Chapter 208: Qin Hongye’s Special Recipe
Yun Zhonghe got attacked by a demon cultivator, and this incident was handled personally by Sect Master Qin. She made a decisive decision to temporarily suppress the matter, weaving a carefully crafted story. This event was portrayed as a small-scale security drill that was swiftly controlled, thus calming everyone’s nerves, both inside and outside the sect, to prevent unnecessary panic and rumors.
After all, as one of the ten immortal sects in the cultivation world and the first on the Eastern Continent, the reputation and safety of the Xuantian Sect were invaluable. Once word got out about a demon cultivator infiltrating and launching an attack, it could cause immeasurable damage to the sect’s reputation, potentially leading to outside skepticism.
Only a few people knew the true nature of the events.
Thanks to the spacious living conditions in the sect’s living area, Yun Zhonghe’s residence was far from other disciples, reducing the risk of the incident becoming known to more people.
Even those living next door to Yun Zhonghe weren’t aware of the full story, only knowing a little of what happened.
For those who accidentally found out some insider information, the Sect Master visited them personally, using sect rules and personal prospects to issue stern warnings and reminders, ensuring they didn’t dare spill a word.
In summary, the incident was put to rest for now.
However, Yun Zhonghe was still feeling uneasy.
“The demon cultivator said that if I wasn’t killed, ‘that person’ would be distressed. It’s clear someone else was behind her actions.”
“The puppet only had Foundation Establishment level cultivation, but it could unleash strength like an Inner Core cultivator. That means the demon cultivator behind the puppet must be even stronger!”
“Inner Core? Or Divine Transformation?”
“There’s already something going on in the shadows completely different from the original plot. In my opinion, it seems to be after Mu Jixue, since she is protected by Master Youyue. They chose the easiest target first to reduce Mu Jixue’s team, which means me…”
Yun Zhonghe furrowed his brows deeply, analyzing layer by layer. His intuition told him that the true target might not even be himself, but Mu Jixue.
After all, was there anything worth those powerful figures clashing over such a mere “yellow-haired” guy?
Was it for his tiny family fortune or some sinister intentions towards his flesh and bones?
That’s utterly absurd.
Yun Zhonghe shrugged, finding that idea absurd.
He realized he needed to pay extra attention to the safety of the main characters.
By the way, this time he owed Mu Jixue big time for responding quickly and fetching the great savior, Master Youyue. Otherwise, the demon cultivator wouldn’t have backed off so easily.
This meant what? It meant Huang Aotian had genuine feelings for him! For this awesome brother!
Having such a faithful friend, Yun Zhonghe naturally placed Mu Jixue at heart.
To show his concern, Yun Zhonghe reminded Mu Jixue about her safety.
The response he got was a look of disbelief and a barrage of criticism.
“You almost died back there—be more careful about yourself! Stop worrying about me, for crying out loud!”
“You stupid, stupid, stupid moron! I’m fed up with you!”
“Don’t worry about me anymore, okay?!”
She shouted, her usually calm eyes widening like saucers, reminiscent of when they were back in Cangzhou City.
Yet… something seemed different too.
Yun Zhonghe stood there, stunned; he never expected Mu Jixue would scold him so. But the scolding felt oddly comforting, not at all unpleasant. The sweet voice, like a melodious soprano, made him almost beg for more.
Of course, this joke couldn’t go any further; otherwise, friendship could become impossible.
So, Yun Zhonghe scratched his head and sincerely apologized: “I’m sorry. I’ll be careful, thank you for reminding me.”
Yun Zhonghe cheerfully accepted the criticism with grace.
Mu Jixue said, “Remember this! *sniff* *sniff!*”
Her face turned a bit red, and she flicked her silver hair in an arrogant manner.
That cute profile, those mixed feelings of shyness and arrogance, suddenly made Yun Zhonghe’s heart flutter.
Honestly, ever since leaving Cangzhou City, Mu Jixue had become much cuter. Sometimes, looking at him made Yun Zhonghe feel uneasy.
Wait, what was he thinking? She’s Huang Aotian, and he’s just “yellow-haired.”
Probably due to the taste of meat on Xue Yunjian, the yellow-haired guy’s true self was starting to awaken, wanting to transform into a walking cannon.
Nope, this shouldn’t be happening!
Yun Zhonghe sighed helplessly; he had no choice, being the subordinate…
…
When Yun Zhonghe was attacked, the Xuantian Sect immediately classified this incident as the highest-level urgent matter. The Law Enforcement Hall and the Elders’ Chamber acted promptly, dispatching elite disciples and senior elders to form a special task force. They conducted a comprehensive investigation without leaving any blind spots.
This was not just an assault on Yun Zhonghe; it was a challenge to the Xuantian Sect’s dignity and safety. Swiftly uncovering the truth and punishing the culprit was essential to prevent future incidents.
This news spread very quickly to Yun Zhongtian.
With his only son nearly killed, no one knows if Yun Zhongtian was furious, but they knew that where he was, a storm raged, clouds gathered, and thunder rolled.
This strong emotional fluctuation somehow unlocked hidden potential within Yun Zhongtian, breaking through a long-standing cultivation bottleneck and advancing to the Inner Core stage, becoming yet another formidable figure in the cultivation world.
Three days later, Yun Zhongtian personally visited the Xuantian Sect!
But everyone in the sect understood; Yun Zhongtian didn’t come to blame anyone. The bond between Yun Zhongtian and Qin Wushuang would render any accusations useless.
Moreover, Yun Zhongtian left the Xuantian Sect in high spirits after stabilizing his newly attained Inner Core state and appearing relaxed and satisfied.
No one knew what transaction they struck.
…
Yun Zhonghe didn’t know his dad had been to the Xuantian Sect and had a deep conversation with its master, Qin Wushuang.
That day, Qin Hongye personally sought out Yun Zhonghe, offered her sympathies, and announced she’d take him to see Sect Master Qin.
Yun Zhonghe quickly prepared himself and followed Qin Hongye on their journey to the Master’s Pavilion.
They rode the sword together, moving swiftly, flying past the Outer Gate straight toward the Master’s peak, Xuantian Peak, heading for the Master’s Pavilion.
At that moment, Qin Wushuang had just bid farewell to Yun Zhongtian. There was still a hint of old friendship’s joy and ease lingering in his expression.
After tidying himself up, he prepared to receive Yun Zhonghe.
“Reporting to the Sect Master,” Yun Zhonghe respectfully bowed upon entering the chamber.
“No need for formalities, nephew. We can be casual here. Family doesn’t need such rituals. Red Leaf, make tea, bring some snacks.”
Qin Wushuang said cheerfully.
Qin Hongye usually wouldn’t do servant work in the sect, but Yun Zhonghe was different.
She cheerfully obliged, running down to fetch the tea and snacks.
Qin Wushuang gave Yun Zhonghe a kind smile: “My daughter usually grumbles at me if I ask for a cup of tea. Today, she’s being so proactive, fetching them herself. Hahahaha…”
Yun Zhonghe heard the deeper meaning behind Qin Wushuang’s words and felt slightly amused as he smiled wryly.
Nonetheless, he and Qin Hongye were just regular friends; she liked Mu Jixue. So, any hints wouldn’t change anything.
“Sit down, relax, consider this home,” Qin Wushuang invited Yun Zhonghe warmly, his tone filled with paternal care.
Yun Zhonghe sat obediently.
Soon, Qin Hongye entered the room carrying a tray of exquisite snacks and a steaming pot of tea. The aroma of tea blended with that of the snacks, filling the entire room.
Qin Hongye placed the tea and snacks neatly on the table, her face showing anticipation and pride. Her bright eyes fixed intently on Yun Zhonghe, waiting for his verdict.
Yun Zhonghe picked up a piece of snowflake pastry and took a bite; instantly, he was captivated by its crispy and sweet yet not overly sugary texture. He couldn’t help but praise, “Delicious! This is better than most fancy tea houses! Where did you buy it?”
“I made it myself!” Qin Hongye beamed, her eyes sparkling with satisfaction. “If you like, you can come often, I’ll make some for you.”
Yun Zhonghe couldn’t help but view Qin Hongye anew.
Indeed, Qin Hongye had exceptional skills. The tea he had tasted back on the spirit boat was also impressive, though he was too exhausted then to fully appreciate it, but the memory lingered vividly, making him feel comfortable.
Unexpectedly, Qin Hongye had such extraordinary talents hidden under her seemingly carefree and hurried exterior. Her pastries were truly delicious.
Qin Hongye continued while observing Yun Zhonghe: “If you come, let me know in advance; I’ll prepare a special recipe for you. You’ll love it.”
Special recipe?
This piqued Yun Zhonghe’s curiosity; if the current pastries were already great, what more surprising could the “special version” be?
Just as she shared these words, Qin Hongye felt a surge of excitement.
These days, she had acquired many “good things,” all for Yun Zhonghe. When they first arrived at the Xuantian Mansion, she claimed pressing business was an excuse to collect these items.
These were obtained from the black market with limited timeframes.
Unfortunately, owing to her meddling father, she had to put away those “good things.” She couldn’t wait to share them with Yun Zhonghe.
Just thinking about it made Qin Hongye squirm with excitement.
Her body tingled with anticipation.
Yun Zhonghe suddenly shivered.
“I remember, I’ve got something to cook, I’ll take care of that. Chat slowly.”
Without another word, Qin Hongye dashed off, terrified of losing composure.
Yun Zhonghe stared blankly after her, unsure what to make of it.
There was something off with Qin Hongye…
Probably just his imagination.
