Li Banfeng requested the Wine Gourd to survey the surroundings, recognizing the necessity of a thorough cleanup of Green Flower’s remnants to prevent any potential plague outbreaks.
Cui Tiq caught up to Li Banfeng, whispering, "No need for concern regarding that. The Grandmaster’s flesh and blood are invaluable, and I’ll certainly not let them go to waste. However, I do require your assistance with something else."
"State your request," Li Banfeng replied.
Cui Tiq elaborated, "The destination I most desire for the Grandmaster is Knife Ghost Ridge. We are in agreement about its location, correct?"
Li Banfeng affirmed with a nod.
Cui Tiq’s eyes gleamed with barely suppressed excitement; in truth, he made no effort to conceal it. "From what I've observed in Puluo State, Knife Ghost Ridge stands out as the most mystical locale, and the Knife Labor Ghosts are the most extraordinary beings. Even back at Sage Peak, numerous cultivators far surpassing those who tread the clouds were driven back by the Knife Labor Ghosts.
Yet, I refuse to believe that the Knife Labor Ghosts possess the power to definitively slay my Grandmaster. The Grandmaster's own strength has astonished me, and I am immensely curious to witness the marvels my Grandmaster will conjure alongside the Knife Labor Ghosts, particularly with our combined efforts after we've successfully refined them..."
Li Banfeng’s gaze turned sharp and cold as he looked at Cui Tiq. "This endeavor is your undertaking; it has no bearing on me!"
Cui Tiq chuckled. "There's no need for such formalities; I am not one to covet achievements. My primary wish is for you to do me a favor. I am incredibly eager to witness the Grandmaster’s miracle at Knife Ghost Ridge. However, Knife Ghost Ridge is a considerable distance away, requiring passage across the boundaries of Outside Provinces and Puluo State, making it not easily accessible."
Li Banfeng inquired, "You desire a ride from me?"
Cui Tiq nodded. "Precisely what I mean."
"Not at this moment. I require some time to recuperate..." Li Banfeng shuddered.
Cui Tiq sniffed the air, detecting the scent of a high fever. "The Grandmaster's actions were incredibly ruthless. When you employed Thousand Mile In A Step, he must have implanted a hidden ailment within you."
This consequence was anticipated by Li Banfeng; after his clash with Green Flower, it was logical to expect lingering afflictions.
Cui Tiq stated, "I can assist you in addressing this."
Li Banfeng responded, "On the condition that I can transport you to Knife Ghost Ridge, is that correct?"
Cui Tiq laughed. "Do not underestimate the bond of our friendship. Regardless of whether you agree to take me to Knife Ghost Ridge, I am willing to help you.
This time, the Grandmaster's residual ailment is deeply entrenched and presents a formidable challenge. Now, please clear your mind and maintain a tranquil state. I shall endeavor to help you expel this ailment."
Clear his mind of distractions?
Li Banfeng pondered for a moment before asking, "Is the patient’s state of mind crucial during the process of ailment removal?"
"Not especially," Cui Tiq replied, shaking his head. "I merely ask that you maintain a calm demeanor, just in case I falter, I hope you won't strike me."
Li Banfeng focused his mind, achieving a state of calm, and permitted Cui Tiq to commence the treatment.
Cui Tiq stood utterly motionless before Li Banfeng, his gaze slowly traversing Li Banfeng’s body.
Li Banfeng initially experienced a sensation of coldness, which soon gave way to heat.
Once Li Banfeng’s body temperature normalized, Cui Tiq exhaled a long breath. "The Grandmaster's residual ailment was quite palatable and flavorful. You may now rest assured; I have consumed all of it."
Li Banfeng expressed his profound gratitude. "Tomorrow, at this precise time, await me at the Qingzhou Road Garden Community in Baiyuan District. I shall then escort you to Knife Ghost Ridge."
It would be beneficial for Cui Tiq to be aware as well. Should Green Flower manage to escape once more, Cui Tiq could at least notify Li Banfeng.
As Li Banfeng departed from Sui Chen Road, Cui Tiq approached He Jiaqing.
He Jiaqing was on the precipice of death. After a moment of contemplation, Cui Tiq made his decision. "Regardless of the outcome, the collaboration between the three of us has ultimately yielded the desired results, and I have witnessed the outcome I sought. Therefore, I shall honor my promise and assist you in eradicating this ailment."
Approximately half an hour later, He Jiaqing regained consciousness, and the acrid stench of pus and blood emanating from his breath finally dissipated.
He was exceedingly frail, unable to sit up despite multiple attempts.
Cui Tiq glanced at his pocket watch. "I must depart now. I also advise you to leave this place promptly, as agents from the Dark Star Bureau will arrive shortly."
He Jiaqing nodded his thanks. "Thank you, friend."
Cui Tiq shook his head. "Do not be so hasty to call me friend; we are not yet that close."
He Jiaqing considered this for a moment. "I was the one who brought you back from Sage Peak. We share a bond forged in the crucible of life and death."
Cui Tiq recollected, "You were the one who saved me because of that Contract Book, though the outcome was ultimately meaningless, I still acknowledge the intention."
Cui Tiq departed, yet in that very moment, his thoughts and He Jiaqing's were consumed by a singular question.
What became of the Greenwater Beggar’s Contract Book?
...
Chuuni lingered outside the designated area, straining to hear the silence that had descended upon the depths of Sui Chen Road. His anxiety amplified compared to before, as Chief Li had still not emerged.
Dumpling inquired by his side, "Has the conflict concluded?"
Light Bulb offered uncertainly, "It should have, shouldn't it?"
Chuuni took a step past the boundary, declaring, "I must go and investigate."
Light Bulb apprehended Chuuni, urging, "Hold on, wait a bit longer!"
Chuuni shrugged off Light Bulb's grasp, exclaiming, "I have no idea what's happening with the bureau! They assured us of support, yet not a single soul has arrived, not even a drone has been deployed. Something is profoundly amiss with this entire operation!"
As they pressed onward into Sui Chen Road, they observed distinct scorch marks alongside scattered fragments of broken bricks and debris.
This location was already a ruin, and following the intense confrontation, few discernible traces remained.
"Where could Chief Li have gone?" Chuuni's worry escalated.
Light Bulb scoured the vicinity for an extended period but found absolutely no sign of Li Qi.
Dumpling suggested, "Let's return and wait outside the perimeter. Seventh Master will surely not be in any peril."
...
Li Banfeng reclined on the bed within the Portable Residence, his wife diligently attending to his wounds.
Gloves paced restlessly back and forth inside the Portable Residence. Li Banfeng addressed the Phonograph, "Wife, would you mind checking if Gloves has sustained any injuries?"