Chapter 52: The Disciple and Master's Politeness, Dugu Bo's Big Gamble
Seeing the master and disciple duo walking toward the rare treasures around them, Dugu Bo hesitated for a moment but still decided to follow.
Since they were already acquainted, he was curious to see exactly which plants they referred to as "immortal herbs." He wanted to understand what kind of plants had made Guang Ling develop such a strong killing intent toward him.
From his observations, he could tell that all these plants were extremely valuable, but unfortunately, he didn't recognize them and didn't dare touch them recklessly.
The last time he accidentally got too close to a certain plant, he had almost lost his life on the spot. The poison in his body had surged uncontrollably, and that was just from inhaling some pollen. Because of this, he had only dared to use herbs that he was already familiar with.
Of course, he had managed to collect some unknown herbs too, but he hadn't had the chance to study them yet.
Besides, he had already made up his mind to cling to a strong backer, so learning more wouldn't make a difference at this point.
Seeing Dugu Bo follow them, the master and disciple didn't comment. Since they had decided to take him in, there was no point in hiding certain things from him.
This was also a good chance to test Dugu Bo's character and decide how to treat him in the future.
They exchanged a glance before turning their attention to a large pale pink flower. Under Guang Ling's watchful eyes, Han Li walked up to it, took out a flower pot and a small shovel, and carefully dug it up, transplanting it along with the surrounding soil.
Dugu Bo followed his actions with his gaze. The large pink flower had no leaves, a three foot long stem, and an enormous blossom with a diameter of over a foot. Each petal was as clear and lustrous as crystal, and the center of the flower was a soft purple, resembling tiny amethyst gemstones.
"What kind of flower is this?"
Seeing that neither master nor disciple intended to explain, Dugu Bo couldn't help but ask.
"Fragrant Exotic Silk Immortal Herb, the bane of all poisons. It can neutralize any toxin, though it does not actually cure poisoning it simply counteracts it." Han Li continued his excavation without turning his head.
"The bane of all poisons?"
Dugu Bo's face showed a hint of longing as he instinctively took a few steps closer, entirely fixated on Han Li's words while conveniently ignoring the latter half of his explanation.
"You idiot, do you have a death wish?"
Guang Ling's voice rang out just as an arrow whizzed past Dugu Bo's face, shocking him back to his senses.
Feeling a mix of shame and frustration, Dugu Bo turned his head, only to hear Guang Ling continue, "Didn't you hear what Han Li just said? It doesn't cure poison! Has your brain been rotted by your own venom? Or do you just want to die right now?"
Dugu Bo's face turned red, then white, but under Guang Ling's powerful presence, he didn't dare retort. He knew that if he took another step forward, Guang Ling wouldn't hesitate to put an arrow through his head.
By this time, Han Li had already finished transplanting the flower. He stood up, turned around, and glanced at Dugu Bo without saying anything.
"Master, you should pick your herbs first."
"Han Li, you should pick the ones you need first."
The two voices overlapped, carrying the same meaning despite the different wording.
Hearing each other's words, they both spoke again at the same time.
"No, Master/Han Li, you go first."
Once again, their voices synchronized. They looked at each other and couldn't help but smile. Guang Ling even burst into laughter, feeling deeply gratified.
"Han Li, listen to me. You should choose first. The younger you are, the greater the benefits of consuming immortal herbs. I'm already old. My goal is to use these herbs to break through to Rank 98, but taking them now would be a waste. I still need a few years to accumulate enough spirit power. By then, you will have already grown strong."
Guang Ling spoke seriously, but his eyes betrayed his longing as he glanced at the Eight Petal Ice Crystal Plant near the edge of the pond.
It was the only herb here that enhanced ice attributes. If he carefully refined it with the other top tier medicinal plants here, it could suppress toxins and help him absorb its energy successfully. Even Chrysanthemum Douluo had recorded a formula for refining it in his notes.
But he also knew that his disciple had an affinity for ice as well perfectly balanced with fire, no less.
Coincidentally, right beside the Ice Crystal Plant was the Infernal Delicate Apricot, another plant with miraculous properties. Although Guang Ling hadn't memorized the entire herbal compendium, he did remember one thing:
The Ice Crystal Plant and the Infernal Delicate Apricot, when consumed together, could grant an "Ice Fire Golden Body," making one immune to water and fire. It was a divine opportunity that he couldn't afford to ruin.
He truly desired these immortal herbs, but as a master, he had his pride. This entire place was discovered by Han Li, after all. What kind of teacher would snatch his disciple's chance?
Guang Ling's words filled Han Li with emotion. He had seen how much Guang Ling longed for the Ice Crystal Plant he had secretly glanced at it numerous times but in the end, he still let Han Li choose first, effectively giving it up.
But truthfully, Han Li didn't care for the Ice Crystal Plant. He genuinely intended to let Guang Ling have it.
It wasn't because he underestimated the "Ice Fire Golden Body." Rather, he simply didn't dare take the risk.
The records made it sound promising, but there was no documented case of anyone successfully achieving it.
In contrast, Chrysanthemum Douluo had detailed several cases where a single herb, combined with other medicines, had been successfully absorbed. Han Li had even refined the method further based on the herbal descriptions.
Yes, he knew Tang San had succeeded in the original story. But he wasn't going to gamble on that.
These two herbs were different from the rest. Eating them required jumping into the Ice Fire Yin Yang Well to "bathe" in its power. Han Li already possessed extreme ice and fire immunity his body was as strong as a Spirit Ancestor's. Did he really need to risk his life for an additional buff?
Why take a gamble on survival when he could steadily grow stronger?
As for poison immunity, wasn't that what the Fragrant Exotic Silk Immortal Herb was for?
Han Li glanced at Guang Ling and spoke seriously.
"Master, you know me. I'm cautious I fear death. You want me to eat these and jump into that boiling pool? Not happening."
"Besides, I already have a strong resistance to ice and fire. My body is as tough as a Spirit Ancestor's. Do you really think I need to strengthen it even more? So, let's settle it Master, the Ice Crystal Plant is yours."
Guang Ling was momentarily stunned before his expression turned odd.
He hadn't expected his disciple to use such an argument, but after thinking about Han Li's usual behavior, it actually made perfect sense.
Seeing that Guang Ling was starting to waver, Han Li pressed on, "And Master, don't forget this entire place was drawn to me because of my martial soul. That's my biggest reward, not the herbs."
Guang Ling unconsciously nodded in agreement. He had felt his own instincts warning him against getting too close to the well. Great danger often accompanied great opportunity.
"So, you should take it. If we found this place, others might too. The stronger you are, the better you can protect this treasure trove."
Guang Ling nodded again, but this time, he quickly caught himself.
Wait a second.
Wasn't he being completely led into this decision?
This little brat had just talked him into taking the Ice Crystal Plant without even realizing it.
Guang Ling frowned in thought, deliberating his choice.
Han Li, seeing this, stayed silent, patiently waiting for his answer.
Meanwhile, the forgotten Dugu Bo had been listening to the entire exchange.
He had just learned the effects of these two miraculous herbs and had witnessed how these two fought over who wouldn't take them.
A thought crossed his mind.
Perhaps… it was time for him to take a gamble.
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