"Shang Junior Sister, you’re here?" An abrupt voice intruded, breaking the harmony on this side of the branch institute.

Everyone followed the voice to see who was coming, surprisingly unexpected.

Someone who was supposed to be an opponent on the stage now appeared here with a graceful smile, looking at Shang Zisu. Only, behind that smile, there was an extremely uncomfortable feeling.

Jing Tian walked straight to Shang Zisu, his eyes filled with tenderness as he gazed at her, as if, at this moment, she was the only one his eyes could hold.

Fortunately, the position they were in was just at the entrance, making it relatively concealed from view, thus not attracting too much attention.

"Shang Junior Sister, I knew you would come today. I specially arranged a seat with a good view for you. How about I take you there?" Jing Tian’s eyes seemed to be a starry field, with tiny starlights akin to the stars.

Under such a gaze, many young women would probably be enchanted by the gentle expression he displayed.

Or perhaps, being treated so gently by Jing Tian was the dream of many young women.

Yet, Shang Zisu had no response, only slightly turning her body to show her stance.

This resistance made a trace of coldness flash deep in Jing Tian’s eyes. Having been gifted since childhood, he naturally had the capital to be proud. Always having others comply with him and please him, rarely did anyone dare to oppose him. For girls, Shang Zisu was the first not to give him a proper look.

However, her cold as ice demeanor only fueled Jing Tian’s desire to conquer, making him even more determined to obtain her!

"Why is Shang Junior Sister so cold to me? Have I done something wrong, or has someone said something in front of Shang Junior Sister that made you misunderstand me?" Jing Tian spoke with a smile, completely unlike his usual arrogant self. However, the hidden meaning in his words and his final gaze towards Mu Qingge showed he was still that proud Jing Tian!

Perhaps seeing Jing Tian’s gaze, Shang Zisu didn’t want to involve Mu Qingge, so she bit her lip and reluctantly spoke: "I am not familiar with you."

"Not familiar?" Jing Tian’s smile widened, taking another step forward: "They say once unfamiliar, twice familiar. Although you aren’t in the Main Courtyard, I am still considered your senior. How could senior and junior not be acquainted?"

His aggressive approach made Shang Zisu’s demeanor even colder, her brows and eyes filled with chill.

If this wasn’t the Medicine Tower Headquarters, if it wasn’t the Holy Yuan Empire, she would have long turned away, unwilling to continue entangling with him.

Jing Tian’s pressing manner forced Shang Zisu to take another step back.

Her discomfort was seen by the branch disciples. Seeing the goddess-like figure of the branch feeling so pressured, the branch disciples were understandably angry but dared not voice it.

They unanimously cast hopeful glances towards Mu Qingge’s back.

It seemed at this moment, they believed only Mu Qingge could rescue Shang Senior Sister from this demon’s grasp!

However, before Mu Qingge could move, Mei Zizhong had already taken a step forward, blocking Jing Tian’s view. His demeanor was calm and indifferent, his aura still tranquil and distant. He said to Jing Tian: "Shang Junior Sister is by nature cold, dislikes talking to outsiders, we ask Jing Tian Senior Brother to forgive."

He intended to say a few soft words to resolve this matter.

Yet Jing Tian clearly didn’t take it seriously. Mei Zizhong’s intervention only intensified the mockery in his eyes, disdainfully saying: "Who are you, Junior Brother?"

Mei Zizhong was a divine figure among the branch disciples.

At this moment, being questioned by Jing Tian in such a manner was virtually an insult. The branch disciples glared angrily yet still feared the headquarters and dared not readily speak up to help.

And Mei Zizhong?

He wasn’t affected in the slightest, a faint smile on his lips, as graceful as smoke and fog. Compared to Jing Tian’s aggressiveness, he seemed much more agreeable.

"I am Mei Zizhong." Mei Zizhong replied with downcast eyes.

"Mei Zizhong? Never heard of him." Jing Tian raised his brows, no longer possessing the tender sweetness he had with Shang Zisu.

He seemed to want to provoke Mei Zizhong, but Mei Zizhong only smiled slightly and introduced himself again: "I am Zisu’s fellow disciple brother."

This statement truly clarified his identity and asserted his rightful involvement in Shang Zisu’s affairs.

Though seemingly without any heat, it certainly mounted a force against Jing Tian.

Jing Tian’s eyes narrowed, casting a cold glance at Mei Zizhong. He sneered coldly and ignored him, instead speaking to Shang Zisu: "Shang Junior Sister, the resources in the headquarters are far better than in the branch, even the elders responsible for teaching are Spirit Level Alchemists. Shang Junior Sister, why not take this opportunity to stay, and join a new sect? I will soon be promoted to elder and then have the eligibility to take disciples. Shang Junior Sister why not come to my gate, I will surely teach you sincerely."

This speech almost outrightly encouraged Shang Zisu to defect from her sect.

Moreover, asking Shang Zisu to take him as a master was indeed incredibly presumptuous!

Upon hearing this, Mu Qingge couldn’t help but laugh.

As soon as she smiled, Jing Tian’s expression turned cold.

Although he came here for Shang Zisu, he secretly kept an eye on Mu Qingge’s movements.

Initially, everything was quiet, but now she suddenly laughed. This feeling made Jing Tian inexplicably vigilant. Perhaps, even he wasn’t aware, but unwittingly, he had already regarded Mu Qingge as an equal opponent.

It should be said that among the disciples who came to this branch of the Medicine Tower Headquarters, only two people were worth his attention.

One was the beauty he wanted at first sight, Shang Zisu.

The other was Mu Qingge, who was also a Spirit Level Alchemist with equally monstrous talent, perhaps even faintly surpassing his own!

"What are you laughing at?" Jing Tian asked in a deep voice.

Mu Qingge raised an eyebrow, innocently saying, "Why, am I not allowed to laugh?"

Jing Tian’s eyes narrowed slightly, with dangerous lights flickering in them.

But Mu Qingge spoke to Shang Zisu, "Sister Shang, we almost forgot that this Senior Brother Jing Tian is also someone who, after becoming famous, betrayed his school and severed ties with his mentor."

The sarcasm in her words made killing intent condense in Jing Tian’s eyes.

As for Shang Zisu, who had been ignoring him, after Mu Qingge’s words fell, seriously said, "I am not such a heartless or unrighteous person; I will never betray my master, nor will I stay at the Main Courtyard."

This was the longest sentence she had spoken since entering the Main Courtyard.

And it was a harsh slap to Jing Tian.

"Sister, so obedient," Mu Qingge praised with a sly smile.

This flirty remark caused a blush to appear on Shang Zisu’s cheeks for the first time, revealing a shy appearance. So, for just a moment, many people were lost in thought.

The interaction between the two further fueled Jing Tian’s anger, making him wish he could beat Mu Qingge to the ground right then and there!

After praising Shang Zisu, Mu Qingge turned to Jing Tian, asking with a faint smile, "The competition is about to start. Doesn’t Senior Brother Jing Tian need to make some preparations? A friendly reminder, even if Senior Brother Jing Tian is eager to recruit disciples, you’ll need to succeed in advancing first."

Jing Tian wore a grim face and flicked his sleeves, saying, "Mu Qingge, are you so confident that you can defeat me? As far as I know, you’ve only recently reached the realm of Spirit Level Alchemist, while I’ve been in this realm for years! Even if you have high talent, alchemy requires experience. How can you challenge me here without even having the experience?"

"Challenge? No, you’re wrong. I never challenge," Mu Qingge said with a light laugh. "I’m just stating facts. As for the outcome of the competition, why should either of us waste words now?"

With a flash of cold light in his eyes, Jing Tian seriously looked at Mu Qingge for a couple of seconds before saying, "Very well, I await you." Then he flicked his sleeves and left.

Once he was gone, the disciples in the branch breathed a sigh of relief.

At the same time, the way they looked at Mu Qingge held a bit more reliance. It seemed that the earlier incident gave them a sense of security from Mei Zizhong and Mu Qingge, especially Mu Qingge, who with just a few words forced Jing Tian to leave; she was simply their idol!

After Jing Tian walked away, Shang Zisu bowed slightly to the two, "Thank you, Senior Brother and Junior Brother."

Mei Zizhong gently helped her up and reassured, "No worries, it was just a trivial matter."

Mu Qingge likewise nodded, signaling Shang Zisu not to take it to heart.

"It seems this guy is really targeting Zisu," Zhu Ling said with a hint of worry between her brows.

Her words caused the atmosphere to become tense again.

At this time, Zhao Nanxing returned. He didn’t know what had happened while he was away, but he cheerfully said, "You guys wouldn’t believe it, when I bet on Junior Brother Mu to win, some people who originally thought Jing Tian would win hesitated and actually placed some bets on Junior Brother Mu as well. Isn’t it funny? They clearly hope Junior Brother Mu will lose, but are also afraid of losing money, so they had to do that... Eh, what’s the matter with you all?" As he got closer, Zhao Nanxing immediately noticed the abnormal expressions of the crowd.

Mei Zizhong looked up at him and calmly said, "Jing Tian was here just now."

"He was here?" Zhao Nanxing’s eyes narrowed as he looked at Mu Qingge, seemingly checking if she was alright.

Mu Qingge smiled faintly and said, "His target wasn’t me."

"Not you?" Zhao Nanxing furrowed his brow.

With traces of lingering anger on her face, Zhu Ling told Zhao Nanxing, "That guy has his sights set on Zisu."

Zhao Nanxing likes Shang Zisu, which is not a secret in the branch. However, their relationship has always been like Prince Xiang dreaming, while the Goddess is uninterested.

Yet, Zhao Nanxing’s affection is unobtrusive, he never hopes for anything in return from Shang Zisu, just silently adores her.

Therefore, even though Shang Zisu knows his feelings, she only treats him indifferently, hoping he would retreat on his own, but she does not feel disgust.

However, Jing Tian is different.

Jing Tian’s aggressive demeanor and his determined gaze make her feel extremely disgusted.

It also makes Zhao Nanxing, her number one pursuer, feel angry.

"What is he doing concerning Zisu?" Zhao Nanxing’s expression turned grim, his voice carrying a hint of anger.

It was still Zhu Ling explaining: "He said he prepared a position for Zisu and hoped she would stay and join under him." 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝙚𝙬𝓮𝙗𝒏𝙤𝒗𝙚𝙡.𝒄𝒐𝓶

"Humph, he’s just a disciple now; what right does he have to speak of taking Zisu as his disciple?" Zhao Nanxing sneered.

"Senior Sister Shang has already rejected him, but I doubt he will give up. Before leaving the Main Courtyard, you must be very careful. Even during the return trip, you cannot let your guard down." Mu Qingge reminded them.

Once the competition with Jing Tian is over, she’ll leave.

Unable to return with them, she can only remind them to be extra cautious.

"Junior Brother Mu, I’ll go with you." Shang Zisu suddenly said.

Her words shocked everyone immediately.

The other disciples in the branch automatically stepped back a few steps to prevent anyone from eavesdropping. The five gathered in the center, their expressions somewhat serious.

Zhao Nanxing thought carefully about Shang Zisu’s decision and said to Mu Qingge: "Hmm, it’s a good idea. The longer Zisu stays, the more danger there is; it’s safer leaving with Junior Brother. Only, not sure if it inconveniences Junior Brother Mu."

His words caused Mu Qingge to frown.

What she has to do is extremely dangerous and time is pressing. Bringing one more person might have an impact.

"Don’t trouble Qingge, she has important matters to attend to and might not be able to take care of Junior Sister Shang. We can protect Junior Sister Shang, it shouldn’t be a big issue," Mei Zizhong said.

He knows Mu Qingge’s true gender and can’t bear to increase her burden.

Even though he knows Mu Qingge is very powerful, much stronger than him.

Mei Zizhong’s considerations, others are unaware of.

Shang Zisu lowered her eyes slightly, saying softly: "I was impetuous." She simply didn’t want to stay here for another moment, so she wanted to leave with Mu Qingge.

But she hadn’t considered whether her sudden joining would affect Mu Qingge’s plans.

Mei Zizhong’s words immediately changed her mind.

However, for Zhao Nanxing and Zhu Ling, if Mu Qingge left, they really had no ability to protect Shang Zisu. Not to mention the alchemy skills, just their spiritual power cultivation in the Main Courtyard was insufficient.

Moreover, this is the Holy Yuan Empire, Zhao Nanxing’s prince status is worthless here!

Especially Zhu Ling, having witnessed Mu Qingge’s prowess in Luodu, she inherently feels that Shang Zisu leaving with Mu Qingge is the right choice.

Biting her lip, she voiced her thoughts: "In the Main Courtyard, we are not familiar nor do we have any elders we can completely trust. During the journey back, in the Sea of No Desire’s waters, who knows if those scattered forces have connections with Jing Tian. Individually, our spiritual power cultivation barely suffices for self-protection. Zisu staying does pose a significant risk."

Her worries are true.

After careful thought, Mu Qingge said: "In that case, Senior Sister Shang will leave with me. It’s just that, it’s a shame that Senior Sister Shang won’t have much time for learning here at the Main Courtyard."

Upon hearing Mu Qingge’s decision, a glimmer of joy flashed in Shang Zisu’s cold eyes.

She shook her head and said: "Better than staying and getting entangled in trouble."

Zhao Nanxing also added: "Don’t worry, we will stay and complete what we need to do. When we return to Yu Country, we can exchange ideas."

His words made Shang Zisu nod gratefully.

Mei Zizhong said worriedly: "Qingge, don’t strain yourself too much."

Mu Qingge smiled and said: "Relax Senior Brother Mei, I know my limits." She plans to first take Shang Zisu away, then contact Mo Yang in Rong Country to take her away, only then will she handle her own business, and after finishing, meet again at Ghost Sea. The plan remains largely unchanged.

Moreover, Zhu Ling’s concerns are not unfounded.

From the past two days’ observation, Jing Tian seems like the kind of person who won’t stop until he achieves his goal.

After making up their minds, they rejoined the branch disciples heading to pre-assigned seats. The seats were quite remote, almost the worst amongst all the stands.

This kind of treatment ignited anger in many branch disciples’ hearts.

In the branch, they were like dragons among men, the pride of the heavens, when had they ever been treated so coldly?

However, under Mei Zizhong’s appeasement, they restrained their anger and sat down.

"Senior Brother Mu, you must teach Jing Tian a good lesson later!"

"Yes! Senior Brother Mu, you have to stand up for our branch!"

"That’s right, Senior Brother Mu, we believe in you, show the Main Courtyard folks that we branch disciples are not to be trifled with!"

The branch disciples all spoke to Mu Qingge, one after another.

It seemed their pent-up anger depended on Mu Qingge to release.

Mei Zizhong frowned with displeasure and said flatly: "If you don’t want to be looked down upon by others, you need to work on yourselves and not place such indignation on others."

The branch disciples were silenced by his admonishment, each returning to their seats.

After the facility quieted down, Mei Zizhong told Mu Qingge: "Qingge, just do your best, no need to pressure yourself too much." Although he knew Mu Qingge wouldn’t be swayed by others’ words, he still couldn’t help but say this.

Mu Qingge nodded with a smile.

Dong—! Dong—! Dong—!

Suddenly, the crisp sound of bells rang out, quieting the stands.

At this moment, Mu Qingge noticed some older alchemists sitting atop a higher platform. Their clothing differed from the disciples, seemingly the elders responsible for teaching at the Main Courtyard.

Among them, Mu Qingge also saw four familiar faces.

These were the ones present at the branch’s selection competition, apart from Xia Tianwu, there were Cang Erzi, Yuan Hu, and Li Ren.

Among the crowd, she seemed to see Xia Tianwu nodding at her with a smile. Cang Erzi also offered a friendly smile.

She reciprocated with a nod and a salute.

The elder overseeing the stage placed down the small hammer for striking the bell and stepped onto the platform.

The circular platform had a diameter of ten zhang. Positioned on both sides were medicinal materials and other items, along with a hanging metal ball. That metal ball seemed somewhat unfamiliar in the eyes of the branch disciples.

However, it was a commonplace sight for those from the Main Courtyard.

"Alright, everyone quiet. The duel begins. Jing Tian, Mu Qingge, come on stage," the elder in charge of the platform did not have any redundant opening remarks, instead, he directly called the dueling parties to the stage.

Jing Tian stood up immediately, standing out among the stands like a crane among chickens, the roar of cheers filled the platform.

What was originally a duel between two individuals seemed unknowingly to turn into a competition between the Main Courtyard and the branch.

Moreover, this fight would determine whether Jing Tian could be promoted to the position of Medicine Tower Elder.

Therefore, for Jing Tian, he absolutely couldn’t lose!

Among those cheers for Jing Tian, not only were there his admirers, but also many disdainful of the branch. They likewise didn’t want Jing Tian to lose to a kid from the branch, otherwise, how could the Main Courtyard disciples face the branch disciples?

Jing Tian stepped out from the crowd, with an elegant motion, he ascended the platform, drawing a wave of cheers.

Once he was settled, Mu Qingge slowly stood up, her red attire immediately attracting numerous gazes.

"Wow! So cool!"

"How can there be such a beautiful young man in the world?"

"He’s really handsome. His gaze is as calm as water, so why is my heart racing uncontrollably?"

"Not only handsome, but also so young with such high talent. Such a person is truly perfect!"

"Yeah, yeah! I heard that he and Senior Brother Jing Tian are both Spirit Level Alchemists!"

"Such a young Spirit Level Alchemist!"

Mu Qingge descended from the stands gracefully, sparking discussions among countless girls from the Medicine Tower. Even some of the guys were amazed by her looks, imagining what a scene it would be if this face belonged to a woman.

Originally, on Mu Qingge’s side, there were only a scant few voices of support from twenty or thirty branch disciples due to the home court. However, as she gradually caught the eyes of the main courtyard disciples, many of them also started to cheer: "Junior Brother Mu! Junior Brother Mu! Junior Brother Mu——!"

Gradually, the cheers grew louder, even trending to rival Jing Tian’s.

Standing on the arena, Jing Tian’s expression was incredibly gloomy, itching to give a good beating to those madly shouting Mu Qingge’s name in the stands.

Which side are these people on exactly?

"Junior Brother Mu, you’re so handsome——!"

Suddenly, someone cupped their hands around their mouth and shouted loudly.

Instantly igniting the hearts of many young girls.

Following that, many girls screamed and shouted: "Junior Brother Mu, you’re so beautiful! Junior Brother Mu, you’re awesome!"

Mu Qingge’s foot trembled as she was stepping onto the stage, almost tripping over.

She twitched the corner of her mouth slightly, the enthusiasm of the Medicine Tower’s female disciples truly gave her a shadow. At the same time, she sighed in her heart: ’Sigh! This is truly a world that values faces!’

In the middle of the stands, Xia Tianwu smiled and said, "It seems, being handsome does have its benefits."

Instantly, an elder retorted: "Hmph, alchemy isn’t about who looks good."

"But it can’t be denied that watching a good-looking person perform alchemy is also particularly pleasing to the eye." Xia Tianwu smilingly countered.

The elder immediately snorted: "Then let’s see if this Mu Qingge is as formidable as you said."

"You won’t be disappointed," Xia Tianwu replied with a very courteous smile, ending this meaningless dispute.

On the arena, Jing Tian looked at Mu Qingge standing opposite him, an arrogant expression with a bit of coldness: "I didn’t expect you would really dare to come up."

Mu Qingge amusingly shook her head: "Senior Brother Jing Tian, saying such words at this time, is really..." She didn’t finish her sentence, but anyone could hear the sarcasm in her words.

"Hmph!" Jing Tian snorted coldly.

Their ’small talk’ ended.

The arena elder stood between the two of them, looking up and said: "Please, Dean, give the test question."

As soon as he finished speaking, a crane flew down from the sky with a silk handkerchief in its mouth. It landed in front of the arena elder, lowering its head to place the handkerchief in the elder’s hand.

Then, it spread its wings and flew away.

The arena elder unfolded the handkerchief, and upon seeing its content, his eyes narrowed sharply, but quickly regained composure.

However, this change, albeit momentary, did not escape the elders in the stands.

"What kind of topic has the Dean given? It doesn’t seem simple!"

"Perhaps the Dean really wants to test these two youngsters."

The discussions in the stands did not affect the arena elder. He announced the contents of the handkerchief to the public, loudly saying: "The elixir for this duel is—the Taiwei Life Span Pill!"

Boom——!

Several thousand people in the stands immediately erupted into discussion.

Even the elders in the central stands changed their expressions upon hearing it.

On the arena, Jing Tian’s face also changed. Looking at the writing on the handkerchief, his expression was uncertain. However, Mu Qingge remained completely relaxed, unaffected.

"Senior Brother, what is the Taiwei Life Span Pill? Why is their reaction so intense?" A branch disciple quietly asked Mei Zizhong behind him.

Mei Zizhong turned to look at the junior brothers sitting behind him, seeing them all looking at him with clueless curiosity, he couldn’t help but smile bitterly and shake his head: "I don’t know either."

He was only an Advanced Alchemist, how could he know the realm of Spirit Level elixirs?

Zhao Nanxing whispered: "It seems, this Taiwei Life Span Pill is not easy to refine, otherwise Jing Tian’s face wouldn’t look so grim."

"The Taiwei Life Span Pill, as the name suggests, can defy the heavens and change fate. Anyone who takes the elixir, regardless of the severity of their injury or whether they suffer from an incurable disease, can extend their life by ten years. After ten years, they will inevitably die. And the Taiwei Life Span Pill can only be taken once in a lifetime. Taking more is useless. The Dean has decreed that the content of this assessment is to refine a Taiwei Life Span Pill!"

The arena elder’s words explained the perplexities of the branch members.

However, it also hit them like a heavy hammer to their hearts. Because they had never known before that such a heaven-defying elixir existed in the world... No, perhaps it wasn’t the elixir that defied heaven, but the Spirit Level Alchemist! Because only Spirit Level Alchemists can refine such heaven-defying elixirs.

If a Spirit Level Alchemist could do this, then what about a Treasure Level Alchemist? And a Divine Level Alchemist?

Suddenly, a vast and lofty road opened up before the branch disciples, becoming their motivation to continue moving forward!

The arena elder looked at Jing Tian and Mu Qingge and asked: "The difficulty of the Taiwei Life Span Pill is extremely high. Even elders who have been Spirit Level Alchemists for decades can’t guarantee success every time. According to Medicine Tower statistics, its success rate is about one in ten. Now, you have only three chances, do you have any issues?"

Jing Tian quickly replied before Mu Qingge: "No."

Mu Qingge gave a slight smile and also shook her head.

A one in ten success rate? In other words, out of ten attempts, only roughly one would succeed. And now, the duel rules allow a maximum of only three attempts.

In other words, whether it was Jing Tian or Mu Qingge, they both had to increase their success rate to at least one in three to have a chance of winning.

Such a difficult elixir to refine, it’s no wonder the arena elder was so shocked upon seeing the content on the handkerchief.

"Alright, in that case, let’s begin." The arena elder finished speaking and retreated to the side.

On their tables, three sets of materials for refining the Taiwei Life Span Pill were already prepared.

After the arena elder announced the start, both Jing Tian and Mu Qingge did not rush to begin; instead, they carefully examined the materials on their tables.

Zhu Ling noticed that Jing Tian seemed like a different person during the competition, as if all his innate arrogance had been thoroughly restrained.

She whispered to Zhao Nanxing beside her: "It seems that his status as the top disciple in the main courtyard is not without reason."

Zhao Nanxing nodded slightly: "To be good at alchemy, one needs more than just talent; it requires accumulated experience and practice. Look, after the duel started, he hasn’t taunted Junior Brother Mu at all, but instead is focused on the task at hand."

Jin Zhu nodded: "Indeed, the villain is not scary; what’s scary is that the villain is not only villainous but also talented."

"Do you think Junior Brother Mu can win?" Worry filled Zhu Ling’s eyes.

Mu Qingge, appear with confidence on stage, causing a huge commotion among the Medicine Tower’s female disciples, and even some men were astonished by her beauty. They wondered what a sight it would be if this face belonged to a girl.

As Mu Qingge slowly came into view of the main courtyard disciples, many of them surprisingly joined in the chanting "Mu Junior Brother! Mu Junior Brother! Mu Junior Brother——!"

The cheering grew louder and louder, almost rivaling that for Jing Tian.

Jing Tian, standing on the stage, wore a sullen expression, wishing very much to beat up those guys on the stands who were shouting Mu Qingge’s name madly.

Just whose side are these people on exactly?

"Junior Brother Mu you are so handsome——!"

Suddenly, someone formed their hands into a trumpet shape around their lips and shouted.

This immediately ignited the hearts of many young girls.

Soon, many girls screamed loudly: "Junior Brother Mu, you’re so handsome! Junior Brother Mu, you’re amazing!"

Stepping onto the stage, Mu Qingge’s foot trembled, nearly causing her to fall.

She twitched the corner of her mouth slightly, the enthusiasm of the Medicine Tower’s female disciples really casting a shadow on her. At the same time, she sighed inwardly: ’Sigh! This truly is a world that values appearances!’

In the middle of the stands, Xia Tianwu smiled with squinted eyes: "It seems, being good-looking does have its advantages."

Immediately, an elder retorted: "Humph, alchemy is not about who looks good."

"But it is undeniable, someone who looks good is particularly pleasing when they’re refining an elixir." Xia Tianwu retorted with a smile.

The elder immediately snorted coldly: "Then I will have to see if this Mu Qingge is really as impressive as you previously mentioned."

"You certainly won’t be disappointed." Xia Tianwu replied with great composure, ending this senseless dispute.

On the stage, Jing Tian looked at Mu Qingge, who was standing opposite him, with an arrogant expression tinged with coldness: "I didn’t expect you to actually dare to stand up here."

Mu Qingge chuckled and shook her head: "Senior Brother Jing Tian, at this time, still saying something like this really is... " she left it unfinished, but anyone could hear the sarcasm in her words.

"Hmph!" Jing Tian coldly snorted.

The ’greeting’ between the two of them ended.

The elder on the stage stood between the two and looked up: "Please, Dean, give us the test subject."

As soon as he finished speaking, a crane descended from the sky, carrying a silk scarf in its mouth. It landed in front of the arena elder and lowered its head, placing the silk scarf in the elder’s hand.

Then, it took off again.

The arena elder unfurled the scarf, and upon seeing its contents, his eyes narrowed sharply, but soon regained composure.

However, his momentary reaction didn’t escape the attention of the elders in the stands.

"What challenge did the Dean set? It looks difficult!"

"Perhaps the Dean truly wants to test these two younglings."

The discussion from the stands did not affect the arena elder. He publicly displayed the silk scarf in his hand and loudly announced: "The elixir for this duel is—a Taiwei Life Span Pill!"

Boom——!

Immediately, thousands of people in the stands began to discuss it.

Even the faces of the elders in the middle of the stands changed when they heard it.

On the arena, Jing Tian’s face also changed. Looking at the handwriting on that silk scarf, his expression became uncertain. However, Mu Qingge remained perfectly at ease, completely unaffected.

"Senior brother, what is the Taiwei Life Span Pill? Why is their reaction so intense?" a disciple from the branch leaned behind Mei Zizhong and asked softly.

Mei Zizhong turned his eyes to look at the junior brothers sitting behind him and couldn’t help but smile bitterly when he saw their innocent curiosity: "I don’t know either."

He is only an Advanced Alchemist, how could he be familiar with the realm of Spirit Level elixirs?

Zhao Nanxing said in a low voice: "It seems, this Taiwei Life Span Pill is not easy to refine, otherwise, that Jing Tian’s expression would not be so grim."

"The Taiwei Life Span Pill, as the name suggests, can defy heaven and change fate. Anyone who takes the elixir, regardless of how severe the injury or incurable the disease, can extend life by ten years. After ten years, certain death is guaranteed. The dean has ordered that the content of this assessment is to refine a Taiwei Life Span Pill!"

Boom——!

Instantly, thousands of people in the stands began to discuss.

Even the elders in the middle of the stands changed color upon hearing it.

On the arena, Jing Tian’s face also changed as he looked at the writing on that silk scarf, his expression uncertain. As for Mu Qingge, she remained composed and unperturbed.

"Senior brother, what is the Taiwei Life Span Pill? Why is their reaction so strong?" A disciple from the branch leaned behind Mei Zizhong and asked in a low voice.

Mei Zizhong turned to look at the confused and curious junior brothers behind him, and could not help but smile bitterly and shake his head: "I don’t know either."

He was only an Advanced Alchemist, how could he know the realm of Spirit Level elixirs?

Zhao Nanxing said in a low voice: "It seems this Taiwei Life Span Pill is not easy to refine, otherwise, Jing Tian’s face wouldn’t be so grim."

"As the name suggests, the Taiwei Life Span Pill can defy the heavens and change fate. Anyone who consumes the elixir, no matter how severe their injury or terminal illness, can extend their life by ten years. After ten years, death is inevitable. The dean has decreed that the content of this assessment is to refine a Taiwei Life Span Pill!""""

Just as...

When that pitch black and oddly shaped pill furnace appeared before everyone’s eyes, a burst of laughter immediately erupted from the stands.

"What the heck is that?" someone exclaimed in shock.

Another laughed until they cried, "Wow, this is killing me. Where did they dig up this piece of black coal? Planning to use it for alchemy?"

Similarly, some elder sisters and brothers from the Main Courtyard felt indignant for Mu Qingge. "How could there be such an ugly pill furnace? It’s really not suitable for Brother Mu."

"Exactly, it’s simply an eyesore!"

"How could Brother Mu bring out such a pill furnace? Is the Branch really that poor?" others innocently speculated.

In any case, Little Black’s appearance successfully caught everyone’s attention.

Zhe Xiu, seeing Mu Qingge bring out the pitch black, uniquely shaped furnace, subconsciously wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. He muttered under his breath, "What kind of weird pill furnace is this? Can it really make elixirs? Seems like Brother Jing Tian is sure to win this round." Just as he finished speaking, he realized something was off, hurriedly calculating the bets in his hand, and immediately grimaced, "What the heck! So many people bet on Brother Jing Tian to win, the odds are low but the quantity is overwhelming! If Brother Jing Tian wins, I’m the one who’ll lose big time."

Having understood the key point, Zhe Xiu immediately changed his stance, praying in his heart that Mu Qingge would win!

At this moment, he couldn’t care less about the honor battle between the Main Courtyard and the Branch, he only cared about his wallet!

Similarly, on the Branch’s stands, Zhao Nanxing said with a bitter smile to Mei Zizhong, "See, I knew when he took out Little Black, it would cause a sensation."

Mei Zizhong also smiled helplessly.

He didn’t intend to underestimate Little Black, he just didn’t want Mu Qingge to be surrounded by ridicule and mockery.

But now, Mu Qingge had already brought out Little Black; if she changed it at the last minute, it would be even more embarrassing.

It seemed they could only grit their teeth and proceed.

Mei Zizhong sighed inwardly, but a subtle warmth and fondness flickered in the gaze directed at Mu Qingge.

On the arena, Jing Tian was also shocked by the pill furnace Mu Qingge brought out. He sneered sarcastically, "Is Brother Mu so poor? He doesn’t even have a decent pill furnace? Do you want me to give you a few?"

He proudly glanced at his own pill furnace—

Simplicity in bronze color, exquisite carvings, and the totems on the furnace body exuded mystery and grandeur. Such a pill furnace was a pill furnace, compared to Mu Qingge’s, it was like night and day.

"Thanks for the kind offer, Brother Jing Tian, but this furnace was acquired from the Hidden Pill Tower in the Branch. I believe a furnace placed in there wouldn’t be an ordinary item," Mu Qingge said casually.

Jing Tian’s eyes flickered, and he scrutinized Little Black in front of Mu Qingge a few more times, sneering, "Indeed, it’s not ordinary." It’s uniquely ugly.

"How could the Hidden Pill Tower in the Branch have such a furnace? Could it be they mistakenly sent some discarded furnaces over?" An elder on the middle stands whispered.

But, who could give him an answer at this time?

Even if it was really misplaced, who would admit it?

Li Ren looked at Xia Tianwu and teased, "Elder Xia, you’re quite optimistic about this Mu Qingge, but who knows what kind of elixir he can make with such a furnace?"

Xia Tianwu didn’t retort but gazed at Little Black in front of Mu Qingge, seemingly lost in thought.

...

On the arena, the presiding elder seemed unable to overlook Mu Qingge’s Little Black, frowning as he asked, "Mu Qingge, for fairness’ sake, I offer you a chance to change your furnace?"

This was already an extra concession, which immediately sparked dissatisfaction in Jing Tian’s eyes.

However, he didn’t say much, only waiting for Mu Qingge’s answer.

Mu Qingge remained silent for a moment, then smiled slightly at the presiding elder, "Thank you for your kindness, elder, but there’s no need to change."

Seeing her insistence, the presiding elder did not further persuade her.

Mu Qingge imitated Jing Tian’s actions, picking up the metal ball and opening it.

As expected, inside the metal ball, there was a burning elixir, with flames rising steadily. Its temperature was no less than that of mortal fire, perhaps even more stable and hotter.

’So this is Beast Fire?’ Mu Qingge pondered the Beast Fire, the firelight reflecting on her stunning face, indecipherable.

Unlike mortal fire, Beast Fire was tinged with a faint blue hue. Among it, Mu Qingge sensed traces of spiritual energy, as if this spiritual energy was the key to sustaining the flames.

Mu Qingge’s entranced observation of the Beast Fire caught Jing Tian’s eyes, deepening the disdain in his eyes. An alchemist who hadn’t even seen Beast Fire was no different from a rustic villager in his view.

Competing with such a person was truly beneath his dignity.

Even if this person was a Spirit Level Alchemist, it was the same!

Mu Qingge poured the Beast Fire into Little Black, and with blue flames, it instantly ignited, licking the bottom of Little Black.

The pill furnace preheated, and in this process, medicinal materials could be ground into powder.

Opposite, Jing Tian had already begun the grinding process.

He did not use tools but directly used spiritual power to grind the medicinal materials into fine powder. Mu Qingge saw from the corner of her eye that his spiritual power was a pale blue.

’Blue Realm Initial Rank! Seems he just entered the Blue Realm not long ago.’ Mu Qingge silently assessed in her heart.

At the same time, she internally sighed; the foundation of a First-class Country was indeed incomparable to that of a Third-class Country.

Mu Qingge’s grinding of medicinal powder wasn’t as flashy as Jing Tian’s. Her approach was to simply grip it with her hand, and the medicinal materials turned into powder, devoid of any spiritual energy fluctuations.

It was as if she relied on sheer physical strength to grind the medicinal powder.

This characteristic, the four elders who went to observe the selection at the Branch had already witnessed, so they weren’t surprised. Instead, those elders unfamiliar with Mu Qingge found some interest in her straightforward grinding method.

"Relying solely on physical strength to grind medicinal materials, this kid’s control over strength seems not weak."

On the arena, Mu Qingge and Jing Tian both continued grinding their medicinal powder.

And their respective pill furnaces slowly increased in temperature under the burning of the Beast Fire.

When Mu Qingge finished grinding the last type of medicinal material, Jing Tian still had three or four types left to grind. He looked at Mu Qingge, a hint of displeasure in his eyes.

Clearly, he started grinding first, so why did Mu Qingge finish before him?

Could she be stronger than him?

Hatred flickered in Jing Tian’s eyes.

At this time, Mu Qingge stood by Little Black, placing her hand on the edge of the furnace, feeling its ever-increasing temperature. Shortly, she murmured, "Little Black, you better hold your ground and brew well. If you dare to mess up, I’ll have you reforged!"

This threat seemed effective.

Mu Qingge sensed a tremor from Little Black, and even a faint glimmer flashed by.

Mu Qingge’s eyes flashed, murmuring, "Can you understand human speech? It seems you’re truly something!"

These words appeared to satisfy Little Black’s prideful temper.

Suddenly, a golden light burst forth from Little Black, its dazzling brilliance penetrating its black surface and shooting out in all directions. The black substance peeled from the pill furnace, revealing a bright red inside.

Not only that, but the furnace’s shape was also changing, slowly transforming from a distorted form into a rectangular shape...

Mu Qingge watched in shock, involuntarily stepping back.

As she stepped away, a scorching flame burst from the peeling areas of ’Little Black’s’ exterior, swiftly wrapping it and slowly rising.

"What’s going on?"

"What happened?"

"Did the furnace crack from the high temperature?"

The disciples in the stands started voicing their opinions.

However, in the eyes of the elders on the middle stands, this scene left them so stunned that they stood up, exclaiming, "Heaven-Burning Furnace!"