Chapter 713

Chapter 713: Xiyu Province Office

While Bu Mo was inspecting the secluded valley, Lolan Hill wasn’t idle either. She pondered other options. Although Xiyu Province was the closest, it wasn’t a hundred percent certain that reinforcements could be sent, especially after hearing the explanation from Granny Ge Luo earlier, Lolan Hill felt even more uncertain.

Still, there must be a backup plan or hope.

Thinking this way, she took out the necromancer gemstone and summoned its ethereal soul.

“Currently, we may not be able to reach Moshan Province in time, so we’ll have to trouble you to inform the Zhaoye Palace. Besides, you were originally a disciple of Zhaoye Palace, which will make it easier for you to gain their trust.” Lolan Hill instructed the spectral entity.

“If the journey is safe, I’ll let this bird beside me protect you; all you need to do is guide the way.” Then she summoned the blue dark raven nearby, whose black, lively eyes curiously observed the mist-like spirit.

“No problem,” the specter who was once a disciple of Zhaoye Palace replied.

“That’s good.” Lolan Hill nodded, then realized how weak this entity was, fearing it might dissipate with just a breeze or encounter some mishap on the way. She decided to help strengthen it somewhat.

After a brief exchange of questions, Lolan Hill took out the necromancer gemstone, focused her mind, and began meticulous manipulation.

Inside the shrine at noon, it was peaceful and quiet, with only the occasional chirping of birds and cicadas coming from the forest beside the shrine.

In the main hall, a silver-haired young lady sat with her eyes slightly closed. As she chanted incantations, her hair floated gently, and the gemstone before her transformed into delicate transparent threads, wrapping around and enveloping the specter before slowly seeping into it.

“Follow my instructions.” The ethereal voice echoed within the shrine, and the ghost began to absorb the necromantic power continuously seeping in.

Just like that night years ago in Hope Lane, Lolan Hill once again guided the soul in front of her to ascend to the Necromancer Sequence.

As the magic flowed quietly, the originally vague specter gradually solidified, as if transforming from transparent mist into liquid. A transparent azure extraordinary core also began to form within its body.

An hour later, the weak specter had ascended to Necromancer Sequence 3 – Spirit of Night Patrol, gaining preliminary self-defense abilities.

“I’m not quite sure how Zhaoye Palace currently practices, but the method I teach you comes from the nine profound ways of the Xiangyu Sect, specifically the ‘nourishing soul and piercing essence’ tradition. Its practice focuses on cultivating one’s own soul, strengthening the spiritual body, and using it as an offensive means.” Lolan Hill briefly explained.

Seeing her finish everything, Granny Ge Luo finally spoke up.

“Young girl, you’re really reckless. Don’t do such things lightly in the future.” She referred to Lolan Hill’s previous act of helping the ghost condense its core and ascend.

“This kind of behavior is extremely dangerous. It’s like a blind person teaching another person how to cut vegetables; any slight mistake can cause the core to explode, leading to severe injuries or even death and disappearance.” Granny Ge Luo patiently explained the reasons.

Just as someone who has never truly empathized cannot understand others’ delicate feelings and thus receives no feedback, attempting to ascend in such a blind environment is akin to gambling, and it’s the type with very low odds.

“I understand, Granny.” The young lady blinked her eyes, trying to get away with it by being cute.

Of course, she knew the dangers involved, but as one of the four original souls, she could connect and perceive the feelings of other souls, making it not entirely a feedback-less rigid process. However, such matters were not something she could easily explain to Granny Ge Luo, so she decided to pass it off with cuteness.

But helping others accelerate their progression to Sequence Three is the limit; at Sequence Four, they would face inner illusions, and outsiders couldn’t assist.

A while later, the newly ascended ghost finally condensed into a clear semi-transparent entity in the air, no longer the cloud-like mass it was before.

“Thank you, Sister Jialan.” Her voice was slightly cool, seemingly still adjusting to speaking in ghostly form, but observing her posture and appearance revealed her to be unexpectedly a girl.

“There’s no need to thank me; this time we owe much to you for knowing such important information.” Lolan Hill shook her head and continued asking.

“Do you feel better now?”

“Yes, much better now.” She happily spun around lightly, then bowed her head.

“My name is Rui Huaixia. Thank you, Sister Jialan, for saving my life.” She then briefly introduced herself.

This ghost girl came from an official family in Moshan Province. With excellent innate talents and being the only daughter, her father didn’t want her to marry far away, so he sent her to Zhaoye Palace for cultivation. This way, as a girl, she would have a certain level of strength, giving her more options in the future, and even if she married later, she wouldn’t worry about being bullied.

Unexpectedly, although she stood out in the sect and entered the inner circle, she unfortunately got caught in a conflict between two parties while stationed in the Ximushan Mountains, resulting in her death.

Her body had been destroyed in battle several years ago, but fortunately, during the chaos of the fight, her soul hid in the basement of a remote building, thereby escaping disaster and waiting for Lolan Hill’s arrival.

“Now that you have some ability to protect yourself, I am relieved.” Lolan Hill finished listening and called the dark crow to grab a necromancer gemstone, allowing this newborn ghost to enter it. After some instructions, the little one leapt up and flew towards the western sky, which was also the direction of Moshan Province.

Not long after the young lady dealt with these matters, Bu Mo returned from inspecting the valley.

“I’ve finished the inspection. We can set off now.” Time was urgent, and she couldn’t sit still anymore.

“Hmm, then let’s go.” Lolan Hill slowly stood up, bid farewell to Granny Ge Luo, and walked out of the shrine with Bu Mo.

Then, a gust of wind swirled around them, enveloping them and lifting them into the air, swiftly heading southeast towards the Xiyu Province Office.

Watching the small black dot disappear into the sky, leaving behind a long trail of clouds, Granny Ge Luo finally relaxed.

“With this, everything that can be done has been done. From now on, we can only do our best and leave the rest to fate.” She slowly stood up, gazing at the crowded and noisy scenery in the valley, raising her hand.

With her movement, her dignified black shaman robe fluttered in the wind, and the imperceptible dragon vein energy gently emanated from the old woman. Subsequently, the flow of the dragon veins beneath her feet changed, gradually converging.

——

On the wilderness of the Ximushan Mountains.

Lolan Hill and Bu Mo flew rapidly through the sky, the howling wind rushing past their ears. Wisps of clouds floated below their line of sight, veiling the barren wasteland in mist.

Earlier in the shrine, Mo had been focused on Granny Ge Luo, but now she finally paid attention to the young lady flying with her.

Originally expecting it to take several days to return, seeing the vast and undulating mountains below, Bu Mo predicted they would arrive at the Xiyu Province Office today.

After remaining silent for a long time during the journey, she finally couldn’t help but ask.

“Excuse me, are you also from the outside world, meaning the inland provinces?” She noticed the pale red hue on Lolan Hill’s snow-white neck, unlike the bluish-cold skin of the Chi clan.

“Yes, though strictly speaking, I actually come from the Western Continent.” The young lady’s soft voice carried through the howling wind, reaching Bu Mo’s ears.

“Just currently studying in the Eastern Continent because of a task from my sect, so I’m here.” Lolan Hill briefly explained.

“Ah, I see. But looking at your speech and manners, you don’t seem like a traveler from the west.” Bu Mo shook her head slightly. In Luo Capital, she had met many noble children from the Cangcui Empire, whose attire and accent were quite different from this young lady’s natural demeanor.

“Hehe, perhaps I was born on this land a long time ago, then went elsewhere.” A trace of nostalgia appeared in Lolan Hill’s pale blue pupils.

“That makes sense.”

Bu Mo still thought that such a beautiful and serene young lady should have originated from the House of Plantagenet. As a member of a noble family of the dynasty, she was naturally proud and patriotic.

Afterward, the two exchanged light conversations as their figures streaked like flowing light across the eastern lands.

Initially, Bu Mo worried that the young lady might need to rest halfway due to exhaustion or pause temporarily, but unexpectedly, from their departure until entering the heartland of Xiyu Province at dusk, the young lady showed no signs of fatigue, not even breaking a sweat, effortlessly carrying her across the long journey, arriving at the provincial capital of Xiyu Province.

The airflow swirled around them, then slowly dissipated, stirring up some fallen leaves and dust. The two gently descended near the city walls of the provincial capital of Xiyu Province.

“It’s my turn now, follow me.” Bu Mo didn’t want to be outdone by this seemingly younger young lady and led Lolan Hill toward the towering city.

“Please show your travel permit.” Upon reaching the city gate, a guard in dark yellow armor stopped them.

“Jin Zhan Xuan Hua, acting on behalf of the emperor.” Bu Mo pulled out a hidden token from her waist. Its edges were intricately carved with golden floral vines, and in the middle was a blooming lamp pillar, with faint bird silhouettes dancing in the flames.

Upon seeing the token imbued with special extraordinary energy, the guards were intimidated by her identity and stepped back.

“It was presumptuous of me.” He bent down with a bow, and the several other guards behind him opened the path, allowing the two to quickly enter the city. Moreover, two of the guards specially led the way, dispersing the crowded pedestrians on the street, heading toward the main mansion in the city.

The Jin Zhan Xuan Hua Mansion was the dynasty’s inspection agency, usually operating covertly. However, once the token was revealed, it definitely involved urgent matters, and these guards followed protocol to guide them, avoiding delays that could lead to serious problems.

Amidst the clamor of the busy road, the guards’ shouts dispersed the crowd, and soon people moved aside, allowing the rapid passage of these few individuals. They then curiously looked at the hurried backs, speculating on possible events.

“The people from the Xuan Hua Mansion have appeared. It seems our governor大人is in trouble this time.” On a teahouse by the street, two tea-drinking guests watched the scene below and smiled faintly.

“Tuhao Yang ah Tuhao Yang, since your sharp blade refuses to serve King Dai, there’s nothing left to do but destroy it, haha.” One of them chuckled softly, clearly pleased.

“Mr. You indeed have a brilliant plan, inviting the inspectors from the Xuan Hua Mansion. Thus, as long as Tuhao Yang reveals even the slightest flaw or handle, there will naturally be plenty of methods in the court to further demote him, step by step falling.” The other congratulated him. Though they held no official positions, they were retainers of the Royal Residence, doing work for the king and considering it an honor to relieve his worries.

“Don’t praise me too much, Brother Jing. Here, drink.” Despite his modesty, the satisfaction on his face was impossible to conceal.

In this vast world, there are countless talented and extraordinary individuals, but how many truly have the opportunity to fulfill their ambitions and change the course of history?

In times of peace, the consensus and desire of many is “to learn martial arts and sell them to the royal family.”

As for cultivating longevity and eternal life, though it sounds appealing, throughout history, how many have reached the ninth tier of the celestial ladder? The chances are even lower than becoming a prime minister, and many with mediocre talent give up hope early.

However, once in office and holding a high position, even with average talent, one can leverage the power of the dynasty to obtain numerous resources for extending life and enhancing strength. This is undoubtedly another shortcut, hence many strive tirelessly, going to great lengths to attach themselves to various factions.

——

Within the provincial office, the palace buildings were solemn and imposing. Various towers were lit with perpetual lamps, and armored soldiers patrolled diligently, their metallic clinks echoing, exuding authority and menace.

When Lolan Hill followed Bu Mo into the provincial office, she also sensed the strict and quiet atmosphere. She was slightly surprised; even in this era of peace, the provincial office was so heavily guarded, indicating that this governor was quite extraordinary.

“The inspector has arrived—” When Bu Mo stepped onto the steps of a grand hall, an official by the door loudly announced, relaying the message inside.

Soon afterward, a man dressed in a deep blue long robe slowly entered the hall, accompanied by someone resembling a strategist.

“I am the governor of Xiyou Province. May I inquire why the inspector has urgently arrived?” The man slightly bowed and then spoke. His features were upright, though dressed plainly as a scholar, he exuded an aura of authority simply by standing there.

Upon seeing the governor, Bu Mo’s rising emotions quickly cooled down.

“I am a messenger from the Jin Zhan Xuan Hua Mansion. During my inspection in this region, I discovered some unusual occurrences.” She calmly recounted her observations in the Ximu Mountains and the strength and numbers of the demons.

“I see. Inspector, you’ve worked hard.” The governor maintained a composed expression, seemingly unsurprised by what Bu Mo reported.

“Serve tea to the inspector.” He gave an order, and the strategist behind him slightly bowed before instructing the attendants to bring out fine tea.

The porcelain cup with a white base emitted a faint aroma as warm steam rose, gradually easing the tense atmosphere in the grand hall.

“What the inspector has stated, I will immediately report upwards for the court’s decision.” The governor picked up the tribute tea imbued with extraordinary power, took a gentle sip, and then placed it down.

Hearing this response, Bu Mo furrowed her brows. This seemingly correct reply implied that the governor would not send a single soldier into the Ximu Mountains until the court responded.

“But the Ximu Mountains are in grave danger. Once the demon forces grow and break out, it will cause massive casualties.”

“Inspector, your concerns are well-founded. I will announce to the border residents to migrate inland to avoid the calamity.” He replied calmly.

“But in that case, the Chi clan in the Ximu Mountains will likely be wiped out.” Bu Mo finally voiced her concerns.

“Inspector’s compassion moves me deeply, but my duty is to protect the civilians within the province. As for the Chi clan, they are not within my concern.” He shook his head slightly.

“So, you will not dispatch troops, right?” Bu Mo’s fingers tightened slightly, revealing her reluctance.

“Indeed.” Seeing the displeasure on the young inspector’s face, the governor had to offer a few explanations.

“Please forgive me, Inspector. In my view, the lives of the soldiers in this province are far more precious than those of the Chi clan. I must consider their families and children. Inspector wouldn’t want to see their families torn apart, homes destroyed, would you?” His words were logical, leaving Bu Mo momentarily speechless.

After a brief silence, Bu Mo spoke again.

“But with the ample military force in the provincial office, it won’t result in heavy casualties.” As an inspector from the Xuan Hua Mansion, Bu Mo was very familiar with the situation in Xiyou Province.

Being one of the specially circumstanced provincial offices, this governor had the authority to mobilize forty percent of the provincial military forces, offering considerable flexibility unlike the colonels who required imperial tokens to issue orders. The Xuanbao Cavalry under his command, filled with second and third-tier individuals, when equipped with elite gear and formations, could rival over a thousand fourth-tier extraordinary beings.

By combining this force with other elite border armies in the province, they could form a formidable army of three thousand fourth-tier extraordinary warriors. Clearing the scattered and uncoordinated demons in the mountains would be like sweeping away dry grass, effortless.

Despite Bu Mo’s reasoning, the governor remained firm in his refusal.

“Inspector’s proposal is understood, but I cannot comply.” As he finished speaking, the sound of the teacup lid landing on the cup rang out crisply.

The grand hall fell into an oppressive silence until, after a long while, a clear and gentle voice broke through it.

“May I ask, Governor, is there any hidden reason within the province? Perhaps we can share some of the burden, coordinate together, and find a win-win solution.”

At the sound of this voice, the stern governor finally shifted his gaze from beside Bu Mo to the source of the sound, where a tranquil and graceful young lady sat, her hair tips silver-white like the snow of the Tian Mountains, stunningly beautiful and captivating.

(End of Chapter)