Chapter 148: Joint Training Exercise

A mischievous glint sparked in Wang Li's eyes. "Of course," he added with a hint of mock seriousness, "if you don't want me to touch directly, then you need to seek someone else who can precisely destroy the seal without harming your core. Although I doubt even Palace Mistress Gao Ming can..."

Before he could finish, Shi Feiyan cut him off, her voice barely a whisper. "No, Patriarch. Please... proceed as necessary."

Heat crept up her neck as she lifted the hem of her robe, revealing a sliver of her smooth midriff. "I... I trust your judgment."

Wang Li's lips curved into a satisfied smirk. He wasted no time, his hand reaching out to gently cup her exposed skin. As his warm palm made contact, a jolt of energy surged through Shi Feiyan. It wasn't pain, but a tingling sensation that sent shivers down her spine.

His touch was surprisingly gentle, yet potent. A wave of warmth radiated from his hand, spreading outwards like a soothing balm. Her entire core felt energized, almost buzzing with a newfound vitality.

But it wasn't just the energy that affected her. The nearness of Wang Li, the faint masculine scent that clung to him, all combined to send a wave of heat through her body.

Her breathing hitched, and a soft moan escaped her lips, barely audible yet undeniably present.

Unbeknownst to her, Wang Li's touch was deliberate.

He wasn't just channeling his Yang Attribute; he was also subtly infusing a sliver of his own alluring aura, arousing a dormant desire within her. Shi Feiyan, inexperienced in matters of the heart, readily succumbed to these subtle manipulations.

The process was swift. Wang Li's Yang Attribute, fueled by his enhanced cultivation, quickly zeroed in on the demonic seal. With precise strokes, he unraveled its dark energy, dismantling it piece by piece.

Finally, with a faint pop, the seal shattered, releasing a burst of sinister energy that dissipated harmlessly. Wang Li retracted his hand, his mission complete.

"It's done," he announced, his voice devoid of emotion.

Shi Feiyan collapsed onto the floor, her legs giving way beneath her. Her entire body was drenched in sweat, the remnants of the arousal lingering like a phantom touch. Gazing at Wang Li with a mixture of gratitude and a newfound yearning, she felt conflicted.

He knelt before her, his face inches away. A sly smile played on his lips. "You see, Shi Feiyan," he murmured, his voice husky and low, "touching your clothes would have sufficed. But I confess, I took a small... liberty."

Shame burned in her cheeks, yet a strange sense of thrill coursed through her. "I... I know," she stammered, her voice barely a whisper. Although anger flickered within her, it was overshadowed by a strange sense of... satisfaction.

Wang Li chuckled softly, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. He knew the effect he had on her, the subtle manipulation woven into his touch.

As they walked, their conversation flowed seamlessly.

The camp bustled with activity. Young disciples sparred, exchanging techniques and showcasing their prowess. Elders huddled in hushed discussions, strategizing their approach to the upcoming trials. The air itself vibrated with a mix of anticipation and nervous energy.

Suddenly, a booming voice cut through the chatter. It was Sect Leader Deng of the Azure Peak Sect, addressing the disciples in the entire camp. "Attention everyone! To foster camaraderie and collaboration, I propose a joint training exercise. Each sect will form a team, and the team that performs the best in a series of challenges will be rewarded handsomely!"

A wave of excitement rippled through the crowd. This unexpected announcement promised not just valuable prizes but also a chance to test their skills against worthy opponents. The once-relaxed atmosphere buzzed with a competitive fervor.

The elders of the Jade Lotus Palace, exchanging a knowing glance, stepped forward. "We accept the challenge," boomed Elder Ning Changying.

A wave of excitement washed over the male disciples of the Azure Peak Sect and Emerald Sea Palace. The prospect of participating in a joint training exercise alongside the renowned beauties of the Jade Lotus Palace was an opportunity they couldn't pass up. Visions of impressing the ladies, showcasing their prowess, and perhaps even earning a romantic favor danced in their heads.

Liu Xue, however, remained unimpressed. To her practical mind, the exercise was little more than a pointless distraction. Disgruntled, she utilized her spiritual sense to voice her concerns to Wang Li.

"What are your thoughts on this exercise, love?" she questioned.

A low chuckle resonated in her mind. "This is a terrible idea for your sect, Liu Xue," Wang Li replied. "Your numbers are far too small compared to the combined forces of the Azure Peak and Emerald Sea Palace. More importantly," he continued, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "this exercise is clearly meant for the disciples only. The elders will remain behind."

A frown etched itself on Liu Xue's face. This posed a significant disadvantage. The protective talismans issued to the Jade Lotus Palace disciples were linked to Palace Mistress Jiu Lan, who was stationed far away in the north. Without the elders present, the talismans would offer minimal protection during prolonged danger.

Conversely, the disciples of the other sects, with their camps nearby, could be quickly rescued by their leaders if the talismans were activated.

"You're right," she acknowledged, her voice laced with concern. "I need to speak with the elders and express our reservations about participating."

Wang Li's voice, however, hinted at a different approach. "Don't waste your breath, Liu Xue," he cautioned. "The elders are well aware of these risks. Their agreement likely comes with a hefty price tag, perhaps a hefty bribe offered by Sect Leader Deng and Palace Mistress Gao Ming."

Liu Xue's frown deepened, a seed of suspicion taking root. Wang Li's words, though cynical, held a certain logic.

Wang Li added, "Let's turn this situation to our advantage. This exercise is a perfect opportunity to acquire resources at a rapid pace."

A mischievous glint flickered in Liu Xue's eyes. "Intriguing. How so?"