I'm modifying myself into the ultimate demon.

Chapter 106 Entering the Demon-Suppressing Family, Ghost Bone Fusion Technique!
Although Chen Mo knew that Shao Siming was always a man of few words, with a cold and serious personality, he still felt a lot of pressure being stared at by her like this.

But Chen Mo was not flustered.

The cheat ability altered the aura of the ghost bone, but Shao Siming couldn't detect it.

Given that Shao Siming had previously visited Fu Huo Zhuang, it's likely that Guo Ziyu has already provided an explanation, placing all the blame on Tang Qi.

"Young Master Ming, please come in for tea."

Shao Siming remained silent, gazing at Chen Mo for a long time. Seeing that Chen Mo remained calm and showed no sign of guilt, she nodded and followed Chen Mo into the living room.

After taking her seat at the head table, Shao Siming accepted the teacup offered by Chen Mo, but did not drink from it. Instead, she scanned her surroundings with her eyes and said after a long while, "Just now, I heard from Master Guo about what happened yesterday. I didn't expect Zhu Qingfeng to be a spy sent by the Li family, causing the entire village to suffer. Fortunately, you met Tang Qi from the neighboring county on the way, and luckily you escaped a disaster."

As she spoke, Shao Siming's sharp eyes remained fixed on Chen Mo's face, trying to discern something from his micro-expressions.

Chen Mo feigned lingering fear, shrank his neck, and said, "Last night's experience was truly like a nightmare."

Shao Siming took a sip of tea. "Tell me the details."

Chen Mo began to explain in detail.

He simply shifted his perspective to Guo Ziyu's, using Tang Qi to replace himself. Since Chen Mo wasn't always with Guo Ziyu, he only discussed a few key points.

For example, it was Tang Qi who killed Li Hanqiu in the backyard of the inn, and it was also Tang Qi who broke through the window to chase and kill Shen Yujun...

It was Tang Qi who snatched Shen Yujun's Guan Dao in the theater, and it was also Tang Qi who was besieged by the ghost babies...

After listening attentively, Shao Siming suddenly asked, "How did Zhu Qingfeng die?"

Chen Mo felt a chill run down his spine and deduced that Shao Siming had inspected the scene and made a preliminary judgment that Zhu Qingfeng had been killed by a sneak attack.

Fortunately, Guo Ziyu had spoken with Chen Mo beforehand, and Chen Mo had shifted the blame for everything she had done onto Tang Qi.

Moreover, ambushes and crushing attacks... will render the victim completely unable to react. No traces will be left at the scene.

Chen Mo calmly replied, "He was suddenly killed by Tang Qi."

After hearing this, Shao Siming didn't ask any more questions, but instead felt a sense of disappointment.

Just now, when Shao Siming left Qinghe Town and passed through Wuqiao Town, she saw Tang Qi dressed in blood-stained clothes, carrying a large Guan Dao (a type of halberd), asking the villagers about Qinghe Town. He also told the villagers not to go to Qinghe Town.

Tang Qi, as a scion of a powerful family behind the county government of Qingwu County, was naturally a well-known figure. Shao Siming knew him and had long heard of Tang Qi's connections with the Li family in Qinghe Town.

Furthermore, Guo Ziyu, Guo Songyang, and Chen Mo's statements were almost identical, fitting together seamlessly. All the details matched perfectly, with no flaws whatsoever.

It seems that Tang Qi really did it.

That makes sense... otherwise, it would be very unlikely that someone from Black Mountain Village could kill Shen Yujun.

The Guan Dao is on Tang Qi, and the Ghost Bone might also be on him.

After a moment of silence, Shao Siming finally spoke, "Zhu Qingfeng took advantage of this situation, using my orders to secretly lead you into Qinghe Town to search for someone, but he harbored the intention to harm you. He even caused trouble for the village. Fortunately, you were quick-witted and knew to send the workers from the two villages away in advance. That's how some workers survived."

Chen Mo remained humble: "Previously, Li Yuanlong and his two disciples suffered from the ghost infant. In addition, Liu Junxi and Liu Wu also died from the ghost infant. They left me a message, knowing that Zhu Qingfeng was behind it. I was on my way to the city to inform Shao Siming when Zhu Qingfeng urgently summoned us to Qinghe Town to find people. I couldn't get away to deliver the message, so I can only do my bit."

Shao Siming said, "You don't need to be so modest. I heard from Master Guo that you performed very bravely in Qinghe Town. You fought with Liu Wu in the council hall earlier, which shows you are a young talent."

After saying that, Shao Siming stood up. "This time the village has suffered a great calamity, but it is not good to let the village fall into ruin. Otherwise people will say that my Red Lantern Gang has no one left, which will damage the reputation of my Red Lantern Gang."

"We're desperately short-handed right now, so I've put Guo Songyang in the position of deputy head and Guo Ziyu in the position of incense master of Fu Huo Zhuang. Although you haven't been here long, you've performed exceptionally well. It's beneath you to be an incense master here; would you be interested in coming with me to the Red Lantern Temple to take a position?"

Chen Mo was startled and thought to himself: Guo Songyang was only a deputy hall master, which meant that the new chieftain was transferred from elsewhere by Shao Siming.

That was bad enough, but Shao Siming actually wanted to transfer her to work at the Red Lantern Temple.

This isn't a job appointment; it's practically putting yourself under her watchful eye.

Clearly, Shao Siming still harbored doubts about the destruction of the Li family residence in Qinghe Town, especially about herself.

Chen Mo naturally didn't want to go to the Red Lantern Temple.

He immediately stood up and cupped his hands, saying, "It would be a good thing to be able to serve at the Red Lantern Temple, but there are many experts there. I am not experienced enough, and I have not yet mastered the art of preserving the spirit. I would like to ask the Master of Fate to allow me to gain some experience outside."

Everyone in the Red Lantern Temple knew that Chen Mo had spent half a month learning skills from Shao Siming. Therefore, Chen Mo was considered one of Shao Siming's people.

This explanation is quite apt.

Shao Siming nodded slightly. "You're quite patient. Then stay here and hone your skills. The new chieftain is young and impetuous, so be tolerant of him and avoid conflicts."

Chen Mo wasn't sure if Shao Siming's words were genuinely out of concern for him, or if she had ulterior motives. He simply agreed. Then Shao Siming asked, "Has your internal martial arts skill improved recently?"

Chen Mo said, "The progress is acceptable; he has already reached the sixth level of martial arts master."

Shao Siming was slightly surprised and praised Chen Mo a few times. Then she carefully pointed out some details of the Mingyu Gong and the Hongdeng Cunning Shen Fa to Chen Mo.

Chen Mo listened attentively, and benefited greatly, especially when he heard about the Red Lantern Divine Preservation Method.

Although Guo Ziyu is a master from a family that suppresses demons, she primarily cultivates the Soul Burial Scripture. Her mastery and understanding of the Red Lantern Spirit Preservation Technique are far inferior to Shao Siming's.

After the instructions were finished, it was completely dark.

Chen Mo asked Li Qingniu to prepare dinner, saying that Shao Siming had a long journey and invited her to stay for dinner.

Although Chen Mo was very wary of this woman and knew that Shao Siming harbored suspicions about him, the more this was the case, the more Chen Mo felt that he couldn't avoid her. Instead, he should take the opportunity to learn more about Shao Siming.

Faced with Chen Mo's warm invitation, Shao Siming's suspicions about him lessened slightly. She thought that if Chen Mo had something to hide, he should be avoiding her, not taking the initiative to get close to her.

Dinner was eaten by Chen Mo and Shao Siming alone. Even Cao Kun, the old head of the Examination Hall, didn't dare to sit down and just waited at the door.

During the meal, Chen Mo noticed a detail:
When Shao Siming put the food into her mouth, she showed slight signs of nausea.

Although Chen Mo deliberately added chili peppers and heavy oil to the dish in order to cover up his discomfort from swallowing cooked food, and it was normal for Shao Siming to have this reaction, Chen Mo still felt that something was wrong.

After several dishes were served, Chen Mo spoke up, "I heard that the original intention of our Red Lantern Gang in establishing Black Mountain Stronghold was to keep an eye on the ghosts of Qinghe Town. Now that Tang Qi has wiped out all the ghosts in the Li residence, shouldn't the core of our stronghold be changed?"

Shao Siming put down her chopsticks and looked up, then fiddled with the hairpin in her hair. The two small golden bells at the end of the hairpin jingled and made a clear, pleasant sound.

"No need for that. Although the ghosts in the Li residence are gone, there are still ghosts in the Dayin Mountain. I have already ordered some road signs to be erected around Qinghe Town, designating Qinghe Town as a forbidden area. The Black Mountain Stronghold's next task is to guard against the ghosts from the Dayin Mountain escaping. The task on your shoulders has not only not lessened, but has become heavier."

Chen Mo was taken aback. "Forbidden area?"

Shao Siming hummed in agreement. "You got lost in the town earlier because Shen Yujun set up a maze. But it was just a maze; it's not a forbidden area. A real forbidden area is far more terrifying than a maze."

Chen Mo poured Shao Siming a cup of tea, saying, "Please tell me more, Shao Siming."

After this meal, and considering the past two weeks of getting to know each other, Chen Mo felt that Shao Siming was no longer such a stranger. Now that he had the opportunity, he naturally wanted to learn more about her.

Shao Siming said, "The so-called forbidden area... you can think of it as the lair of real ghosts. You'd better pray that you don't enter the forbidden area or encounter it. Otherwise, you won't survive. Only people from the Demon-Suppressing Families can survive in the forbidden area."

Chen Mo deliberately feigned surprise and fear, "Thank you for your guidance, Young Master Ming. By the way, I heard Zhu Qingfeng say... say..."

Chen Mo stopped mid-sentence, a look of unease on his face.

Shao Siming glared at Chen Mo. "What did he say?"

Chen Mo hesitated for a moment, then said, "Never mind, I'm afraid that if I say it, I'll anger Shao Siming."

Originally, Shao Siming didn't really care, but Chen Mo kept teasing her, so she became curious. "I'm not angry, just tell me."

Chen Mo then said, "That scoundrel Zhu Qingfeng said that our Red Lantern Goddess is a ghost."

As he said this, Chen Mo stared at Shao Siming's expression, anticipating her reaction.

I thought Shao Siming would be furious, scolding Zhu Qingfeng for talking nonsense, and even reprimanding Chen Mo.

However, the reality is quite different.

Shao Siming was taken aback for a moment before saying seriously, "Don't listen to others' nonsense. Our Red Lantern Goddess has received incense offerings from hundreds of thousands of villagers in Honghe County and protects this land. We have set up multiple temples, isn't that also to protect the peace and prosperity of this area? The Goddess is a deity who protects this area."

Chen Mo nodded in agreement and gave the deceased Zhu Qingfeng a severe scolding.

Seeing Chen Mo reprimanding Zhu Qingfeng with such seriousness, Shao Siming's lips twitched slightly, as if she were smiling, and she said, "It's good that you stay here. It's late, I have to go back."

Chen Mo personally escorted Shao Siming out of the manor and even lifted the carriage curtain to make it easier for her to get in. The entire ceremony was extremely courteous.

As Shao Siming boarded the carriage, she glanced at Chen Mo again and said, "When you have cultivated your Spirit Preservation Technique to the Inner Illumination level, come and inform me."

Having said that, Shao Siming got into the carriage and sped away with Cao Kun.

Chen Mo finally breathed a sigh of relief as he watched the carriage with red lanterns disappear into the night.

"They're finally gone, but I still feel like there's something strange about this Shao Siming, though I can't quite put my finger on it..."

Just then, Guo Ziyu walked over from a distance and asked calmly, "Has Shao Siming dispelled her doubts about you?"

Chen Mo recovered his composure and said, "They've mostly given up on it. But she invited me to work at the Red Lantern Temple, so I guess she hasn't completely let go of her suspicions yet."

Guo Ziyu said, "The Red Lantern Temple is an extremely dangerous place. If you go there, that would be truly dangerous."

Chen Mo agreed wholeheartedly, and then asked, "By the way, does Miss Ziyu know the identity and background of Shao Siming?"

Guo Ziyu shook her head. "Shao Siming is always mysterious and rarely shows herself. Although I came to the village a few years earlier than you, I have only seen Shao Siming a few times. Perhaps Tang Lao will know when we meet in a few days."

Does Mr. Tang know?
Upon hearing this, Chen Mo became even more curious about this Old Tang. He exchanged a few pleasantries with Guo Ziyu and then took his leave.

Upon returning to the manor, Chen Mo immediately summoned Li Qingniu and went to Wuqiao Town overnight to bring Li Qing and Juan'er back, arranging for them to stay in the backyard of Shoulu Manor.

It's more reassuring to keep these two people under our watchful eyes.

Juan'er returned to her original bedroom, ignoring everyone and focusing on fussing over her shadow puppet.

Seeing her like this, Chen Mo felt much relieved.

As long as Juan'er remains focused on the shadow puppetry, it means things haven't gotten out of control yet. I wonder what she'd be like if she did…

Back in his bedroom, Chen Mo picked up a broadsword.

"I feel uneasy even when I meet Shao Siming, and I have to be very careful. It's not a pleasant experience. In the end, I'm just too weak..."

Clang!

He drew his sword and began practicing the Black Fiend Blood Blade.

Since Mingyu Gong cannot break through the Ren Meridian for the time being, let's focus on swordsmanship for now.

The Black Fiend Blood Blade is the strongest sword technique Chen Mo has ever seen, requiring a fourth-level Martial Master to begin practicing. It consists of four forms: Blood Fiend, Black Tiger, Blood Blade, and Heavenly Gang.

The core principle is to nourish evil spirits with the soul and nourish the blade with blood.

Although it was created by an eighth-level martial artist, Chen Mo felt that its essence was exceptionally profound. Even a ninth-level martial artist would find it exceptionally powerful when using it.

Chen Mo had only cultivated to the second level of Black Tiger.

Back then, empowered by the Ghost Bone, Chen Mo used the Black Tiger to kill Shen Yujun. This demonstrates just how terrifying the power of this sword technique is.

"If I can reach the third form of Blood Blade sooner, my combat power will likely see a significant increase even before I break through in the Bright Jade Skill..."

The next morning, Chen Mo practiced his sword skills, ate breakfast, and then hurriedly went to the Martial Arts Pavilion.

The new village leaders hadn't arrived yet, so only the workers from Fu Huo Zhuang and Shou Lu Zhuang remained in the village, about twenty people in total, making the place deserted and quiet.

With Zhu Yutong and the ghost baby also being held captive by Guo Ziyu, the Martial Arts Pavilion was left unattended.

Chen Mo went straight to the third floor of the Martial Arts Pavilion and searched for martial arts techniques.

Having found the Black Fiend Blood Blade last time, he wanted to see if it contained any more advanced martial arts techniques. In particular, he wanted to find any notes left by predecessors, recording the key points of experience in breaking through the Ren and Du meridians.

After searching all morning, Chen Mo felt very disappointed.

The notes do exist, but they're too low-level, recording only trivial experiences. As for martial arts... none can compare to the Black Fiend Blood Blade.

Chen Mo left the Martial Arts Pavilion listlessly and went to the original pharmacy. There was still no one there, so Chen Mo stole some familiar tonics and returned to Shoulu Manor. He crushed the precious medicines, boiled them into a soup, poured it into a wooden tub, and gave himself a medicinal bath to nourish himself.

Seven days passed in a flash.

Chen Mo spent most of his time refining the Black Fiend Blood Blade. Due to his Yin-Yang constitution, he had long accumulated a strong amount of fiendish energy within his body, allowing him to progress rapidly in his cultivation.

Early that morning, just as dawn broke, Chen Mo went to the inner courtyard to practice his swordsmanship.

bump!
Chen Mo slashed out with his sword, unleashing a surge of murderous aura that stained the blade crimson. When it struck the ground, it caused a violent tremor, leaving a massive, scorching mark over two zhang long, and the bluestone bricks on the ground were burned black.

A smile appeared on Chen Mo's lips.

"I've mastered the third move, Blood Blade. Its power is indeed more than twice as strong as Black Tiger's. If I were to fight Shen Yujun again, I'm afraid I could kill her without taking any damage."

"I wonder who created this sword technique. They were a genius. It's perfect for me."

As soon as Chen Mo sheathed his sword, he noticed cracks appearing on its blade. With a "crack," the broadsword made of fine steel shattered into pieces.

"This... is it because the broadsword couldn't withstand the power of the blood blade? It shattered... No wonder, such a powerful blood blade is indeed difficult for an ordinary steel broadsword to withstand."

“I need a treasured sword. Tang Qi did say he wanted to reforge the Guan Dao into a broadsword. If that’s true… it would be convenient for me. Wielding a broadsword modified from a magic weapon, combined with this Blood Blade, even without using the power of the Ghost Bone, I should be able to hold my own against an eighth-level martial artist.”

After this period of understanding, Chen Mo has come to know that the eighth level of martial arts mastery is a huge watershed, and many seventh level martial arts masters can never cross it in their entire lives.

For a seventh-level martial artist to fight against an eighth-level martial artist is basically like an ant encountering a ferocious tiger; it's just a suicide mission.

But Chen Mo felt he could do it.

"Li Qing, is breakfast ready?"

Chen Mo called out towards the kitchen, only to see Li Qing rush out of the kitchen, smiling, "Everything's ready. And it's all highly nutritious meat."

Chen Mo responded and went into the kitchen to have breakfast with Li Qing.

Although the meat still made him nauseous, Chen Mo forced himself to swallow it, suppressing the discomfort in his heart with willpower.

When you're still a person, eat as much as you can.

During the meal, Chen Mo took a look at Li Qing. He noticed that after several days of recuperation, Li Qing's thin body had regained some color, and his complexion had improved. More importantly, his mental state was gradually returning to normal, and he was talking more.

After the meal, Li Qing cleared away the dishes and poured tea for Chen Mo, saying, "Young Master Mo, thank you for your protection these past few days. I thought that staying here would only cause you trouble."

Chen Mo was taken aback. "What do you want to do?"

Li Qing said, "I am a scholar. I passed the provincial examination in my early years, but I have never been able to pass the imperial examination. I have no other skills besides that. I was thinking..."

He hesitated, seemingly embarrassed.

Chen Mo took a sip of tea. "Please speak freely."

Li Qing then said, “I’m afraid that if I say this, you’ll laugh at me, young master. In this world, the court is corrupt and evil is rampant. Although I am over sixty, I know that my days are numbered. So I think… I should go to the capital again to take the imperial examination. I hope that I can pass the examination and enter officialdom so that I can do my part to change this world and make it more prosperous.”

puff~
The tea I had just drunk sprayed out.

Chen Mo was truly speechless. "No... Li Qing, are you serious?"

Li Qing stood up, walked up to Chen Mo, and said earnestly, "I know I'll make you laugh, but I'm really serious."

Chen Mo noticed the resolute look in Li Qing's eyes, but stopped laughing. "But you're already sixty, and you've neglected your studies. You..."

Li Qing said, "To be honest, young master, although I have been threatened and abused by that vile woman over the years, I have not neglected my studies while staying in the study of the Li residence. On the contrary, because I have experienced more and grown older, I can now understand the Confucian classics and court policies that I could not comprehend before. The imperial examinations of the Great Qian Dynasty do not have an age limit. Although I am too old to take the exams, it will only make me a laughing stock, but the rules allow it."

Chen Mo scrutinized Li Qing for a long time, then sighed softly, "Li Qing, even if you really pass the imperial examination and become an official, what good will it do you in this world...?"

Li Qing said, “I know that there is only so much I can do, but I don’t have many years left to live. Each generation has its own tasks, and I will do as much as I can. If I can save a few families and make a good life for a county, that would be good. If I can get the court to pay attention to evil spirits, reduce taxes, and promote martial arts, I can die in peace.”

Having said that, Li Qing knelt down at Chen Mo's feet and kowtowed, saying, "I know what Young Master Mo is worried about. I know your secret, and I'm afraid you've also considered killing me to silence me. But I, Li Qing, swear here and now that I will never speak of your affairs. Please grant my request."

Chen Mo suddenly felt a deep respect for this old man.

Although Chen Mo didn't believe that Li Qing becoming an official would change anything, he respected Li Qing's decision and aspirations. Chen Mo did indeed consider killing him to silence him.

But Chen Mo didn't want to become someone who indiscriminately killed innocent people.

After all... Chen Mo was a scholar in his previous life.

After gazing at him for a long time, Chen Mo finally spoke, "When do you plan to set off?"

Li Qing said, "My staying here is ultimately a hidden danger. If you grant my request, I will depart immediately. If you do not grant my request, please kill me immediately, for my life has no meaning."

Eh.

Chen Mo sighed, helped Li Qing up, and called out to the door, "Qingniu, bring the wine."

Li Qingniu brought over a jar of peach blossom wine. Chen Mo opened two ceramic bowls, filled one for himself, and then filled another for Li Qing. "Drink this farewell wine, and then you can go on your way."

Li Qing felt a shiver run through her body, and her hands trembled as she took the ceramic bowl.

bump.

Chen Mo tapped the ceramic bowl together and said, "Come, I'll see Li Qing off."

After saying that, Chen Mo raised his head and drank it all in one gulp.

Li Qing silently watched Chen Mo, a sudden wave of sorrow washing over her. She thought to herself: "Young Master Mo has finally made up his mind to kill me to silence me and send me on my way. So be it..."

Thinking of this, Li Qing didn't hesitate. Suddenly, he became bold and heroic, raised his head, and drank it all in one gulp.

As Li Qing put down the ceramic bowl, her eyes were red. "Thank you, Young Master Mo, for avenging me. It was only right that you killed me to ensure your secret wouldn't be leaked. I have no complaints. Come on, Young Master Mo, please do it!"

After saying that, Li Qing closed her eyes, looking as if she was ready to die.

Chen Mo was taken aback. "What are you doing?"

Li Qing opened her eyes. "Young Master invited me for a farewell drink, isn't that just to send me on my way?"

Chen Mo shook his head helplessly, "This wine is to send you off to the capital for the imperial examination, hoping you will pass with flying colors and do something for this world. Come to my room."

Once in the room, Chen Mo took out ten silver notes, each worth one hundred taels, and handed them to Li Qing: "Take these for your travel expenses. Consider it an investment in you. If you pass the imperial examination and become an official in the future, don't forget my kindness."

Chen Mo is about to join Tang Family Fortress and become a family that suppresses demons. Even if people find out about his ghost bones, it won't matter anymore.

Otherwise, even if Chen Mo didn't kill innocent people indiscriminately, he would never let him leave.

Li Qing trembled as he accepted the silver note, tears streaming down his face. He bowed deeply, saying, "Thank you so much, Young Master Mo, for your generous gift. If I pass the imperial examination, I will never forget your great kindness."

Chen Mo waved his hand, "Let's talk about it after we pass the imperial examination."

Passing the imperial examination is even harder than the college entrance examination; it's not something you can just decide to do.

Chen Mo then called Li Qingniu over, "Qingniu, take the manor's carriage and send him into the city."

Li Qing is gone.

Perhaps because Chen Mo was also a scholar, he personally escorted Li Qingcheng out of the village. As the carriage disappeared into the distance, the sun rose in the east, shining brightly.

Three more days passed.

The managers of the Red Lantern Gang still hadn't arrived, so the Martial Arts Pavilion and the Pharmacy had become Chen Mo's private domain. Chen Mo kept bringing out batches of potent medicinal herbs to use for his medicinal baths and to strengthen his body.

That noon, Chen Mo had just finished lunch when Guo Ziyu came looking for him.

"Is Young Master Mo free today?"

Chen Mo vaguely realized something. "You seem to have some free time. What brings you here, Miss Ziyu?"

Guo Ziyu leaned closer and said, "Old Tang has returned today. You shall come with me into the city."

Upon hearing that Elder Tang had arrived, Chen Mo felt a surge of anticipation and immediately agreed.

But problems soon arose.

Should we bring Juan'er along?
Leaving Juan'er here alone, I wonder if something will happen to her.

Guo Ziyu leaned over to look at Juan'er and saw that Juan'er was engrossed in repairing the shadow puppets, so she asked, "Who is this little girl?"

Chen Mo didn't hide anything. He took Guo Ziyu out of Juan'er's room and whispered the story.

Guo Ziyu was astonished after hearing this. "There really is a human-shaped array eye. I heard some related secrets when I was in the Tang family, but I've never seen one. It seems the Shen family has its own secret methods. Does Young Master Mo intend to modify her array eye diagram for his own use?"

Chen Mo nodded, "That's a plan."

Guo Ziyu smiled and said, "Old Tang is familiar with formations and has done a lot of research on them. Perhaps Old Tang has a solution. Why don't you take Juan'er with you to see Old Tang?"

Chen Mo was secretly delighted: This Old Tang is really something.

Chen Mo then found Juan'er and said, "Juan'er, come with me for a bit."

Juan'er said, "I'm not going. I don't have time."

Chen Mo said, "This puppet probably can't be repaired in a short time. I'll take you to buy some other materials, and the repair will be much faster."

Sure enough, Juan'er suddenly raised her head, her eyes gleaming. "Alright."

……

"Freshly made tofu pudding, so sweet and delicious! If you don't like it, you don't have to pay."

"A powerful tonic pill made with a family secret recipe. Don't miss it if you pass by. Everyone who has used it says it's great!"

"..."

The streets of Hualiu Lane in Honghe County are filled with the cries of peddlers.

Chen Mo and Guo Ziyu walked side by side down the street, watching the bustling crowds. Juan'er, however, showed no interest in the hustle and bustle, her mind solely focused on purchasing materials for the puppet show. Whenever they didn't visit a shop related to puppetry, Juan'er's eyelids drooped. The street was gloomy and gave off an unsettling feeling.

Chen Mo: "Does Old Tang live in the county town?"

Guo Ziyu nodded: "Yes. But Old Tang has other important roles and is usually very busy. It's rare that he has time today."

After passing through the red-light district, we arrived at the banks of an artificial river.

The scenery here is beautiful, with rows of willow trees planted on both sides of the river. Although they haven't sprouted yet, thousands of willow branches are already hanging down. There are tourist boats coming and going on the river, many of which are carrying tourists, and there are boatwomen standing at the bow, rowing and singing.

The singing was melodious and captivating, making people linger and forget to leave.

At the end of the river stands a five-story wooden building, adorned with red lanterns. Some windows are open, revealing glimpses of alluring women in off-the-shoulder dresses, each one radiantly beautiful.

The wooden building had a horizontal plaque hanging above its main gate with three large characters: Spring Breeze Building.

The gate was filled with wealthy young men and learned scholars coming and going. Graceful women helped them up and down, making it quite a lively scene.

When Chen Mo saw the three characters "Chunfenglou", he was taken aback.

It seems that his elder brother and his predecessor... contracted madness because they went to Chunfeng Tower.

I never expected to see them come again today.

"Does Elder Tang live in Chunfeng Tower?"

Guo Ziyu shook her head: "No, that's not it. Old Master Tang is staying in a courtyard opposite Chunfeng Tower. Young Master Mo should be very familiar with Chunfeng Tower, right?"

Guo Ziyu knew that Chen Mo had contracted madness after hearing a ghost story at Chunfeng Tower.

Although Chen Mo had no memories of his predecessor and didn't know the specifics of this part, he had heard Qiu Lan say that his predecessor often went to Chunfeng Tower and fell ill within two days. But Guo Ziyu was present at the time.

Chen Mo said, "I'm fairly familiar with it."

As the three approached Chunfeng Tower, Chen Mo looked back at the imposing, towering wooden building and a bad feeling arose in his heart.

'It seems my elder brother and my predecessor both contracted madness inside. Perhaps my own madness... is quite unusual. Is this Spring Breeze Pavilion the origin of this madness?'

"Young Master Mo, we've arrived."

Guo Ziyu's voice came from beside Chen Mo, interrupting his thoughts.

Chen Mo turned around and saw a very ordinary courtyard house next to him. The sign above the gate read: Qingfu Residence.

dong dong dong.

Guo Ziyu stepped forward and knocked on the door.

A short while later, a creaking sound was heard, and someone came to open the door.

Chen Mo recognized this person; it was Tang Qi.

"Sister, Young Master Mo, you've finally arrived! Please come in quickly. Oh, this little girl is here too. What's her identity?"

Guo Ziyu glared at Tang Qi, "Don't ask any more questions."

Tang Qi seemed quite afraid of Guo Ziyu's identity, so she chuckled awkwardly and didn't dare to ask any further questions. She welcomed everyone inside, then cautiously checked the scene outside before closing the courtyard gate.

Chen Mo followed behind the crowd, glancing around from time to time.

The courtyard is not large; it's a single-courtyard structure.

Entering through the hanging flower gate, one arrives at the central courtyard, which is quite spacious, featuring a pond, a rockery, and a small training ground with weapon racks on either side. In the southeast corner, a cluster of exquisite potted plants stands, where an elderly man with white hair, dressed in a black robe, is pruning the flowers and plants with shears. Hearing someone approaching from behind, the old man puts down his shears and turns around.

Chen Mo then got a good look at the old man. He was about five feet tall and very thin. Although he had white hair and a wrinkled face, he was remarkably energetic. His skin was firm and there were few wrinkles. His eyes, in particular, were deep and broad, giving people a sense of lofty ideals.

"Miss, you've arrived! Please come in quickly. I received your message earlier, saying that a new person had joined the team, but I've been too busy with trivial matters to come. That's why it's been delayed until today." The old man was quite unpretentious, warmly welcoming everyone into the living room. He glanced at Chen Mo out of the corner of his eye, "Is this the new person you mentioned, Miss?"

Guo Ziyu took her seat at the head of the table and nodded, saying, "Yes. This man, Chen Mo, is the second young master of the Chen family in Honghe County. He's the one who killed Shen Yujun's entire family."

While pouring tea for everyone, Tang Qi added, "Old Tang, you have to stand up for me! Miss made me take the blame for all of this because of this newcomer. The other day when I saw Shao Siming in Wuqiao Town, that guy's eyes were practically spitting fire at me. He almost got into a fight with me. Miss's siding with outsiders is just too obvious."

Old Tang scoffed, "You're just being scapegoated. Killing Shen Yujun is a huge achievement. I reported it in my letter to the prefectural city, and all the credit goes to you. Stop acting all innocent after getting the benefit."

Tang Qi chuckled awkwardly and sat down to the side, saying, "So, I still owe Young Master Mo a huge favor."

Guo Ziyu glared at him. "It's good that you know."

Although it was their first meeting, Chen Mo felt that the three of them got along very well, and the atmosphere was excellent. It gave people a very relaxed and comfortable feeling.

After exchanging pleasantries and jokes for a while, Guo Ziyu got straight to the point, "Elder Tang, the ghost bone from the Li residence ended up on Young Master Mo. Although Young Master Mo has mortal blood, he is able to control this ghost bone. However, Shao Siming has become suspicious, so I thought I would have Young Master Mo pay his respects as soon as possible and join my Tang Family Fortress. If Shao Siming discovers this in the future, my Tang Family Fortress can openly protect Young Master Mo."

Old Master Tang nodded slightly, "Miss is truly considerate of Young Master Mo. Since she has taken a liking to him, I will skip the tests. Please follow me to the back hall. This young lady..."

Guo Ziyu explained Juan'er's origins, which greatly surprised Old Tang.

Even more astonished than hearing that Chen Mo could control ghost bones with mortal blood, he stared at Juan'er with wide eyes. Juan'er had no liking for this old man who had come closer, her expression full of disdain.

After a long while, Elder Tang sat back down and looked at Chen Mo again: "Young Master Mo is truly blessed. This human-shaped array eye is something I've never seen before. It is the Shen family's most treasured possession, with endless uses. Come with me to pay your respects."

Chen Mo followed Old Tang to the backyard, where a room had been set up as a small ancestral hall. As soon as he entered, he felt a solemn and dignified atmosphere, making Chen Mo feel quite insignificant.

A quick glance around revealed that the room was filled with candles. In front of them was an altar with various offerings and an incense burner filled with sticks of incense.

Behind the incense burner, on the wall, there was a three-foot-high shrine with its two doors tightly closed.

It is faintly visible that the incense from the incense burner is flowing into the shrine.

Ok?
Chen Mo raised an eyebrow.

Another one who absorbs offerings?

It seems that in Honghe County, only the Red Lantern Goddess and that spirit infant can absorb incense offerings.

What is this?
Old Master Tang stood before the desk, bowing respectfully before solemnly addressing Chen Mo, "The disciples of my Tang Family Fortress are divided into direct disciples, inner disciples, outer disciples, and servants. Direct disciples are the offspring of my Tang Family Fortress. Each possesses the bloodline of a demon-suppressing family, naturally placing them at the highest level. Inner disciples are mostly renowned figures in the martial arts world, highly skilled, serving as leaders of martial arts sects or officials in the imperial court. Outer disciples are mostly martial arts practitioners with considerable strength, while servants are the weakest. This division clarifies responsibilities and facilitates the allocation of Tang Family Fortress's training resources according to rank. If someone is introduced by another, they can only become an outer disciple at most. However, Young Master Mo was personally introduced by Miss, can wield ghost bones, and possesses a human-shaped array eye. With a promising future, he has directly entered the inner disciple."

Chen Mo nodded in agreement.

Old Tang continued, "The one sitting in this shrine is the deity worshipped by my Tang Family Fortress, the Black-Armored Knight. Young Master Mo, by offering three sticks of incense to the Black God with me, you will be considered to have entered the gates of my Tang Family Fortress."

After saying that, Old Tang opened the two small doors of the shrine.

Chen Mo's pupils contracted, and sure enough, he saw a statue inside. Inside the statue was a horse and a black-clad knight holding a three-pointed double-edged sword. The horse's forelegs were raised high, and the knight on its back held a long sword, standing with the sword held horizontally, looking quite domineering and magnificent.

Old Tang handed Chen Mo three sticks of black incense, lit them himself, inserted them into the incense burner, and then prostrated himself in prayer, saying solemnly, "Black God above, today Tang Zhengyang, the welcoming attendant of Tang Family Fortress, is leading a newcomer, Chen Mo, into the family. May the Black God grant his approval and protect the Tang family, and protect Chen Mo..."

Chen Mo followed suit, but as he bowed, his eyes lingered on the black god, thinking: This is probably an evil god too. Today, I, Chen Mo, am still weak, yet I bow to you. Even if I become a ghost someday, I might still make you worship me. If you become gods, why can't I become one too!

No one knew about Chen Mo's outrageous idea.

The prayer service concluded quickly.

Just then, Chen Mo clearly felt that the Black God had sent down a wisp of black divine thought, which entered Chen Mo's brow.

Guo Ziyu was delighted to see this, saying, "This is the method of preserving the spirit from the Burial of Souls Scripture. The Black God Lord has bestowed this method of preserving the spirit, which means he has acknowledged you."

Chen Mo nodded in agreement and thanked him.

Old Master Tang led everyone out of the ancestral hall and back to the living room in the central courtyard, a smile appearing on his face: "Today's ceremony went smoothly. Congratulations, Young Master Mo. From now on, you are a member of our Tang Family Fortress. Even if someone discovers that you are using the Ghost Bone, just mention the name of the Tang Family Fortress, and no one will dare to make a fuss about it. But this is, after all, an unwritten rule among aristocratic families. You should be careful, you should still be careful."

Chen Mo cupped his hands in agreement, then asked, "Once we enter Tang Family Fortress, are there any rules to follow? Or are there any matters to be addressed?"

Old Master Tang chuckled and said, “Our Tang Family Fortress is a legitimate aristocratic family. Our duty is to assist the Imperial Demon Suppression Division in exorcising evil spirits and protecting the people. There are usually no rules; all we need to do is exorcise evil spirits. If you succeed, you can report it to me. It counts as merit, and Tang Family Fortress will issue rewards according to the size of the contribution. There are many benefits. As for other matters… there’s nothing much. Apart from the tasks assigned by Tang Family Fortress, you are free to do as you please. In addition, now that Young Master Mo has entered the inner sect, he can naturally look through the corresponding martial arts techniques and medicinal supplements. Miss will explain these to you in detail later.”

Chen Mo felt this was pretty good.

Whether or not the evil spirits were exorcised, Chen Mo didn't care much. What he cared about were the martial arts skills and medicinal supplements given by Tang Family Fortress, as well as the rewards he could exchange for his merits.

Old Tang said, "Today is a good day. Tang Qi, go and prepare a table full of food. We can't let Young Master Mo come all this way and go back hungry."

Tang Qi acknowledged and took her leave, then went to the kitchen to get ready.

Chen Mo and the other two chatted in the living room. During the chat, Chen Mo asked about the Tang Family Fortress, but Old Tang kept his mouth shut and did not reveal any important information.

Finally, Chen Mo spoke up, "By the way, Elder Tang, I heard from Miss Ziyu that some members of aristocratic families use the power of ghosts to enhance their strength?"

Old Tang didn't hide anything, "It's like this. Some powerful family disciples use ghost bones to enhance their strength. However, this is ultimately a last resort. If they use the power of ghosts, they will be corrupted by them and eventually die or become vengeful ghosts, killed by other families."

Chen Mo asked earnestly, "Has anyone managed to safely reach the shore after using a ghostly object?"

Old Master Tang said, "Once you use the power of a ghost, it's like engaging in a tug-of-war with it. If you're strong enough, you can naturally suppress the ghost. But it will also shorten your lifespan, making you more prone to illness and misfortune in your later years. Once your body weakens due to old age, or you suffer a serious injury or illness, the suppressed ghost will turn around and erode your body. Therefore, most scions of noble families use the power of ghosts that are much weaker than themselves, playing a supporting role. They dare not rashly use ghosts whose strength is close to their own. As for ghosts whose strength exceeds their own, they would never dare to use them."

Chen Mo had a bad feeling.

Even scions of powerful families only dare to use ghosts that are much weaker than themselves, which shows how terrifying ghosts are.

The demon bone within him was far more powerful than his own.

If it backfires... that would be terrible.
That's a bit scary.

Old Tang sighed, "The Demon-Suppressing Families appear glamorous on the surface, but in reality, they face immense pressure as they assist the Imperial Demon-Suppressing Division in governing such a vast country. Using ghostly objects is truly a last resort. The Imperial Court is aware of this, but there's nothing they can do; they lack the manpower and can only tacitly approve. Therefore, the scions of these families who use ghostly objects generally dare not let others know openly. They only dare to use them in private. If others find out, as long as it doesn't cause a major public outcry, the Imperial Court and the various families will turn a blind eye. That's the reason."

Chen Mo composed himself and asked, "Elder Tang, does Tang Family Fortress have any methods to stop the erosion of ghost bones?"

Old Tang said, "Of course there are. Each of the major families has its own corresponding methods."

Chen Mo stood up, cupped his hands, and said, "Please enlighten me, Elder Tang."

Old Master Tang didn't answer, but turned to look at Guo Ziyu. Seeing Guo Ziyu nod, Old Master Tang said, "Since Miss agrees, I will teach you this method. Originally, this method could only be passed down by my Tang family, but Young Master Mo is an extraordinary person who can control ghost bones with mortal blood. So I will pass it on to you. This method is called... Ghost Bone Fusion Technique."

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

P.S.: The update volume is large, so I can't guarantee an update at noon. It's a bit late. It's still 20,000 words.

(End of this chapter)