175: The Northern Scheme and the Queen's Support

After leaving Yao Chen's alchemy room, Li Ao did not return to his own residence but walked directly to the courtyard where Medusa was temporarily staying in Starfall Pavilion.

The courtyard was serene, with several unknown flowering trees blooming delicate small flowers. Medusa was not in the room but stood quietly by the small pond in the courtyard, gazing at the few spirit fish swimming in the water. Her purple eyes held a hint of contemplation, and her exquisite profile was outlined with a breathtaking curve in the afternoon sun.

Hearing footsteps, she slightly turned her head. Seeing it was Li Ao, a faint arc naturally curved at her lips.

"Finished talking?" Her voice still carried a natural coolness, but when facing Li Ao, the icy chill had long since melted away.

"Mhm." Li Ao walked to her side, naturally holding her slightly cool jade hand, and informed her of Yao Chen's suggestions regarding the Materials for forging the blade, as well as the clue about Wanjin Pavilion in Tianbei City.

Medusa listened quietly. When she heard names like "nine nether cold iron," "solar essence gold," and "dragon emperors reverse scale," which even startled her, her brows furrowed slightly but soon relaxed. She understood the man beside her; since he had set a goal, even if the path ahead was a mountain of blades and a sea of fire, he would brave it.

"So, you plan to go to Tianbei City first?" Medusa looked at him, her tone certain.

"Yes." Li Ao nodded, "nine nether cold iron seems to be the clearest and relatively easiest target to obtain right now. Tianbei City is a hub in the Northern Region, and Wanjin Pavilion might have clues. Moreover... it's close to the Northwest Region, so we might also be able to keep an eye on the former site of Cloud Mist Sect and the movements of the Hall of Souls."

He considered things very thoroughly, aiming to achieve multiple objectives in one trip.

Medusa pondered for a moment, then said, "The Han Family of Tianbei City is considered a local power, and its strength should not be underestimated. Wanjin Pavilion has a mysterious background, and to operate such a business, there must be powerful individuals backing it. This trip requires caution."

She paused, then continued, "However, with our current strength, as long as we don't actively provoke those reclusive old monsters, we are sufficient to handle most situations. This King will go with you."

She did not hesitate at all, directly expressing her attitude of advancing and retreating together.

Li Ao was touched and squeezed her hand: "Shasha, thank you."

Medusa gave him a look, full of charm: "This King is not doing it for you. Forging a divine weapon enhances 'our' strength. Reviving Xiao Yi Xian is also 'our' responsibility." She specifically emphasized the words "our."

Li Ao smiled. He knew this was Medusa's way of expressing herself. She had completely taken his affairs as her own.

"Other Materials mentioned by Teacher involve the Yan Clan, Stone Clan, and even the Spirit Clan..." Li Ao's voice carried a hint of solemnity, "These ancient clans are even more insular and exclusive than the Medicine Clan. Obtaining treasures from their hands will likely be even more difficult."

"There will be a way when the time comes." Medusa, however, was more optimistic than him, her tone carrying the unique dominance and calmness of a queen, "Strength is the foundation of all discourse. Once your blade is forged and your strength further advances, then whether it's trade, bartering, or even... cooperation that they cannot ignore, all will be possible. For now, let's focus on the task at hand."

Her words were like a clear spring, washing away the hint of frustration in Li Ao's heart caused by the difficult road ahead. Yes, the path must be walked one step at a time. Obtaining the nine nether cold iron first, to lay the foundation for forging the blade, was the most important thing right now.

"You are right." Li Ao took a deep breath, his eyes once again becoming firm and sharp, "Then let's prepare, and three days later, we will depart for Tianbei City."

"Good." Medusa nodded, then as if remembering something, she said, "Heading to the Northern Region, the climate is harsh and the environment complex. We can have Ya Fei's side prepare some suitable supplies and intelligence. The Mittel Family's commercial network should also have branches in the Northern Region."

Li Ao's eyes lit up; this was a good idea. After Ya Fei took charge of the Mittel Family, her intelligence network and resource mobilization capabilities should not be underestimated. With her assistance, this trip could save a lot of trouble.

"I will write to Ya Fei right away," Li Ao said, his appreciation for Medusa's meticulousness and thoughtfulness growing. She was not only a powerful companion but also a capable helper who could fill gaps and coordinate plans for him.

The afterglow of the setting sun stretched their figures, intertwining them. They stood side by side by the pond, discussing the details of their upcoming journey, their voices calm yet carrying an undeniable certainty.

The snowstorms and unknowns of the Northern Region did not make them feel the slightest fear; instead, they ignited a soaring fighting spirit. For their shared future, for the coming blade of annihilation that would cut through everything, Tianbei City would be their next starting point.