Turns Out, I’m In A Villain Clan! Chapter 545 The Mu Clan Raises the Stakes

With a subtle smile, the alchemist from the Vermillion Pill Empire spoke, as if every detail had been meticulously planned.

"Today marks a grand celebration for the emergence of a new Grandmaster."

His voice resonated clearly throughout the hall.

"If we were to omit anything related to the art of alchemy..."

A brief pause ensued.

"...wouldn't that be rather unfortunate?"

A few heads in the audience nodded in agreement.

Indeed, what could be more fitting for a celebration honoring a Grandmaster Alchemist than a display of alchemy itself?

He raised his hand, and a jade box materialized.

Upon its opening, a potent and profound medicinal fragrance instantly permeated the entire hall.

Eyes widened in astonishment.

"It's the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill!"

A shocked shout erupted from the crowd.

A wave of commotion swept through the assembled guests.

This was far from an ordinary Grade-7 pill.

It stood as one of the most coveted treasures for cultivators at the Great Ascension Realm.

Even those who had been practicing composure could no longer conceal the spark of avarice glinting in their eyes.

The alchemist observed their reactions with a placid demeanor.

Precisely as he had foreseen. He then continued.

"This shall be the reward for the victor!"

His words landed with significant weight.

Instantly, the atmosphere in the hall transformed.

Excitement!

Anticipation!

These sentiments began to surge.

"Naturally," he added smoothly, "this is merely to add some fervor to the celebration."

A faint smile remained on his lips.

"Any individual present is welcome to participate."

A moment of silence.

Then-

"However, to maintain a certain... decorum..."

His tone remained courteous.

"It would be most appropriate if only those under the age of fifty were to partake."

Another pause.

"And participation is limited to those who have attained at least Grade-3 in alchemy."

Murmurs rippled through the gathering.

Yet, rather than discontent, most attendees nodded in agreement.

It was a reasonable stipulation.

Without such restrictions, even alchemists of lower grades might attempt to join, leading to a chaotic and ultimately pointless event.

"It appears the Vermillion Pill Empire intends to make a grand gesture."

"To present the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill, they must possess considerable confidence."

"Well, they do have Huo Shenyu. It's a certainty they won't fret over the prize offered, as they fully expect to claim it themselves."

It was evident to all that the sole reason for offering such a valuable item—disproportionate for a minor competition—stemmed from immense self-assurance. Nevertheless, a sense of discouragement did not settle upon anyone. After all, even the exceptionally talented Huo Shenyu, perhaps the finest among those under fifty, was not infallible and could still err. Many considered this addition to the celebration a stroke of brilliance.

Even representatives from some of the other empires expressed keen interest.

After all, the prospect of acquiring a Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill was an exceedingly rare opportunity.

The representatives of the Vermillion Pill Empire appeared to have accomplished their objective.

This competition was not solely targeted at the Mu Clan, but at the entirety of the Desolate Heaven Empire.

Their intention was to demonstrate, before all present, that they, the Vermillion Pill Empire, remained the paramount force in alchemy and would continue to hold that esteemed position.

And Huo Shenyu was poised to ensure his dominance, suppressing every other young prodigy in attendance.

On the Mu Clan's side, a few Elders exchanged knowing glances.

They had already foreseen the possibility of such an occurrence, particularly if the Vermillion Pill Empire were to make an appearance.

The instant they spotted Huo Shenyu accompanied by other members of the Vermillion Pill Empire, they suspected such a maneuver was imminent.

Prior arrangements had already been determined for how they would address such a

circumstance.

They were confident that with Mu Linyue competing, a loss in a contest of the younger generation was out of the question.

However, the precarious aspect was that if Mu Linyue's exceptional talent were unveiled, she could become a target for others.

More specifically, the Vermillion Pill Empire would undoubtedly perceive a threat from her prodigious abilities.

One could only speculate on the lengths they might go to neutralize such a formidable rival.

Yet, conceding defeat was simply not an option, especially with so many influential figures observing.

Consideration was also given to Bai Zihan's participation, but he unequivocally refused.

Bai Zihan deemed it excessive bullying to compete with his Grade-8 proficiency.

As for why they weren't concerned about Bai Zihan becoming a target—well, he was already on numerous threat lists, and adding one more would hardly alter the situation.

His power was also immense, making him exceedingly difficult to eliminate, save for by experts of the Immortal Realm.

Furthermore, one would need to breach the Bai Clan's territory just to even

contemplate such an attempt.

Therefore, in light of all factors, Bai Zihan's participation would have been ideal.

Clearly, the repercussions of Bai Zihan winning would be less significant than Mu Linyue's victory, but it would also shield Mu Linyue from potential danger.

However, after considerable deliberation, the Elders and Mu Qingyuan resolved to consult Mu Linyue directly.

Ultimately, despite the inherent risks, it also presented a valuable opportunity for her to demonstrate her capabilities.

Upon hearing this, Mu Linyue readily agreed. It wasn't her way to conceal her abilities, and she relished the prospect of facing off against skilled rivals. She felt assured of protection from both the Mu and Bai Clans, her powerful allies, which eased any concerns about potential dangers. It was a sensible line of reasoning; the Bai Clan was virtually unmatched in the region, capable of rivaling even an empire. While a temporary, cautious approach of hiding her might seem viable, how long could her exceptional talent truly remain undiscovered? Thus, seizing this chance to showcase her prowess seemed the more prudent course of action.

Everything was proceeding as anticipated, though the revelation of the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill as a prize was unexpected. Several elders exchanged knowing glances, silently commending the Vermillion Pill Empire for offering such a remarkable reward.

Mu Qingyuan wasted no time. Sensing the palpable anticipation in the hall, he stepped forward with resolve. His gaze swept through the assembled guests, carrying an air of calm authority. "Since everyone expresses such keen interest..." his voice resonated clearly, "...let us proceed!"

A moment of silence ensued. Then, under the scrutinizing eyes of numerous attendees, Mu Qingyuan raised his hand. A jade box, as elegantly crafted as the previous one, materialized in his palm. Instantly, a subtle yet potent aura emanated from it, gradually intensifying and spreading like an silent wave throughout the hall. Many who were still caught up in the initial excitement froze, captivated by the burgeoning power.

A second wave of energy, even more potent, surged forth. He opened the box.

Inside, a pill rested serenely. Faint patterns of lightning flickered across its surface. Unlike the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill, however, its aura felt more settled, more refined—as if it had endured countless trials and achieved ultimate perfection.

A hushed silence descended, broken only by a trembling voice: "That... that is...?"

Mu Qingyuan stated calmly, "This is the Heavenly Ascension Tempering Pill. A Grade-7 pill possessing effects akin to the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill!"

Another Grade-7 pill. Not just any pill, but one with efficacy comparable to the Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill. The stakes had effectively doubled.

The already charged atmosphere escalated to an entirely new level. What was once excitement had now transformed into a fervent frenzy. Eyes blazed with unconcealed desire. Two Grade-7 pills! Both capable of aiding in the ascent to the Immortal Realm. Such a substantial prize was, even for the celebration of a Grandmaster Alchemist, remarkably generous.

"We shall contribute this as our prize as well." This was more than a mere matching of the Vermillion Pill Empire's offering; it was a bold declaration aimed at everyone present. The Mu Clan, too, possessed the capability to produce such potent pills. The Heavenly Ascension Tempering Pill, highly sought after, now had a comparable alternative from their own ranks. This was, in essence, a significant market move.

Across the hall, the demeanors of the Vermillion Pill Empire's representatives shifted. Huo Zhouchen's eyes narrowed subtly. Though silent, he grasped the true implication of this action far better than anyone else. The Heavenly Tribulation Tempering Pill represented their most significant advantage, their ultimate bargaining chip. Now, a formidable competitor had emerged, shattering any hope of a monopoly and precluding the possibility of exorbitant pricing. This single event was poised to send ripples across every empire.

Huo Zhouchen exhaled slowly, his expression regaining its composure. (So be it...) They had not anticipated the Mu Clan possessing a pill recipe comparable to the Heavenly Ascension Tempering Pill. However, there was little they could do now. Their focus had to remain on their primary mission. Besides, the situation offered a dual benefit: not only could they potentially humiliate the younger generation of alchemists, but they would also acquire a Grade-7 pill.

"Those who are qualified may come forward," Mu Qingyuan announced. At his signal, Mu Clan disciples sprang into action, relaying the orders. Servants and attendants moved with remarkable speed, clearing significant space within the hall and preparing numerous alchemy platforms. Cauldrons of varying quality were made available for those who had not brought their own. Simultaneously, containers brimming with common alchemical ingredients were placed within easy reach, ensuring no participant would face impediment due to a lack of materials. The astonishing efficiency of these arrangements underscored the Mu Clan's profound expertise in alchemy and their considerable wealth.

Meanwhile, a stir began to emanate from the crowd. One by one, figures started to advance. They were young, exuded confidence, and their eyes burned with ambition. Though the competition was an unexpected turn of events, many had thought to bring their most skilled alchemist, recognizing the significance of a Grandmaster Alchemist's celebration.

Each major clan and powerful sect had assembled their most gifted alchemy prodigies.

Some attended out of sheer admiration.

Mu Tianxuan, a figure who had shattered the formidable barrier that countless alchemists could only fantasize about overcoming.

He was revered as an idol by many, especially by those hailing from the Desolate Heaven Empire.

He represented an aspiration, a peak they yearned to reach.

Others arrived with a flicker of hope.

The faint possibility that—just maybe—

Their talents might capture his attention.

And if destiny smiled upon them, they might even earn a place as his personal disciple.

Now, a golden opportunity had arisen.

A chance to exhibit their skills not only to Mu Tianxuan but to the formidable powers of the entire region.

Furthermore, the allure of two Grade-7 pills as a prize was undeniably tempting. Naturally, no one would hold back their best efforts.

Before long, scores of young alchemists stood poised and ready.

These represented the cream of the younger generation. At this historic juncture, they had all converged in this single location.

Meanwhile, the Vermillion Pill Empire maintained an air of composed confidence.

Huo Shenyu advanced with measured steps.

His countenance had already reverted to its characteristic haughty demeanor.

Yet, he was not unaccompanied.

Alongside him stood another young alchemist, less conspicuous in comparison.

Though not possessing the widespread renown of Huo Shenyu, he too was a prodigy who had achieved Grade-4 mastery by the age of forty.

From the other empires, a select few figures also made their advance.

A total of five individuals.

Despite their smaller numbers, not a single one among them projected an aura of weakness.

They, too, were the foremost alchemists of their respective empires, brought to this event with intentions mirroring those of the others.

To behold a Grandmaster.

To seek fortuitous encounters.

Now, although not officially designated as such, this gathering had undeniably transformed into a grand competition—

A contest to discern the most exceptional young alchemy talent throughout the Eastern Region!