https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-231-Hai-Lao-Smoking-A-Familiar-Face-in-a-Foreign-Land-Part-2-/12964273/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-232-Ice-Emperor-Hai-Dongpo-Reborn-Lin-Fan-Part-2-/12964281/
Chapter 232: Ice Emperor Hai Dongpo! Reborn Lin Fan? (Part 1)
Chapter 232: Ice Emperor Hai Dongpo! Reborn Lin Fan? (Part 1)
"Oh?"
Liu Xun's mind raced, "Could it be... the Tower of Heavenly Mechanisms?"
"I did send someone to inquire at the Tower, but they refused to make a prediction, saying that it involves the Hai family and the Heaven-Willed Individual."
"!"
Liu Xun was perplexed, "The Heaven-Willed Individual..."
"Then this journey might be extremely dangerous."
"Uncle Lin, you must not be careless!"
"I'm not one to be careless." Lin Fan smiled, "Here, I'll treat you to some delicious food, prepared by a Ninth Stage expert himself."
"As for the Hai family, just pretend you know nothing."
He took out the dog meat packed by San Dian, and soon, Liu Xun was 'captivated'.
Lin Fan wasn't surprised at all that the Hai family was connected to the Heaven-Willed Individual.
After all...
Xiao Ling'er, the Heaven-Willed Individual, was about to have a connection with the Hai family.
Can't predict it? Good!
Lin Fan even had the urge to secretly say, 'Just wait and see, you'll be sending Hai Lao cigarettes soon!'
However, it was best to remain low-key for now. He couldn't be certain that the 'Number One' of the Hai family was indeed Hai Lao, so it was best not to speak rashly and risk embarrassment.
"By the way..."
"Who is the strongest member of the Hai family at present, the current Ninth Stage expert?"
"Does he have a renowned title?"
"His name is Hai Dongpo, I think," Liu Xun recalled.
Lin Fan: "(ˉ▽￣～)..."
"He's known as the Ice Emperor due to his innate Ice Saint Body and the cultivation of an ice-attributed Emperor Scripture. He made a name for himself years ago."
"But he hasn't appeared in many years, and it's unclear if he has a new title now."
"As expected, I can't be of much help."
Liu Xun smiled bitterly.
Lin Fan slapped his thigh and almost laughed out loud.
"You've helped me tremendously!"
Hai Dongpo?!
Although the names are different, the Ice Emperor...
You said you're not Hai Lao?!
"Huh?"
Liu Xun was filled with question marks, scratching his head, "How did I help?"
"You've helped me so much, but I won't overstay my welcome. If anyone from the Hai family comes looking for you, just tell them about my 'problem' truthfully. Don't worry about me being exposed."
"Just ensure your own safety."
"Also..."
Lin Fan's expression turned serious, "Regarding the trouble you mentioned, if you don't want to talk about it, I won't ask. But if you need help, don't hesitate."
"Contact me immediately, and I'll help if I can."
"After all these years of cooperation, we're like family. Especially since you insist on calling me Uncle Lin."
"Okay."
Liu Xun smiled, "I will!"
"It shouldn't be a big problem."
"That's good. In any case, if you can't handle it, don't force it. Call me right away!" Lin Fan instructed.
After that, they parted ways, and Lin Fan left the Liu family shop, continuing to wander the streets.
"Speaking of which, although I'm already over 80% certain that this journey is the plot development of Yan Di meeting 'Hai Lao', I can't be careless."
One must always be cautious.
In 'Yan Di', Xiao Huo Huo only gained Hai Lao's recognition and investment after solving his problems.
I can't just bring Xiao Ling'er to his door and say, 'Hai Lao, this is the Yan Di template, your future depends on her,' right?
That would be insane.
"I wonder what trouble the Hai family, or Hai Dongpo, is facing."
He pondered for a moment.
At that moment, the Hai family began investigating Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er.
Soon, the identities and related intelligence of Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er were laid out before the Hai family.
The Third Elder, Hai Shaofeng, was in charge of handling this matter.
Brows furrowed as he studied the intelligence in his hand.
"The Moon Embrace Sect's Sect Master, Lin Fan, and his top disciple, Xiao Ling'er."
He continued to review the intelligence.
Over the years, the Moon Embrace Sect had gone from being on the brink of collapse to Lin Fan's takeover, followed by annual battles, the Moon Embrace Sect's 'abnormal' strength increase, the battle with the Ri Yue Immortal Dynasty, and the recent merger of the Fire Virtue Sect into the Moon Embrace Sect...
"Interesting."
"This Lin Fan is quite capable. He managed to bring a sect on the verge of destruction to this level in a short time."
"And Xiao Ling'er is extraordinary. She killed an Eighth Stage expert with her Sixth Stage cultivation and even fought a temporary Ninth Stage expert?"
His eyes narrowed again.
Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er, as master and disciple, warranted his attention!
After all, if Xiao Ling'er could kill other Eighth Stage experts, she might be able to defeat him too.
However, this was the Hai family's territory, and he didn't believe Xiao Ling'er could break in and defeat him. He also didn't think she would do such a thing, so he merely gave them his attention.
"Speaking of which, the Hai family and the Moon Embrace Sect have no grudges. Before this, there was no connection, except for the Liu family, who cooperates with the Moon Embrace Sect and has a few shops in Hai territory. But even that's not much of a connection."
"Yet, these master and disciple suddenly arrived, asking about the Hai family's secrets..."
He pondered for a moment and concluded, "Is it for the Crystal Flame?"
He then answered his own question, "Most likely."
"Xiao Ling'er is an exceptional pill concoctor. For pill concoctors, nothing is more attractive than exotic flames, especially the Crystal Flame, ranked first on the Exotic Flame List."
Hai Shaofeng wasn't surprised by this; it wasn't unusual.
The Crystal Flame's presence in the Hai family wasn't a secret.
Over the years, countless alchemists and artificers have come to the Hai family, some trying to coerce or tempt, others crying and pleading for an exchange...
The Hai family has long been accustomed to such occurrences.
"It's no surprise that the two of you, master and disciple, have come. But what's interesting is that you're making such a public spectacle to uncover our family's secrets..."
"Even those outside are unaware, and it's hard to ignore this move."
He pondered.
The current head of the family, Hai Tianren, was passing by with his eldest daughter, Hai Danping. Seeing Hai Shaofeng's furrowed brows, she couldn't help but ask, "Third Uncle, why the worried look?"
"It's nothing, just a bit of confusion."
Hai Shaofeng shook his head slightly and shared his doubts about Lin Fan and his disciple, Xiao Ling'er.
"Oh?"
Hai Tianren nodded, "In that case, he must be intentionally trying to draw our attention."
"I think so too," Hai Shaofeng nodded. "However, I'm not sure what they're up to. If it's just about the Crystal Flame, they shouldn't be so high-profile."
"After all, this will only cause resentment from our clan."
Hai Danping's fiery red hair flowed down her back. Listening to the conversation between her father and uncle, she couldn't help but sigh, "Could it be that they simply want to attract our attention?"
"After all, before this, the Moon Embrace Sect had no connection with the Hai family. If they came directly to ask for the Crystal Flame, it's unlikely they'd succeed, and they'd be 'escorted out' even before meeting a core clan member."
"So, by attracting our attention, they will indeed make our clan resentful, but it's also possible that they'll get to meet a core member."
"A counterintuitive approach, perhaps?"
"That's a possibility." Hai Tianren agreed. "Danping's words make sense, but there's a prerequisite: this master and disciple must have the confidence that even after causing resentment in our clan, they can still make us hand over the Crystal Flame."
"Otherwise, it would be a case of being too clever for one's own good."
"Interesting."
Hai Shaofeng realized and smiled, "Indeed, this Lin Fan is quite mysterious. No wonder he could turn the situation around for the Moon Embrace Sect and grow at an astonishing rate in a short time."
"However, it seems we can confirm that their goal is the Crystal Flame. Let's not meet with them."
"Let them go and inquire."
"After all, our clan's secrets are unknown to outsiders."
"No!"
Hai Tianren objected, "According to the information you just shared, Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er are extraordinary individuals. Since they have such confidence, why not give them a chance?"
"These two, we should meet. Third Uncle, you should go and see them yourself."
"See what they're up to, and you can decide how to respond afterward."
"Alright." Hai Shaofeng agreed.
"Then let's see what tricks they have up their sleeves!"
"..."
...
"Lin Zongzhu."
"Our Elder invites you for a chat."
Lin Fan was leisurely pretending to seek information when a Hai family member approached, bowed to him, and extended an invitation.
"Okay."
Lin Fan nodded, "Please lead the way."
There was no need to pretend; the other party had sent someone to invite him, so it was time to show his hand.
Otherwise, it would genuinely damage the good impression.
Seeing Lin Fan's straightforwardness, the Hai family member was surprised but still nodded and led the way, "Please."
"Thank you."
Lin Fan followed and smiled, "Has someone invited my incompetent disciple as well?"
The Hai family member nodded, "Yes, Lin Zongzhu, rest assured."
At the same time, he wanted to complain.
Your incompetent disciple, huh?
Who's your disciple? Xiao Ling'er!
Even in the Northeast Domain, we've heard of her fame. She's the contemporary genius who, in the battle at the Ri Yue Immortal Dynasty, crossed two major realms to slay an elder!
In our Hai family, probably only the first sequence could rival her!
Yet you call her an incompetent disciple?
So, we're just roadside weeds?
The Hai family member felt bitter.
Even though Lin Fan's words were humble, they couldn't help but sigh.
...
Outside the Hai family's main gate.
Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er reunited.
"Master."
"Let's go and visit the Hai family's expert. Have you prepared the gift?"
Lin Fan smiled and spoke.
"Master, rest assured. It's all prepared," Xiao Ling'er assured with a smile.
The first step of their plan was successful!
Of course, they had to prepare a gift. This visit was a request for a favor, and they couldn't afford to offend. So, they ensured the formalities were in order.
Many gifts, no harm.
They didn't mind others hearing their conversation.
"Haha!"
"Lin Zongzhu, you're too kind. We don't need gifts for a visit."
Hai Shaofeng was very accommodating and personally greeted them at the door.
"It's only right to bring a gift when visiting," Lin Fan said, bowing.
"Hai Shaofeng, Hai family's third elder."
"Please, come in."
Hai Shaofeng smiled, showing no dissatisfaction.
Xiao Ling'er stepped forward, offering the gift with both hands.
"You're too kind."
Hai Shaofeng smiled and took it.
Taking a gift made it hard to refuse?
He didn't care about that.
Moreover, they had pressured the Hai family to meet, so they were already at fault. This gift was a token of apology!
But when he took the gift and lightly scanned it with his eyes, his body trembled, and his pupils contracted sharply!
"Eight-grade Voidbreaker Pills, nine of them?!"
The Voidbreaker Pill was an eighth-grade pill, the 'best companion' for eighth-realm cultivators.
But an eight-grade Voidbreaker Pill was already a rare treasure, like a phoenix feather or a unicorn horn.
At least before this, Hai Shaofeng had never tasted it!
He had barely even tasted a few of the seventh-grade Voidbreaker Pills.
And now, nine of the eighth-grade pills, their value...
Hai Shaofeng roughly estimated, and his mouth twitched.
The value...
Mainly, they were priceless, and he couldn't buy them!
The higher the quality, the more astonishing the effects, and the lower the toxicity. The eighth-grade pills, almost never produced any resistance, and were absolutely the best companions for cultivation~!
The best? That would naturally be the ninth-grade!
Damn!
Now, the problem was, he had indeed become short-handed when it came to taking others' things.
Making up for past 'mistakes'? If that little incident counts as a mistake, then so be it! Pfft!
The current situation is, I took so many good things from them, how... can I return the favor?
I can't accept it, right?
Yes, he absolutely couldn't accept it.
Otherwise, when discussing matters later, how could he be firm? He wouldn't dare to open his mouth to negotiate?
Hmm, I can't accept it!!!
Hai Shaofeng kept telling himself in his heart that he couldn't accept it.
But for some reason.
This hand...
It's like it won't listen, and before he knew it, the jade bottle was sealed again, and carefully placed into his storage ring.
Huh?!
Hai Shaofeng, why did you accept it?!
We said we can't accept it!
Taking others' things...
Don't you understand?
In his mind, Hai Shaofeng was frantically 'refusing', and even 'angrily scolding' himself.
But it was useless.
His body simply wouldn't listen~
In the end, Hai Shaofeng could only sigh inwardly: "Sigh, don't blame me for not being clear-headed, it's just that these pills are too fragrant~!"
All this happened in the blink of an eye.
It seemed slow.
But Hai Shaofeng had only taken a glance before immediately putting away the pills, and then revealing a brilliant smile: "Oh my, you're too kind, far too kind."
"Quick, come in, let's sit down and chat slowly."
'Little Seven' was startled, and then said: "Yes, Third Elder, but... which kind of tea leaves should I pick?"
"The good kind, or..."
Hai Shaofeng was stunned and glared.
"Of course, the best kind!!!"
How can you expect people to know if you don't tell them?
Little Seven shrank her neck and slipped away.
Hai Shaofeng turned back and smiled awkwardly: "The young ones don't understand, please excuse them."
"Not at all, this Little Seven is so pure and adorable, so innocent." Lin Fan also chatted happily.
Xiao Ling'er, on the other hand, secretly sneered.
Hai Shaofeng's change in attitude before and after was too obvious.
No wonder they say that being polite doesn't hurt.
Noticing Xiao Ling'er sneering.
Hai Shaofeng, however, wasn't annoyed. Instead, he showed her a big smile, his mouth almost twisting with laughter.
Overly talented in pill refining?
The rumors are true!
The rumors are indeed true! If these pills were refined by her, where is the talk of overly talented?
This is clearly already at the level of a Grand Master of the Dao of Pills!
Moreover, having just received their precious items, how could he not greet them with a smile?
Huh? She seems to be laughing at me? Pfft!
She's clearly thinking of something happy!
Moreover, even if she's laughing at me, what of it?
As it should be~
I'm also happy~
Hai Shaofeng thought, feeling great.
Soon, the scent of tea filled the secret chamber.
After Little Seven had served tea and water, Hai Shaofeng smiled and said: "Lin Clan Leader, Young Master, come, taste this tea."
Lin Fan and Xiao Ling'er looked at each other, blinking lightly.
In their teacups, there was just a single green leaf.
Fresh and vibrant, it was indeed freshly plucked from the tree.
But at first glance, the tea leaf resembled jade.
After being brewed in the spirit spring water, mysterious Dao patterns even appeared in the tea, making it extraordinary.
"This tea is extraordinary, we must savor it!"
Lin Fan spoke.
Since they were so serious, they naturally had to give them face.
Xiao Ling'er also nodded and picked up her teacup.
She took a sip...
Instantly, her heart was refreshed and uplifted.
The refreshing taste made them both feel at ease, but at the same time, their expressions changed.
Those 'Dao patterns' seemed to automatically enter their bodies!
However, there were no adverse effects, and instead, their thoughts became more agile and clear. Simultaneously, some originally difficult-to-understand areas also suddenly had new insights!
After drinking this cup of tea, they would likely gain insights equivalent to a month of deep meditation!
"This is?!"
The master and disciple looked at each other, both thinking of the same thing.
"Enlightenment Tea?!"
"Lin Clan Leader and Young Master, you are."
Hai Shaofeng smiled: "But unfortunately, it's only related to the Enlightenment Tea Tree."
"Enlightenment Tea is a heavenly elixir for cultivators. It's said that a single leaf can grant insight into a Dao principle. My tea, however, falls short of that."
"It was a chance encounter where I obtained a small section of an Enlightenment Tea Tree, which I then combined with other tea trees using a special secret method. After cultivating for tens of thousands of years, a new tea tree finally grew."
"It has some of the effects of Enlightenment Tea, but only a small portion."
He spoke lightly, as if he was even a bit disappointed.
But his face showed great satisfaction.
"Amazing!"
Lin Fan praised, "Hai Brother, your opportunities are extraordinary, and your methods are truly astonishing."
"I'm impressed, impressed."
"Senior, you are truly amazing." Xiao Ling'er also joined in the praise.
"Haha, not at all."
Hai Shaofeng stroked his beard and laughed, "Little Seven, add some water~!"
Little Seven: "..."
She's at least the Seventh Miss, right? Why does it feel like she's suddenly become your attendant?
She secretly complained, but obediently added water and brewed a cup for herself, then happily drank it.
Hai Shaofeng noticed this, feeling a bit pained, but with guests at the door, he couldn't make a scene. He could only pretend not to see and maintain his smile.
"So, Elder Lin, you must have an important matter to discuss?"
Initially, Hai Shaofeng was planning to give Lin Fan and his disciple a hard time, making them back down on their own.
He didn't even intend to give them a chance to ask for the Crystal Flame.
But at this moment, he took the initiative to bring it up...
Hey!
What's the big deal?
Although it's impossible to give them the Crystal Flame, there's no harm in chatting about it.
(End of Chapter)
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