Chapter 62: Who Is Master Jun?

The pill auction had just concluded.

Before dawn could break, news of the event swept through the imperial capital like a storm, engulfing every corner in an instant.

The anticipation surrounding the pill auction had been immense. The promotion from the Treasure Pavilion, the invitations issued by the Prince of the South, and the participation of all the major clans had drawn eyes to the event even before it began.

As soon as the auction ended, rumors spread rapidly.

And then—

The entire capital erupted.

“What? Pills that can grant enlightenment? How is that possible?”

“The Fusion Pill—this is an irresistible temptation for every clan leader.”

“The Seven-Star Life Extension Pill, a miraculous remedy, truly exists? For the aging patriarchs whose lifespans are nearly exhausted, this is something they cannot refuse.”

News of the three pills was quickly disseminated. Each was unprecedented, yet their effects were astonishing.

However, even more than the pills themselves, the identity of the alchemist drew the greatest attention.

“This time, the alchemist is a mysterious Master Jun.”

“It's said that Master Jun impressed even the proud and arrogant Yao Wuchen, and the Azure Pill King himself admitted he was inferior.”

“Impossible! Yao Wuchen and the Azure Pill King are the top alchemists of our Great Qian Dynasty. If they both concede, does that mean Master Jun has replaced the Azure Pill King as the new number one?”

The name of Master Jun spread throughout the city, becoming the subject of countless conversations.

The pills were extraordinary, but the alchemist was even more precious.

If one could befriend this alchemist, would there ever be a shortage of pills?

Yet, information about Master Jun was scarce.

No one knew his name.

No one knew his origins.

No one knew his age.

No one knew if he was a man or a woman.

It was as if he had suddenly emerged from the stone itself.

Mysterious.

That was the only impression people had of Master Jun.

“Mobilize all our resources and investigate this Master Jun in secret. Such a skilled alchemist must be found. If we can befriend him, the Nangong Clan will surely rise to new heights!”

Nangong Qing issued swift orders, mobilizing the full might of his clan.

Today’s pill auction had opened his eyes.

His heart burned with the desire to make the acquaintance of this enigmatic Master Jun.

The value of a high-level alchemist was beyond measure.

If the Nangong Clan wished to become the leading family, they must have the support of a powerful alchemist.

If only Nangong Qing knew that the Master Jun he coveted was actually Jun Wushuang, one can only imagine his reaction.

“The Prince has spared no effort in building up the reputation of Master Jun; he must be eager to establish ties. Our Dongfang Clan must not fall behind. Find out everything you can about Master Jun. If we make contact before anyone else, we will have a huge advantage.”

At that moment, Dongfang Wujie was ordering his sons and grandsons.

Master Jun had become a pivotal figure, capable of influencing the balance of power.

The four great clans had been locked in covert and overt struggles, never gaining a decisive advantage.

If one could win Master Jun's allegiance, they would surely stand out.

The title of the foremost clan was not just an honor, but a gateway to enormous profits.

At the same time, the Ximen clan and the Beiming clan issued similar directives.

Not only them, but all the other families rushed to deploy their resources, eager to uncover the true identity of Master Jun and devise ways to win him over.

For a time, hidden currents surged beneath the surface.

Meanwhile, Yao Wuchen, after refusing countless invitations, finally returned to the Prince of the South’s private chamber.

“Grand Master, you saw it yourself. Today’s pill auction set a new record for the Treasure Pavilion.”

“One thousand and eight hundred precious herbs, twenty-four Dao-grade medicines. If converted into spirit stones, the total exceeds one billion—more than our annual revenue. I believe Master Jun will be satisfied.”

Yao Wuchen spoke excitedly, seeking praise from the Prince of the South.

Though he had not crafted the pills himself, he had presided over the auction.

If not credit, then at least hard work!

“Old Yao, you’ve worked hard. I’m sure Master Jun will be pleased.”

The Prince nodded. Tonight’s harvest far surpassed the medicinal ingredients required for the Longevity Elixir.

“Grand Master, please put in a good word for me with Master Jun. Even if I have no merit, I’ve labored tirelessly. Let me meet him just once. Even if I can’t become his disciple, to hear his teachings would be a blessing.”

Yao Wuchen gazed eagerly at the Prince of the South.

The Prince alone knew Master Jun’s identity.

Therefore, Yao Wuchen could only seek a breakthrough through him.

“I will ask on your behalf. If Master Jun agrees, I’ll bring you to him.”

Seeing Yao Wuchen’s anxious demeanor, the Prince of the South couldn’t help but find it amusing.

I still prefer your former unruly attitude.

Perhaps you should revert?

With a smile, the Prince’s thoughts drifted to Jun Wushuang.

This young man, though not old, was incredibly mature.

In his presence, the Prince felt more pressure than when facing the emperor.

It was as if he stood before a divine being, not a mere mortal.

Such composure.

Such monstrous talent.

Such wondrous alchemical skill.

And endless ingenuity.

He was like a bottomless abyss, impossible to fathom.

A true prodigy!

Jun Wushuang’s standing in the Prince’s heart had risen even higher.

Unreachable.

…

“Young Master, you are incredible! The pills you crafted are so sought after.”

At that moment, Jun Wushuang and Lin Mengyao had already left the Treasure Pavilion.

No one knew their identities, and none realized that the famed Master Jun was actually Jun Wushuang.

Thus, the two left effortlessly, spared any trouble.

Master Wu had remained in the Pavilion, not following them.

Night blanketed the capital, its lights ablaze.

The excitement from tonight’s pill auction made the city even more lively than usual.

“Pills are but an aid. Only the power you wield yourself is your true strength.”

Jun Wushuang's expression remained calm, showing not the slightest excitement.

Everything had unfolded as he had anticipated.

As for the name of Master Jun, he cared little for it.

A fleeting reputation.

“Yes, Young Master! I will work hard to hone my swordsmanship!”

Lin Mengyao nodded vigorously, knowing that Jun Wushuang not only sought vengeance against Ji Qingchen, but also faced a life-or-death duel in three months.

So she trained diligently, hoping to share his burdens.

“Come, let’s return and resume our cultivation.”

Jun Wushuang walked with hands behind his back, Lin Mengyao hurriedly followed.

Suddenly!

Just as they stepped into the slums, a cold arrow shot from the darkness, swifter than lightning, charged with murderous intent.

“Young Master, look out!”

Lin Mengyao’s pupils contracted. She threw herself over Jun Wushuang.

Thud!

A dull sound rang out.

The arrow pierced Lin Mengyao’s back, exiting through her chest, passing through her delicate body.

Blood blossomed like flowers, a crimson bloom.

With a single arrow, Lin Mengyao was at death’s door.