It was Mu Nianbing's first time standing this close to a Monarch-level creature—and not just any monarch, but the Supreme Monarch, the Totem Black Snake itself.
Even though he knew the creature was docile by nature, it was impossible not to feel nervous.
The Black Snake stared at Mu Nianbing curiously for a long moment before slowly drawing its head back.
Mu Nianbing finally exhaled in relief.
For a second, he thought the massive serpent was about to strike him—its sudden appearance from the lake surface had nearly made his heart jump out of his chest.
But strangely enough, when he met the creature's golden eyes, he didn't feel the usual pressure or fear that would overwhelm most mages.
Could it be because of the Ice God's Blessing?
"The Black Snake actually broke its own seal for you…" Tang Yue said softly, her eyes filled with wonder.
There was something about Mu Nianbing that even she couldn't understand.
Mu Nianbing raised his head again to meet the serpent's gaze. Despite its sheer size and power, there was a curious gentleness in its movements.
When it flicked its tongue again, he could almost swear it was being playful.
"Perhaps it's the Qilin's Protection," he murmured to himself.
He remembered one of the abilities granted by that divine blessing — the Auspicious Beast's Favor, which increased goodwill among the Kunlun Demon Clan.
Since the Totem lineage shared an ancient bond with the Kunlun demons, it wasn't impossible that this protection extended to them as well.
If the Qilin's blessing could pacify even the Totem Black Snake, then perhaps no Kunlun beast would ever harm him.
Turning to Tang Yue, Mu Nianbing asked, "Teacher Tang Yue, are you the guardian of the Black Snake?"
"I suppose you could say that."
Tang Yue nodded. Since Mu Nianbing already knew so much about totems, there was no point in hiding it.
Mu Nianbing gave a small smile.
Among all the totem guardians, Tang Yue was probably the least gifted by nature — yet she possessed a resilience and heart that others lacked.
Her later breakthrough to the Super Level proved her dedication beyond talent.
Tang Yue, unaware of his thoughts, frowned suddenly as she looked at her phone.
"These people… they're spreading false rumors again!"
Her voice trembled with anger.
Mu Nianbing leaned over her shoulder to glance at the news report — and instantly understood what was happening.
Zhu Meng had begun his campaign against the Black Snake.
In Hangzhou, the higher authorities were split into two opposing factions.
One, led by the Lingyin Trial Council, sought to protect and guard the Totem Black Snake.
The other, led by Councillor Zhu Meng, viewed it as a dangerous threat and pushed for its elimination.
There were also a few neutral figures, but they held little influence in this matter.
"Nianbing," Tang Yue said, looking at him with a rare trace of unease in her eyes. "I need your help."
Her voice carried both determination and quiet pleading.
Given Mu Nianbing's current cultivation — and the fact that the Black Snake showed no hostility toward him — he was undoubtedly the most suitable person for this task.
At this close distance, her fragrance lingered faintly between them, warm and distracting.
Mu Nianbing studied her face for a moment, then finally nodded. "Alright. I'll help."
Following Tang Yue's lead, Mu Nianbing soon arrived at the Magic Association Building.
They took the elevator to the top floor — a spacious conference hall with tall windows and a sweeping view of the city skyline.
Outside the entrance, several uniformed guards stood watch, each one a high-level mage.
Moments later, a tall man with long black hair emerged from inside. His sharp eyes swept over Tang Yue, then paused briefly on Mu Nianbing.
Such a young High-level Mage — that alone was enough to leave a deep impression.
"This is my student, Mu Nianbing," Tang Yue introduced.
The man said nothing, merely stepping aside and gesturing for them to enter.
Inside, a circular table dominated the room.
Around it sat seven or eight people — men and women dressed in formal attire — while two dozen others stood at the sides in judge uniforms, each one radiating formidable magical pressure.
It was clear that those seated were high-ranking officials, most likely Super-level Mages.
At the center sat a middle-aged man with a stern face — Councillor Zhu Meng himself.
Tang Yue's expression hardened. Her anger toward Zhu Meng was evident; he was the one pushing hardest to have the Black Snake executed.
Zhu Meng's authority came directly from the Imperial Court, outranking even Luo Mian, one of Hangzhou's councilors.
Their debate soon escalated into a heated argument.
In the end, Zhu Meng issued his ultimatum — two days.
If the Black Snake was not surrendered within that time, he would take action personally.
When Zhu Meng and his entourage finally departed, the room fell into uneasy silence.
Tang Zhong, another senior member of the Tribunal, sighed deeply before turning to Mu Nianbing.
The moment he sensed the young man's cultivation, his eyes widened in surprise.
"You must be Mu Nianbing. To have reached the high level at such a young age — your future is limitless."
Tang Zhong had heard of him before.
Mingzhu Academy's rising star — the one who had even captured a Blue-robed Deacon of the Black Vatican. Few judges could claim such an achievement.
"You're too kind," Mu Nianbing replied modestly. "I just happened to practice a bit faster than others."
Tang Yue couldn't help rolling her eyes beside him. A bit faster? If that was a bit, then what did that make her — a complete novice?
Tang Zhong chuckled, clearly impressed by Mu Nianbing's humility.
"You're talented, yet not arrogant. That's rare. Have you considered joining our Lingyin Trial Council? We would treat you well."
Mu Nianbing smiled faintly. "Thank you, but I'm still focusing on my studies. I'm not planning to join any organization for now."
Tang Zhong nodded slowly. "I see. I won't force you, but I hope you'll consider it someday."
Given Mu Nianbing's potential, it wasn't impossible that he could one day reach the Peak Level, or even ascend to the realm of Forbidden Curse Mages.
Finally, Tang Zhong turned to Tang Yue. "Tang Yue, take the Black Snake somewhere safe. It's entering its molting period — it must not be disturbed."
He did not ask Mu Nianbing to accompany her, knowing that the Black Snake, while calm toward him, might still be sensitive to other high-level auras nearby.
Tang Yue nodded solemnly. "Understood."
And with that, preparations began — for both the Black Snake's protection and the storm that was sure to follow.
...
Author's Note:
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