Volume 4: Hidden Battles – Chapter 173: What Is a Good-for-Nothing?

“That so-called Priest Olin is nothing but rotten flesh, a stinky, hard bone—no matter what tricks I use, he won’t reveal a single word! Damn it!” Fernandi spat vulgarly, filled with hatred.
“Heh, if you can’t get the information, then you can’t. Why get so angry? By the way, don’t the vampires have this thing called ‘first embrace,’ after which the person is under your control…”
Before Chu Tianyu could finish speaking, Fernandi interrupted, “Don’t believe the rumors out there. If achieving a first embrace were that easy, the world would already be ruled by vampires. Would it still be in such a chaotic state? Besides, that Priest Olin is a high-ranking clergyman. His sacred power makes him completely immune to our first embrace—unless we kill him. Ugh, just thinking about him makes me angry. If it weren’t for your insistence on keeping him alive for that kid Orsini, I would have drained his blood long ago! Hmph…”
After saying that, Fernandi smiled at Chu Tianyu, his eyes shifting as he added, “By the way, Chu, why did you come here alone? Doesn’t Orsini still have many plans to discuss?”
Fernandi’s indirect questioning and persistent nosiness reminded Chu Tianyu of Bai Lei. Shaking his head with a smile, he said, “You’re really curious!”
Fernandi’s pale face turned red. “I’ve lived for thousands of years. If I don’t find some fun for myself, how can I live?”
Chu Tianyu was struck by these words. As if suddenly enlightened, he asked, “Brother, with such great power and someone like Zui Tian backing you, based on our interactions so far, I think you could easily gain a foothold in Europe. You definitely have the capability. But why does it seem like you sometimes don’t want to use this power? And many things you ask me to help with could actually be done by your own strength. Why take such detours?”
“Heh, that’s called having a sense of life’s pleasures. Otherwise, living for so long without anything to pursue or achieve would drive me crazy!” Fernandi replied nonchalantly.
“Then why are you using me to fulfill this wish now?” Chu Tianyu asked, puzzled.

“Because I have a new goal now. Those lower-quality ones are just good enough to satisfy me temporarily; otherwise, keeping them in mind for too long would drive me crazy!” Fernandi said, gazing into the distance.
“Like that spoiled wine you drank earlier? And you still enjoyed it!” Chu Tianyu asked.
“Yeah, whatever its taste, as long as I enjoy it, it’s delicious!” Fernandi replied matter-of-factly.
“By the way, may I ask what new goal made you give up those lower-quality ones?” Chu Tianyu suddenly asked.
Fernandi pondered for a while before finally uttering three words: “It’s you!”
“Oh!” Chu Tianyu responded without much surprise at this answer. As for the reason, he didn’t ask further, as the answer was already clear in his mind.
“I have a goal now. What about yours?” Chu Tianyu remained silent. But Fernandi then said something astonishing:
“My goal?” Chu Tianyu repeated. He really didn’t know how to answer this question, which had just troubled him.
However, it seemed Fernandi knew Chu Tianyu couldn’t answer, so he didn’t press further. Instead, he spoke as if to himself: “Actually, before meeting you, this question also troubled me deeply. Though I created a little illusion for myself, I knew in my heart it was just self-deception.”
At this point, Fernandi paused, seemingly to arouse Chu Tianyu’s curiosity. After confirming that Chu Tianyu’s attention was drawn, he continued, “Do you know who runs the Red Cross societies across Europe? Don’t look at me with such confusion. That’s right, it’s myDon’t look at me with such confusion. That’s right, it’s my fallen angel! Hehe, you didn’t expect an old vampire to donate blood and! Hehe, you didn’t expect an old vampire to donate blood and show kindness to others, right? Ridiculous, right?”
Facing Fernandi’s casual tone at the end, Chu Tianyu didn’t find it funny at all. By this point, it seemed Chu Tianyu had understood what Fernandi meant.
Sure enough, Fernandi continued, “As a group excluded by mainstream society, I, like other vampires, was initially filled with hatred and a desire to destroy. Coupled with our innate instinct to feed on blood, we became even more cruel to humans! But this cruelty is only from your human perspective. For us, eating is just like you eating pigs, cows, or sheep…”

“By the way, bro, why does it seem like sometimes you speak from the vampires’ perspective, and other times you’re full of hatred and contempt for them?” Chu Tianyu interjected.
“Nothing much. Do you know why I helped you at Isher Castle? It’s not because of that so-called monkey wine you gave me, but because I owe you Chinese people a favor. I used to be an ordinary vampire too. When I was at my lowest, expelled from Europe, I traveled around the world and came to China. Back then, China was the most mysterious country in the East. It was there that I had a remarkable experience, which transformed me as if I were reborn. My powers not only reached a level I could hardly imagine, but I also stopped fearing direct sunlight…”
Fernando didn’t continue, but Chu Tianyu could roughly guess what happened next. This explained Fernando’s complex, even contradictory, feelings toward vampires.
“Let’s not talk about this. Back to the previous topic. Over these thousands of years, I’ve taken many detours before finally discovering a truth: the true goal of ‘life’ is to build, not to destroy! Though reckless destruction is the best way to vent emotions, it only leaves emptiness after. Building, on the other hand, though a romantic and difficult process, brings a sense of fulfillment and happiness that nothing else can compare to once the result is seen! That’s why I chose ‘donating blood’ instead of ‘drinking blood!’” Fernando concluded with a vivid analogy.
After saying that, Fernando looked at the thoughtful Chu Tianyu and added, “I hope my words can be of some help to you!”
Chu Tianyu fully understood what Fernando meant. After all, the achievements of “building” are far greater than those of “destroying.” Just like a building—destroying it might take just a few seconds with an explosion, but building it requires planning, design, and many steps over a long period of time!
Obviously, the ultimate outcomes of the two are completely different, as are the feelings they bring to people. One leads to nothingness after destruction, while the other brings fulfillment after construction. Which is more important goes without saying.
Of course, this metaphor of destruction and building is just that—a metaphor. Although it might not be entirely appropriate for Chu Tianyu’s current state of mind, the underlying principle remains relevant.

Actually, Chu Tianyu himself knew this truth; otherwise, he wouldn’t have brought it up to Bai Lei before and hoped to get his help in the future. But today, having Fernando state it so clearly right here made it much easier and clearer than Chu Tianyu had imagined.
“Thank you, bro!” Chu Tianyu, now much more relaxed, said to Fernando with a smile.
“Hehe, there’s no need to thank me. This emotion is hard to control anyway—sometimes it can change just because of a small thing, affecting our actions. I just expressed your own realization. In your Chinese terms, I merely acted as a catalyst!” Fernando said leisurely.
“By the way, Chu, what’s your next plan?” Fernando changed the subject, clearly not wanting to dwell on the previous topic any longer.
Chu Tianyu pondered for a moment before saying, “No need to plan further. After today’s battle in the jungle, I’m sure that Thorn has already heard about it. And I think Duke Orsini has made his stance clear. As long as we position them as the side of justice, all we need to do is boldly go to Rome and challenge them!”
Hearing Chu Tianyu’s words, Fernando rubbed his hands excitedly and said, “Hehe, great! Finally, we can go to Rome and kick that bastard Thorn’s ass and take back that ruby from him…”
As he spoke, Fernando wasn’t even talking to Chu Tianyu anymore—he was lost in glorious fantasies. Judging from his expression, his malicious intentions were quite despicable!
Chu Tianyu shook his head, unable to deal with him. He shouted, “Bro, we should go. Let’s go see Orsini and find out their situation. Once they’ve made arrangements, we’ll head to Rome. You’ll get your chance then!”
“Really? Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go now…” Saying this, he grabbed Chu Tianyu, clearly eager already.
On the road…
“Bro, what led to you being exiled from Europe?” Chu Tianyu, now in a better mood, asked out of curiosity.
“…”

“Is it some old-fashioned love story? Have you taken a fancy to some wealthy lady again? A love affair in the backyard garden—oh, no, it should be behind the castle. And then…” Chu Tianyu kept talking non-stop, imagining various possibilities for Fernando, while occasionally throwing in some tempting remarks like, “What, am I wrong? Then tell me what really happened back then?” “Was that lady beautiful? What’s her name?” and so on.
Fernando was left speechless, able only to think to himself that perhaps the angels hadn’t seen his good deed of trying to guide Chu Tianyu today…
…
In Rome, in Archbishop Thorne’s secret chamber, only he was left now. His right-hand men, Priest Krigu and ClericOlympus, had both died—this situation was just as bad for him as everything else going on!
Yet Thorne showed no emotion at all; on the contrary, his face remained calm, as if nothing had happened.
“Who exactly is that mysterious Easterner? Was the shadow from a while ago also him?” Thorne suddenly spoke as if to himself.
At that moment, a strange melody sounded in the room, as if answering Thorne’s question, with a rhythm that rose and fell.
After that strange melody faded, Thorne fell deep into thought. After a long while, he asked doubtfully, “Is his skill really that high? From such a distance, how could you still be intimidated by his presence?”
The strange melody sounded again, as if in response.
“Oh, replay that scene for me once more,” Thorne said, somewhat puzzled.
Silence fell back in the chamber. After another while, Thorne said with a thoughtful expression, “He’s truly formidable! That worthless Orsini could pull off such a brilliant feat—probably all thanks to this Easterner. And based on the theory of judging outcomes from the process, that mysterious shadow is 100% that Easterner!”
“…” Another strange melody sounded.
“His skill is absolutely terrifying! Tell me, in a one-on-one fight between me and him, who has a better chance of winning? Just use your intuition!”
“…”

“Well, I think so too. The difference should be minimal, hehe. But it’s a pity—as you can see, this Easterner has one fatal flaw: he’s too showy and arrogant! Hmph, someone with such great power will never know how to act discreetly!” Before Guaiyin could reply, Thor continued, “This is our chance. Even if we’re on par with him in strength, his flaw is enough to ensure he can never recover! I bet that arrogant guy thinks what’s about to happen is a direct showdown between him and me, the battle that will decide everything. Hehe, I can’t wait! I not only want to teach him humility and discretion but also show him our true strength. It’s insane just thinking about it. It’s been so long since anyone made me this excited, haha… haha…”

If anyone had seen this scene at that moment, they would surely find it bizarre. Thor stood there alone, head bowed, speaking as if talking to someone, while his laughter came from his lowered hair, facing only a shadow in the dimly lit room…

Chu Tianyu walked leisurely through the streets of Rome, enjoying the pervasive classical atmosphere and the lifelike statues. He thought to himself that if Li Rou could see this, she would be extremely excited—she would surely take out her drawing pad and sketch along the way…

Chu Tianyu walked for three full days, thoroughly enjoying himself, while leaving those tracking him utterly exhausted. In fact, as soon as Chu Tianyu set foot in Rome, Thor’s men followed him like shadows. Moreover, various extraordinary individuals used countless tracking methods, adding to the excitement for Chu Tianyu, who had already noticed them while admiring the scenery. Sometimes, Chu Tianyu would deliberately act alert, causing the trackers to switch tactics several times. Only when they were sure he wasn’t on guard would they relax. After all, the dangerous person they were tasked with tracking was said to be the legendary Shadow Butcher. Though they were confident in their tracking and stealth skills, any mistake could lead to disastrous consequences—not only would the mission fail, but their lives would also be at risk!

Chu Tianyu’s figure gradually moved away from the city’s glamour, and the number of trackers following him dwindled, with only a few top elite experts remaining to continue monitoring him.

As the lights came on, Chu Tianyu, whether intentionally or not, found himself at a small chapel in the suburbs. From the outside, the chapel didn’t appear particularly ornate—likely just a simple place for prayer and baptism in the countryside.

Chu Tianyu walked in slowly. Though small, the chapel was fully equipped. A priest in a gray robe stood under a row of flickering candles, head bowed, praying softly to a statue of Jesus hanging on the wall. After what seemed like a long time, they both said “Amen” almost at the same time. Only then did the priest slowly stand up, turn around, and, without any surprise, meet Chu Tianyu’s smiling gaze. He asked in soft English, “Where are you from?”

“China!” Chu Tianyu replied without hesitation. Yet those three words were spoken in very clear Mandarin. Coupled with his confident smile, it seemed to imply, “If you can understand, then you know where I’m from. If not, there’s no point in continuing this conversation.”

“Good, very good!” the priest said in his native language, as if to himself. After a pause, as if adjusting his thoughts, he continued, “I suppose you’re also Chinese. A Chinese monk, right?”

This last sentence was spoken by the priest in fluent and standard Mandarin. Chu Tianyu wasn’t surprised at all. He replied calmly, “I’m not really a monk—just an enthusiast of Chinese kung fu, haha. I didn’t expect Archbishop Thorne to speak such good Mandarin. At first listen, it sounds not only very familiar but also comforting, making me feel homesick and eager to go back right away…”

“Then why don’t you go back? Maybe coming here was already a mistake! What conditions did Orsini offer you? I can give you ten times as much. If you give up now, we can definitely become friends!” Thorne interrupted before Chu Tianyu could finish speaking.

“You might not believe it, but I came to Europe not only to handle some matters but also to take a leisurely trip. It was a simple task, but you’ve made it so complicated. My principle is: if no one bothers me, I won’t bother anyone. But if they do, I’ll fight back!” Chu Tianyu’s voice grew colder.

“Is it all because of Castle Esher?” Thorne asked, seemingly having done some research.

However, Chu Tianyu had no intention of hiding anything. After demonstrating his strength to that dark shadow in the distance that night, he figured that with Thorne’s abilities, it would be only a matter of time before Thorne traced the heir of Ischer Castle and thus found him as well. So, Chu Tianyu stayed in Rome for three days, waiting for the chance to meet Thorne alone. The strength he had deliberately shown that time, along with the growing power of the Orsini Duke and several other major families approaching the area, was implicitly pressuring Thorne, creating an atmosphere where the only way to resolve all conflicts was through a clash of powers beyond ordinary imagination—whichever side won would be able to turn everything around and decide everything. After all, with their combined strength, they certainly had the power to turn the tide and change everything.

“Not bad!” Chu Tianyu replied affirmatively to Thorne’s question.

“Hah,” Thorne sneered, “My Chinese friend, what you’ve done goes far beyond revenge—it’s outright conquest and aggression!”

His tone rose sharply on the last sentence, as if delivering a harsh rebuke.

Chu Tianyu lightly pushed himself up and stared straight at Thorne, saying, “All conclusions should be made by the victor. I think you understand that principle, right? Whether it’s revenge or conquest, perhaps the final outcome will be that I help the European people liberate themselves from the rule of some evil archbishop. Ah, life is unpredictable—who can say for sure?”

After hearing this, Thorne laughed in anger, “Arrogant! Simply arrogant!”

“Hehe, I guess, Archbishop Thorne, you didn’t send people to follow me for days, keep track of my movements, just to say this to me, did you? I thought you’d send some lowly minions to warm up first. To think it’s you who came in person—I truly feel honored!” Chu Tianyu said calmly, unfazed.

“I know your strength is immense, so those people would be wasting their time. But you don’t need to be so arrogant. Don’t Easterners value humility and kindness? Have you forgotten? Being too proud as a young man sometimes comes at a bloody price…” Thorne said ominously.

“Oh, I don’t think so. Youth should have courage. Strength decides everything—fists speak for themselves!” Chu Tianyu said deliberately in a tough tone.

Thorn was overjoyed upon hearing this. He was not one to engage in battles he was not sure of winning. The more weaknesses the enemy revealed, the greater his chances of victory. The more arrogant and confident Chu Tianyu became, the more powerful he needed to appear at the right moment to deliver a devastating blow to such a strong yet overconfident opponent!
“A supremely talented waste!” Thorn muttered disdainfully in his heart…