Orion inspected the fourth-grade elixir refined by Yao Qianming and nodded in approval. "Impressive. Even without consciousness, Qianming's instincts produce top-quality results," he mused. Despite the lack of independent thought, the end product remained effective, only slightly slower in preparation than before.
With one success secured, Emperor Qingyun turned his attention to the elders of Yao Wang Valley. Panic filled the air as the elders realized their fate.
"Please, spare me!"
"I'll do anything you say—just don't turn me into a puppet!"
"Have mercy!" they cried, but Orion's expression remained cold, unmoved by their pleas.
Under Orion's command, Emperor Qingyun made each of the alchemists into sword slaves, rendering them completely obedient to his will.
"Lord," Qingyun said as he handed Orion a jade slip. "This contains the mark of the Sword Master. Whoever holds it controls the sword slaves. Their lives are yours to command with just a thought."
The moment Orion took the jade slip, he felt a strange connection to the sword slaves. A simple mental command made one of them step forward and turn in a circle.
"Good," Orion murmured, impressed by their flawless obedience. These sword slaves would follow any order, even marching willingly to their deaths.
Exhausted, Emperor Qingyun asked for rest, to which Orion nodded, grateful for his loyalty. "Take your time, Qingyun. You've done enough."
Once Qingyun left to recuperate, Orion turned to Yuxiang. "Take these sword slaves to Xiaoyu's secret stronghold," he ordered. "They'll refine elixirs from the resources you collect, which will help strengthen Xiaoyu." It was a sound plan. The slaves could work in secret, away from enemy eyes, efficiently producing the high-grade elixirs needed for his campaign.
"As you wish, my lord," Yuxiang bowed, but then hesitated. "What about their families?"
Orion's gaze grew cold. "Kill them."
Yuxiang faltered. "Even Yao Qianming's daughter, Yao Xi'er?"
Orion's eyes narrowed. "Of course—"
"Wait!" A voice interrupted. Jiang Qianning rushed toward them, out of breath, her face pale with urgency.
Orion frowned. "What makes you think you can interrupt me?"
Jiang Qianning knelt immediately, trembling under Orion's withering gaze. "My lord, forgive my boldness," she pleaded. "I simply wanted to suggest sparing Yao Xi'er. I'm often alone in the camp, and having another woman here would be... helpful. With time, I could teach her to serve you as well."
Orion raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback by Jiang Qianning's sudden proposal. Her reasoning, though self-serving, sparked a bit of interest. The idea of having Yao Xi'er around—and trained by Jiang Qianning—was tempting. He chuckled softly, considering the possibility.
"Very well," he decided. "Yao Xi'er's life will be spared, for now."
Jiang Qianning sighed in relief, grateful that her intervention had worked. Though her motivation stemmed from sympathy for Yao Xi'er's situation, another part of her felt practical. The strain of Orion's affections had been overwhelming as of late, and having someone to share that burden might offer her some reprieve.