Chapter 192

Lucy didn't press Ian about his past experiences.

"The curse on you runs deep. It's been there for quite some time—not easy to remove."

At her current level of cultivation, she couldn't completely break Ian's curse.

But she sensed a breakthrough was imminent. Once she ascended to the Mortal Realm, lifting his curse would be effortless.

Ian's lips curved slightly. "No rush."

The difficulty meant more opportunities to stay close to Lucy.

"I'll give you a jade locket in a few days. It'll temporarily suppress the curse—no more heart pains or fainting spells."

"After that, come for regular acupuncture sessions. When the time is right, we'll remove it completely," Lucy said.

Ian nodded. "Understood."

Lucy pulled up her QR code. "Let's exchange contacts. I'll notify you before each session."

He scanned it and added her. "Done."

"By the way," Lucy suddenly asked, "why did you say Lily isn't simple?"

Ian's gaze darkened. "She has powerful backers. There's something about her that draws certain people."

Lucy raised a brow. "You mean her karmic aura?"

He blinked. "You noticed it too?"

He'd already observed the unusually thick aura surrounding Lily—a magnet for those with ill intentions.

Lucy was even more surprised. "You can see it?"

Realizing his slip, Ian simply admitted, "Yes, I have some knowledge in this area."

Lucy suddenly grabbed his wrist, pressing a fingertip to his palm.

A faint crimson sigil surfaced.

Her expression shifted. "You're a blood mage?"

Ian gave a wry smile. "Not exactly. Just basic understanding."

Lucy smirked. "A CEO and a blood mage. Impressive."

She tactfully avoided mentioning his other identity as the Black Horizon Overlord.

Ian met her eyes. "Likewise."

"When are you leaving town?" Lucy asked.

"Tomorrow," Ian replied. "The company just relocated back home—lots to handle."

"Then I'll give you the jade when we're back in the capital. For now, take this talisman."

She paused. "Don't use any blood magic. It'll worsen the curse's backlash."

Ian nodded. "Understood."

He added, "Contact me anytime if needed."

"Sure."

After lingering a while longer, Lucy headed back to the inn.

At her door, Michael stood waiting.

"Something wrong?"

His gaze was intense. "Waiting for you."

He asked bluntly, "Were you with Ian?"

Lucy didn't deny it. "Yes."

Michael frowned. "He's no good—always faking illness for sympathy. Don't fall for it."

That guy had used tricks to get close to Lucy years ago. Clearly scheming.

Lucy rolled her eyes. "Since when do you police my life?"

Michael looked wounded. "I'm just looking out for you."

Lucy sighed. "Fine, fine. I know he's got ulterior motives. Thanks for the warning."

Since when had Michael become so overbearing?

He opened his mouth but only said, "Just be careful."

"Goodnight." She waved him off and entered her room.

Michael sighed and headed downstairs, running into Ethan.

On impulse, he invited, "Drink with me?"

Ethan raised a brow. "Why?"

Though he disliked Ethan, compared to Ian, the man seemed almost tolerable. "Just talking. You don't want Ian near Lucy either, right?"

Ethan chuckled. "I respect Lucy's choices. Even if that guy is insufferable, I won't interfere."

He could sense Ian's interest in Lucy.

But even if he and Lucy were together, he'd never control her friendships.

Besides, Lucy was sharp—and aware of Ian's true identity. No way she'd be fooled.

He trusted her.

"Don't overstep," Ethan said meaningfully before walking away.

Michael stared after him, reconsidering his own behavior.

No wonder Lucy treated Ethan differently. The man was shrewd.

Late that night, Lily sneaked out to find Ian, craving his touch.

But his bodyguard informed her he was out. Defeated, she returned.

From his window, Ian watched her leave through the curtains before showering.

At dawn, he departed quietly, texting Lucy before leaving.

The crew took everyone to Heritage Mountain.

Their van stopped before the Martial Arts Pavilion.

Lily's eyes lit up.

Finally—her moment to shine.

William smiled. "This round favors Michael and Lily. Want to give it a try?"

Lily feigned modesty. "I'll try my best to get us in."

Michael said calmly, "Sure. Good chance to test my skills."

Vanessa, disliking Lily's act, whispered to Lucy, "Aren't you trying?"

Both Lucy and Ethan had claimed martial arts experience.

Lucy smiled. "Let them go first."

Vanessa grinned. "Got it. Can't wait to see the show."

Something felt off about Lily's supposed passion for martial arts.

The gates opened.

A young man and woman greeted them.

The girl beamed. "Welcome to the Martial Arts Pavilion! Please, come in!"

Clearly prepared.

As they entered, the boy announced, "The test is simple: defeat either of us in combat using traditional techniques."