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Chapter 351: The power of Little Miss Muddle. (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Just as Ma Qun was starting to daydream about the beautiful future he would have, the situation abruptly changed for. Upon seeing Zhou Weiqing be injured and coughing up blood, Ma Qun, who was in such an emotionally charged state, did not even think before charging forward. It was only until he was standing in front of Zhou Weiqing protectively, that he suddenly remembered that he was only at the two-Jeweled stage, without a single piece of Consolidated Equipment…

"Good brother…" Zhou Weiqing's voice came from behind, causing Ma Qun's quivering heart to stabilize a little.

Originally, Zhou Weiqing's first meeting with Ma Qun had been his wily tricks, trying to fool him. As such, he did not have a good first impression of him, and did not think too highly of him. It was only at this point that he truly started to look upon Ma Qun as a true brother.

The remaining three black Zun Stage enemies and the single seven-Jeweled powerhouse paused slightly at the sight of Ma Qun's appearance. Zhou Weiqing had given them too huge of a shock, and they subconsciously thought that anyone together with Zhou Weiqing would be powerful as well. That was especially since they knew of the existence of Lin TianAo, that ultimate Defense Heavenly Jewel Master. Seeing the yellow glow around the large body of Ma Qun's, they immediately stopped, and did not charge forward.

However, in the next moment, they spotted the puny two Physical Jewels around Ma Qun's wrist, and an embarrassed look crossed their faces. They were all at least upper level Zun Stage or higher, and they had actually been intimidated by a mere two-Jeweled little fellow. That was such a huge loss of face.

Zhou Weiqing was not in a good state currently. The coughing out of blood was actually not the main issue, after all, in the Demonic Change State, his toughness, resistance, and ability to take hits was not to be underestimated. Furthermore, his own physique and healing capabilities was also extremely strong. Added to the fact, the Immortal Deity Shield had also helped blocked a large portion of damage, and the enemy's strike, while powerful, was not his full strength too. Although Zhou Weiqing had been injured, it was not very serious.

However, the true problem was that in that attack, it had caused Zhou Weiqing's Devoured Heavenly Energy to be in trouble. His energy whirlpools had already slowed down to almost a halt, causing his internal Heavenly Energy to be in a messy flux, and he was unable to fully control the external Devoured Heavenly Energy. As such, he was in a total mess internally, even his Yin Yang Giant Spirit Palms were on the verge of losing control and dissipating.

What now?! Zhou Weiqing's mind spun rapidly. If Ma Qun was not here, he believed that he could still manage to attempt to escape, and perhaps barely succeed. As long as he could escape, with his recovery rate and many Skills, he definitely had a chance of staying alive. However, Ma Qun was now right in front of him… how could he possibly run away at this time. If he did so, Zhou Weiqing would never be able to forgive himself. As such, he could only stay and fight.

Making a prompt decision on the spot, Zhou Weiqing instantly dismissed the Yin Yang Giant Spirit Palms, taking out the Black Dawn Bow from his Spatial Ring and nocking an arrow to it. At his current state, he could no longer afford to use any more Consolidated Equipment, and could only fight with his archery. Although his efforts might be, and would most likely be futile, there was always a small thread of hope if he fought with all his might…

All of a sudden, at this critical moment, a door of a small room to the side opened, and Dou Dou walked out in a confused state. "What are you all doing… so noisy… I was sleeping so soundly…"

Seeing her blurry look, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but feel a sense as if he did not know whether to laugh or cry. They had been fighting so loudly outside, yet this girl could still sleep so soundly.

With the appearance of Little Miss Muddle, the four black clad men who had been about to launch their attacks paused once more. However, this time, they did not delay for long. After all, Dou Dou did not seem even as threatening as Ma Qun, and they dismissed her quickly. Instantly, the four of them jumped up and pounced towards Ma Qun and Zhou Weiqing.

"You all can't hit him!" Dou Dou said urgently. As she said that, no one else could clearly see how she moved, and in a silver flash of light, Dou Dou was standing right in front of Ma Qun and Zhou Weiqing, blocking the four black clad men's route. The next moment, another bright screen of silver light rose up, and four muffled thumping sounds rang out, and the four black clad men all flew backwards about ten yards before landing hard.

Dou Dou spread apart her delicate, thin hands, making an action like a mother chicken protecting her young chicks. She was not tall, her figure that of a petite young lady, and that action of hers in contrast to her figure would have seemed rather funny. However, at that moment, no one found it funny at all, because around those delicate hands of hers, seven glowing Dragonstone Jade Physical Jewels revolved around her left wrist, while seven blue-green Elemental Jewels revolved around her right wrist.

It was a unique blue-green colour, a gem that was rare enough that the black clad men did not recognize it at once. However, Zhou Weiqing instantly did. They were Alexandrite Gemstones!

What did Alexandrite Gemstones signify? It meant that Dou Dou's Elemental Jewels had at least between two to four Elemental Attributes!

As such, the ones who were the most shocked weren't their enemies, but Zhou Weiqing and Ma Qun!

None of them had imagined that this Little Miss Muddle who only seemed to know how to eat all day long would be such a hidden powerhouse.

In terms of age, Dou Dou was actually a little older than the three Shangguan sisters, but even so, Zhou Weiqing had not expected her to be actually at the seven-Jeweled stage.

As for the four black clad enemies, their expressions were extremely ugly. After a short moment of stunned dullness, they finally recognized the rare Alexandrite gemstone, and that she had used a Spatial Attribute earlier against them.

Then again, Dou Dou's teacher was the greatest God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master in the world today, Xing Tianyi. For him to fancy her talents enough to take her as his disciple, how could her talent and gifts be low at all?

In fact, Dou Dou's Elemental Jewel Attributes were that of Spatial and Wind, with her Physical Jewel being that of the Agility Attribute. Although in terms of Consolidating Equipment Master talent, she could not compare to Zhou Weiqing with the additional Time Attribute, she could already be considered to be one of the rare talents that came about only once in a hundred years. Furthermore, in terms of disposition and character, Dou Dou definitely had a large edge over Zhou Weiqing. She was much more simple, pure in nature, and it was definitely a lot easier for someone like her to focus on one thing, and not be distracted easily by anything else. If not for the fact that Xing Tianyi approved of Zhou Weiqing and thought well of his character, he would not have allowed his precious disciple to leave together with him!

As for Dou Dou's cultivation level, that was even simpler. As the only main disciple of the greatest Consolidating Equipment Master, who was also a powerful Heavenly Jewel Master in his own right, how could she lack any teachings. Furthermore, she was also older than Shangguan Xue'er, and with her simple nature, she had definitely spent a lot of time focused on cultivating as well. More so, in terms of treasures and supplements for her training, how could she possibly lack those with Xing Tianyi behind her?

Zhou Weiqing's mouth trembled a little. No wonder Old Xing had said that Dou Dou could protect herself. From what she had shown so far, she was probably even more powerful than he was now.

"Dou Dou, beat them up, and I'll give you something good to eat." After spending these few days with her, Zhou Weiqing had a very good understanding about Dou Dou, and he immediately threw out his top 'weapon' of allure to her.

Dou Dou blinked her eyes, looking at Zhou Weiqing awkwardy, saying: "But… but… Big Bro Little Fatty, I do not know how to beat someone up! However, I won't let them beat you too… if they beat you til you are broken, then I won't have anything to eat."

"Let's go." The Low Level Zong Stage enemy could not withstand the pressure any longer. Seeing Dou Dou's power, he did not think that Dou Dou was telling the truth, and assumed that she was mocking them.

Alas, at this point, it was too late for them.

Along the walls of the courtyard, a few figures appeared, and Lin TianAo's voice rang out from above. "Did you think you could leave so easily after taking action in our Fei Li City? Get them!"

It was not just Lin TianAo. Crow, Little Four, Xiao Yan, Drunken Bao and Yun Li had all arrived.

The reason why they had taken so long to was due to the fact that they had won the champion of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, and they been delayed by some celebrations in the Heavenly Jewel Academy. After which, they had joined up with Yun Li before heading down to Zhou Weiqing's house. Luckily, they had clearly seen the Heavenly Skill Image of the Demonic Dragon Lady in the distance while en route, and they had rushed down immediately, to arrive just in time at this point.

Lin TianAo and the others did not have time to be shocked about Little Miss Muddle's power, and they quickly launched their attacks.

With his companions all here, Zhou Weiqing no longer needed to hold back anything. Of course, in his current state, he couldn't do much else to help. Still, the Dragon Silencing Seal did not require any Heavenly Energy to use, and he expended the last three of his remaining Dragon Silencing Seals on the low level Zong Stage and two other upper level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Masters.

These black clad men might have a high cultivation level, but in terms of Consolidated Equipment and Stored Skills, they were no match for the members of the Fei Li Battle Team.

The Fei Li Battle Team could be said to be the cream of the crop of the younger generation of the entire Fei Li Empire. This was especially so for Lin TianAo, who had actually already broken through to the six-Jeweled stage a day before, and he had already Consolidated the sixth shield of his Assembly Set. Let alone these six, seven Jeweled Masters in front of him, it would not be easy for even ordinary eight or nine Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters to break through his defense. Furthermore, these black clad men had already expended a lot of their energy in the fight against Zhou Weiqing, and now with the Dragon Silencing Seal, they could be said to be fangless tigers. Instantly, they were in a severely disadvantageous position.

Seeing his companions surround and attack the enemies, Zhou Weiqing heaved a sigh of relief. Under the protection of Ma Qun and Dou Dou, he backed down to the side and sat down cross-legged to start to cultivating and recovering. Before that, he did not forget to summon the two Icy Soul Heavenly Bears to head to the walls, as a precaution in case the four enemies tried to escape.

In this fight today, Zhou Weiqing had used so many of his Skills, and if possible, he did not want any of the enemies to escape and allow the Bai Da Empire to learn more about his own abilities. As such, when Lin TianAo and the rest had charged forward, he had already given them the signal to kill them off. Towards members of the Bai Da Empire, he did not have any shred of mercy, as they were already mortal enemies.

…

In the end, Zhou Weiqing's ace-up-the-sleeves Icy Soul Heavenly Bears did not get to do anything. Under the effect of the Dragon Silencing Seal, the seven-Jeweled Zong Stage Master was not even able to take on Lin TianAo, and the other four naturally did not stand any chance against the rest of the team.

Xiao Yan managed to kill off one, while Crow also chopped down another with her Axes. The last two were also taken down by the others working together. The Bai Da Empire had truly suffered a great loss today, having lost all eight of the powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters they had sent to assassinate Zhou Weiqing.

In the end, clearing the battlefield was a simple task. Lin TianAo was an Earth Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master, and he easily commanded the earth to swallow up the bodies before restoring to its original state.

"Weiqing, are you alright?" After getting rid of the bodies, Lin TianAo walked up to Zhou Weiqing. At this point, no one knew why, but Ma Qun had cowered to another corner with his head lowered, and only Dou Dou was at Zhou Weiqing's side.

Chapter 352: The power of Little Miss Muddle. (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Zhou Weiqing let loose a breath he had been holding. After recuperating and cultivation for that short while, his energy whirlpools had finally managed to ease away most of the Devoured Heavenly Energy and began spinning relatively normally again. However, this had also given him a severe warning that even the powerful Devour Skill was not invincible, and there was a limit to everything. This was especially so when he was facing multiple enemies or extremely powerful ones, and that restriction could mean his life if he was not careful.

"Just some minor injuries, I will be fine." With the bloodline of the Dark Demon God Tiger, his regenerative rate was extremely strong, and his injuries weren't too serious in the first place, and a few days of rest would be sufficient for him to fully recover.

Lin TianAo furrowed his brow tightly before saying: "Bai Da?"

Zhou Weiqing nodded, then paused before saying coldly: "Maybe."

At the side, Little Four said curiously: "Besides them, who else could it be?"

Lin TianAo sighed and shook his head lightly, but did not say anything further.

Zhou Weiqing looked at him, his mouth twitched upwards in a cold smile as he said: "You have also thought of the same thing…"

Lin TianAo nodded solemnly. "Besides that, I cannot think of any reason to explain what happened today. Yun Li has already told me what happened to you in the Fei Li Royal Family Military ACademy. Although I do not want to believe that this is true, but I have no choice but to suspect him. Sigh… He has after all been through life and death with us, and I cannot understand it."

Zhou Weiqing shrugged and said: "It is nothing, everyone has their own thoughts and choices. After all, he is the representative of the nobles, and to him, we are all just commoners. More importantly, if he is just thinking for the sake of the Fei Li Empire, his choice is not totally wrong. As for whether or not jealousy has played a part in his decision… that is hard to say. My dear Senior Paopao, perhaps next time we meet, we will no longer be comrades, and will be enemies instead."

No matter Zhou Weiqing or Lin TianAo, both of them suspected Ye Paopao. If not for the news that Ye Paopao had brought back and reported, how could the Fei Li Royal Family know so much about how Zhou Weiqing had offended the Blood Red Hell during the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, or the other news about the Passion Valley and Heaven's Expanse Palace. It was just exactly because of this news about how Zhou Weiqing had helped the Wanshou Battle Team against the Heaven's Expanse Palace and Passion Valley that had caused the Fei Li Empire to be so unreasonable and exile him from their Empire even after Zhou Weiqing had helped them gain such honour by winning the Championship of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament. 1

Furthermore, Zhou Weiqing and the rest had just returned, and he had barely entered his own house when he had been attacked. What could that mean? Even if the black clad men really came from the Bai Da Empire, for them to be able to be here at such a time, that could only mean that they had somehow gotten news about his whereabouts… And there weren't many people who could actually feed them with such news.

Besides Ye Paopao, there was almost no other good explanation. As for whether or not the black clad men actually came from the Bai Da Empire or were men from the Premier, that was not important any longer.

Lin TianAo asked Zhou Weiqing: "What do we do now? What are your plans?"

Zhou Weiqing thought about it for a moment, then said: "We will leave later tonight, at least the Fei Li Royal Family and officials do not have any plans to kill me, and they will not forbid us from leaving. In any case, we will leave in the cover of the night, but I need to wait a while for some of the Seniors graduating from my Academy. Every extra man is an additional strength that is critical for our advancement in the future."

As they were speaking, all of a sudden, they were interrupted by an abrupt howl of anger. "Ma Qun! You bastard! You are actually here!!"

*PENG* A loud but muffled sound rang out, and everyone stared in the direction the sound came from, confused.

The sight of Ma Qun's immense body being held by Crow by one hand by the sleeve, pressed against the wall, greeted them.

In terms of size and figure, Ma Qun was actually larger and stouter than Crow. However, in terms of strength and power, he was far from her. Currently, being shoved against the wall by Crow, he looked helpless, his face the colour of earth, and his expression as if he was about to cry but unable to do so.

Zhou Weiqing started a moment, shocked. The next instance, a long-missed mischievous grin appeared on his face as he said wickedly: "Crow, wait a minute."

Crow turned her head to look at Zhou Weiqing. Towards this young man whose age was even younger than hers, yet whose strength grew at such a rapid pace that he had even eclipsed her, such a terrifying fellow had indeed earned her respect. Furthermore, she had always treated Zhou Weiqing as her valued companion. As such, she loosened her grip momentarily, but did not let Ma Qun down.

Zhou Weiqing looked at Crow, then at Ma Qun, who cried out in a wail: "Boss, for the sake of our brotherhood, save me please!"

Zhou Weiqing patted Crow on the back and said: "Crow, don't tell me that Ma Qun is the fiance who ran away from your marriage?"

Crow nodded hard, gritting her teeth as she said: "Besides this bastard, who else could it be? Originally, our families had already arranged our marriage, but when he met me, he ran off without telling anyone, with nobody knowing where he disappeared to. It took me a while of searching before finding traces that he was in the Fei Li City. Today, I have finally found this bastard. Ma Qun, speak now, why did you run away? Is it because I'm ugly?"

Even facing the most powerful enemies, Crow could face them valiantly without changing expressions. However, at this moment, facing this fiance who ran from her, her face was red with anger.

Facing Crow in such a state, Ma Qun could only stare at her helplessly, not knowing what to say; especially when he looked to everyone else, he realised that no one would stand by his side. Immediately, he could only remain silent dejectedly.

Dou Dou was beside Zhou Weiqing all this while, and at that moment, she blinked and said: "Teacher said before that one cannot judge beauty from appearance, and the beauty in the heart is the most important. I feel that Sister Crow's inner heart is very beautiful."

Zhou Weiqing glanced at her, secretly thinking to himself: This girl, could it be that Crow bought her a few roast lamb legs on the way back, so she says that?

Once again, Zhou Weiqing patted Crow on the back before pointing at the large room at the side, saying: "Don't injure him too badly, otherwise he is in your hands. Some things, you will need to vent out. No matter whether or not you two end up together, one has to pay for their mistakes. Go then, you do not need to give me face."

Ma Qun looked at Zhou Weiqing with a plaintive, pitiable look, as if wanting to say something. However, when he saw Crow's teary eyes, he could not say anything. At that moment, he suddenly felt an itch in his ear, and a soft thin voice rang out in his ears almost imperceptibly. Wasn't that his boss Zhou Weiqing's voice?

If it were in the past, Zhou Weiqing would not have cared about Ma Qun; if he didn't let Crow beat him up until he was half dead, Zhou Weiqing would not have his own anger assuaged. That fellow ran away from his marriage, forcing his own fiancee to search for so long; he was definitely the very definition of 'Asking for Trouble'. If he did not want to marry someone, he just had to speak out, why run away like that?

However, just a few moments ago, Ma Qun had stood out in a moment of critical danger, blocking in front of him despite the danger to himself. In that moment, Zhou Weiqing had already treated him as a true brother already. As such, he could not burn the bridge after crossing it2, and helping him a little was something he had to do.

As such, for this matter between him and Crow, Zhou Weiqing decided to help him just this once. Whatever happens between them in the future, that would be up to them, and he would no longer interfere.

Ma Qun said with a pitiable look on his face towards Crow: "Let me go first, this is between the two of us husband and wife, don't let the others look at us as a joke. We can go to the room and talk, and you can do whatever you want with me. I am a man, at least leave me some face in public."

These words he said were according to what Zhou Weiqing had just taught him.

Crow started for a moment, then said angrily: "You still know you are a man? Who is husband and wife with you?!" Although she said that, in the end she still let go of Ma Qun, stomping off huffily into the room.

Ma Qun looked at Zhou Weiqing, who gave him a significant look. Ma Qun had nothing left to lose, knowing he could not hide any longer, and he gave Zhou Weiqing a hidden thumbs up before following behind Crow. As he passed by Zhou Weiqing, he was quickly given something.

Zhou Weiqing thought to himself. Brother, I have thought you all I can, you can only pray for yourself now.

The reason why he told Ma Qun to say that earlier was because he knew Crow very well. Although she might seem very bold unrestrained and forthright, in truth she was extremely quick witted and sharp, with an eye for detail. Her art of 'acting like a pig to eat a tiger' was almost even better than Zhou Weiqing. To give her own man face was something important to all women, especially for intelligent women like her. After all, they had not truly torn apart their relationship, and were still considered fiance and fiancee.

Ma Qun followed Crow into the room, before turning to close the door, forcing himself to look as composed as possible.

Having entered the room first, Crow spun around abruptly, glaring at him with a cold light in her eyes.

Ma Qun sighed, and this two metre tall young man took a step forward towards Crow before sighing once more and said: "Crow, I know that I have done an irreparable harm to you, and no matter how many times I apologize, it is not enough. There is nothing more to say, take action then. As long as it can let you vent your feelings, I will take it, I have let you down." As he said that, he crouched down in front of Crow, his arms covering his head in a submissive position as if accepting any hits.

This was the second step that Zhou Weiqing had taught him before Ma Qun had entered. Facing such an intelligent girl like Crow, any flowery language, tricks or lies would never work, and admitting his own wrong and apologising at the first possible time was the best way to be dealt with leniently. Since Zhou Weiqing's first step had actually worked so well, Ma Qun's confidence in him had been boosted.

Ever since Ma Qun had ran off, it could be said that Crow really hated this fellow. However, when his two metre tall figure was crouching down before her and allowing her to beat and scold him as she wished, her heart softened instead. He was such a huge fellow, and if she really beat him up, how could he face Zhou Weiqing in the future?

The Gold Crow Tribe members were extremely loyal and steadfast, especially in love too. Once she had been promised in marriage to Ma Qun, she had already considered herself as his, even though they had barely interacted a few times, but such an ingrained core value was not something easily changed. This also caused her to actually think for her man despite her massive anger.

As such, she held herself back and did not take action in the end, saying angrily: "Ma Qun, speak then, what do you want? If you do not want to marry me, then we will go back to our tribes to clear things up, and we can null the agreement. Hitting you would just dirty my hands."

Zen: I personally want to beat up Ma Qun! Crow is one of my fav chars!

Chapter 353: Torture Trick! (1)1

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"Null the agreement?" Ma Qun stood up suddenly, speaking agitatedly. "No, no way, definitely not." This time, it was not Zhou Weiqing's teaching him. Although he had found it hard to accept Crow's size, but to null a wedding agreement was not something he would do. Firstly, this was a serious matter which was not just personal, but to do with the relations between both their tribes. More importantly, he also knew that once a Gold Crow Tribe female had her marriage nulled, then it was a serious matter. The Tribe Rules of the Gold Crow Tribe was that no matter what the reason, a woman who had her marriage nulled was considered a disloyal woman. Not only would Crow no longer be able to remain the heir of the Gold Crow Tribe Chieftain, her life might even be in danger. Although Ma Qun did not think of himself as a good person, he could not possibly destroy a young woman's life like that! That was also the reason why he ran away previously instead of nulling the marriage agreement.

Crow looked at him coldly before saying: "Why not? Since you do not like me, I'll give you back your freedom."

Ma Qun shook his head, his heart thinking back to the third step that Zhou Weiqing had told him. Previously, he had still been a little hesitant, but now he knew he could no longer hesitate any longer.

"Crow, originally when I ran away, the mistake was mine. At that time, I did not think clearly, and I did not want to get married at all, and I hated the thought of being forced into one by the order of the tribes. However, since that time, I have already thought things through clearly; no matter you or me, we have a heavy weight on our shoulders, a responsibility. This has been more and more clear to me after entering the outside world, seeing how the human Heavenly Jewel Masters have such power, and I truly hate myself for my laziness and uselessness in the past. I am starting to work hard now, cultivate hard. In truth, I had already planned to complete my training first, at least to be at the same level as you before returning to look for you. No matter what… I need to be at least equal to my own woman…"

"Earlier, in that instant when I saw you, I was so ashamed that I could not face anyone, and was wishing that the very earth would swallow me up. I know that you Gold Crow Tribe members will not leave your home so easily, and I cannot think of another reason for you to be here besides looking for me. For a young lady like you to leave home alone and travel so far, I am really touched."

"To the mistake that I have made back then, I really do not know how to make it up to you. I just wish that I had the chance to understand you, to make it up to you, to love and cherish you…"

As he spoke up to this point, Ma Qun gave a sad, bitter smile, before continuing: "Of course, I know that one has to pay for their mistakes. If you do not want to give me that chance, I will understand it, but at least let me protect your name and purity, that is the best way for me to pay for my sins."

As he said that, Ma Qun lifted his right hand. No one knew when a short dagger had appeared in his hands, and without hesitation, he stabbed it down savagely towards the left portion of his chest.

The words that Ma Qun had spoken was truly from his heart, and the third step that Zhou Weiqing had taught him was called the Self-Torture Trick.

Zhou Weiqing had told him that if Crow did not hit him after entering the room, that meant she had some feelings for him. If that was so, he could make use of the Self-Torture Trick to make things up with her. However, whether or not he decided to use it would be up to him.

When Ma Qun had spoken those words to her, he was suddenly enveloped by a sense of sorrow and regret. Looking at the tearing Crow, his Self-Torture Trick suddenly morphed from an act to a reality. Zhou Weiqing had originally told him to stab down in the right side of his chest, as that would be a serious injury but not fatal. However, he had actually stabbed down on the left side, where the heart was.

To the Gold Crow Tribe, if a woman's husband passed away, that would not affect a woman's reputation, and she could remarry. In doing so now, Ma Qun was offering his own life as a price to redeem Crow's reputation.

"What are you doing?!" Seeing Ma Qun stab down unhesitatingly with his dagger, Crow's heart melted. Her hands lifted up swiftly, grabbing onto Ma Qun's wrists.

She was actually quite clear about Ma Qun's power, and as their hands met, Crow could instantly tell that he had stabbed down hard with all his might, and it was definitely not an act. Due to the amount of strength he used, even though she had caught onto his wrist on time, Ma Qun's dagger had still stabbed into the muscles of his chest, and blood flowed out immediately.

Crow quickly grabbed the dagger from his hands and flung it away, before quickly tending to his wounds. At that time, Ma Qun finally displayed his girl-chasing abilities, perhaps no weaker than Zhou Weiqing. Swiftly, he turned back and held Crow in his embrace with all his might, as if afraid she would run away.

With Ma Qun's raw physical strength, hugging a girl with all his might, perhaps only one like Crow would able to withstand it so easily without using any Heavenly Energy.

In the courtyard, Yun Li stood beside Zhou Weiqing and said softly: "That little rascal Ma Qun… will he be alright? That girl, she is definitely not one to be trifled with!" Previously, he had clearly seen Crow's battle prowess and her valiant actions when fighting against the black clad men. These few days, Crow had also broken through to the four-Jeweled stage, and adding on to her terrifying physical strength and her axes, she would definitely leave a deep impression on anyone.

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Heh heh, whether or not he is fine depends on how much of this great Don Juan's 2 legacy he has learned and mastered.

Yun Li gave a disdainful humph and said: "Don Juan my foot, you have ran back alone and lost your girlfriend instead…"

At the side, Lin TianAo looked at Zhou Weiqing with a surprised look. He suddenly sensed that the old, mischievous, rascally and perverted scoundrel, Zhou Weiqing, had somehow returned.

Zhou Weiqing and Lin TianAo had a rather strong understanding between each other, and seeing his eyes and look, Zhou Weiqing immediately smiled and said: "Although I was chased out today, I learned the best news I have heard in a long time. My Heavenly Bow Empire Royal Family has not been totally destroyed, and at least my father and the rest are still alive." As such, he described what he had heard from Cai Cai.

"Ten years. We still have a chance." Lin TianAo said solemnly after hearing him out.

Zhou Weiqing nodded. "Yes, we definitely have a chance. The next ten years will be the time for us to rise up. I will make them spit out everything that they have taken from me, ten times and more!"

Right at that moment, they suddenly heard Crow's startled cry from inside the room.

Yun Li's face changed. "What do we do now?"

Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, as if everything was in his grasp. "Everything is fine then, we do not need to care about them. This Ma Qun… his talent isn't too bad!" From Crow's startled cry and the worried tone, Zhou Weiqing could hear that the Self-Torture Trick had worked, and they were relatively okay.

Since the Self-Torture Trick had already worked what else was there to say? What was left was for Ma Qun handle, and that was not anything that anyone else could teach any longer.

*Peng* *Peng* *Peng* A knocking sound rang out from the door. Before Zhou Weiqing could speak, Little Four charged forward to pull open the door, while the rest of the team took on guarded positions. After all, none of them were clear who the previous black clad men were. If the Fei Li Empire was actually taking action against Zhou Weiqing, then none of them would have any chance of escaping.

There were more than ten people standing outside, with Zang Lang standing at their head. Besides him, Zhou Weiqing also recognized a few others, including that bald headed bro of his. However, their actual number was lesser than what Zang Lang had told him previously. Including Zang Lang himself, there were only a dozen standing there.

Seeing so many people in the courtyard, Zang Lang gave a small sound of surprise before leading his fellow brothers inside.

"Boss Zhou, we have come." Zang Lang walked all the way to Zhou Weiqing before stopping, saying in an abashed tone: "Originally, there were a few more of us. However, when some of them heard about you being chased out of the Academy…"

Zhou Weiqing smiled passively, saying: "I understand. For you to be able to bring so many people, I am already very pleasantly surprised."

Zang Lang took a deep breath. He did not know why, but in front of Zhou Weiqing, he always felt a unique pressure. "… Boss Zhou, we are after all here to be your Lifetime Follower. Besides me, the rest of them are all Physical Jewel Masters. To be able to Follow a talented Consolidating Equipment Master is our honour and luck. However, there are so many of us, and we are a little worried whether or not you are able to help us all with Consolidating Equipment Masters. In your opinion…"

After all, it was a Lifetime Following, and one that required a Darkness Seal's restriction. Zang Lang had to be responsible for those brothers who had followed him. When he said those words, he did not dare look into Zhou Weiqing's eyes. Honestly speaking, when Zhou Weiqing was forced to leave the Academy this time, Zang Lang had been extremely hesitant about his decision to Follow him. However, the draw of a talented Consolidating Equipment Master was just too great, especially one so young like Zhou Weiqing.

However, when he finally reached here and saw so many people in the courtyard, he started to worry whether or not he and his brothers be able to actually gain Zhou Weiqing's support on Consolidating Equipment Scrolls.

At the side, Yun Li couldn't help but say exasperatedly: "He alone might not be able to do so, but with my help, how can it not be possible?"

Previously, Zang Lang had been too nervous, and did not notice the nearby Yun Li. At this point, spotting him here, he couldn't help but start in surprise. "Teacher Li, you are here too?"

Ever since Yun Li entered the Fei Li Royal Family Military Academy, he had always been rather proud and arrogant, and not all the students could be easily taught by him. In fact, he had only given the Commoner Class One a bit of teachings.

Yun Li glanced at Zhou Weiqing momentarily before saying passively: "He is my boss. Since he is here, I am naturally here as well. Did you really think his Followers would just be the mere few of you?"

Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly and said: "With an additional High Level Consolidating Equipment Master, you should at least feel better and set your mind at ease right."

Before Zang Lang could nod in agreement, Yun Li had already interrupted in a dissatisfied tone. "What High Level Consolidating Equipment Master. My dear boss, I have already reached the Grandmaster stage!"

It was Zhou Weiqing's turn to be startled. "So fast?!"

Yun Li said airily: "Originally, I was already about to breakthrough to the Grandmaster stage, and after competing with you and exchanging notes and learning, these few days I have been working extremely hard, and I have finally broken through successfully. A Grandmaster Consolidating Equipment Master before the age of thirty, have you seen that before? Haha, I will definitely reach the stage of God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master before you, and at that time, who knows, maybe you will be the one who wants to be my Follower. 3

Zhou Weiqing looked at him for a moment, then suddenly said seriously: "Yun Li, I think that when someone is too full of himself, it is not good for their cultivation; in fact it is not good at all. As such, I have decided to help you out and knock you off your pedestal. Little Miss Muddle."

Chapter 354: Torture Trick! (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"Big brother Little Fatty, what is it?" Dou Dou skipped around to Zhou Weiqing's side.

As if performing magic, a chicken drumstick appeared in Zhou Weiqing's hands. "Create a good Consolidating Equipment Scroll for this big brother here to see, then you can eat this delicious chicken drumstick."

"Okay! Okay!" Seeing something to eat, Dou Dou's eyes lit up. Before anyone could see her move, a Consolidating Equipment Paper floated into the air.

As the paper floated in the air, in the next moment… Abruptly, four different coloured rays of light shone forth, and the others could see that four Consolidated Equipment Brushes had appeared out of nowhere into her hands, with each hand holding two. Waving them in a rapid fashion, the brushes seemed to fly around up and down. It was as if all the coloured lights were focused and imprinted onto the Consolidating Equipment Paper.

It took barely the time for them to take three breaths, and all of a sudden, a bright flash of gold light shone, and the Consolidating Equipment Paper flew towards Yun Li. The four brushes in Little Miss Muddle's hands disappeared, and the chicken drumstick in Zhou Weiqing's hands moments ago appeared in hers instead.

When the Consolidating Equipment Scroll fell into Yun Li's hands, he could only stare foolishly at it, stunned totally. After a while, he muttered to himself: "No design… Consolidating in mid air… This… this is a top Grandmaster Consolidating Equipment Scroll!"

No matter designless creation or Consolidating in mid air, these were all top level Skills for Consolidating Equipment Masters, and more so, only those with legacies passed down would be able to learn it. Yun Li also knew in theory how to learn them, after all he did have a legacy as well. However, he was extremely far from either step, and he knew that even after he reached the Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Master, perhaps he might still not be able to learn them.

Although he had already reached the Grandmaster Stage, at his level it was still not easy for him to create any Grandmaster Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, with his success rate being extremely low. Even in the near foreseeable future, working hard, he might not reach such a state like this young lady in front him, to be able to create that scroll so easily.

Previously, he had still been bragging to Zhou Weiqing about being a Grandmaster Consolidating Equipment Master before the age of thirty, but this young lady in front of him was also a Grandmaster… one that was many times better than he was… and she looked barely twenty years old!

In that instant, Yun Li was totally shocked.

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Heh heh, Dou Dou is also not yet thirty, and she is already reaching the Zong Stage very soon! Yun Li, pride is good, but too much of it or arrogance would cause one to regress. You need to work harder!"

In truth, Zhou Weiqing himself had been given a rude shock. He had not known how terrifying Dou Dou's Consolidating Equipment Master abilities truly were. It was only because he had seen her seven-Jewels before, so he had a slightly better preparation in his heart than Yun Li.

Besides Yun Li, Zang Lang and his dozen were also standing there, jaw dropped and fully stunned. Three Consolidating Equipment Masters… it was actually three! Each scarier than the other, with one actually almost reaching the Zong Stage! Although Zhou Weiqing did not give them any actual promise, but in just this tiny courtyard, there were already three Consolidating Equipment Masters, with one almost at the Zong Stage! What better promise, what better guarantee was there?

After all, in the entire Boundless Mainland, Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Masters were already of utmost honour and of grand status. To raise one's level of Consolidating Equipment Master skill, each level was several times more difficult than just raising a level of Heavenly Jewel Master.

Although Zang Lang had already looked very highly upon Zhou Weiqing, otherwise he would not have made the decision to become his follower, he truly had not expected that even this proud and talented Teacher Yun would also be Zhou Weiqing's Follower! Not to mention, there was even another Consolidating Equipment Master who was far above even Teacher Yun!

Without any further hesitation, Zang Lang knelt down on one knee, and the other eleven who had followed also followed suit quickly.

Solemnly, Zang Lang said: "Boss Zhou, please give us the Sealing then. I, Zang Lang, am willing to be your Lifetime Follower."

Zhou Weiqing waved his hands and said: "No need, you all get up."

Zang Lang thought that his questioning and suspicions earlier had angered Zhou Weiqing, and he immediately said urgently: "Boss Zhou, I was not suspecting you, it is just that there are so many of us, so I…"

Zhou Weiqing laughed slightly, shaking his head gently with a faint smile on his face. Beside him, Lin TianAo stomped hard on the ground with his right foot, and immediately, a powerful vibration was sent through the earth, reverberating all the way through to force the kneeling twelve to their feets. In front of Lin TianAo, Zang Lang and the rest were just no match for him.

Looking at their dejected faces, Zhou Weiqing did not pause too long, saying: "Zang Lang, and these other brothers. For you all to have come even knowing my situation, and knowing how I have been chased out by the Academy, that has already proven many things. I am overjoyed that you all are willing to be my Followers, and though Seals may be a good restriction, I have already thought things through. What I need is not a bunch of soldiers or ordinary men, but a band of brothers beside me."

"From today onwards, you are all brothers to me, Zhou Weiqing. I do not need to Seal you all. If one day, any of you feel I am no longer worthy of being Followed, you can leave at any time."

Making such a decision was not difficult for Zhou Weiqing. Although not a long time had passed, he was no longer the same young man who had first stepped into the Fei Li Military Academy.

Confidence rose from power, and it was exactly because of this confidence in himself, that he could deal with anything that came at him, to gain their loyalty without using the Seals. As such, he did not want to use Seals to restrict these men who would be fighting beside his side, his brothers in arm.

Hearing the words 'brothers', Zang Lang and the other eleven graduates who had come with him started. They had never dreamed that something like this would happen. Amongst them, some of the more sensitive ones had worried look in their faces.

Naturally, Zhou Weiqing could tell what they were worried about, and with a faint smile, he said: "You do not have to worry that I will not treat you the same without Seals. Everyone here are my brothers, and none will have a Seal as well."

As he said that, Zhou Weiqing suddenly struck out with his palm onto Yun Li's forehead.

With Yun Li's cultivation level and power, being ambushed with a sneak attack suddenly, he would normally react instinctively. However, he abruptly realised that he had no chance of dodging that blow. In the first place, he had never expected that Zhou Weiqing would attack him, and more so, as Zhou Weiqing struck down with the palm, the Fetters of Wind had already been unleashed on Yun Li.

Currently, Zhou Weiqing had already almost caught up to Yun Li's cultivation level, and they were both at the four-Jeweled stage. A highly rated Control Skill like the Fetters of Wind was not so easily broken free off for those of equal levels. Furthermore, Zhou Weiqing only needed a split second in order to complete his strike.

A dark red flash of light appeared around Yun Li's forehead, and the symbol for the Blood Rites – Seal of Darkness flickered momentarily, and was wiped away… forever.

"Weiqing… you…" Yun Li stared at him blankly.

Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Lying is not good after all! You are the only one in the entire place who has been Sealed… Now that I have removed it, I am indeed no longer lying. What… are you not willing to be my brother, and would rather be my Follower instead?"

Yun Li gave a humph, saying recalcitrantly: "Without the Seal, I'm leaving now." Although he said that, but his legs did not move at all, as he looked at Zhou Weiqing with a strange look in his eyes.

Lin TianAo stood at the side, smiling faintly as he looked at Zhou Weiqing's actions, nodding inwardly. Zhou Weiqing's leadership, charisma and stage was already growing higher and higher. When he did these things, the charm and charisma that he unconsciously revealed… even an older, more experienced man like Lin TianAo was subconsciously affected.

Let alone those of the same age as Zhou Weiqing.

With a *Putong* sound, Zang Lang knelt down before Zhou Weiqing once more, a fire in his eyes as emotion filled him. Agitatedly, he said: "We are brothers indeed, but also loyal men who will die for you!"

These words were spoken resolutely and decisively. In the Academy, many of the nobles had dreamt and planned on how to make use of them, how to enslave them. Even though they were Jewel Masters, even Heavenly Jewel masters, but those nobles had never treated like brothers, at most like high class servants to be used well. All that Zhou Weiqing had done was using his actions alone. He did not give any promises or some pretty words, just speaking passively and calmly, but Zang Lang's inner heart was just boiling.

The other eleven were almost in the same state, but they did not know how to express their feelings. With Zang Lang in the lead, they all followed suit instantly, kneeling down, this time on both knees. "Brothers… and loyal soldiers!"

This time, Lin TianAo did not take action to force them to their feet, and Zhou Weiqing personally supported them up to their feet one by one. He knew that he finally had his own group of men.

Lifting his head to look at the sky, it was already past noon, and Zhou Weiqing said solemnly: "I guess it is time for us to leave. We cannot stay long in the Fei Li City anymore."

After saying that, he turned towards the room that Ma Qun and Crow were in and yelled out loud: "Are you all done yet?"

The door finally opened, and as Crow and Ma Qun walked out, all the Fei Li Battle Team members, even Lin TianAo, widened their eyes so much so that they almost popped out, and they could feel jaws drop.

Crow had always been valiant, forthright and well, not too feminine. Yet now, she was like a little bird, snuggling up in Ma Qun's arms, who was holding on to her shoulders with a big loopy grin on his face, a content expression on his face and gentle look in his eyes as he looked at her.

Drunken Bao swallowed hard, whispering to Little Four beside him: "Am I seeing things? Is that still our Crow, the one who chops down enemies faster than anyone else?"

Little Four muttered: "I do not know… I do not know… However, I can say that only this bro's figure can match up to her…"

Zhou Weiqing smiled. Looking at Crow and Ma Qun, how could he not know that the two of them had made up. "The two of you, stop showing off your intimacy. Are you following us, or staying back?"

Ma Qun grinned and said: "Go, of course we'll go. Crow will also be going along with us. As the saying goes, when the husband sings, the wife will be the accompanying harmony1. Without forging a name for myself, how could I have face to go home. I do not want to be beaten to death by my dad. Crow has already forgiven me for running away from the marriage, but I have not forgiven myself yet. I must prove myself to be worthy of her before I return, and only then will we be married."

Chapter 355: Torture Trick! (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Zhou Weiqing said playfully: "You can do it! There is a vast gap between you and Crow now, and you better not make her wait for you and delay her own cultivating and power gain."

Ma Qun said angrily: "Boss, how can you look at me like that! Am I not working hard? My talent is also very outstanding!"

Zhou Weiqing walked over to Lin TianAo, clapping on the shoulders and looked to Ma Qun before saying: "Actions speak louder than words. In the future, Bro Lin will be your teacher, learn well from him. He will teach you how to make use of your ultimate defense to the maximum… Alright, brothers, let us head off!"

As soon as he said that, they took action. The black clad men's attacks had given Zhou Weiqing a severe warning. Although he was confident in his own abilities, he knew he was still at the four-Jeweled cultivation level. Amongst all of them, the one with the highest cultivation level was actually Little Miss Muddle Dou Dou. If one or two nine-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters came over to kill them, they would not be able to do anything. A small numeric advantage was useless against absolute power.

Zhou Weiqing, Lin TianAo, Ma Qun, Crow, Yun Li, Little Four, Xiao Yan, Drunken Bao; eight of them, in addition to Zang Lang's twelve men, they were a party of twenty in total. If twenty of them were to move out together, it would draw too much attention. As such, after a quick discussion, they split into four groups, with five people in each group, and they would leave from different directions and times.

After all, the first attack against Zhou Weiqing had just barely ended, and it would be some time before they were discovered to have lost. Even if they had truly been sent by the Fei Li Empire, as long as they did not seal the gates, there should not be another attack in the near future.

After about two hours, the twenty of them finally regrouped outside the Fei Li City. They had not purchased mounts, and were all on foot. Now that they had gathered, they started heading towards the east under the leadership of Zhou Weiqing.

As they hurried along, Lin TianAo moved along beside Zhou Weiqing, and he asked: "Weiqing, where are you planning to go? Are you not heading back to the Heavenly Bow Empire?"

Zhou Weiqing said: "We only number twenty, and even if we return to the Heavenly Bow Empire, we will not be able to do anything. It would be like an egg striking a rock. My father has already managed to fight for and give me ten years to work with. In this ten years, I need to gather enough power to shake the Bai Da Empire. Even if it isn't enough to defeat them, at least I need to be able to save my father and others. The Fei Li Empire has already taken notice of me, and staying here is useless. As such, I need to find a place where I can gather strength, to build up a troop of my own."

Lin TianAo thought about it for a moment, then said: "So, where are we going?"

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "War might not be a good thing, but it is also the place with the best opportunities. In battle, we will be able to better improve ourselves. My original plan had been to join the Fei Li Empire's army and fight in the northern border. However, now that they view me as a threat, I can only change my plan a little. Instead, I have decided to head to the northern border of the ZhongTian Empire to join the army, to find a relatively desolate area to grow my strength."

Lin TianAo nodded and said: "Very good, we'll follow your arrangements then. We'll take it a step at the time."

Joining the army, battling hard against enemies was every young man's dream, and no one protested Zhou Weiqing's arrangements.

Just as they were about fifty li from the Fei Li City, all of a sudden, a black shadowy figure dropped down from the trees ahead, smashing down onto the road right ahead of them.

Almost subconsciously, Lin TianAo and the others moved in front of Zhou Weiqing. Although he did not release his Assembly Set Shield, he looked on with a guarded look upon his face. The rest of the Fei Li Battle Team members also took their positions near Zhou Weiqing. As for Zang Lang and the others, although their cultivation levels were not very high, they were after all top graduates from their commoner class of the Fei Li Military ACademy, otherwise they wouldn't have fought against working for the nobles. In that moment, the twelve of them spread apart in a crescent shape, in a formation that would allow them to protect the rest while also maintaining their own offense.

It was only at this point that all of them finally saw that what had smashed onto the ground was actually a corpse… dressed in black. His neck seemed to have been snapped, and there was not much blood around, but there was clearly no signs of life any longer.

"Come out." Zhou Weiqing looked to the trees with piercing eyes. His Dragon Silencing Seals had already been fully used today, and if they met with any powerful foes, that would be troublesome.

*Swoosh* A beautiful figure appeared silently at the front, and when Zhou Weiqing saw her face, he was totally shocked. "What… why is it you?" His expression turned ugly in that instant.

That person pursed her lips, saying: "Why can't it be me? What sort of expression is that? I took the trouble to kill off the scout following you, and not only did you not thank me, you are still giving me that look?"

At Zhou Weiqing's side, Yun Li looked at them curiously, and asked: "Weiqing, isn't this Lady Bing'er?"

Indeed, in Yun Li's eyes, wasn't it Shangguan Bing'er standing right in front of them? However, after all his experiences, Zhou Weiqing would definitely not recognize the wrong person, because around that 'Shangguan Bing'er's' right wrist was a dark gold bracer-claw. Amongst the three Shangguan Sisters, Zhou Weiqing had only seen Shangguan Fei'er have a Consolidated Equipment like that. Of course, he did not know if Shangguan Xue'er also had a Consolidated Equipment like that, but he was definitely sure than she would not be so bored or senseless as to run all the way over here to just help them kill a spy.

Zhou Weiqing was speechless for a moment. "That is not Bing'er, it is her sister, Shangguan Fei'er. Why are you here?" He looked at this young girl who looked like the one he loved so much, a slight hint of wariness in his expression as he dared not let his guard down. After all, he had experienced first hand how powerful Shangguan Fei'er's close combat abilities were. In fact, with both sides in top condition, even if he used the Dragon Silencing Seal, he might not be able to defeat her, as her close combat fighting capabilities was just too terrifying.

Shangguan Fei'er laughed lightly, walking towards Zhou Weiqing, and on seeing that she was known to him, Zang Lang and the others backed away to the side. The Fei Li Battle Team members clearly knew the tangled relationship between him and the three Shangguan Sisters, and they also moved aside while suppressing laughs.

Shangguan Fei'er walked all the way to Zhou Weiqing before stopping, saying grandly: "I am here on behalf of Third Sister."

Zhou Weiqing started a little. "Bing'er asked you to come? What for? Could it be… Bing'er asked you to marry me as well, to be her substitute for this period of time, to wait upon me?"

This young rascal always managed to trash talk while keeping a straight, serious face. Such a skill had to be learnt over years of practice...

Shangguan Fei'er's beautiful cheeks turned red, but she refused to back down so easily. "Wait upon you? Hmph, more like you wait upon me. I'm your sister in law after all, quick, call me big sister. I am here to help Bing'er keep an eye and monitor you, lest you be unfaithful to her and let her down!"

"Bullshit, Your Father I still need you to monitor me? Shoo Shoo, if you want me to call you Big Sis, you can wait until Bing'er actually marries me then I'll think about it." Zhou Weiqing said exasperatedly.

Shangguan Fei'er gave a cold humph and said: "Fine, I can leave, but when I go back, I'll tell Bing'er that you have cheated on her, and fallen for that Heavenly Demon Sect Little Witch. Ohh and that Heavenly Snow Mountain's Tian'er, that Divine Heavenly Spirit Tiger. Ahhh… Siighhh… My poor little sister, so foolish of her… having a sneaky third party right beside her as a tiger without her knowing it! Hmph, I will definitely tell her everything and show her your true colours. Zhou Little Fatty, you're dead meat!"

After saying that, she turned around and left, but after doing so and with her back to Zhou Weiqing, a mischievous look flashed across her face. Indeed, Shangguan Fei'er was not called the Little Demon Girl of the Heaven's Expanse Palace for nothing.

Zhou Weiqing stared at her with his jaw agape. If anyone else were to tell tales and try to sow discord between him and Shangguan Bing'er, he would scoff at the thought, as no matter what, he trusted that Bing'er would believe him. However, this Shangguan Fei'er was a tricky one indeed, and she was also Bing'er's own sister. She had after all taken the trouble to follow him all the way, and if she returned to say that to Bing'er, wouldn't Bing'er be hurt? From what Zhou Weiqing knew of Shangguan Fei'er, she would definitely do as she said.

"Wait!" Zhou Weiqing quickly stepped forward, grabbing hold of her shoulder.

Shangguan Fei'er did not struggle out of his grasp, instead turning her head to look at him. "Why are you grabbing on to me?" As she said that, she somehow remembered that scene where she had lost her first kiss to Zhou Weiqing, and gritted her teeth in sudden remembered anger, her tone turning accusatory.

Zhou Weiqing could sense the accusatory tone, and immediately thought that Shangguan Fei'er was really going back to sow discord. Instantly, he put on a smiling face and said sweetly: "Big sis…"

Shangguan Fei'er shuddered involuntarily, looking at him strangely. "Alright, enough. I'm getting goose pimples all over. Can you even act better?"

Zhou Weiqing gave an apologetic smile and said: "Big sis, I'm wrong. I was such a bastard just now, it was because I was in a bad mood from what I suffered in the Fei Li City… As you can see for yourself, I'm all alone right now, no Little Witch or Tian'er with me ah! I'm wrong, I'm wrong, if you wish to stay and monitor me, please do so. I am happy to use my actions to prove how outstanding I am, that I am worthy of Bing'er."

Seeing this different Zhou Weiqing, with his obsequious apologetic smile, almost fawning on her, Shangguan Fei'er started momentarily, thinking to herself: What kind of person is he really?

Originally, when Shangguan Fei'er had her first kiss stolen from Zhou Weiqing, she hated him so much that she wanted to kill him. She did not have the overall view of the situation like Shangguan Xue'er, or her control, and so she had done all she could to sneak into the ZhongTian Battle Team in an attempt to cause trouble for Zhou Weiqing.

In the Lustre Spatial Realm, when she had fought with Zhou Weiqing and Little Witch, Shangguan Fei'er had been extremely vexed to have lost to the two of them. However, it was what happened next that had been deeply ingrained into her heart, and had also totally turned her view of Zhou Weiqing upside down.

Shangguan Fei'er would never forget the resolute figure of Zhou Weiqing standing protectively before the mother dragon and her egg, and how he had spoken so righteously and boldly. It was as if she was looking at a totally different person. Was that still the man who stole her first kiss?!

Chapter 356: Joining! Shangguan Fei'er! (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

In that instant, all that pent up anger that Shangguan Fei'er had towards Zhou Weiqing for stealing her first kiss had dissipated. She also forgot for a moment that she was part of the ZhongTian Battle Team, and should be thinking for them.

This was truly a man who was responsible and accountable; a man who was willing to stand up for his own ideals, no matter the cost. Perhaps, some might think of him doing such a thing at such a time as being foolish, to help the WanShou Battle Team against the ZhongTian and Bao Po Battle Teams. However, Shangguan Fei'er did not think the same. Her character was already a rather rebellious one, coupled with a rather mischievous and eccentric nature. Deep inside, she appreciated a man like Zhou Weiqing who was confident, daring, and so resolute in his actions. Furthermore, he was the one who had stolen her first kiss.

That time, Zhou Weiqing had planted a tiny seed in her heart, so much so that after leaving the Lustre Spatial Realm, she had actually pled on his behalf to her father and uncle. That was also one of the reasons why the Heaven's Expanse Palace had been treated him so well after that incident.

After which, Zhou Weiqing had gotten the bad news from home and led the Fei Li Battle Team back. Shangguan Fei'er had originally been confined for a period of time as punishment, but she was after all rather favoured in the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and that did not last long. After Zhou Weiqing and the rest had left, she had snuck out and followed them, learning from Tian'er as she ran away from home. With her cultivation level, it had been easy for her to follow them without being discovered.

When Zhou Weiqing had been ambushed in his own home, Shangguan Fei'er had been prepared to take action. However, she held back to see how Zhou Weiqing had grown, and had definitely been surprised.

She had seen Zhou Weiqing, at a mere four-Jeweled stage, able to take on eight Upper Level Zun Stage Masters and above. That decisiveness. The savage viciousness. His sheer power and intelligence.

Just by himself, he had finished off four out of his eight enemies, and in the end, with the Dragon Silencing Seal, had allowed his friends to finish off the other four easily.

Although Shangguan Fei'er was also confident in taking on these eight without problems, but even she would not be able to do so without injury. More so, in a eight versus one situation, she would not be able to guarantee that she would be able to finish them all off without some escaping.

Yet… the worst thing about the comparison was that… she was after all a genius level Heavenly Jewel Master from a Great Saint Lands! Although Shangguan Fei'er was rather playful normally, she was still extremely diligent in terms of training and cultivation. She was still slightly behind Shangguan Xue'er, but that was in part because of the sheer power of the Boundless Infinitum Set. In fact, Shangguan Fei'er's Heavenly Energy cultivation level was already at the 26th level, not too far from the seven-Jeweled stage's 28th level. Even so, she knew that when she was at the four-Jeweled stage, she would have not been a match for the current Zhou Weiqing.

What did that all mean? It meant the difference in sheer talent. Indeed, it was a difference in innate, inborn talent. Zhou Weiqing's talent was just too terrifying, defying even the heavens. Although she did not know that it originated from the black pearl of the Dark Demon God Tiger, it was enough to pique her interest in Zhou Weiqing.

As such, Shangguan Fei'er decided to follow Zhou Weiqing to the outside world to have fun and enjoy herself. Earlier, she had noticed that she was not the only one following them, and she had taken out the spy. By then, she was unwilling to continue hiding any longer, and showed herself.

Shangguan Fei'er eyed Zhou Weiqing for a moment before saying self righteously: "I will definitely keep an eye on you and monitor your actions. If you dare do anything that lets down Bing'er, I will not let you off."

Looking at Shangguan Fei'er, Zhou Weiqing felt a headache encroaching. He would rather interact with Shangguan Xue'er than this mischievous young lady in front of him. She was from the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and if she continued following along, how could he keep any secrets? Especially so with what he was planning to do ahead. If it were Shangguan Xue'er, she would just be an icy exterior, but this young lady was different. From how she was willing to sneak into the Lustre Spatial Realm to deal with him, one could tell how problematic she would be.

Alas, he could do nothing about it, and Zhou Weiqing said helplessly: "In that case, let's head off already."

Once again, they moved out and continued on, and it was only then that Zhou Weiqing finally knew what torture was. Shangguan Fei'er had almost never left the Heavenly Jewel Island, and even when she had, it was to the ZhongTian City. This was her first time leaving home for such a distance. Previously, since she had been following Zhou Weiqing secretly, and did not have time to look around at her surroundings too much, but now that she could take her time, her curious eyes did not stop. Every time she saw something new and interesting, she asked Zhou Weiqing about it, chattering non stop.

Originally, Zhou Weiqing had been intending to fully polish his plan for their upcoming activities on the trip, but being pestered by her non stop, he was unable to do so. Alas, he was unable to offend her, and no one else seemed to want to help him out, instead sniggering secretly at the side.

This time, their trip took almost half a month, and by the time Zhou Weiqing finally started getting used to having a ever-questioning Shangguan Fei'er beside him, they were already deep in the ZhongTian Empire territory, heading to their northern border.

The twenty one of them continued along their way, pausing momentarily at a crossroads. Zhou Weiqing spread out a map of the area, while the others stood around him. The map had been purchased on their way here, one of the most detailed ones they could find, costing them more than ten gold coins in total, made of goat leathers and was extremely durable, while it was also detailed and accurate.

In terms of cultivation and power levels, the Heavenly Jewel Masters of the Fei Li Battle Team were undoubtedly miles ahead. But in terms of reading maps, strategizing and large scale combat, they paled in comparison to Zang Lang and the other graduates of the Fei Li Military Academy.

Zang Lang stood by Zhou Weiqing's side, looking through the map together with him. Pointing at the crossroads ahead, he said: "Both the roads in front can lead to the ZhongTian northern border, the one of the left is much shorter distance, at least three to four days worth of less travel, but it passes through an area called the Ghost Demon Forest. If we take it, we should reach the north border within five days, if we do not run into any trouble. The road on the left is winding and complicated, but they are all official roads that will be much easier and safer to traverse."

"According to the symbols on the map, the Ghost Demon Forest is full of Heavenly Beasts. To be safe, I recommend that we take the right path, though it might take a slightly longer time, but it is a smoother route. If we rush along, we might at most take 2 more days than if we took the left road."

"Take the left, take the left!" Shangguan Fei'er jumped up excitedly. How could she be afraid of Heavenly Beasts, and with her mischievous nature of wanting to stir trouble, she would definitely chose the more 'exciting' route.

Lin TianAo furrowed his brow and said: "However, we do not know what kind of Heavenly Beasts live in that Ghost Demon Forest." In truth, with the strength of their party, as long as they did not meet any Heavenly King Stage Heavenly Beasts or higher, they should not have any problems. If they truly wanted to move as fast as possible, then the left road would undoubtedly be more worthwhile. Although Zhou Weiqing did not say anything, Lin TianAo knew for sure that he was definitely hoping to reach their destination as soon as possible, to start his plan quickly. After all, they were on a limited time table, and ten years might sound like a long time, but facing the odds that they did, it was truly unbelievably short.

As such, all of them turned to focus on Zhou Weiqing. He would be the one to make the final decision, and all the rest waited for him.

If it were only him and the Fei Li Battle Team, Zhou Weiqing would have chosen to take the left road without hesitation, cutting straight through the Ghost Demon Forest. In doing so, not only would they save time, they could also possibly earn from any Heavenly Beasts they killed on the way.

However, things were different now, as they had Zang Lang and the other eleven members. Amongst the twelve of them, besides Zang Lang, a three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, the rest were all only Physical Jewel Masters, at most at the three to four Jeweled stage.

In terms of cultivation level, a three or four Jeweled Physical Jewel Master could not be compared to a Heavenly Jewel Master. Not only in terms of having Elemental Jewels, but even their cultivation levels – after all, a Heavenly Jewel Master needed four levels of Heavenly Energy to gain a Jewel, but ordinary Jewel Masters only needed three. That was to say, just in terms of cultivation level alone, none of them were even as high as Zhou Weiqing! If they met with any powerful Heavenly Beasts, especially those who were skilled in sneak attacks or ambushes, Zhou Weiqing could not guarantee that they could pass through without death or injuries.

The reason why Zhou Weiqing placed such importance on them was not because of their combat abilities, but because of their outstanding talent and training in military affairs. For those commoners to be able to enter the Fei Li Military Academy, besides those like Ma Qun who totally depended on the status of a Heavenly Jewel Master, each of them were extremely talented in their own way! The twelve of them was tantamount to having twelve commanders or advisors of his army, and they were all extremely precious to Zhou Weiqing, possibly of great use in the future. Zhou Weiqing would definitely not want them to perish in any useless way.

After thinking about it for a while, Zhou Weiqing finally suppressed his desire to go through the Ghost Demon Forest. Solemnly, he said: "Alright, we'll do as Zang Lang suggested. We will take the right path, if we pick up the pace, we shouldn't be delayed too much."

"Oei, you aren't such a coward are you." Shangguan Fei'er said exasperatedly.

Zhou Weiqing eyed her for a moment, then said: "You might be extremely powerful personally, but not everyone is. All of us here are my brothers, and I have to be responsible for everyone's lives. They have chosen to follow me, how could I let them endanger themselves unnecessarily for nothing?"

When he said that, those seniors of his from the Fei Li Military Academy all showed looks of gratitude on their faces. If he had chosen to go via the Ghost Demon Forest, none of them would have backed down, but they would definitely feel fear in their hearts. After all, in terms of actual combat, they did not have much experience and were not well versed in that.

Shangguan Fei'er pursed her lips disdainfully, saying: "What danger can there be? Don't you know, our ZhongTian Empire does not have any really powerful Heavenly Beasts?"

"En?" Zhou Weiqing looked at her curiously. Shangguan Fei'er was the little princess of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and naturally she would know much more about the situation within the ZhongTian Empire than outsiders like the rest of them.

Shangguan Fei'er said: "Within the Boundless Mainland, most, if not all, of the powerful Heavenly Beasts are in the WanShou Empire lands. As for the other Empires, it is extremely difficult to find any Heavenly Beasts at the Heavenly King Stage or higher. Those powerful Heavenly Beasts you saw in the Heavenly Jewel Island are mostly captured by those ancestors of ours from within the WanShou Empire. Although I do not know why that is so, I am certain that within our ZhongTian Empire, the strongest Heavenly Beasts should only be at the Upper Level Zong Stage or so. With all of us, as long as we are careful, the Ghost Demon Forest should not be a problem to us! After all, as long as we do not meet any Heavenly King Stage beasts, we have no need to fear!"

Chapter 357: Joining! Shangguan Fei'er! (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"Furthermore, I have heard of this Ghost Demon Forest. The reason for its name is actually because it is home to a very unique Heavenly Beast, known as the Ghost Demon Horse. It is a social Heavenly Beast that lives together in a large group, and are generally at the lower level Zun Stage. Although this Heavenly Beast's cultivation level is not considered low or high individually, it is one of the easiest to tame. In fact, I actually have the taming method for them. If we manage to catch some Ghost Demon Horses as our mounts, we can probably reach the northern border of the empire within three days."

"These Ghost Demon Horses have superb endurance, and they are best at charging, especially with their powerful physiques. In fact, within our ZhongTian Empire northern armies, we have a specialised Legion called the Ghost Demon Heavy Cavalry Legion 1. It is only this Legion that is able to fight against the WanShou Empire armies with equal numbers, and it is the credit of the Ghost Demon Horses. However, their Ghost Demon Horses are all bred and raised in human captivity, and are no match for those which grow and live in the wild."

Hearing Shangguan Fei'er's words, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but feel his heart palpitate in excitement. If each of them could have a Zun Stage Heavenly Beast mount, not only would their overall strength and power increase, their mobility and speed would greatly benefit as well. This was especially so in the future on the battlefield, where a good mount was of utmost importance to a general.

"Are these Ghost Demon Horses easy to catch?" Zhou Weiqing asked.

Seeing that he was tempted, Shangguan Fei'er grinned to herself inwardly before saying: "It should be alright… it isn't exactly easy, but should not be too hard for us. They do not have any ranged attacks, and the main reason why they are rated as low level Zun Stage is actually because of their bodies and physiques. On their bodies, they have a layer of black scales covering every part of them, easily able to defend against a powerful crossbow bolt. In addition to their speed, endurance and sheer strength and carrying load, they can be said to be the best horse-type mounts in the entire mainland."

Zhou Weiqing hesitated, looking towards Zang Lang and the others, his brow furrowed.

By now, the others already knew who Shangguan Fei'er was and her status; and for someone like her from the Heaven's Expanse Palace to praise these Ghost Demon Horses so much, one could definitely imagine how suitable these Heavenly Beasts were as steeds. In that moment, all of them were revealing looks of excitement on their faces.

Lin TianAo said to Zhou Weiqing: "Weiqing, if there really isn't any Heavenly King Stage beasts and higher, it might be worth the risk for us."

Zhou Weiqing nodded slowly. He knew that he actually had an advantage to this as well, when in the Demonic Change State he was able to give forth the aura of the Dark Demon God Tiger, and those Heavenly Beasts which weren't far above him would submit to that presence. Furthermore, with his current cultivation level and the second evolving he had gone through, it would not be to difficult for him to put awe into low level Zun Stage Heavenly Beasts.

After some more thought, Zhou Weiqing finally made his decision, saying: "In that case, we will go through the Ghost Demon Forest. However, we will need to move in a formation. Big bro, you will be in front, and be in charge of the direct defense. Fei'er, you will remain at the back of the party, and be the main defense at the back. Yun Li, you will remain our mobile force, and whichever side requires help, you can judge for yourself to lend aid."

Lin TianAo nodded, and Shangguan Fei'er grinned excitedly. "Do not worry, with me around, anyone or anything that tries to ambush us from behind, I will take care of them!"

Zhou Weiqing ignored her, continuing: "Crow, you will be on our left flank. Drunken Bao, on our right flank. The rest of us will be in the center. Little Four, you will be in charge of scouting and relaying information. Xiao Yan, you and I will be in the direct center to provide ranged firepower. Zang Lang, you and the other brothers will surround myself and Xiao Yan. When we meet any enemies, do not engage at all without my command, understand?"

Zang Lang agreed respectfully.

Ma Qun sidled over huffily: "What about me, Boss?"

Zhou Weiqing glanced at him and said: "You remain together with Crow."

Ma Qun gave a vexed look as he said: "Boss, you're not trying to have her protect me right. I'm quite strong now…" These past few days on the road, he had indeed learned much from Lin TianAo. Of course, his current cultivation level was still low, especially since Zhou Weiqing and the rest had not managed to find time to create Consolidating Equipment Shields for him yet. As such, in terms of cultivation level, he was still below Zang Lang; even with the advantage of his physique and his ultimate Attributes, he would at most be at equal level as Zang Lang."

"You are indeed strong, that's why I'm entrusting you to protect Crow!" Zhou Weiqing grinned as he said.

…

After this basic arrangement of their formation, the group took a rest for a while, having a quick meal of dry rations before moving out once more, following the road on the left towards the Ghost Demon Forest.

The sun was high in the sky, and the air was clear and clean. Bathed by the warm rays of the sun, the hurrying group felt like their body was bathed in a comfortable warmth.

After about two hours of travel, they came to the end of the road, and a large thick forest was before them. Strangely, the trees and their leaves here seemed to have a deeper colour than most other ordinary woods, giving the entire forest a inky-green hue; when the wind blew, it was as if it was a sea before them. The entire scene was a little eerie, and the Ghost Demon Forest truly deserved its name.

At the end of the road, a large road sign presented itself before their eyes.

"Ghost Demon Forest. Be warned, Heavenly Beasts live here, with powerful ones in the core of the forest. Enter at your own risk." The warning sign had clearly been placed by the ZhongTian Empire.

"Powerful Heavenly Beasts?" Zhou Weiqing turned to look at Shangguan Fei'er querying-ly once more.

Shangguan Fei'er said dismissively: "That is for ordinary people, are you an ordinary person?"

Zhou Weiqing was normally a resolute person who did not like being wishy washy. Since he was already here, he wouldn't easily turn back, and he also believed in what Shangguan Fei'er said. As such, he said solemnly: "Alright, we will be heading into the forest now. Everyone, close ranks into the formations and we need to be on full alert. Little Miss Muddle, you stay by my side; if any danger appears, you help support and defend us."

Dou Dou agreed listlessly. Traveling non stop at full speed for the last few days had indeed bored her.

Zhou Weiqing sidled closer to her, saying in an enticing tone: "If we manage to hunt any wild game, I'll personally barbeque some delicious meat for you to eat, alright?"

Hearing his words, Little Miss Muddle's eyes immediately lit up, and she nodded vigorously towards him.

Yun Li stood by the side, giving a humph as he said: "Boss, it's not nice to keep enticing little kids like that."

Zhou Weiqing looked at Yun Li, then at Little Miss Muddle, saying: "Shouldn't you be jealous of her talent? Why are you so protective of her?"

Yun Li's face turned red as he said: "She is just a little girl, so innocent and naive, is it wrong for me to be protective?"

Zhou Weiqing looked at him in surprise, saying: "Old Yun, could you have fallen for Little Miss Muddle?"

"Bullshit! I'm not going to talk to you anymore." Yun Li said angrily. However, no matter how Zhou Weiqing looked at it, he seemed to be avoiding the topic.

Zhou Weiqing's lips twitched in an amused grin as he said: "Liking someone is a natural thing. You are not young anymore, one has to marry and raise a family in the future, what are you afraid of? To find a innocent girl like Little Miss Muddle is extremely rare in the world today, you might not be able to find a second one. Old Yun, you'll have to work doubly hard. Especially in terms of cooking… if you want Little Miss Muddle to fall for you too, you better be able to please her stomach."

Dou Dou looked at Zhou Weiqing, then at Yun Li, a confused look on her face. "What are you all talking about? How come I do not understand?"

Zhou Weiqing glanced at Yun Li, who was looking rather nervous, then said: "You do not need to understand now, but I believe that in future, Old Yun will give you some delicious food. Come on, let's go, we need to maintain the formation."

Looking at Zhou Weiqing, Yun Li couldn't help but praise him inwardly. That fellow's observational skills were just too strong, he had barely revealed a hint of interest, and Zhou Weiqing had already guessed his thoughts.

Indeed, Zhou Weiqing had guessed correctly, and Yun Li had already fallen for Little Miss Muddle Dou Dou. These past few days that they had all spent together; at first due to the amazing display of Consolidating Equipment talent that she had shown in the Fei Li City previously, Yun Li had paid much attention to her.

However, the more he noticed her, the more he had started liking her character. Innocent, naive, totally pure like a piece of white blank paper. Besides eating, she did not seem to have any other hobbies. She did not speak much, and also was not fussy about her food; as long as she had something to eat, she had a blissful look on her face. Yun Li started to enjoy watching her eat, and these few days, he had been spellbound several times.

Towards Yun Li's feelings, Little Miss Muddle naturally did not notice or feel anything, and she continued staying well-behaved beside Zhou Weiqing. Although she loved to eat, she would follow her teacher's instructions.

…

As the group entered the Ghost Demon Forest, the first thing they noticed was the change in temperature, as it was much colder here than outside. In truth, for all forests with dense vegetation, when the weather was hot, it would seem much cooler within due to the vegetation blocking the sun. However, it was a lot more obvious in this Ghost Demon Forest, at least five degrees or more lower than normal.

From the outside, the Ghost Demon Forest had seemed rather gloomy and eerie, but it was only when they really entered it that suddenly felt a refreshing, free feeling. Not only was the air crisp and clear, it was slightly moist as well. Taking in several deep breaths, it was as if all the worries and fatigue would melt away, giving them a carefree and relaxed feeling in both body and spirit.

Without any prompting from Zhou Weiqing, Little Four disappeared into the distance as he scouted ahead. The entire group slowed down slightly as they headed deeper into the forest with caution.

At first, everyone was walking along gingerly and full of caution, as this forest was after all supposed to be full of Heavenly Beasts.

However, as time passed, this caution slowly vanished. There were indeed Heavenly Beasts, but their numbers were few and far between, and were also not too powerful, mostly of the Shi or Low Zun Stage, and were easily finished off by either side's defense.

Zhou Weiqing held his Black Dawn Bow in his hands at the ready, keeping a close watch on the surroundings. Because they were rushing along, he could not keep his Overlord Bow Consolidated all the time as that would be a huge drain on his Heavenly Energy. With the Black Dawn Bow, he would be able to deal with most ordinary situations that cropped up.

Four hours later, the skies slowly darkened, and Zhou Weiqing decided to stop and set up camp.

Setting up camp properly was a skill unto itself, and thus Zang Lang and the other Fei Li Academy graduates were entrusted with the task. They chose an area of relatively high ground, cutting a section of trees to form a small barricade. In such a way, they could still have a wide view of the area around without compromising a barrier which would help delay any attacks from Heavenly Beasts.

Chapter 358: Joining! Shangguan Fei'er! (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Seeing Zang Lang and the others setting up camp, Lin TianAo nodded inwardly. Although Zang Lang and the others' cultivation level was very low, but they were fast and orderly in their setting up of camp, with every detail impeccable. They truly lived up to being top graduates of the Fei Li Military Academy. Perhaps in one versus one combat, they were not great, but in terms of leading troops and various military knowledge, Lin TianAo was sure that those who graduated from the Heavenly Jewel Academy like himself were no match for them. At the same time, he was also marveling at how Zhou Weiqing had been able to let these talents follow him with such trust and faith. Zhou Weiqing was not even twenty years old, and he already had such charisma and leadership. When he was older… what would he grow into?

Very soon, the camp was ready, and the tents that they had purchased on the way had been set up. They did not light a fire, instead taking out dry rations to eat.

Shangguan Fei'er sat beside Zhou Weiqing, sneaking glances at this future brother in law of hers.

Zhou Weiqing sat there quietly, his eyes calm and placid as he looked to be deep in thought. No matter what angle one looked at him, Zhou Weiqing was not considered to be a very handsome young man, but he was tall, muscular and well built, and was slowly growing to have the unique flavour of a grown man. Shangguan Fei'er did not know why, although her own power was currently beyond his, but just sitting beside him, she felt a strange sense of security and peace.

If at this moment, it was Shangguan Bing'er beside Zhou Weiqing, then she would definitely lean into him as she sat down, enjoying the comfort and security of his broad shoulders. However, Shangguan Fei'er could not do that; although she was from the same parents, her character was extremely different. Sitting a while was alright, but she would not be able to stay still for a long time.

"Oei, let's practice actual combat." Shangguan Fei'er nudged Zhou Weiqing after a while.

"Actual combat?" Zhou Weiqing looked at her warily. "Are you trying to take revenge on me?"

Towards Shangguan Fei'er's power, he had a very deep impression of it, and a deep ingrained wariness.

Shangguan Fei'er replied angrily: "Why do you always think the worst of me? I am after all your future sister in law, what is there to take revenge about? I just want to practice a bit, to learn from each other by exchanging notes in actual combat… Don't you think that your close combat fighting skills are a little too lacking?" 0

Zhou Weiqing looked at her helplessly. Weak? In the entire younger generation of the whole mainland, perhaps only Shangguan Fei'er could say that his close combat fighting skills were weak. After all, in comparison to a Mutated Duo Physical Jewel like hers, his close combat fighting skills were indeed lacking.

Towards such a point, Zhou Weiqing truly admired, and even respected, Shangguan Fei'er. Just in terms of close combat fighting ability alone, she leaps and bounds ahead of him. Indeed, if he were to learn some fighting techniques and skills from her, it would undoubtedly benefit him greatly.

"Now is not the time, you know this is the Ghost Demon Forest right… any Heavenly Beast might pop up at any time. If one attacks us suddenly, and our Heavenly Energy is drained in our practice, what do we do?"

Zhou Weiqing's words were truth. Amongst the entire group, Shangguan Fei'er was definitely the most powerful, with Zhou Weiqing and Lin TianAo behind her. Although Zhou Weiqing's personal combat strength was not the strongest, but he was of the greatest use in the party; not just for coordination and harmonizing all of them, but also because he had many powerful Control and Support Skills. With these control and support skills, he could raise the entire power level of the whole team.

Shangguan Fei'er grinned happily and said: "That's okay, we can fight without Heavenly Energy. After all, we are practicing close combat techniques, and we do not need to use Heavenly Energy at all, just purely our bodies and abilities. How about that?"

"En?" Upon hearing that, the perverted Zhou Little Fatty's eyes lit up, as he eyed her body with obvious 'ill intentions'.

"Hmph, bastard, what nonsense are you thinking about?" Being stared at like that by him, Shangguan Fei'er's face turned red. That rascal, he was always looking at her like that, how could Bing'er fall for him!

"Are you a man or not? Do you want to train or not? Hurry up and make up your mind!" Shangguan Fei'er said huffily.

Zhou Weiqing gave a humph of his own as he said: "Actual combat… so be it. We'll have to move a little further from the camp site. We have to agree first though, no using Heavenly Energy, Consolidated Equipment or Stored Skills!"

In his heart, he was thinking, how could he be afraid of her? Although in terms of cultivation level he was no match for her, and her own techniques were likely better than his, he was still very confident in his sheer physical strength. He trusted in being able to use pure strength and power in to overcome any techniques. After all, as the name of his own Legendary Set suggested, as long as one had enough strength, they would hate the fact that the earth did not have a pull lever. Such a feeling was definitely incomparable.

Shangguan Fei'er stood up, walking to the trees at the side. Zhou Weiqing gave Lin TianAo a signal to inform him that he wouldn't be heading out far, before following suit.

Zhou Weiqing had just entered the trees behind her when he heard her shout out loud: "I'm coming!"

Before Zhou Weiqing even had the time to think lewdly to himself about the other possible meaning of the phrase, a faint fragrance had entered his senses.

Shangguan Fei'er had charged directly towards Zhou Weiqing. However, without her Consolidated Bracer-Gloves, her slim little hands did not seem to pose much threat.

Her hands instantly grabbed out towards both his shoulders, and her entire body was like a swooping swallow. Along with her words earlier, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but daydream that she was flinging herself at him.

"Come on." Zhou Weiqing grinned, replying shamelessly. He knew his own Flexibility and Coordination was no match for Shangguan Fei'er's, and did not bother attempting to dodge her blow, instead lifting both his hands towards hers to force it into a match of strength.

As the four hands were about to meet, all of a sudden, her actions changed, her body dipping downwards in a strange position, and her hands also dipping down abruptly.

Zhou Weiqing's reaction was not slow as well, as he quickly took a half step back, both hands elbowing downward in mid motion in an attempt to strike at her incoming arms, in an attempt to force her to be unable to attack him.

A faint smile tugged at Shanggaun Fei'er's lips. She was originally already with the exact same look as Shangguan Bing'er, and with that faint smile, it was almost as if Bing'er was right in front of him.

Zhou Weiqing's heart softened momentarily, and the strength he used subconsciously lowered.

Alas, at the same time, Shangguan Fei'er moved swiftly. Her feet did not move, but her upper body suddenly leaned backward slightly, barely half a chi, but her hands turned from a grabbing motion to a lifting motion, and in a lightning swift strike, her index fingers and middle fingers of both hands had struck down on Zhou Weiqing's elbows.

A human's elbow was extremely tough, but at the center of the joints, there was a weak point known as the funny bone. Normally, one would not touch it, but if it was struck, it would give a momentary numbness. This time, Shangguan Fei'er had obviously struck it on purpose.

Zhou Weiqing felt as if his entire body was struck by lightning, and both his arms flopped down momentarily as he lost control of them. At that moment, Shangguan Fei'er advanced a step, her hands gripping Zhou Weiqing's strength-less wrists, and once more her fingers pressed down onto the meridian points on his wrists, causing the numbness to spread from his arms to his body. The next moment, Shangguan Fei'er had made use of his second moment of weakness to pull backwards on his hands as she leaped backwards, her entire body topping back as her right leg lifted up right into Zhou Weiqing's chest muscles. *Swoosh* Zhou Weiqing was sent flying all the way back to land hard on the ground.

*Peng* Zhou Weiqing's body flew almost five yards before landing savagely on a tree, sliding down slowly.

Without the usage of Heavenly Energy, with Zhou Weiqing's physique, he was naturally not injured by such a throw and fall. Even so, he lay spreadeagled for a moment, stunned.

A peal of laughter came from Shangguan Fei'er as she turned around to see him clambering up from the ground. She waggled a finger at him, as if saying In terms of close combat, you are no match for me!

Zhou Weiqing gave an angry humph, and his right leg exerted a sudden burst of power, and his entire body pounced forward like an angry tiger towards Shangguan Fei'er. This time, he learned his lesson, his hands held before his chest as he gathered all his physical strength, his muscles tightened as he locked his eyes on Shangguan Fei'er in preparation for any move she made.

Shangguan Fei'er revealed a cunning grin in her eyes. Facing Zhou Weiqing's reckless charge, she did not retreat, instead advancing forward. Lifting her right leg like a battle axe, she swung it towards his head, the motion so smooth and swift, a perfect marriage of strength and flexibility.

Seeing Shangguan Fei'er's leg strike down, Zhou Weiqing did not bother dodging. At such a moment, he still couldn't help himself as he thought: If she was wearing a dress, what kind of sight would this be!

*Peng* Shangguan Fei'er's right leg smashed down savagely on his left shoulder, causing him to grit his teeth in pain. Although she did not have the Strength Attribute, she was after all already at the six-Jeweled stage, and the boost to her physique was no laughing matter.

However, this time, Zhou Weiqing had taken the blow on purpose. After all, he knew that with Shangguan Fei'er's flexibility and coordination, under any normal circumstance, he would not be able to touch her.

The reason why he had taken the blow on purpose was because he had already judged and planned his next move. The very instant that her leg struck him, his hand shot out like a bolt of lightning, grabbing onto her calf.

If she had not kicked him, with Shangguan Fei'er's reaction speed, she would have definitely been able to dodge his hands. However, when her leg struck onto Zhou Weiqing's shoulder, the rebounding force from his tightened muscles had caused her movement to slow imperceptibly, and it was just that tiny lapse in movement that had allowed Zhou Weiqing to succeed.

Although it was through her pants, when Zhou Weiqing's hands grasped onto Shangguan Fei'er's calf, he could feel the startling elasticity of her smooth skin, giving him a surprise.

Shangguan Fei'er and Shangguan Bing'er were sisters, triplets even, and they looked exactly the same. However, the feeling of their bodies were totally different indeed.