The two days of rigorous training in the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well had come to an end. Tang Hao, his face stern and weary, declared that they could not continue practicing the technique any further. He had already exploded half of his soul rings, and he was unwilling to risk losing more in case of an emergency.
"I've taught you everything I can for now," he said. "The rest is up to you."
Bei nodded, his expression a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Tang Hao. I'll make the most of it."
They sat on the ground together, Tang Hao cradling Tang San in his arms. Nearby, Dugu Bo had secluded himself, fully immersed in cultivation. Bei took a deep breath and said, "Now, it's my turn to fulfill my part of the deal."
Tang Hao's sharp gaze focused on Bei, curiosity and wariness were evident in his eyes. "I'm listening."
Bei's tone grew serious. "First, about your grandfather. You've actually met him in the past decade."
Tang Hao frowned. "Don't be ridiculous. I'd remember meeting my own grandfather."
Bei held his gaze. "That would be true if he looked and acted like before. But his mind is currently being contaminated by the Rakshasa God, and even his appearance has changed. He calls himself the Slaughter King now."
Tang Hao's face went pale. He leaned forward slightly, his voice a low murmur. "The Slaughter King? I… I stood next to him before entering the Hell Road."
Bei nodded solemnly. "Exactly. His current state is the result of the Rakshasa God's influence. His mind is lost, and his body has transformed."
Tang Hao's expression hardened. "Is there a way to save him?"
"Since a god is involved, only the power of another god could help him," Bei replied. "And even if you attempted to face him, you'd die. He's a rank 99 Demigod. Right now, all I can do is tell you the truth. I'm sorry I can't help him further."
Tang Hao's hands tightened around Tang San. His jaw clenched, but he said nothing, silently processing the revelation.
"However," Bei added, standing up, "I can help heal you. Follow me."
They walked to a secluded part of the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well, where a single herb grew in isolation. Originally, there were more herbs, but Bei had already picked them and saved them. The vibrant plant swayed gently, exuding a faint, mesmerizing glow. Bei gestured toward it.
"This is the Yearning Heartbroken Red," he said. "An exceptional treasure that chooses its master. Only someone in love with absolute, undivided devotion can pluck this Immortal Grass. When picking it, the person must keep their beloved in their heart with complete sincerity."
Tang Hao's eyes widened slightly.
Bei continued, "From the moment I saw you and your devotion to your wife, I knew this herb was meant for you. It's your sincerity that will determine if it accepts you."
Tang Hao stared at the herb, then at Bei, who stepped forward and took Tang San from his arms. "Go on," Bei said. "Give it a try. If it accepts you, consume it immediately and start cultivating. I'll watch over Tang San."
Tang Hao hesitated for a moment, then nodded. He approached the herb, his movements deliberate and reverent. Slowly, he reached out, keeping Ah Yin in his thoughts. The Yearning Heartbroken Red glowed brighter as his fingers brushed its petals, and with a gentle tug, it came free.
Sitting with Tang San in his lap, Bei watched Tang Hao consume the herb and begin to cultivate.
I honestly didn't want to give him such a precious herb, but a promise is a promise. Besides, I could never use it. 'Love' is just an obstacle in this world. Something that can be exploited and manipulated, just like I'm doing right now, Bei thought while watching Tang Hao.
A grin spread across Bei's face, he was already plotting for the future again. He played with Tang San, whose innocent smile contrasted sharply with the schemes in Bei's mind. It was a challenge to entertain the baby, with the mind of an adult or not, the brat seemed to get bored quite easily, Bei bet he was doing it on purpose. The baby's giggles filled the air.
Two hours passed. Tang Hao finally opened his eyes and stood up, his expression one of awe and relief. "My injuries… they're completely healed." He clenched his fists, sensing the newfound strength coursing through him. "I've advanced from rank 92 to rank 93. And I feel like I'm close to rank 94."
He turned to Bei, his gaze filled with gratitude. "Thank you. You've kept your word."
Bei nodded. "A promise is a promise. This is yours," he said handing Tang San back to him
Tang Hao gave a rare smile, patting Bei on the shoulder. "I made the right choice trusting you."
Later, Tang Hao went to look for Dugu Bo, eager for a sparring session. Meanwhile, Bei remained behind, holding Tang San. As Tang Hao walked away, Bei shouted after him, "Remember we're leaving today, you battle maniac!"
Once Tang Hao was out of sight, Bei looked down at Tang San, his tone with a hint of mockery.
"Your father left you again," he said, shaking his head. "Some things never change."
Tang San's response was a wide, innocent smile, his laughter echoing through the serene environment of the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well.