Chapter 957

Master Qiankun can see things ordinary people cannot.

In earlier years, when he was at 【Qianyao Palace】, he learned a little of this mysterious art of divination from his master.

Though his studies were scattered, they left him many useful insights.

Unfortunately, being a native of 【Qing Guo】, after some turmoil occurred at 【Qianyao Palace】, he ultimately left 【Qianyao Palace】 and returned to his homeland in 【Qing Guo】.

He once owed his life to You Lao, and learned arts under him.

Even his later apprenticeship at 【Qianyao Palace】 was recommended by You Lao, so whenever 【You Family】 matters arose, he rarely refused.

As for You Sisi, he had watched her grow up; now this once-small girl sincerely begged for his help—logically, he had no reason to turn her down.

Yet…

Master Qiankun laid out several copper coins on the table, swiftly flicking them with his index and ring fingers, closed his eyes, and after a moment, sighed again.

Still couldn't see through it.

Whether his own, You Sisi's, or even the entire 【Jingcheng】 divination patterns had become utterly chaotic.

Master Qiankun regarded You Sisi with a complex expression.

A person without form…

This was a dangerous divination pattern; typically, only a few imperial princes bore such a unique pattern, signifying their claim to 【Qing Guo】's destiny.

You Sisi's divination pattern had once been crystal clear, but after dying and returning to life…

Could she, too, be a child of fate?

Master Qiankun couldn't see through it, but no matter what, leaving now was not wise.

A true man steps back, preserves himself—there's no shame in that.

"Master Qiankun, my friend and I will protect your safety, and the strange anomalies left by the Black Moon Organization have been mostly dealt with by the Qing Bureau—no need to worry."

"What I worry about has never been the anomalies ravaging outside…"

Master Qiankun shook his head slightly; he trusted the divination patterns.

When the patterns are chaotic, 【Jingcheng】 will fall into chaos—this current turmoil is likely only the beginning.

As for You Sisi's protection…

He glanced at Niu Niu, who was yawning beside him.

This guy, plus You Sisi—their combined strength might not even match mine… how could they possibly protect me?

If it were… those few friends outside, they might truly have the strength to ensure my brief safety.

But those hidden figures—whether they're even allies is uncertain.

"Master Qiankun, my friend is badly wounded and won't last much longer. Only you in all of 【Jingcheng】 can save him. Name your price—I'll do my utmost to fulfill it. If I can't meet it, when Grandfather returns, I'll beg him to compensate you."

As she spoke, You Sisi wore a pitiful, pleading expression.

Master Qiankun thought for a moment, then reluctantly nodded.

"I'll set aside the reward for now—I'll go with you first and see your friend's condition."

You Sisi had said this much—if he still refused to act, he'd have no excuse when You Lao returned.

You Lao would never blame him, but Master Qiankun himself would feel guilty—after all… she was You Lao's own granddaughter.

"Master Qiankun! Thank you!" You Sisi exclaimed joyfully.

This way, when Ye Ge returns, he'll have something to report.

After all, if even Master Qiankun can't save Captain Lin, then no one in 【Jingcheng】 can.

He had servants prepare a medical chest, then left the mansion with You Sisi and Niu Niu.

The carriage moved toward 【Yuansuan Kezhan】.

Meanwhile, Ku Xun and Xi Dao, who had been hiding in the shadows following You Sisi, exchanged glances, signaled the others, and silently followed.

They were under the Seventh Prince's orders to protect You Sisi's safety—naturally, wherever she went, they went; what she intended to do was none of their concern.

As if sensing something, Master Qiankun's ears twitched slightly, and a faint smile appeared.

"Not bad—they followed."

"What?" Niu Niu, nearby, heard Master Qiankun's murmur and asked curiously.

"Nothing. By the way, your attire—aren't you a disciple of the Flame Fire Sect? The Flame Fire Sect and the Extreme Ice Sect are locked in fierce battle—why are you wandering 【Jingcheng】 like nothing's wrong?"

Niu Niu perked up instantly and shouted proudly: "Because I'm a waste! (loudly)"

Master Qiankun:???

"Master Qiankun, ignore him—I have another matter I'd like to ask you, as an elder." You Sisi quickly sidestepped Niu Niu and sat beside Master Qiankun.

"Go on."

You Sisi suddenly grew shy, whispering in a voice barely audible: "It's just… I have a friend. She's already confirmed her relationship with the young man she likes, but now that young man has grown close to another girl. What attitude should my friend take toward that girl?"

"Huh? Sister-in-law, are you suspecting Ye Ge and Tail? Let me tell you, they're not—"

"I didn't say anything!!"

The sudden high pitch drowned out Niu Niu's voice.

Master Qiankun couldn't help but smile wryly—he couldn't answer such youthful questions.

The carriage moved swiftly and soon arrived at 【Yuansuan Kezhan】.

But to You Sisi's surprise, a corpse lay at the inn's entrance.

Her face changed; she hurried forward to inspect it—and immediately sighed in relief.

Not someone she knew.

"Mo Cuo Tuo, the One Who Laughs and Silences, a civilian martial artist, Xiantian Realm."

Hearing Master Qiankun's voice behind her, You Sisi was startled.

"Master Qiankun knows his background?"

"Yes, I generally keep tabs on the various factions and renowned warriors in Jingcheng, with some passing knowledge. This man prefers to work alone, taking contracts for a living—whether dealing with anomalies or assassinating wealthy men, he takes any job, and is somewhat well-known among the common folk."

"A Bounty Hunter?" Niu Niu cut straight to the point.

Having examined the wound, he was certain the man had been killed by his junior No. 1.

Without further thought, he rushed into the inn.

"A Bounty Hunter... that term isn't inaccurate."

Neither good nor bad—just forced by circumstances.

Master Qiankun viewed things from a detached perspective; he saw nothing wrong with such people, nor did he think their deaths warranted any pursuit.

"It seems the target is your friend. Just now, I spotted the latest wanted notice from the Qingsi on the wall corner—this man likely took the bounty to kill your friend."

As he spoke, he stepped into the inn, You Sisi following closely behind, but inside the inn, the clash of swords and blades had already begun.

"Niu Niu, I'm here to help!"

You Sisi drew her sword and immediately joined the battle.

Master Qiankun frowned and did not act rashly.

For he had detected at least a dozen others lurking nearby.

(End of Chapter)