Chapter 386 - The Jade Heart Pendant

In a reception room halfway up the mountain.

Gongyi Tianheng was seated at the head of the table with Gu Zuo by his side.

Both of them were looking at the slender teenager who stood respectfully at the bottom of the flight of stairs with a back as straight as a javelin. There was a trace of surprise etched in their expressions.

The slender teenager wasnt unfamiliar to them. When they had gone on a date one year ago, they had helped the abandoned son of the Yu Family at the Sect Offering Academy. It was the unyielding and courageous Yu Cheng.

Ever since this child was aided by them last time, Teacher Han became aware of his name. Thus, although his stepbrother Yu Ze, who similarly entered the academy, continued thinking of ways to fault and quarrel with him, Yu Cheng was still able to tactfully avoid any pitfalls.

With his many experiences, his strength increased repeatedly, and his insight grew prudent and cautious. In this short year, his realm had already advanced to Xiantian stage six. One could say that it was incredibly fast. However, what was even more astonis.h.i.+ng was that, no matter how quickly his realm improved, there were never any indications of unstable or hollow foundations. This was enough to prove that he had a stroke of luck, and that he was extremely hardworking.

For this kind of good seedling, Tianheng had arranged someone to observe him two months ago. Over time, this observer gradually made contact with Yu Cheng. Naturally, Pang Wei, whom they regarded with good prospects, was likewise contacted. That fellows progress was no slower than that of Yu Cheng. Moreover, his heaven-sent strength had become even more outrageous under the academys Houtian nurturing!

It was just that there were some differences between Pang Wei and Yu Cheng. Pang Wei was slow on the uptake, and his temperament was honest and straightforward. After he was approached by another observer, he didnt notice any of the probing hints within the conversation. Instead, he only considered the contact as a new friend. In order to avoid upsetting Pang Wei, the contact developed their connection slowly, and un.o.btrusively mentioned some matters.

But it seemed that Yu Cheng had quickly discovered the contacts ident.i.ty.

He didnt reject the contact because of this. Rather, he practiced martial arts as usual during this period of time. However, he seemed to have listened to some of the words the contact suggested to him. It looked likehe didnt refuse.

Yet, based on Tianhengs way of thinking, both Yu Cheng and Pang Wei needed to develop a connection with their contacts for a long time before they would react. Unexpectedly, this Yu Cheng somehow figured out his ident.i.ty and came directly to their doors?

This piqued a bit of Tianhengs interest.

Gu Zuo was also deep in thought: This Yu Cheng came looking for us. He sure has a lot of guts But, why?

Under Tianheng and Gu Zuos measuring gazes, it was only natural for Yu Cheng to be a little nervous.

After all, he was an abandoned son. Although his improvements in the academy were fast, it hadnt reached the point where he could

see all the smaller mountains down below with a single look

, and simply rush over. While he had made some preparations, he didnt know if this would be considered offensive by this legendary prodigy

Tianheng took measure of him for a moment. When Yu Cheng almost couldnt bear it any longer, Tianheng gave a faint smile and opened his mouth: Yu Cheng? I remember meeting you once.

Yu Cheng noticed that the atmosphere that froze the entire hall had been broken. He let out a light sigh of relief, and solemnly said: Yes. Many thanks to Prodigy Gongyi and Pharmacist Gu for thy help last year. This Yu Cheng cant thank thee enough.

Tianheng waved his hand: Theres no need to talk more about what has long pa.s.sed. You expressed your grat.i.tude on that day, and its not necessary to give more thanks today. His gaze swept over Yu Cheng, You shouldnt have come looking for me just for this?

Yu Chengs body stiffened. He lowered his head: Prodigy Gongyi, please forgive this ones impertinence.

After that, he slowly pulled out a lovely jade pendant of a gem-like green color. He held it up with both hands: This Yu Chengs visit is related to the Jade Heart Pendant.

Tianheng naturally knew about the Jade Heart Pendant. He also knew that this was an object that the Yu Family sought to plunder. Seeing Yu Chengs action at this moment, Tianheng had two guesses about what he would say next.

Tianheng smiled: In one year, the Yu Family has been making all kinds of threats against you, but you have yet to hand this thing over to them. Now that you stand before me, are you not afraid that I will seek to steal it?

Upon hearing this, Yu Cheng also didnt know what he was feeling in his heart.

Back when he was rescued, he originally didnt think much of it. But after the matter pa.s.sed, he guessed that the couple of people who saved him certainly didnt do so abruptly. They shouldve heard his and the henchmens words. Otherwise, that teacher wouldnt have immediately stood on his side. However, conjecture was just conjecture. Now that Tianheng said this, it was all but confirmed, which complicated his frame of mind.

Though, it was precisely due to this that he summoned his courage and came over.

Soon after, Yu Chengs tone became reverent: If Prodigy Gongyi intended to take this object away, he wouldve taken it on that day. This Yu Cheng isnt talented, but has received care and attention on many occasions. Naturally, this one firmly believes that Prodigy Gongyi is straightforward and upright.

This meaning held a little bit of praise, but these words werent necessarily empty flattery.

The edge of Tianhengs mouth pulled up into a grin. His opinion of Yu Cheng increased by ten percent.

Although this person had been honed and sharpened many times, he wasnt someone with only integrity and no sense of propriety. Moreover, his mind was clear-headed and fully cognizant of the consequences. Sufficient courage was admirable.

Indeed. He didnt care about this Jade Heart Pendant. According to his thought process, this object was either a key or some other opening device for resources or fortuitous encounters that Yu Chengs mother left behind for her son. In this world, how numerous were the fortuitous encounters and how abundant were the resources? Tianheng was backed by Ten Ultimates Sect, and many resources were readily available. Furthermore, if Yu Cheng didnt have this trinket, perhaps it would be extremely difficult for him to rush up in the future. Why should Tianheng cut off Yu Chengs path of survival, and make himself appear petty and small-minded?

Hence, Tianheng plainly said: You will clearly explain your purpose in coming.

Gu Zuo also curiosity looked over.

With Yu Chengs temperament, it wouldnt have been just for the sake of offering the Jade Heart Pendant to his big brother, right? Then, why did he take it out for? Could it be that

Yu Cheng composed himself, and declared his own intentions: This one wont hide it from Prodigy Gongyi. This Jade Heart Pendant was left behind by my mother. When she was on her deathbed, she stated clearly that this Yu Cheng didnt have to believe in the Yu Family. After growing up, I could take this thing to a historical ruin, and search for treasures He hesitated slightly, but still spoke honestly, and the Xiao Clans inheritance.

Tianheng raised an eyebrow: Oh?

Actually, he didnt expect that there would be an inheritance inside, too.

However, he didnt need an inheritance either. It was only because he was currently learning a supreme piece of ultimate knowledge. It was also because the Tiandu Bodys qi oceans were all different. He needed to create his own martial discipline. As for other martial skills and so on, he could memorize them at a glance. No matter how incredible, there wasnt any need to steal it.

Yu Cheng saw that Tianheng didnt care, and there were two certainties in his heart: Some time ago, this Yu I held onto this thing, ventured to the location of those ruins, and smoothly entered. Unfortunately, while this Jade Heart Pendant is a good thing, my strength wasnt enough. I could only search around the outer circle. Although I did obtain some benefits, they arent worth mentioning when compared to the inheritance.

Though the martial disciplines in the Sect Offering Academy were great, most of them were for building ones foundations. There were also some complete inheritances available, but most of those required one to successfully enter Ten Ultimates Sect first, and then make many contributions to be exchanged Unless he was lucky enough to directly apprentice himself to an excellent and venerable teacher. However, that type of possibility wasnt high. His innate talent wasnt formidable enough to catch a powerhouses attention.

As a result, for the sake of future growth and development, Yu Cheng needed to obtain the inheritance as soon as possible. After cultivating it at the earliest time, it would be possible to pull ahead of the others, and he wouldnt have to be anxious later on.

It was only a pity that he couldnt charge into the core region at all. How was he going to claim the inheritance, then?

Yu Chengs voice was dim: That historical ruin was left behind by the Xiao Clan, and I am also considered a descendant of the Xiao Clan. But when all is said and done, my bloodline isnt pure. Therefore, the tests were rather numerous. If I challenge them slowly, it would take a very long time. While I could gradually finish them, Im only worried that Ill die before I can see it through

Due to the Sect Offering Academys protection, Yu Cheng was able to deal with the Yu Family. However, every time he went out adventuring, he would be stared at by the Yu Family. He experienced many moments of life and death before safely returning. He was able to survive without a hitch once or twice, but in the end, he was just one person. Who knew when his luck would eventually run out? Yu Cheng was aware that he needed to plan for a rainy day before going out.

It was also during this time that Yu Cheng discovered those contacts, and he gradually realized that Tianheng was keeping an eye on him. After confirming that Tianheng was one of the people who saved him back then, he thought it over many times. Finally, he came to a decision.

Once Yu Cheng finished speaking, he saluted deferentially: If this Yu Cheng may be so bold as to ask this prodigy to take action and explore the historical ruin together, apart from the inheritance, everything that this prodigy fancies will belong to him. And although its to accept the Xiao Clans inheritance, after receiving it, I would like to inform this prodigy in full Please have mercy and allow this ones request, Prodigy Gongyi.

This was considered exceedingly sincere. He was laying out everything he had on a silver platter.

This was taking an enormous risk, but for the sake of being able to practice even better martial disciplines and obtaining the most optimal inheritance for himself, he could only take this risk and entrust his life to the best choice capable of making this happen.

After Tianheng finished listening, he silently pondered.

His fingers lightly drummed against the armrest. The sound wasnt loud, but it tugged at ones soul.

All of a sudden, Yu Cheng feel keenly nervous.

His forehead was damp with sweat. At this moment, he only felt lingering fears and apprehension about Tianhengs possible decision.

But, Yu Cheng didnt regret it either.

He would succeed or die trying. If he didnt even dare to brave this bit of danger and cultivated at a smooth and steady pace, how long would it take for him to break free from the Yu Familys entanglement?

He took a deep breath. If he incorrectly recognized a persons character, he could only blame his own poor eyesight!

Gu Zuo felt exasperated as he watched Yu Cheng, who looked as if he was about to face the gallows.

This matter wasnt a big deal. His big brother would definitely agree. Right now, these actions were just to frighten and intimidate people. Otherwise, it would seem like they were speaking on excessively good terms. That would be rather undignified.

The facts were just as Gu Zuo thought.

After this short period of pondering, Tianheng faintly nodded his head: Very well. Since Im optimistic about you, I agree to your terms. Today, you will go back to rest and make preparations. Two days from now, bring the Jade Heart Pendant. I will take along a few people, and youll journey with us.

Yu Cheng was overjoyed. Regardless of how calm or steady he tried to be, he couldnt control his voice from trembling slightly: Many thanks, Prodigy Gongyi! This Yu Cheng cant thank thee enough!

Tianheng smiled and said: You may go. If theres anything you need, inform your contact.

Yu Chengs cheeks reddened. After paying his respects once more, he departed with a spring in his step.

The outcome of this times visit was far better than what he imagined. He witnessed the magnanimity of this prodigy, and it made him feelgrat.i.tude from the bottom of his heart.

Once Yu Cheng left, Gu Zuo turned his head to look at Tianheng: Big brother, I think that this Yu Cheng is a little foolish.

Tianheng chuckled and said: Why is that?

Gu Zuo thought about it, and murmured: Hes so happy now that big brother agreed, but he hasnt considered what he would do if we wanted to take his small life inside the ruins and rob him of everything.

Tianheng placed a hand against his forehead: How could this elder brother do something so meaningless? But he was also gratified, However, its great that Ah Zuo knows to guard against others now. In the future, you need to bear in mind that peoples thoughts are diverse and multifaceted. Dont trust others easily.

Then, he said: Yu Cheng is young. Although hes cautious, there are still places he has overlooked. But in the end, he had once been saved by us. Compared to other people, he will naturally trust me a bit more. With his current position, the best he can pick is only me.

Gu Zuo nodded his head: Actually, I was just about to say this, too. But big brother, are you really interested in that historical ruin?

Tianheng smiled and said: Although this elder brother has no intention of stealing Yu Chengs things, theres no harm in going ahead to explore it if he took the initiative to come to our doors. Whats more, Im also somewhat interested in that Xiao Clan. Who knows what method that clan used to preserve their inheritance? If this method is useful, it can be replicated in the future

Gu Zuo silently listened.

Hearing his big brother animatedly talking in this way made him very happy.

In the blink of an eye, two days pa.s.sed.

The location that Yu Cheng agreed to meet at was a rather famous restaurant outside the Sect Offering Academy. Because he had been waiting for Gongyi Tianheng and the others to arrive, he already drank several cups of tea. He was somewhat restless whether sitting or standing.

Not much later, the door opened wide.

Tianheng, Gu Zuo, and a few others walked inside.

T/N: Just a heads up. After this, there are five more chapters for this volume: One triple-length and four double-length chapters. So, you guys can imagine what the upload schedule will be like.

Thanks for the corrections, Charysa.

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