Part 1: The Angry Arrival
Chief Huáng Láng stormed into the headmaster's office, his presence like a thunderclap shaking the very walls. His trusted examiner, Lǐ Shàn Qí, followed closely behind, his face pale but determined. The tension between the two was palpable, with Huáng Láng practically radiating fury.
"Xuě Jīn Mán!" he barked, his deep voice echoing through the room. "Where are you hiding? Show yourself!"
The headmaster emerged calmly from behind his ornate desk, his expression a practiced blend of politeness and authority. He clasped his hands behind his back and offered a small, measured bow.
"Chief Huáng Láng," Xuě Jīn Mán greeted, his tone even. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this… energetic visit?"
"Don't play coy with me!" Huáng Láng snapped, slamming his hand down on the desk. "Who dares question the integrity of my scoring pillar or the competence of Lǐ Shàn Qí?"
Xuě Jīn Mán raised an eyebrow, unfazed by the outburst. "Chief, perhaps you misunderstand. No one questions your esteemed guild's tools or your examiner's abilities."
"Then why," Huáng Láng growled, his fists clenching, "are there rumors spreading throughout the city about deceit and false scores? My guild's reputation is at stake!"
Xuě Jīn Mán sighed inwardly. This confrontation was inevitable, and Xuě Shā had warned him to handle it delicately. Huáng Láng's fiery temper was as legendary as his skill as a beastmaster.
"Chief," Xuě Jīn Mán said with a calm smile, "let me assure you that this matter is under control. However, I understand your concerns. Allow me to offer you some clarity—after all, we are both men of reason."
Huáng Láng's narrowed eyes betrayed his skepticism, but he gestured for the headmaster to continue.
"First," Xuě Jīn Mán began, "I recommend that Lǐ Shàn Qí take a moment to tour our school grounds. Our facilities are second to none, and I believe he will find the experience both enlightening and pleasant."
The examiner hesitated, glancing between the two men. "But, Chief—"
"Go," Huáng Láng ordered with a dismissive wave. "I'll handle this myself."
Xuě Jīn Mán gestured for Xuě Jīnyú, a senior faculty member, to enter the room. She bowed politely before addressing Lǐ Shàn Qí.
"This way, Examiner," she said, her voice warm and welcoming. "You'll find our facilities most impressive."
Lǐ Shàn Qí cast a reluctant glance at Huáng Láng, who gave him a firm nod. With no further protest, the examiner followed Xuě Jīnyú out of the office, leaving Huáng Láng and Xuě Jīn Mán alone.
The chief turned back to the headmaster, his gaze sharp. "Now, Jīn Mán. No more distractions. I want answers. What is going on with this Xiǎo Hǎiyáng boy and his beasts? And don't even think about feeding me half-truths."
Xuě Jīn Mán met the chief's gaze evenly, his calm demeanor unwavering. "Chief Huáng Láng, your concerns are valid, and I will address them. However, I must ask for your patience and discretion. This matter involves not just our school but the Xuě family itself. It requires careful handling."
Huáng Láng crossed his arms, his expression hardening. "If you're trying to stall for time, it won't work. Either tell me the truth, or I'll take my questions straight to the marquis."
"An excellent idea," Xuě Jīn Mán said smoothly, stepping past the chief and gesturing toward the door. "In fact, I believe the marquis would like to speak with you personally. Shall we?"
Huáng Láng blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected suggestion. "Xuě Shā wants to see me?"
"Indeed," Xuě Jīn Mán replied. "This matter has grown beyond what can be resolved with mere words. The marquis has already made arrangements for your concerns to be addressed. Please, follow me."
Though suspicious, Huáng Láng nodded curtly and followed the headmaster out of the office. As they walked through the quiet halls of the school, the chief's mind raced with questions.
Who exactly was this boy, Xiǎo Hǎiyáng? And why would the Xuě family go to such lengths to protect him?
Part 2: The Silent Arrangement
Xuě Jīn Mán led Chief Huáng Láng through the quiet corridors of the school. The chief's heavy steps echoed ominously, a stark contrast to the headmaster's calm and measured pace. Though his expression betrayed little, Huáng Láng's frustration simmered just below the surface.
"What is this about?" he demanded, his voice low but edged with irritation.
Xuě Jīn Mán offered a faint smile. "Patience, Chief. The marquis will explain everything. You'll have all your answers soon enough."
Though Huáng Láng grumbled under his breath, he followed in silence, his curiosity tempered by his mounting annoyance.
An Unexpected Destination
When they reached the Xuě Beast Hospital, Huáng Láng stopped in his tracks, his brow furrowing in confusion. Unlike the grand halls of the academy, the hospital was a modest, unassuming building nestled in a quiet corner of the campus.
"The beast hospital?" he asked, glancing at Xuě Jīn Mán. "What does this have to do with my guild's scoring pillar or that boy, Xiǎo Hǎiyáng?"
Xuě Jīn Mán didn't answer directly. "The marquis is waiting inside. He'll explain."
Huáng Láng's frown deepened, but he stepped forward nonetheless. The hospital doors creaked open, revealing a tranquil space lined with wooden cabinets filled with neatly labeled jars and vials. The faint scent of medicinal herbs and incense hung in the air, lending the space an almost sacred quality.
Xuě Jīn Mán gestured for Huáng Láng to follow as they moved deeper into the building.
"Why here of all places?" Huáng Láng muttered, his unease growing with each step.
"You'll understand soon," Xuě Jīn Mán replied cryptically.
As they entered a larger room at the back of the hospital, the faint creak of stairs drew their attention. Slowly, a figure descended from the second floor—a man dressed in a pristine white coat, his steps deliberate and measured.
Huáng Láng's eyes narrowed as recognition dawned. "Bái Yīzhēn…"
The older man, Doctor Bái, looked up, his face breaking into a wry smile. "Still as sharp as ever, I see."
"What are you doing here?" Huáng Láng asked, his tone both accusing and curious. "What does this hospital have to do with the marquis—or that boy?"
Doctor Bái chuckled softly, his lined face creasing with amusement. "This is my office. Regarding why I am joining you ? You'll see soon enough, old friend. For now, all I ask is that you trust me."
"Trust you?" Huáng Láng scoffed. "You've been hiding something from me, haven't you? Don't think I haven't noticed."
"Patience, Huáng Láng," Doctor Bái said, his tone soothing yet firm. "All will be revealed, but not before the marquis arrives."
Huáng Láng crossed his arms, his irritation mounting. But before he could press further, the sound of approaching footsteps silenced him.
Xuě Shā, the marquis of Snow Water City, entered the room with an air of authority that demanded instant respect. His expression was calm but unreadable, his sharp eyes taking in the scene with quiet intensity.
"Chief Huáng Láng," Xuě Shā greeted, inclining his head slightly. "Thank you for coming."
"Marquis Xuě" Huáng Láng greets Xuě Shā
He then talked to Doctor Bái with his tone cautious. "I hope you plan to shed some light on this mystery. My patience is wearing thin."
Xuě Shā said smoothly. "first, we must ensure this conversation remains private."
With a wave of his hand, the marquis began an incantation. A shimmering barrier formed around the room, its translucent surface rippling faintly as it settled into place.
"What's this?" Huáng Láng demanded, his voice rising.
"A precaution," Xuě Jīn Mán interjected. "This barrier ensures that nothing—neither sound nor magic—can leave this space without the marquis's permission."
Huáng Láng scowled but said nothing, though his unease was evident.
"That's not all," Xuě Shā added, his tone grave. "Before we proceed, we must ensure that no unauthorized magic or devices are present."
"What are you implying?" Huáng Láng snapped, his temper flaring.
"It's standard protocol," Doctor Bái said calmly. "You know as well as I do that secrets of this magnitude require absolute security."
Huáng Láng grumbled but allowed the magical scan to proceed. Xuě Jīn Mán murmured a series of spells, his hands weaving intricate patterns in the air. A faint glow enveloped the chief, briefly illuminating his belongings before fading away.
When the scan revealed nothing amiss, Xuě Shā nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Now we can begin."
To Huáng Láng's surprise, the conversation didn't begin with Hǎiyáng or his beasts. Instead, Xuě Shā and Xuě Jīn Mán shifted their focus entirely.
"Chief," Xuě Jīn Mán began, "how is your witch fox, Mò Xié?"
The unexpected question caught Huáng Láng off guard. "He's… fine," he replied hesitantly.
"And his level?" Xuě Jīn Mán added.
"Still the same as before," Huáng Láng said, his brow furrowing. "What does this have to do with anything?"
"And his skills?" Xuě Jīn Mán pressed.
Huáng Láng hesitated. "He's reliable, as always. But I fail to see how this is relevant."
The two men exchanged a glance but offered no immediate explanation. Instead, they continued their line of questioning, asking about Mò Xié's health, behavior, and recent activities. Though annoyed, Huáng Láng answered honestly, sensing that this was leading somewhere important.
Finally, Xuě Shā leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. "It's clear that Mò Xié is a remarkable beast," he said. "But even remarkable beasts have their limits."
"Pardon me. May I know what are you getting at, Marquis?" Huáng Láng asked, his patience wearing thin.
"Chief," Xuě Jīn Mán said quietly, "have you ever wondered what lies beyond those limits?"
Part 3: The Majestic Fox
Huáng Láng followed Xuě Shā and Xuě Jīn Mán deeper into the hospital. The scent of herbs grew stronger, and the quiet hum of magic in the air was palpable. The hospital seemed ordinary enough on the surface, but there was an undercurrent of something far more significant—something that made Huáng Láng's instincts tingle. "What are we doing here?" he asked, his voice low and cautious.
Doctor Bái, who had been walking slightly ahead, turned with a sly smile. "You'll see soon enough, my friend."
"I don't like this cryptic nonsense," Huáng Láng muttered, though he continued to follow without protest.
Finally, they entered a large, private room at the back of the hospital. The walls were lined with ancient tomes and scrolls, their leather bindings cracked and worn with age. A circular platform sat at the center of the room, etched with intricate runes that pulsed faintly with a soft golden light.
Xuě Shā gestured for everyone to gather around.
"Chief Huáng Láng," he said, his tone calm but firm. "What you're about to witness will answer your questions—and more."
Before Huáng Láng could respond, Xuě Jīn Mán stepped forward. "Chief, summon Mò Xié."
Huáng Láng blinked, surprised. "What does my fox have to do with any of this?"
"Just trust us," Doctor Bái said, his expression serious now.
Reluctantly, Huáng Láng activated his summoning incantation. A circle of light appeared on the ground, and moments later, Mò Xié, his witch fox, materialized. The silver-white beast stood tall, its crimson eyes sharp and calculating.
Mò Xié's gaze swept the room before landing on Hǎiyáng, who had just entered quietly alongside Doctor Bái.
The moment Mò Xié's eyes met Hǎiyáng's, something extraordinary happened.
The fox's entire body stiffened, and his fur bristled as if struck by an invisible force. Slowly, he lowered his head and bowed deeply, his silver fur glinting under the golden light of the runes.
The room fell silent.
"What… what is this?" Huáng Láng stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.
Xuě Jīn Mán turned to Huáng Láng, his voice steady. "Xiǎo Hǎiyáng is no ordinary tamer. His bond with beasts transcends the usual limits of training or magic. Even your fox, a witch fox of remarkable intelligence and pride, recognizes it."
Hǎiyáng stood still, his expression calm but his thoughts racing. He had known about his heritage since BǎoBǎo had revealed the truth—the descendant of the Thoth Lord, the Beast Master God, destined to command the Five Protectors. Yet, every time his lineage was hinted at, it felt as surreal as the first time he had heard it.
He glanced at Mò Xié, whose crimson eyes reflected an odd mix of reverence and regret. Even beasts like him—proud, independent, and loyal to another master—couldn't resist the pull of the ancient bond.
Suddenly, a voice echoed in his mind, soft but tinged with reverence. "Master Hǎiyáng, forgive me for this display. But I cannot help myself."
Hǎiyáng's eyes widened slightly. He replied telepathically, his tone measured. "Mò Xié, you don't have to bow like this. You're loyal to Huáng Láng. I respect that."
"Loyalty to my tamer cannot override my instincts," Mò Xié said, his crimson eyes glimmering faintly as he held his bow. "You are my true master—the one who commands all beasts. Even if I try to resist, the bond is stronger than I am."
Hǎiyáng let out a quiet sigh, unheard by those around him. "I understand. Just… don't make a scene. Chief Huáng Láng doesn't need to know."
"He suspects, but I will not reveal anything," Mò Xié assured him. "BǎoBǎo already warned me of the consequences should anyone learn the full truth."
Hǎiyáng glanced at the Doberman beast sitting silently in the shadows of the room, his unblinking eyes fixed on the scene. "He warned me too," Hǎiyáng thought. "And I'm grateful for it, even if it complicates things."
Huáng Láng broke the silence, his voice shaking. "You're telling me my fox—my Mò Xié—sees this boy as his master?"
Doctor Bái folded his arms, his expression thoughtful. "Not his master in the conventional sense. But Mò Xié recognizes something in the boy that you, Huáng Láng, cannot."
Huáng Láng's hands trembled slightly as he absorbed Doctor Bái's words. The proud and powerful witch fox he had tamed through sheer skill and effort now showed reverence to a mere boy—a fact he couldn't reconcile with his pride.
"But why?" he muttered, his voice quieter than before. "What makes him so special?"
Doctor Bái chuckled softly, his tone equal parts amused and sympathetic. "Huáng Láng, my friend, there are things in this world that even we cannot fully understand. Bonds between beasts and tamers can be influenced by factors beyond training or power. Sometimes, it's destiny."
Huáng Láng's jaw clenched. "Destiny doesn't answer my question."
Xuě Shā interjected, his calm voice cutting through the tension. "Chief, perhaps it's time to stop looking for an answer and simply accept what you've seen. Hǎiyáng is unlike any other tamer—not because of skill or lineage, but because he inspires loyalty and trust even from those who should have no reason to offer it. Even your own beast recognizes this."
Part 4: The Revelation and Resolution
The tension in the room was thick as Chief Huáng Láng stood with his arms crossed, his expression a mask of denial. "I don't care what Mò Xié does or says. I refuse to believe this boy is anything more than an ordinary tamer with a bit of luck."
Hǎiyáng glanced at the fox, his lips curling into a small smile. The boy's voice echoed telepathically in Mò Xié's mind. "Is your master always this stubborn?"
Mò Xié's crimson eyes glimmered with amusement. "Stubborn as a mountain, Master Hǎiyáng. But he's not as immovable as he pretends."
Hǎiyáng leaned casually against the wall, his tone in the telepathic exchange taking on a teasing edge. "Well then, how about a little test? Let's see how much he really knows about you."
Before the fox could respond, Hǎiyáng continued, his thoughts focused like a blade. "Tell me, Mò Xié—what's his favorite food that no one else knows? What's the hobby he hides even from his closest allies? And most importantly… what's the secret he fears most about his past?"
The fox hesitated briefly but then replied. "His favorite food is smoked lotus seeds. His secret hobby is carving miniatures of beasts he admires. And his greatest secret…" Mò Xié's mental voice dropped to a whisper. "His mother was a concubine of the former king. He has worked tirelessly to ensure no one associates his rise to power with that connection."
Hǎiyáng arched a brow slightly. "Noted."
The boy broke the link and turned back to Huáng Láng, his voice calm but deliberate. "Chief Huáng, does smoked lotus seeds sound familiar? Or perhaps your… sculpting? No? Then maybe the real question is about your lineage."
Huáng Láng's expression darkened immediately, his earlier confidence twisting into a dangerous scowl. "What are you getting at, boy?"
The room seemed to freeze. Huáng Láng's fists clenched at his sides, his face flushing with a mix of anger and fear. His voice dropped into a low growl. "Are you threatening me, you insolent brat?"
"I wouldn't dream of it," Hǎiyáng replied, unflinching. "But the fact remains—I know."
"Enough!" Huáng Láng's voice roared like thunder, his temper boiling over. He took a threatening step toward Hǎiyáng, his hand twitching as if he was ready to strike.
Xuě Shā immediately raised his voice, commanding authority. "Chief, control yourself! You're in the presence of students and peers. This behavior is beneath you."
Doctor Bái stepped in quickly, his tone sharp. "Huáng Láng, that's enough. He's still a boy! Are you really going to lose control like this?"
Huáng Láng stopped in his tracks, his breathing heavy as his rage simmered. "This boy dares to humiliate me," he spat, glaring at Hǎiyáng.
Doctor Bái's expression hardened. "And what would striking him achieve? Prove your strength? Or reveal your weakness?"
After a tense moment, Huáng Láng exhaled sharply and stepped back. His glare remained fixed on Hǎiyáng, but he spoke no further.
Hóng Hǎiyáng kept his composure, though inside he felt a mix of relief and tension.
Without another word, Huáng Láng raised his summoning medallion. "Mò Xié, return!"
The fox's form began to fade, but his voice reached Hǎiyáng one last time. "My evolution has stalled because I lack sufficient white meat in my diet. My master eats little of it, and I am left wanting. I hope this helps, Master Hǎiyáng."
As Mò Xié disappeared, Huáng Láng turned on his heel and stormed toward the door. "Headmaster Xuě Jīn Mán, Marquis Xuě Shā, Doctor Bái." He nodded stiffly. "Good day."
The chief exited the room, his heavy footsteps echoing behind him.
The Day Resumes
Doctor Bái sighed heavily, turning to the others with a wry smile. "Don't mind him. He's always been a bullheaded fool, but he'll come around. Give him time."
Xuě Jīn Mán nodded. "He'll think about it, even if he denies it now."
Xuě Shā added, "For someone as prideful as Huáng Láng, this encounter won't be forgotten. We've planted the seeds of understanding. Now, it's up to him."
Both Xuě Jīn Mán and Xuě Shā glanced at Hǎiyáng. The marquis spoke first. Hǎiyáng, you handled this with remarkable composure. Keep this level-headedness—it will serve you well."
Xuě Jīn Mán nodded in agreement. "You've done well. Remember, the school stands behind you. If you need support, we'll be here."
Hǎiyáng bowed slightly. "Thank you, Marquis. Headmaster."
With that, the two men left, their steps measured and calm.
Doctor Bái turned to Hǎiyáng, his expression lightening. "Now that the VIPs are gone, shall we get back to work? The hospital doesn't run itself."
Hǎiyáng glanced toward the windows, where a line of patients waited outside. "Looks like we've been closed long enough."
Doctor Bái clapped his hands, already heading toward the doors. "Let's not keep them waiting, then!"
Together, they opened the heavy wooden doors. A faint breeze swept through, carrying the chatter of waiting patients. Though the challenges ahead loomed large, for now, there was peace.
-----------------------------------End of Chapter 4---------------------------------