Sovereign Of The Three Realms Chapter 11-15

 

Sovereign Of The Three Realms

(SOTR)

Chapter 11: Medicine Buying Craze  

When Jiang Chen opened his eyes the next day, there were a few traces of vitality that hadn’t been present in his eyes before.  

He sat up and stretched, his entire body filled with an explosive type of power.  

Thirty to forty percent of the Heavenly Karma pill’s effects were already amazing enough to pretty much heal eighty to ninety percent of Jiang Chen’s injuries. Added to the fact that his four meridians true qi had spent the night repairing and strengthening his body after he had cleared his fourth meridian, his bodily functions had improved many levels throughout the course of one night.  

Jiang Zheng had been there since early that morning, and was in fine fettle. He was delighted whenever he thought about how he’d lectured his wife and regained his pride as the man of the house last night after she’d apologized, as well as the resulting prowess he’d displayed between the bedsheets yesterday night.  

But he was utterly flabbergasted when he saw Jiang Chen walk out of the room.  

“Young duke, you… you…” Jiang Zheng was unable to find the appropriate words because he was so astonished. Jiang Chen had simply undergone too great of a change.  

The previous Jiang Chen was a rascal and at times domineering, and at times anxious and depressed. In other words, he really wasn’t much of anything.  

But today, the young duke had a brand new look about him. His entire presence and aura was like a newly forged sword straight from the furnace, with keen edges and light.  

“Jiang Zheng, ready my horse. I’m going out.”  

“Yes!” Jiang Zheng would gladly endure hardships. He used to think that running errands for the young duke was a pain, but had been filled with the fires of passion since yesterday.  

It was only after they’d left the manor that Jiang Zheng carefully asked, “Young duke, where are we going?”  

“The Hall of Healing of course.” Jiang Chen chuckled, snapped his whip, and sent his horse galloping. He was in an extremely good mood today, and a man rides a fast horse when he is proud!  

“Eh? Young duke, please wait for your servant!” Jiang Chen had already disappeared off into the distance by the time Jiang Zheng had reacted.  

The Hall of Healing’s majestic buildings appeared in front of Jiang Chen after a short while.  

When Jiang Chen arrived on the Hall’s doorstep, the customers walking in and out of the hall acted as if they’d seen a ghost.  

After all, Jiang Chen was still the son of a duke and had a bit of fame in the capital. That fart he’d let out at the holy temple was enough to make him headline news in the entire capital over the past two days.  

Farting during the Rights of Heavenly Worship, this Jiang Chen was something else alright.  

Therefore, Jiang Chen’s name had been gossiped about extensively over the past two days, and was synonymous with being “unique”.  

Jiang Chen had farted during the Rites of Heavenly Worship and desecrated the gods. The king had commanded for him to be caned to death. This was news that the entire kingdom knew.  

But very few knew that he had not died from his caning  

Therefore, his emergence now was bound to set the rumor mill running again.  

“Do you see that? Isn’t that that good-for-nothing young duke from the Jiang Han province?”  

“So what if he is? There are so many powers in the capital, do you want to suck up to that one?”  

“Suck up your ass. I’m saying that that’s Jiang Chen! Wasn’t he caned to death for farting in the Rites of Heavenly Worship?”  

“What? You’re talking about Jiang Chen? That farting weirdo? Where?”  

Conversations like this were being held all around the Hall of Healing. People clustered in small groups and were almost all discussing the same matter.  

As for the person in question, Jiang Chen, he paid no heed to these silly glances, and was even less inclined to engage with these people.  

He had important matters to deal with at the Hall of Healing.  

There were two more days before he had to enter the palace and treat the princess. He’d have to make some preparations no matter what. It wouldn’t be a very seemly thing to walk in empty handed, and he’d be hard pressed to explain himself.  

Jiang Chen had sketched out a rough plan for dealing with Eastern Zhiruo’s problem, and he had come today to set some things in motion.  

The attitude of the associates at the Hall of Healing had obviously been rectified after the events of yesterday. It was apparent that some internal restructuring had happened.  

Jiang Chen placed a list on the counter. “Hello, I’d like the ingredients on this list.”  

The associate took the list and nodded, but frowned slightly when he reached the last ingredient on the list. “A sixth rank spirit level ingredient? Sir… are you sure you want this ingredient?”  

“Just prepare the ingredients according to the list.” Jiang Chen smiled slightly.  

“But this ingredient…” The associate hesitated.  

“What? Too low level? You don’t have it here? Then swap it out for a Nine Flame Aurora Fruit.”  

It was as if the associate had been hit with a bolt of lightning that fried his insides and cooked his skin. He barely managed to squeeze out a smiling face. “Sir, what is a Nine Flame Aurora Fruit? The Hall doesn’t carry it. The Dragonbone Sun Grass is an item of utmost yang. It’s extremely rare, and one of our treasured spirit ingredients. The Hall only has one in stock and it’s extremely precious, the sales price…”  

“What, think I can’t afford it?” Jiang Chen arched an eyebrow.  

The associate gave a low chuckle and thought, at least you can read between my words. I truly am worried that you can’t afford it. But the beating that his colleague had suffered yesterday told them all to not judge a book by its cover.  

“The thing is, this item is extremely precious and even administrators are unable to take it out. One of our elders has to give permission before we can make a deal.” He patiently explained while subconsciously retracting his head. Surely this gentleman wouldn’t also have an engraved dragon medallion and fling a slap my way?  

“So much trouble for a mere Dragonbone Sun Grass? Where are your elders? Tell them to come out, I don’t have time to waste.” Jiang Chen truly didn’t wish to spend too much time in the Hall of Healing.  

There was nothing the associate could do but send word inside. Jiang Chen was twiddling his thumbs when a great hubbub of noise came from outside the door, and a small crowd of people came inside.  

The leader of the group looked about sixteen or seventeen and was richly dressed in silks and furs. He walked in proudly and closed the distance to the counter in three steps. He slammed his hand onto the counter: “Tell your supervisors to come out. I want a blade of Dragonbone Sun Grass and I’m in a hurry. Come on come on, none of you will be able to bear the consequences if you delay my business.”  

The person’s tone was exceedingly cocky and he had no respect for anyone. He hadn’t even looked at any of the customers at the other counters.  

The associates at the other counters however, were dumbfounded.  

Ordinarily, no one would have a use for this Dragonbone Sun Grass, even over the course of three to five years. But today, two sets of customers had come in looking to buy it as soon as they’d opened for business.  

Had the value for the Dragonbone Sun Grass increased?  

Three people walked out from the back of the Hall of Healing after a short while. Aside from the associate, there was also administrator He and a female elder.  

The female elder looked about forty years old and had drawn on slightly exaggerated eyebrows. She wore an extensive amount of jewelry, and projected a particularly awkward feeling with her fashion choices.  

“Who wants to buy the Dragonbone Sun Grass?” The female elder asked.  

“Me, me! Auntie Blue, do you remember me? I’m the son of the duke of White Tiger dukedom, Bai Zhanyun. Bai Xianling is my father! You held me when I was small.” That cocky teenager started making nice to the female elder.  

“Ah, it’s the young White duke. Is this Dragonbone Sun Grass for you, or your father?”  

The White Tiger dukedom was one of the most preeminent dukedoms in the Eastern Kingdom, it ranked amongst the top five. Therefore, even an elder from the Hall of Healing needed to show their respect.  

“Auntie Blue, don’t ask more questions. Just know that your nephew needs this urgently. Quickly name a price, I will come back and thank you later.”  

Elder Blue gave a coy smile. “You’re in a great hurry. Are you taking this spirit level ingredient and giving it to some girl?”  

Bai Zhanyun “heh”ed in laughter, “Auntie Blue knows best.”  

“Alright, I won’t make fun of you further. The Dragonbone Sun Grass is priced at two million silver. Did you bring enough money?”  

“I did, I did. Would I have come without the money? Everyone knows that your Hall doesn’t do business on credit.” Bai Zhan Yun seemed to be worried.  

Jiang Chen had borne their chatter and laughter for quite a while already. His eyebrows arched as he knocked on the counter. “I say, aren’t you missing something here? Business is first come first served.”  

Both elder Blue and Bai Zhanyun seemed to have only just noticed Jiang Chen. They both gave him a weird look.  

Bai Zhanyun in particular had a very bratty expression on his face. It seemed to say, and who the hell are you?  

“Whoever it was, fellow, I ask you. Wasn’t I the first to want to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass?” Jiang Chen asked lightly.  

The associate would have never thought that another buyer would walk through the doors in such a short span of time. But the Hall’s golden store sign was hanging right there, and he didn’t dare lie.  

He opened and closed his mouth, but was unable to make a sound. Bai Zhanyun seemed to understand something and gave a cold laugh, “You. You want to buy it too.”  

Bai Zhanyun had ran here like the fires of hell were after him not to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass for himself, but because he had heard that the daughter of the most highly ranked duke, Long Teng, in the Eastern Kingdom, Long Juxue, had somehow fallen victim to a cold humours when training. She needed an item of utmost yang for a cure and thus he had immediately run to the Hall of Healing. He wanted to get a head start on the competition by purchasing the Dragonbone Sun Grass and present it to Long Juxue as a gallant gesture.  

His first thought upon hearing that Jiang Chen also wanted to purchase the herb was that the person in front of him was a love rival!  

Jiang Chen swept Bai Zhan Yun an indifferent glance, but didn’t have the interest in talking to an idiot. He only talked to elder Blue, “Lady elder, I ask only one question. Does the Hall of Healing respect the order of priority?”  

Elder Blue was an old hat who had seen her fair share of big scenes, and said with a charming smile. “Well, we definitely respect the order of priority. But some matters are more important than others. Brother Bai here wants to use the Dragonbone Sun Grass to save a life. It is said that saving one life is more noble than building a seven tiered temple for Buddha. He also happens to be the young duke of the White Tiger dukedom. Why don’t you give him some face? Giving him face is the same as…”  

Bai Zhanyun puffed his chest out and said proudly, “Right. You. You look a bit familiar. What’s your name? If you give up the Dragonbone Sun Grass to me, then I, Bai Zhanyun, will take complete care of you in the capital!”  

Jiang Chen didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. It was obvious to see that elder Blue was biased towards Bai Zhan Yun.  

“What if I don’t wish to?” Jiang Chen riposted coolly and gave a light laugh.  

“What?” Bai Zhanyun was more than a little surprised. “What’s wrong with you? I am the heir to the White Tiger dukedom, the future White Tiger duke. You don’t even show respect to the four great dukes of the kingdom? You. You’re cocky. Tell me your name. Let me see how great is the person who doesn’t even respect me, the heir of White Tiger dukedom.”  

At the moment, someone watching the show dared to speak up, “He’s Jiang Chen.”  

“The heir of Jiang Han dukedom I think.”  

“Yeah, that’s him. But wasn’t he caned to death?”  

Both Bai Zhanyun and elder Blue were stunned by these responses. The heir of the Jiang Han dukedom?  

Bai Zhanyun’s gaze sharpened on Jiang Chen and finally seemed to recognize him. He pointed at Jiang Chen and started laughing loudly. “You. It really is you. Weren’t you dead? Alright you Jiang Chen, you pretended to be dead. This is misleading the king and treason!”  

Jiang Chen’s entire being had underwent a significant change thanks to a round of training. Add to that the fact that Bai Zhanyun hadn’t had much contact with Jiang Chen before, and you get why the former hadn’t recognized Jiang Chen earlier.  

He felt on even firmer footing after he’d identified Jiang Chen. “Jiang Chen, you’ve got some guts. It’s one thing to play dead, how dare you brazenly come out in public when you’re supposed to be dead. This is clear provocation against His Majesty’s authority, and a public insult against the royal family. I think you should hurry home and get your affairs in order. Even if you are able to buy it, will you have the life to use it?”  

Jiang Chen had a face full of resignation and turned his head to smile wryly at elder Blue. “Would the Hall of Healing rather do business with idiots than sell spirit level ingredients to normal people?”  

Bai Zhanyun was immediately enraged, “Jiang Chen, who are you calling an idiot?”  

Jiang Chen shrugged. “Definitely an idiot. Can’t even solve such a simple question? Who else is an idiot here apart from you?”  

The crowd watching the show grew heated with excitement. Had these two young dukes eaten gunpowder today? Each was more bold than the last, each was more domineering than the last.  

Was a battle of who could be more good for naught about to take place?

Chapter 12: Genius Beauty? Jiang Chen Doesn’t Care  

Bai Zhanyun, the heir of White Tiger dukedom, was a domineering, bratty sort.  

But wasn’t this heir of the Jiang Han dukedom, who had even committed the crazy act of the century, by farting during the Rites of Heavenly Worship, a legendary good for nothing? When had he turned so awesome?  

At this moment, he wasn’t even treating the heir of the White Tiger dukedom seriously. This was a development of going against the heavens!  

One had to know, that although the duke of Jiang Han was ranked in the top 15 of the 108 dukes, the duke of White Tiger was ranked number 4. He was one of the four most renowned and preeminent dukes in the kingdom.  

Differences in strength existed between dukes of different rankings. In reality, the duke of Jiang Han and the duke of White Tiger weren’t on the same level at all!  

Besides, thanks to his earth shattering fart, Jiang Chen’s life story had been dug up by the rumor mills over the past two days. Who didn’t know that Jiang Chen was dandy and a ne’er do well?  

It was precisely because of this that everyone was incredibly shocked by Jiang Chen’s attitude.  

“Hahaha, although you weren’t caned to death, you were beaten into an idiot, weren’t you Jiang Chen? Good, good. You were lucky last time and weren’t beaten to death. I shall relieve some of his Majesty’s burden today, and beat you to death for a reward.”  

It was at this moment that another hubbub stirred at the Hall’s doors, and a crowd of young men surrounding a girl in a white dress walked in.  

The crowd of young men started yelling as soon as they walked in: “We want the Dragonbone Sun Grass, bring it here swiftly. My household, the Yanmen dukedom, will be buying.”  

“Huh. When was it your turn to pay. My Vermillion Bird dukedom will be having this Dragonbone Sun Grass!”  

These youths fought each other for the chance to pay the bill, livening up the atmosphere at once in the lobby of the Hall of Healing.  

Jiang Chen rubbed his nose as he thought, Do these people have more money than what they know what to do with? What’s the deal with them today? Did all these guys make a pact to come annoy me today?  

Although, that didn’t really seem to be the case. How could the others have known that he needed the Dragonbone Sun Grass? Plus, Jiang Chen himself didn’t believe that he had somehow offended so many so deeply, to the point where the heirs of multiple dukedoms were ganging up on him.  

In a matter of moments, there were at least seven or eight people who were vying for the opportunity to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass. Each was displaying a level of resolution that indicated they would not rest until they got their hands on it.  

This put elder Blue in a quandary. She was an expert at observing people, how could she not tell that this crowd of young men were putting on a show for the girl?  

But, there was only one of the Dragonbone Sun Grass? She was bound to insult a large group of people, no matter who she sold it to.  

These little emperors were all the devil incarnate. No matter who she offended, it would be a dicey matter, not to mention that this offense would be given to quite a few people.  

Elder Blue thought furiously, glanced at Jiang Chen out of the corner of her eye and formed an idea.  

“Dearest young dukes, we are honored and flattered by your presence. However, the Hall of Healing has always had one rule when it comes to doing business. It was Jiang Chen, the heir to the Jiang Han dukedom, who first wanted to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass. Anyone who wishes to buy it instead can only do so if he is willing to give it up. The Hall of Healing will sell to anyone who can convince him. This is the rule, and we hope for your understanding.”  

What a way to shift blame and responsibility. Nicely played.  

The Hall of Healing had washed its hands of the matter this way, and thrown the hot potato to Jiang Chen.  

If he refused to give it up, then that would be Jiang Chen’s issue, not the Hall’s. It would be Jiang Chen offending people, and not them.  

All gazes swiveled as one and locked onto Jiang Chen.  

“Eh, why is it him?”  

“Jiang Chen? The joker that farted during the Rites? Isn’t he dead?”  

“Did he fake being a corpse?”  

“Was this kid lucky and didn’t get beaten to death?”  

“Too weird, too weird. Weird things happen every year, and there’s a ton of them this year.”  

“Hah. Who cares if he died or not. No one can take this Dragonbone Sun Grass from me!”  

“Jiang Chen, there’s no place here for your lowly Jiang Han dukedom. Accept your place and bow out.”  

“That’s right. How dare a criminal show his face?”  

“Go back and prepare your affairs!”  

Only a few people had known that he hadn’t died, so these people’s reactions didn’t surprise Jiang Chen in the least.  

What surprised him was that, did his face truly that provoke that much anger and hate? Why were these guys stomping all over him?  

He ignored all the hostile glares and smiled wryly, “Did I fail to check the almanac before leaving the house today? Dealing with one idiot is irritating enough, but now I have to deal with a crowd of idiots?”  

He didn’t waste more time on idle chatter and stared at elder Blue, saying coldly, “Elder Blue, what good use of pawning off your issues onto someone else. I don’t want to hear your blather; are you selling the Dragonbone Sun Grass or not?”  

Elder Blue’s face darkened, “Are you threatening me? If that’s the case, then I really will wash my hands of this matter!”  

“Just a moment!”  

Someone hurriedly walked out from the back of the lobby. It was the third hallmaster.  

The third hallmaster was absolutely livid and said harshly, “What’s your problem elder Blue? Why can’t you even take care of such a small matter? The Hall of Healing conducts our business according to one rule, we sell to whoever comes first!”  

Elder Blue was momentarily dumbfounded, thinking: Did you take the wrong medicine this morning? Don’t you see this crowd of little emperors eyeing their prize? Aren’t you afraid of all these little demons holding a grudge if you sell to Jiang Chen?  

Not to mention, was it necessary to go to these lengths for a mere Jiang Han heir, and a worthless good-for-nothing at that?  

The third hallmaster completely ignored elder Blue’s confused look and smiled at Jiang Chen, “Young duke Jiang, you are the first who wished to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass, and thus naturally it’s buyer according to our rules.”  

He paused, and then turned towards the other heirs of their dukedoms, “Gentlemen, my apologies. The Hall of Healing is able to have a foothold in the Eastern Kingdom purely because of our golden sign based on credibility and rules. I am deeply honored that you have seen fit to patron the Hall of Healing, but unfortunately there is currently only one of the Dragonbone Sun Grass. We can only sell it to the person who has arrived first: young duke Jiang. As for whether or not young duke Jiang wishes to give it up for anyone present, that is not up to me to decide.”  

“However, this is the Hall of Healing, we ask for your understanding and to refrain from unruly behavior.” The third hallmaster’s tone hardened slightly.  

The Hall of Healing wasn’t a place in which just anyone could come and cause a ruckus.  

What?  

Was the third hallmaster crazy? He was selling the Dragonbone Sun Grass to Jiang Chen?  

Any of the assembled young dukes present were more prominent, more powerful, than the heir to Jiang Han. Had the third hallmaster taken the wrong medicine this morning?  

What made them even more taken aback was that the third hallmaster then turned a face of such welcome and cheer towards Jiang Chen and said, “Young duke Jiang, my apologies for the offense. Please follow me inside, so that the Hall can offer a cup of tea in apology.”  

The crowd of little emperors were completely dumbfounded by this turn of events.  

When had this worthless dandy, who had no inkling of presence whatsoever on the Hidden Dragon Trials, become so popular in the Hall of Healing?  

Even the girl in white dress that the crowd had clustered around turned her gaze onto Jiang Chen for the first time.  

This girl was the beloved daughter of the Eastern Kingdom’s first duke, Long Teng’s daughter, Long Juxue.  

The horde of dukedom heirs were fighting amongst themselves mostly due to a desire to ingratiate themselves with this Long Juxue. The whole hubbub over purchasing the Dragonbone Sun Grass was to offer it to her, and to cure her cold humours.  

However, Jiang Chen wasn’t the slightest bit interested in this crowd of crazies. When he caught a glimpse of Jiang Zheng lurking behind the third hallmaster with a sidelong glance, he understood the situation perfectly. He smiled lightly, “Please wrap up the spirit level ingredients that I wanted. As for payment…”  

The third hallmaster hastily said, “Let’s talk about payment later. Shall we have tea?”  

The items were wrapped quickly and placed into Jiang Chen’s hands. He walked inside with the third hallmaster, but how could he not have known that the reason behind the third hallmaster’s attentions was the latter’s desire to finalize the contract for the Heavenly Karma pill?  

Otherwise, how could the third hallmaster have ignored all the other heirs and insisted on selling the Dragonbone Sun Grass to him? And to give him such face to boot?  

“A moment, brother Jiang Chen.” A well dressed, handsome young man emerged from the crowd. “I am the heir of Black Tortoise, Yi Taichu. I sincerely request that you give up the Dragonbone Sun Grass to me. I am willing to pay double the price for your friendship, is that amenable to you?”  

One had to say, this Yi Taichu handled things far more appropriately than that White Tiger heir Bai Zhanyun. However, this Dragonbone Sun Grass was of certain use to Jiang Chen. There was no way he was giving it to someone else.  

“My apologies, I have use for this blade of the Dragonbone Sun Grass and cannot give it away. Brother Yi, you are in the prime of your life, but find yourself so bored as to run errands for a pretty face?”  

Jiang Chen smiled noncommittally as he flicked a glance towards Long Juxue, feeling especially disapproving towards her. This woman was allowing such a crowd of heirs to preen and strut before her, yet spoke no word in return. This type of woman was either vain, or had duplicitous intentions. So what if she was as beautiful as the flowers?  

In his past life, this type of woman wouldn’t even be fit to be a maid to his ladies in waiting.  

Yi Taichu felt a bit awkward, but still retained his grace and good manners. He thought briefly, and seemed to think through something. He abruptly left without a word.  

Long Juxue was even more ill disposed towards Jiang Chen upon seeing Yi Taichu leave. She greatly enjoyed the feeling of the crowd of youths fighting over her. Only when millions worshipped the moon, could her status as the center of attention be fully displayed.  

But this Jiang Chen was throwing a wrench in the works, and was truly despiteful.  

The worst thing was, this Jiang Chen hadn’t even really looked at her throughout all of this. How was this the style of a ne’er-do-well, who was ridiculous beyond belief?  

If it was any other day, Long Juxue couldn’t even be bothered to spare a glance for someone on the level of Jiang Chen. But today, in this type of setting, the oddities of a woman’s heart made her feel extremely put out, and think that Jiang Chen was purposely denying her face.  

She even felt that Jiang Chen was intentionally playacting to be a generous, carefree and mysterious stranger. This was another type of trick to draw her attention.  

An heir to a small dukedom; trash that’s not even worth the effort of carrying it in hand, pretending to be deep? Hmph. I’d like to see if it’s possible for you to look like a fool in front of me!  

Her thoughts spun as she suddenly moved towards Jiang Chen, each step as graceful as a lotus.  

“Jiang Chen is it?” Long Juxue’s voice was cool. “As far as I know, you have no use for this level of spirit ingredient. These family friends are fighting to purchase the Dragonbone Sun Grass because they wish to cure me of my cold humours. Why do you seek to buy it?”  

Although her words weren’t terribly ugly, the meaning behind them was apparent. You, lowly Jiang Chen, have no way to use the Dragonbone Sun Grass.  

If Jiang Chen was attempting to please Long Juxue in fighting to buy it, then it was time to stop the charade.  

Jiang Chen felt nonplussed as he looked at this woman who was too full of herself. He smiled without really seeming to, “Then what do you think I need it for?”  

“I don’t care what you need it for. If you wanted to gift it to me, I accept your sincerity and will remember you.” She replied indifferently. “If not, then, I will also remember you, Jiang Chen.”  

This, was a pure and naked threat.

Chapter 13: I, Jiang Chen, Carry Even More of a Grudge Than You Do  

Long Juxue made no attempt to conceal her pride and superiority at being the beloved daughter of the first duke. Her tone was indifferent, but it gave others a feeling of undisputable confidence.  

“Out of the 108 dukedoms in the Eastern Kingdom, there is nothing that anyone can steal from me if I, Long Juxue, want it.”  

Jiang Chen was startled into laughter, “That absolute? No exception?”  

“Exceptions are impossible.” Long Juxue responded coldly, “At least, I’ve never met one.”  

“Alright…” Jiang Chen smiled faintly. “Then I congratulate you, you’ve met one today.”  

One had to say, this woman’s sense of superiority was far too strong. She maintained a lofty and haughty demeanor even when she was asking for a favor. As if she was bestowing some great favor by talking to Jiang Chen, like a snow white swan blessing a lowly toad.  

But this kind of attitude was beyond laughable in Jiang Chen’s eyes.  

The daughter of the first duke in the Eastern Kingdom? So what? Even if it was the first duke himself, such a person wouldn’t even be qualified to carry Jiang Chen’s shoes in Jiang Chen’s past life.  

Long Juxue lost face to a man for the first time in her life as she watched Jiang Chen’s resolute figure with the third hallmaster.  

“Jiang Chen, I’ll remember you. If I let you successfully pass the Hidden Dragon Trials at the end of the year, then I will change my surname to be the same as yours!”  

“I, Bai Zhanyun, will also remember you. You may have won today, but I will show you the price of insulting me during the Hidden Dragon Trials. This isn’t something that a mere Jiang Han dukedom can endure!”  

“And I, the Vermillion Bird dukedom, and the Yanmen dukedom!”  

These guys had wanted to proclaim their interest and devotion, but their plans had been thwarted. Hearts burning with anger, how could they not take advantage of the chance to beat down on an easy target?  

Jiang Chen naturally paid no heed to these kinds of threats. Rather, he thought it quite humerous that these fellows voluntarily identified themselves.  

Tripping over each other to identify themselves eh. They might as well, this saves me the trouble of finding them one by one in the future. White Tiger, Vermillion Bird, Yanmen is it? You like to hold a grudge is it? It won’t be long before you learn that I, Jiang Chen, carry even more of a grudge than you do!  

If it was any normal day, the third hallmaster would never involve himself in the various ducal feuds. But this time, he had no choice, he had to support Jiang Chen wholeheartedly.  

When Jiang Zheng came to find him, he knew that this was his only choice, and the Hall’s only choice.  

Otherwise, making Jiang Chen unhappy meant losing the Heavenly Karma pill, and meant losing a huge business deal.  

A few ducal heirs was in no way worth as much as such a business deal.  

Not to mention, these heirs had no reason to vent their spleen on the Hall of Healing. They would only choose to direct their attention to the seemingly weaker Jiang Chen.  

As for how Jiang Chen would handle the situation, the third hallmaster didn’t really care. What he was more concerned with was properly handling the matter at hand.  

The negotiations had gone very smoothly, and the contract had been drafted yesterday. Jiang Chen had made a few suggestions regarding some minor details, and allowed Jiang Zheng to sign it.  

He was an heir to a dukedom, and naturally wouldn’t appear for such a small issue.  

Of course, Jiang Chen didn’t fully trust the Hall of Healing. He still controlled two vital parts; there was no way that he would unreservedly share the entire recipe and refining method.  

He had to be on his guard against the possibility of the Hall of Healing having second thoughts once it received the entire recipe and refining method.  

The contract was thus happily signed. Because Jiang Chen still had control over the key areas, the contract stipulated that Jiang Chen would visit the hall once on odd numbered months, and twice on even numbered months.  

In the world of practitioners, pill medicine was exceedingly precious. An ordinary healing pill was sold for one or two thousand silver. Slightly higher level pill went for three to five thousand silver.  

And the Heavenly Karma pill would sell for around eight to ten thousand silver due to its potency and effects. It would be positioned as a luxury item and would undoubtedly have a large market.  

So even if only one hundred pills were refined a month, that was still a revenue worth millions of dollars. It was a market worth tens of millions in a year.  

This was also the lowest, most conservative estimate.  

And what about when they entered the markets of the neighboring sixteen kingdoms, and expanded their production, refining thousands or even tens of thousands a month? With the sixteen neighbors’ purchasing power, even if the Hall produced tens of thousands of pill a month, demand would far outstrip supply.  

It was easy enough to imagine the vastness of this market with a few simple calculations.  

Thus, it was easy to understand why the third hallmaster was so eager to please.  

When the contract had been signed, the third hallmaster raised the suggestion of dining at the Autumn Crane, but was politely declined by Jiang Chen. Keeping a low profile was the name of the game in his partnership with the Hall of Healing. He didn’t want it to become common knowledge within the city.  

Besides, he was only in a business partnership with the Hall of Healing; they weren’t friendly enough to the point of sharing a drink.  

The third hallmaster politely sent Jiang Chen on his way with two other elders accompanying him, including that elder Blue.  

Elder Blue still nursed some prejudices against Jiang Chen, and her facial expressions were stiff.  

Jiang Chen was well aware of this, and felt that this woman’s magnanimity and grace were as narrow as a rat’s stomach or chicken’s intestines. She better not ruin my plans in the future, I still need to irritate others with sarcastic words when the situation calls for it.  

He thought for a bit and suddenly smiled, “Third hallmaster, if we didn’t have this cooperation in place, you most likely would not have sold the Dragonbone Sun Grass to me today, would you?”  

“Haha, how can you say that. The Hall still adheres to our rules when conducting business.” The third hallmaster gave a hearty laugh, but even he himself didn’t quite believe his words.  

Rules were a dead thing, but people were living. If it wasn’t for this business deal, then the Dragonbone Sun Grass would have gone to anyone but Jiang Chen.  

Jiang Chen also laughed heartily and didn’t poke holes in the third hallmaster’s charade. He said, “No matter the reason, I can only say that the third hallmaster made a wise decision.”  

“What makes you say that?” The third hallmaster’s interest was piqued.  

“Simple. Because obtaining the Dragonbone Sun Grass was a mission appointed by the king himself. If you hadn’t sold it to me, then the lawsuits that the Hall of Healing would have faced would have been many. Hahaha, I’ve spoken too much, too much.”  

Jiang Chen laughed heartily again, swiftly mounted his horse, and gave a long laugh, “You don’t need to continue sending me off, third hallmaster.”  

The third hallmaster was dumbfounded and became deep in thought as he watched Jiang Chen gallop off into the distance.  

“The king himself?” The third hallmaster murmured to himself as he thought of yesterday’s engraved dragon medallion. He subtly felt that, perhaps this Jiang Chen had not spoken a falsehood.  

“This brat can make a good boast The king himself? Wasn’t he just beaten by His Majesty?” Elder Blue pouted and muttered disdainfully.  

The third hallmaster glared at her severely, “What do you know? You almost wrecked the deal today! Take this to heart, be smarter about how you conduct business in the future! Do you think his engraved dragon medallion is a fake? You think that the wind blew in the Heavenly Karma pill receipe?”  

Elder Blue had nothing to say. True, there’s something odd about this brat.  

The third hallmaster was still haunted about what could have been, and issued a warning. “No matter the situation, all of you remember this! Humble yourself in front of Jiang Chen! He is not a simple character!”  

Deep within the palace.  

Eastern Lu slowly put down the book in his hand and lightly tasted the tea in the cup on the table.  

“Tiandu, what news from the Jiang Han household?”  

“Your Majesty, the duke of Jiang Han has been quiet, without making any movements.”  

“And the kid?”  

“The kid? He seems to have stayed home all day yesterday, and went to the Hall of Healing this morning. He got into a conflict with a crowd of heirs…”  

The trusted guard called Tiandu gave a thorough overview of the situation, missing not a single detail.  

“Oh? This kid was severely beaten and not only didn’t die, but could prance around on the streets today? When did my guards become unable to carry out a decent beating?” Eastern Lu smiled but didn’t really seem to. “But, you say that the Hall of Healing supported Jiang Chen and ignored those sons of eminent duchies?”  

“Your servant also thought it odd, but this is the truth. In addition, the Hall of Healing kept him as a guest and entertained him for quite a while. It would seem that this kid is not as useless as the rumors say he is.”  

Eastern Lu was deep in thought and nodded, “I hope so. We can only pin our hopes for Zhiruo’s sickness on him. I hope this kid doesn’t get up to any tricks.”  

“It wouldn’t seem so. If he’s running a con, how would he dare swagger into the public like this? Deceiving the monarch is not a crime that the Jiang Han duchy can afford to commit.”  

“Tiandu, remember this. Protect this kid no matter what. Fully carry out whatever plans he has. If anyone is so blind as to cause trouble, punish first and ask questions later, no matter their identity.” Eastern Lu commanded.  

It was quite obvious that Eastern Lu had no desire for a repeat of the events of this morning. He deduced that the Dragonbone Sun Grass had something to do with his daughter’s illness!  

If it has something to do with my daughter’s illness, then even Long Teng’s heir must step aside for me!  

Jiang Chen did not immediately return home upon leaving the Hall. He had some more errands to run. There were a lot of preparations to be made before entering the palace in three days.  

He hadn’t walked far before his keen instinct enabled him to discover someone surreptitiously following him. He couldn’t be bothered to reveal their existence.  

“Huh. Someone who is blind. Come at me if you’re truly strong enough to steal even from Eastern Lu!” Jiang Chen did not care in the slightest if he caused a clash between monarch and subject.  

Others had been treated to a grand show at the Rites of Heavenly Worship. If someone was so blind as to step out of line and create trouble, he wouldn’t mind if a nice struggle between monarch and subject developed.  

He would even cleverly, subtlely, play along.  

What Jiang Chen felt regret about was that public security was actually quite well in within the capital. At least something like robbery in broad daylight didn’t occur.  

“What a bunch of spineless people. The Dragonbone Sun Grass is here right now, come on out and try to grab it. I’d definitely not risk my life for Eastern Lu. I would happily hand it over if you tried to grab it, and then happily hand you over when Eastern Lu questions me about it.”  

Jiang Chen was joyfully anticipating something like this happening as he walked, but sadly enough, those tailing him never came to rob him. This made him a bit depressed.  

“What a bunch of cowardly robbers!” Jiang Chen shook his head and thought no more of this small interlude. He spurred his horse on towards the Turquoise Hall, he had more errands to run.

Chapter 14: Denying Face Twice  

The heir of White Tiger, Bai Zhanyun and the heir of Vermillion Bird, Hong Tiantong were surreptitiously discussing something in a secluded tavern in the capital.  

“Brother White, the kid is extremely cocky. He thinks nothing of you or me, particularly you Brother White. You and he arrived at almost the same time, but he stole the Dragonbone Sun Grass from you, this cannot be tolerated!”  

Hong Tiantong was obviously quite crafty and his words carried evident overtones of provocation.  

“Huh! Jiang Chen, insulting I, Bai Zhanyun, is to seek death!”  

As Bai Zhanyun spoke, an underling in charge of following others came hurriedly rushing in.  

“Young duke, the kid didn’t go back to the Jiang Han manor. He seems to have gone to the Turquoise Hall.”  

“Turquoise Hall? What’s that kid doing there? Does he want to buy spirit stones?” Hong Tiantong was a bit skeptical.  

Bai Zhanyun, on the other hand, displayed a strange smile upon hearing those words. “Turquoise Hall is it? Are you sure?”  

“Your servant has been continuously following him and could not have been mistaken.”  

Bai Zhanyun laughed joyfully. “Jiang Chen you brat, you’ve brought this upon yourself. The owner of Turquoise Hall is my uncle!”  

He grew even more proud when he finished speaking. “Brother Hong, come. Let’s go watch the show and ruthlessly insult this kid. Let’s also seize the Dragonbone Sun Grass while we’re at it!”  

Their current location wasn’t that far from the Turquoise Hall. The two of them quickly arrived and entered through the back door.  

Turquoise Hall was a retailer that specialized in spirit and exotic stones. Its scale of operations was all encompassing, and was a premier brand in the capital.  

Jiang Chen’s visit was naturally not for viewing or admiring stones, but to customize a stone.  

He wandered around the Turquoise Hall for half a day, calling upon his past life’s various memories of appraising stones to decide on a particular stone. He discussed, and settled on the price.  

The owner of Turquoise Hall hastily walked out when Jiang Chen was waiting to pay. He smiled, “Little brother, what a horrid coincidence. I’ve only just learned myself that the crouching yang stone you’ve reserved was already reserved by someone else last night.”  

“Who reserved it? What a coincidence!” Jiang Chen was quite surprised, did such a coincidence truly exist in this world?  

“Why, the great me of course!” An ear piercing voice rang out from behind as Bai Zhanyun sauntered out.  

“Jiang Chen, how unfortunate. I’ve purchased this yang stone. You want it? Hand over the Dragonbone Sun Grass. I may just consider giving the stone to you if I’m in a good mood.”  

Jiang Chen was quick on his feet. When he saw Bai Zhanyun, that coyly smirking Hong Tiantong behind him and then the owner of Turquoise Hall, he understood the situation at once.  

It seems like this Bai Zhanyun was bored out of his empty mind. He’d started a fight at the Hall of Healing and continued it to the Turqouise Hall. He really wanted to start something with Jiang Chen.  

However, the owner of Turquoise Hall was greatly demeaning himself in taking orders from the son of a duke. Jiang Chen’s opinion of the man was abruptly revised downwards.  

“Interesting. Interesting. Boss Song, are you sure you’re not selling the stone to me?” Jiang Chen asked as he maintained his composure.  

Bai Zhanyun bellowed, “Jiang Chen, I’ve already told you that I will only give up the stone if you hand over the Dragonbone Sun Grass. Otherwise, don’t even think of getting the crouching yang stone.”  

“Oh? What if I must have it?” Jiang Chen smiled lightly.  

“Hahaha, do you think I, the mighty Bai Zhanyun, would give it up to you? I’d sooner buy this stone to line my latrines than give it to you.”  

“Your household’s latrines are certainly fancy. So, there’s no room for negotiation?”  

“Negotiation my ass! Either you hand over the Dragonbone Sun Grass or get the hell out of here!” Bai Zhanyun also more or less knew that it would be unrealistic to expect Jiang Chen to hand over the Dragonbone Sun Grass.  

Jiang Chen laughed heartily and paid Bai Zhanyun no heed. He couldn’t be bothered to waste spittle on idiots like Bai Zhanyun. It’s not like he was buying stuff for himself.  

He was purchasing equipment for the royal princess. He wasn’t about to waste time and effort in explanations. Since the village idiot Bai Zhanyun wanted to go up against the royal family, then by all means let him try.  

“Boss Song. It seems like you’re a smart guy engaging in dumb transactions.” Jiang Chen laughed lightly and shook his head with a sigh. “If you don’t sell to me now, it will be too late even if you come to me crying in the future.”  

He waltzed out without a glance at Bai Zhanyun or Hong Tiantong after that.  

He’d just reached the main lobby when an associate came tearing in, his expression extremely terrified. He murmured a few sentences next to boss Song’s ear with a face full of fearful reservations. He didn’t even dare meet Jiang Chen’s eyes.  

Boss Song’s face abruptly whitened after he’d finished listening. It was as if all the blood had been suddenly sucked out of his body. His face was starkly white and his lips infused with bitterness.  

He called out in a voice that was almost crying, “Young duke Jiang, hold your steps, please hold your steps! This crouching yang stone is yours. Turquoise Hall will not charge you anything and will immediately courier it to your manor.”  

Boss Song’s attitude did a complete 180 in a blink of an eye, greatly surprising Bai Zhanyun and Hong Tiantong.  

Particularly Bai Zhanyun, his very foot hopped in astonishment.  

“Uncle, are you serious? Haven’t we already agreed?”  

Boss Song had a woeful face. “I say little emperor, don’t make things tough for your uncle. Don’t throw us mere mortals into the middle when you celestial beings are fighting.”  

Bai Zhanyun became enraged. “Celestial being? Faugh. What kind of crap celestial being is Jiang Chen? His Jiang Han dukedom doesn’t even rank in the top out of all 108 Eastern Kingdom dukedoms. You’re scared of him uncle?”  

If he hadn’t been intimidated by Bai Zhanyun’s old man, boss Song would have definitely rushed up and dealt out the beating of a lifetime. He would first beat Bai Zhanyun so hard that he wouldn’t be able to function normally, and then disdainfully spit on him a few times for good measure.  

This brat was not only the ruination of his family, but also dragging boss Song down with him!  

Boss Song almost leapt forward and attached himself to Jiang Chen’s thigh. “Young duke, I was senseless and blind. I beg you, I beg you to accept it! Please view this crouching yang stone as a token of old Song’s devotion!”  

They said to forgive and forget, Jiang Chen had no intentions of making too much of a fuss over a small business owner.  

He smiled, “Boss Song, your words actually highlight that I am an ungrateful person. Since you are so sincere, I will accept this stone if I must. As for the price, someone will naturally pay for it. Send the stone to a certain address on the day after tomorrow. I will notify you of the address when it’s time.”  

“Yes, yes. The young duke is magnanimous and generous. I am shamed, shamed.”  

Jiang Chen laughed heartily. How could he not know that someone outside must have intervened, resulting in old Song’s about face?  

As for who intervened, that was even more obvious.  

How many houses within the capital possessed such power that not even the great dukes dared to defy? And at this moment, who else other than the royal family would protect Jiang Chen’s interests?  

“It would seem that ole Eastern Lu has made certain preparations. Afraid I’ll renege?” Jiang Chen shook his head in his mind and stepped out merrily.  

He’d finished preparing all the components needed for the initial steps.  

Bai Zhanyun had been repeatedly ignored by Jiang Chen and suffered under a most ignoble feeling of defeat. He glared ferociously at boss Song, “Uncle, you must give me an explanation for this matter!”  

Boss Song rolled his eyes, “Bai Zhanyun, you’d best watch yourself! This is the capital, not your White Tiger territory! Think about whether or not you can afford to offend someone before behaving atrociously. As your uncle, I’ll give you a word of advice. Be careful of ruining generations of your family’s work in a single night if you make one wrong step!”  

Boss Song was absolutely not being an alarmist. His associate had only spoken two sentences just now.  

The first was, “Commander Tiandu of the royal guard is outside”, and the second was, “we must sell the crouching yang stone to Jiang Chen, or else face the consequences.”  

Those two sentences alone were enough to alter boss Song’s attitude.  

Who didn’t know that the royal guard was the king’s personal guard, a contingent with one of the highest fighting competencies, an entity that held the power of life and death in the Eastern Kingdom?  

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that if the royal guard was offended, even the White Tiger duke would end up in pieces, not to mention a mere boss Song!  

The royal guard was also one of the most powerful forces within the kingdom. What did this indicate when an entity of this caliber was secretly protecting Jiang Chen’s interests?  

Boss Song wasn’t an idiot, he could read the writing on the wall and discern the seriousness of the situation.  

It was with certain resignation that he couldn’t clearly explain himself in the face of Bai Zhanyun’s whining complaints. His warnings fulfilled the duties of being a relative.  

If Bai Zhanyun insisted on pursuing this like moths to a flame, then boss Song would have to draw a line between the White family and his at the earliest opportunity.  

Bai Zhanyun was still cussing and ranting as he accused boss Song of not honoring relationship ties. Hong Tiantong however, was deep in thought. He thought this development was too strange. This had happened not only once, but twice!  

“Is it possible that this Jiang Chen really has some influential figure backing him up?”  

As for Jiang Chen, he didn’t loiter outside once he’d completed his errands, but made straight for the Jiang Han manor.  

Two people walked out as soon as he’d set foot into the doorway. One of them was Jiang Feng, the duke of Jiang Han and father that he’d gotten for cheap.  

The other was a middle aged man with a gloomy and ominous face. His expression was cold and he walked straight towards the exit. The duke of Jiang Han was accompanying him with a somewhat obsequious smile, murmuring something in a low voice.  

His manner was even a bit humble.  

But no matter how warmly Jiang Feng came off, it was as if he was putting a hot face next to a cold butt. The middle aged man remained remote and had no reaction at all.  

When they reached the door, they ran into a just returning Jiang Chen.  

Jiang Chen finally recalled who this man was from his past self’s memories. Assistant Organizer Du?  

This man was actually one of the main organizers of the Hidden Dragon Trials.  

“Chen’er, you’ve come back? Come and greet the great Organizer Du. I’ve finally been able to invite him to our manor but unfortunately, master Du needs to go attend to a few matters.”  

That Assistant Organizer Du flicked a glance at Jiang Chen, and smiled without really smiling, “You’re Jiang Chen?”  

As one of the main organizers of the Hidden Dragon Trials, he naturally knew who Jiang Chen was. This question was obviously fake.  

Jiang Chen was a smart guy and a keen observer. He feared that his father had gotten a face full of dust from this fellow, and replied noncommittally, “That’s me. You’re Assistant organizer Du?”  

Du Ruhai, the assistant organizer of the Hidden Dragon Trials, was ranked number two in terms of real power. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that he held the fortunes of all the great families participating in the Trials!  

No matter which duke it was, who didn’t present a polite and ingratiating front when they met Du Ruhai? Who wouldn’t humble themselves?  

If he threw a wrench into the works at a critical moment because you offended him, you wouldn’t even know how you died.  

Therefore, seeing that Jiang Chen was not only not eager to please, but in fact questioned him back with this sort of tone, organizer Du was quickly incensed.  

It wasn’t that Du Ruhai had no measure of subtlety, but more like he had no need to pretend he was generous and forgiving in front of the Jiang household.  

His expression froze, “Duke of Jiang Han? Your son is quite a character. He dared desecrate even the Rites of Heavenly Worship, no wonder he doesn’t think much of a mere organizer .”  

Jiang Feng knew things were bad when he heard those words, and was about to apologize.  

Du Ruhai spread out his hands and laughed coldly. “Duke of Jiang Han, no further words are necessary. I was planning to help your son during the Hidden Dragon Trials. But I’ve received a lot of messages from other dukes this afternoon, saying that your son has no understanding of morals or ethics. Helping him would be akin to putting myself in harm’s way. Therefore, you’re on your own for the Trials!”  

“Organizer Du, this…” Jiang Feng was extremely agitated.  

“Duke of Jiang Han, don’t blame me for speaking frankly. Even without the dukes’ reminders, based purely on your son’s good-for-nothing attitude, you should be offering daily prayers that I don’t make life difficult for him!”  

Du Ruhai arbitrarily decided to cast aside all consideration for others.

Chapter 15: Three Foundational Exams  

Seeing as everything had been laid out on the table, there was no point in Du Ruhai further concealing his blatant threat. With his status in the kingdom, there was no need to be polite to a duke who was about to lose his power and influence.  

Jiang Feng had originally wanted to plead for leniency, hoping for a fluke, but his face darkened as well upon hearing the last couple of sentences. “Organizer Du, insult me if you must, but leave my son alone! So what if the young are a bit good-for-nothing? Are you that certain that my son won’t turn himself around? They say to bully the old but not the young!”  

“What a pretty turn of phrase! Do you mean to tell me what goes around comes around? Not to insult a young man for being poor? Hahahahahaha…” Du Ruhai threw his head back in laughter. “Wake up! If it he wasn’t such a lucky bastard, Jiang Feng, you’d be holding a funeral for your son and not trying to curry favor with me!”  

He flung his sleeves in a grand flourish and walked proudly towards the outside.  

“Hold!” Jiang Chen had been standing beside his father and suddenly spoke. “Du Ruhai is it? If I remember correct, my father sent you 600,000 silver last time on my behalf. You no longer concern yourself with my matters, yet do you intend to pretend ignorance of the money?”  

Du Ruhai’s body abruptly halted as a vicious glare shot out from his eyes. He stared fixedly at Jiang Chen, his glare so savage that it sought to swallow Jiang Chen whole.  

But what he hadn’t anticipated was that when his vicious gaze swept over Jiang Chen’s calm and placid eyes, his entire body shuddered involuntarily, as if he had suddenly fallen into an ice cold hell.  

“What the hell? That kid’s gaze…”  

Du Ruhai calmed himself down and told himself earnestly that that had been an illusion.  

“600,000 silver? Go look for it in the official treasury! Bribing an official is another severe crime. Do you think I am such a corrupt individual? I have long since turned over the silver you offered to the official treasury!”  

There was no way that Jiang Chen believed such tripe. How could someone possibly have spat a choice piece of meat that had made its way to their mouth? This Du Ruhai in no way resembled an honest person with integrity.  

It would seem that Long Juxue and the other heirs had already started covertly moving against him because he hadn’t handed over the Dragonbone Sun Grass!  

If it was the old Jiang Chen, offending several noble sons and Long Juxue, as well as the organizer of the Hidden Dragon Trials carrying a grudge against him would definitely spell his doom.  

However, what did Jiang Chen fear now? All of these people added together were no more than bothersome flies in his eyes.  

Given just a bit of time, he would be able to smack them to death many times over.  

A few hints of an icy smile tugging at his lips, he looked at the swaggering Du Ruhai and raised his voice. “Du Ruhai, to seek gain and avoid losses is part of human nature. It’s no big thing to be afraid of those influential dukes. But to bully the kind and fear the evil, and insult my Jiang family -- you will know what a grave mistake that was before too long.”  

If Du Ruhai had politely and respectfully declined Jiang Feng without a mutual loss of face, then Jiang Chen would have fully understood.  

But Du Ruhai had long since accepted the money and suddenly come by today to renege on his promises. Fine, renege then, but return the money.  

If you wanted to still keep the money, at least display a better attitude?  

To take such a hard line and be so cocky? Was he already viewing the Jiang family as a pile of bones in a grave, a flower to wilt on the morrow?  

That kind of attitude successfully enraged Jiang Chen.  

“Ai, Chen’er. This Du Ruhai is not someone to irritate. He’s ranked number two out of all the organizers of the Hidden Dragon Trials.” Jiang Feng sighed lightly. “And, your father has heard that the one who ranks number one doesn’t ask many questions. He has delegated a lot of power and basically allows Du Ruhai to do as he wishes. He listens to periodic report from Du Ruhai; therefore, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that he’s the main person in charge.”  

As a duke, Jiang Feng was brave and heroic. But in terms of strategy and planning or power struggles, he didn’t amount to much.  

Jiang Chen didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. He hadn’t had enough time to understand the situation since he’d reincarnated. Could it be that the mess left behind by the previous Jiang Chen was bad enough that money couldn’t resolve things?  

“Ai, Chen’er. Don’t be depressed. I will continue thinking and see if there’s another path we can walk. Not to mention…”  

There was a saying that a loving mother led to a failure of a son. But with Jiang Feng as a father, Jiang Chen gained a new understanding that a loving father could also lead to a failure of a son.  

However, Jiang Chen was still touched. The duke of Jiang Han truly did love his son. The situation was so dire that a burning flame had made its way to their butts, but he still did not speak any harsh words.  

“Right, father. What are my grades like for the Hidden Dragon Trials? Did Du Ruhai mention them at all?”  

Jiang Feng’s expression was a bit awkward as he stammered, “Well… this…”  

Jiang Chen was seriously speechless. His father was still trying to preserve his feelings even now?  

“Father, I have a thick face, I can take it. How bad is it? You can tell me directly.”  

Jiang Feng was also worried that his son wouldn’t be able to accept it in the face of just surviving such a disaster. He “heh”ed in laughter upon seeing that his son was mentally prepared. “You darn kid are a special one alright, asking your old man for your own grades? Are you sure you won’t be shocked by my response?”  

“Tell me, surely I can’t be last?”  

“Can there be any doubt that you’re last?” Jiang Feng smiled wryly. “The problem in front of us is that you haven’t passed a single one of the three foundational exams. The final tests of the second half of the year will be held at the end of this month. If you don’t pass the three foundational exams, you won’t even have the qualification to sit for the final tests in the Hidden Dragon Trials.”  

The first two and a half years of the Hidden Dragon Trials were a period of learning and growth. A qualification examination was held at the end of this time.  

If a candidate couldn’t even pass the qualification exam, then he would not even have the right to participate in the final Trials.  

Jiang Chen finally understood why his old man would humble himself. Why a proud and regal duke would be lectured like a kid by Du Ruhai.  

Upon seeing Jiang Chen lower his head without a word, Jiang Feng smiled even more wryly. “Darn kid, don’t tell you don’t even remember what the three foundational exams are?”  

Jiang Chen rubbed his nose and said, “Alright, I’ll go back and think hard about them.”  

If it was any one of the other dukes, a stinging slap across the face would have been a given after hearing such passive words from his son.  

Jiang Feng was a unique one amongst fathers, he only sighed lightly. “Son, looks like your destiny is one of going back to the fields with your old man. Ai whatever. A life of fortune and riches is not written in the stars for the Jiang family. We might as well take off our armor and return to the fields with your generation. Too much nonsense occurs in politics, going back to a simpler life may not be a bad thing.”  

“Wait a second. Old father, when did I say that I wanted to go back a rural life and work the fields?”  

Jiang Feng was dumbfounded. “But the three foundational exams…”  

“So they’re three exams! When I have time, I can pass eight, or even ten of them.”  

“Darn kid, will you die if you don’t boast once a day? If nothing else, take the first foundation for example, it’s also the most basic requirement. Your true qi must be within the intermediate realm of true qi, at least four meridians true qi. Do you have that?”  

“Four meridians true qi? The foundational exams ask for such a simple thing?” It was Jiang Chen’s turn to be gobsmacked and he minutely raised his arm. “Father, look at the stone stool over there.”  

His true qi circulated throughout his body as he spoke, flowing through his four meridians like four thundering rivers. They coalesced into one and concentrated at the tip of his finger.  

He shook his finger, looking out of the corner of his eye..  

A hole was poked straight through the stone stool where his finger had been pointing.  

“A line formed of true qi, coalescing without dispersing. This is truly the intermediate realm of true qi? You kid, when did you locate the fourth acupoint, clear the fourth meridian, and successfully train to four meridians true qi?”  

Jiang Feng was overjoyed beyond belief with a face full of incredulity. Four meridians true qi was a quite basic achievement for any son of a duke. Clearing the fourth meridian was something not even worth being happy about.  

But to Jiang Feng, it was a moment on par with witnessing a miracle with his own eyes.  

“Heh heh. I did this yesterday. I just meditated for a few hours. Right, Father, what are the other two foundational exams? Can you tell me all at once, and I’ll go back and think of ways to handle them? We can’t let vile characters like Du Ruhai make a mockery out of us, can we?”  

Jiang Feng was speechless. Since when had the foundational exams become so easy in this kid’s eyes? He could handle them by sparing just a random bit of time?  

“What’s wrong? Can that old fart Du Ruhai make life difficult for me even after I’ve passed the foundational exams?”  

“No way!” Jiang Feng puffed his chest out and said assertively. “Your old man isn’t a vegetarian who just rolls over to play dead. As long as you can pass the foundational exams and make it to the final tests of the Hidden Dragon Trials, I can assure you there will be no problems there. But as for the content of the final tests… if Du Ruhai has something hidden up his sleeves…”  

“Vile characters are as common as ghosts. I, Jiang Chen, am an outstanding individual and do not fear these characters. The only thing I’m afraid of is that his abilities are not up to par and won’t be able to create some complicated mess for me. That would greatly disappoint me then.”  

At the end of the day, Jiang Chen paid no heed to third rate clowns like Du Ruhai.  

The three foundational exams really weren’t hard. Their purpose wasn’t to stump test takers, but to weed out the good-for-nothings.  

Unless one was a dandy that expended absolutely no effort on training, it was truly not a problem to pass the foundational exams.  

Apart from Jiang Chen, all participants in the Trials had achieved four meridians true qi. Even fatty Xuan had achieved five meridians true qi.  

The second exam was to practice the kingdom’s “Eastern Amethyst Qi” method until one reached the perfection level, and be able to successfully maintain it for an hour in a room filled with level four fighting aura.  

The Eastern Amethyst Qi method was created by an ancestor of the Eastern royal family. It was a method used in the process of founding the kingdom, and thus highly symbolic. It was further divided into five achievement levels of ‘minor achievement’, ‘skillful’, ‘perfection’, ‘flawless’ and ‘great perfection’ realms.  

The so called perfection realm was to merely learn the entire set of foundational tactics and know them thoroughly.  

The third foundational exam was a theoretical exam. It’s purpose was to test the academic knowledge of each duchy’s heirs. This exam was even easier, one could basically pass it by rote memorization.  

“What the heck! The past me dragged his heels for two and a half years on such easy exams, and still couldn’t pass them?”  

Jiang Chen was a bit lost in wonder. What was even more eye popping was his old man. When faced with such a son, had he never thought of harshly slapping him?  

His agreement with Eastern Lu was for three days, and only two days had passed. In the remaining day, Jiang Chen decided to spend some time and effort on the foundational exams.  

A mere dukedom was nothing to Jiang Chen, but it seemed that a subtle general situation had developed in the capital, and he had no desire to lose any advantage.  

Particularly when some bored fellows were waiting to see a fool made out of the Jiang family.  

As for those idiots that came up to him asking to be slapped, he could vent a bit of his frustrations by obliging them, no?  

Amethyst Eastern Qi was a complex set of tactics. Duchy heirs only learned the most basic parts of this method.  

The purpose of mandating that all heirs learn the basic tactics were to evaluate their potential, personality, understanding of martial dao, and the ability to endure suffering in the path of training.  

Jiang Chen sat cross legged and meditated for a moment, running through the foundational portions of the Eastern Amethyst Qi.  

At that moment, the vastly knowledgeable memories of his past self were starting to show their true worth.