The next day.
News of the Amethyst Winged Lion King entering the capital of the Jia Ma Empire spread like wildfire throughout the imperial city.
Soon, everyone knew that the Amethyst Winged Lion King was Chen Mo's mount — the very man who, on the frontlines, had fought four Dou Zongs single-handedly and slain them, ultimately causing the empire's defeat.
And now, his mount had entered the capital. The city was instantly thrown into chaos, rumors flooding every street and corner.
Especially when the Amethyst Winged Lion King was seen landing within the Mittel Family's estate, the gossip reached a fever pitch.
Some claimed the Mittel Family were spies for the Snake-People Tribe, traitors who had sold out the empire.
Others whispered that Ya Fei had a secret relationship with Chen Mo.
There were also those who said the Mittel Family had wisely aligned themselves with Chen Mo's growing influence, proving their sharp business instincts.
In short, rumors of every kind filled the air.
While speculation ran rampant throughout the capital, the atmosphere inside the Mittel Family headquarters in the southern district was tense to the extreme. Servants and guards hurried to and fro across the sprawling estate.
Every guard had been recalled from outside posts. In fact, when Chen Mo and the Amethyst Winged Lion King had left the capital, Ya Fei had already instructed Teng Shan to prepare for this.
Now, the Mittel Estate was heavily fortified. In the shadows, countless crossbows gleamed with cold light, ready to unleash a deadly storm of bolts at the first sign of an intruder.
Meanwhile, in the grand council hall at the heart of the manor, the air was thick with pressure.
Those seated there were all core members of the Mittel Family, yet most faces looked grim and uneasy.
Sitting near the head of the table, just below Teng Shan, Ya Fei wore a calm smile.
"Now that the Snake-People Tribe's occupation of the Jia Ma Empire is an undeniable fact," she said softly, "the Mittel Family's decision to join the Mo Shadow Pavilion brings us no harm — only benefits.
With this, our family's influence could one day span the entire continent. Besides, the founder of the Mo Shadow Pavilion is Chen Mo himself — his talent and strength are known to all of you."
As soon as she finished speaking, the elders began whispering among themselves once more.
At the head of the table, Mittel Teng Shan spoke suddenly, "Think carefully about Ya Fei and Chen Mo's relationship. In the end, Chen Mo is family — he's essentially the son-in-law of the Mittel Family.
Now that he's established the Mo Shadow Pavilion, as Ya Fei's family, shouldn't we show our support?"
As one of the Jia Ma Empire's Top Ten Experts and the most authoritative figure in the Mittel Family, Teng Shan's words carried tremendous weight. Instantly, all eyes turned to the enchanting woman sitting beside him.
Moments later, an elder of high standing — second only to Teng Shan — spoke up, "I agree."
"I agree as well."
"So do I."
One after another, every elder voiced their approval. It was unanimous — the Mittel Family would formally join the Mo Shadow Pavilion.
Ya Fei exhaled in relief, a bright smile blossoming on her stunning face.
Your Majesty, she thought silently, I hope this gift pleases you.
Just as the meeting was about to end, Teng Shan suddenly smiled.
"I'm getting old," he said lightly. "My strength and stamina are no longer what they once were. This is the age of the young. From today onward… Ya Fei shall be the new head of the Mittel Family."
The announcement was so abrupt that everyone in the hall froze in shock — including Ya Fei herself.
After a few moments of stunned silence, the elders exchanged glances before bowing respectfully.
"Greetings, Family Head!" they said in unison.
"Nalan Yanran has arrived?"
Leaving the council hall, Ya Fei had intended to send Mo Yan back to report to Chen Mo, but a maid quickly approached to deliver the news.
"Yes, Clan—ah, Family Head. She's waiting in the guest hall." The maid had almost called her "Miss," but quickly corrected herself.
In the guest hall.
A young girl in a light moon-white robe sat quietly on a fur chair. Though only thirteen or fourteen years old, her figure already showed graceful curves, and her delicate features bloomed like a young lotus.
Creak. The door opened.
Hearing the sound, the girl immediately stood up, her eyes brightening when she saw the beautiful, alluring woman enter. Before Ya Fei could even sit down, the girl hurriedly spoke,
"Big Sister Ya Fei, you're finally here! I have something important to tell you!"
Ya Fei, who also had things to discuss with Nalan Yanran, saw her anxious expression and quickly dismissed everyone else, closing the doors behind them.
"Is it about Sect Master Yun?" she asked directly.
Nalan Yanran nodded, her expression heavy. "Teacher… she…"
One day later.
Qinghong City.
The night was calm and quiet.
Inside a dimly lit room, Chen Mo did not stay in Queen Medusa's quarters. Looking at Mo Yan, who was kneeling on one knee before him, he immediately asked,
"How did it go?"
Mo Yan's voice remained cold and emotionless as usual.
"I have relayed Master's message to Ya Fei. She is now the head of the Mittel Family.
Also, Yun Yun is currently in the Nalan Estate. Her injuries are severe. President Fa Ma has diagnosed that she urgently requires a Heavenly Flame for treatment. If her condition is allowed to continue, she may become crippled."
"What?" Chen Mo's expression changed drastically. He rose to his feet at once. Summoning Mo Yan back into his body, he rushed out of the room and headed straight for Queen Medusa's chambers.
Inside, the lights were warm and bright.
Die was sitting on the bed, sewing a fragrant sachet for him.
Queen Medusa, watching the intricate patterns being stitched, said casually, "Sister, where did you learn your embroidery? It's quite beautiful."
"From Hua She'er's third aunt," Die replied with a gentle smile. "Among the Snake-People Tribe, her needlework was the best when she was young. She could even embroider mandarin ducks."
"I see…" Queen Medusa murmured, silently remembering the name.
Just as she was about to ask if her sister planned to make one for her as well, the door burst open, and Chen Mo rushed in.
Seeing him, Queen Medusa's face instantly turned cold — conveniently forgetting how she had allowed him to fondle her soft curves the night before. Frowning, she snapped,
"I'll tell you this, tonight you—"
"Queen, Die — something's come up. I need to leave for a while. I might be gone for some time."
Die looked up softly. "All right. Be careful."
Queen Medusa crossed her arms, her tone icy. "What is it? Where are you going?"
"Yun Yun's seriously injured. She's in the Nalan Estate in the capital. She needs a Heavenly Flame to recover. I'm going to see her," Chen Mo said truthfully.
Queen Medusa's eyes narrowed. "You're not going."
Die, however, said calmly, "Go, but come back soon."
Queen Medusa turned her sharp gaze toward her sister.
Without another word, Chen Mo kissed both women lightly on the forehead. Then, with a flash of golden light, radiant wings unfolded from his back. With one powerful beat, he soared out the window.
Under the cover of night, he streaked toward the imperial capital.
"You bastard!" Queen Medusa shouted, her face cold as frost. "If you go, don't even think about coming back! Chen Mo, you—get back here right now!"
Her chest heaved with fury. She twisted her waist as if preparing to chase after him, but Die quickly embraced her from behind.
"Sister, your wounds haven't healed yet… please, calm down."
****
If you want to support me or read advanced chapters (26+), consider checking out my Kof.
ko-fi.com/shax07