Dugu Bo's eyes narrowed as he studied Yu Tianyan with a flicker of intrigue, a sly smile creeping across his face. So you need me to whip up some poison for you?Yu Tianyan shivered at the old man's eerie grin, suspecting Dugu Bo was already plotting to poison someone.
No, no, you've got it wrong, Senior, he said quickly. I'm asking for your help to find a specific medicinal herb. And don't worry, I'll make it worth your while.Dugu Bo's mind raced. A reward for just finding herbs? With this kid's flair, it's got to be a soul bone.
But what herb could be so rare that they can't get it themselves? I've cultivated plenty of herbs, he said confidently. Name what you need, and I'll hand it over if I have it.Yu Tianyan gave a faint smile,
not answering directly. Instead, his bracelet flashed, and a turquoise-glowing left arm soul bone materialized on the wooden table.Dugu Bo's emerald eyes locked onto it, his breath catching.
A 30,000-year-old Nether Viper Left Arm Bone. What do you think, Senior? Yu Tianyan asked casually, picking up his teacup and blowing on the still-scalding tea.Dugu Bo was speechless, his mind reeling. Soul beast, he thought, the words flashing through his head. Suppressing his shock, he managed, Your ability… I've only seen a glimpse, but you've got more up your sleeve, don't you?Yu Tianyan smirked awkwardly, sipping his tea in silence.Liu Erlong, standing nearby, chuckled, her laughter like a silver bell.
Which Titled Douluo is on death's door? she teased. Guaranteeing one year of life and nothing else? What kind of plan is that?
She glanced at Yu Tianyan, rolling her eyes.Dugu Bo's thoughts clicked. His medicine garden might have something suitable.
If Yu Tianyan only needed to keep someone alive for a year, those mysterious herbs he couldn't identify could be perfect. I apologize, Senior Dugu, Liu Erlong said, clasping her fists. I got carried away.
Dugu Bo's green eyes widened as he stared at Liu Erlong, then Yu Tianyan. Wait a minute, he said, stunned. Are you trying to create a 100,000-year soul beast for Dean Liu's ninth soul ring?Yu Tianyan and Liu Erlong exchanged a knowing smile. Senior, I wasn't clear, Yu Tianyan said. As long as the herb can keep a Titled Douluo's strength intact and alive for one year, that's enough.Dugu Bo's confusion deepened, his gaze darting between them. The tea had cooled slightly, and Yu Tianyan took a relaxed sip, savoring it.
Got it now, Senior? Do you have the herb I need? He recalled his strange fire, setting the teacup down.Which Titled Douluo is dying?
Dugu Bo pressed, baffled. Liu Erlong's face lit up with understanding.
Yu Tianyan leaned forward.
This is my second martial soul, Fallen Heart Flame, a treasure of heaven and earth. It can temper soul bones and extend a soul beast's life by refining its blood and soul power.
The catch? It might burn the beast to ashes instead.Dugu Bo's jaw dropped, his worldview shaken.
I knew you had twin martial souls, but this… this is unreal, he stammered. The flame's aura made him uneasy. Is that an ultimate fire? It feels like it could incinerate me.Yu Tianyan nodded.
I need an herb with absolute vitality. Something to ensure a dying Titled Douluo survives for one year, no matter what else happens.
Dugu Bo swallowed hard. I have herbs with vitality effects, but they're highly toxic. Still, they could keep a soul beast alive for a year.He paused, then asked, Why offer a treasure like that soul bone for an herb? And why reveal your secrets to me?
Aren't you afraid I'll betray you?Liu Erlong glanced at Yu Tianyan, puzzled by his openness. Yu Tianyan stood, unfazed.
Senior, I'm not hiding because I trust you. Besides, I want to help Dugu Yan avoid an early death. I'm playing the long game to win you over.Dugu Bo's cold snake eyes flickered with a hint of fear.
He waved a hand, still processing. Boy, what's the standard? What level of herb do you need?Yu Tianyan smiled, taking another sip of tea. Something potent enough to keep a Titled Douluo alive for one year.
That's all.
Read 100+ chapters ahead at Patreon.
p@treon.com/Horizons685
End of this chapter.