Chapter 2825
Kai was aware of Suo Xingyue’s underlying intentions, so he chose not to push the matter any further.
After all, Suo Xingyue was a fifth-grade upper-level pill master; if there had been any issues with his health, he would have recognized them himself!
Meng He, watching Suo Xingyue and the others appear slightly dazed and off-kilter, felt a rush of satisfaction inside!
However, seeing Kai engaged in lively conversation and quick thinking sparked a hint of suspicion in Meng He!
Meng He stood up and discreetly winked at Zhu Zhu.
Zhu Zhu hurriedly followed him outside while Suo Xingyue was distracted!
When Kai noticed Zhu Zhu darting out after Meng He, he didn’t intervene.
“Zhu Zhu, did Kai take the medicine?” Meng He inquired.
“Yes, I placed it in the teapot at that time. Kai and my uncles drank the tea; I witnessed it myself, so I can’t be mistaken,” Zhu Zhu replied confidently.
“That’s odd; he doesn’t seem to show any signs of poisoning,” Meng He remarked, his brow furrowing in confusion.
“Brother Meng, could it be that everyone’s constitution is different, leading to varying effects from the medicine?” Zhu Zhu suggested.
“That’s possible. Since that kid consumed the medicine, there’s nothing to fear. I’m definitely taking first place in this competition,” Meng He said with a slight smirk.
“Brother Meng, once you claim the top spot, don’t forget your promise! You have to take me far away!” Zhu Zhu exclaimed, taking Meng He’s hand.
“Don’t worry; you’re my woman now. If I don’t take you away, who else would?” Meng He gently caressed Zhu Zhu’s face, making her beam with happiness.
About an hour later, a series of melodious bells rang, prompting everyone in the hall to rise!
“Mr. Chen, the competition is about to start. Let’s head to the pill refining square…” Suo Xingyue informed Kai.
“Elder Suo, please lead the way…” Kai replied politely, gesturing for him to go ahead.
The group exited the hall and made their way to the Pill Refining Square.
At that moment, the large square was bustling with spectators, all gathered to witness the event!
“Mr. Chen, the contestants’ waiting area is off to the side, so I won’t accompany you,” Suo Xingyue noted.
As judges, Suo Xingyue and the others had to take the stage, while Kai and the others waited offstage.
The judges took their seats on stage, and Zhu Zhu positioned herself behind Suo Xingyue.
A vacant seat remained in the center of the judges’ panel, indicating that not all judges had arrived yet.
“Mr. Chen, the center seat is reserved for the Jialing County judge. For fairness in this Pill Master Association Grand Competition, Jialing County will also provide a judge to ensure no one cheats!”
The Third Elder addressed Kai, “As soon as the Jialing County referee arrives, the competition will begin, so please prepare!”
Kai nodded with a smile.
Before long, an elderly man descended from the sky and gracefully settled into the judges’ reserved seat.
Kai observed as Suo Xingyue and the others greeted the old man, signaling that the competition was officially underway!
Shortly thereafter, the guards from Jialing County placed alchemy furnaces on the stage, arranging the medicinal materials in front of each furnace!
To ensure fairness, both the furnaces and herbs were identical.
This setup meant that the competition would solely showcase the skills of each pill maker!
“I hereby announce the start of the competition. All contestants, please take your positions.”
“Each of you has the same alchemy furnace and herbs. The first challenge is based on speed. Whoever can refine a third-grade top-quality pill first will be declared the winner.”
“In this round, only twenty pill masters will proceed, so give it your all!” the elderly judge from Jialing County proclaimed energetically!