Living In Another World With A Farm Chapter 8313: Love (1)

Upon hearing Zhao Hai’s explanation, Wu Hong could only offer a weary, bitter smile. "That is enough, Hao’er. Do not let this weigh on your mind. We have been pursuing those blood cloud beasts for some time now, and several of our own have already perished. Those creatures are far from simple; they are at least at the refinement realm. When you consider their innate abilities, it is only natural that you were not a match for them."

Zhao Hai remained silent for a moment before replying, "Uncle Hong, it was Junior Brother Zheng who rescued me this time, correct? My wounds seemed exceptionally severe back then. Even though I repeatedly utilized my life golden pill, it appeared to have little effect."

Wu Hong spoke with a heavy tone, "It was your Master who provided the Black Spirit vitality glue to save your life. You must exercise more caution moving forward. Had you been more vigilant, this catastrophe would have been avoided. I was told you didn't even draw your blood saber when you ventured out. Do not let that happen again. Your body is precious; you must not recklessly place yourself in peril."

A sharp glint appeared in Zhao Hai's eyes as he responded firmly, "No, Uncle Hong. This experience has only made me want to fight more. I have identified my weakness. I simply have too few opportunities for real combat. I must find ways to sharpen my experience in the future. If I don't, I will never be able to truly transform my strength into actual combat power!"

Wu Hong’s expression brightened at these words. He nodded with a look of genuine pride. "Excellent, well said. You have finally recognized your own deficiencies. Since your injuries are still healing, you must focus on your recuperation. Rest well, and if you need anything, let Zong Tong handle it. Though the boy is a bit slow, he is dedicated to your care. We shall discuss further matters once you have recovered." With that, Wu Hong signaled for Wu Zongtong to approach.

Zhao Hai glanced at Wu Zongtong and frowned slightly, but he merely nodded before closing his eyes. Wu Hong looked at Zhao Hai and gave another bitter smile. He turned to the servant and commanded, "Zong Tong, see to it that you take excellent care of Hao, do you understand?" Wu Zongtong nodded vigorously, and Wu Hong took his leave.

The original Wu Hao was an incredibly arrogant individual who treated most people with cold indifference. To maintain his cover, Zhao Hai had to mirror this personality. Because he was fundamentally different from the real Wu Hao, he had to make careful adjustments. Furthermore, as a scion of the Wu family, Wu Hao possessed a noble air. However, because the various families within the Blood Massacre Sect had been suppressed, this nobility was somewhat superficial—more like an act than true power. Zhao Hai made sure to project that specific facade.

Nevertheless, Zhao Hai had to admit that Wu Hao was a legitimate genius. Reaching the profound skill realm in just over a decade was no small feat. More importantly, he possessed a profound grasp of the eight bloody fighting styles. While he was familiar with over fifty different blade techniques, he had yet to master them all; the eight bloody fighting styles remained his most potent skill.

His version of the eight bloody fighting styles differed from Zhao Hai’s own, largely due to his weapon. Wu Hao utilized a scimitar, which required a different approach than Zhao Hai's typical blade. Despite the differences, Zhao Hai acknowledged that Wu Hao’s execution of the technique was quite impressive.

Zhao Hai remained bedridden for half a month. During his recovery, Junior Brother Zheng paid him a visit. Zhao Hai expressed his gratitude and presented him with a gift, which the junior disciple accepted with profuse thanks before departing.

Several others came to visit as well. Having accessed Wu Hao’s memories, Zhao Hai knew exactly who they were and played his part flawlessly. His primary caretaker remained Wu Zongtong, one of Wu Hao’s most devoted servants. Although the original Wu Hao looked down on him, he couldn't deny the man's absolute loyalty. Zhao Hai treated Wu Zongtong with a bit more kindness lately; after all, the servant had been tireless in his duties. Even the real Wu Hao likely would have softened his attitude after such dedicated service.

After two weeks, Zhao Hai was finally mobile. His first act was to have Wu Zongtong assist him to the courtyard of Jin Yongchang. It was evident that Jin Yongchang held Wu Hao in high regard, as he granted an audience immediately upon request. Guided by Wu Zongtong, Zhao Hai navigated to the backyard and entered the quiet room where his Master—the disciple of Bai Xin—awaited.

Zhao Hai had encountered Jin Yongchang once before while in disguise. The man appeared ordinary, yet he possessed immense strength. Zhao Hai estimated that while Jin Yongchang might not equal Lei Gang, his power was certainly on par with Lei Xuan.

Releasing Wu Zongtong’s support, Zhao Hai knelt before Jin Yongchang. "Master, I have brought shame upon you. I ask for your punishment!" From his memories, Zhao Hai knew that despite his plain looks, Jin Yongchang was a fierce individual who demanded excellence from his disciples. The rumors circulating the island regarding Wu Hao’s injury must have infuriated him, which is why Zhao Hai came to apologize before he was even fully healed.

While Wu Hao was arrogant toward others, he was deeply respectful toward his Master. This blend of talent and deference was why Jin Yongchang favored him so much.

Jin Yongchang looked down at him and asked coldly, "Do you even know where you went wrong?" He did not tell Zhao Hai to rise, a clear sign of his lingering displeasure. He despised the idea of his disciples being viewed as inferior, and this injury had been a blow to his reputation.

"Yes, Master," Zhao Hai replied firmly while remaining on his knees. "I underestimated my foe. Furthermore, my lack of real-world combat experience made my reactions sluggish." He knew that admitting his faults was the only way to appease Jin Yongchang’s anger.

Jin Yongchang nodded slowly. "Stand up. Your wounds are not yet healed; there is no need to keep kneeling." Zhao Hai complied, rising slowly. He pointedly refused Wu Zongtong’s help, knowing that showing such weakness would only further irritate his Master.

Jin Yongchang observed him and spoke, "Your Cultivation speed has been impressive, but you have lacked true testing. Sparring on the island is merely an exchange of moves; it is not the same as a life-and-death struggle. Because of this, you cannot fully manifest your strength as combat power. I am also at fault for being too protective of you over the years. Therefore, once you are recovered, you shall head to the front lines alone. You will train there for three months before returning. Do you understand?"

"I understand, Master. Rest assured, I will depart for the front lines the moment I am healed," Zhao Hai answered without hesitation. He knew that any sign of reluctance would cause Jin Yongchang to lose respect for him and ruin his future plans.

Jin Yongchang nodded again. "You have learned many blade techniques, but you have yet to infuse them with true courage. During your time at the front, you must integrate them. You must reach a point where you can wield them instinctively. Is that clear?"

"Yes, Master," Zhao Hai replied. He understood the instruction. Wu Hao knew over fifty techniques, but he couldn't transition between them fluidly. He was limited to using one set at a time, whereas Zhao Hai aimed for total continuity. Jin Yongchang wanted him to merge these disparate styles into a cohesive whole.

Jin Yongchang looked at him one last time. "Do not dwell on those blood cloud beasts. They are formidable; even we were unable to intercept them when they fled. Go now and focus on your recovery."

Zhao Hai bowed and turned to leave, with Wu Zongtong quickly stepping in to help him back to his quarters. No sooner had they returned than Wu Hong hurried into the room. Seeing Zhao Hai, he asked anxiously, "Hao’er, what did Elder Jin say?"

Wu Hong was deeply worried. If Wu Hao lost his standing with Jin Yongchang, the Wu family’s influence would plummet. As a direct disciple of Bai Xin, Jin Yongchang’s status within the Sea Alliance was immense. His favor was the family's greatest asset.

"Master has ordered me to the front lines for three months of solo training once I have recovered," Zhao Hai explained. He spoke truthfully, knowing that while this seemed like a punishment, it was actually a sign of Jin Yongchang’s investment in his growth. Wu Hong surely realized this as well, as his tension visibly eased.

Wu Hong let out a long sigh of relief. "I see. Very well, that is good news. I will make the necessary preparations. When you depart for the front, I will ensure the family provides support to keep you safe. I will not allow any harm to come to you."