"Dr. Wen, come forward."

The Emperor Qin's voice echoed in the lively palace, and everyone's throats seemed to be choked, as they all fell silent.

Those who recognized me turned their gaze towards me.

In their eyes, I was simply trembling from the effects of alcohol.

But only I knew the effort it took for me to resist the temptation of those tantalizing bodies and force myself to walk towards Emperor Qin.

"I have a question that I hope Dr. Wen can clarify."

Finally standing before Emperor Qin, I focused on my feet to maintain composure, and then I heard these words.

"Please... Your Majesty, ask your question."

Trembling, I bent my body, as if bowing, but in reality, I was trying to conceal the saliva dripping uncontrollably from my mouth.

"I desire immortality. Dr. Wen, do you know how it can be achieved?"

Immortality?

Upon hearing these words, for some reason, an image of Wu's face flashed in my mind. His face was pierced with bamboo skewers, covered in bloodstains.

The corners of his mouth formed a terrifying curve.

As if saying,

"Devour humans!"

By devouring humans, one can attain immortality!

"Ah!"

Beneath my sleeve, I clenched my right hand in pain.

"I don't know! I... I don't know!"

"Then what use is Dr. Wen to me?"

Hearing those words, I raised my head abruptly, meeting Emperor Qin's eyes, which held a smile that was not really a smile.

Fortunately, his bottomless gaze brought me back to my senses.

I quickly knelt down.

For now, I couldn't defy him. I pressed my face against the cold floor tiles, repeatedly reminding myself.

I still haven't found Hu Ji.

Fortunately, after a brief and unbearable silence, the voice of Emperor Qin once again resounded through the hall.

"Hahaha, don't panic. I was just joking while drunk," Emperor Qin raised the wine cup at hand, "Come, pour wine for Dr. Wen."