"Bright red blood?" Huang Rong frowned slightly, studying Yang Guo's swollen black palm with suspicion. She retrieved a Nine-Flower Jade Dew Pill from her embroidered pouch and handed it to him. "Chew and swallow it."

Yang Guo took the pill and bit down. A refreshing sweetness instantly filled his mouth. The cooling medicinal energy flowed down his throat to his dantian, spreading comfort throughout his body. He marveled inwardly—the legendary Peach Blossom Island's remedy truly lived up to its reputation.

"Thank you, Aunt Guo." Yang Guo's eyes sparkled with an innocent smile. "My mother always said you were the most beautiful and brilliant woman in the world. Seeing you today, I know she wasn't exaggerating."

Huang Rong froze. Since when had Mu Nianci spoken of her like that? Then she realized—this sly boy must have inherited his father's silver tongue. A faint smile touched her lips. "Your mother flatters me too much."

Guo Jing suddenly tensed, scanning their surroundings. "That demoness must be nearby." He threw back his head and let out a thunderous roar that shook the air. Willow branches trembled, and birds scattered in alarm.

Though Yang Guo knew the plot, the sheer force of the roar still sent a jolt through his heart. Guo Jing's internal energy was far more profound than he'd imagined. The sound waves layered upon each other like the thunder of ten thousand horses charging.

Not to be outdone by her husband, Huang Rong gathered her qi and released a clear, melodious roar. Her cry intertwined with Guo Jing's mighty bellow, soaring into the heavens like a phoenix's song meeting a dragon's roar.

After years of rigorous training on Peach Blossom Island, the couple's internal energy had reached perfection. Though Huang Rong's strength couldn't match Guo Jing's, her technique was far more agile and versatile. Their combined roars carried for miles.

Yang Guo suppressed a laugh. In the original story, these roars had scared away both Huang Yaoshi and Ouyang Feng. Even Li Mochou had retreated in despair. Today's performance was likely wasted effort.

He stole a glance at Huang Rong and noted the lingering suspicion in her brow. This sharp-witted aunt wasn't easily fooled. His earlier flattery probably hadn't dispelled her wariness.

A faint rustle came from distant treetops, as if someone had fled. Yang Guo narrowed his eyes—Li Mochou had indeed been frightened off by the roars. His fingers brushed against the Five Venoms Secret Manual hidden in his robe as he plotted his next move.

Guo Jing ceased roaring, his thick brows furrowed. "Strange. No one answered the challenge."

Huang Rong gently touched his arm. "Perhaps the demoness knew she was outmatched."

Suddenly, Yang Guo clutched his arm with a pained expression. Huang Rong's sharp gaze bore into him, as if seeing through his act. The boy's heart sank—this brilliant aunt was far too perceptive to deceive.