned to go home and cook some meat for a good meal.
As he descended from the back mountain and approached his house, he suddenly heard a commotion, mixed with angry shouts, as if there was a dispute in front.
What happened?
Lu Qing paused, putting the wrapped battle blade through the back window of his house, then circled around to the front yard.
Arriving at the front, he saw a large group of people gathered, divided into two opposing sides.
On one side were the villagers of Jiuli Village.
Grandpa Zhang protected Xiao Yan behind him, while other villagers, like the young Wang Da'an, held farm tools, looking agitated.
Opposite them stood seven or eight burly men, leisurely waiting.
"Didn't you say that Lu Ming's debt was cleared? Why are you here again?"
Grandpa Zhang, shielding Xiao Yan, angrily shouted.
Chapter 70
The seven or eight burly men faced the indignant villagers of Jiuli Village without changing their expressions, looking quite leisurely.
It seemed they didn't regard these rural people at all.
Upon hearing Old Man Zhang's reprimand, a man with a large black mole on his face glared at him.
"I remember you, old man. Last time we came, it was you who begged for mercy, asking us to spare those two kids from the Lu family, right?"
"But, out of great kindness, we spared those two little brats, yet you lowly people dared to deceive us, the Black Wolf Gang!"
Old Man Zhang was stunned: "When did we ever deceive you?"
"Still denying it?" The mole-faced man sneered, "You said back then that all of the Lu family's fields and property had been sold to pay off Lu Ming and his wife's debts, right?"
"Yes, if not for that, would you ruthless ones have ever left?" Old Man Zhang said angrily.
"Still trying to argue!" The mole-faced man shouted loudly, "It was clearly agreed that all the money from selling the Lu family's property would be handed over without a cent left. But what happened? You dare to withhold part of it. Truly audacious!"
"We never withheld any money from you!"
Old Man Zhang was extremely angry.
Not only did they not withhold any money, but also out of fear that these villains might find it too little and not spare Lu Qing and his sister, every household had even pooled some money together to give them.
Now, hearing these people turn the tables and accuse them, Old Man Zhang was so angry that his lungs were about to explode.
"I think you just spent all the money and now want to come back and extort more!"
"Grandpa Zhang, why waste words with them? At worst, we fight them to the death! We can't let them take Xiao Yan away!"
Wang Da'an, his face flushed, shouted while holding a hoe.
This shout roused the other young villagers too, "Yes, fight them! We don't believe that so many of us can't take down a few of them!"
Seeing dozens of villagers waving their sticks and hoes, looking like they were about to charge, the so-called members of the Black Wolf Gang on the opposite side began to look a bit pale.
Even though they were strong and knew some martial arts, they couldn't say for sure they could withstand being mobbed by so many villagers.
Those with weaker mental fortitude were already panicking a little.
Even the mole-faced man, who had been shouting the loudest, was now having second thoughts.
Usually, he was used to running rampant, relying on the Black Wolf Gang's power. Wherever he went, no one dared to look him in the eye.
Unexpectedly, in this small Jiuli Village, this trick didn't work.
Seeing that a major conflict was inevitable, the leader of the Black Wolf Gang, who had remained silent, finally spoke in a slow, gloomy tone: "Old man, you say all the money from selling the Lu family's property was handed over, but can you answer a few questions for me?"
"Ask!"
Old Man Zhang also didn't want everyone to really clash with the other side.
The Black Wolf Gang had a notorious reputation. Even if they managed to drive them away this time, there was no guarantee they wouldn't come back with more people tomorrow.
They were just ordinary villagers. How could they truly fight against these ruthless villains?
"My question is simple. If you say all the money from selling the Lu family's property was handed over, then why do Lu Ming's two children still have so much money?"
"Recently, I saw with my own eyes that Lu Ming's eldest son was spending money like water at the Grand Bazaar, buying things left and right. His lavishness even made me envious."
"And the little girl behind you, isn't she wearing new clothes? How do you explain that?"
"Well..." Old Man Zhang was speechless at first, then quickly responded, "That's the money given to Lu Qing by his master."
"Do you think I'm an idiot?" The gloomy-eyed man's face turned cold immediately, "I've only ever heard of disciples giving money to their masters, never the other way around. I think that money is what you withheld back then and gave to these two little brats!"
"You're talking nonsense! There's no such thing!"
However, the gloomy-eyed man didn't want to waste any more words with Old Man Zhang and the others.
He directly gave an order: "Old Qi, go and grab that little girl, then find the other brat!"
"Yes, Fifth Brother!"
The mole-faced man stepped forward and walked towards them.
"What are you doing?!"
Old Man Zhang quickly protected Xiao Yan and retreated. Wang Da'an shouted loudly, holding his hoe.
"What are we doing?" The mole-faced man sneered, "Lu Ming and his wife haven't finished paying their debt to us. Since these two brats still have money, they have to hand it all over!"
"If they don't have money, this little girl looks pretty good. Selling her to a trafficker should fetch a decent price, enough to cover part of her parents' debt!"
"You dare!"
Wang Da'an's eyes widened, the hoe in his hand pointed straight at the mole-faced man.
"You'd better think carefully," the gloomy-eyed man said coldly, "If you don't hand over the little girl, do you really think the Black Wolf Gang is easy to deal with?"
"Don't blame me for not warning you. No one has ever messed with the Black Wolf Gang and walked away unscathed. Whoever dares to stop us will have their family destroyed!"
These words sent a shiver through the villagers of Jiuli Village.
Han Lao Wu and his gang were notorious in the area.
Relying on their membership in the Black Wolf Gang, they were ruthless and inhumane in their actions.
No one doubted his threat.
Because in the nearby villages, some had indeed suffered such fates for offending him, ending up with their families destroyed and scattered.
Seeing the villagers were scared by his words, the mole-faced man grinned grimly.
He stepped forward, and this time the villagers didn't dare to block him.
Only Wang Da'an stood his ground, refusing to budge.
"Damn it, do you really think I'll tolerate this?!"
The mole-faced man suddenly grabbed the hoe from Wang Da'an's hand, stepped forward, got close to Wang Da'an, raised his arm, and spread his fingers, ready to slap his face.
This slap carried all the strength of the mole-faced man. Wang Da'an, not knowing martial arts, didn't know how to dodge.
If this slap landed, his face would be bruised, his teeth broken, and half his face would be ruined.
As the slap was about to land on Wang Da'an's face, some villagers couldn't help but close their eyes.
The next moment, the mole-faced man's arm was caught by another hand.
"This brother seems to have quite a temper."
At the same time, a voice sounded.
"Brother!" Xiao Yan immediately shouted.
"A Qing?!!"
When the villagers saw the person clearly, they couldn't help but exclaim.