Risking Life as Bait

The apartment was not large. Yet it was kept very clean. Clearly, someone had tidied it up beforehand. A standard two-bedroom place, roughly seventy to eighty square meters. Still, in a place like White Moon City where land was at a premium, being allocated an apartment to oneself was already quite generous. Directly across the hall lived Hao Lianchuan... This Director Hao surprisingly lived in such a modest place as well. It was hard to tell whether he simply preferred not to move into newer housing, or whether his standing was truly ordinary enough that this was the best he could be assigned. Li Hao opened the window, savoring the pleasant breeze drifting past. Inwardly, he thought: White Moon City really is impressive. Truly impressive! In such a tiny area, seven supernaturals had gathered nearby, while the number of martial masters remained unknown. Two of the Earth affinity, both buried in the soil. He wondered if they would suffocate if they stayed down there too long. One of the Wind affinity, dispersed into a gentle breeze hovering in the air. One of an invisibility type—likely a variant of the Dark affinity—hiding in the building directly opposite his own. Three more stood farther away, perhaps possessing clairvoyance, keen hearing, or similar abilities. Impressive! Seven supernaturals—from seven different factions? He had only just arrived, yet in the blink of an eye, so many pairs of eyes were fixed on him. How amusing. Just as he was admiring those giant glowing lightbulbs, someone knocked on the door from outside. Li Hao glanced sideways. No cluster of light. Unafraid, he stepped forward and opened the door. Outside stood a woman in her thirties, smiling warmly and looking exceptionally hospitable. "Are you Inspecting Commissioner Li? I'm from the Inspectorate's logistics department. We heard Commissioner Li has just arrived and isn't familiar with White Moon City yet. The Inspectorate provides various accommodations for all inspectors at or above the rank of Inspecting Commissioner. If Commissioner Li ever needs anything, just call us on the communicator. If your clothes get dirty, leave them to us to wash. As for transportation, do you prefer a motorcycle or a car? And regarding meals, the residential compound has a free cafeteria, but if the commissioner prefers, private catering can also be arranged..." Li Hao was somewhat surprised. Such lavish treatment? More importantly, the Night Patrollers and the Inspectorate had practically split, yet he could still enjoy the Inspectorate's benefits. An Inspecting Commissioner was a prominent figure in small towns. Here, however, the rank meant little. Many at the Lunar Nether stage held the title of Inspecting Commissioner, and some at the Solar Radiance stage were merely Senior Inspecting Commissioners without ever securing a promotion. A City Inspecting Commissioner carried far more weight. "All right, thank you. I've only just arrived and don't know the ropes yet. Don't worry about me for now, elder sister. Once Director Hao returns, I'll ask for his thoughts. Normally, I'll probably be eating with Director Hao..." At these words, the woman's eyes brightened, and her enthusiasm surged. "Very well, then I won't disturb you! To reach logistics on the room's communicator, simply press one. Whenever Commissioner Li needs anything, just let us know!" "You're too kind!" Li Hao was equally polite, thanking her repeatedly until she reluctantly departed. Li Hao closed the door, the smile lingering on his face as if he were thoroughly delighted. "How wonderful!" Li Hao let out a light laugh, seemingly well pleased. He walked back to the window and gazed down. He was on the twelfth floor, a decent height. There was not much scenery beyond the window; a building in front partially blocked his view. Still, the landscaping of the residential area was fairly nice. It had already been late when he arrived, and now dusk had deepened toward nightfall. Across the hall, Hao Lianchuan had not yet returned. It seemed even a deputy director had to work overtime. Poor man. Since Hao Lianchuan was not back, Li Hao was in no hurry and continued to wander around the apartment. Though compact, beyond the two bedrooms, there was also a study. A few books rested on the shelves in the study. All basic volumes. After browsing for a moment, Li Hao took down several books and replaced them with volumes he had brought along. He had packed little else, but he had brought some books from the third shelf of his teacher's bookcase. They were his teacher's cherished collection. His teacher loved them, and Li Hao feared that once Yuan Shuo returned, he would be unable to find them, so he had taken them along especially for him. However, one seemed to be missing. Perhaps his teacher had taken it with him. His teacher truly treasured books like his own life. Facing such peril before a major battle, he might still have been carrying a book... How touching! Apart from those books, Li Hao had brought little else. As someone living on the public payroll, clothes and the like did not need to be hauled along; upon arrival, someone would naturally provide them. Besides the books, there was also a bank card. It held several months of Li Hao's wages. He had received a promotion last month, so his salary plus bonus ought to be substantial. By his estimation, his card likely held tens of thousands in savings. Tens of thousands of star coins ought to suffice for treating people to a meal, right? After busying himself for a while, some sounds seemed to come from across the hall. Li Hao did not go look, instead glancing out the window. The nearby lightbulbs had vanished. Even the ones concealed in the soil were gone. It seemed those people still feared a Three Sols expert. Had Li Hao lived alone, those lightbulbs would likely have remained indefinitely. Li Hao exhaled softly. While he enjoyed watching lightbulbs, having them linger constantly—watching even when he took a piss—was thoroughly uncomfortable. *Knock, knock, knock!* A knock sounded at the door. Li Hao hurried over to open it. Looking somewhat weary, Hao Lianchuan glanced inside, looked around, and nodded. "As long as you're settled in. I'm usually over at the Night Patrollers, but when there's nothing going on at night, I come back here to sleep." "Director Hao, have you eaten?" "Not yet. You haven't either?" "No." Li Hao smiled and lowered his voice. "Where is my Blood God Seed?" Hao Lianchuan rolled his eyes. "No rush, tomorrow! After you left, I asked Chief Steward Yu. You should receive it tomorrow, probably right after you finish tomorrow's press briefing." "What about Director Hou?" "Word is his injuries worsened, so he needs to remain in seclusion for a few more days." At the mention of the injuries, Hao Lianchuan smiled, and Li Hao smiled as well. Those injuries were truly severe. Several days had passed, yet he was still recovering. Hao Lianchuan then added, "I'll have someone send over some food. By the way, that elder brother-in-law of yours called earlier. His message was simple: it doesn't matter if you don't want to join the Tiger Wing Army; if you ever need anything, contact him anytime." "Very thoughtful of him!" Li Hao nodded impassively, maintaining a calm demeanor. Seeing this, Hao Lianchuan grew curious. "You're shameless enough when flattering me, so why haven't you thought of flattering him? If you were willing, that fellow would surely be glad to help you even more." "Director Hao isn't a martial master." Li Hao offered only that single sentence. Hao Lianchuan instantly frowned. Li Hao did not elaborate, saying no more. Because you are not a martial master, you do not understand. A lineage's heritage cannot be passed on lightly, nor learned recklessly! Yuan Shuo had wanted to learn the Nine Refinements Force, yet whether it was Li Hao or Liu Long, no matter how close their ties had become... had it been passed down? Had Yuan Shuo taught Liu Long the Five Animals Breathing Technique? Martial masters observed certain fundamental rules. What could not be passed on simply could not be passed on. Even if learned inadvertently, without explicit permission, it could not be openly displayed. Hu Dingfang had publicly used the Five Animals Art—and the authentic version at that. That went against the rules! Even if his senior sister had taught him years ago, enabling him to grow powerful, it was one thing if their teacher chose not to pursue it. However... he could not repeatedly display the Five Animals Art in front of outsiders! That was a cardinal taboo! Repeatedly brandishing the exclusive secret arts of the Five Animals lineage without being a disciple of the Five Animals school would make onlookers think the Five Animals school had been wiped out. "Fine, I won't say any more about it then." Hao Lianchuan dropped the subject. After a few brief remarks, he added, "I'm heading back to rest a bit. Find me if you need anything; otherwise, eat on your own. I'm not so keen on eating with you anymore." That fat man was rather petty. Just moments ago he had been talking about eating together, yet hearing that he wasn't a martial master had annoyed him. Li Hao said nothing. Leaving his door open, he watched Hao Lianchuan walk into his own apartment and slam the door shut with a loud clatter, evidently still carrying some temper. ... In the apartment across the hall. Hao Lianchuan glanced back toward the door and chuckled. That kid was quite intriguing. Paying no more attention to Li Hao, he entered his study. After a moment's thought, he pulled a somewhat worn book from the shelf. *Chronicles of the Silver Moon Martial World*. Opening chapter: *Silver Moon Martial Heroes Roster*. "Speaking of heroes of the martial world, up to the completion of this book, the Silver Moon martial world counts thirty-six luminaries!" "In speaking of the martial world, one must mention Five Animals King Yuan Shuo. Mastering the Five Animals Art—Tiger, Bear, Deer, Ape, and Bird—he traversed the martial realm for seven years. Wherever his Five Animals challenge arrived, laments echoed far and wide. None who received his challenge failed to tremble in terror... Disciples would have coffins prepared in advance..." Hao Lianchuan read with great relish. It was an old book written nearly twenty years ago that had not been updated for a very long time, which was an immense pity. In the past, he had not read it much because he had little interest in several of the figures mentioned. Now, however, characters from the book were gradually resurfacing. The low-profile Yuan Shuo; the reckless Southern Fist; the Brow-Height Staff that subdued the heavens; the Earth-Overturning Sword that upended earth and sky; the Silver Spear who died bedridden; Ying Hongyue who made a name across the realm... as well as the book's great villains, the three commanders of the Heavenly Star Martial Guard Army, referred to by the monikers Man-Eating Ogre, Chuckling Fiend, and Sickbed Ghost. Which one was Director Hou? The Chuckling Fiend? Or the Sickbed Ghost? The Sickbed Ghost seemed more likely. Could Director Hou have already been like this in his earlier years? As to whether Director Hou was one of the three commanders... Hao Lianchuan felt it was nine times out of ten. Regrettably, the Sickbed Ghost received scant mention in this book, and every appearance involved heinous deeds. Clearly, the martial world held an awful impression of the three commanders! After reading for a while, another figure surfaced in his mind: Chief Steward Yu. He checked the book again, but it made no mention of any such presence. Yet Chief Steward Yu had accompanied Director Hou for many years, and Director Hou had not gone elsewhere, meaning they had met here. Hao Lianchuan had lived in White Moon City for many years as well, and Chief Steward Yu's appearance was remarkably eerie, remarkably unusual. What kind of inspiration could this book offer him? In the past, he hadn't cared. Now, truth be told, he didn't care either, but curiosity gnawed at him. He desperately wanted to uncover the truth: what was Chief Steward Yu's identity? He read through passage by passage, recalling everything about Chief Steward Yu... After a long time, near the end of the book, he spotted a brief excerpt... "The Sickbed Ghost gave up on killing her. She was also one of the few martial masters to escape his clutches alive. The martial world has fallen into chaos, supernaturals are rising across the Central Region, and the martial arts world must withdraw from this era... Ying Hongyue has departed, Sky Sword has departed; they have all chosen to leave..." Hao Lianchuan read it for a while, then flipped through the pages once more. After flipping back and forth for a long time, he suddenly laughed. "No way, could it be?" His laugh carried a hint of cunning and disbelief. Soon, he closed the book with a chuckle. *Perhaps... I know who you are now.* His thoughts turned to tomorrow's gathering of martial masters. He wondered whether he would see several legendary figures from the book tomorrow. More than twenty years ago, those individuals had been living legends, unobtainable heights. Now, after lying dormant for so many years, they seemed to be reawakening one after another. Among the thirty-six figures on the Silver Moon Heroes Roster, how many were still alive today? ... While Hao Lianchuan read, Li Hao had no inclination to pick up a book. His muscles twitched and surged as the Nine Refinements Force erupted again and again, over and over. Without reaching the ninth refinement, grasping force was exceedingly difficult. Yet this was the easiest force for Li Hao to master. By completing the ninth refinement, he could naturally and smoothly comprehend the water force, only needing to transform it into the water sword force. *The seventh layer is almost ready...* Previously, Li Hao could only manage six stacked layers. This was not a matter of growing physically stronger; it required tens of millions of repetitions to hone. Li Hao simply hadn't spent enough time refining it. If he could swiftly complete nine stacked layers and master a second force, integrating it into his sword momentum to form the water sword force, Li Hao could begin his second round of nurturing spirits within the five viscera. *Five viscera, five forces... What about the four limbs? I command wind, rain, thunder, and lightning—how should I integrate them?* Li Hao pondered. He gently pushed out a palm. The strike seemed soft, yet a stream of inner force shot forward, visible to the naked eye—one, two, three, four, five... In an instant, seven stacked layers completed! The execution was swift, yet the seven distinct surges of force remained discernible. "Too slow... and too obvious!" Li Hao shook his head slightly. The Nine Refinements Force was extraordinarily powerful, yet regrettably, aside from sheer offensive power, it offered nothing else! To Li Hao, however, that hardly mattered. He had finally managed seven stacked layers. The ninth would likely take a bit more time. "People say White Moon City has an ocean... Looking at the map, there truly is a sea to the east of White Moon City. Perhaps I should go see what the ocean waves look like. Are ocean waves... truly that formidable?" He had never seen the sea, never felt its boundless mutability. Supposedly seawater was salty, and people living by the sea could eat seafood every day. Salty seawater, soft and damp sandy beaches... He had even heard that some women enjoyed sunbathing on the beach without clothes... Perhaps his teacher would like that. Li Hao didn't care; he simply wanted to see the sea. Martial arts demanded diligent practice! No matter how strong one became, neglecting to use or train would cause one's martial path to decay. The small room was poorly suited for practicing fist forms, but Li Hao still leaped and flipped around for a while, circulating his inner force to temper his five viscera until late into the night before finally falling asleep. As Li Hao's apartment quieted down, next door, Hao Lianchuan rubbed his eyes, switched off the lights, and drifted off to sleep. Li Hao's first night in White Moon City passed quietly. ... September 5th. The sky was clear and bright. Early in the morning, the entrance to the Night Patrollers' building was already packed with people. Arriving earliest, Deputy Director Zhou frowned slightly, disliking the clamor. Yet among these people, there were some whom even he could not easily handle. Standing at the entrance, he said in a deep voice, "You are all senior experts. Please observe some decorum. Work hours have not yet begun. At nine o'clock sharp, Li Hao will appear. Please wait next door at the briefing venue. Why linger here?" From the crowd, an elderly man with white hair spoke up urgently: "It's not that we don't observe rules, but your Night Patrollers start work far too late! As martial masters, one must sleep early and rise early. Who doesn't show up before nine o'clock..." These martial masters had arrived very early. Some had never left, waiting outside through the night. They had assumed Li Hao would arrive at first light. Good grief, eight o'clock had come and gone without a trace of him. Was this kid even a martial master? The Night Patrollers' system... This was the first time everyone realized how lax it was. When martial masters ran schools, shouts and practice began as early as five or six in the morning. Supernaturals were truly blessed by the heavens—they didn't even need to train hard! These veteran martial masters felt both envy and jealousy, mixed with a trace of disdain. How much combat capability could such supernaturals possess? Alas, they could only envy. Supernaturals had become orthodox, while martial masters had long since declined like the setting sun. Rising earlier than a rooster was useless; practicing at the crack of dawn would only invite mockery from supernaturals. Practicing martial arts all year round could not match someone casually absorbing a bit of mysterious energy. While the crowd grumbled, a car pulled up. Li Hao stepped out first, followed by Hao Lianchuan. Seeing so many people, Li Hao quickly spoke up: "Seniors, my apologies! I woke up early and wanted to rush over, but I didn't know the way and ended up having to come with Uncle Hao, keeping everyone waiting!" After offering polite excuses, he immediately said, "Please take your seats at the briefing venue next door, seniors. I'll be right over." Seeing Li Hao arrive in person and hearing his courteous words, the crowd chose to disperse. Their previous impatience had stemmed from his absence. Now that the man had arrived, their hearts were at ease. Before long, the martial masters vanished in the blink of an eye. Some of them appeared to be merely at the Ten-Slayer realm; who knew how the Night Patrollers had arranged things to let even Ten-Slayer practitioners inside. Stepping out of the car, Hao Lianchuan checked the time and chuckled. Eager indeed! Glancing out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of someone and smiled again. It seemed the martial masters were not the only ones in a hurry—others were just as anxious! "Tidy up, then head over in a bit!" Hao Lianchuan told Li Hao, adding, "Don't worry, it's right next door to the Night Patrollers. Nothing major will happen. Just don't speak carelessly!" "Understood!" Li Hao nodded and followed him inside. Many Night Patrollers looked on curiously. They also knew about today's event and that certain information was to be made public, so they all hoped to catch wind of it in advance. Unfortunately, they were not well acquainted with Li Hao. Still, there were familiar faces. Those who had explored the ruins with him recognized him. As soon as Hao Lianchuan walked away, Huang Yun leaned over and asked curiously, "Li Hao, does the Blood God Seed truly have that great of an effect on martial masters?" Li Hao nodded. "Elder Huang, would I deceive everyone about this?" With a smile, he added, "Everyone will find out shortly. Are you going to watch, Elder Huang?" "I'd like to... but..." "Then just go ahead," Li Hao said pleasantly. "It's no great secret; it's about to be made public anyway. It's nothing." Huang Yun chuckled and nodded. Indeed, he wanted to join the excitement and catch the gossip. As they chatted, a receptionist in the hall quickly spoke up: "Commissioner Li, Director Hao wants you to go up to the fourth floor, to Secretary Yu's office!" "Thank you!" Li Hao expressed his thanks, his heart stirring with excitement. Was the Rising Light-level Blood God Seed about to be handed over to him? ... Fourth floor. Many people came and went—secretaries, drivers, and the like. It was relatively quiet, with everyone attending to tasks in service of the directors. Chief Steward Yu had a private office here. It was large, even larger than Hao Lianchuan's. He knocked. A cold, clear voice responded from within. Li Hao entered. He snapped to attention with a respectful salute. "Greetings, Secretary-General Yu!" Li Hao stood with his back straight. Across the desk, Chief Steward Yu glanced at him and gave a slight nod. Without a word, she retrieved a box from her drawer and opened it, revealing ten red pills inside. "This is the Blood God Seed left behind after Red Hair was slain that day. Because your strength is insufficient, the director divided its energy into ten portions! Rising Light essentially means Nine Sols. An early Solar Radiance corresponds to One Sol, while peak Solar Radiance approaches Three Sols. The Three Sols realm starts at Three Sols, and Nine Sols represents the peak. "Even though this Rising Light-level Blood God Seed has been divided into ten portions, the potency of each portion vastly exceeds that of Solar Radiance-level Blood God Seeds..." She cut straight to the point, speaking crisply. "You are only at the culmination of the Hundred-Breaker realm. The energy in just one of these seeds exceeds the sum of all your inner force. Therefore, I advise you to take them only after reaching the Thousand-Combat realm. Take one at a time; each will take you roughly a month to digest. "Over the course of a year, taking all of them will be enough to double your inner force!" Li Hao listened attentively, then asked in slight confusion, "Secretary-General Yu, does that mean the potency of one of these is only slightly stronger than a Solar Radiance one?" What a pity! Why divide it? If divided like this, a Rising Light seed would only be slightly stronger than ten Solar Radiance seeds... He knew the effects of Solar Radiance seeds well enough; they were merely decent. That would completely deflate his expectations for the Rising Light level! That would be deeply disappointing! He hadn't asked them to divide it. He knew an intact seed was far more potent. At times, it wasn't merely about the total volume of energy, but its intensity and structural wholeness. Consuming ten Solar Radiance seeds together was unequivocally inferior to consuming a single Rising Light seed! A Rising Light seed existed as a unified whole. Its value was on an entirely different level! A single ten-jin watermelon was bound to taste better than ten one-jin watermelons, because one-jin watermelons weren't even ripe. Chief Steward Yu glanced at him and smiled. "If you feel dividing it diminishes the effect... you can take several at once. Rest assured, these were carved from a single whole. If you aren't afraid of dying, swallowing all ten at once will yield the Rising Light effect! However, I don't recommend you do that. The director divided it for his own reasons, fearing you might burst!" That was a relief! Li Hao beamed. "Thank you, Director, and thank you, Secretary-General Yu!" "No need to thank me!" Chief Steward Yu spoke coldly and casually: "Besides, this was traded for your sword. The director asked me to inquire: do you know the method to unseal that sword?" Even if it wasn't the Li family's sword, it was certainly not ordinary. Thus, even suspecting it wasn't the genuine article, Hou Xiaochen didn't mind. If the sword was a sealed Origin God Armament, the trade was still worthwhile. Li Hao shook his head. Chief Steward Yu didn't dwell on it. Not knowing was fine. "At the briefing shortly, remember one thing: emphasize the effects of the Blood God Seed... Beyond that, feel free to improvise!" "Yes!" Li Hao saluted with a solemn expression. "Go on!" "Understood!" Li Hao accepted the box, tucked it into his pocket, and left, thoroughly thrilled. Watching Li Hao exit the office, Chief Steward Yu frowned slightly. She stared at the doorway for a long moment, then shook her head gently without a word. Li Hao had most likely reached the Thousand-Combat realm! This could be inferred from the director's reaction that day. That was not important! It wasn't as if she had never seen a Thousand-Combat master. What intrigued her more was whether Li Hao's Thousand-Combat realm was the same as Yuan Shuo's. Likely not. Moreover, he hadn't condensed the Five Animals force, only sword momentum... This kid was actually abandoning the Five Animals path, and Yuan Shuo hadn't stopped him. That was the crux. Forsaking an established path to pursue sword momentum... Back then, none of the Seven Swords had matched Yuan Shuo. How formidable had Sky Sword been? And what was the outcome? Did Yuan Shuo truly believe his disciple could achieve greater heights along the sword path than through the Five Animals? Doubts lingered in her heart. Yet, what did it matter? No matter how strong Yuan Shuo was, she didn't think much of it. Even at his peak, he might not match the director. Even though Yuan Shuo had suppressed an entire era back then, it was simply because the director hadn't bothered with him. A faint smile appeared on Chief Steward Yu's face. Soon, the smile faded. White Moon City had been chaotic lately... No matter. Once the director emerged, all problems would naturally be resolved. If the turmoil continued, perhaps she ought to do something herself. ... If the Night Patrollers' building was an antique, then the briefing venue was utterly modern. A vast hall with dazzling lighting, comfortable seating, and refreshments including tea and pastries. The first floor held standard seating, while the second floor featured private booths. It seemed they had borrowed an auction hall from some organization, lending an air of mystery to the setting. Representatives from major factions and powerful figures, including individuals from key institutions, had all arrived. They headed straight for the second-floor booths, drawing some attention, though no one objected. Li Hao had already taken his seat at the center of the stage below. Two people flanked him to hold down the fort. Deputy Director Zhou sat on the left. This peak Solar Radiance figure seemed to have undergone some transformation after entering the ruins, perhaps currently transitioning toward Three Sols. To Li Hao's right sat Wang Ming... Li Hao found it odd that this guy had managed to score a seat. Had he pulled strings with someone last night? There were only the three of them. Hao Lianchuan hadn't come, nor had Chief Steward Yu. It seemed they didn't attach tremendous importance to this. In the hall, numerous martial masters had arrived. He Yong was qualified to sit upstairs, but chose not to, taking a seat in the front row instead. Looking excited, he kept his eyes fixed on Li Hao. Li Hao scanned the crowd in the hall one by one. Almost all of them were martial masters, though a small number of non-martial masters were present, having slipped in somehow. On the second floor, most of the booths held clusters of light. Clearly, the vast majority were supernaturals. Those without light clusters might be Thousand-Combat martial masters. He even spotted a very familiar cluster of light... Hong Yitang! To his surprise, the master of the Sword Gate had also come. *The second floor is a crouching tiger, hidden dragon! There are five or six Three Sols figures, and... is that Rising Light?* Li Hao glanced at the second floor. Silently, so many powerhouses had gathered. Also, why was Hao Lianchuan hiding up there? Beyond Hong Yitang's familiar light cluster, he spotted another familiar presence: Hu Dingfang. Furthermore, someone else seemed to be in that room with him... perhaps the senior sister he had never met. The military had sent representatives, meaning the General Administration likely had as well. After waiting a moment, Deputy Director Zhou coughed and spoke plainly: "Now that everyone is here, to keep things brief: Li Hao only arrived yesterday and isn't familiar with you all, so introductions are unnecessary. Shortly, Li Hao will call on people directly. Those selected may ask their questions, and he will answer whatever he can! "As for questions he cannot or should not answer, please do not press him! "Everyone is eager to see the martial path forge a new road. I trust Li Hao will not deliberately conceal things or speak falsehoods!" After a few concise remarks, Deputy Director Zhou looked toward Li Hao. "Answer what you can to satisfy everyone as best as possible. Additionally, representatives from several Central Region martial lineages have arrived today. They may have deeper inquiries... If you prefer not to answer on the spot, you may converse with them afterward." At these words, many eyes flickered slightly. Formidable martial masters from the Central Region were here too? Li Hao smiled. "Private discussions won't be necessary. My master always said that in the martial path, aside from the core arts of one's own sect which must not be disclosed, everything else can be shared without reserve! As martial masters, none of us wish to see our path decline! As long as no one asks about the Five Animals Breathing Technique, I will hold nothing back!" At this, someone shouted in approval: "Well said! On the martial path, aside from core arts, exchanging insights is how we improve. None of us are novices here; anyone who dares pry into core arts is deliberately picking a fight! The martial world has no such rule! Seizing another's core technique is tantamount to exterminating their lineage! Anyone asking about such things is a false martial master, and everyone has the right to cut them down!" These words resonated widely among the martial masters. Though everyone coveted the Five Animals Breathing Technique, as Li Hao and the speaker noted, deliberately asking about it was picking a fight to the death. Coming to blows and killing on the spot would be entirely justified. ... Second floor. Inside a private booth. Hu Dingfang frowned slightly. After a long moment, he glanced at the graceful woman beside him and murmured, "Are core arts... truly that important?" He was a martial master, but he did not entirely grasp these traditions. He was a military martial master. Back then, the military had collected numerous core arts and shared them freely. He knew the Five Animals Breathing Technique was important, but by the time he learned it, the martial world had already nearly vanished. He knew of martial traditions, but had never experienced them firsthand. Today offered a distinctly different impression. When Li Hao stated that core arts could not be divulged, it struck an immediate chord with all the martial masters, as though anyone daring to bring it up was murdering their parents and deserved to be hunted down by all! The graceful woman said nothing, only giving a slight nod. Hu Dingfang said no more. Below, Li Hao continued, "My master once printed the Five Animals Art into books and circulated them widely. Many people know it, and that is fine. Using the Five Animals Art to strengthen the body or gain insights is a good thing that spreads the fame of our Five Animals school! "However, there is one thing I must clarify." Li Hao stood up and cupped his fists. "Many people know the Five Animals Art, and some have even forged their own paths, adapting breathing methods to match it. That is normal. However, whether killing or sparring, the Five Animals Art must not be used in formal occasions! Even if used, one must leave behind one's own unique trademark; otherwise, outsiders will think my master is slaughtering indiscriminately, or that our Five Animals school is recklessly making enemies and killing people! "Our Five Animals school now consists only of my master and me. As for the disciples my master accepted in the past who have gradually drifted away, my master was generous enough not to reclaim the Five Animals secret arts! But those individuals must never use the Five Animals name to commit underhanded deeds!" Li Hao spoke sternly: "Whether myself or my master, as martial masters, if we kill, we kill! When the Five Animals school kills, we own up to our actions! Hereafter, if anyone witnesses someone killing with the Five Animals Art who is neither my master nor myself, it has nothing to do with our Five Animals school! Whether you kill them or eradicate them, just do not implicate our Five Animals school!" Below, the martial masters had little reaction. Above, however, whispers broke out in several booths. Those words... sounded rather pointed. ... Hu Dingfang remained silent. The graceful woman beside him sighed softly, glanced at him, and murmured, "Did you... use the Five Animals Art in front of him?" Hu Dingfang nodded. Chen Yuhua fell silent for a moment before saying, "Next time... try not to use it. You've stepped into the supernatural realm. While the Five Animals Art remains powerful, supernaturals possess supernatural techniques. Unless necessary, don't use it anymore." "Understood." Hu Dingfang said no more. Clearly, Li Hao below had spoken those words for his ears. ... In the hall. Li Hao moved on, directly pointing at Southern Fist. "Senior Southern Fist, you are a veteran of the Silver Moon martial world. You may ask a question!" Southern Fist laughed heartily, dispensing with pleasantries. "Does the Spirit Nourishing method relate to the five viscera?" At this, the martial masters widened their eyes, staring intently. That went straight to the core! Li Hao nodded. "Yes. At least my teacher's Spirit Nourishing method is related to the five viscera. I cannot speak for others, but nourishing the five viscera is the precursor to Spirit Nourishing. Strong viscera form the foundation of Spirit Nourishing!" Southern Fist wanted to ask more, but Li Hao pointed to another person. That martial master was thrilled and blurted out, "How does one strengthen the five viscera?" Li Hao smiled. "Two ways. First, nourish the five viscera with inner force, which requires ten, twenty years, or even a lifetime! Second, consume Blood God Seeds. A single Solar Radiance-level Blood God Seed can save you five years of effort; two can save you ten..." Commotion erupted across the entire hall. Several people grew impatient, wanting to speak out of turn. Li Hao gave them no chance, raising his voice: "Do not be hasty, everyone! You have likely heard of Blood God Seeds. Does anyone present have one with them?" Silence fell over the room. Regardless of whether anyone had one, producing it in broad daylight before such a crowd... was inappropriate. For all they knew, Red Moon members might be present. Right then, Southern Fist laughed boisterously. "I have one at the Solar Radiance level! Do you have a special method for us to consume it? I absorbed one before. The effect was excellent, but it didn't reach the extent you described..." "That is because the breathing technique was different!" Li Hao smiled. "Since Senior has one... nothing could be better!" He continued, "Everything depends on results. Words alone are meaningless. "Senior, would you give the Blood God Seed to me?" He Yong didn't hesitate, tossing a red pill over. Li Hao sensed it; it wasn't weak. Very good—produced from a mid-stage Solar Radiance red shadow, most likely crafted by the imperial family. It seemed the imperial family had come prepared as well. Li Hao smiled. "Senior is a Thousand-Combat master, so we won't test it on you. Senior, would you permit me to use this Blood God Seed for a demonstration?" "Of course, do as you like!" He Yong didn't mind. Seeing concrete results with his own eyes was the best outcome. Li Hao surveyed the crowd. After a moment, he pointed toward a young man of roughly twenty. Judging by his physique, footwork, and condition, he was likely a peak Ten-Slayer realm martial master. Naturally, that was only an estimate. "Junior brother, please come up." The selected young man looked bewildered, yet slightly excited, quickly walking onto the stage. Whispers rippled through the crowd: "Whose disciple is that?" "Don't recognize him." "I do—the Iron Sand Palm successor's youngest disciple. Not old, but already at the peak of the Ten-Slayer realm." "Oh, his disciple!" Someone soon recognized the young man's identity. Li Hao heard this as well, but paid it no heed. Looking at the youth, he smiled. "You haven't reached the Hundred-Breaker realm yet, correct?" "No..." "After taking this Blood God Seed, breaking through will take only an instant. Not only that, it will strengthen your five viscera. Soon, you will step into the mid Hundred-Breaker realm, perhaps even late-stage. Reaching culmination, however, will depend on your own comprehension of force..." The young man froze, then grew wildly excited. "Is... is that true?" "You'll know once you try!" Li Hao picked up the Solar Radiance-level Blood God Seed and said with a smile, "For you, this seed holds too much energy. If you were on your own, you shouldn't consume it. However, I am at the culmination of the Hundred-Breaker realm, and I will use the Five Animals Breathing Technique to help you digest it..." The next instant, Li Hao popped the Blood God Seed into the young man's mouth. The moment the energy surged, Li Hao struck him with a palm. Before the young man could react, Li Hao channeled the Five Animals Breathing Technique. Not only that, he actually channeled a sliver of sword energy as well. Regardless, the fellow wouldn't be able to tell, merely thinking the Five Animals Breathing Technique was miraculous. Instantly, vast amounts of crimson energy dissolved. In the blink of an eye, the young man's inner force surged, his face flushing crimson. Shortly after, he let out a roaring shout and thrust a palm forward, his inner force erupting outward in a physical blast! At that moment, everyone in the hall was dumbfounded. Hundred-Breaker realm? How was that possible! Li Hao announced immediately, "Is there an early Hundred-Breaker martial master willing to spar with him? He is still digesting the energy, but his five viscera and physical body have been fortified, making him stronger than an ordinary Hundred-Breaker master..." "I'll do it!" Soon, someone leaped out from the crowd. In an instant, the two Hundred-Breaker martial masters clashed. The young man who had consumed the seed desperately needed an outlet. Driven by excitement, his iron palms struck out repeatedly. Lacking experience, however, he took several direct kicks from his opponent. Yet everyone watching noticed something peculiar: his internal organs truly seemed vastly reinforced. Such heavy kicks merely inflicted minor surface injuries, leaving his internal organs largely unharmed. Instantly, the entire audience turned fervent. While the two were still fighting, someone asked impatiently, "Can... can it only be digested using the Five Animals Breathing Technique?" "No, nearly any breathing technique will work, though much more is wasted. The Five Animals Breathing Technique simply absorbs a greater portion of the Blood God Seed's energy." This time, Li Hao didn't wait for them to ask, stating directly: "For Hundred-Breakers, absorbing Blood God Seeds is actually quite wasteful. For Thousand-Combat masters, however, infusing vast energy directly into the five viscera to strengthen them provides far greater assistance in stepping into Spirit Nourishing." He Yong's eyes flickered. "Once the five viscera are fortified, how does one enter Spirit Nourishing?" Li Hao smiled. "I am not entirely clear on the specifics, but I know that once the five viscera are sufficiently nourished, if one's force is strong, one can attempt to infuse force into the five viscera. However, there is a difficulty: it easily causes an imbalance in the five viscera, resulting in internal organs exploding and causing death!" He Yong frowned, speaking after a long silence: "Indeed. I actually tried it, but... the moment force entered my five viscera, I felt an explosive pressure!" He had tried it! In truth, many had tried. Once the Heart Fire Ape appeared, who among them was foolish enough not to deduce a few things? It simply couldn't be done! Li Hao pondered before saying, "I heard my teacher mention it once. There is a crucial element involved, but he didn't elaborate. Supposedly, only with that crucial element can one step into Spirit Nourishing!" That was locking the force! The supernatural lock! No one knew this, nor dared experiment recklessly. Those martial masters attempting it were at the Thousand-Combat level. For Thousand-Combat masters, stepping into the supernatural realm was not difficult, but since they hadn't crossed over, they naturally dared not touch their supernatural locks. Yet without supernatural locks, they could not successfully lock their force. As a result, even knowing it involved the five viscera, these martial masters could not lock their force to nourish them. Just then, a voice came from the second floor: "Five viscera, five forces—must there be five distinct forces?" If so, it would be largely meaningless. Li Hao shook his head. "Not necessarily. If one possesses only a single force... Again, I do not fully understand my teacher's research, but I know one thing: even when I comprehended sword momentum, my teacher said nothing, which suggests a single force is not out of the question! Nourishing one force across the five viscera might also work, but the exact path requires my teacher to explain..." The person on the second floor asked again, "Is there no other method besides Blood God Seeds?" Those were exclusive to Red Moon. If that was the case, they would have to wage war against Red Moon, and Origin God Armaments would be required to harvest them. That was hardly good news! Li Hao continued, "I do not know, but my teacher is currently attempting to modify the Five Animals Breathing Technique. If he succeeds, it might be possible to nourish the five viscera directly. Even if slower, there might still be hope. However, my teacher has departed, so I cannot answer that for you right now." At these words, many eyes gleamed. Modifying the Five Animals Breathing Technique? Once successful, would it be taught to outsiders? Another voice drifted down from the second floor: "Commissioner Li, before Professor Yuan departed, did he mention any specific precautions to you?" "Yes!" Li Hao answered candidly: "My teacher mentioned once that the five viscera correspond to five elements; do not fuse forces recklessly. Water force fuses with the kidneys, fire force with the heart. Yet the five viscera are fragile. For the viscera to meet the conditions for nourishment, note one thing: only when your five viscera are strong enough that infusing force causes no tearing and no bleeding have you met the baseline requirement. The moment bleeding occurs, halt the fusion immediately!" Now even He Yong frowned, saying heavily, "Fortifying the five viscera is difficult. Even though I have consumed countless treasures, fusing force into my viscera now causes immediate bleeding... Can divine energy stones fortify the five viscera?" "Yes, but the effect is inferior to Blood God Seeds. Blood God Seeds are better suited to martial masters. As for divine energy stones, one needs stones of corresponding affinities." Li Hao continued, "Previously, when I was injured, Director Hao gave me a Wood energy stone. I used it to mend my five viscera, and the result was fairly good. Though inferior to Blood God Seeds, it was far better than ordinary mysterious energy." He Yong exhaled. Damn it all, if even divine energy stones fell short of Blood God Seeds, what more was there to say? ... Questions followed one after another. Li Hao answered each truthfully. Toward the end, everyone felt embarrassed to ask further, for prying deeper would touch upon the Five Animals Breathing Technique. Li Hao's throat was parched; he took a sip of water. Beside him, Wang Ming whispered, "Li Hao, can the Five Animals Breathing Technique truly not be shared with outsiders?" Li Hao glared at him, lowering his voice to a faint murmur: "Of course not! Unless you kill me and take the secret manual on my person, don't even dream of it. And don't get any crooked ideas—secret arts like this always hold back a trick. Practicing recklessly can kill you. The manual only records a bit over half; the remaining portion is in my head... So forget it!" Wang Ming chuckled awkwardly. "How could I? But... why carry it on you? Isn't that dangerous?" "Nonsense, should I leave it at home instead? Don't worry, it's only a bit over half. Even if lost, the full technique won't leak. You're my teacher's nominal disciple; perform well, and I'll let you read it." "Fine, then!" The two spoke in barely audible murmurs. Even Deputy Director Zhou beside them couldn't hear clearly, nor did he pay it any mind. ... Yet at that moment, on the second floor, the ears of several Three Sols experts twitched slightly. Inside one booth. Hu Dingfang's expression shifted slightly. *That idiot!* He looked at Chen Yuhua and transmitted his voice: "Does the Five Animals Breathing Technique have a physical manual?" Chen Yuhua glanced at him, transmitting back: "There used to be; I don't know about now. Why ask? You know it yourself—why would you need a manual?" "No, that junior brother of yours... does he really think nobody can hear him? He's carrying the manual on his person..." "What?" Chen Yuhua froze. Why carry a manual? The Five Animals Breathing Technique was concise, primarily consisting of movements and breathing patterns. Once mastered, it was mastered; after learning it, one could simply destroy the manual. What was the point of carrying it around? The next moment, her face changed slightly. "You heard him?" "Yes!" Hu Dingfang frowned. "He spoke very softly, but what kind of power does a Three Sols expert wield? Anyone listening closely could catch parts of it..." Both frowned deeply. This was terrible news! The more Li Hao showcased the effects of the Five Animals Breathing Technique, the more enticing it became. Even supernaturals would be tempted. If this continued, he would be in grave danger. As they conversed, his ears twitched again, catching more murmurs. "Li Hao, you're carrying a Rising Light-level Blood God Seed... How about giving me one? Director Hou split it into ten portions, so giving me one won't be a huge loss. I'll pay for it..." "Shut up, keep it down! Nobody outside knows about this. Don't go spouting off, you big mouth! Stop talking. There seem to be powerhouses on the second floor; don't let anyone overhear. Your mouth is way too big." "Pfft, we're whispering so quietly. Don't treat them like gods; they can't hear shit. What's there to fear? Besides, with Director Hou backing you, who dares touch you? He'd skewer them with a single spear thrust." "You fellow... Forget it, I'm done talking to you." Their conversation came to a halt. Hu Dingfang's face turned dark. After a long pause, he transmitted, "He's also carrying a Rising Light Blood God Seed on him!" At these words, even Chen Yuhua's expression changed. The Five Animals Breathing Technique paired with a Rising Light Blood God Seed—an absolute match made in heaven! Even she would be tempted. Killing Li Hao... would mean striking it rich. As for an incomplete technique, veteran martial masters who obtained half a secret art might well be able to deduce the rest. One could never underestimate those older martial masters. Chen Yuhua felt a pounding headache. Her junior brother... was far too foolish. The crucial issue was that she didn't know how many people had overheard. Hu Dingfang had heard because he was at the late Three Sols stage. What about the others? "Keep an eye on the reactions in the other booths..." As she spoke, Hu Dingfang frowned slightly. "No reaction; everyone is quiet... Perhaps... perhaps nobody heard. We were focusing on Li Hao, so we paid closer attention; others might not have noticed." Even as he said it, he remained deeply troubled. He had to warn Li Hao about this, and the Night Patrollers as well. Did they truly believe that having Hou Xiaochen around meant nobody would take the gamble? Youngsters... their mouths were far too loose! Blabbing about everything. And that Wang Ming—Hu Dingfang now recognized him as the grandson of the White Dragon Army's deputy commander. When inquiring about him earlier, he had learned the fellow was a notorious blabbermouth. His mouth truly had no filter, blurting out whatever crossed his mind. ... Meanwhile, Wang Ming acted as if nothing had happened. Inwardly, he was wondering who Li Hao was trying to bait this time. If the target fell into the trap and died, would he get any credit? Could he get a share of the spoils? His reputation as a blabbermouth was likely cemented beyond redemption. Of course, it hardly mattered. He didn't care in the slightest! Glancing sideways at the second floor and then scanning the others in the hall, he wondered who Li Hao's target was and how many would take the bait. This fellow had arrived in White Moon City on his very first day and was already scheming to do wicked deeds—what a menace! Meanwhile, Li Hao continued answering everyone's questions with earnest diligence. He focused primarily on the Blood God Seed and the Five Animals Breathing Technique, attributing all success to the two. The more people listened, the more convinced they became that obtaining both was essential to stepping into Spirit Nourishing. Naturally, for those confident enough, the Five Animals Breathing Technique was not strictly necessary if one had enough Blood God Seeds; the effect would be similar. Finally, as the session was drawing to a close, the big-mouthed Wang Ming lowered his voice once more: "Li Hao, did that Hu Dingfang fellow practice the Five Animals Breathing Technique? I heard Director Hao say he stole your family's secret art and reached late Three Sols in just a year or two, meaning supernaturals can use it too and the effects are extraordinary, right?" "Shut up! Do not speak nonsense and spread wild rumors!" Li Hao hissed in rebuke, looking somewhat angry as he whispered, "Speak carelessly again and don't hang around me anymore. You're utterly obnoxious!" "Fine, fine, I'll shut up!" On the second floor, Hu Dingfang felt awkward, helpless, and thoroughly exasperated. That Wang Ming... truly deserved a beating! Furthermore, if those two fools kept talking like that, it was over—not only martial masters, but even supernaturals would be sorely tempted! With a heavy sigh, Hu Dingfang felt regretful. Had he known, he should have interrupted them right after their first sentence. ... Inside another booth. Hao Lianchuan yawned, a faint smile surfacing on his face... That kid wasn't even afraid of hooking an enormous fish. He was risking his life as bait! In that case... let him fish to his heart's content. He slipped out silently. No doubt, the news would soon reach the ears of certain individuals.