Online: I Can See Health Bars Chapter 1350 - 602: Go Ahead, Go Ahead (2)

"Since Young Master Diao favors it, we'll present it to him first. Once our Rebel Army achieves its grand objective, there shall be as many Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling as Young Master Diao desires."

Such a declaration! Truly bold!

Fang Yu had already experienced the might of the Dragon Soul Seal; it certainly wasn't something a mere Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling could contend with.

From Qiu Xiaoping's words, it appeared this particular item was exceptional among its kind, a Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling unlike others.

What a find!

Fang Yu marveled once more, clutching the item securely.

Now that it was in his possession, there was no question of handing it over to anyone else.

"Lord Qiu, your word is as good as gold. I am highly pleased with this item."

"As long as Young Master Diao is content. Following this, I shall procure an additional three to five Talismans of Malevolence Dispelling from our stores for Young Master Diao. I cannot provide too many, as the Rebel Army's resources are not solely under my command, and the army must maintain a reserve for unforeseen circumstances."

Qiu Xiaoping conveyed this with a subtle hint of apology in her gaze directed at Fang Yu.

There were still three to five more Talismans of Malevolence Dispelling to be given?

Fang Yu's heart soared with delight.

This Rebel Army is far more affluent than I had anticipated!

Who needs apologies when we'll soon be one big family!

"Lord Qiu, your consideration is truly touching!"

The more Fang Yu looked at Qiu Xiaoping, the more he found him agreeable.

Furthermore, Qiu Xiaoping's swift return this morning, after departing last night and bringing the Dragon Soul Seal, demonstrated an unparalleled level of sincerity.

It felt incredibly reassuring to have such a powerful ally to rely on.

In future conflicts, there would be no need for hesitation. He could eliminate any foe at will, without any concern for obstructing Evil Qi!

Yet, reflecting on the fate of the Soul Clothes, it was inevitable that Talismans of Malevolence Dispelling would eventually become tainted with Evil Qi. Therefore, conserving them would be wise.

"Additionally, concerning the intelligence on demons that Young Master Diao seeks, and related to matters of the Jiuyao Organization, I'm afraid that before we can disclose such information, Young Master Diao and Mrs. Diao will need to formally meet our President and officially enlist in the Rebel Army."

Observing Fang Yu's evident satisfaction with the Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling, Qiu Xiaoping seized the moment to present the terms.

Fang Yu was quite accustomed to this negotiating tactic.

Was this not simply a case of the Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling serving as an initial payment, with the full agreement contingent upon official joining?

Given his decision to join the Rebel Army, it would be nonsensical not to meet its leader.

Fang Yu offered a slight nod, signaling his acceptance, which implicitly included Ding Hui's consent.

Thus far, the Rebel Army had consistently acted in good faith, showing no signs of potential betrayal.

Witnessing Fang Yu's agreement, Qiu Xiaoping visibly relaxed, letting out a deep sigh of relief.

"There's no better time than now. Would Young Master Diao care to accompany me to meet the Commander today?"

Fang Yu paused for a moment, then replied, "Allow me to confer with my wife. I shall then provide you with my answer."

"That sounds perfectly reasonable. I will await Young Master Diao's response here."

With that, Qiu Xiaoping smiled, found a seat, poured herself some tea, and watched Fang Yu depart the hall with a look of contentment.

Once Fang Yu was out of sight, she called out towards the entrance.

"Qin Er, Tu Guren, both of you, enter."

Qin Er entered the hall with her head bowed, a palpable sense of apprehension about her.

Tu Guren, having been admonished by Qin Er previously, had adopted a much more subdued demeanor.

The prior incident where he had offended Fang Yu and sought to become his disciple, though resolved, had served as a stark lesson. He now refrained from any further transgressions.

After all, his misstep had led to Qiu Xiaoping's departure without them last night, causing him to fear the Rebel Army had forsaken them. Recklessness was no longer an option.

Upon entering, the two remained motionless, bowing their heads and standing with lowered gazes, careful not to betray any emotion.

Qiu Xiaoping, after deliberately setting down her teacup, cast a discerning glance at them and inquired softly.

"Qin Er, what are your thoughts on Young Master Diao?"

This question utterly perplexed Qin Er.

An inexplicable, peculiar sensation washed over her, akin to a mother contemplating her daughter's marriage.

Swiftly dispelling these odd notions, Qin Er softly responded, "Lord Qiu, Young Master Diao possesses great accomplishments at a young age, is gentle and refined; he is truly worthy of admiration."

There was no harm in offering praise; it was expected.

Qiu Xiaoping appeared indifferent to Qin Er's specific compliments, as the question was merely an opening to a deeper discussion.

"It’s quite apparent that Qin Er holds considerable affection for Young Master Diao. Therefore, I shall arrange for you to serve as Young Master Diao’s personal maid, overseeing his daily requirements during your time with the Rebel Army. Would you give your consent to this arrangement?"

What?!

To become a maid under someone else’s service…

Despite finding herself in such a predicament, lacking any status or personal strength, Qin Er felt an innate reluctance towards the idea of being a servant or a maid.

The prevailing circumstances were far beyond her ability to influence; it was not a matter she could simply refuse based on personal desire.

When Minister Qiu issues directives, they are, in essence, pronouncements rather than proposals for discussion.

To secure the protection offered by the Rebel Army, they were compelled to acquiesce to the terms presented.

"Serving as Young Master Diao’s maid is a distinct honor for Qin Er. I am, of course, wholeheartedly willing. My only concern is for Young Master Diao’s well-being…"

"As for Young Master Diao’s concerns, I shall address them. Should he express dissatisfaction, we shall reconsider the arrangement."

Following a brief silence, Qiu Xiaoping's gaze settled upon Qin Er. "Qin Er, I observed your conduct last night, and you are indeed a perceptive individual. You must surely grasp the reasoning behind assigning you as Young Master Diao’s maid. Do not falter in my expectations, nor betray the implicit trust the Rebel Army has placed upon you."

"… Yes!"

Naturally, Qin Er comprehended the underlying strategy.

She was now, in effect, a representative of the Rebel Army.

Her role was to remain by Young Master Diao’s side; ostensibly to attend to him, but in reality, to observe his every move.

However, she mused, would this particular arrangement cause Young Master Diao some personal inconvenience?

She wondered if this strategy originated from Lord Qiu himself or from a higher authority within the organization…

No, considering Lord Qiu's evident deference towards Young Master Diao, it seemed unlikely to be his initiative. It was more probable that the directive came from a more elevated source…

"Tu Guren, effective immediately, you are officially a member of the Autumn Department."

"Ah?"

The man bearing the scars appeared visibly bewildered.

The esteemed Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter departments within the Rebel Army were not readily accessible. Entry required a gradual ascent through the ranks, culminating in a rigorous audit and qualification process before one could even aspire to join these select divisions.

Receiving a direct appointment was truly an unforeseen development.

At this juncture, Qiu Xiaoping continued, elaborating on the benefits. "By joining the Autumn Department, your diligent efforts could pave the way for acquiring valuable Martial Arts Techniques from the Rebel Army’s clandestine repository."

There was no necessity for Qiu Xiaoping to elaborate further.

Even the least astute individual would surely grasp the unspoken implications.

Upon this realization, the Scarred Man's face contorted into an expression of profound, ecstatic joy.

"Yes! I am deeply grateful for Lord Qiu’s magnanimous assistance! Tu Guren pledges his unwavering loyalty to Lord Qiu, to the Rebel Army, and is prepared to offer his entire being without hesitation!"

His primary aspiration was for Qin Er to acquire proficiency in martial arts.

Mastering martial arts did not exclusively necessitate the direct tutelage of a seasoned instructor. With a sufficiently advanced cultivation technique, self-study and rigorous training could yield remarkable results.

He harbored immense faith in Qin Er’s latent potential!

"Very well, the two of you may take your leave. Return and gather your belongings. Regardless of Young Master Diao’s ultimate decision, you will both accompany me back to the Rebel Army today."

"Yes!"

As the duo respectfully withdrew, Qiu Xiaoping languidly summoned Fa Hongwen.

Her personal regard for the Forest Snake Gang was notably diminished.

However, this did not preclude the strategic formation of alliances, which could subsequently serve to solidify their control over this faction under the Rebel Army’s banner.

It was a pragmatic approach; even the smallest contribution held value.

...

"Ding Hui!"

Fang Yu entered, finding Ding Hui engrossed in the meticulous arrangement of numerous jars filled with blood.

This was entirely characteristic of her; she was incapable of remaining idle once awake.

Fang Yu had long grown accustomed to this trait.

"What is it?"

Ding Hui did not immediately turn, but her cheerful demeanor was evident, almost to the point of a soft hum, as she carefully handled the vials of blood.

"Qiu Xiaoping has granted me the Talisman of Malevolence Dispelling. However, for the other promised provisions, we are required to meet with high-ranking officials of the Rebel Army to formally receive them."

"Is that so? Then you should proceed to meet them."

Only then did Ding Hui turn around, a smile gracing her lips as she addressed Fang Yu.

"Rest assured, the Rebel Army currently depends on your presence; they would not dare to act against you."

Fang Yu registered a flicker of surprise.

"You are not accompanying me?"

"There is no need for me to do so. I can await your report back at the Forest Snake Gang headquarters. Furthermore, Master Quan Heng resides nearby; there is no need for you to concern yourself with my safety."

This statement held undeniable truth.

Since the arrival of Monk Quan Heng, an palpable sense of security had permeated the surroundings, alleviating concerns for Ding Hui’s well-being.

After a moment’s consideration, Fang Yu nodded her assent.

"Very well, I shall proceed to the Rebel Army. Please refrain from venturing far within the Forest Snake Gang premises. Wherever you may go, ensure Master Quan Heng is informed…"

"Understood, understood! Cease your worrying! Where could I possibly go? There is a substantial amount of work requiring my attention right here."

With a cheerful wave, Ding Hui's upbeat mood left Fang Yu feeling a tad bewildered.

"So... I should be going then?"

"Off you go, be quick about it!"