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Chapter 37: Elemental Jewel Stored Skills (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"What is known as Physical Jewel Consolidated Equipment refers to our Physical Jewels being able to form into the shape of a weapon, armor piece, or even other shapes. Once it has set into a shape, it will also have the characteristics or attributes of your Physical Jewel, which can thus form a very unique weapon for us. This is what I meant previously by the external assistance. For myself, my Silent Tracking Arrow can attack any enemy from any angle in a 500 metre radius from myself, and its speed is three times that of any normal arrow, and also an additional armor piercing effect. So long as I have enough Heavenly Energy to support it, I can keep reusing it. However, with my currently eighth level of Heavenly Energy, I can at most support the release of 12 arrows."
The Dragonstone Jade Silent Tracking Arrow changed back to its original shape of its Physical Jewel and returned to circling Shangguan Bing'er's wrist. At this moment, Zhou Weiqing had sucked in a breath of cold air. Although he had always known that Jewel Masters were extremely formidable, but he had not expected their strength to be of such extent. He was lucky that on that day, Shangguan Bing'er had not followed her impulses, otherwise ...
Shangguan Bing'er did not display pride after displaying her Silent Tracking Arrow, but instead seemed somewhat despondent, "Now you know the difference in power between a Power Jewel that has external assistance and one that does not. To carry out the Consolidation of Equipment for our Physical Jewel requires the purchase of corresponding Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. However, the cost of these Consolidating Equipment Scrolls are astronomical, furthermore, the success rate of Consolidating Equipment is very low. For a small country like our Heavenly Bow Empire, no one can support such an immense expense besides the Imperial Family, that's why the number of Jewel Masters in our country is so low, as most Jewel Masters are unable to complete external assistance to their Power Jewels. I choose to be an archer because under the circumstance of being unable to complete external assistance, archers are still able to make some extra use their Power Jewels."
As she said that, Shang Gong Bing drew her Purple Dawn Bow once more, but this time an ordinary feathered arrow appeared on the bowstring instead, and as the Purple Dawn Bow was drawn to a full crescent, the two King Tourmaline Elemental Jewels on her left hand flashed in a brilliant red light, integrating into the Purple Dawn Bow as well as the feathered arrow instantaneously. A clear buzzing sound rang out, and the arrow flew out trailing with red light, and immediately the Stars Tree 50 meters away was shot through.
"The Physical Jewel's boost to speed allows me to shoot arrows at a speed way above an ordinary archer, while the Wind Attribute Elemental Jewel can increase the speed and penetrative power of the released arrow. When both effects are added together, the might increases exponentially. As such, choosing to be an archer allows me to better use the abilities of the Physical and Elemental Jewels."
Zhou Weiqing nodded his head, saying: "What about the Elemental Jewel Stored Skills then?"
Shangguan Bing'er said: "If the Physical Jewel Consolidated Equipment gives us a weapon, then Elemental Jewel Stored Skills grants us great skills. Look at this."
Lifting her left hand, one of the King Tourmaline Jewels integrated into her palm quietly, Instantly, a thick green light jumped from her left hand, dancing around her fingertips. As she flicked her fingers, three sets of green wind blades – in the shape of crescent moon and having a diameter of about one yard each – floated before her. The next moment, the wind blades started to revolve around Zhou Weiqing and her. The very air itself seemed to be sliced apart, making a sharp sound that caused was hair raising for Zhou Weiqing to hear.
"This is the stored skill of my first Elemental Jewel, Wind Blades. It is a relatively close combat skill, with an attack range of 30 meters. Generally speaking, the Weapon from Physical Jewels and Skills of Elemental Jewels are able to complement each other well, balancing offense and defense, short and long ranges. This also maximises the power of Heavenly Jewel Masters. Although ordinary Physical or Elemental Jewel Masters can also Consolidate Equipments or Store Skills, but the same skills in their hands compared to in the hands of a Heavenly Jewel Master, is completely different in terms of strength. For example, the Wind Blades I use, if a Wind Elemental Master uses the exact same skill, he can at most generate one Wind Blade."
"Physical Jewel Consolidated Equipments require the purchase of the Consolidating Equipment Scrolls from Consolidating Equipment Masters, and the price is considered very exorbitant. However, the Storing of Skills for the Elemental Jewel is even more troublesome, and it requires the Elemental Jewel to Store the skills from Heavenly Beasts. Furthermore, one Elemental Jewel can only store one skill, but Heavenly Beasts have many different skills. Without even mentioning the difficulty in dealing with Heavenly Beasts, if you managed to Store a Skill from a Heavenly Beast, but it does not suit your own abilities, then you have wasted one Jewel's Skill, and that particular Elemental Jewel can be considered abandoned. Therefore, when attempting to Store Skills on their Elemental Jewels, all Jewel Masters are extremely careful, and they will generally spend an extremely high price to enter the Skill-Storing Palace, to at least guarantee they manage to get a useful skill."
By now, Zhou Weiqing finally understood how difficult it was to actually be a Heavenly Jewel Master. It was not just the difficulty in cultivation, but even the Consolidating Equipment Masters and Skill-Storing Palace, just listening to all that made him dizzy. However, Shangguan Bing'er's words at least made him understand one thing, that is, a Heavenly Jewel Master who has not Consolidated Equipment or Stored Skills, was a lot weaker.
Shangguan Bing'er looked at Zhou Weiqing's thoughtful and pensive-looking appearance, and felt somewhat gratified in her heart. Although in the heart she was still unable to accept the matters of that day, but all that she had now could be said to be given by the Heavenly Bow Empire, and as such she was absolutely loyal to the empire, and was certainly willing to see the Heavenly Bow Empire to gain another strong Heavenly Jewel Master. If not for this, how could she have let Zhou Weiqing off the hook that night. At this point in time, seeing his rare solemn and serious self, her heart also felt slightly better.
"Little Fatty Zhou, if I let you carry out Consolidate Equipment on your Physical Jewel, what would you prepare to Consolidate?" Shangguan Bing'er asked calmly.
Zhou Weiqing replied without hesitation: "Of course it would be armor, definitely the complete set including helmet. I must arm myself to the teeth, the best would be an invulnerable unbreakable armor. Wahaha!"
Shangguan Bing'er turned green instantly, and once again landed a kick on Zhou Weiqing ass, "Can you be a little distinguished? Do you fear death so much?"
Zhou Weiqing covered his ass, with a face as if he were suffering from much injustice, saying: "Humans who do not fear death will be condemned by heaven and earth. Our lifespan is only a few dozens years, I have not lived long enough!"
Shangguan Bing'er said coldly: "You better limit your daydreaming as soon as possible. Your idea is quite impossible. The volume of the Consolidated Equipment for each Physical Jewel is limited, you can at most Consolidate the volume of a long sword or a longbow, to actually Consolidate a complete set of armor, is nearly impossible."
Zhou Weiqing blinked and said, "You can't say it so absolutely like that. If for my first Physical Jewel I Consolidate the helmet, the second one a Heart-Protection Mirror*, I can eventually complete a whole set one day!"
*TL: 护心镜 – 'Heart-Protection Mirror' is basically a small piece of protective metal covering the heart area, usually slotted at a breastplate of armour for additional protection since the heart is one of the vital points.
"You ..." Shangguan Bing'er was angered til she was shaking all over, and looking at Zhou Weiqing's laughing and playful appearance, the resentment and anger over the past few days, coupled with the sense of injustice erupted in her heart, and beads of tears started falling from her tender face. She tightly bit her lower lip, forcing herself not to make any noise by crying out loud.
"Err..." Seeing that Shangguan Bing'er had started crying, Zhou Wei felt a stab of pain in his heart, and cautiously went to her side, "Don't cry okay? If you cry some more you won't be beautiful anymore."
Chapter 38: Elemental Jewel Stored Skills (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"Who wants you to care, get lost." Shangguan Bing'er said angrily, sobbing in between.
Zhou Weiqing scratched his head, "I'm wrong okay? I'll listen to you, I'll Consolidate any Equipment you ask me to. Even if you let me Consolidate into a pig, I will not oppose you!" At the same time as he said that, he lifted both hands to his ears, and imitated the appearance of pig ears flapping.
"PUFF*. You originally already are a pig, if not why are you called Little Fatty Zhou." Shangguan Bing'er was provoked into laughter by his pitiful acting again, and once again shot a kick his way. This time, Zhou Weiqing stood still and received it, although his face was contorted in exaggerated pain, but he did not move at all, giving an appearance that he was willing to accept being hit to accept punishment to be forgiven.
Shangguan Bing'er lifts her hand to wipe the tears from her face, giving him a quick glare. In her heart she was thinking, This damn Little Fatty Zhou is really my lifelong adversary? Why am I always unable to deal with him?
"You will do as I say and Consolidate whichever Equipment I tell you to, that's what you said. Also, same for your Elemental Jewel Stored Skills."
Zhou Weiqing quickly nodded his head repeatedly, he wasn't afraid of Shangguan Bing'er hitting or scolding him, but was terrified of her crying. As the saying goes, Beating is Affection, Scolding is Love, this rascal very naturally regarded those actions by Shangguan Bing'er as intimate actions. However when he saw her crying, Zhou Weiqing was at a loss. Even though on the surface he always had a laughing, happy face; in truth, he had a very guilty conscience from the events of that day.
Shangguan Bing'er saw that he was being honest, and her anger also diminished, "Hmph. Let's head back. You pack your things up, we will be leaving the army camp tomorrow early in the morning."
"Leaving the army camp? What are we going to do?" Zhou Weiqing asked curiously.
Shangguan Bing'er said: "You will know when the time comes. You must have the mental preparation, this time we will be leaving for at least two to three months. You will not need to participate in the recruit training."
Zhou Weiqing blinked, "Just you and me?"
Shangguan Bing'er stopped in her tracks, turning her head to glare angrily at him, "If you want to die you can continue speaking! If you dare to have any dirty thoughts, I will, I will…"
Zhou Weiqing immediately continued: "You will cry for me… I fear that the most…" As he spoke those words, he immediately activated his Alexandrite Cat's Eye's Wind Attribute and ran off at top speed.
Looking at his flustered escape, Shangguan Bing'er was provoked into laughter again, even unexpectedly playing along, shouting out to Zhou Weiqing: "Here comes the Silent Tracking Arrow!"
With a *PUTONG* sound, Zhou Weiqing fell down to the ground upon hearing that, directly falling right into the woods, looking so disconcerted and distressed that even Shangguan Bing'er had a scare. She did not know that earlier on this fellow had been attacked from behind by Difuya, and was especially sensitive now.
Only after Zhou Weiqing had fell hard on the ground then had he realised what had happened, and as Shangguan Bing'er's crafty yet beautiful laughter resounded out, a shrill, pitiful yell rang out in the Stars Forest, "Murdering of your husband…" Instantly, that delightful laughter stopped, followed by the increased volume of that pitiful yell of pain…
The next day, dawn.
Shangguan Bing'er had changed into a simple cotton shirt and skirt, shouldering her Purple Dawn Bow on her back as she left the army camp. Even the simple clothes were not able to cover her outstandingly moving beauty.
Just as she reached the exit of the army camp, she saw Zhou Weiqing, who was still dressed in his military uniform, lounging nearby the front exit. He was also shouldering a longbow on his back, as well as two quiver of arrows – the standard longbowman attire, down to even the archer's Wind Hat.
Seeing Shangguan Bing'er come out, Zhou Weiqing immediately stood at attention, giving a very proper salute, and shouted loudly, "Good Morning, Battalion Commander."
Shangguan Bing'er glared at him exasperatedly, "Didn't I tell you yesterday to wear ordinary clothes?"
Zhou Weiqing scratched his head sheepishly: "I do not have any ordinary clothes, I'm on left with this military uniform, I don't even have a spare set for changing." At the same time was saying, he shot a sly look at Shangguan Bing'er.
Shangguan Bing'er bit her lower lip, once again suppressing the urge to punch him, saying coldly: "Let's go then." As she said that, she had already started moving. Zhou Weiqing hurriedly Released his Alexandrite Cat's Eye Elemental Jewel, activating his Wind Attribute, and set off in pursuit. They two of them ran in tandem, and very soon they had left the vicinity of the military compound, heading in an eastward direction along the Stars Boulevard.
Shangguan Bing'er did not speak with Zhou Weiqing on the way, knowing that this was the best way to cope with this rascal. Although she held some hatred against Little Fatty Zhou, but after making the Three-Point Covenant with him, she no longer wanted to kill him. She told herself unceasing that all of this was for the sake of the Empire.
Indeed, Shangguan Bing'er's method was extremely effective, Zhou Weiqing followed beside Shangguan Bing'er, trying unceasingly to tease and tempt her into speaking, but no matter what he said, Shangguan Bing'er just ignored him, causing him to be so anxious that he was touching his ears and scratching his cheeks. If he said anything sensitive or untactful, then Shangguan Bing'er would just pick up her speed, since she had the additional boost of her agility Physical Jewels, she could instantaneously distance herself from him, causing Zhou Weiqing to chase her till he was panting heavily.
From dawn to noon, more than four hours, Shangguan Bing'er had barely said a sentence to Zhou Weiqing, and also had not stopped to rest. At this time, the sun was high above in the sky, and Zhou Weiqing was perspiring heavily. Of course, running for 4 hours was nothing big for him, but the problem was following Shangguan Bing'er's speed. At this time, the Heavenly Energy in his body was at the limit, when it was used up, his speed would drop, and the four energy whirlpools at the four Death Acupuncture Points would absorb energy from the environment, and after some recharging, he could make use of the Wind Attribute to accelerate once more; he endlessly duplicated this process of depletion of Heavenly Energy and then re-accelerating.
By now, Shangguan Bing'er was also very curious, all along she had reduced her speed to allow Zhou Weiqing to follow, after all he only had the Wind Elemental Attribute boost, and could not compare with her double boost of both Physical and Wind Elemental Jewels. However, she soon discovered that this fellow who had just awakened Heavenly Jewels, and whose Heavenly Energy should only be at the 4th Stage, seemed to have a resilience and stamina to his Heavenly Energy that way surpassed her judgement. This was especially so after the 2nd hour, when he started the strange movement of slowing and accelerating, causing her to be even more curious. The unique strength that the Immortal Deity Technique possessed in absorbing Heavenly Energy from the environment so easily was not something that other Heavenly Energy Cultivation Techniques possessed.
"Let's rest a while." Shangguan Bing'er came to a halt. Even at the sheer speed that the both of them were moving, after walking a whole morning they were still in the Stars Forest. If they wanted to exit this large forest, it would still take them the evening to do so even when maintaining that same speed.
Zhou Weiqing plopped his ass down and leaned on one of the Stars Trees at the side of the road, panting for breath in deep gulps, sweat soaking his entire body. However, he also discovered the marvelous ability of his Heavenly Energy – when his Heavenly Energy was depleted, even when he did not focus his attentions in stimulating them, the four opened Death Acupuncture Point's energy whirlpools would still spin at full strength to automatically absorb Heavenly Energy from the environment to recharge his body.
Chapter 39: Elemental Jewel Stored Skills (4)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Shangguan Bing'er sat at a big tree about ten metres away from Zhou, taking off her backpack, and retrieving her dry rations and water to eat.
Zhou Weiqing continued panting a while more, and he gradually caught his breath and his breathing grew uniform, he did not have any dry rations with him, and seeing Shangguan Bing'er eating and drinking, he couldn't help but swallow his saliva, as he edged closer to her.
"Battalion Commander, I also want some."
Shangguan Bing'er looked at that fellow's greedy eyes, gave a humph and continued ignoring him.
Zhou Weiqing said: "A General does not have hungry soldiers*, if I don't have anything to eat, then I will not continue walking." As he said that, he one sat down beside Shangguan Bing'er, although he did not bump into her, but just sitting together at the big tree, he could smell the subtle fragrance that she had, although his belly was still empty, but he still felt rather satisfied.
Shangguan Bing'er moved her body a little to keep a distance from him, continuing to eat slowly. She did not believe that Zhou Weiqing would not come and beg her when he got hungry. This rascal was like a crafty hooligan, if she did not deal with him properly, how would he listen to her later? She did not believe that Little Fatty Zhou would have any problems missing a meal or two.
Just as Shangguan Bing'er secretly thought that she had succeeded in her little scheme, Zhou Weiqing who was sitting beside her suddenly burst into motion, the next instant, his body was leapt up like a leopard, bounding deep into the woods.
"What are you doing?" Shangguan Bing'er was startled, standing up along with him.
"I'm going to look for something to eat." Zhou Weiqing throws down those words, before he disappeared into the forest.
Shangguan Bing'er was stunned momentarily, before keeping her dry rations to pursue Zhou Weiqing into the forest. The reason she followed him was because she was afraid that this rascal would not keep his promise and run away instead. Furthermore, she was also rather curious how Zhou Weiqing would go about looking for something to eat.
After these few days of contact with him, the more she grew to believe that Little Fatty Zhou was of humble birth. Although there weren't many good people amongst the nobles, but it was unlikely for there to be such a hateful little rogue like him right?
Shangguan Bing'er activated both her Physical and Elemental Jewels, going forth at a higher speed than Zhou Weiqing. Although she was not as familiar with the Stars Forest as Zhou Weiqing, but relying on her superior hearing and speed, she was still able to keep up with him easily.
Looking at Zhou Weiqing twisting and turning uncannily through the forest, extremely agile; what was the most unusual was that the green light only shone from him occasionally, but that alone gave Shangguan Bing'er quite a shock in her heart. After all, she was a pure agility Heavenly Jewel Master, and was definitely well-researched regarding movement styles. From Zhou Weiqing's movements, she clearly found that he was only using his Wind Attribute Heavenly Energy only when he need it most – on those occasions when he needed to jump up high, or just when he needed a quick speed boost, mostly used to surmount any difficult obstructions in his way. In doing so, not only did he manage to maintain high speeds, he could also conserve as much Heavenly Energy as possible. Shangguan Bing'er could also do this, but most importantly, how long had it been since Zhou Weiqing only awakened his Heavenly Energy? It was barely a few days, and he could already display such amazing control over his Wind Attribute Heavenly Energy! Shangguan Bing'er found that she was increasingly unable to see through this fellow anymore.
After Zhou Weiqing had advanced approximately several hundred meters through the woods, he suddenly jumped upwards with a huge leap, grabbing a branch to propel himself forward, and in the next instant, he had firmly landed on top of a thick branch, his right foot hooked steadily into the branch, while his left foot trod steadily on the branch, and in completing those movements, he slung off the longbow from his back and in a swift motion, nocked an arrow and drew the bow to a full crescent. The arrowtip moved in a minute motion as he constantly adjusted his aim.
What experienced and adept archery. Shangguan Bing'er thought, rather startled in her heart. As a formidable Heavenly Jewel Master Archer herself, she was extremely familiar in the ways of archery, and she could easily distinguish clearly that Zhou Weiqing had not made use of his Heavenly Jewels during that previous movements. Such experience and skill in nocking the arrow and drawing his bow along with his familiarity with the environment, just those points alone meant he was already an outstanding archer. Even if he were not a Heavenly Jewel Master, just based on those skills, he would be able to make his mark in Archery Battalion.
At the same time, Zhou Weiqing's eyes flashed with a bright light, and with a whizz, he released the arrow which flew out light a bolt of lightning, flying towards the depths of the jungle.
However, at the same moment, Shangguan Bing'er's both hands blurred in movement, a green light shot out from her Purple Dawn Bow, though it was shot out later, but it quickly reached Zhou Weiqing arrow instantaneously and struck it, causing it to lose its course, and with two light thudding sounds, both arrows embedded into a large tree in the distance.
Zhou Weiqing almost subconsciously swivelled his body around the tree, his whole body slid down the Stars Tree, and in doing so making sure his body being completely covered by tree trunk.
"You still fear death so much." Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly.
On hearing it was Shangguan Bing'er, Zhou Weiqing poked his head back up and said with a grin: "Fearing death is basic human nature, what if it had been an enemy? My dear beautiful Battalion Commander, you should praise me instead for my resourcefulness right! Having such a subordinate like me, don't you feel proud?"
Shangguan Bing'er said with a humph, "That little rabbit is so cute, yet you wanted to kill it. With me around, you shall not take an innocent life."
Zhou Wei said with a pitiful face: "Beautiful Battalion Commander, how can I live like that! You don't give me any dry rations to eat, and when I hunt for food to eat, you also prevent me from doing so, where's the justice in that!"
Shangguan Bing'er did not know why, but looking at Zhou Weiqing's distressed appearance, her heart felt a pleasant satisfaction, and her beautiful face revealed a self-satisfied smile as she said, "Didn't you say you have the ability to look for food? Feel free to do so, but under the premise of not taking lives."
Zhou Weiqing came back around from behind the tree, re-shouldering his longbow onto his back and gave a long sigh with a suffering face: "Looks like I will not have any meat to eat today. Beautiful Battalion Commander, I'm still in the stage of growing, to suffer from malnutrition, so pitiful!"
"Hmph! You're as strong as a bull, what malnutrition are you speaking of?" Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly. However, as soon as she finished saying those words, her face flushed red, after all, she had experienced first hand that Little Fatty Zhou's vigor and strength.
However, Shangguan Bing'er's words were also true, after Zhou Weiqing had Awakened his Heavenly Jewels, not only had his height grown, his entire person also seemed to be filled with vigor and energy, his muscles clearly defined under his military uniform, as if he had an inexhaustible reserve of strength. If his appearance were to be judged as a soldier, he definitely had the stature of an elite soldier, definitely more than comparable to any stout adults. Do not forget that he was still less than 14 years old.
Unfortunately for Zhou Weiqing, he had not seen her embarrassed blush, or he might have had a greater sense of self satisfaction. As he spoke to Shangguan Bing'er, he was also lowering his head head to the ground, as if looking for something. Both his hands were moving around the shrubbery with seeming experience, and after a short while time, his bosom was filled with several items like bamboo shoots, and he had also picked up several large Stars Trees leaves, before he finally straightened his back.
"Beautiful Battalion Commander, is it okay I eat these?" Zhou Weiqing said as he gave a solemn expression.
Chapter 40: Fei Li Empire Flying Hill City (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Shangguan Bing'er's beautiful eyes were immediately filled with wariness, her experience with this rascal telling her that whenever he acted solemn and proper, he definitely had something up his sleeve. "Eat all you want, if you eat to death then you get what you deserve!"
Unexpectedly, Zhou Weiqing did not argue. Instead, he found a relatively spacious spot; plucking the wild grass on the ground to clear a stretch of less than two square meters, before placing the leaves and bamboo shoots he had gathered onto the ground. He then returned to the forest, and after some time, he managed to find some dry deadwood and thin vines.
Shangguan Bing'er noticed that Zhou Weiqing's hands were very nimble, with his ten slender fingers, and in a few quick motions, the vines and deadwood branches had been formed into a simple rack, braced steadily into the ground. The huge thick leafs in his hands seemed to flutter up and down. She had not even managed to get a clear look at his actions before the leafs had been folded together into the shape of a small pot, which he then surrounded and tied up with four thin vines, before hanging it on the rack he had put up.
From start to completion, Zhou Weiqing had only used several minutes, his movements were adept, and it was obviously not the first time he had done this. After that, he started breaking apart the bamboo shoots above the small pot, and with a clear sound of falling liquid, the bamboo shoots were unexpectedly hollow in the centre, holding a clear liquid within. After breaking apart several of the shoots, the leaf-pot was filled with that liquid, and most mysteriously, not a single drop had leaked out.
Zhou Weiqing piled the surplus deadwoods leaf-pot, then rummaged into the small backpack he was carrying and retrieved flint from within. He sparked up a flame, which gradually grew larger, the burning deadwood making a crackling sound, and it was already heating up the leaf-pot.
Shangguan Bing'er subconsciously gathered closer to Zhou Weiqing as he was doing all of that, and couldn't help asking: "Won't the leafs be burnt and destroyed?"
In such a rare occasion that her voice was not ice cold, Zhou Weiqing rejoiced secretly in his heart as he heard it. "Of course not, because it contains water inside." His hands did not stop moving while he was speaking, as he retrieved a sharp small knife from within his bag, his left hand picking up one of the bamboo shoots that he had broken apart earlier, slicing off its outer layer, before throwing it into the pot layer by layer. After repeating this for a while, several bamboo shoot slices as thick as a baby's arm had been sliced into the pot, and at the same time, the water in leaf-pot had also started to boil; indeed a perfect timing.
Shangguan Bing'er had by now subconsciously squatted beside Zhou Weiqing, watching as he completed all of that, Her gaze had also gentled considerably. A man who could cook would generally find it easier to give women warm feelings. Furthermore, Shangguan Bing'er preferred 'light' food, and this bamboo shoot soup definitely held more attraction to her than a meal of meat.
Zhou Weiqing clapped his hands before keeping his knife, and said with a grin: "This bamboo is the unique local specialty in our Stars Forest, and it can only be found here; very few people actually know about it as it only grows in the shelter of the older Stars Trees, and it will absorb morning dew in its hollow middle, which is extremely sweet and tasty. I call it the Reveal Bamboo Shoots, and it is extremely delicious, especially when cooked in the dew from its own middle, it maintains its original taste best. It can be eaten after being boiled for a while to eat, and only adding a bit of salt is needed."
After all, he had once been thrown into the wild by his Admiral father for survival training, no matter jungle, desert or even mountain ranges, he had experienced survival training in all those areas. From the age of ten, he – who was known as a trash by others – had been living a life of suffering, thus looking for food in his most familiar Stars Forest was just too easy.
The bamboo shoots dew soup in the leaf-pot gurgled with air bubbles, and a light fragrance lingered in the air, the smell whetting the appetite of anyone who smelled it.
Zhou Weiqing stole a glance towards Shangguan Bing'er, just happening to catch the 15-year-old girl taking a gulp as she tried to swallow her saliva subtly. At first, he wanted to tease her a little, but then his heart was inexplicably filled with a warm feeling. Picking up two ladles that he had carved out earlier from the bamboo shoots covering, he gave one to Shangguan Bing'er, then took out some salt, scattering it into the bamboo shoots dew soup.
The bamboo shoots were very fresh and tender, and could be eaten after boiling for a little while in the dew. Zhou Weiqing gave Shangguan Bing'er an inviting hand signal, then impatiently scooped up a ladle of bamboo shoot dew soup, blowing a few breaths to cool it then bringing it straight into his mouth. He was after all both hungry and thirsty now.
Shangguan Bing'er lifted the ladle, and was just about to start eating, but her hand stopped suddenly in mid air, and she bit her lower lip with a complex look in her eyes as she glanced at Zhou Weiqing. Just a moment ago, she had refused to give him her dry rations to eat, how could she actually eat the food that he had prepared now, she had a very entangled feeling in her heart.
"Give me a piece of dry rations. This soup isn't sufficient to allay hunger! I'll trade the soup with you okay?" Zhou Weiqing looked at her and reached out with a piteous expression.
Shangguan Bing'er gawked at him a while, before taking off her backpack and taking out a piece of dry rations to give Zhou Weiqing. She suddenly felt that this rascal was not as bad as she thought.
The bamboo shoot dew soup was a pale-green colour, the pieces of bamboo shoots floating within like pieces of jade. The sweet fragrance was light, but did not disperse; even though they did not have any other condiments to add, the fresh and tender bamboo shoots were already extremely delicious, made even more so with the dew and leafs.
As soon as Shangguan Bing'er took her first mouthful of the bamboo shoots dew soup, she fell deep in love with it, the sweet soft delicate fragrance flowing from the tip of her tongue to the very ends, entering her stomach, and a warm feeling seeped through her whole body; the sweet aftertaste remaining in her mouth and nose, and such an amazing feeling was definitely much better than eating mere dry rations.
She even felt a tinge of regret for not allowing Zhou Weiqing hunt and kill the rabbit; perhaps, this fellow could similarly make an amazing delicacy.
Zhou Weiqing did not tease or provoke Shangguan Bing'er, instead sitting beside the leaf-pot, eating the dry rations together with the bamboo shoot dew soup is eating, his eyes somewhat dazed.
Shangguan Bing'er's appearance while eating was just too beautiful, especially the expression she revealed on her face when she took her first mouthful of the bamboo shoot dew soup; which made Zhou Weiqing's heart clutch in a sudden movement. In his eyes, Shangguan Bing'er's beautiful face was even tastier than the bamboo shoot dew soup.
Just like Shangguan Bing'er falling in love with the bamboo shoot dew soup he made, at that moment, he also deeply fell in love with her satisfied appearance. He gripped his fist, decides inside that he would do anything to pursue her, and make her his wife.
As he daydreamt of marrying Shangguan Bing'er, being able to hug her fragrant tender moving body to sleep every day, the smile on Zhou Weiqing's face immediately became lascivious. Luckily, the young beautiful woman in front of him had her attention focused on the bamboo shoot dew soup, and did not notice that rascal's dirty expression.
Chapter 41: Fei Li Empire Flying Hill City (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
After a short while, the entire pot of bamboo shoot dew soup had been polished off by the two of them, in fact Zhou Weiqing had only eaten only one-third of it, and the majority was eaten by Shangguan Bing'er. After finishing the pot, she even licked her lips and sticking out her lovable pink little tongue, as if not fully satisfied yet. She usually ate at the mess in the army camp, which never had such delicious food.
She looked at Zhou Weiqing somewhat abashedly, and happened to see him still chewing away at the dry rations. Instantly, this kind girl's heart was filled with regret and shame; she was thinking about how she had refused to give him her dry rations earlier, and instead finally eating his good food, and her beautiful face turned turned hot and flushed, as she hung her head in silence.
Zhou Weiqing asked in softly: "Is it delicious?"
"En." Shangguan Bing'er nodded slightly.
Zhou Weiqing smiled, and continued saying with an alluring voice: "Then in the future shall I always keep preparing it for you?"
Shangguan Bing'er nodded once more.
Zhou Weiqing's voice sounded out again, with a hint of bashfulness, "Then, since I'm such a handsome fellow who also excels in the kitchen, how about giving me the opportunity to pursue you?"
Because of the previous lines, Shangguan Bing'er almost nodded subconscious, "En…. Ah! No!"
Only then did Shangguan Bing'er realise she had been tricked and leapt up in response, but just as she was about to rebuking Zhou Weiqing angrily, she saw that this fellow had both his hands held up to his head, curled up on the ground, saying with a pitiable expression, "Even if it's not okay, you shouldn't hit me!"
Walking over to give him a light kick on his buttocks with her foot, Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly: "Who wants to hit you? Time to go."
They set off once again, and although Shangguan Bing'er still ignored Little Fatty Zhou, but after having the bamboo shoot dew soup, she wasn't able to put up her cold expression any longer.
"Battalion commander, where are we going to? At least let me have some idea." Zhou Weiqing asked curiously.
Shangguan Bing'er shot him a glance and said: " We are going to the Fei Li Empire's Flying Hill City."
Zhou Weiqing paused in surprise, he had not thought that Shangguan Bing'er would be bringing him to a place so far away, no wonder she said previously that they wouldn't return to the camp for months.
Fei Li Empire and Heavenly Bow Empire shared a border, and was to the Northeast of Heavenly Bow Empire. Fei Li Empire was one of the larger empires in the Boundless Continent, and was almost over a hundred times larger than Heavenly Bow Empire, which was a very small country.. Of the various empires in the Western Region of the Boundless Empire, only Bai Da Empire, which was separated from Heavenly Bow Empire by the Kalise Empire, was as strong as the Fei Li Empire.
As for the Flying Hill City which Shangguan Bing'er spoke of, Zhou Weiqing also knew of it. The Flying Hill City was strategically one of the most important cities of the southern border of Fei Li Empire, and in the entire Fei Li Empire, it was also in the top 5 largest cities, and was about ten times larger than Heavenly Bow City, and was extremely prosperous.
Heavenly Bow Empire and Fei Li Empire were on rather good terms, just like the Kalise Empire were closer to the Bai Da Empire. Besides Heavenly Bow and Kalise, there were several other smaller countries close to Bai Da and Fei Li Empires, which separated the two large countries. If not for that, perhaps both of these large empires who had a very disharmonious relation might have already exploded into major war.
"We're going to Flying Hill City? That is so far! Although our walking speed is very fast, but at the rate we are going, it will take us at least ten days to reach! Isn't it better for us to take the horse carts from the relay stations? We can reach in around five days." Although their speed was fast, but they were still unable to compare with galloping horses, as there were special transportation horse carts and relay stations from Heavenly Bow City to Flying Hill City, which would be a lot faster than walking there.
Shangguan Bing'er shot him a stern look, saying: "Taking the horse carts are not free. The cost for one person is two gold coins already. By walking, we at most need to buy some dry rations, both of us added together will spend less than a gold coin."
Zhou Weiqing stared at her dumbfoundedly, "Battalion Commander, I never thought that you were a little miser. After all, you are one of the pillars of the state, the top genius of the younger generation, our only Heavenly Jewel Master, and also a Viscount of the Empire, your monthly salary should be about 80 to 100 gold coins right, why do you care about a mere 4 gold coins?"
Shangguan Bing'er said: "The best metal alloy has to be used on the knife edge*. As Heavenly Jewel Masters, we require a lot of money to cultivate, the Empire has given us so much to train us up, shouldn't we be more economical on things that aren't necessary? Furthermore, you just became a Heavenly Jewel Master, by walking the distance, you can better adapt to using your Heavenly Jewels."
*TL : Direct translation of 最好的合金都是用在刀刃上 – it means to allocate resources properly
Zhou Weiqing gave a big thumbs up, and shook it at Shangguan Bing'er. She asked questioningly: "What are you doing?"
Zhou Weiqing said with a smile: "Heh, marrying you will really be something happy."
Shangguan Bing'er's face turned cold once more, "You are asking for a beating again?"
Zhou Weiqing shifted the topic instantaneously, "Battalion Commander, I made a mistake. Anyway, what are we going to Flying Hill City for?"
Shangguan Bing'er couldn't help but want to punch him again, this rascal was surely quick to admit his mistakes, but never did change after that.
"We are going to try our luck. I also just got my second Heavenly Jewel, and your first one also does not have Consolidate Equipment or Stored Skills. Our Heavenly Bow Empire does not have any Consolidating Equipment Masters or Skill-Storing Palace, only the larger Empires' Big Cities have them. Flying Hill City is the closest one to us."
Listening to her words, Zhou Weiqing's spirit was greatly inspired, "Battalion Commander, what Skill should i Store? You wouldn't let me Consolidate a set of armour, what do you plan on letting me Consolidate then?"
Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly: "It's not as as easy as you think. Firstly, whether or not we can meet an appropriate Consolidated Equipment Scroll or a Heavenly Beast to Store Skills, even if we do find a good one, we may not have sufficient funds to get it. As such, I said earlier that we can only try our luck. To us Heavenly Jewel Masters, our Physical Jewel Consolidating Equipment and Elemental Jewels Storing Skills are really too important, only when we have completed these two huge steps can we completely wield our full strengths. However, you must remember our three-point covenant, without my permission, you must not reveal that you are a Heavenly Jewel Master, most particularly you must never let anyone see your Alexandrite Cat's Eye Elemental Jewel. Do you hear me?"
"Yes, I'll definitely listen to you!" Zhou Weiqing said immediately. At this time, his mood was really excited, putting aside the success of his own first Consolidated Equipment and Stored Skills, just experiencing all of this was extremely good. As he entered the Heavenly Jewel Master world step by step, the feeling was very wonderful, so much so that he didn't even feel as tired anymore while moving along.
Shangguan Bing'er looked at Zhou Weiqing whose Alexandrite Cat's Eye on his left hand was a cyan colour in the day as he made use of his Wind Attribute Heavenly Energy. She sighed lightly and said: "Your talent is extremely good, but, with that also comes great trouble. Your Elemental Jewel having five strong attributes, also means that every one of your Elemental Jewel needs to store five skills, the sheer price of that is something that even the empire cannot support. Furthermore, your Attribute also include the Darkness and Spatial attributes which are the Greater Attributes, as well as that Evil Attribute; all those may require Heavenly Beasts which are more difficult to find in order for you to Store Skills. Your future cultivation route will be a hundred times more difficult than any ordinary Heavenly Jewel Master."
"The reason that I do not want you to reveal your Alexandrite Cat's Eye to anyone else is because I'm afraid that when other Heavenly Jewel Masters see your talent, they will want to kill you off early. After all, the more talented the Heavenly Jewel Master, the higher the possibility for them to die at a young age. Unless ...���
Chapter 42: Fei Li Empire Flying Hill City (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As Shangguan Bing'er spoke up till here, she suddenly stopped and looked at Zhou Weiqing with a complicated look on her face. but what she saw was Zhou Weiqing with an intoxicated look on his face, causing her to say in irritation: "I am discussing important and serious things with you, what are you doing?"
Zhou Weiqing blinked, "Battalion Commander, you are so good to me, so caring towards me, I am really so moved! I have decided that no matter how difficult it is, I will train hard and become a formidable Heavenly Jewel Master, and I will then be able to protect you."
Shangguan Bing'er's heart trembled a little, then she shook her head, saying:"I do not care about you, I am doing this for the empire. I don't need your protection."
Zhou Weiqing said firmly: "Of course I must protect you, how can a husband not protect his wife?"
"You ..." Shangguan Bing'er was speechless with anger, and a foot flew out to knock that rascal back a few meters, and she angrily exclaimed: "No matter what serious matters we discuss, you can always bring it to some improper talk. You sure are a talented person!"
Zhou Weiqing rolled around on the ground before standing up, grinning away as he said: "A husband protecting his wife is a proper and serious matter right? Ahh! Don't take action, let's talk this through! Oh Right, you were saying a moment ago, unless what?"
Seeing that the Shangguan Bing'er was on the verge of hitting him again, he quickly hid behind a large tree at the roadside, poking his head out to ask.
Shangguan Bing'er paused a while, hesitation showing in her eyes, and she stopped moving and said to him: "Little Fatty Zhou, come out here."
Looking at Shangguan Bing'er's face which had become extremely serious, Zhou Weiqing was surprised momentarily, then walked out from behind the tree. Lifting his hand to shake it front of Shangguan Bing'er's face, he asked, "Battalion Commander, are you alright?"
Shangguan Bing'er said in a very serious tone: "Little Fatty Zhou, although you are sly, cunning and shameless, and your speech is very irritating, but no matter what you must remember that we come from the Heavenly Bow Empire. Other matters I can still tolerate you, but, if you ever violate the promise and betray the empire, I will personally kill you. No matter how formidable you become, I will still never let you off."
"Yes." Zhou Weiqing blinked and mused in his heart, Of course, do I need you to say this? The Heavenly Bow Empire's Emperor is my godfather, and my father is Admiral of the Empire. The notion flew across in his mind, before his train of thought instantaneously fell onto the improper word usage Shangguan Bing'er said. 'Other matters she can tolerate me doing', those words made this rascal immediately start daydreaming. Luckily, he also knew the the situation was serious now, and did not dare reveal anything on his face.
Seeing that he had replied relatively honestly, Shangguan Bing'er's face relaxed a little and she said: "Little Fatty Zhou, just now I said unless, was saying that unless you joined the Skill-Storing Palace."
"Join the Skill-Storing Palace?" Zhou Weiqing asked curiously.
Shangguan Bing'er nodded, said: "It is extremely difficult for ordinary Jewel Masters to join the Skill-Storing Palace, the very basis for joining the Skill-Storing Palace is to be a Heavenly Jewel Master, and they also have to go through a thorough inspection. Each Great Empire has its own Skill-Storing Palace, belonging to the Empire's Imperial family. The Heavenly Jewel Masters who join their Empire's Skill-Storing Palace will have the full support of their empire, no matter Physical Jewel Consolidating Equipment or Elemental Jewel Skill Storing, the expense will be fully paid by their empire. However, the Heavenly Jewel Master must take an oath giving full loyalty to their empire. Our own empire does not have the ability to create a Skill-Storing Palace, but the Fei Li Empire already has one, if they will try to recruit you in future, will you choose to join?"
As she asked in her last few words, Shangguan Bing'er was very anxious in her heart, but also concealing some killing intent. She only had a surface understanding of Zhou Weiqing, and did not fully know what his natural disposition was. She could only help but think, if this Little Fatty Zhou will betray his own Empire for his own benefit, then she would never be able to accommodate him, even if she did not kill him, she must destroy his Heavenly Jewels.
Zhou Weiqing said without any hesitation: "Of course I will join! Why shouldn't I join."
"You ..." a strong killing intent erupted instantly from Shangguan Bing'er, "You are shameless!"
Zhou Weiqing said in surprise: "Was I shameless? I'll join their Skill-Storing Palace first, then wait for my Heavenly Jewels to cultivate to the max before I return to our empire, doesn't that work? As long as my strength is strong enough that nobody can stop me, who cares which Empire's Skill-Storing Palace I join."
"PUFF." Shangguan Bing'er had no choice to laugh out despite being mad at that rascal, this Little Fatty Zhou really had a really uncommon outlook on everything, but, the killing intent in her heart also instantaneously vanished. "You are dreaming, did you think that they do not have any limitations in place? To join the Skill-Storing Palace, you have to be mind shackled, if you betray the Skill-Storing Palace or the Empire's Imperial family, you will die."
When Zhou Weiqing heard that, his face immediately turned sad: "So petty! However, what are mind shackles?"
In Shangguan Bing'er's hear, she was asking herself, If previously Zhou Weiqing had actually said he was willing to join Fei Li Empire's Skill-Storing Palace, could she really kill him off? She really could not answer herself, but despite his many faults, he was also her first man. Furthermore, although he was at times irritating, but these few days that she had spent with him, the number of times that she had been both angry or laughing, was a lot higher as compared to entire of the previous year.
"Let's talk as we walk on. Mind shackles is a high level skill for Darkness Alignment Heavenly Jewel Masters, under the cooperation of the other party, they are able to place a seal in their minds on a vow that the party has pledged, once the vow is violated, the mind shackles will erupt, and the person who broke the pledge will perish. It is a very overbearing skill."
They continue on their travels until dusk before they finally exited the Stars Forest. Before they left the forest, Zhou Weiqing made another pot of bamboo shoot dew soup for Shangguan Bing'er to drink, After all, they would not be able to drink it once they leave the Stars Forest. When Shangguan Bing'er was eating the delicious soup he made, she was a lot better to him, but he was still not allowed to hunt.
12 days later.
"Little Fatty Zhou, go look for something for us to eat." Shangguan Bing'er cleaned up a small area of brush and sat down.
Zhou Weiqing sighed, "My sad life! It's me again."
Shangguan Bing'er shot a look at him, saying, "You are my personal aide, serving your commanding officer, isn't that your job?"
Zhou Weiqing said helplessly: "Yes, I'm going now."
After the past 12 days of travel, Shangguan Bing'er was still as bright and beautiful as always, but Zhou Weiqing was showing the signs of travel fatigue with an ashen face. If when they had just left Heavenly Bow City he had thought that Shangguan Bing'er was a little stingy, he now believed firmly that this beautiful woman Battalion Commander would even be extending her hand out for money even when in her coffin*.
For 12 whole days, they had passed by several cities but detoured around them and always camped outdoors. They had not entered any city, let alone checking into a hotel. With the sky as their blanket, the earth as their bed, they did not spend a single cent throughout the journey. Even Shangguan Bing'er's dry rations, Zhou Weiqing estimated that they were fro the military mess.
What made Zhou Weiqing even more gloomy was that Shangguan Bing'er was actually extremely satisfied. She had always travelled like this all the time, and this time she actually had an additional accompanying chef. Although Little Fatty Zhou was always rather perverted, but he had an impressive ability to make use of local materials to create delicious food. Furthermore, Shangguan Bing'er had implemented her rule to speak with him as little as possible no matter what he said, which made him unable to display his tricks.
Chapter 43: Fei Li Empire Flying Hill City (4)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
After a while, Zhou Weiqing managed to scrounge up some sweet potatoes, and roasted them to eat with Shangguan Bing'er; in his hands even the simple roasted sweet potato also turned into a delicacy. After removing the slightly burnt skin, he scattered a bit of salt on the roasted sweet potato, and the flavor was unexpectedly extremely good.
What made Zhou Weiqing the saddest was that Shangguan Bing'er still did not let him hunt, throughout the whole 12 days of travelling he had been a vegetarian, he almost felt he was quickly becoming a sweet potato himself.
"Battalion Commander, didn't you say earlier that we will be reaching Flying Hill City in a few dozen miles? Why don't we have a good meal in the city?" Zhou Weiqing said discontentedly as he gnawed on his sweet potato.
Shangguan Bing'er shot a look at him, "Eating a meal in the city is free? One less meal there will save us one meal's cost."
Zhou Weiqing rolled his eyes and said, "Forget I said anything. I must make a lot of money in the future, otherwise I'll be starved to death by you."
"Humph." Shangguan Bing'er did not continue speaking, completely not allowing that rascal the opportunity to continue.
These past few days had actually been a good training for Zhou Weiqing, the unceasing use of his Wind Attribute Heavenly Energy allowed him to be a lot more familiar with the usage of Heavenly Energy, although he was still unable to wield it like Shangguan Bing'er who could use it like her own arm, but at least he no longer needed to take the time to gather it up before usage.
The Immortal Deity Technique was slowly starting to display its superiority, Zhou Weiqing's Heavenly Energy upper limits had increased very obviously; if we likened the maximum volume he had at the start to the size of a pigeon egg, it currently was quickly reaching the size of a chicken's egg. Hurrying along without stopping every day also caused the whirlpools at the 4 Death Acupuncture Points which he had broken through to continuously draw energy at full speed constantly, and that had a great effect on cultivating his total Heavenly Energy. However, it was still quite a distance from breaking through the next stage of the Immortal Deity Technique, to breakthrough the Yongquan Acupuncture Point.
Yongquan Acupuncture Point, being the last of the Death Acupuncture Points in the first level of the Immortal Deity Technique, it was definitely a lot more difficult to breakthrough, and the meridian route for it was also a lot more complex. Zhou Weiqing had tried one time, but the Heavenly Energy he had currently was unable to even reach the Yongquan Acupuncture Point, and it was clear that he needed to continue cultivating a lot more before he could.
After an hour, a huge city entered Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er's eyes.
The broad city walls that did not seem to have a boundary in their sight, and was about 40 meters tall. Any human standing before the city seemed to be as tiny as an ant in comparison. On top of the city there stood the Fei Li Empire's national symbol, a pair of Crossed Saintly Sword which was black with gold layers, on a flag which was fluttering in the breeze, showing the formidable empire's elegant demeanor.
Three drawbridges gave access to the 50 metre wide moat surrounding the Flying Hill City, connecting to the three giant arched city gates, with the name of the city carved in bold strong characters above the center city gate. The bustle of people entering and leaving the city was endless, and even though they had not entered the city yet, they could already sense the bustling and prosperous scene within.
It was clear that it was not Shangguan Bing'er's first time here, as she brought Zhou Weiqing through the central hanging bridge, walking with familiar ease into the depths of the city.
Within Flying Hill City was a picture of busy, heavy traffic, and Zhou Weiqing looked around unceasingly, feeling as though he could not take in all the sights. This was truly the sign of a great nation! Although the Heavenly Bow City was also quite prosperous, but compared with the Flying Hill City, it really fell short.
"Battalion Commander, where are we headed to?" Zhou Weiqing lowered his head to have a look at his own rather dirty Heavenly Bow Empire Attire, and said with a rather painstaking look on his face.
Shangguan Bing'er said: "We'll go to the Skill-Storing Palace first."
Zhou Weiqing brightened, "Elemental Jewel Skill Storing?"
Shangguan Bing'er shook her head, but did not explain further, instead hastening her steps towards the depths of the city. Although she was no longer rushing as they did in the wilderness, but she still moved rather rapidly, causing Zhou Weiqing to be unable to look around at the shops that lined the path, and he could only follow closely beside her.
The Flying Hill City was really too huge, and the both of them walked for almost an hour before Shangguan Bing'er finally slowed down, and as Zhou Weiqing followed her gaze to look ahead, he saw that not far off to the front there was a large building that seemed like a grand palace. Although he was not familiar with the Flying Hill City, he could tell that this should be the central business district of the City. The Palace in front was several tens of meters high, with 12 huge white columns supporting the building. Right in the center position, a huge golden Cross Saint Sword symbol stood out strikingly. Just with a quick look with the naked eye, it was rather difficult to judge exactly how big the palace was.
Behind the 12 great columns stood a large gate, and stationed in on both sides of the gate were eight soldiers who were all dressed in shining silver armor, their weapons were heavy swords, which were one and a half meter long and almost a foot thick thick! The heavy swords were rested on the ground, with their both hands grasping the sword hilt, as their ice-cold gazes kept a constant look out on every passing pedestrian. The 50 meters surrounding radius of the palace was void of any average pedestrian, as none dared approach it, clearly showing its status in the city.
After Shangguan Bing'er had paused for a while, she brought Zhou Weiqing and headed towards the palace building; obviously this was the Skill Storing Palace that she had mentioned earlier.
"Halt." The two outermost silver armored soldiers simultaneously shouted in a low tone, the two heavy swords lifted off the ground and blocking Shangguan Bing'er and Zhou Weiqing paths. From the col looks that were focused on them, Zhou Weiqing could feel a clear killing intent.
These soldiers were clearly elite infantry soldiers who had been forged in the fires of the battlefield, and their Heavenly Bow Empire did not have any such elite infantry soldiers, as the cost to build such an army was really too high. Yet, in the Fei Li Empire, they were actually used as palace guards!
Shangguan Bing'er stopped immediately, and lifted her right hand, with a bright flash of light, her two pale green pure Dragonstone Jade Physical Jewels appeared above her milky white wrists, sparkling brilliantly.
With 2 loud clangs, the two heavy swords fell back to the ground, and the silver soldiers' said respectful: "Welcome, Mid Level Heavenly Shi Master, please enter."
Shangguan Bing'er nodded, and turned to Zhou Weiqing: "Show your Physical Jewel."
"Oh." Zhou Weiqing gave the silver armor an envying look as he moved his Heavenly Energy while lifting his right hand, at the same time he was secretly thinking that the defense of the silver armor should be really good, if he could just wear it, arrows shot from a distance would probably not be able to penetrate it, such a good thing!
A pure Icy Jade Physical Jewel appeared around Zhou Weiqing's right wrist as he showed it to the silver armored soldiers; the gleam in the Physical Jewel seemed as a layer of icy fog was about to erupt from the Jewel.
"Low Level Heavenly Shi Master, please enter." Previously they had only set down their heavy swords, but after seeing the pure Physical Jewels on Zhou Weiqing's right wrist, which meant he was also a Heavenly Jewel Master, the two silver armored soldiers simultaneously took a step back, making a path for them to enter.
Chapter 44: Overlord Bow (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Shangguan Bing'er led Zhou Weiqing deeper into the Skill Storing Palace past the silver armored soldiers, as she walked she said to him: "For ordinary Jewel Masters who want to enter the Skill-Storing Palace, they need to have a Heavenly Jewel Master to recommend them, but as Heavenly Jewel Masters ourselves, we do not have such restraints. You must remember, if anybody wants to look at your proof of being a Heavenly Jewel Master, you only need to reveal your Physical Jewel. The Elemental Jewel is our Heavenly Jewel Master's secret, and we will not show it easily outside of fights."
Zhou Weiqing looked around and said in a low voice: "Battalion Commander, this Fei Li Empire is really rich! We are at the Skill-Storing Palace now, if we are not going to carry on with Skill-Storing, what are we doing here?"
Shangguan Bing��er said: "We are here to get you a change of clothes. We are here this time basically to look for a Consolidating Equipment Master. I have very limited funds so we are unable to spend much here. Even if we find a good Consolidating Equipment Master, we are still only trying our luck. I just hope we can get something out of this trip."
Entering the Skill-Storing Palace, as compared to the with the greatness shown outside, the inside of the palace seemed a little smaller, after entering the threshold they reached a hall which was only about 200 square meters, with nine exits in the different directions separately.
Shangguan Bing'er then led Zhou Weiqing towards the first entrance on the left; there were no more guards here, not even at the doors, and following the road inwards for about 30 meters, they finally saw a bright light ahead. A hall which appeared a lot larger than the main hall outside revealed itself to Zhou Weiqing's eyes.
Around the hall there were several counters, and behind each counter sat a staff member. The age of the staff varied, but they all wore long white robe, with the same gold Cross Saint Sword Symbol embroidered across the chest area.
Shangguan Bing'er brought Zhou Weiqing in front of a counter, and the staff at the counter immediately stood and asked to them: "Are you both here to register or to report a rise in ranking?"
Zhou Weiqing did not understand what was going on and turned to look at Shangguan Bing'er, who said: "I'm here to report a rise in ranking, he is here to register."
The staff said respectfully: "Good, please show me your Physical Jewels for verification."
Shangguan Bing'er signaled with her eyes to Zhou Weiqing, and displayed her two Dragonstone Jade Physical Jewels once more. Seeing the pure Physical Jewels, the look of respect on the staff's face grew even more respectful.
Shangguan Bing'er took out a golden plaque from her bosom and handed it over to the staff. At the back of the plaque was the same Cross Saint Sword symbol of Fei Li Empire, and the front of the plaque there was a small Dragonstone Jade mounted, surrounded by tattoos as well as a serial number below it.
After the staff received the plaque and checking it for a while, said: "Good day Shangguan Bing'er, you have been promoted from Low Level Heavenly Shi Master to Mid Level Heavenly Shi Master, please wait a while and we will provide you with your new Shi Master Plaque as well as your robe."
As for Zhou Weiqing's side, there was another staff to receive him.
"Welcome to register here at the Skill-Storing Palace of Flying Hill City, a big welcome to you Sir as a Low Level Heavenly Shi Master. Can I carry on with the registration for you now?"
The staff member who was receiving Zhou Weiqing was a 20-year-old girl, with her features only slightly above average, but her figure was very outstanding, especially her chest, which instantly captured Zhou Weiqing's attention.
"Haha, yes, of course, certainly." Zhou Weiqing swallowed his saliva, and blinked his eyes.
"May I please have your name." The young girl could feel Zhou Weiqing's scalding hot vision on her, and knitted her brows. In this place, even a Heavenly Jewel Master would seldom dare to be so rude, furthermore his age seemed so young.
"36D Cup size…" Zhou Weiqing muttered to himself.
The young female staff immediately sweatdropped, her arms raised up to cover her chest, saying "Low Level Heavenly Shi Master, please show some respect. Otherwise, the Skill-Storing Palace has the right to handle those who affront our dignity."
Zhou Weiqing could clearly see that the young girl's left hand, two sapphire Elemental Jewel representing the Water Attribute has appeared, showing her strength a Mid Shi Level Elemental Jewel Master. Although he did not know much about this place, but he could easily guess that Elemental Jewel Masters working here would definitely be able to achieve their Skill-Storing for their Elemental Jewels. Even though he was a Heavenly Jewel Master, without having Consolidated Equipments or Stored Skills, furthermore he had only one set of Jewels, he was probably no match for her!
"Ah! It was not intentional, it all happened subconsciously, Big sis, your amazing talent was so strong that it made me make a judgment subconsciously, you cannot blame me for that." Zhou Weiqing said seriously, but, as he said those words, the '36D Cup' young girl had already stood up in anger.
Zhou Weiqing hurriedly looked to the nearby Shangguan Bing'er with a pleading look, hoping to seek help. However, she calmly said aloud as if to herself: "I do not know him."
Zhou Weiqing's response was so quick, and on seeing that he was about to suffer, he immediately changed the topic, "Registration, time to register right? Name: Little Fatty Zhou, Gender: Male, from the Heavenly Bow Empire, Age: 13 years old. Low Level Heavenly Shi Master, an unmarried handsome strong man." His look was that of complete compliance.
He was after all a Heavenly Jewel Master, and the young girl suppressed her anger and sat back at her position to carry on with the registration. However, the next instance, both she and Shangguan Bing'er's surprised gazes fell simultaneously Zhou Weiqing. Almost in a single tone they exclaimed together: "You are only 13 years old?"
Zhou Weiqing's face revealed his trademark simple and honest smile, and said: "Yes! I'm early to puberty. Even my 'hair' is fully grown, do you need to inspect it? In two months I'll be 14 years old."
What made Shangguan Bing'er most speechless was that Zhou Weiqing's face kept his simple and honest look while he was mouthing off. Still, she really had not expected that this Little Fatty Zhou was actually only 13 years old. Suddenly, in her heart, the hatred towards him was reduced by several points; after all although he was irritating at times, but that incident was not intentional, all she could say was that was fate. If he had not met her, perhaps he would have died already by now.
The young girl who was helping Zhou Weiqing register was obviously not willing to linger around this rascal, and completed the registration as fast as possible, quickly passing him his own plaque and robes. The plaque was almost the same as Shangguan Bing'er's, except the Dragonstone Jade was replaced by an Icy Jade. The robes were all white, with a small golden cross Saint sword symbol on the left part of the chest area.
Shangguan Bing'er's own promotion had also been completed, and on her plaque was now mounted two Dragonstone Jade stones, her robes also had an additional cross Saint sword symbol.
"Lets go." Shangguan Bing'er was not willing to remain here, she did not want to allow that Little Fatty Zhou to continue staying here and causing her to lose face.
As they exited the Skill-Storing Palace, Shangguan Bing'er's foot flew out to kick Zhou Weiqing's ass, and she reprimanded him: "Enough with the trash talk or I'll sew your mouth shut! You��re so young yet with so many dirty tricks, what will happen when you grow up? Hmph, you're only 13-year-old, why did you enlist in the military?" If he had not joined the army, she wouldn't have…. The more she thought about it, the angrier she grew.
Chapter 45: Overlord Bow (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Zhou Weiqing said with a pitiable face: "I have made a mistake, It really was not intentional, it was all subconscious, absolutely subconsciousness."
Shangguan Bing'er gave a cold hmph, "Remember, only after you register with the Skill-Storing Palace, and get the Skill-Storing Palace plaque, then can you carry on with Storing Skills in the Palace. Ordinary Physical and Elemental Jewel Masters can also register here and get the plaque, but they will not have the robes which represent Heavenly Jewel Masters. When going through with Skill-Storing, Heavenly Jewel Masters can enjoy a 10% discount. Every additional gem increase promotion will mean another 10% discount. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to come alone to carry on with Skill-Storing, you must remember to register any promotion first."
Zhou Weiqing said in surprise: "Doesn't that mean that those Heavenly Jewel Masters with 9 Jewels do not need to pay?"
Shangguan Bing'er shook her head, saying: "I do not know either, but it is rumoured that those Heavenly Jewel Masters who are above 6 Jewels seldom go to the Skill Storing Palace anymore. The actual reason is not for those Heavenly Jewel Masters of our level to know."
"Battalion commander, can I ask how much money does our Skill Storing require?" Zhou Weiqing's heart was really itching to try it out, having the means of growing stronger right in front of him, yet being unable to do so due to money, this made him feel very out of sorts in his heart. Although his father was very honest and did not have much money, but his godfather was after all the ruler of their country, furthermore he was now a Heavenly Jewel Master, in the future when he returned to the Heavenly Bow Empire he should be able to ask for some money for Skill-Storing.
Shangguan Bing'er said: "One attempt at Skill Storing is about 500 gold coins."
Zhou Weiqing blinked, "500 gold coins, that's not really very expensive!"
Shangguan Bing'er looked at him coldly, "The success rate has less than 1%. If your luck is bad, you may not even succeed after trying several hundred times. The worst thing is the loss of the time, a Jewel Master can only go through one Skill Storing every day. The price I mentioned is also only for the ordinary Heavenly Beasts. If we are talking about the higher level Zun Beasts or Zong Beasts, the price is astronomical. However, the success rate is slightly higher for them, and their skills will also be generally better."
Zhou Weiqing was struck speechless; to his knowledge, the annual tax revenue of Heavenly Bow City was only 500,000 gold coins. No wonder Shangguan Bing'er mentioned that their empire was not able to support many Heavenly Jewel Masters.
"So Heavenly Beasts are similar to us and have some sort of ranking. Alright, let's forget about Skill Storing for now. Let's go to the Consolidating Equipment Master that you mentioned." This was the first time that Zhou Weiqing realised how important money was. The cultivation of Heavenly Jewel Masters was more difficult than he had thought.
Shangguan Bing'er nodded, saying: "Now you know why I always place so much importance on saving money. Honestly, even if our Heavenly Bow Empire has that many Heavenly Jewel Masters, our empire is not able to support us all. After all, our country is really too tiny compared to the huge empires like Fei Li empire or Bai Da Empire. Without our own Skill-Storing Palace, it is impossible to organize a team of formidable Heavenly Jewel Masters."
"Let's find a place to stay first. After we wash up a little and change, we can go look for a good Consolidating Equipment Master." Shangguan Bing'er thought after thinking a while.
"Did I hear correctly? Did a steel tree bloom*?" Zhou Weiqing said as he looked at her in surprise.
*TL: A direct translation of 铁树开花, an idiom meaning something almost impossible happening – he is referring to her being miserly and willing to spend money on a room to stay.
Shangguan Bing'er's beautiful face turned red, "Are you courting death? Do you want to stay or not?"
"Stay, of course I'll stay."
After fifteen minutes, the two of them were standing in the hall of a small little hotel. This hotel was really small and only had one level; besides its cleanliness, Zhou Weiqing could not find another merit in it.
"Boss, please gives us a room." Shangguan Bing'er told the 50-year-old hotel boss standing behind the counter.
The hotel boss looked at the two of them and gave them a lascivious smile, before handing over a key covered with embroidery. He said: "Room 1, one silver coin for two days. You young people, must learn to control yourselves heh."
Taking the key, Shangguan Bing'er just turned unemotionally and walked off. but Zhou Weiqing actually gesticulated to the boss and showed off his muscle, "Boss, what sort of eyes do you have! Look at me so vigorous and healthy, why would I need to control?"
"Zhou — Little — Fatty — !!"
"Here!" Zhou Weiqing answered quickly, and rushed to follow.
Following Shangguan Bing'er, he asked with a sad face: "Battalion Commander, we finally entered a city and you only took one room, you won't make me sleep outside on the streets to save money right?"
Shangguan Bing'er shot a look at him, saying: "You and I will stay in this one."
Zhou Weiqing was stunned instantaneously, his brain dazed as he opened his mouth, his saliva flowing out, and he muttered: "This… this… happiness comes so quickly. Battalion Commander, are we advancing too quickly?"
"Little Fatty Zhou, I have endured you for too long!" Shangguan Bing'er gave a low roar that made Zhou Weiqing shut up instantly; he knew that knows, generally before a tigress attacks she would roar like that.
The room was not very big, but was at least clean, it actually had a bathroom for washing and excretion, and could be considered fully equipped.
There was only a single bed in the room, and Shangguan Bing'er dropped off her backpack before sitting on the bed. At this moment, her beautiful face revealed her weariness, and Zhou Weiqing who was looking at her felt a pain in his heart.
"Little Fatty Zhou. Come here." Shangguan Bing'er beckoned to Zhou Weiqing who was standing at the side.
"Orh." Having angered her earlier, this time Zhou Weiqing came honestly, his face a picture of simple sincerity.
Before he could even come to a stop, Shangguan Bing'er moved all of a sudden, her speed pushed to the limit in that very instance, Zhou Weiqing was sure that in that moment she had simultaneously used both her Physical and Elemental Jewels. All he saw was a flash in front of his eyes, and suddenly both his hands were gripped and his arms were pushed down hard onto the bed.
"Battalion Commander, don't be so violent, I won't resist." Feeling the soft smoothness of Shangguan Bing'er's hands, Zhou Weiqing's heart instantly became lascivious. However, in the next instant he was unable to maintain that lascivious-ness.
Shangguan Bing'er took out a string from an nowhere, and quickly tied up Zhou Weiqing's hands and feet, then fastening him firmly to bed.
"Battalion commander, did you like this? You won't be using the leather whip and candle right? I'm afraid of pain!" Even at this time, this rascal could not control his mouth.
Shangguan Bing'er gave him a quick kick, "If you talk more trash, I'll take your sock and shove it in your mouth."
"I'm shutting up now!" Nobody knew clearer than Zhou Weiqing how dirty his socks were. Probably if he took them off and threw them at the wall, they might even stick on… if those were shoved into his mouth ...
A moment later, Zhou Weiqing finally understood why Shangguan Bing'er tied him up, as he heard the sound of running water. This beautiful lady Battalion Commander was taking a bath now. Obviously, tying him up was to prevent this rascal from peeping. In truth, Shangguan Bing'er's actions were definitely correct. Even tied up there, Zhou Weiqing's mind couldn't help but drift off into a daydream, as lascivious pictures fluttered across his mind. After all, he had actually seen her before…
Chapter 46: Overlord Bow (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
After less than an hour, the bathroom doors opened, and the next instance Zhou Weiqing felt his bindings loosened as the string was untied. When he looked up, he was absolutely stunned instantaneously.
The Shangguan Bing'er in front of him had her blue hair wet around her head, the large Heavenly Jewel Master robe wrapped around her body; because she had just taken a bath, her beautiful face was blushing red like a ripe apple, her entire body also giving off an alluring scent after bathing. That incomparable attraction made Zhou Weiqing's mind freeze in its tracks.
"Little Hoodlum. Go take a bath." Shangguan Bing'er suddenly blushed and turned around to the side. The reason was very simple, she accidentally saw that Little Fatty Zhou's certain body part bulge out*. Earlier when that rascal was daydreaming, his body has gotten a … reaction.
The speed that Zhou Weiqing took his bath was in no way faster than Shangguan Bing'er. Throughout the journey, Shangguan Bing'er had frequently cleaned her body in creeks or rivers while he prepared food during that time. As such, he was extremely dirty as you could imagine. Finally being able to take a bath, how could he not be happy and slowly enjoy it.
When Zhou Weiqing came out from the bathroom, he saw in front of him that the quilt from the bed had been spread out on the ground. Obviously, this was the place that he would be sleeping tonight.
Shangguan Bing'er also couldn't help but take a second look at him when he walked out from the bathroom; although Zhou Weiqing was not particularly handsome, that he was the decent looking sort that was easy on the eye. Most particularly was his grandiose stature, after absorbing the black pearl, his height had reached nearly 1.75 metres, you definitely could not tell that he was less than 14 years old from his looks, especially from the nimble and resourceful black eyes he had. At this time after changing into a Heavenly Jewel Master robe, it was as if he looked like a totally different person.
"Let's go." Shangguan Bing'er was not willing to show the chaos in her heart to be seen by him, and immediately set off again. The both of them wearing the Heavenly Jewel Master robe, although you couldn't say they were a perfect match, but at least when they walked together there wasn't that huge contrast like when they were entering the city.
As they left the hotel, the hotel boss' eyes nearly popped out of their sockets when he saw their Heavenly Jewel Master gowns. He had never expected that one day he would have two Heavenly Jewel Masters would be staying at his tiny little hotel.
Zhou Weiqing felt the obvious change when they once again walked onto the streets of Flying Hill City. The passer-bys on the street would obviously give way to both him and Shangguan Bing'er, their eyes showing much respect. This was the treatment towards Heavenly Jewel Masters, even in Fei Li Empire such a formidable empire, the status of Heavenly Jewel Masters was still incomparably lofty.
"Battalion Commander, can we walk slowly?" Having just taken a long enjoyable bath, Zhou Weiqing felt his whole body being extremely comfortable and languid, yet as soon as Shangguan Bing'er had exited, she had moved at a high speed.
After just a short while, Zhou Weiqing discovered with some amazement that Shangguan Bing'er had actually led him to return to near the Skill-Storing Palace again, but instead of entering it again, she walked towards a bunch of short houses opposite the Palace. These short houses did not look unique in anyway, and was composed of several small courtyards, and compared with the grand architecture of the Skill-Storing Palace, it looked very simple and ordinary. However, as they got closer, Zhou Weiqing actually discovered that the area was unexpectedly very quiet, and very few people actually approached it. In between the small courtyards there was an alley of about two meters width.
Shangguan Bing'er walked familiarly deeper through the alleys, and as they walked along she told Zhou Weiqing: "If we are not wearing the Heavenly Jewel Master robes, once we approach this area, we will be stopped by the Jewel masters who are guarding this place. A Consolidating Equipment Master is staying in each courtyard, and they are all very honoured elders. Later, you better be carefully, if you speak rubbish at such a place, I cannot guarantee your safety. In any country, the status of Consolidating Equipment Master is absolute. There are even fewer of them than Heavenly Jewel Masters, in fact most of them are actually Heavenly Jewel Masters who have the spatial attribute."
"En." Zhou Weiqing agreed, this time he did not trash talk again.
Shangguan Bing'er brought him to one of the deeper small courtyards and stopped in front of the gate; she walked forward and knocked lightly on the gate, "Huyan Senior, are you at home?"
A moment later, the gate opened, a middle-aged man walked out from within. He was very tall, about two meters, but not very well built and had a slim figure, looking around 40-years of age, with his face like an ancient moon, wearing simple grey cotton garments. He seemed very ordinary, except with a very cold face.
The first thing Zhou Weiqing noted were his hands, both were very large, slender just like his stature, his ten fingers were clear like jade, as if his hands were the most important core of his body.
When Shangguan Bing'er saw the middle-aged man, she immediately bowed in greeting, saying respectfully: "Wind Senior, Hello. Is Huyan Senior in?"
On seeing her, the middle-aged man was somewhat surprised, "Oh it's you, little girl! You've promoted so quickly? Huyan that old fellow is in, but you know he is famous for being stingy, he will not lift a finger to help. Do you have enough money prepared?"
Hearing the description from the middle-aged man, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but to give out a quick laugh, saying to her in a low voice: "Battalion Commander, isn't that Huyan Senior your teacher then?"
Shangguan Bing'er turned head and glared at him angrily, "Shut up! Quickly greet Wind Senior now."
Zhou Weiqing then saluted the middle-aged, "Hello senior, my name is Little Fatty Zhou."
The middle-aged man nodded, saying: "Comes in then." As he said that, he entered the house.
They entered the courtyard behind him. Inside, it seemed like a different world altogether, besides a small path that was paved with gravel which led to the main house, the entire courtyard was filled with various flowers and plants. Although there weren't any huge trees, but it was a scene of abundant spring beauty, the air fresh, and the fragrance of the flowers gladdening the heart.
As they walked along the path and entered the room right in the middle, the middle-aged man said loudly: "Huyan Old Man, guests have arrived."
The furnishings within the room were arranged elegantly, the innermost part of the room there was a screen of painted art, and in the front was a square table and a large round-backed wooden armchair, there weren't actually any furnishing for entertaining guests.
Before Zhou Weiqing had a chance to size up the room, he noticed a meatball walking in from a side room, when he focused his eyes, he realised it was an old man.
This man looked to be around 60 to 70 years old, his beard and hair totally white, but was still glowing with health. His face did not have wrinkles, but his eyes had been squeezed by the fat on his face that only two slits remained, yet they still seemed to glow with vigor. He was dressed in the similar simple grey cotton garment, but his sleeves were particularly long, covering both hands. The most obvious characteristic was his stature, as he looked like a large round watermelon.
Chapter 47: Overlord Bow (4)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"Greetings Huyan Senior." Shangguan Bing'er's look turned more respectful than before, her hand also pushing Zhou Weiqing to salute to the chubby old man respectfully.
The fat old man's small eyes rolled about as he waved his hands, "No need for pleasantries or idle talk. You want Consolidating Equipment Scrolls right, the price tags are all displayed clearly. I currently have three for sale, you can choose for yourself." As he said that, he waved his sleeves, and three pieces of paper appeared on the square table.
Zhou Weiqing rubbed his eyes, checking that he had not missed seeing anything, but he had not actually noticed how these three pieces of paper appeared.
Shangguan Bing'er squeezed Zhou Weiqing's hands forcefully, giving him a severe warning glare, warning him not to speak, before pulling him to the square table.
Zhou Weiqing who was being pulled by her soft tender hands felt extremely comfortable, and he was also rather curious about the Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, thus he did not try to do anything funny and followed her to the table.
The three pieces of paper on the square table were actually three pictures, each depicting different things. The first to attract Zhou Weiqing's attention was the leftmost picture which was a drawing of a round shield, the shield's surface was densely covered with lines like that of a turtle's shell, and right in the middle there was a small round indent. Although it was just a picture, it actually gave out a dignified and tough feeling. To someone like Zhou Weiqing who was coveted life and feared death, it was without a doubt of enormous attraction to him. Written beside the picture was a single line of words: Xuan Wu Shield, limited to either Strength, Endurance or Toughness Attribute Heavenly Jewel Masters to use. Able to mount Elemental Jewel.
Zhou Weiqing could understand the words in front, but the sentence at the end about mounting Elemental Jewels was something he was not quite clear about. Furthermore, the restriction of the shield being only usable by Heavenly Jewel Masters made him somewhat puzzled.
The picture on the right was that of a pair of boots, although it only several simple patterns on it, but it actually gave forth a light and lively feeling, at the ankle area of the boots there was another of the small round indents. Inscribed beside were the words: Wind Wielding Boots, limited for Agility Attribute Heavenly Jewel Masters to use, able to mount Elemental Jewel.
Shangguan Bing'er's gaze lingered on this picture for a while, before turning to the central picture, almost at the same time as Zhou Weiqing.
The picture was that of a long bow, in a simple and unsophisticated style, the bow arc was rather very small, and there was no bowstring, the small round socket in position at the hand grip area. The entire bow only had a single large tattoo extending from top to bottom, but it actually gave out an intense and ominous feel, as if it were the blood on a sharp knife blade.
Annotation: Overlord Bow, limited to strength attribute Heavenly Jewel Masters to use, able to mount Elemental Jewels, 10% discount for High Level Heavenly Shi Jewel Masters.
Zhou Weiqing's gaze only rested on the Overlord Bow for a short while, before returning to the Xuan Wu Shield, which he was starting to like more the more he looked at it. In his heart he mused that if that shield was large enough, he would be immune to any arrows in the battlefield.
"Huyan Senior, how much money does this Overlord Bow Consolidating Equipment Scroll cost?" After a moment of hesitation, Shangguan Bing'er's eyes turned firm and she asked.
The fat old man glanced at her, saying: "Little girl, if I have remembered correctly, you are of the agile attribute. You should know my rules. You cannot bring away the Consolidating Equipment Scroll."
Shangguan Bing'er nodded, saying: "Of course I know the rules of Senior, I am buying this for my friend here, his Physical Jewel is of pure Strength Attribute."
The fat old man said calmly: "200,000 gold coins."
Shangguan Bing'er's face changed, her delicate eyebrows furrowed as she went deep into thought. Zhou Weiqing actually raised his head, his face startled. Although he had guessed that Consolidating Equipment Scrolls would be expensive, but this was way above his expectations. 200,000 gold coins, and this was only the price of his very first Physical Jewel, if he were to complete all 12 of his Physical Jewels, how much money would that take?
His eyes swirling as he thought, Zhou Weiqing thought of something and asked with his simple and honest face: "Senior, how much does this Xuan Wu Shield cost?"
The fat old man said: "120,000 gold coins."
Shangguan Bing'er turned around to stare at him, "No, you cannot choose the shield. This Overlord Bow is more suitable for you."
Zhou Weiqing gave a helpless look, saying, "Battalion Commander, I think that those Wind Wielding Boots are even more suitable for you! How about you buy those first, I am not anxious to get mine." In his heart he had some secret plans, he would go back to ask his godfather for some money, then secretly run back here to buy the Xuan Wu Shield.
Shangguan Bing'er shook her head, saying: "I already have my first Physical Jewel with a Consolidated Equipment, it is sufficient to protect myself. You on the other hand do not have anything yet. Huyan Senior, I have 150,000 gold coins. Can I leave you with the money first, then go back to get the other 50,000 gold coins, and you help me reserve this Overlord Bow Consolidating Equipment Scroll for a few days please?"
Listened to Shangguan Bing'er's words, Zhou Weiqing went totally silent, his face full of disbelief as he looked at her. He had actually been joking when asking Shangguan Bing'er to buy him the scrolls, in his mind, Shangguan Bing'er was so miserly that she would definitely not buy such expensive things. He has really never expected her to so decisively decide to purchase the Overlord Bow Scroll; more importantly, she was buying that Consolidating Equipment Scroll not for her own use, but to give to him!
Zhou Weiqing suddenly felt a burst of hot air rush towards both his eyes, and his gaze towards Shangguan Bing'er changed a lot, the fist hidden in his sleeves were gripped together fiercely.
The fat old man gave a humph, "Reserve? Don't you know my rules? You are already lucky that you found me today with three whole sets of Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. I only created three sets of Consolidating Equipment Scrolls this year, within three days these three sets should be completely sold out. Why should I reserve it for you? If you do not have money, just leave." Saying that, he turned around to leave, his words were cold and did not give any face at all.
Shangguan Bing'er's face was full of anxiety as she pled: "Senior, can't you please stretch the rules a little? I will also leave my Purple Dawn Bow here as a mortgage. I can rush back here at top speed."
The fat old man said impatiently: "Less useless idle talk, go away."
Zhou Weiqing suddenly took a step forward, blocking the way of the fat old man, at the same time he said sincerely, "Senior, please stretch the rules for us. We have travelled a long way to you because your Consolidating Equipment Scrolls are the best. Please give us a chance."
The fat old man gave an angry humph, "Overlord Bow Consolidating Equipment Scroll, now 300,000 gold coins. Now have you given up? Get the hell out!"
Zhou Weiqing was momentarily stunned, this fat old man was simply so unreasonable, he had unexpectedly risen the price by 100,000 gold coins with no reason. Immediately, his anger rose as well and he snapped, "Do you need to be so ruthless? If you give others a chance, in the future it will benefit you too!"
The fat old man glared at him coldly, "400,000 gold coins."