Fateful Encounter with the Spirit Beast - Chapter 72 - The Agreement at the Duke's Mansion 2

ldn’t help but let out a soft exclamation upon hearing the name of the dwarf race’s Master Rick.

Sheng Dike glanced at Youni in confusion and asked, “Have you met Rick before?”

Tianxiang immediately chimed in, “Let me introduce ourselves first. I’m Tianxiang, and this is Youni. We are both friends of Xiao Xue. She might just be too excited, which is why she’s acting this way.”

While Tianxiang was explaining, Youni continued to gaze at Rick with an unusual look. To Sheng Dike and the others, it seemed like she admired Rick too much, but only Youni understood the true meaning behind her expression.

Though Feng Xuewu felt it was strange, she smoothly shifted the topic, saying, “These are Liu Feng and Atta; they are my bodyguards and also students at the Academy. And these two are Yue Lianxuan and Yingdie, students from the priest class along with her bodyguard.”

Sheng Yatian exclaimed in surprise, “I can’t believe Yue Lianxuan is here too!” After a moment, he puffed up proudly like a strutting rooster and declared, “I am Sheng Yatian, the Seventh Prince of the Kingdom of Saint Kai!”

Feng Xuewu ignored him and continued, “Where did you find Rick?”

Yiye replied, “We found him in Rick’s hometown and invited him back to the Kingdom of Saint Kai. We were just about to report to the King when we ran into the Sixth Prince and decided to come to Xuehong Lou for a bite to eat.”

Sheng Dike commented, “This is simply a warm welcome for Master Rick.” He then changed the topic and asked, “Youni, have you made a contract with Tianxiang yet?” Hearing this, Sheng Yatian’s eyes suddenly lit up, staring intently at Youni.

Youni replied, “I have already made a Heart Imprint Contract with him.”

Sheng Yatian mumbled, “What a pity.” Then he asked, “Is it possible to dissolve that contract? Hey, Tianxiang, name your price; let me have Youni.”

Sheng Dike immediately called out sternly, “Sheng Yatian!”

Sheng Yatian raised his hands in surrender and hurriedly said, “Okay! Okay! Let’s pretend I never said anything.”

Sheng Dike watched as Tianxiang ignored Sheng Yatian’s nonsense, maintaining the same calm demeanor he always had. With Youni, who was now close to being an Elf Emissary, and the events that had transpired before, curiosity began to stir within him about everything related to Tianxiang, to the point that he had a feeling, difficult to articulate, that Tianxiang’s relationship with Feng Xuewu was anything but ordinary. He then said, “Tianxiang, I would like to be friends with you. Could you share a bit more about yourself?”

Tianxiang replied, “I’m flattered, but honestly, there isn’t much to say. Besides, we’re already friends, aren’t we? If you need to know everything about me before deciding to be friends, that would be rather mundane.”

Sheng Dike chuckled and said, “You’re right. True friendship lies in understanding each other-I wouldn’t judge it by common, worldly standards! My bad!” Tianxiang smiled back lightly, which made the atmosphere warm and friendly.

To the others, Sheng Dike and Tianxiang had distinctly different yet equally appealing qualities. If Sheng Dike was gentle and watery, making his carefulness and thoughtfulness palpable, then Tianxiang was as ethereal as the wind, invoking a refreshing feeling that made others feel at ease and unrestrained.

During their first meeting, both left a deep impression on each other. However, fate had its own plans. Little did they know, these two who seemed like rivals and allies would face their destinies in an era of chaos, where many would rise. Each would carve out their own piece of the Continent, achieving remarkable feats, yet they could not escape their fateful confrontation.

With Tianxiang and Sheng Dike as the focus of conversation, everyone joined in the casual chatter. Feng Xuewu engaged in conversation with Ziqin and Shasha Jia about what had happened while they had been apart. Ziqin responded intermittently, but her gaze often lingered on Tianxiang’s face, reflecting a mix of affection, resentment, and disappointment. Feng Xuewu, being perceptive, noticed this mixed emotion in Ziqin and decided she would dig deeper into the matter when she had a chance.

Meanwhile, Rick, who had been sipping tea, suddenly said, “Sixth Prince, now that I’m back in the palace, I’m looking for an assistant to help me organize some information and handle a few miscellaneous tasks.”

Sheng Dike replied, “I believe my father will agree to that. The only question is, who are you looking for?”

Noticing Master Rick gently set his tea cup down on the table, his slightly trembling wrist caught Tianxiang’s attention. He suddenly said, “Master Rick, I have some knowledge of medical skills; please allow me to take your pulse.” Rick met Tianxiang’s earnest and confident gaze and nodded in tacit agreement.

Sheng Dike spoke nervously, “Master Rick’s health has been a great concern for my father and Dean Tukmor. If you truly understand medical skills, that would be wonderful.”

Sheng Dike’s genuine trust in Tianxiang, despite Tianxiang’s humble background and uncertain origins, showed no signs of doubt or reservation. He unconditionally believed in and supported Tianxiang, which touched Tianxiang deeply and revealed Sheng Dike’s broad-mindedness and philosophy regarding people.

With a solemn expression, Tianxiang began to take Rick’s pulse. Silence enveloped the room as everyone focused closely on Tianxiang diagnosing Master Rick. He gently raised three fingers and, with both certainty and sorrow, said, “Master Rick, you have less than three years to live.”

The room erupted with gasps of disbelief, and Sheng Dike asked sorrowfully, “Are you serious?” Tianxiang nodded in silence, and the atmosphere suddenly turned somber, with everyone gazing at Rick with reluctance.

Rick seemed unfazed and responded flatly, “Your diagnosis is quite accurate.” He then murmured, “Three years! Not too long, yet not too short. Let me use these three years to fulfill my final wish.”

Tianxiang picked up on the underlying meaning and turned to Sheng Dike, saying, “I have a personal request. I hope to take over Master Rick’s medical care for these last three years.”

Seeing Tianxiang’s extraordinary diagnosis and recognizing that Rick needed an assistant, Sheng Dike considered how to combine both matters. He said, “Then I will advise my father that you are Master Rick’s assistant to facilitate your care for him.”

Rick had no objections, simply nodding in agreement. Meanwhile, Sheng Yatian, who was eager to gain some advantage from the situation, exclaimed, “How can this be? He’s just an ordinary citizen; how could he provide medical care for Master Rick? Besides, there are imperial physicians in the palace! Why should it be him? If something were to go wrong with Master Rick’s health, could he take responsibility?”

Despite everyone’s confusion about Tianxiang’s sudden change of heart in deciding to stay, they felt genuinely pleased. However, upon hearing Sheng Yatian’s dismissive remarks, they couldn’t help but feel indignant. Suddenly, Feng Xuewu stated firmly, “I will guarantee with my life that there will be absolutely no issues.”

Sheng Dike added, “Let’s not discuss this any further. I trust Tianxiang. Once we return to the palace, I will inform my father.”

Seeing that even Feng Xuewu supported Tianxiang, Sheng Yatian quickly shifted his tone, saying, “I meant to say that if an imperial physician were involved, the quality of Master Rick’s medical care should be even better!”

Noticing that everyone seemed unwilling to engage with him, Sheng Yatian fell silent, but his resentment towards Sheng Dike deepened.

Sheng Dike then asked, “Tianxiang, where are you currently staying?”

Feng Xuewu replied, “They came at my invitation to stay at the Duke’s Mansion for a few days.”

Sheng Dike said, “Then I will return and consult with my father. Once I have an answer, I’ll be in touch with you at the Duke’s Mansion.”

Tianxiang responded, “Thank you!”

Just as everyone was about to leave and go their separate ways, Feng Xuewu leaned in close to Ziqin and whispered, “You seem troubled! Your gaze keeps wandering, as if it’s always fixated on someone. When you get a chance, make sure to clarify everything. My dear sister!”

Ziqin’s cheeks suddenly flushed with a rosy hue, appearing and disappearing quickly. She softly uttered an “mm” before hastily following Yiye toward the palace.

On the way back to the Duke’s Mansion, Tianxiang brought up the topic himself, saying, “You might find it strange that I said I had an agreement with a dwarf, yet I am staying to care for Master Rick.”

Curiosity and confusion filled the faces of the group as they looked at Tianxiang. Suddenly, Yue Lianxuan exclaimed with excitement, “Could it be that the dwarf you mentioned is Master Rick?”

Youni praised, “Xuan’er, you’re absolutely right! It’s Old Rick.”

Seeing the puzzled expressions on everyone’s faces, Youni added, “Old Rick is Master Rick. Tianxiang and I call him Old Rick, and Xiaojin and Dixiang know him too!” She turned to Tianxiang and said, “Should we bring those little ones along? Old Rick must be missing them!”

Tianxiang replied, “That’s not a problem. I’d like Old Rick to leave this world without regrets in these final three years.”

Unable to resist the requests of Feng Xuewu and the others, Tianxiang recounted in detail his experiences with Old Rick, starting from when Master Rick, under the alias Old Heaton, met him at the Snow Essence Bar. He shared how, to resolve his personal turmoil, they had made a five-year pact. They spent more than a year together at the eternal resting place that Old Rick had prepared long in advance. Just when he was about to reunite with Xiao Xue and the others, a series of events unfolded, and after numerous twists and turns, he finally returned to the Kingdom of Saint Kai.

After summarizing his story, Tianxiang added, “In fact, that place is a paradise, free from the disturbances of the world, filled only with tranquility and peace. It’s truly a place that one longs for.”

Seeing that everyone was captivated by his words and the imagery he painted, Tianxiang continued, “Old Rick, Dean Tukmor of Saint Kai Academy, space artist Yi Danyu, and light element Elf emissary Yelena were once close companions who faced adventures and challenges together, sharing life and death. Among them, Old Rick and the others were deeply in love with Yelena. Even after her passing, they collectively built an idyllic paradise that everyone dreams of, guarding its beauty while vowing never to seek new romantic connections. They planned to remain in the ground together with Yelena after their deaths, enduring into eternity.”

These four renowned figures, famous throughout the continent, had a touching story filled with friendship and love intertwined in complex ways. The depth of their devotion and true affection left Feng Xuewu and the others profoundly shaken. In comparison to the fleeting romances and empty oaths often found in the world, their unwavering loyalty and heartfelt love were even more enchanting and irresistible.

A sweet sorrow lingered in the hearts of Tianxiang and the others, following them unknowingly to the garden where they had their evening conversation the night before.

Liu Feng was the first to break the silence, asking, “Boss, I find it strange. Since you know Master Rick, why did you have to go around in circles at Xuehong Lou just now, even having the Sixth Prince vouch for you?”

Tianxiang replied, “Actually, Old Rick wanted to pass on his forging inspection techniques to me, but at that moment, he was simply inspired and looking for an heir! However, he didn’t want me to follow in his footsteps and become bound by the palace and its officials, which is why we performed that little act just now.”

Youni chimed in, “It’s not just Old Rick’s forging inspection techniques; Yelena’s medical skills and cooking, Tukmor’s magic, and Yi Danyu’s space artistry and cleverness are all priceless treasures. Old Rick has repeatedly told us that if you want to live a freer life and are not after fame and fortune, you should hide your abilities to avoid jealousy and the ensuing gossip.”

Feng Xuewu turned to Tianxiang, saying, “But if you go to the palace to care for Master Rick and he passes away in three years, you will still be suspected by those with ulterior motives!”

Tianxiang responded, “I believe Old Rick will have a proper arrangement in place! After all, experience counts!”

Suddenly, Atta said, “Boss, I have a favor to ask you.”

“Eh!” Tianxiang exclaimed in surprise, “What is it?”

Atta shyly said, “I would like to reserve some weapons and armor that you craft personally. After all, as Master Rick’s heir, your creations should be extraordinary.”

Upon hearing this, everyone exclaimed in unison, “Atta, you can’t run away with that!” Then, voices erupted as they eagerly began to request various weapons and armor from Tianxiang, their youthful enthusiasm shining through, leaving him both amused and exasperated.

Liu Feng, feeling it was unfair, remarked, “Xiao Xue! You all already have the life-giving Goddess Xina’s necklace, which is a spiritual weapon and armor! Stop competing with us over this!”

Feng Xuewu shot back, “Stinky Liu Feng, haven’t you heard of ‘ladies first’? Where’s your chivalry?”

With her innate business acumen, Yue Lianxuan added, “Exactly! Besides, Yingdie should go first! I believe in Brother Xiang’s ability to craft high-quality weapons-the rarer, the more valuable it is! If you could sell them at auction, who knows how much they could go for? Then not only you, but even Atta’s equipment expenses would be covered.”

In the end, with Tianxiang mediating and presenting the greater good, it was decided that each person could choose one weapon, with the prerequisite being that they must show skill in their training.

Yingdie, who had been silent until now, found it amusing to watch everyone argue with flushed faces, but she noticed that the more they bickered, the closer their emotions seemed to bond. Most importantly, no matter the disagreement, the discussions almost always revolved around Tianxiang.

The once cold Tianxiang now emanated a sense of unexplainable calm, and it seemed he possessed an innate leadership quality. He listened patiently to everyone’s opinions and was able to make decisions without bias. Yingdie couldn’t help but reflect on how she often fell short in this regard, and she wondered how many people could genuinely achieve it. Suddenly, a bizarre and bold thought crossed her mind.

As the discussion about weapons came to a close, Yingdie asked, “What does everyone plan to do in the future? Tianxiang, you’re training with Master Rick for three years. Xiao Xue, even though you have a few years until graduation, what comes after that?”

Yingdie’s question plunged everyone into contemplation. It wasn’t that they didn’t know; rather, they all felt that they were still quite young. Although they had faced life-and-death battles, the joy of reuniting with Tianxiang had clouded their minds, almost transporting them back to carefree childhood days spent exploring the mountains, picking fruits, and savoring the delightful moments of an untroubled youth.

However, Yingdie’s words made them realize they had grown up. There were many things in the future that they needed to take responsibility for. In this chaotic world where power reigns supreme, strength represents everything. How much strength could they possess, and what could they accomplish? Although they were unsure about their futures, they knew they had to improve themselves, especially in light of the continuous schemes and ambushes from the Flower Moon Alliance. If it hadn’t been for Xiao Xue’s divine artifact and Tianxiang’s timely arrival, who knows how that situation would have escalated?

The collective silence among them created a heavy atmosphere. Yet, Yingdie felt quite pleased; it meant everyone was genuinely contemplating their future, unlike some so-called young experts in their clan, who endlessly proclaimed their desires to become powerful, take on the role of clan leader, and save the Dark Clan with empty rhetoric.

Suddenly, everyone seemed to come to a mutual decision and, in unison, turned to look at Tianxiang. His gaze was like the sky he longed for-vast, clear, and boundless blue. Though clouds occasionally drifted by, they did not diminish the purity and generosity of that blue expanse.

Seeing everyone looking at him, Tianxiang first offered a warm smile and said, “Honestly, I haven’t thought much about what I want to do in the future. Right now, I just want to enhance my abilities-martial arts, magic, medicine, and even Old Rick’s forging inspection techniques. I want to learn all of it fully, without any regrets. In the future, I envision us traveling together, exploring different places, experiencing local customs, and enjoying the beauty of nature. No matter what happens, we’ll face challenges together and celebrate happiness side by side, because you are all my good friends, even like family, and I can never cut you out of my life.”

Deeply moved, Feng Xuewu responded, “I feel the same way. My future is simple: I want to strive alongside all of you, no matter where we go, never leaving each other behind.”

Yue Lianxuan’s eyes were slightly red, and with a choked voice, she said, “I don’t know who I was before, but now I realize one thing-I can’t live without all of you. My future will be just like this.”

Liu Feng and Atta looked at Tianxiang earnestly and said in unison, “Boss, one thing is for sure-I’m with you all the way.”

Feeling a sincere bond stirring deep inside her, Youni said, “The person I was before is long gone. The current me, because of our friendship, has more courage to stand strong in this world. I truly believe that we will shine brightly in the future, because our unwavering friendship is our indomitable strength.”

An indescribable warmth filled Yingdie’s heart as she spoke, “I’m really glad that we all share the same aspirations. No matter what your future holds, I will be part of it. I have a suggestion: why don’t we form a mercenary group? We could take on missions. Although we might encounter unknown dangers and thrilling situations, it will make our future even more exciting, and our hearts will become even more closely bonded. Especially the sense of achievement and fulfillment from completing tasks together-that sweet feeling can’t be matched by doing it alone.”

The idea of forming a group that could turn everyone’s dreams and desires into reality was met with unanimous approval. Naturally, Tianxiang became the leader, and everyone’s positions were quickly determined: Feng Xuewu was named Vice Captain alongside Liu Feng; Atta was appointed as the head of the combat group; Dixiang and Ye Tong were selected as the two minor soldiers; Yue Lianxuan took on the role of the medical and finance group leader; Yingdie became the head of the intelligence group, with Xiaojin as her minor soldier; and Youni was appointed as the leader’s secretary.

As for the group’s mascot, Xiao Ya, since he was still underage, it was deemed inappropriate to overwork him as child labor. However, everyone agreed that occasionally he could help out-surely, that wouldn’t be so bad! This decision had come after much discussion among the group, with Xiao Ya blissfully asleep and unable to protest his assignment.

With their roles confirmed, the next step was to decide on the group’s name. Liu Feng suggested, “The name should evoke courage and strength. How about ‘Flying Dragon’? It has the leader’s name in it and signifies the mighty dragon.”

Feng Xuewu immediately countered, “Let’s not name the group after dragons or phoenixes! Those names are so common on the Xuanwu Continent that they lose their originality.”

Yue Lianxuan chimed in, “What about ‘Yingyue’?”

Yingdie quickly raised a concern, “Could that potentially infringe on copyright? What about ‘Night Star’? The brilliant stars at night guide lost souls.”

Atta offered, “But ‘Ye Xing’ sounds too wild when you say it quickly, which isn’t good! I think ‘War Eagle’ would be nice!”

Yingdie promptly shot back, “No, that’s not good!”

As everyone exchanged their thoughts, Tianxiang just smiled. Suddenly, Feng Xuewu caught his smile and curiously asked, “Brother Xiang, what are you smiling about?”

Yue Lianxuan added, “Did you come up with a group name?”

After pondering for a moment, Tianxiang said, “How about ‘Tian Ce Mercenary Group’? It suggests that our mercenary group will travel far and wide, with no task left unfinished and always achieving success. Most importantly, I want to honor my father, Tianyu Ce.”

Everyone murmured, “Tian Ce! Tian Ce!” as they found the name pleasant to say. Feng Xuewu suddenly exclaimed, “Great! I like it. Tian Ce it is!”

So, the group formed a circle, each member extending their right hand and placing it in the center. One by one, they placed their hands on top of each other until Tianxiang shouted, “Tian Ce Mercenary Group!”

The others followed with enthusiasm, shouting, “Traveling the world, leaving no task unfulfilled!”

Thus began a new chapter for the Xuanwu Continent, marked by the establishment of the Tian Ce Mercenary Group. This group would become a legendary force, leaving behind countless tales of valor, and serve as the backbone of the future Tianyu Empire’s Tian Ce Army.

Shortly thereafter, Yiye and his companions returned from the palace with a decree from the current King, Saint Kai the Fourteenth. The king summoned Tianxiang to the palace the next morning to assist Master Rick in his daily life. Additionally, the king shared another piece of news: Master Rick, who had never taken on apprentices before, would exceptionally accept three students. These apprentices could be of any race, but they must possess a basic understanding of forging to facilitate the transmission of his lifelong knowledge.

After consulting various parties, the candidates were decided: the First Prince nominated Xiu Yatu, a human; the Sixth Prince secured a spot for his dwarf friend, Mikeluo; the final selection was the lion orc, Suoluo, who was affiliated with the Seventh Prince and the Queen.

Some politically astute officials began to sense an unusual political atmosphere stemming from the names on this list. Beneath the seemingly harmonious royal family, the waning of Saint Kai the Fourteenth’s reign subtly stirred the waters, hinting at a brewing political storm, rife with power struggles.

That night, everyone busied themselves with separate tasks: Tianxiang and Youni were occupied with preparations for their palace visit; Liu Feng and Atta had already left the Duke’s Mansion to register at the mercenary guild; Yingdie and Yue Lianxuan went to the Yingyue Business House to update Yue Yuanyan on their recent activities and their connection with Tianxiang.

In the courtyard, two graceful figures appeared, exuding a youthful vigor that brought a magical charm to the space. The air was filled with the essence of youth, transforming the courtyard into a scene reminiscent of a gentle spring breeze and a light spring rain, enveloping it in a warm, invigorating atmosphere that was utterly enchanting.

Yet, the expressions of the two young ladies were distinctly different.

Feng Xuewu’s lips curled into a teasing smile as she closely watched Ziqin, her gaze almost piercing through to her inner thoughts.

Ziqin resembled a shy flower on the verge of blooming, hesitantly pacing back and forth. Although the night air was slightly cool, under Feng Xuewu’s relentless stare, her heart inexplicably raced, and the heat on her cheeks made her feel as if the scorching summer sun was about to melt her away. Even facing an opponent didn’t invoke such a level of nervousness. For Ziqin, this felt like a young maiden’s first venture into a bridal carriage!

Ziqin was the first to shyly ask, “What are you looking at? There’s nothing on my face, is there?”

Feng Xuewu replied mischievously, “Oh, there’s nothing on your face. But in your heart, that’s a different story! Come on, spill the beans.”

Ziqin fidgeted, “Spill what?”

Feng Xuewu exclaimed, “Quit pretending! My dear sister, your expression has already given you away. Is it about Tianxiang?”

Ziqin gasped in surprise, “How did you know?”

Feng Xuewu nearly collapsed from shock and exclaimed, “Please! This afternoon, the way you were gazing off into space-anyone with eyes and a brain could see it!”

Ziqin responded, “Was it that obvious?”

Feng Xuewu sighed, “You! Aside from your dedication to Martial Arts and your unwavering sense of justice, which I deeply admire, I always feel like you’re missing a screw when it comes to everything else. No wonder you keep up this cold facade.”

Ziqin protested, “How can you say that?” After a pause, she added, “Was it really that serious?”

Feng Xuewu nodded, speechless. However, her curiosity about gossip got the better of her, and she asked, “I remember my Eldest Brother saying that you lost to Tianxiang at the Snow Essence Bar, and then you went into seclusion to practice once you returned! So, what exactly happened?”

It was as if old memories were stirred, and Ziqin felt an urge to finally express the feelings she’d buried for so long.

Ziqin gazed off into the distance, her eyes dreamy as she murmured, “The Snow Essence Bar-that was where Tianxiang and I first met, and it was my first defeat. That slap ignited my competitive spirit and left an indelible mark of Tianxiang in my heart. During the year I spent in seclusion, aside from continually focusing on my cultivation, my thoughts were consumed by his proud demeanor and cold gaze, making it impossible for me to forget him.

Our second meeting was at the Pegasus Ranch, where he unraveled an unexpected mystery, disregarding the mundane opinions of the world around him. He did everything he could to protect his dark element Elf, Youni, as well as the two unknown phantom beasts. In the invisible competition in Yan Hua Garden, I lost both my heart and my pride, falling to his fearless spirit and unwavering determination, realizing that he had already left his shadow in my heart.

This unexpected encounter stirred feelings within me that I could no longer suppress. I’ve come to understand that I truly love him. Even though he doesn’t acknowledge my existence and still harbors resentment for my past actions, I can’t help but lose control. Even if it means standing at a distance and stealing a glance at him, I find myself completely content in that moment.”

The hazy night, paired with her misty eyes and murmured confessions, cast a layer of nostalgia over the courtyard, wrapping it in an atmosphere that drew one in deeper, making it hard to escape.

The silence between them left even a wise person like Feng Xuewu at a loss for how to proceed. On one hand, there was her beloved; on the other, her dear sister in arms sharing her heart. If she asked Tianxiang directly, she feared it might hurt Ziqin’s feelings. But if she didn’t ask, she couldn’t bear to see her friend tormented by love. It was truly a dilemma!

Ziqin discreetly wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes, self-mockingly saying, “I never expected that I would cry for him twice!” She gently flicked the tears from her fingers, watching them disappear into the night breeze, murmuring, “Let it be! I’ll let everything flow away like tears in the wind and just go with the flow.”

Feng Xuewu watched her friend with heartfelt regret and said, “I’m sorry! I really can’t help you much! Actually, I…”

Seeing Feng Xuewu hesitate to continue, Ziqin appeared to mature in an instant and insightfully replied, “Xiao Xue, you don’t need to say anything else. I understand your predicament. Love cannot be resolved by a third party. Moreover, you are also part of this circle of love. But still, thank you. Now that I’ve spoken about it, I feel much better inside.”

Feng Xuewu responded, “What are you thanking me for, dear sister?” After speaking, she showed her concern through her actions, silently accompanying Ziqin as they both immersed themselves in the endless night filled with memories.