A Man Like None Other

“Very well. We’re all in this together now,” Thaddeus declared. “It’s time to make a blood oath.” He let a single drop of his blood essence fall into the wine cup before him.

The others followed suit, each adding a drop of their own blood essence to the cup before downing the wine in a single gulp, sealing their vows with a shared commitment.

Meanwhile, Sylvain from the Laurent family, also the president of Medicine God Island, lay wide awake, unable to find rest.

He stood before the window, gazing out at the full moon and the ceaseless waves crashing ashore, lost in deep contemplation.

Beneath Sylvain’s feet, a swarm of golden beetles moved about, their faint glow casting a subtle shimmer.

These beetles, a unique species native to Medicine God Island, were Sylvain’s cultivation.

Originally black, the beetle’s shell had turned golden over time. This transformation occurred due to its constant exposure to the mist produced from the potion brewing by the Medicine God on Medicine God Island.

A single bite from a golden beetle was already formidable, and the combined strength of a swarm was truly astonishing.

“Dad, it’s late. You should get some rest,” Maxence said softly as he entered his father’s room, noticing the persistent light.

He stepped carefully among the golden beetles crawling across the floor, which seemed to part and create a clear path with each of his steps.

Sylvain, still gazing out the window at the moonlit waves crashing on the shore, spoke with a hint of anxiety in his voice. “Max, do you think we’ll make it through this ordeal?”

“Dad, hundreds of alchemists have arrived, representing the most prominent medical families. Even four of the five regional Alchemist Guild presidents are here. I don’t believe the Sky Slasher Sect would dare to cause any trouble,” Maxence said reassuringly. “Their attempts to intimidate us are nothing more than bluster. With their mediocre medical skills, even if we were to surrender Medicine God Island to them, they would still be unable to grasp the legacy left by the Medicine God.”

“Don’t worry too much, Dad,” Maxence continued, trying to offer comfort. “As the saying goes, different situations call for different actions. We’ll take it one step at a time.”

After hearing this, Sylvain responded with a wry smile and turned to look at Maxence. “Max, do you also think that the reason I’m holding the Alchemist Fair on Medicine God Island is to rally these alchemists against the Sky Slasher Sect?”

“Isn’t that your intention?” Maxence sounded puzzled.

“Of course not.” Sylvain’s gaze grew resolute and profound. “I genuinely wanted to use the resources of Medicine God Island to benefit all the alchemists in the Ethereal Realm. It would be even better if someone could unlock the secrets of the Medicine God’s legacy.”

Maxence stared blankly at his father, a storm of complex emotions churning within him.

Sylvain paced slowly, continuing, “The Ethereal Realm has far too few alchemists, and only a handful possess truly exceptional medical skills. Most cultivators are obsessed with their quest for immortality, and none are willing to dedicate themselves to mastering the medicine skills.”

His voice was laced with helplessness.Nôvel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.

“Dad, I had no idea you felt this way,” Maxence said, a note of concern in his voice. “But are we prepared to face the risks involved?”

“So what if there are risks?” Sylvain interrupted. “If I can make even a small contribution to the alchemists of the Ethereal Realm, then I’ll feel my life has not been lived in vain. We absolutely cannot let the Sky Slasher Sect, with their impure intentions, get their hands on the Medicine God’s legacy. If they inherit it, they would undoubtedly bring immense disaster to the realm of mortals.”

Maxence fell silent for a moment before speaking. “Dad, I understand now. I’ll fully support your decision.”

Sylvain placed a reassuring hand on Maxence’s shoulder. “Max, there are many factions with hidden agendas at this Alchemist Fair. We need to tread carefully, but we must never lose sight of our original purpose.”.

Maxence nodded firmly. “Dad, I promise I will protect Medicine God Island and ensure that the Alchemist Fair goes smoothly.”

The moonlight bathed them in a soft glow, highlighting their resolute figures. Yet, beneath the serene surface of Medicine God Island, dark and ominous currents were stirring, heralding an impending crisis.