“I apologize.”
On the competition stage, a student from the Xiwu Empire emerged from the vines, eyeing the prone Nangong Mian. “Your vines ensnared me, and I didn’t hear your surrender. That’s why I attacked again.”
“Couldn’t you hear?”
The supervising teacher’s expression darkened. “Are you deaf?”
Unperturbed by the teacher’s rebuke, the student retorted casually, “Well, can’t a warning suffice in this situation?”
“Teacher, I accept the warning, so there’s no need for further lectures,” the student added. “You have the time to address me; why not go help someone? You might still be able to save him.”
“You, consider this a warning,” the irate supervising teacher declared. Despite his anger, he knew that a second offense would result in a penalty and removal from the competition.
The Xiwu Empire student acted with this knowledge in mind.
“Fine.” The student, without sparing a glance at Nangong Mian on the ground, turned and flew off the competition stage, returning to his position.
The Xiwu Empire leader remained silent on the matter.
On the competition stage, another teacher assisted Nangong Mian in standing and escorted him off the platform.
Huang Quan, having just arrived beneath the competition stage, greeted Nangong Mian as the teacher guided him down.
In the spectator area, Nangong Feng, the head of the Nangong family, furrowed his brow upon seeing Huang Quan. His gaze shifted back to Nangong Mian’s face. The boy’s resemblance to his younger brother and the woman who looked similar to another woman troubled him. “Send someone to check on him,” Nangong Feng ordered, “Ensure that boy’s life is saved.”
“Understood.” Those nearby acknowledged the order, ready to depart for the task. However, the high priest of Tianqi, seated on the other side, stood up.
“Huang Quan, treat Nangong Mian’s injuries,” urged the high priest, attempting to utilize spiritual power for healing. However, Nangong Mian resisted, holding her hand tightly. Huang Quan, concerned, frowned and insisted, “Third brother, you’re seriously injured; we can’t afford any delays!”
“No, not here,” Nangong Mian insisted, looking at her steadfastly.
There are too many people here. If Quanquan heals him now, everyone will witness it.
Huang Quan’s eyes darkened upon hearing Nangong Mian’s concern. Despite Nangong Mian’s protests, she was prepared to use her abilities. Nangong Mian, understanding her intentions, tightened his grip on her hand.
Already injured, the increased pressure caused more blood to flow.
“Quanquan, be obedient,” Nangong Mian urged, his voice strained. “Otherwise, I’ll get angry.”
“Miss Nangong,” a cold yet melodious voice echoed around them. Huang Quan looked up to see the man standing nearby. The high priest acknowledged her presence and spoke warmly, “Miss Nangong, your brother is severely wounded and requires immediate attention. If you wish to continue competing, why not entrust your brother to me? I am a skilled alchemist and will do my utmost to heal him.”
While the offer might seem dubious coming from a stranger, Huang Quan glanced at Nangong Mian, who resisted any intervention, and then shifted her gaze toward the high priest. When their eyes met, she encountered a pair of profound eyes.
Those eyes belonged to none other than Di Qin.
The sudden appearance of the high priest indicated the source of the order.
“Alright.”
Huang Quan addressed the high priest, “I will entrust my third brother to you. Thank you for your kindness. Please ensure the safety of my third brother’s life. I will express my gratitude later.”
