101 - 109

Chapter 101: Divine Black Negative Meridians

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: celllll

Ling Tian's face grew serious, a seriousness like never before!

Purple black meridians!

Being born in the number one martial family in his past life, Ling Tian naturally knew what that meant.

For this sort of situation to appear, there could only be two reasons. The first was that the person had been affected with an extreme Yin-based frost poison which had invaded the meridians. The quantity must also be minute, else the person would have long turned to a corpse. Only in the right quantities could a person be able to stay alive. But, their body would still slowly freeze up till they became completely rigid.

The second scenario was even more complex and thorny, which was if the meridians were naturally formed in such a way. In the martial way, there was an awe-inspiring name for it: Divine Black Negative Meridians. But to put it bluntly, it was just dead meridians! The meridians would be completely blocked and the practitioner unable to even exert a bit of internal strength. For a female to possess such meridians, her life was destined to end before 20!

Looking at Yu BingYan's meagre internal strength, everyone would know that this little lass had to put in many more times the effort as a normal person, to even have such an effect. But, it also showed that her Divine Black Negative Meridians still had hope. Just that it was difficult, difficult to the point that it could be considered impossible!

Ling Tian's expression immediately became ugly to behold! While it could be healed, there were only two by Ling Tian's side who satisfied the prerequisites! The first would be Ling Tian himself, to have his Divine Shocking Dragon Formula reach grand completion of the twelfth layer, to be able to accumulate enough XianTian True Qi to force open the Divine Black Negative Meridians! Breaking through the Conception and Governing Meridians, link up the bridge of Heaven and Earth! Only by doing so could the owner of the Divine Black Meridian continue to persist! That would be akin to doing a marrow cleansing for Yu BingYan, shedding her mortal body once. She would immediately turn into a peerless expert! However, the process would be fraught with danger. With the slightest inattention, both parties would suffer from cultivation deviation and die without a complete corpse!

The second person would be Ling Chen, using her Divine Ice Formula which shared the same characteristics as the meridians, to slowly absorb the Divine Black Negative Meridians. Not only would it not harm her, but it would also boost Ling Chen's cultivation. The problem was that only when Ling Chen had reached the ninth layer in her cultivation could she barely meet the requirements to attempt such a matter! With her current cultivation of the fifth layer, if she were to make a rash move, not only would Yu BingYan not be cured, Ling Chen would be sacrificed as well!

As for Ling Tian's XianTian Divine Shocking Dragon Formula, ever since he broke into the seventh layer, he could not progress further any longer! Ling Tian knew that he had already hit a bottleneck. Before this, he had nothing to worry about. However, Ling Tian deeply regretted that he did not make use of the chance to cultivate back then. For him to hit the grand completion of the twelfth layer from his current state, he would need at least ten years! Ling Chen had it worse: the climate of the Sky Bearing Empire was more towards the hot side. To progress pass the seventh layer of the Divine Ice Formula, one would need an place of extreme cold to continue cultivating. If she remained here, it was unlikely for her to reach the pinnacle state of ninth layer in her entire life! With Yu BingYan's current condition, how could she afford to wait another ten years?

The three of them simultaneously saw the ugly expression on Ling Tian's face. Yu BingYan had a great shock, immediately retracting her hand back into her sleeve as though she had received an electric shock. Thinking of her chronic condition, she could not help but turn deathly pale. Had Ling Tian discovered something?

Ling Chen and Wei XuanXuan stared at Ling Tian expectantly, feeling strange regarding his behavior.

Ling Tian took into a deep, ragged breath, before finally cautiously opening his mouth, "Ling Chen, please bring Miss Wei into your room. I recall that you had borrowed a book of inscriptions previously, I believe that Miss Wei would be interested in it.

Wei XuanXuan looked at Yu BingYan hesitantly, to see her lightly nodding her head. Wei XuanXuan knew that Ling Tian could have potentially discovered something, and thus followed Ling Chen out.

Seeing the duo leave the room, Ling Tian began frowning once more, pacing around the room. He looked at Yu BingYan, and was about to speak, but ended up shaking his head once more.

"Elder brother, are you also well-versed in medicine?" Given how smart Yu BingYan was, how could not see through Ling Tian's expression of wanting to speak but being unable to? She knew that he should have found out the problem of her body and could not help but feel amazed. When she first started showing symptoms, it took almost all the famed physicians to look through her before they diagnosed her Divine Black Negative Meridians, how could it be that Ling Tian, young as he was, could be able to figure it out?

"Little sister, do you have some sort of chronic disease on your body?" After hesitating for quite a while, Ling Tian saw that Yu BingYan had already figured out his intentions, and thus frankly spoke his mind.

Yu BingYan paled, indeed, he had seen it! "That is correct, elder brother has sharp senses indeed. This little sister has the condition of Heavenly Yin Locked Meridians and will not live past 20. My life, I'm afraid, has no hope." Even when speaking about her own terminal illness, her eyes were full of apathy. It was as though she was talking about something unrelated to her. Obviously, Yu BingYan had already totally given up on her own condition.

"Heavenly Yin Locked Meridians! Turns out, the Divine Black Negative Meridians were named as such in this world," Ling Tian thought to himself. Looking at her calm and indifferent eyes, Ling Tian only felt a sharp pain in his heart, his viscera and intestines seeming to twist together.

Seeing how Ling Tian's eyes suddenly revealed sharp pain as well as deep tenderness, Yu BingYan only felt her young heart tremble harshly! "He, he is feeling sad for me! He is feeling sad for me!!"

In that moment, Yu BingYan's heartstrings seemed to have been plucked at by Ling Tian, a sort of warm and yet bittersweet feeling of happiness flooded her heart! Looking at him, she suddenly had this great urge to throw herself on his warm embrace, on those strong shoulders of his and cry without abandon. To cry and vent out all those years of misery and suffering. Yu BingYan suddenly had a thought: This man, he understands me!

Being born in an aristocratic family, she was not lacking of food nor clothes since young, but had actually gotten such an incurable disease! Over these years, in order not to let the family worry over her, Yu BingYan had always pretended to be happy, jovial, and full of fun, keeping the despair and pain for herself to bear. She took all the negativity in, forced herself to chew them, and to swallow it all.

All these years, no one truly understood how much she had suffered!

No one knew how much despair she was enduring!

No one knew that deep in her heart, she wanted to live on! She wanted to live on extremely badly, just like a normal person!

Yu BingYan shouted that in her heart! As loud and as hard as she possibly could!

However, these words would never come out from her mouth! Because, there was no one she could say it too!

Tell her parents? That would only cause her family to bow their heads and cry together! Tell her siblings who had always been jealous of her? That would be even more pointless!

"The world is huge, yet nary a person understands me! There is actually no one whom can hear me lament! I can only talk to the wind, speak to the clouds and whisper to the flowers when I'm alone… maybe all that I can do is to bite my blanket hard in the dead of the night and let my tears flow unhindered… silently venting without anyone knowing…"

"Thank goodness! The Heavens have given me someone whom can understand, accept and take pity on me! That is the man in front of me!" Yu BingYan stared dumbly at Ling Tian. But, she could not bring herself to do it. She could not bring herself to be so selfish. He was so outstanding, so how could she use this dying body of hers and plunge him into everlasting pain?

"But I… really want, really want to lean on him… even if it's just for a while… I will make that become the eternity in my heart! O Heavens, could you let me enjoy the beauty of life before mine comes to an end? I don't need a lot, neither do I hope for a lot, and I definitely do not wish to possess all! I just need a fraction of it, to even have a fraction… I would be satisfied… I would have no more regrets!"

Just like a child being bullied, finding out that her mother's embrace was the warmest! From the depths of her heart, all the way to her eyes, a stream of bitterness leaked out. How wronged she felt!

Ling Tian only looked at her gently, warmly, with his eyes full of pity and silent acceptance, as well as a sort of… encouragement! At this moment, he silently and steadily raised his arms, facing the pitiful young girl in front of him...

Yu BingYan erupted into heartfelt ecstasy at this gesture! At this point, she threw aside everything… in her eyes, there was only that welcoming embrace. "Thank you, O Heavens! Let me be crazy just this once!"

Yu BingYan seemed to have achieved a speed she could never reach in her lifetime, as she contentedly, ecstatically, even viciously, threw herself into Ling Tian's embrace!

How warm, how secure! How happy she felt at this time! Yu BingYan's tears cascaded down like a downpour as she let herself loose completely!

Chapter 102: Yu Family Head

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

In the north, the Yu Family, Moon Climbing Star Picking Tower.

The family head of the Yu family, Yu ManLou, sat by the window and looked at the clouds drifting in the air with a pair of distant eyes.

"...three more years… three years! Three years later, just what would the situation be like?" Yu ManLou was filled with worry as he took a long sigh.

Behind him, a middle aged man dressed in white stood there silently without saying anything. After hearing those words, his body trembled slightly, revealing a complicated gaze.

Yu ManLou turned back and looked at him gently, "How is BingYan?"

The middle aged man's eyes turned dull as he said, "She should be roaming around the Sky Bearing Empire now. This lass, haiz!" He ended his sentence with a deep sigh.

Yu ManLou looked as though he was thinking about something and laughed, "Sky Bearing Empire? Mmm, good choice! When she went out back then, I recommended her to go to the Sky Bearing Empire. Today, she is indeed there. Good, good, good! Haha…" After saying three consecutive 'good', he let out a wave of laughter.

That white dressed middle aged man asked with doubt, "Up until now, I have not understood why elder brother wants BingYan to go to the Sky Bearing Empire."

Yu ManLou's eyes flashed as he laughed, "Haha, you will know eventually."

The white dressed middle aged man replied, "Yes." In front of this elder brother who he trusted since young, the middle aged man would not ask any questions. He knew that his elder brother definitely had a reasoning for everything he does. The only thing he had to do was to obey.

The sound of flapping wings then sounded from afar and a white figure dived down from the sky, flying into the tower and perching itself on the shoulders of the middle aged man. This was a snow white messenger pigeon, rubbing its face on the clothes of the middle aged man, making them look extremely close to each other.

The middle aged man laughed and took down a slim bamboo container from the legs of the pigeon. From within it, he retrieved a delicately folded piece of paper and opened it up.

As he looked through it, his face changed and looked up, "Elder brother, Water of Heavenly Wind sent someone to the Sky Bearing Empire! They even fought BingYan! Xue Leng requested for us to provide additional protection for BingYan. Elder brother, should I make a trip there?"

Yu ManLou frowned and began to read the piece of paper as well. But after reading the piece of paper, he relaxed, "Don't need to be so nervous, BingYan is fine. With the stubborn brain of that old fellow in the Heavenly Wind, he would never send anyone to the Heavenly Star. This matter is definitely unrelated to the Heavenly Wind." He then revealed a mysterious smile and said calmly, "This matter is related to someone else.

The middle aged man was taken aback for a moment as he asked, "How did elder brother determine that?"

Yu ManLou laughed, "In the Sky Bearing Empire, there is an extraordinary talent who cannot be fathomed! I only found out about his existence two years ago. I have once sent someone to investigate him. In the end, the results were very interesting! Hahaha…"

"Extraordinary talent? Interesting? Who is he?" There was actually an extraordinary talent in the Sky Bearing Empire that can allow his own elder brother to have high expectations of? This was the first time the middle aged man heard his elder brother speak with such a tone and could not help but be curious.

Who was Yu ManLou? He was the family head of the number one martial aristocratic family! With his martial arts reaching perfection and a large amount of strength within his grasp, even if they were to mention Water of Heavenly Wind, Yu ManLou would only just pay a little more attention to them! But now, there was actually someone who Yu ManLou thought highly of! The middle aged man was just too curious.

"This person," Yu ManLou said with consideration, "I have sent men to investigate him for two years already. But, every report that comes back would be different and with stark contrast. His actions are always unexpected and completely wild. However, his schemes run deep and he plans extremely far ahead. He is definitely a rare person in the world today! If this was the only case, it would not be worth for me to pay much attention to him. But the problem is, after sending the Nineteen Flying Eagles, they are still unable to fully evaluate him after two years!"

The middle aged man's face changed! There is actually someone like this in the world? "Who is this person?"

Yu ManLou responded with a strange expression as he said slowly, "Ling Tian."

"Ling Tian? That infamous number one silkpants in the Sky Bearing Empire?" The middle aged man asked with shock and disbelief.

"Silkpants? Hahaha… if he is the number one silkpants, then all of the so-called elites of our Yu family are nothing but trash! Do you know how his name as silkpants came about?" Yu ManLou gave a grunt.

Yu ManTang rubbed his head in difficulty, "How did his name as silkpants come about? How else can it come about?"

"Hmph! Pighead! Do you really think I am so free to observe a silkpants thousands of miles away?! Let me tell you, Ling Tian's name as silkpants is fabricated by the number one gang in the Sky Bearing Empire, the Violent Wind Gang. After the investigations of the Nineteen Flying Eagles, I found out that the person behind the Violent Wind Gang was Ling Tian! No wonder the rumours of him spread all over so quickly. All of it was just a plan of his and he played along with them."

"This…" Yu ManTang became confused, "then didn't he fabricate himself? Destroy his own reputation?"

"That's right, that's indeed the case!" Yu ManLou's eyes flashed with an investigative light, "This child is so young and yet able to fool everyone in the world! But, these little tricks of his are unable to fool me!" His words were filled with anger. Before he knew about Ling Tian, he indeed did not place Ling Tian in his sights at all. In other words, at that time, he was also nothing but a fool in Ling Tian's eyes!

"The most frightening part is that after two years of investigation, I was only able to find out that the Violent Wind Gang is his, the military workshop of the Xiao family is also under his control and the Ling Family Courtyard has an extremely powerful private army with about 20,000 troops. As for the rest, we are completely clueless! All of these are only his strength on the surface! With his wit, how is it possible for him to display all of his might for the world to see? In other words, the only ones in this world who know his true trump cards are his trusted aides!" Yu ManLou said with excitement! This was excitement from meeting a match. He had finally realized that he was actually not lonely at the peak of this world!

"Elder brother, it seems that Ling Tian is less than 20 years old still. How can it be possible for someone so young to be as how you described? Did elder brother exaggerate a little?" Yu ManTang asked with hesitation.

"I definitely did not exaggerate! In fact, I underestimated him greatly!" Yu ManLou said with confidence, "This person is the number one genius I have met in my life! Thus, I wanted BingYan to go to the Sky Bearing Empire this time! As long as BingYan reaches the Sky Bearing Empire, he will definitely find out about it and will also approach her for sure. I do not need BingYan to do anything. I only want to know how he treats my Yu family!"

"But, I never expected him to test us! Hahaha… if not for that, I would not have known that he actually has such an expert under him!" Yu ManLou laughed with satisfaction. For the first time, he felt as though he was having the upper hand in this hidden battle.

The two of them had never met before but already considered the other party as an opponent. While they did not know that they were plotting against each other, they both decided to test each other at the same time. Two people who had never met before had achieved such a chemistry unknowingly. The same actions, the same measures, the same concealments, and the same pride! If they both knew about it, they would be shocked for sure!

But now, both of them thought that the other party did not know about their own existence. Both of them also felt that they had touched upon the trump card of the other party and was secretly in delight…

Chapter 103: Ling Jian's News

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

After considering for a moment, Yu ManLou issued an order, "Inform BingYan to not be in a rush to return. She can enjoy exploring for a while longer. Hehe…"

As Yu ManTang heard that, he could not help but hesitate. After all, he cared for his daughter as a father. For his daughter to face such a powerful opponent on his own homeground, how was it possible for him to not be worried?

Yu ManLou then looked at him calmly, "If it was me, do you think I will deal with a young lass who does not pose any threat?"

Yu ManTang replied without even thinking, "Of course not!"

Yu ManLou then laughed, "Then, he won't either!" His words were filled with confidence and respect for an opponent!

"But three years later, BingYan…" Yu ManTang's words trailed off.

Yu ManLou also grew serious, "You do not need to mention this again! This is BingYan's fate! It cannot be changed!" After giving a long sigh, he comforted, "Second brother, I understand what you mean. As long as there is another female disciple in the family, I will definitely not let BingYan face that matter. But in BingYan's generation, she is the only female direct descendant! This matter can be said to be the will of the heavens! BingYan has sickness on her and my Yu family also feels that we owe her too much, doting on her as much as we can. Thankfully, this child is also extremely sensible, making everyone dote on her even more."

As he said that, Yu ManLou smiled affectionately as though the niece whom he doted on was right in front of his eyes. Following which, his face became serious as his tone turned solemn, "But! When it is time for her to sacrifice for the family, she will have to stand out without hesitation as a disciple of the Yu Family! This matter is something that would never change no matter who she is! The interests of the family and thousand year tradition is always the most important!"

"Water of Heavenly Wind had already chosen their representative. I heard that this lady is already very capable. If this is the case, there isn't a need to guess what the outcome will be three years later." Yu ManTang said with a gloomy expression.

Yu ManLou let out a long breath as he comforted, "BingYan is born with Heavenly Negative Locked Meridians. Even without that matter three years later, she will not be able to last for more than five years. Second brother, you cannot hold onto things too tightly. When it is time to let go, no matter how precious it is, you have to let go! If you are unable to do that, you will never be able to be a proper leader!"

Yu ManTang's eyes were both reddened as he stood there emotionlessly. All of a sudden, he felt as though the spring wind was extremely desolate!

Yu ManLou then sighed again and changed the topic, "Are ShaoQiu and the few of them still hooked onto that matter?"

Yu ManTang just recovered from his daze and did not have time to consider his answer, "Mmm, it seems as though their actions are getting larger." The moment he said that, he snapped into realization about what he just said and could not help but break out in cold sweat!

Yu ManLou coldly snorted as his face turned chilly. With a resolute light in his eyes, he said, "If there isn't a way to control them, we can only give up!"

Yu ManTang's face changed colors, "Elder brother, give it more consideration! ShaoQiu is your biological son!"

Yu ManLou's face turned chilly, "No matter what his status is, he will have to pay the price if he does certain things! So what if he is my son? The thousand years of legacy handed down from our ancestors must not be ruined in my hands! Since he had done it, he must be prepared! ManTang, you must not inform them about anything. Since they have the ambitions, we cannot close an eye for them. These are things which we will have to do eventually; a moment of soft heartedness now can be the cause of the destruction of our family in future! You must remember that!" With a wave of his sleeves, Yu ManLou suddenly disappeared. It was as though he was never on this Moon Climbing Star Picking Tower!

Yu ManTang then let out a long sigh, "Elder brother has great foresight and is resolute in his actions. He is definitely a top notch character in the world today. It is just that his heart is a little too hard."

His thoughts could not help but drift onto his own daughter. Thinking about his daughter's illness and his daughter's fate, he could not help but feel bitterness. He looked towards the clouds, staring towards the south as he lamented, "BingYan, my daughter. Your life is really so bitter!"

In the dense forest, a wave of blood light rushed towards the skies.

A few bodies had already lay on the floor in contorted positions. However, they all still had a breath, panting heavily as they longer had any hope of survival in their eyes. Instead, their eyes were filled with a longing to die a swift death!

On their bodies, there was no longer be a piece of complete meat! Even a piece the size of a copper coin could not be seen.

From the side, it cannot be seen just how many bodies there were. They all lay there bloodied and without a single strand of hair on them. All of them were actually skinned alive! However, their chests were still rising and falling with a weak breath. Beside them, there were a few holes being dug with layers of human skin within them! The way it looked, they were first buried into the earth, tamping them down with layers of earth. Then, an opening was made on their heads, pouring mercury into it…

Facing this cruel and gruesome scene, a cold-faced young man dressed in black leaned against a tree leisurely with a few pieces of written confessions written by blood in his hands. His eyes were focused as he compared all of the confessions, as though he was trying to verify something. If one were to look closely, they would be able to see that on those confessions, different names were written in blood!

A short while later, that black dressed young man smirked as he mumbled, "It is completely the same; it seems that these fellows are not lying. I have finally finished young noble's mission!" After letting out a heave of relief, he looked towards the contorted corpses on the ground. His eyes were cold, as though he was staring at pigs which were already slaughtered and had no feelings.

His dismal voice then sounded, "Very good! You guys did not lie to me indeed! Now, I will keep to my word and send all of you on your way! Let me give you guys an advice, remember to be a loyal person in your next life. If you become a traitor again like this life of yours, your outcome will probably be the same!"

Killing intent then exploded from his eyes and with a 'shiiiiing', a long sword was drawn. The black dressed man then walked forward slowly like a reaper of death, walking towards those barely breathing bodies. For those of them who still had eyes, not a hint of hatred or fear could be seen. Instead, they were filled with a look of liberation! Death, can actually be an extravagant dream for someone living in torture!

A cold voice then sounded, "After arriving in hell, remember the name of the person who killed you! I am called Ling Jian!" His long sword brandished…

A short while later, Ling Jian's figure darted out from the forest and rode onto the back of a green bristled horse. With a wave of his sword, the rope which was tied to the tree was severed. Following the loud neigh of the horse and the sound of hooves rang out, kicking up a cloud of dust…

"After half a month of hard work, I finally obtained the name list which young noble wants!" Ling Jian thought to himself, "However, I am already a few days late from the stipulated time…" He could not help but grow nervous in his heart, "It seems that I am going to be punished by young noble when I return again…"

As he thought about that, a bitter smile hung from the corner of his lips. However, a look of zeal filled his eyes! Ling Jian was extremely clear that every time his young noble taught him a lesson, it was extremely useful for increasing his strength! His heart was full of expectations! "I am a sword for the young noble! His only sword!" Ling Jian thought to himself with pride!

Apart from I, Ling Jian, who else can be the sword for my young noble?!

For the ambitions of my young noble, I, Ling Jian, can kill everyone in the world! Who cares if I go to hell?! It is just a cycle of reincarnation!

He travelled for a long time tirelessly!

In the front, there was a clear river flowing calmly outside the Sky Bearing Empire! By the side of the river, the willow trees stood tall and proud. The grass swayed gently in the winds and birds sang beautifully. On the opposite, a majestic building stood up, proud and tall!

Ling Family Courtyard!

Ling Jian's straightened back on the horse relaxed slightly. On his chilly face and sharp eyes, a trace of warmth was also revealed.

Here, is my young noble, brothers, hopes and dreams. For their safety, for the ambitions of my young noble, I, Ling Jian, am willing to be a bloodthirsty murderer!

Chapter 104: Affection, a Bitter Lotus

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: celllll

These few days felt like the happiest days Yu BingYan had ever been through, with him by her side.

After that bawling session, both of them suddenly felt a lot closer to each other. This was especially true for Yu BingYan. Whenever she came to the Ling Mansion, she loved to annoy Ling Tian with silly matters. A light laughter would be heard coming from her every now and then. It was as though her ten odd years of despair, pressure, loneliness and grief would be washed away whenever she was by his side.

Happiness welled up from deep inside her heart. Even for those protectors who had watched her grow up, this was the first time they witnessed something like this! All of them could not help but feel a pain in their hearts: Poor princess, she should be someone who had the right to enjoy all of these, more than anyone else in the world. Yet, the heaven makes fools of men; she was destined to lead a life of sorrow the moment she was born!

Ling Tian understood deep down that Yu BingYan knew her days were numbered. So, she took every single chance she had with him seriously. As such, he showered her with even more tenderness and affection.

These few days, Yu BingYan did not remove the face concealing powder that she wore. Ling Tian also seemed to have forgotten completely about it. In both their hearts, the mental connection they shared was more important; as for external looks, they were secondary. If any party were to talk about it, it would make them seem shallow.

Currently, Yu BingYan was wielding onto a brush as the corners of her mouth were curled up in a slight smile, displaying the joy in her heart. Her eyes were filled with an immense satisfaction as she attempted to replicate one of Ling Tian's artwork in his study. With her head bowed, she seemed to be fully engrossed. But every time she lifted her head up to glance at his artwork, her eyes carried hints of bashfulness and tenderness. It seemed as though this girl had turned silly with love and emotions.

The door was opened gently and Ling Tian, clad in a white robe, drifted over elegantly. In his hands was a small bowl of porridge and he smiled gently as he spoke, "Lass, put down the brush and come and eat the porridge first."

Yu BingYan uttered a sound of joy, jumping up as she said, "Hehe… Tian'ge is so nice. Heehee… ouch, it's hot. Eh? Where's Sister Ling Chen?" [1]

"Hot? This bowl is about to freeze, and you still say it's hot? Quickly eat it all, playing these little tricks with me are of no use," Ling Tian reproached laughingly, "Chen'er is out running some errands for me and she'll be back soon. Don't change the topic, hurry and eat it all."

With a light 'Mmm' sound, she began to eat the porridge in small mouthfuls. Suddenly, she seemed to have thought of something. Raising her head to look at Ling Tian with her sparkling eyes, she asked, "Tian'ge, speak the truth. Do you feel uncomfortable looking at this black face of mine day all day?"

"You silly lass!" Ling Tian guffawed and pinched her smooth face as he replied, "Is that important? In any case, I have long known that this isn't your true appearance. But since my little sister refuses to let me see her face, I can't do anything about it!"

Yu BingYan's eyes lit up at that sentence. "Is that true? Yan'er also would actually like to let Tian'ge see my true face, but Yan'er is worried…." As she spoke, her voice gradually grew softer and softer, and her expression grew dim. She thought to herself, "Silly brother, I'm afraid that you will not be able to let me go of me at that time. In the event that my disease cannot be cured, or I can't survive what comes after, at least your heart will only have my ugly face and you won't feel so sad. Yan'er really does not want you to be sad over me. If it really comes to pass, I hope that you can live happily, have a lovable wife, enjoy riches and glory, without thinking of me, ever!"

However, Ling Tian laughed out loudly, "I know what you're thinking of. Rest assured, Yan'er is Ling Tian's little sister and I'll definitely save you! There must be a way to do it. In this world, there's a type of phenomenon, we call it 'miracle'! Yan'er, I will make this miracle happen on you." He silently added in his heart, "I won't let you die just like that. Definitely not!"

Three days earlier, Ling Tian had already given the order: Use all your resources, I do not care what methods, I want everyone to begin collecting spiritual medicines! Ginseng, snow lotus, Lingzhi, vermillion fruits… as long as they contain spiritual energies, I want them all!

Ling Tian remembered how he was appointed by his family, in his past life, to steal the recipe for the Great Cyclic Pellet from the Shaolin Monastery. This was originally a death sentence and Ling Tian had to lay in ambush at the roof of the pill refining pavilion for three days and nights, without even twitching in the heavy snow, before finally managing to pull it off. As such, because of that mission's difficulty, as well as the fact that he almost froze his butt off, the recipe was firmly engraved in his mind and brought over to this life of his!

If not for Yu BingYan's illness jolting his memory, Ling Tian probably wouldn't have thought about the Great Cyclic Pellet. The moment he had heard of her Divine Black Negative Meridians, he suddenly thought of this plan to concoct the Great Cyclic Pellet.

While the Great Cyclic Pellet might not be able to open up her Divine Black Negative Meridians, the tyrannical medicinal efficacy would be able to alleviate Yu BingYan's condition temporarily. This would prevent her from passing away at the age of twenty. Right now, time was something which Ling Tian needed the most. As long as he had enough time, he had the confidence that he could cultivate his Divine Shocking Dragon Formula to an apex in which none had ever seen! At that time, there was hope for Yu BingYan to be cured completely!

In addition, though the Great Cyclic Pellet would only serve as a method to alleviate Yu BingYan's condition, to Ling Jian, Ling Chen and the rest, it was a treasure in which one could chance upon but not search for! Under Ling Tian's hands, though the pellet produced might not have be as heaven defying as the original produced by the Shaolin Monastery of increasing ten years' worth of cultivation, it would not be a far shot to increase their cultivation by three to five years. This increase of three to five years' worth of cultivation would allow those cold blooded killers to grow to a terrifying state of power!

Never, in Ling Tian's dreams, did he expect that the death sentence handed out by the direct descent of his family in his previous life to be the capital for him to rely on in this world! From this, one could see that life was indeed whimsical at times.

Today, Ling Chen had secretly slipped out the moment at dawn, heading to the Ling Family Courtyard to receive the first batch of medical herbs.

Ling Tian cradled Yu BingYan in his bosom gently, his chin rubbing on her smooth hair as he whispered softly, "Little Sister, believe in me! I will treat your illness!"

Yu BingYan pulled her face to Ling Tian's chest. She nodded her head hard as her eyes begin to fill with tears. In an instant, Ling Tian felt a coolness coming from his chest. Tian'ge, you must know that even if you treat my illness successfully, I'll still have to attend the Sixty Year Challenge of Three Generations. I am destined to never have the fortune of staying by your side forever…

As Ling Tian hugged her supple body, his inner self raged and his eyes hardened, "Anyone that I, Ling Tian, acknowledges, nobody can take them from me! Not even the heavens! Because I am Ling Tian and I can definitely rule the heavens!

[1]: Tian'ge refers to elder brother Tian, being an affectionate way for Yu BingYan to address Ling Tian.

Chapter 105: Marvelous Acting

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

After Yu BingYan was tired from crying, she curled up in Ling Tian's embrace, sleeping soundly like an obedient kitten.

The sound of light footsteps sounded and Ling Tian placed Yu BingYan down on the bed gently, covering a blanket over her. He then looked at her closed eyes with tears still present at the tip of her eye lashes. After a while, Ling Tian walked out.

Outside the door, a skinny black dressed man was already standing there quietly. His body was straight, with a pale and chilly face.

Ling Tian smiled, "XueLeng, why aren't you coming in? Are you not afraid that I will harm your little princess? Are you so confident in me? Mmm?"

The person outside the door was the mysterious man who had always been protecting Yu BingYan, XueLeng, who was an expert in the Yu family. He then replied coldly, "You will not harm the little princess, I know that!"

"Oh? You're so sure about that?" Ling Tian looked at him teasingly as he thought to himself, "While this fellow seems like a blockhead, he isn't a fool either."

XueLeng then looked directly into Ling Tian's eyes and said, "While you definitely will not harm the little princess, I know that you will kill me without hesitation the moment you have the chance!"

Ling Tian burst out into laughter, "Kill you? I can kill you with a brush?" At the same time, he was startled in his heart, "This fellow is really so sensitive! Did he realize something?"

XueLeng stared at him unblinkingly, looking at the look of disbelief and innocence plastered over Ling Tian's face. A while later, XueLeng averted his gaze from Ling Tian, "Forget it, I only wish that I can send the little princess back to the Yu family safe and sound. Your Sky Bearing Empire and Ling Mansion is too dangerous!"

Ling Tian nodded his head in agreement, "You are right, I will transfer more guards over. Mmm, if that isn't enough, I will hire all the armed escort companies in the Sky Bearing Empire. Those people are all experts in the pugilistic world! They will definitely be able to ensure the safety of the little princess!"

XueLeng was completely speechless.

He was just unable to figure anything out about this young man. Whenever Ling Tian lied, he would do so calmly and without a trace, making it seem as though everything was from the bottom of his heart. This made XueLeng extremely helpless. Thus, XueLeng replied with displeasure, "Do whatever you wish, I will always be by the little princess' side. You'd better take care of your own safety. It is not your turn to bother about the little princess' safety." In the end, he still let go of his doubts.

When he first saw Ling Tian, he felt that Ling Tian's body size was a little familiar. However, he would never believe that this number one silkpants was a martial arts expert! Only until he saw Ling Chen and Ling Tian stand together did he begin to have his suspicions.

The past few days, he had tried to silently investigate plenty of times. However, this young man would always be a little evil and frivolous. As for the young lady, she was naive and lively, not bothering about worldly affairs! Slowly, he even began to doubt his own judgement. In the end, he decided not to remain in hiding and step out openly instead. After a few frontal probing, he still had no results at all. He felt that this young man in front of him was just like a slippery loach, making him feel completely helpless. Today, he had finally confirmed that this fellow was only a scholarly aristocratic young noble. Apart from the few words of poetry and strokes of painting, he did not have any other abilities!

XueLeng began to lament in his heart, "Just how did this weak fellow attract the liking of our little princess?! If the family head finds out about this matter, he will definitely skin me alive!" He sighed with frustration. After hearing the even breathing of the little princess, his body flashed and he disappeared into the darkness again.

Ling Chen's giggles then sounded. Ever since XueLeng followed Yu BingYan into the Ling Mansion, Ling Chen acted like a cheerful lass without any worries in the world, as opposed to her usual cold demeanor, under Ling Tian's command.

After following Ling Tian for so many years and acting alongside him, Ling Chen's acting skills was extremely well trained under Ling Tian. If she were to be placed in the modern day generation, she would definitely be someone like Zhang ZiYi and Liu YiFei. [1]

Behind Ling Chen, there was a black dressed young man who seemed a little too stiff. A sharp face with distinct body shape. Every single action he took seemed to be rhythmic. Like a hunter out searching for prey, he was emanating a vicious aura.

When the black dressed young man entered the courtyard, XueLeng — who was hiding in the shadows — felt that his heart suddenly sped up. A dangerous feeling overwhelmed him as his hair began to stand! Suddenly, he was reminded of the feeling he felt when he was walking in the cemetery at night! That was a feeling of death!

The young man was holding a few boxes in his head. After walking past XueLeng's hiding place, his eyes did not turn and pace remained unchanged. Even his breathing was also kept the same, as though he did not know that there was someone like XueLeng hiding in the dark.

Ling Tian then walked out from the room calmly. After seeing that black dressed young man, he displayed an exaggerated expression, "Little Jian Jian?? Oh? Since when did you return? Did you miss this young noble?!" Ling Tian's voice made XueLeng's hair stand as he cringed from the gentle tone. At the same time, he thought to himself, "Don't tell me this darn silkpants is actually a homosexual?" After thinking about that, he realized that it was probably a better thing if Ling Tian was a homosexual. After all, the little princess would be in no danger if that was the case.

The face of the black dressed young man, who had his back facing XueLeng, contorted oddly and formed an odd expression. The look of zeal which he had in his eyes were already completely gone. Replacing them were eyes wide as saucers as though his eyes was about to pop out at any time. Only after Ling Chen glared at him did he snap out of that with cold sweat all over his forehead.

This black dressed young man was Ling Jian.

XueLeng, who was in the shadows, began to ponder, "Little Jian Jian? While it sounds a little disturbing, this name suggests that he is a servant in the Ling family, right? He is probably the study attendant or bedside companion of this silkpants. But why does he give me such a dangerous feeling? It must definitely be a misperception. How is it possible for a young man like him to emanate such killing intent?"

With a face full of smile, Ling Tian wrapped his arms over that 'Little Jian Jian's' shoulders and brought him into the room. Only then did he ask, "How's the harvest?" This question was naturally posed to Ling Jian.

Ling Jian's face finally turned back to normal as he stood up straight respectfully. He then took out a bundle of paper and handed it over, "I did not disappoint you. Young noble, I have investigated it all."

Ling Tian unfolded the paper and looked through it with a smile. After looking through the contents, he placed it on the table and looked towards Ling Jian with a smile, "Ling Jian, I have not seen you for a few days only and you have changed your habits already? This was actually written with ink? You've learnt to be gentle? This doesn't seem like you!"

Ling Jian coughed awkwardly and laughed dryly, "Young noble knows me the best. The confession statements which they had written were all in blood. It is still a little bloody after all and I am afraid that young noble may be uncomfortable with seeing it. So, I made a copy of it. It isn't very troublesome anyway. Hehe…"

Ling Tian then tilted his head and said, "While your young noble has not seen as much blood as you in my life, I have still seen plenty. Are you afraid that I am disgusted? You are probably afraid that Ling Chen will seek trouble with you after seeing it right? Afraid that I will be uncomfortable? What a lousy excuse!"

Ling Jian nodded his head sorrowfully and said, "The lass Chen'er, I am indeed afraid."

Ling Chen began to glare at him, "Little Jian Jian, what do you mean? This young lady haven't seen blood before? I've seen it three times already!"

Ling Jian retorted, "You did see it before three times. First time, you fainted. Second time, you fainted again. Third time, you did not faint. Lass Chen, I remember that I chopped off a person's arm that time and was stained with flesh and blood. Who was it who puked after witnessing that and even took a metal rod to beat me up? You still didn't allow me to dodge the rod! After seeing a ghost, of course I would be afraid of the dark!"

Chen'er's face turned red as she said, "What are you talking about, who is the ghost? Are you seeking to be beaten up!" At the same time, she shot a glance at Ling Tian and immediately reminded about how she puked all over Ling Tian the other time. At that moment, she felt a wave of shame and sweetness in her heart.

Ling Tian burst out into laughter as he looked at the piece of paper, "It is indeed as I have expected. Ling Kong is indeed an orphan which my grandfather picked up and does not have any background. Even if we were to give him the Ling family, can he handle it? Indeed so! Yang family, NanGong family… hahahaha. I have always found it strange that our Ling family was able to contend for the number one family in the Sky Bearing Empire with our strength. So… it was Yang KongQun, that old bastard, who is treating us as his own puppet! That old bastard really planned so far ahead, planting a secret pawn in our family so far ahead! But for the NanGong family to participate in this matter, it is a little strange." As he said that, he looked towards Ling Jian with a questioning look.

Ling Jian then replied, "According to what I know, the person who contacted the NanGong family is different from the one contacting the Yang family. Furthermore, they both do not know about the existence of the other party. This subordinate think that the NanGong and Yang family are both trying to stick their leg into this matter but are not colluding with each other."

Ling Tian responded with a 'Mmm' before asking, "That's right. If that's the case, how will you deal with this matter?"

Ling Jian thought for a moment before replying, "This subordinate humbly thinks that Ling Kong is nothing but a clown. Now that he is already in our grasp, he will never be able to escape. While the Yang family is always at odds with us, without them, our Ling family will become the target for the imperial family to exterminate. Thus, we can just warn the Yang family a little. As for the NanGong family, since they have such an ambition, they should receive our vengeance! This subordinate think that we should wipe out their whole family!"

As Ling Jian said to 'wipe out their whole family', his face was still calm as though it was nothing at all.

[1]: Zhang ZiYi and Liu YiFei are famous Chinese actresses.

Chapter 106: Three Questions

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Ling Chen's face turned chilly as she rolled her eyes, "Why do you only know how to wipe out their families! Apart from killing, can you think of something else?"

Ling Jian gave a cold 'hmph' and scolded, "The NanGong family is audacious, daring to actually take the initiative to deal with us! That means that they must be tired of living! Killing one is also enmity, killing hundred is still life and death enmity! Then why should we pity them? Kill them all without leaving any troubles behind is the best way."

Ling Jian had personally experienced what he just said. Back then, the Blood Rose Hall killed his family because of greed but he managed to escape from them. But because of him alone, he managed to wash the Blood Rose Hall in blood single handedly three years later! That night, Ling Jian slaughtered hundreds alone with a single sword. That feeling of thrill was something which he still reminisces about up until now.

It was also that night which determined that he will be a bloodthirsty killer in this life! Now, The First Pavilion was renowned around the world because of the foundation built from that night!

Killing one is a crime but killing ten thousand makes one a hero. If one killed nine million, he would be the hero of heroes! Ling Jian never liked songs in his life, but after hearing Ling Tian sing that song, Ling Jian's blood began to boil from the lyrics! As long as it is beneficial to his young noble's ambitions, so what if he had to kill nine million people!

Up until now, he still remembered the first thing Ling Tian asked him when he came back soaked in the blood of revenge, "Do you know what the Blood Rose Hall was destroyed?" At that time, Ling Jian shook his head. He only knew that he killed to the point he was overjoyed, but he never thought about any form of reasoning.

At that time, Ling Tian said, "As a gang, the Blood Rose Hall did not do anything wrong! It was only right for a gang to commit murder and arson. If they do not kill and commit crimes, how can they be called a gang? The only mistake the Blood Rose Hall made was their moment of carelessness. They did not remove the roots of the problem and allowed you to escape! Then you, met someone like me who was able to groom you! So, the gigantic Blood Rose Hall was destroyed by that single mistake! Their gang destroyed and people massacred!

Ling Jian, you have to remember, you have to be cruel to your enemies, removing all roots in the process. Be it men, women, old or young, you have to view them all equally and must not let anyone off! You have to know — a single spark can start a fire. Since you have already decided to go against them, they are your enemies. What are enemies? Enemies are the people who will kill us if we are not careful! Facing your enemies, there is no such thing as mercy! The rules of the pugilistic world and so call morals are worthless in front of hatred! You must never leave behind the chance of a future problem! You would rather be a heartless individual then allow your enemies to grow before you! Do you wish for the Blood Rose Hall to have someone like you come take revenge years later? Ah ah…"

While seven years had already passed, the words which were spoken by Ling Tian back then still resounded in Ling Jian's ears! Ling Jian would never allow anyone to sow such a seed of revenge. If he was able to meet the young noble, why can't others have similar encounters? The world is such a huge place, who knows how many people like the young noble there are in the world? Only by killing everyone cleanly and ensuring no loose ends can one protect the things dear to him! Get it done, once and for all! All this while, Ling Jian's actions had been influenced by this statement said by Ling Tian and it was already deeply rooted in him. Vicious and merciless had already become the standards in Ling Jian's heart!

Ling Tian laughed and said, "This NanGong family, since they have already thought about touching us, they must definitely suffer from our retaliation. But, with the way the world is today, we definitely cannot make any large actions. Now, the undercurrents in the continent is already surging violently, ready to burst out into war at any time. The NanGong family is one of the large aristocratic families in the continent. If we hastily exterminate the NanGong family, we will be the spark for the war. At that time, war would sweep through the continent and this is not something we want.

Ling Jian's face changed as he said, "Young noble, with our strength now, do we still have to continue enduring silently? If the continent falls into chaos, that would be the best time for us to rise to prominence. The chaotic world will be the foundation for young noble's ambitions!"

"Nonsense!" Ling Tian scolded, "Even if the continent were to fall into chaos, we should not be the one to trigger it! If we were to take action now, it is akin to alerting our enemies and exposing our strength. Do you not understand what it means to conceal ourselves?! In such times, it is best to use the chaos to our advantage! Our policy should be to watch the tigers battle while we benefit from all directions! When the tigers fight, us — as the hunters — would be the final victor! That should be the direction to head towards! Stupid!"

Ling Jian's and Ling Chen's faces were ashen!

Ling Tian gave a sigh as he looked towards Ling Jian, "Ah'Jian, I have three questions for you, answer me!"

"Please speak, young noble!" Ling Jian bowed respectfully. After being reprimanded, the nose of this top notch killer was already filled with sweat.

"First, with our current strength, is it enough to destroy the NanGong family?" Ling Tian asked.

"Our forces are resolute and strong; each soldier of our 20,000-large army is able to fight ten people single handedly. Furthermore, the martial arts of the 36 Blood Iron Warriors are also exceptional with each of them in possession of a special skill. Besides that, there is also Ling Chen, Ling Chi and the others from The First Pavilion. Young noble's martial arts is also at an extremely profound level, almost achieving perfection. If we want to destroy the NanGong family, there is an 80% chance that we will succeed. Furthermore, we have the Ling family as our backing…" As Ling Jian said until there, he looked towards Ling Tian and realized that something was wrong with Ling Tian's face. Thus, he stopped talking.

"You're wrong, extremely wrong! First, you are blindly confident in our own strength. You only know your own strength but you do not know the enemy's strength. While you can treat your enemy with contempt, you must not underestimate them. While the few of you are strong, the NanGong family isn't weak either. As for me, I do not dare to say that I am the number one expert in the world! The world is a vast place with many talents and experts around. It far exceeds your expectations for sure! That NanGong family is one of the eight great aristocratic family which has been present for hundreds of years already. You can imagine just how powerful they must be! With our strength, while we may win, it would be a bitter victory for sure, harming ourselves greatly in the process. The final result may even be for both parties to suffer heavy losses. It doesn't really matter to me if the NanGong family is eliminated or not. At least, I am not too worried about the NanGong family! But if more than half of our strength is diminished because of the NanGong family, we would lose the ability to protect ourselves. This is something which we can never accept and a price we can't afford to pay!

Second, there is no one who knows about the full strength of our army. This is also the reason for our survival. If everyone were to know about our army, our extermination would also be near.

Third, if we really combine our strength with the Ling family, the combined force would end up becoming a large variable in the world and the target of everyone. Our Ling family would never become the subordinate of another family. As such, not only will we attract enmity from all the powers in our country, the whole continent would also treat us as a thorn in their flesh and would eliminate us for sure! Then, while the Ling family would become powerful, it would receive attacks from all sides. At that time, the day of our destruction would be near! Do you agree?"

Ling Jian was a smart person as well. After hearing what Ling Tian said, he broke out in cold sweat as he bowed in agreement.

"Next, what do you think about Yang KongQun from the Yang family?!" Ling Tian asked again.

"While that Yang family is big, it is large but impractical and nothing to be afraid of! That old man Yang KongQun is a worthless idiot as well. After being controlled within young noble's palms for so many years, he did not realize it at all. He is just an old fogey! If young noble wishes to, I can present young noble with his head tonight!" Ling Jian said proudly, without a single regard for Yang KongQun!

"Wrong again! Yang KongQun is an old fogey? I think you are the little fogey!" Ling Tian smiled from anger, "That old man Yang has great foresight and planning. He can definitely be considered a powerful opponent. Ever since the ancient times, the Emperor would be at odds with the ministers in power. If the imperial family is powerful, the ministers would be weak and vice versa. However, the imperial family is still the legitimate ruler after all and the ministers had always lost in history. Even if the courts are corrupt and chaotic, justice is still in the hearts of the people. If a single mistake is made, everything can be gone in just a single night."

"While the present Emperor cannot be considered to be an excellent one, he is still clear about the situation and knows when to advance or retreat. At the same time, he is also enduring silently. Before his strength develops to a point where he can crush both families, he will not make any rash moves and would only sow discord between both families. He would not let the families grow too quickly and would definitely not allow both families to fight each other, lest the foundations of the Sky Bearing Empire is affected. He only hopes for both the families to slowly wear each other down. When the time is right, he will then grasp both the Ling and Yang family in his hands! If Yang KongQun has the same temper as grandfather, he would have probably fell into the trap of the Emperor already. If that was the case, both the Yang and Ling family would have long been in the Emperor's hands."

"The only reason why we are able to maintain such a balance is largely due to Yang KongQun! This old fogey is extremely wise and reads the situation well. Towards the emperor, he would never use his strength to humiliate the imperial family, playing his own role dutifully. Towards our Ling family, no matter how we provoke them, he would always choose to take a few steps back, as long as it doesn't affect the roots of his Yang family! This amount of patience and endurance is not something which I possess. While people on the outside think that he is an old and weak man, he actually has his own wisdom. Facing the Emperor who tries to sow discord and pressure from the Ling family, he has never panicked. He single handedly managed to balance the imperial, Ling and Yang family. The amount of wisdom he has is definitely to be praised! Yang KongQun is a crafty hero! As such, among the three powers in the Sky Bearing Empire, the Yang family is actually the strongest. It is just that the world does not know about it only! He actually managed to gain an upper hand in such a precarious situation! This person definitely cannot be underestimate! If not, we will definitely suffer a great loss in his hands!"

Chapter 107: Driving a Wedge

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

After Ling Jian heard Ling Tian's analysis, his face changed and he broke out in perspiration.

"I have a third question to ask you!" Ling Tian asked for the third time.

Ling Jian was first stunned before replying, "Young noble, please ask!"

"What do you think about Ling Kong and his son!" Ling Tian said.

Ling Jian was first stunned before answering, "Ling Kong and Ling Zhen are both despicable and malicious. But, they are also extremely scheming. Especially that Ling Kong, giving it his all in the affairs of the Ling family, winning the approval of everyone in the Ling family. That Ling Zhen is even more amazing, actually hiding from the sharp eyes of Old Madam Ling and acquiring her liking. Old Madam Ling even kept him by her side to groom him personally. In the Ling family presently, everyone believes that this child has a bright future, with many people cozying up to him. That Ling Zhen is also extremely tactful, expressing his intentions to aid young noble in front of others. This is already a story which has spread across the Ling family, earning him the praise of everyone in the family. He also gained the favor of Grand Sire and Sir. Thus, Ling Jian thinks that this father and son pair are hypocritical, malicious and scheming. If they are not gotten rid of quickly, they will become a big problem for young noble eventually!"

"You are wrong again!" Ling Tian said with disappointment.

"I'm wrong again? Don't tell me Ling Kong and his son don't stand out at all?!" Ling Jian asked with astonishment.

"That's not the case, this father and son pair hides a knife under their smile and are extremely scheming. Being able to hide everything perfectly from the world shows that they are indeed talents with their own merit. You are not wrong about this!" Ling Tian smiled. In Ling Jian's and Ling Chen's eyes, they felt that the young noble's smile was filled with ridicule at this moment. They could not help but look at each other, puzzled about the young noble's expression.

"Then… why does young noble say that I'm wrong?" Ling Jian asked with doubt.

"You are wrong about another person!" Ling Tian said solemnly.

"Someone else?! Ling Jian is ignorant and hopes the young noble will educate me!" Ling Jian bowed in doubt. Is there another extraordinary character in the Ling family apart from the young noble?

"You are wrong about two people. First, the head of the Yang family, Yang KongQun. From our previous conversation, you should already know that Ling Kong is a chess piece which the Yang family planted in the Ling family. Yang KongQun had already been planning this for over 20 years. At that time, Yang KongQun was already aware that his own influence was too huge but yet did not have the strength to usurp the throne. Afraid that the Emperor will deal with him, he sent his daughter into the palace as a mean of seeking peace and displaying that he did not have malicious intents, winning him a few years of breathing space.

Then, he purposefully allowed our Ling family to grow and aid us in becoming a powerhouse comparable to the Yang family, allowing balance for his self protection. However, our Ling family had always been the number one opponent of the Yang family. While he wasn't afraid of us, he would definitely guard against us, afraid that we will grow to a point he cannot control. Thus, he made a secret 'Ling Kong' plan. He turned Ling Kong into an orphan to obtain the pity of my grandfather, becoming a godson!

Yang KongQun's plan was to make Ling Kong the new family head of the Ling family. Since he would be able to control this puppet family head, the Ling family will be in his complete control to maintain the balance of the three powers. If this old fellow is really successful, he will be able to retreat and advance. Once the time is ripe, he can usurp the throne. This would ensure that his Yang family wouldn't be taken over by the imperial family and he would always have an avenue of retreat! This old thing really has great foresight and laid down a frightening plan. His wit is really to be praised!"

After hearing Ling Tian expose the many plans of Yang KongQun, Ling Jian and Ling Chen were startled! After thinking carefully about the many things which happened in the past few years, they felt that what Ling Tian said had really made sense!

"Young noble is right, Ling Jian is convinced. Can I ask who the other person is?" Ling Jian asked with sincerity.

"The other person is my grandmother. Grandmother is old and sharp, running the huge operations of our Ling family for decades. Her wisdom and shrewdness is exceptional. She had already seen though Ling Kong's plan a long time ago. Thus, she took the initiative to keep Ling Zhen by her side. While she says that she is nurturing him, she is actually keeping an eye on him. It was also akin to having a hostage! The more amazing thing is that grandmother would intentionally reveal some fake news to that little thief, thus misleading all of Ling Kong's plan. She had played a fool of the old fox Ling Kong. The way she was so precise with her actions makes one astounded. The shrewdness of grandmother does not lose out to that old man Yang at all. These two fellows are really old people without…" Knowing that he said something he should not have, he quickly stopped there.

Ling Chen and Ling Jian were both in consideration, mumbling to themselves for a moment. Shortly after, Ling Jian raised his head with viciousness in his eyes, "Young noble, since we cannot touch the NanGong family and Yang family, why not we just get rid of Ling Kong and his son!"

"Definitely not!" Ling Tian rejected without hesitation, "We had already allowed Ling Kong to do what he wants for so many years just for a good opportunity. The opportunity is going to be ripe soon and we must definitely not alert him! The moment we take action, we must do it lightning fast, cleaning up all of his accomplices. Especially all of the spies which the Yang and NanGong family planted into our family, they must all be cleaned up! After this incident, we must make sure that the Ling family is completely clean! There must be no one in the Ling family with any malicious intents! We cannot allow anyone with malicious intents into our very bedside!"

Ling Chen then pouted unhappily, "We can't touch the Yang family, can't touch the NanGong family. We still can't touch Ling Kong now… young noble, isn't this too frustrating?"

"Hahaha, since when did I say that we cannot touch the Yang and NanGong family? These two families must be touched, and they must be greatly touched!" Ling Tian smiled.

Ling Jian and Ling Chen were both puzzled as though they didn't know what was going on anymore, "Didn't young noble say…"

Ling Tian sighed, "Two pig heads. I meant that we cannot touch them openly, I did not say that we cannot do so in secret. How can we let them off so easily? Hmph, do they really think it is so easy to take advantage of me? If they want to take advantage of me and retreat fully, it isn't so easy!"

Ling Jian and Ling Chen lit up, "Please enlighten us."

Ling Tian narrowed his eyes with a sinister grin, "While we cannot move against them on the surface, we must collect some interest. Coincidentally, the young noble and miss of the NanGong family are here in the Sky Bearing Empire." Ling Tian thought for a moment before adding on with a cunning smile, "Ling Jian, if NanGong Le were to suddenly die in the Yang family and the NanGong family receives news that the Yang family was aware of their other plans, what do you think will happen?"

Ling Jian's eyes lit up as he said, "The NanGong family will think that their own plots caused the death of their son. Both the families would definitely break out in dispute and may even fight each other. At that time, we can receive the benefits from that."

Ling Tian replied, "Mmm, that's right. While the NanGong and Yang family will not turn against each other and fight immediately, the Yang family will still be responsible for not protecting NanGong Le properly. The doubts between both families would definitely grow. Even if it grows at the slowest rate, it will still delay their alliance! Investigate where NanGong Le and Yang Wei have been hanging around lately. Then, this matter will be handed over to you completely. Remember to do it cleanly and lay the trap nicely. Go and think about it yourself."

Ling Jian laughed, "Young noble's plan is really flawless and ingenious."

"Ling Chen, send the medicine to my secret chamber." After investigating the medicine, Ling Tian nodded his head in satisfaction. Only a few more materials are required.

Chapter 108: Actually Injured

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

"Ling Chen, send the medicine to my secret chamber." After investigating the medicine, Ling Tian nodded his head in satisfaction. Only a few more materials were required.

"Young noble, the information has arrived. The three brothers of the Yang family had booked the third level of the Smoky Thea Tower for 10 consecutive days. They are really despicable." Ling Chen stroked an obedient hawk as she said.

"Mmm, okay." Under the rack of grapes in the courtyard, Ling Tian lay down on a bamboo chair and said with his eyes closed, "Come, help me rub my shoulders. I was angered by that pig head Ling Jian to the point my shoulders is aching."

Ling Chen giggled in response, "Young noble, this is the first time I heard someone's shoulders ache from anger."

"Whose shoulders are aching?" A bright voice sounded and Yu BingYan walked out from the room. After a good rest, her mood was obviously much better.

"Oh… I was saying that there is a little pig sleeping in my room. She is snoring to the point my shoulders are aching." Ling Tian looked towards Yu BingYan who had just woken up. He purposefully acted like a lecher and wolf whistled, "You have a good figure, lass. Come, let this young noble hug you. Hahaha…"

"Annoying!" Yu BingYan stomped her feet bitterly. While her face wasn't red due to her disguise, her neck and ears were bright red, looking like a carnelian gem under the sun, "Since when did I snore? I wouldn't snore!"

"Ah? You can ask Ling Chen if you don't believe me. You were snoring to the point the rack of grapes almost fell down. In fact, it was Ling Chen who went to support it. Am I right, Ling Chen?" Ling Tian winked at Ling Chen.

Ling Chen was already bursting out into laughter while holding on to her belly as she leaned onto the bamboo chair. With her sides aching from laughter, how was it possible for her to find the strength to answer Ling Tian.

"You! You… I'm going to bite you to death!" Yu BingYan brandished her nails and plunged towards Ling Tian. Before she even had the chance to bite him, that bamboo chair could no longer take the three of their weights. With a crumbling sound, it died of old age and the three of them hit the floor. While Ling Tian was able to avoid Yu BingYan, he was afraid that she would injure herself. However, he never imagined the bamboo chair to be so weak, crumbling into pieces in such a crucial time. With a sigh, Ling Tian used each of his arms to grab both the ladies in front of him as he became the meat cushion. After all, a man has got to take some responsibility.

But this responsibility will require him to pay a price at times…

"Bang!" "Aiyah!" "Ah!" Ling Chen's and Yu BingYan's forehead bumped into each other and they let out a shriek.

Yu BingYan rubbed her forehead and complained, "Sister Ling Chen, your head is so hard!" She then turned and looked at Ling Tian, "Your bones are injuring me. Why didn't you eat some more to grow more meat!"

Ling Tian grimaced in pain as he said weakly, "Both of you ladies are going to squash me to death with your weight. My poor bum still has bamboo pieces underneath it."

Ling Chen and Yu BingYan exclaimed together, getting up from Ling Tian's body as quickly as they could. Ling Chen was extremely agile and got up in any instant. As for Yu BingYan, she was a little weaker and could only sit up with difficulty after using Ling Tian's body as support. Following which, Yu BingYan could hear sounds of hissing. As she turned to look, she saw Ling Tian's face grimacing in pain with his face full of perspiration. She could not help but ask with shock, "Tian'ge, are you alright? Is it painful?"

Ling Tian grit his teeth and continued to say, "Please stand up quickly… I am going to die already… mother…"

Yu BingYan responded with a 'oh' anxiously as she exerted strength with both her strengths to push herself up. However, she heard Ling Tian give a grunt as both his eyes looked as though they were about to pop out. Only at this moment did Yu BingYan feel that there is something wrong with the feeling in her hands. Looking down, one of her hand was on Ling Tian's ribs and the other in the middle of his legs. Furthermore, there seems to be something… strange… err...

"Ah!!" Yu BingYan sat there in a daze for a moment before realizing what she had grabbed. She let out a high pitched shriek as she quickly pushed herself up again. Following a cry of agony from Ling Tian, Yu BingYan covered her face which was burning red as she darted into a room like a rabbit chased by a wolf. Her neck, which was exposed out of her collars, was completely bright red.

Ling Tian was no longer acting anymore. Even if he had Xian Tian Inner Qi, his most sensitive part as a man was just as weak as every other man! This is without exception!

Furthermore, Ling Tian is still an extremely normal man. When both the ladies had 'squashed' him, Ling Tian had already felt uncomfortable and could not control his reaction. It was a normal reaction, and also a large reaction! When this reaction was large to a certain point, Yu BingYan had used that 'reaction' as her support, pressing down hard on it. It was just like a firm metal pole receiving a powerful impact. Ling Tian felt his body tremble as he almost fainted on the spot.

His whole body began to tremble as cold sweat filled his face. For the first time, Ling Tian slouched in weakness as he stood up like a curled up prawn with his face trembling. Ever since he came to this world, this was the first time he experienced a serious injury. Furthermore, it was right before he was going to… Ling Tian let out a long sigh and wanted to cry! It seems that he would take at least three days to have a full recovery…

There is a large price to pay for responsibility…

Ling Chen's face was also bright red and her eyes were darting around, not daring to stare at Ling Tian's eyes. She did not know where to place her hands as she fiddled her fingers anxiously. While she really wanted to take care of Ling Tian, Ling Chen just did not have that… Without experience, she could only watch by the side anxiously.

With a flash, XueLeng — who was in the shadows — appeared in front of Ling Tian, "Shiiiiing". A long sword was pulled out of its sheath and pointed at Ling Tian's neck, making him feel goose bumps from the energy emanating from the sword. With a cold an enraged expression, XueLeng scolded, "Speak! What did you do to the little princess?!"

Afraid that the little princess would blame him for being too near and affecting her mood, together with the fact that the little princess was sleeping, XueLeng had hid himself in a place slightly further away. But as XueLeng heard that high pitched shriek from her, he was frightened to the point his heart stopped beating for a moment! He could not be bothered to conceal himself and sprinted over.

Ling Tian frowned with a slouched back, with one of his hands rubbing his crotch gently with a pathetic face. After hearing XueLeng's rude words, he could not help but feel angered. If not for the fact that he was immobile presently, he would have definitely flew into a rage, "F**k! What can I do to your little princess? Go and ask what your little princess did to me! I also won't be able to do anything for some time already!"

As XueLeng saw Ling Tian rubbing his crotch with a depressed face, he immediately knew that Ling Tian was injured in that sensitive spot. In that moment, he was filled with an urge to laugh and fly into a rage at the same time, "If you didn't attempt to do something to the little princess, how would you be injured there?" As he said that, he regretted immediately. No matter the truth of that statement, the little princess's reputation would be greatly affected if this were to be spread out. These words of his should not have been said!

Ling Tian slowly straightened his back as he limped slowly in front of XueLeng and whispered into his ears, "Not to mention the fact that I didn't do anything, even if I wanted to do anything, I had plenty of opportunities to do it and not let you guys hear a thing in the past few days. Dumb donkey! Scram!" He pushed XueLeng's sword away and shoved XueLeng to the side. XueLeng was dumbfounded on the spot as he thought, "He scolded me! He actually scolded me! How bold of him!"

Ever since XueLeng started practising martial arts, even Yu ManLou had not scolded him before. Now, a little brat actually scolded him so arrogantly! In that moment, he was angered silly and did not have a chance to react.

He did not notice that Ling Tian had already shoved him to the side, as anger brewed in his heart. A long while later, XueLeng roared, "Ling Tian! You &#(!@^#* dare to scold me? This daddy here will definitely teach you a lesson!" As he looked around, he realized that apart from the broken bamboo chair, the whole yard was empty. Even Ling Chen, who was standing there previously, had already disappeared.

XueLeng then thought again, "It seems that this fellow is really seriously injured. At least, the little princess will be safe in the short run. He could not help but be determined to send the little princess back to the Yu family. This silkpants Ling Tian just posed far too huge a threat for the little princess. What kind of a person is he… having such contact with the little princess in just a mere few days."

In the room, Ling Tian was lying in bed with a bitter expression. It seems like he had really received a serious injury. Even if he was an unparalleled expert, his inner Qi just wasn't useful now! Yu BingYan and Ling Chen looked towards him as their shoulders trembled slightly every now and then, as though they were having great trouble holding in their laughter.

The sound of XueLeng's roar sounded and Ling Tian gave a long sigh, "Poor fellow, I scolded him an hour ago and he only reacted now! He is just too… sensitive!"

"Hahaha…" The both of them could no longer hold back their laughter as they heard what Ling Tian said. The next moment, they laughed to the point tears began to roll out as they held onto the sides of their stomachs.

Ling Tian then whined, "Little sister, if this brother is going to be… you will have to take responsibility. This brother is counting on you." After stopping her laughter with great effort, she replied him with a 'tsk'. However, her heart was filled with a sense of longing…

Chapter 109: Massacre in the Streets

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: celllll

The darkness of the night settled down like water, as the time drew near to midnight. The wind whistled through, causing the dust and sand to swirl up, being scattered in the air much like mist or fog.

This silent street was only lit by the cold moonbeams. Not far ahead, the Smoky Thea Tower was still ablaze with lit lanterns, as the indistinct sound of musical instruments travelled from there. This made the street even more cheerless.

Following the sound of drunken hiccups, as well as slurred speech, a procession of people walked closer in twos and threes. The troops of a hundred-odd people walked slowly in an undisciplined fashion, causing the entire squad to be delayed.

After indulging in good food and wine, NanGong Le and the Yang Family's brothers brought their guards with them, as they sat unsteadily on horseback discussing some unknown topic on their way back. Every now and then, an obscene laughter would sound out from one of them.

They came closer, even closer.

Finally, the silhouette of a horse's front could be seen clopping into the quiet and long street.

A silhouette flashed past like a spectre. It shot down from the rooftops of the buildings beside the road, without any warning whatsoever. A hand wielding a longsword shone with a chilly light as it drifted without sound nor warning, stabbing towards NanGong Le who was in front of the Yang Family's brothers!

The busily engrossed NanGong Le, who was still in the midst of discussion with Yang Wei, suddenly stiffened as he felt killing intent and hurriedly lay down flat on his horse's back! The two bodyguards behind him sprang forth, swords at the ready. A third guard even threw himself on NanGong Le, willing to sacrifice himself in order to block a sword for NanGong Le.

The ghostly figure seemed to warp and twist in the air, the sword flashing like electricity. It pierced through the rib of the bodyguard in front of NanGong Le, conveniently stabbing viciously into the chest of the panicked NanGong Le.

Blood splattered in all directions as NanGong Le let out a shrill of fear. A thin stream of blood fountained out of his chest, jetting out at least three feet in length. His body slipped from the top of his horse weakly, his status unknown.

That assailant calmly retracted the sword, and with two 'dang dang' sounds, deflected the offending swords that the two bodyguards jabbed in its direction. The sword flashed past the guards' necks, and they only felt a coldness around that area before both of them fell to the ground like broken sacks, warm blood spurting out from their necks.

The masked man in black seemed to smile coldly as he kicked out with a leg, taking the chance in which the guard protecting NanGong Le had not retrieved his sword to kick him in the crotch. The guard flailed as he flew through the air, a suppressed whine coming out from his mouth, blood flowing out from all five holes on his face. Before he even landed, he had already stopped breathing. With another kick from the black robed man, all his organs and meridians were destroyed!

The horse received a shock, tossing its head upwards and neighing.

What conspired at NanGong's area had already badly frightened the three Yang Brothers. With a sweep of his sword, the black robed man then knocked aside all the weapons coming towards him. Lifting his right leg, 'pop pop pop' sounds were heard as the Yang brothers were kicked off their steeds, flying a distance before hitting the ground. The three of them hit the ground hard, screaming in pain.

The Yang Family's bodyguards collectively heaved a sigh of relief — from the pained cries, one could hear that their three young masters' lives were not in trouble, seeing how resonant their screams were. However, the same could not be said for NanGong Le who had ceased to make any sounds after being stabbed once.

The hundred-odd guards saw red as they charged towards the black robed man, as though they were possessed.

The latter did not avoid or escape, his body lightly flitting through the crowd of guards. With a resplendent flash of his sword, four heads separated from the body, shooting upwards into the sky and leaving four blood pillars spewing on the ground. Before the heads landed, another six took a sword in their throats, their bodies splayed in all directions as they fell like mowed grass. Arrows of blood could be seen flying everywhere.

The black robed man moved unceasingly around, like a tiger placed among a flock of sheeps. From the start until now, the black robed man had not uttered a single word. But, he had already reaped the lives of ten over man, like how one would chop their vegetables and fruits!

The various guards all felt a chill across their bodies.

The black robed man was just like a devil! He did not have any hesitation whatsoever in killing people. Once his blade appears, at least one life would be snuffed out. This was like the meaning of 'one strike, one kill', there was no middle ground! In a blink of an eye, corpses littered the ground surrounding the black robed man, as a sense of dread rose in the rest of the guards. This was the first time they felt death so near to them!

The NanGong Family had a few guards that risked their life to rush into the killzone. In an instant, three of them fell to the black robed man's sword but one of them managed to grab the unconscious NanGong Le to one side. Checking his vital signs, an incredibly weak breath could be found coming from him, as though he could die at any point. The guard could not help but feel panicked, even though he was overjoyed at this unexpected news. He shouted out, "The Young Master is not dead yet! Hurry and block his way, I'll save the Young Master first!" The other 70 to 80 of them split into half, one portion guarding and escorting the three Yang Brothers as well as NanGong Le, and the rest mobbed the black robed man as though they did not want to live any longer. This was the sorrow of being part of an aristocratic family — the master's life was precious beyond anything, while the guards and servants were sacrificial tools.

The eyes of the black robed man let out a trace of ridicule. With a light sound coming from his mouth, his body flitted — much like a butterfly amongst the men — and his sword suddenly shot out thousands of brilliantly cold beams. With another flip, the ten men closest to him started bleeding while retreating. All of them had a similar tiny wound on the neck and ran out of time, returning to the darkness before they could even manage a wail.

The remaining bodyguards knew that they had no road of survival to speak of. A certain hulking figure, upon realising that he would not walk out alive, raised his blade and charged fiercely towards the black robed man. He mustered the rest of his strength, grabbing the black robed man in a bear hug the moment his throat was pierced. If he succeeds, the surrounding guards would able to hack the black robed man to pieces.

The eyes of the black robed man remained impassive and cold throughout. With a 'shua shua' sound, both of the arms of the big guy were cut off. At the same time, a foot landed squarely on his stomach, causing the heavyweight to be lifted off the ground. The big guy then collided with all the people behind him. At that moment, the guards behind were not able to retract their swords in time, causing three or four of them to be buried deep into him. The big guy then smashed onto those behind, squishing them like pancakes. Before they could even get back on their feet, a coldness shot through their neck and they could no longer feel anything.

The sword in the black robed man's hands became faster and faster. Facing a tidal wave-like siege from all directions, he appeared like a boulder that withstood the weathering of a thousand years, standing stably without moving. Ray after ray of sword light flashed past, leaving only warm corpses in its wake.

The cold and dark street was turned into hell in this short period of time. As for the black robed man, he was the death reaper who presided over this hell!

After one round of killing, there were not many guards left. On the other hand, the group tasked with escorting NanGong Le as well as the three Yang brothers had not even left the streets yet. From this, one could see how ruthless the black robed man was, to kill with such speed. The faces of all present turned pale in panic and no one dared to look back to witness the hellish scene. All present only felt their scalps turn numb and their legs soften.

With a whistle, the black robed man's sword made another round around his body and eight more people dropped under his blade! Ownerless limbs flew all around and destroyed body parts were strewn all over the ground. The final ten-odd guards all knew what was going to happen next and revealed expressions of despair in their eyes. All of them rushed forward in a flurry, hoping to use the method of sacrificing oneself to bring the black robed man down. However, the black robed man only jumped up, his sword letting out a sprinkle of silvery light around him, before borrowing the force to leap up towards the sky. Airborne, he somersaulted and propelled himself in the sky towards the escaping group like a meteor!

Behind him, the eleven bodyguards stood stock still as their throats let out weird gurgling sounds. Slowly, the swords in their hands clattered on the ground as they all fell backwards, simultaneously shooting out blood arrows from their slit throats.

From the start until now, the 67 guards who had surrounded black robes had fallen in battle, fresh blood painting the scene, without a single one left alive! Such speed, such killing intent! The killing intent shot up into the night, tyrannical beyond words!

The figure of the black robed man bobbed up and down, as he used the fastest speed possible to catch up to the escaping group. At this point, the last one in the line of guards suddenly halted in his steps, bellowing out as he raised his blade and slashed down in an overhead chop! The wind was cut by the blade, a signal of the strength behind it!

The black robed man, whose soaring speed was gradually decreasing due to the lack of external force to support, suddenly dived down and crossed his sword with the guard's blade, much like a comet crashing down to Earth. Using this newfound support, the black robed man leaped over the man, stepping on his head and using it as a kickboard!

With a 'pa' sound, the guard's head suddenly burst apart, akin to a 8kg hammer being smashed on a watermelon! Blood and brain matter littered the area!