The Immortal Ascension

Chapter 69: Li Feiyu and the Young Maiden

Elder Li's residence was neither luxurious nor particularly spacious—just an ordinary dwelling surrounded by a two-meter-high, half-meter-thick earthen wall that enclosed several adjacent side rooms, forming a simple courtyard. A crescent-shaped arched gate faced the path, and through the half-open wooden door, one could see many visitors inside.

Upon entering, Han Li realized the actual number of people far exceeded what he had glimpsed from outside. They gathered in small groups, whispering about Elder Li's injuries.

Han Li had long heard that Elder Li was one of the rare kind-hearted figures among the Seven Mysteries Sect's upper echelons. He seldom lost his temper with low-ranking disciples or colleagues, never vied for power within the sect, and was universally praised as a good-natured elder. Naturally, his popularity was exceptionally high. Now that something had happened to him, those of some standing—whether sincere or merely for appearances—felt obliged to visit personally or send representatives, resulting in this crowded scene.

The moment Han Li stepped in, he was recognized by those in the courtyard. Immediately, lower-ranking members like Protectors swarmed around him, clamoring to greet him.

"Good day, Divine Physician Han!" "Physician Han is here!"

...

Wave after wave of flattery poured into his ears, impossible to ignore.

Facing these enthusiastic expressions, Han Li wore an equally radiant smile, politely returning every greeting without missing a single person. Yet inwardly, he was thoroughly sick of these hollow pleasantries.

Fortunately, those of higher status—such as deputy hall masters and honored guests—maintained their dignity, merely nodding at Han Li from a distance without approaching.

Their restraint earned Han Li's silent gratitude, sparing him the trouble of entertaining more self-important figures.

Ma Rong, however, was too low-ranking to interject. He could only watch anxiously from the sidelines as Han Li endured the endless socializing, wringing his hands in frustration.

The instant Han Li finished with the last well-wisher, Ma Rong couldn't hold back any longer. He rushed forward, grabbed Han Li's arm, and dragged him toward the house. This brash move drew disapproving glances from those who had hoped to curry favor with the renowned physician.

Han Li feigned a helpless smile but was secretly relieved—this was the perfect excuse to escape the tedious crowd without offending anyone.

Thus, Han Li was unceremoniously hauled into the main hall by Ma Rong.

The room was sparsely populated, occupied only by a few family members, two elders, and Deputy Sect Leader Ma. But to Han Li's great surprise, Li Feiyu was also present.

This puzzled him greatly. As far as he knew, Li Feiyu had no connection to Elder Li. Why would he be here?

Just as these questions swirled in his mind, Han Li noticed Li Feiyu standing beside a petite young maiden with tear-streaked cheeks, whispering comforting words. His demeanor—unusually attentive and tender—was a far cry from his usual aloofness around fellow disciples or even Han Li himself. The lovestruck expression on his face was unmistakable.Watching Li Feiyu deeply entangled in the web of love, Han Li suddenly understood and couldn't help feeling both surprised and amused.

He quickly took a closer look at the girl's appearance, curious to see what kind of stunning beauty could capture a reckless outlaw like Li Feiyu.

The girl appeared to be about fifteen or sixteen years old. A jade hairpin adorned her head, and she wore a lotus-green dress that perfectly complemented her petite figure. Her jet-black hair was braided into two small pigtails hanging behind her, adding a mischievous charm to her already sweet face. However, her slightly swollen eyes now gave her a pitiful appearance, evoking an urge to embrace and comfort her.

"Tsk tsk! She's truly a genuine little beauty," Han Li marveled inwardly. He thought Li Feiyu's fall into her love trap was understandable, yet he couldn't help feeling a twinge of envy and jealousy. He wondered when he might find a confidante of his own.

Perhaps noticing Han Li's attention to the girl, Ma Rong hurried forward to introduce everyone in the room to him.

Han Li had already met Sect Leader Ma and the fair-faced Elder Qian, so he naturally stepped forward to greet them without needing further introduction.

"Greetings, Sect Leader Ma and Elder Qian!"

"Haha! Young Doctor Han has arrived!" Sect Leader Ma appeared very approachable, not putting on any airs of authority before Han Li.

"Why add 'young' to Doctor Han?" Han Li grumbled inwardly, though he kept his thoughts to himself.

Elder Qian, on the other hand, gave a cold nod, his attitude the complete opposite of Sect Leader Ma's. Han Li didn't take it to heart, knowing the elder practiced a unique Internal Skill that required absolute detachment and emotional restraint, making him equally indifferent to everyone.

Another elder, a burly man with a red face, was unfamiliar to Han Li—they had clearly never met before. His rough-skinned hands with short, thick fingers indicated he had trained in some special martial techniques.

"This is Elder Zhao, a close friend of my master. He's been overseeing the work of the Treasure Gathering Hall outside the mountains and only returned two days ago," Ma Rong introduced from the side.

Elder Zhao gave a lukewarm "Hmm" through his nose without speaking, his eyes filled with obvious doubt. Clearly, he was skeptical about the young age of the so-called "Divine Doctor Han" and questioned his medical skills.

Since Elder Zhao didn't seem particularly welcoming, Han Li saw no reason to fawn over him either. He offered a similarly indifferent greeting before moving past the man.

(Tomorrow, I'll revise the unreasonable points raised by readers, so I can only update one chapter. Apologies to all readers! I'll strive to write better—thank you for your support!)

(End of Chapter)