Chapitre 45: Chapter 44: At Your Command, With Utmost Loyalty
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From the moment Su Jinyan was seen holding the coiled dragon spear, the leader's suspicions crumbled on their own.
This weapon was no ordinary armament; obtaining it required first embracing Mara-Struck form and subsequently manifesting appearances such as the Medicine King Form and Abundance Branch Form—these were prerequisites.
For these cultivators, only by succumbing to Mara-Struck form could they better harness the divine power of abundance.
However, according to the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, this transformation wasn't termed "embracing Mara-Struck form." Instead, it was described as ascending through diligent cultivation, revealing one's true immortal visage.
After unveiling the true immortal appearance, one must then imbibe the Dragon-Coiled Soaring Pill and continue rigorous cultivation for a period.
Only then can the ancient miracles of abundant divine power be invoked, transforming them into armor and weapons, granting extraordinary prowess.
Can every cultivator attain Mara-Struck form through cultivation?
No, only those blessed with Abundance, whether from Xianzhou or the Plentiful Tribe, possess this privilege.
Su Jinyan's exceptional abilities alone did not account for his high regard among the leaders.
Moreover, it was because Su Jinyan had fabricated his identity as a member of the Plentiful Tribe to join the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus.
Upon entering the room, the leader and the black-robed figure took their seats.
Unable to contain his impatience, Su Jinyan spoke candidly, "Leader, I have come here today for two reasons only."
"I've contributed greatly to our organization, and I hope you'll consider my past merits and halt the assassination plan against Tingyun."
The black-robed figure chided him like a disappointed mentor, "Great achievements are not hindered by trivial matters; why do you lack such foresight?"
"The current strategy at Luofu is crucial—our thousand-year endeavor hinges on this decisive moment, leaving no room for error." The figure continued, "Once our organization successfully rules over Luofu, won't every type of fox willingly embrace your cause? Why worry about just one Tingyun?"
Feigning confusion, Su Jinyan asked, "Does the leader mean that if Tingyun isn't killed, the organization's plans in Luofu will fail?"
The leader waved dismissively, "No matter, Tingyun is merely one piece of the puzzle, insignificant in itself."
"This role could be filled by Tingyun or Yukong—it makes little difference."
"As long as it's someone holding a key position within the six divisions, it matters not who," the leader continued. "Of course, the organization will not forget your contributions."
"Since you've pleaded so earnestly, this venerable one shall choose another target."
Unwilling to relent, the black-robed figure persisted, "But Leader, if we abandon the assassination plan just like that..."
"If word gets out, people might think the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus fear those hunting dogs," the leader responded, slightly displeased. "You're mistaken, Guard Captain.
"The reputation of Sanctus Medicus is indeed important, but it pales in comparison to securing talent like A-Chuan."
"Do we truly lack renown at this moment?"
"No, what we lack are individuals such as A-Chuan."
The black-robed figure conceded, "Leader is absolutely right."
Su Jinyan remained silent, internally cringing. Damn it, Leader, can't you stop blowing smoke? You're making me feel embarrassingly awkward. Aren't you both tired of playing good cop, bad cop all the time?
However, to maintain his carefully crafted persona within the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, he had no choice but to continue appeasing the leader.
Su Jinyan's cheeks flushed, his excitement palpable. "As the saying goes, just as birds seek their ideal perch, so too do subjects aspire to serve a wise ruler."
"My lifelong aspiration is fulfilled! From this day forth, my life shall be at your command, O leader!"
"Sun's body becomes yours, to be driven without hesitation or second thoughts. Through fire and peril, I shall not waver!"
Taken aback, the black-robed figure hastily bowed with clasped hands. "Same here!"
"Leader," Su Jinyan cautiously suggested, "why don't we change our assassination target to Jing Yuan instead?"
The leader raised an eyebrow.
The black-robed figure looked perplexed. "Sun Xiaochuan, have you lost your mind? If our organization could take out Jing Yuan, would there even be a need for you to suggest it?"
Su Jinyan appeared stunned. "Does that mean even the leader can't manage it?"
Embarrassed, the black-robed figure silently cursed under his breath:
Is this kid genuinely stupid or just f*cking pretending, trying to trap me?
If I say the leader can't handle it, they'll definitely be displeased.
But the problem is, the leader truly isn't as powerful as Jing Yuan.
If she truly had eliminated Jing Yuan, would our Disciples of Sanctus Medicus still be forced to hide and evade detection as we do now?
The leader smoothly changed the subject without showing any reaction. "Let's move on to the second matter."
"If this venerable one's guess is correct, have you recently awakened your Mara-Struck form?"
Su Jinyan raised his thumb, impressed. "Leader, your foresight is practically divine."
"Indeed, I have recently awakened my Mara-Struck form," Su Jinyan admitted. "I narrowly avoided revealing the true appearance of the 'Medicine King Form'."
"Fortunately, I managed to suppress it just in time, preventing my identity from being exposed to others."
"Otherwise, I might never have met with both esteemed leaders again."
The leader smiled faintly. "Mara-Struck is considered a 'longevity illness' that affects immortal cultivators when their lifespan nears its end."
"This is the prevailing belief among many, sounding quite plausible, isn't it? However, for us cultivators, Mara-Struck is actually a heavenly step bestowed by the Benevolent Medicine King, enabling our ascension and evolution."
"It can be delayed but not entirely avoided. Suppressing Mara-Struck during its initial awakening may be possible, but subsequent occurrences will not be so simple."
Su Jinyan humbly sought guidance, "As you say, esteemed leader. Might I inquire what advice you have for me?"
The black-robed figure laughed heartily. "You've asked the right person. Are you aware that our organization possesses a divine pill?"
"It's called the 'Dust Return Form Locking Pill.' By following its prescribed use, it can deceive others and maintain your original appearance," the leader explained mildly.
"In truth, this Dust Return Form Locking Pill is based on a formula this venerable one obtained from the Abundance Emanator herself," the leader added softly.
Su Jinyan was astounded. "Could it be bestowed by the Abundance Emanator herself?"
"Would there be any doubt?" replied the black-robed figure.
In reality, both the "Dust Return Form Locking Pill" and the "Dragon-Coiled Soaring Pill" were developed independently by the leader. Whenever questioned by other cultivators, she would attribute them to gifts from the Abundance Emanator as a cover-up. This tactic aimed to prevent potential traitors within the organization from discerning their true origins.
It must be noted that few individuals in Luofu were well-versed in alchemy, making her real identity highly susceptible to speculation. Should someone observant ponder upon it, followed by the meticulous investigation of the Ten-Lords Commission, disaster would strike—the secrets of Sanctus Medicus would crumble, bringing an end to everything.
The leader smiled faintly. "This venerable one happens to have a high-quality bottle of these medicinal pills; let it serve as a reward for you."
"Remember, this pill should only be taken once a month; do not exceed that dosage."
"If you frequently consume Shape-Keeping Pills, their efficacy will gradually diminish until they become ineffective," the black-robed figure interjected.
Su Jinyan eagerly accepted the pill and bowed in gratitude, saying, "Many thanks to the leader for bestowing this medicine upon me."
The leader spoke slowly, "A-Chuan, as you've seen, our organization has never been stingy with nurturing talent."
"When the time comes and the organization requires your assistance, do not make excuses to avoid it."
With sincerity, Su Jinyan replied, "Please rest assured, esteemed leader. I will undoubtedly strive my utmost."
"However, there is something I wish to report regarding Shen Hai; he's been somewhat restless lately."
The leader showed little surprise, as if already aware of Shen Hai's intentions. "Shen Hai? How did you come to know about this?"
Su Jinyan nodded slightly and recounted his conversation with Shen Hai at the inn to the leader. However, he selectively withheld information unfavorable to himself, sharing only what benefited him.
The black-robed figure sneered, "I knew all along that trouble was brewing within him."
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone