After Liu Buli informed Lu Wuming of his intention to enter the alchemy furnace, Lu Wuming never contacted Liu Buli again after that communication ended.
It wasn't that he didn't want to contact her.
He was simply worried that his contact would disturb her.
After all, his master was trying to accomplish a very important task, one that had worried them all for a long time.
Lu Wuming looked forward to Liu Buli's success more than anyone. Since that was the case, he certainly wouldn't allow himself to be a stumbling block.
But it was precisely because of this that Lu Wuming's own mood became exceptionally low during the following period. Not only the Ghost King, but even Thirteen, who would occasionally come to accompany him, noticed it. After another battle ended, Thirteen tentatively asked Lu Wuming, "Young Master, you seem to be in a bad mood lately. Did something happen? Is there anything I can help you with?"
Based on their interactions during this time, Thirteen had completely come to regard Lu Wuming as his young master. In his eyes, Lu Wuming's current status was not much lower than the Ghost King's. In fact, from a certain perspective, this young master, who conversed with them and even offered guidance on cultivation methods, felt more approachable than the aloof and mysterious Ghost King. Now that the young master was experiencing psychological distress, Thirteen, as his top subordinate, was naturally eager to help him resolve his troubles.
However, upon hearing Thirteen's question, Lu Wuming frowned slightly, displeased. He asked Thirteen, "Am I expressing my unhappiness too obviously?"
Thirteen nodded.
Although it seemed like this wasn't the young master's intention, it had to be admitted that the young master was practically wearing his unhappiness on his face.
It couldn't have been more explicit.
Frowning again, Lu Wuming raised his hand and pressed hard on his forehead twice. He felt unhappy for two reasons: first, he could no longer have those private exchanges with Liu Buli; second, and more importantly, he hadn't been by his master's side when she was facing such a critical matter. His dissatisfaction with himself and his worry for Liu Buli. With these two factors combined, it would be a miracle if he could be happy.
However, regardless of the reason, he absolutely could not reveal it to Thirteen.
So, after a moment of silence, Lu Wuming sighed. He said, "I'm just a bit conflicted. The Ghost King told me some time ago to cooperate fully and let him examine my memories after Chu Qi returns. I know this is necessary, but I still feel uncomfortable. After all, memories are very important, and it's always unsettling to have them viewed by others..."
Lu Wuming had finally learned to be clever.
Seeing his hesitant demeanor and the wavering tone in his voice, it seemed as though his concerns were exactly as he stated, leaving no room for doubt.
As his unwavering supporter, Thirteen naturally offered his earnest comfort upon hearing his thoughts. "Young Master, you shouldn't think of it this way. I know having your memories examined by others is unpleasant. I also felt very uncomfortable the first time Chu Qi viewed all of our memories. But if you look at it from another perspective, it's not that difficult to accept. Think about it, we need the King to accept us. If we only try to persuade him with words, even if the King believes us, others might not. The heart cannot lie. Since that's the case, letting the King directly view our memories and clearly see what we're thinking, isn't that more effective than any words? And it saves us the trouble of talking, doesn't it?"
To Thirteen, this matter was indeed that simple and easy.
After all, Thirteen was truly loyal to the Ghost King and had never considered betrayal. Why would he fear having his memories examined by Chu Qi?
As long as one harbored no other intentions, no one would fear having their memories observed. To put it more plainly, if Liu Buli were the one examining Lu Wuming's memories, Lu Wuming would not hold back at all. He would even actively assist her in viewing them.
Because in his memories, there was only his deep love for Liu Buli. That love was profound and sincere, so much so that he himself felt it couldn't be described in words. If Liu Buli were willing to examine them, he would almost welcome it.
But it was different when facing the Ghost King.
Lu Wuming narrowed his eyes and appeared to be deep in thought.
Thirteen earnestly offered him advice by his side, "Young Master, as long as you haven't done anything to betray our King, having your memories examined is not a significant matter. Or even if you disliked the King in the past and thought of harming him, it doesn't matter. As long as your thoughts have changed now, and Chu Qi senses your intentions, he will tell the King everything you're thinking. He is very accurate and won't miss anything."
Simply confirming loyalty, what a simple matter this was!
Lu Wuming cursed inwardly, but maintained a thoughtful expression on his face.
At the same time, as if sensing his wavering, not only Thirteen but even the grand hall they were leaning against echoed with the Ghost King's voice. He said, "Child, Thirteen is right. I simply want to confirm your loyalty. I don't care about the other things you're worried about. As long as you are truly staying here as you said, without any intention of escaping, then you shouldn't be afraid or resist this. In any case, there is still some time before they return, and this period can give you ample time to consider. I hope that after careful consideration, you can give me an answer that satisfies both of us."
The Ghost King's voice sounded as benevolent as ever.
Thirteen nodded vigorously at Lu Wuming, his eyes filled with encouragement and anticipation.
Sensing their intentions, Lu Wuming lowered his gaze once more.
After a moment of silence, he said, "Let me consider it again."