Chapter 1298 - 1294
As Chi Yao was thinking this, the Dragon Spirit suddenly appeared before him after leaving earlier with a flash.
"Hey, I was wondering who was lurking around and staring, not coming out even if they die, turns out it’s you!"
If he hadn’t sensed that faint, negligible aura without any malice, and couldn’t pinpoint the specific location, the Dragon Spirit would have taken action earlier.
He left just now to lure this person out; the Dragon Spirit also wanted to see who this hidden figure was.
Chi Yao’s expression froze on his face, but then he smiled casually. Someone trusted by Yun Ran wouldn’t be an ordinary person.
"I just noticed someone causing trouble and originally wanted to see if I could help, but seeing you handle it so easily, I concealed myself."
Although it sounded like an excuse, the Dragon Spirit loved to hear it, as it implied he was impressive and capable.
The Dragon Spirit nodded, "If it’s you, then it’s no big deal. I’ll head back, do as you please."
After speaking, the Dragon Spirit turned and left for real this time, knowing that in necessity he could go without food or sleep.
But now, it wasn’t necessary; he preferred the human mode of survival—eating when hungry, sleeping when tired.
With the Dragon Spirit’s words, Chi Yao felt his presence was accepted, no need to hide anymore.
Ma San’s execution was very efficient; after the Dragon Spirit spoke, he quickly gathered the few at the stronghold eager to join and decided on the ticketing matter in no time.
Chi Yao watched this unfold, suddenly chuckling.
This world proves closeness breeds influence; those close to Yun Ran also love money.
As for those trapped, dumped in the pond as decor, they can only blame themselves.
The stronghold has never been so lively since it was built.
The Little Paperman hid under Yun Ran’s courtyard eaves, the view excellent for seeing most events in the stronghold.
At the moment, seeing waves of people coming in, it wished it could rush out to see and be the one collecting money if not for having tasks.
When Chi Yao appeared near Yun Ran’s courtyard, no one noticed.
"Did your master leave?"
The Little Paperman, engrossed in the crowd, heard a familiar voice, nearly tumbling from the eaves.
Though it was just a Little Paperman and wouldn’t be hurt if it fell, it was mentally shocked.
"You, you, you... How did you show up here without making a sound!"
The Dragon Spirit’s cultivation was much higher than the Little Paperman’s; it was normal for Chi Yao to notice him, while the Little Paperman couldn’t.
Hearing the fright in the Little Paperman’s voice, Chi Yao’s eyes flashed with guilt.
"Sorry, I didn’t know I’d scare you. I just sensed Yun Ran’s aura in this courtyard and came to check.
But at the gate, I confirmed Yun Ran’s not here; the aura is your disguise."
Little Paperman: ...
It suddenly felt that some truths were also unpleasant, especially from formidable opponents it couldn’t defeat.
"The master is busy, I’m here as bait. Look at the pond over there; we’ve caught quite a few!"
If not for its effective baiting, there wouldn’t be so many falling into the trap.
Chi Yao nodded, "Hmm, you’re right."
He then looked at the formations around the courtyard, extremely solid. Only he could enter; others wouldn’t be able to.
It shows Yun Ran made full preparations before leaving.
The Heavenly Book Fragment opens different effects to different people.
At this moment, Chi Yao suddenly wondered what effect Yun Ran’s opening of the Heavenly Book Fragment would have for the future.
Seeing a wicker chair in the middle of the courtyard pavilion, Chi Yao walked over, sat down, and pulled out his tea cup.
With that demeanor, he seemed to claim the courtyard, enjoying the morning light’s bath.
Little Paperman: ...
It was the first time seeing someone more composed than the master, no wonder the master trusted him in the courtyard’s array.
The Little Paperman stopped watching Chi Yao and returned to observing ’visitors’.
It didn’t believe all these people were just those who loved the crowd; surely some wanted to stir up trouble, sneaking in for a chance.
And it loved watching troublemakers, confident as they entered, but dejected as they left.
Several figures appearing gossip-like but with light steps and aura of talisman paper immediately caught the Little Paperman’s attention.
It inclined its ear to listen to them speak.
Their voices were low, but what they said fell into the Little Paperman’s ears.
"Let’s spread out and investigate, find out which courtyard the one who bought the special item lives, and where the person who caught our people is?
I asked earlier; there are ten VIP seats in the observation area, for 100 taels we can closely approach those trapped.
Later, old ghost, pretend curiosity and contact Ying Yi, find out the state of this place’s Defensive Array.
The rest of you blend into the other crowds to gather more intel. That person dared to shame us; if we don’t peel and dismantle them, we can’t stay here!"
"Yes, Protector!"
Five or six received the order, quickly dispersing.
If not precisely targeting them from the start, as they dispersed among the real common people, some of their aura would indeed be concealed.
These plans, against average forces, would succeed; no wonder they’ve wiped out many families over the years.
But fate turned against them here.
They faced the master, Dragon King, and the place already infiltrated by Dark Hall people—they’re just unlucky.
Little Paperman could hardly wait to see their plan fail spectacularly; it would be exciting!