Chapter 4, Identity

Tian Maoping observed the crowd with a cold gaze. Apart from Ouyang Yue and a small maid who daily attended to Ouyang Haotian, everyone else present were trusted confidants of the Second Madam. It seemed better to extricate himself as soon as possible. However, it was not appropriate to request to go to Tianyi Gate for cultivation at this moment, as that would easily arouse the suspicions of his father. Even if he were to speak up, he needed to carefully consider his words and must not act recklessly

Physician Chunyu wore a slight frown: "Mr. Ouyang, madam, I am not a deity; my understanding of these circumstances is merely speculative. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination for the young master, and I hope both of you will cooperate."

Physician Chunyu furrowed his brow; he was not a professional. After a moment of contemplation, he said, "What the young master mentioned is indeed an oversight on my part. Upon further reflection, it seems somewhat unreasonable. This Second Madam, regardless of her appearance or status, should not have married Ouyang Yue back in the day. Unfortunately, all our Heavenly Demon Sect's previously established informants have been eliminated, and we can no longer obtain any assistance or information. Perhaps there are other hidden circumstances in this matter, but it will require time for investigation."

There are too many questions in my heart that I wish to find answers to, yet being in an unfamiliar environment requires utmost caution. If any mistakes occur, then the twelve years of hard work and suffering will turn to dust, and the earnest hopes of the founding emperor will also be in vain. I must remain calm; I must remain calm. Even if I break free from the shackles, and despite having countless reasons to celebrate, I cannot show the slightest hint of anything unusual

Physician Chunyu smiled and said: "My lord, there is no need for concern. It is merely because the potency of the medicine is extremely strong. The young master has been lying down for three full years, and it is possible that his mind may be somewhat unclear, with memories of the past being quite vague. It will require careful attention to help him recall. In addition, dietary considerations are essential. Initially, he should be given liquid food, and by the third day, the amount of meat should be increased. He should eat as much as he can; do not hesitate to spend money."

Nodding slightly, Tian Maoping generally understood the power structure within the Ouyang residence. The Second Madam held supreme authority, and compared to those prominent families, this merchant family was quite straightforward, making it relatively easy to analyze

The middle-aged man with a big nose wiped away his tears and nodded, saying: "Doctor Chunyu is right; I have been reckless. Everyone, please leave; do not disturb Haotian."

Physician Chunyu did not know the person before him well, only aware that some time ago, various sects had taken drastic measures to eliminate all demonic spies. He himself was merely a backup piece in the idle "dark chess" and had not received the Heavenly Demon Order for a long time. However, his peaceful life was disrupted by the youth codenamed "Tianlan," forcing him to come out of seclusion to handle related matters. Although this "Tianlan" possessed no cultivation, there was an inexplicable sense of hidden power about him, especially since he was personally escorted by Envoy Xuan Yun, indicating he was no ordinary individual. Steadying his mind, he replied: "Indeed, your current identity is Ouyang Haotian. This place is the Purple Micro Star, and the middle-aged man just now is named Ouyang Yue, who is the father of this identity. This man has been a traveling merchant for many years, controlling one-third of the supply of daily necessities for the disciples of the Tianyi Sect. Of course, this is a form of vassalage, not for profit; his main industry is the salt fields of the East China Sea.

The physician turned and clasped his fists, saying: "Your Excellency Tianlan, you may speak now. I am your escort."

Haha, that girl Han Qianxue actually understands the art of coercive buying. One hundred thousand is already worth the value; this transaction is quite advantageous. Tian Maoping was in a great mood. What is most lacking right now? What is lacking is the Yuan Point value, which is directly linked to one's cultivation. Although it does not help much in breaking through bottlenecks, the more one has at the initial foundation stage and in the subsequent consolidation of cultivation, the better. With Ouyang Haotian's excellent identity as a cover, this unexpected windfall is not likely to raise suspicions from others. What is lacking is the Yuan Point value, which is directly linked to one's cultivation. Although it does not help much in breaking through bottlenecks, the more one has at the initial foundation stage and in the subsequent consolidation of cultivation, the better. With Ouyang Haotian's excellent identity as a cover, this unexpected windfall is not likely to raise suspicions from others.

Mr. Ouyang, a middle-aged man, felt a sudden intensity in his gaze. He understood that individuals with certain skills often have strong tempers, and he had indeed acted too eagerly, possibly interrupting the healing process. He slightly bowed to show respect and earnestly said: "The hearts of parents are universal; I hope the physician will not take offense. We shall leave now"

Hurry up, bring five more bowls of beef noodles and seven jin of fine braised pork. Damn it, which restaurant sent these vegetarian dishes? Don't they know our young master prefers meat? Don't take them inside to get scolded; let the servants eat them later! The deputy steward, Li Fu, is responsible for Ouyang Haotian's meals and has been extremely busy these past few days, even being called up at night to arrange meals. If it weren't for the high salary provided by the Ouyang residence, the head chef would have resigned long ago. Fortunately, the young master is understanding and does not demand exquisite meals at every meal; as long as he can eat enough to replenish his energy, that is sufficient. Even so, by noon, the kitchen staff is still insufficient, and it is necessary to order additional meals from the restaurants in the city just to barely manage. After being a steward for so many years, he has never dealt with a dining crisis like this. He wonders how one person can eat so much.

Soon, the outside was filled with a cacophony of voices, as if many people had arrived. Tian Maoping chose to observe the situation quietly. What brought him immense joy was that his body did not feel weak; with a slight movement of his arms, he could be completely certain that he had escaped the original frail state. Had the Tianmo Sect's treatment been successful? Had his long-cherished wish been realized?

They talked for a full six hours, and the clock in the room chimed. Physician Chunyu hurriedly lifted the sound barrier technique; he was about to leave to continue his carefree days playing "Dark Chess". Over the next two years, he would gradually fade from people's sight or change his appearance to seek another identity to continue living on Ziwei Star. He thought to himself: "This 'Tianlan' youth is meticulous in thought, possesses unique insight, and his identity is elusive. He no longer requires assistance from non-professionals, especially since the place he is going to is not accessible to ordinary people. This is a farewell."

The second lady walked over from the courtyard, saying softly: "Haotian is currently bathing, and this child may be afraid of looking unsightly with burn marks, which is why he has dismissed all the servants."

Fortunately, tonight I will be able to remove this disguise. I am not worried about being exposed; I just wonder what I will look like after the facial surgery designed to resemble Ouyang Haotian. I hope I won't look too unattractive. Lost in these thoughts, I fell into a deep sleep, completely indifferent to the disdainful glances of the servants.

Under the light, a tall figure gradually approached; it was a graceful young man, with a face like jade, eyes like bright stars, and pearly white teeth. His long hair flowed freely, exuding a hint of unruliness. Anyone who beheld him would be filled with admiration for the strikingly elegant young master, Ouyang Haotian

Is the Tianyi Gate supplier not supposed to arrange for someone from an ordinary family? Where has Ouyang Haotian gone, who was originally lying here? Such a residence must have experts stationed; how can you change someone's offspring and employ sound barrier techniques without fearing detection? Furthermore, this change in identity and appearance is too significant; how can it be concealed?

Lord Xuan Yun is extremely interested in the package entrusted to him by the young master, especially the two low-tier magical artifacts known as Sound Killers. It would be a waste to use those as tuning forks; if they were refined with the Divine Fire of Qian Tian into bracelets, they would have their own unique uses. The points for the Yuan Nucleus in the jade disc can be considered as a deposit paid in advance for the books. The materials have already been taken. If the young master finds it unprofitable, he can still seek a price increase from Lord at the Greedy Wolf Star's Service Hall.

Mr. Ouyang, it would be best for you and your esteemed wife to...

Hehe, no, after a while, I will definitely return you a healthy young master, it's just that...

Tian Maoping was not surprised by Doctor Chunyu's methods; rather, he felt that the time left for himself was even more limited. Although he was unaware of the specific date for the Tianyi Sect's grand competition, advancing to the top ten disciples in less than two years was no easy feat. It was practically an impossible task. He wondered what advantages other members sent by the Tianmo Sect might possess. There were certainly some complex conflicts of interest among the upper echelons of the demonic path involved in this matter.

Hehe, young master, you jest. If it weren't for the striking resemblance between you two and the extraordinary circumstances, I would not dare to take such a great risk. You must understand that Xuan Yun sent you here just in time, as the Tian Yi Sect is currently holding its grand five-year selection of disciples. However, your body is still in recovery; even if you awaken, it would not be suitable for you to participate in the selection. Therefore, I made a decisive decision to administer medication, both to aid in your physical recovery and to facilitate the substitution. The real Ouyang Haotian is indeed unfortunate; when I visited the manor for a diagnosis two months ago, he was barely clinging to life. If it weren't for Ouyang Yue providing him with precious medicines to prolong his life, he would have long since perished. Fortunately, the second madam did not harm him again; otherwise, we would have had no part in this matter. Seeing that child in pain, I could only send him on his way.

What on earth is going on? Tian Maoping's thoughts were somewhat tangled as he tried hard to recall what Han Qianxue had said. He was supposed to be on Ziwai Star and to enter the second major sect of the righteous path, "Tianyi Sect." He aimed to stand out in the sect competition after two years of hard work and achieve a top ten ranking. But where exactly was he now?

Physician Chunyu sighed: "You have been here for two months and eight days. Additionally, Ouyang Haotian has an older brother, Ouyang Beichen, who is also the son of the second madam, and he is practicing at the Tianyi Sect"

"Yes, my lord." A large crowd of people in the room dispersed on their own, leaving only a middle-aged beauty whose gaze remained fixed on the sickbed.

Tian Maoping, with his broad knowledge, naturally discerned that this room had been set up with soundproofing techniques. He observed Doctor Chunyu, an ordinary person who would pass unnoticed in a crowd. It is precisely such individuals who require extra caution; their lack of brilliance can be more striking than brilliance itself. The only flaw was the subtle sense of detachment in his eyes, a result of a long-standing vigilance towards the surrounding world. He raised his head and asked淡淡: "My current identity is Ouyang Haotian, and I have been lying in a hospital bed for three years. Please tell me the specific situation. Is this Ziwei Star?"

Are we going out as well? Haotian won't have any aftereffects, will he? The middle-aged man became somewhat anxious

This sleep lasted until the time of the lanterns being lit, unexpectedly not waking up from hunger as in the past

Tian Maoping listened attentively to every word, as this was extremely important to him. Knowing oneself and knowing the enemy ensures victory in every battle; if one cannot even grasp the environment they are in, then achieving anything is out of the question

It is worth mentioning that before leaving, Physician Chunyu intended to leave behind a silver needle for identifying poisons to prevent harm from malicious individuals, but this was politely declined. This was because during Tian Maoping's encounter with the greedy wolf star in the Empty City of Yipin Zhai, Han Qianxue, in order to successfully perform the Golden Needle to Remove the Yuan technique, underwent a process of marrow cleansing with a concoction containing demonic poison. The pain from that experience is something she will never forget in this lifetime, yet the benefits are also self-evident. Her current constitution exhibits an extremely strong resistance to poison; unless faced with one of the rarest and most peculiar poisons in the world, she cannot be harmed. Han Qianxue, in order to successfully perform the Golden Needle to Remove the Yuan technique, underwent a process of marrow cleansing with a concoction containing demonic poison. The pain from that experience is something she will never forget in this lifetime, yet the benefits are also self-evident. Her current constitution exhibits an extremely strong resistance to poison; unless faced with one of the rarest and most peculiar poisons in the world, she cannot be harmed.

Alright, I am merely puzzled about this matter and will pay attention to it later. You keep mentioning 'Second Madam'; could it be that there is also a First Madam in the household

Five days later, news spread from the Ouyang residence that Ouyang Haotian, the young master who had been plagued by fire poison for three years and had been bedridden, had been cured by a divine physician. At the same time, rumors circulated that this young master had become a glutton, consuming seven meals a day, each capable of devouring five head of cattle, three sheep, and one large fat pig. Although the external reports were somewhat exaggerated, they were not entirely unfounded. Tian Maoping had indeed become a 'glutton,' and to call him merely a glutton was somewhat inaccurate; it would be more appropriate to describe him as a 'rice vat' or a 'voracious eater,' as Physician Chunyu had previously advised that the best way to recover health was through eating.

The young master lay down lazily, the bandage on his head slightly loosened, revealing his fair and rosy skin

Young master, you may not be aware that Ouyang Yue's first wife passed away over twenty years ago without leaving any offspring. Ouyang Yue is quite sentimental; he has always maintained an altar in his home to honor the late lady. Even if he were to remarry, he would still nominally respect his deceased wife by referring to the new wife as the second lady.

Ouyang Yue made every effort to persuade him to stay, but Dr. Chunyu had already made up his mind to leave. He stated clearly that the young master’s illness had been completely cured, and what remained was careful recuperation, including a diet rich in meat. Staying would be of no use; it would be better to take the reward and leave as soon as possible. When Ouyang Yue visited the imposter son, he found that, apart from a hoarse voice and vacant eyes, the boy could awkwardly call him 'father.' The guilt that had lingered in his heart for three years was suddenly alleviated by more than half. In his joy, he generously added an extra five thousand Nayan as a reward, truly a display of extravagance.

The physician's words always seem hesitant, leaving the middle-aged person feeling heavy-hearted: "What is it? Chunyu, please speak quickly; there should be no concealment regarding Haotian's condition.

As they were speaking, a maid shouted: "The young master has come out, quickly look, oh my, oh my..." Below, there was a series of gasps.

Upon examining the Nayuanyu Bi, the displayed value astonishingly read "100,000". I could hardly believe my eyes, as I had only infused 1,900 points before coming here, which was all my savings. The sudden increase in points clearly indicated that someone had exchanged a significant amount later on. One hundred thousand is the optimal storage limit for the Nayuanyu Bi, a considerable sum indeed. I inquired, "What message did Xuan Yunshi ask you to convey?"

Several figures entered from outside, and the maid hurriedly brightened the lights in the room. At that moment, a middle-aged man with a prominent nose rushed to the bedside, embracing Tian Maoping with overwhelming joy, saying: "My son, my son, you have finally awakened. Three years, a full three years, I have sought out renowned doctors from all over the world, yet none could cure you, and I feel ashamed before your beloved! Fortunately, heaven has favored our Ouyang family, sending us the divine physician Chunyu, whose miraculous skills have brought you back to life. I must express my gratitude to him"

Physician Chunyu took out the Nayuanyu Bi from the medicine chest and handed it over: "This belongs to the young master. Lord Xuan Yun ordered me to deliver it, and there is another message I was entrusted to convey."

Tian Maoping is not accustomed to being attended to by maids while bathing and changing clothes. The family motto of the Tian family warns that "luxury is a great enemy." Although the prominent young masters in the household do not share this view, once they embark on the path of cultivation, they must indeed confront the difficulties of resource scarcity. Thus, it is only natural for him to develop the habit of adhering to this family precept.

At this moment, Tian Maoping was comfortably seated in a reclining chair, voraciously devouring food with abandon. Before him was the largest Eight Immortals table in the residence, laden with bowls and dishes piled high like a small mountain, while a dozen or so maidservants attended to him, almost overwhelmed by the task. After a long while, the deafening sound of belching, mingled with the aromas of scallions, ginger, and garlic, filled the grand hall. Everyone let out a sigh of relief; the intense dining session had finally come to an end, though this was merely a pause, as there was still the afternoon tea to prepare for.

Physician Chunyu was greatly startled; even a fool could discern that the code name "Tianlan" referred to the envoy Xuan Yun. Not only did he call out the envoy's name, but he also referred to her as "girl." This young gentleman's status must be exceedingly esteemed. Considering the previous swift actions of the righteous path in rooting out the demonic infiltrators, there must be many hidden circumstances involved, and it is likely that both sides are about to make significant moves. In fact, he had overestimated Tian Maoping; this young master is not inexperienced at all, being already thirty-two years old. Ten years ago, he had fought against the imperial demon beasts on the Taiyin Star battlefield. It is quite normal for him to refer to Han Qianxue as "girl" due to his temperament. Returning to the earlier point, even if Han Qianxue were to demand the tuning fork without reason, he would be more than willing to present it, as he is indebted to her for a significant life-saving grace. Now that the one hundred thousand points of Na Yuan have arrived, it is akin to sending charcoal in the snow, and out of gratitude, he has unconsciously grown closer to her.

Indeed, one cannot help but admire the composure displayed by the envoy sent by the Grand Teacher Xuan Yun, especially in such an unfamiliar environment! In fact, three years ago, I was invited by Ouyang Yue to his residence to treat the young master’s illness. Unfortunately, Ouyang Haotian suffered from severe burns, with the fire poison affecting his heart. The child's mother is a concubine; although she enjoys certain favors, her husband is often away from home, and she endures all kinds of humiliation without daring to speak out, as the authority in the household is entirely in the hands of the Second Madam, the woman who just stood by the bed. This woman is quite formidable; she is the granddaughter of a certain elder from the Tianyi Sect. It is precisely due to her connections that Ouyang Yue has been able to thrive over the past twenty years, which is why no one dares to offend the 'Second Madam.' I suspect that the fire incident involving Ouyang Haotian and his mother back then was orchestrated by this venomous woman.

Subsequently, the two individuals repeatedly deliberated on the next course of action within the room. Although Ouyang Haotian's body had been cremated, Dr. Chunyu had left behind a detailed facial contour model. Due to Tian Maoping's severe physical deterioration, he appeared emaciated, with atrophied facial muscles, resulting in little noticeable difference. However, some minor surgical procedures for facial alteration were still necessary. The changes would not be significant, and the surgeries had been gradually completed over the past two months of treatment, primarily focusing on smoothing out certain contours and adding a touch of softness. It was said that Ouyang Haotian had been very "handsome" three years ago, and even at the age of thirteen, he was praised by everyone in the household.

Then the middle-aged American woman suddenly spoke: "Could it be that Haotian no longer recognizes his parents? What shall we do then?" The middle-aged man with a big nose also changed his expression, his voice becoming three parts rougher: "No way, son, quickly call out to your father."

Ouyang Yue returned home with a cheerful smile, feeling invigorated by the joyful occasion. After three years, his youngest son had finally recovered. He had declined all evening engagements and returned home from the business hall, eager to see if the renowned physician Chunyu could indeed heal even the scars from burns as claimed. As soon as he stepped into the hall, he called out: "Where is my son? Quickly summon him; today I can finally see my son's appearance!"

Feeling warm all over makes one feel soft to the core. How long has it been since I felt this comfortable? Slowly sitting up, I find myself wrapped in bandages, even my head is not spared, tightly bound in layers. Only my eyes, mouth, and nostrils are left exposed, with a strong scent of herbal medicine. Where is this?

Tian Maoping felt a bit surprised, as this middle-aged man with a prominent nose exhibited no signs of pretense or artifice; it seemed to be a genuine expression of heartfelt emotion. If he were indeed an undercover agent of the Heavenly Demon Sect, he would undoubtedly belong to the category of skilled actors. He scanned his surroundings somewhat numbly, his mind slightly tense, sensing the presence of hostility. There was a middle-aged beauty, exuding an air of elegance, dressed splendidly with her hair styled in a cloud-like fashion and adorned with a blue hairpin. However, he found her gaze extremely unappealing; it was very cold and venomous, akin to that of a scorpion. He scanned his surroundings somewhat numbly, his mind slightly tense, sensing the presence of hostility. There was a middle-aged beauty, exuding an air of elegance, dressed splendidly with her hair styled in a cloud-like fashion and adorned with a blue hairpin. However, he found her gaze extremely unappealing; it was very cold and venomous, akin to that of a scorpion.

In a state of confusion, a sudden scream pierced the air: "Ah! ... clang ..." A figure flashed by the doorway, and there was a spilled basin of water on the ground. A woman, in a state of panic, shouted: "Quick, someone come! Hurry! The young master has awakened! Go tell the master and the second madam! Our young master has woken up! Physician Chunyu truly has remarkable foresight"

Tian Maoping leaned sideways against the large warm pillow, tearing a bit of the bandage on his hand. His skin was pale yet full of vitality. Only those who have not experienced despair and torment cannot comprehend the joy of rebirth. The body is, in fact, a form of capital, a cornerstone of success. After listening to the reasonable explanation, he nodded slightly: "Isn't Mr. Chunyu trying to take advantage of him? Moreover, he executed it remarkably well; it must have taken considerable effort to arrange my transfer"

In recent days, Tian Maoping has been following a rigorous regimen of eating and sleeping, adhering to a standard of cultivation. At the age of sixteen, he became the fifth member of the Tian family, a feat achieved through unwavering perseverance and spirit. Perhaps due to the thickening of gastric juices after the cleansing of his marrow, or perhaps because this body urgently requires external nutrients, his demand for food has been exceptionally high. Fortunately, effort always yields rewards; his recovery speed surpasses the ordinary, and his strength has long exceeded that of an average person. He can easily crush a bronze wine vessel with one hand, and his skin's elasticity is remarkably good, almost comparable to that of a newly initiated disciple from a prestigious school of cultivation. He mused, "Indeed, it is no small feat that only three individuals from the Heavenly Demon Sect have passed through the gateway."

Suddenly, someone behind lightly coughed and said, "Mr. Ouyang, it is fortunate that your young master has awakened. It is not in vain that I, as a physician, have traversed the vast lands in search of miraculous herbs. However, you should not act this way. The young master has just begun to recover; his body is still very weak and cannot withstand even the slightest shock. He has been bedridden for three years, and his consciousness has long been obscured. Please allow me to provide him with treatment for half a day, and I will come to visit again later."

The middle-aged American woman seemed to want to ask something more, but after glancing at the "dull" gaze of Tian Maoping, she ultimately restrained herself and went out with her husband. Doctor Chunyu closed the door behind him, took out six exquisite small wine cups from his medical kit, filled them with liquid from a kettle, and then gently placed them around the room. He raised two fingers and blew forcefully. The walls appeared to twist, as if covered in steam, truly astonishing to behold. Doctor Chunyu closed the door behind him, took out six exquisite small wine cups from his medical kit, filled them with liquid from a kettle, and then gently placed them around the room. He raised two fingers and blew forcefully. The walls appeared to twist, as if covered in steam, truly astonishing to behold

Tian Maoping smiled, although his head was still wrapped in bandages, the corners of his mouth slightly lifted: "Is there an older brother? It might be somewhat interesting. I cannot understand why the second madam is so intent on eliminating Ouyang Haotian. Is she afraid of dividing the inheritance? With the status of being the granddaughter of an elder from the Tianyi Sect, she should not be lacking in money. Then she must have ulterior motives. Doctor Chunyu, do you know the reason behind this?"

Physician Chunyu continued his discourse: "This Ouyang Yue is not to be underestimated. The death of his concubine must have raised suspicions in his heart, yet he has shown no signs of it, indicating a deep cunning. The reason there are no skilled fighters in his household is that this city is the core of the Tianyi Sect's influence, where disturbances are rare. Furthermore, the Ouyang family has a profound background, well-known to all. On the surface, Ouyang Yue is benevolent and charitable, accumulating a reputation for kindness over time; who would dare to covet his interests?" The reason there are no skilled fighters in his household is that this city is the core of the Tianyi Sect's influence, where disturbances are rare. Furthermore, the Ouyang family has a profound background, well-known to all. On the surface, Ouyang Yue is benevolent and charitable, accumulating a reputation for kindness over time; who would dare to covet his interests?