Chapter 146: Chapter 146: The Grand Transformation, Qian Renxue’s True Form
Chapter 146: The Grand Transformation, Qian Renxue's True Form
"Whoever's been spreading rumors about me, I swear I won't let them off if I find out."
Han Li spoke while keeping his gaze locked onto Xue Qinghe.
"You don't suspect me, do you?"
Xue Qinghe blinked innocently, pointing at himself.
"No, but you should be more mindful of your mannerisms. Xue Qinghe wouldn't make that kind of gesture in public."
Han Li gave a fake smile, casually reminding her.
Damn it. Being too familiar with someone was a double edged sword. It made it too easy to slip up with unconscious habits especially when she wasn't on guard around him.
Qian Renxue cursed inwardly and quickly resumed Xue Qinghe's usual refined and elegant demeanor.
"You should also be careful with your actions. You've only just revealed yourself, and too many people are paying attention to you."
Qian Renxue's words carried a subtle message she, too, believed Han Li would make a move on Ye LingLing.
"Relax. I won't stir up trouble. I'll be leaving soon."
"But after I'm gone, keep an eye on the Ye family. Just regular observation make sure Ning Fengzhi doesn't notice anything."
Han Li thought for a moment and decided to mention it.
"I knew it. You really have your eyes on Ye LingLing."
Qian Renxue smirked, looking like she had predicted it all along.
"We'll talk more about it tomorrow. This isn't the right place. Alright, we should catch up now, Your Highness."
Han Li wasn't interested in continuing the conversation, instead gesturing toward the girls ahead, who were waving at them from the street corner.
"Are those three coming tomorrow as well?"
Qian Renxue quickened her pace slightly, lowering her voice.
"Yeah. You might as well take the opportunity to see their strength for yourself."
Han Li hinted at something deeper.
"Fine. I'd like to see how good you are at training people."
Qian Renxue's tone was just as firm she had never accepted being weaker than others.
After nearly an hour more of shopping, their excitement had dampened slightly due to Xue Qinghe's presence. Soon, the group decided to call it a day and went their separate ways.
Dugu Yan explained to Ye LingLing that they had plans for the next day but would visit her again afterward. Then, she accompanied Han Li back to Spirit Hall.
The next morning, the group changed into travel appropriate clothing and, under Dugu Bo's escort, headed toward the agreed upon meeting place with Xue Qinghe.
When they arrived, they found that, when it came to ceremonial displays, Spirit Hall simply couldn't compete with an empire. However, their side had an officially recognized Titled Douluo escorting them, so they didn't completely lose face.
With over a hundred spirit masters acting as guards, their procession grandly set out for Xue Qinghe's estate outside the city.
Meanwhile, Han Li had already ordered his little 'son' to monitor everything closely.
Along the way, Dugu Bo left a few times to check the surroundings but soon returned each time.
Qian Renxue, on the other hand, showed no reaction Han Li had already informed her telepathically via his spirit bone.
It was just past 10 a.m. when they arrived at the estate. After stationing the guards around the perimeter, the group ventured deeper inside.
As they walked, Dugu Bo suddenly became highly alert, stepping forward to shield the group behind him. His martial soul activated instantly, and he stared ahead like an enemy was lurking nearby.
"Alright, Grandpa, put your martial soul away. They're our people."
Han Li, having already confirmed the situation through his mental link, stopped Dugu Bo.
"Enough of the pretense. You should let us see your true self now. Don't worry everyone here has sworn a Spirit Hall oath, and I've confirmed that there are no outsiders nearby."
Han Li turned to Xue Qinghe, his smirk full of amusement.
"You're right. It's time for proper introductions. Elders, you can come out as well."
Xue Qinghe called toward the back.
At the same time, a golden light enveloped her body.
As the radiance faded, a stunning woman in a flowing golden palace dress appeared before them.
Her long golden hair cascaded freely down her back, and her sharp, phoenix like eyes held a natural regal air. Her features were exquisite, her snow white skin flawless, and her presence exuded both grace and power.
Han Li took a good look at Qian Renxue. She appeared to be in her early twenties, possessing a presence that easily outshone most beauties.
"Well? What do you think? Do I look good?"
Qian Renxue asked confidently, standing tall before him.
"Mmm. Out of all the people I've met, you're definitely in the top three. Even better than I expected."
Han Li wasn't stingy with his praise.
Qian Renxue smiled slightly and extended her hand toward him.
"Let's properly introduce ourselves again. Qian Renxue."
Han Li grasped her hand lightly, gave a quick shake, and released it.
"Han Li."
At this moment, Serpent Lance Douluo and Porcupinefish Douluo emerged from behind Qian Renxue.
Meanwhile, the girls behind Han Li were left utterly speechless.
Right before their eyes, Xue Qinghe had transformed into an absolutely stunning woman and then she casually introduced herself as Qian Renxue.
The surname "Qian" immediately triggered countless thoughts.
For the past few years, they had lived in Spirit City, under the protection of the Elder Hall. Though they weren't deeply involved in its politics, they frequently encountered the Great Worshipper Qian Daoliu, who seemed particularly interested in them.
And now, Xue Qinghe who was highly respected across Tian Dou Empire turned out to be a fraud, a complete imposter.
Spirit Hall had replaced the heir to one of the continent's greatest empires, and no one had noticed.
Just… what exactly was Spirit Hall planning?
Though they had never felt any loyalty to Tian Dou, they were still stunned by this revelation.
Wait weren't they technically part of Spirit Hall now?
Never mind. Poor Tian Dou Empire.
The future ruler they had trusted so much had been a fake all along, and they hadn't suspected a thing.
All of them shared the same thought at that moment.
"Should we call you 'Young Mistress' now?"
Han Li glanced at Qian Renxue, lightheartedly breaking the silence.
"No need. Just call me by my name. Otherwise, considering Grandfather Guang Ling's lineage, I'd have to call you 'Little Martial Uncle.'"
Qian Renxue responded nonchalantly.
Her words finally snapped Han Li's group out of their shock.
Even though Qian Renxue said they didn't need to address her formally, they still bowed slightly and respectfully called her "Your Highness."
"Alright, let's go inside. Everyone should get to know each other better."
Han Li suggested as he walked toward the main hall.
"Agreed."
Qian Renxue didn't object and walked alongside him.
The rest of the group followed behind, still trying to process this bombshell revelation.
"By the way, what's your current strength?"
Qian Renxue suddenly turned toward Han Li, curious.
Qian Daoliu had mentioned in his letters that Han Li's companions had all reached the Soul King level, but he had never specified Han Li's own strength.
"Not much just a humble Rank 59 Soul King."
Han Li didn't bother hiding it. They were about to fight anyway he'd have to reveal it soon enough.
"That weak?"
Qian Renxue blurted out, momentarily disappointed. She had expected him to be stronger.
(End of Chapter)
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