《Misty Rain Tower》


 Chapter 1 – Li Ziye

    "Fairy Qin is coming to Yuzhou City!"


    In the Great Shang Dynasty, Yuzhou City, a message from an unknown source instantly ignited the entire city!


    "Fairy Qin? The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal? What is she doing in Yuzhou City?"


    "Of course, she is here to recruit disciples!"


    For several days, whether it was the storytellers or the influential figures in the city, they all talked about one person.


    Qin E''nuo!


    When it comes to Qin E''nuo, it is truly an endless topic.


    Simply put, she is beautiful, powerful, and invincible in the world.


    Now, such a divine figure is going to recruit direct disciples. How can people not go crazy?


    But to become Qin E''nuo''s disciple, one must be a rare genius that appears once in ten or a hundred years. It is probably unimaginable for most people.


    For the past three months, Qin E''nuo has traveled to more than ten cities in the Shang Dynasty, but still hasn''t found a satisfactory candidate.


    This time, she came to Yuzhou City for only one person, the legendary unparalleled genius.


    "Among the younger generation in the Nine Provinces, there are five individuals who are considered unparalleled arrogance. They are the Buddhist Disciple San Zang, the Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu from the Divine Temple, the Holy Maiden Huo Lin''er from the Vermilion Bird Sect, and the Fourth Prince Mu Bai from the Great Shang Dynasty. Unfortunately, these four already have their own masters."


    In the largest restaurant in Yuzhou City, a master storyteller with a folding fan in his hand was passionately speaking, and many customers at the surrounding tables were listening with great interest. Most of them were traveling tradesmen who stopped by the restaurant to rest and learn about the local customs.


    "Storyteller, didn''t you say there were five people? But you only mentioned four," a man at a nearby table asked.


    "Don''t rush."


    The storyteller took a sip of tea and said, "Do you know which trading company is the largest in our Great Shang Dynasty?"


    "Who doesn''t know? It''s the Li Family in Yuzhou City. They are known as wealthy enough to rival a country. What does that have to do with what you said?" the man replied unhappily.


    "It is related, and it''s a big deal."


    The storyteller smiled mysteriously and said, "The head of the Li Family, Li Baiwan, has a son named Li Ziye. He is an unparalleled genius, not inferior to the Buddhist Disciple San Zang or the Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu."


    "You''re just bragging."


    A scholar at another table sneered, "What kind of people are the Buddhist Disciple San Zang and the Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu? How can Li Ziye from the Li Family be compared to them?"


    "I''m not making it up. Sword Enthusiast, do you know?"


    The storyteller glanced disdainfully at the scholar and said, "It is said that when Sword Enthusiast came to Yuzhou City some time ago, Li Baiwan wanted his son to become his disciple. However, after Sword Enthusiast saw Li Ziye from the Li Family, he directly refused and only said one sentence."


    At this point, the storyteller deliberately paused, leaving a cliffhanger.


    The listeners around immediately became curious.


    Sword Enthusiast, they knew, was a famous master of swordsmanship in the Shang Dynasty, known for his love of alcohol and swords, and had a great reputation.


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    The man at the table next to them became impatient and shouted, "Stop keeping us in suspense. What did Sword Enthusiast say?"


    The scholar on the other side also perked up his ears, waiting for the answer.


    Seeing that everyone was hooked, the storyteller took a satisfied sip of tea and slowly said, "Sword Enthusiast said that Li Ziye from the Li Family has the appearance of a Sword Immortal, but my Foolish Sword is not worthy to be his master."


    As soon as these words fell, the crowd erupted in astonishment.


    Outside the restaurant, a young man dressed in a brocade robe heard the words and stopped in his tracks.


    "Fourth... Young Master, these storytellers are just trying to please the crowd. The Li Family is a merchant family. How could there be any swordsmanship prodigy? When Sword Immortal Qin arrives in Yuzhou City, with the Young Master''s martial arts talent, he will definitely be able to successfully become her disciple," a servant boy by the young man''s side spoke, flattering.


    The young man in the brocade robe shook his head and said, "He is not making it up. Sword Enthusiast did say such words. That''s why I came to Yuzhou City. One reason is to try my best to become Sword Immortal Qin''s disciple, and the other reason is to see for myself if the only son of the Li Family is truly as talented as the rumors say."


    Inside the restaurant, the master storyteller continued to talk, and the same rumors spread from Yuzhou City as the center, gradually spreading to various places and becoming more and more sinister.


    "Do you know? The Li Family has a son named Li Ziye, who is said to have the appearance of a Sword Immortal. Even Sword Enthusiast doesn''t dare to accept him as a disciple, fearing that he would miss out on a great talent of this era."


    "Do you know what? I heard that Li Ziye was born holding a sword, and when he was born, there was a purple mist covering the sky, and the sword aura soared into the clouds."


    "Is it true? That''s so sinister!"


    "It''s true. I heard about it too. Li Ziye is truly the strongest genius of this era. At the age of ten, he created a peerless sword technique called Tai Chi. It is said that when the sword technique was first completed, there was a surge of wind and thunder, and extraordinary phenomena occurred."


    "These points you know are too ordinary. I heard that Li Ziye recently comprehended an unparalleled sword intent. With one sword, he leveled a mountain, even shocking those unparalleled experts who have not appeared in the world. That''s why the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal entered the world and came to Yuzhou City to accept him as her disciple."


    "What a load of nonsense. I heard that Li Ziye is about to ascend and achieve the supreme sword path."


    One person spreads rumors, and three people believe them. In just three months, the rumors that spread from Yuzhou City as the center became more and more outrageous, from Li Ziye having the appearance of a Sword Immortal to Li Ziye soon ascending to the heavens, shocking the unsuspecting masses.


    However, no matter how absurd the rumors were, they couldn''t change one fact.


    Li Ziye became famous.


    ***


    And at the center of the rumors, in the Li Residence in Yuzhou City, a magnificent mansion comparable to a royal courtyard, it was more appropriate to call it a city than a residence.


    The Li Residence was too large, so large that it was difficult to determine the directions once inside.


    The Li Family in Yuzhou City was known to be wealthy enough to rival a country, and it was not just an empty claim.Based on speculation, the wealth controlled by the Li Family even surpasses that of the Great Shang Treasury.


    Although the Li Family has been engaged in business for generations and possesses astonishing wealth, the real transformation of the Li Family to its current state only happened in the past decade or so.


    Perfume, crystal, mirrors, soap... Over the past decade, one after another, these novel yet popular items appeared in the Li Family''s shops all over the place, allowing the Li Family''s wealth to accumulate rapidly, truly reaching a state of wealth that could rival a nation.


    Few people knew why the Li Family could develop these novel items, but the Li Family knew.


    It was all because of the birth of the Young Master.


    Young Master Li Ziye was different from the moment he was born. He invented many strange things that didn''t exist in this world, which took the Li Family''s business empire to another level.


    However, Li Ziye, who should have grown up with a golden spoon in his mouth and lived a carefree life, didn''t seem to be very happy.


    He even seemed a bit melancholic.


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, a teenager of about sixteen or seventeen was sitting in a pavilion in the middle of the lake, fishing and looking melancholic.


    The teenager was very handsome and dressed meticulously. With gold and silver threads, jade accessories, and his rich appearance, he was clearly a child of a wealthy family.


    To put it bluntly, he was a nouveau riche.


    The teenager was Li Ziye, who was now famous throughout Yuzhou City and even the entire Royal Dynasty. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Old Li, you won''t go back on your word about the ten jars of Intoxicated Blossom Brew, will you?"


    On the riverbank, a slovenly drunk old man glanced at the potbellied middle-aged man next to him and asked.


    Next to the slovenly old man, a sword was casually placed. The sword was not bad, it had the look of a famous sword.


    The slovenly old man was the Sword Enthusiast, surnamed Zhang. His name was unknown to most, and those who knew him well often called him Old Zhang, or Slovenly Zhang.


    Although the Sword Enthusiast didn''t look impressive and was addicted to alcohol, no one could deny that this slovenly old man was a renowned powerhouse.


    Next to the slovenly old man, the potbellied middle-aged man dressed in rich attire was Li Ziye''s father, Li Baiwan.


    If Li Ziye''s image could still be associated with some noble qualities, then Li Baiwan was the epitome of a nouveau riche.


    Li Baiwan was wearing Cloud Brocade from the Southern Frontier, wearing jade from the north, sitting on a Tiger Bone Chair from the Western Regions, and holding a Black Pearl from the Eastern Sea.


    His entire outfit was worth tens of thousands of gold. If it weren''t for the fact that he couldn''t wear any more, Li Baiwan would have wished to wear all the gold and jade on his body, fearing that others wouldn''t know he was rich.


    "Of course not."


    Upon hearing the slovenly old man''s question, Li Baiwan replied with a smile, "Old Zhang, do you think Qin E''nuo will believe the rumors in the city?"


    "I don''t know, don''t ask me."


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine from his jug and said, "I''ve done what you asked me to do. Whether she believes it or not, it''s none of my business."


    "Ah."


    Upon hearing this, Li Baiwan looked at his only son in the pavilion in the lake with a worried expression and said, "Old Zhang, do you really think my son has no talent for martial arts?"


    "No."


    This time, Slovenly Zhang answered very decisively.


    In the pavilion in the middle of the lake, Li Ziye seemed to have heard something. He turned his head to look at the slovenly old man on the bank and said, "Old Zhang, you''ve lived a long time and seen a lot. Is there any heaven-defying technique or pill in this world that can transform a person and make them a martial arts genius?"


    "Heh."


    Upon hearing Li Ziye''s question, Slovenly Zhang put down his wine jug and said, "There''s no such technique, but there is a way. Do you want to hear it?"


    "What''s the way?"


    Upon hearing this, both Li Ziye and Li Baiwan perked up and asked.


    "Dream on!"


    Slovenly Zhang said indifferently.


    "......"


    Li Ziye was speechless.


    "Kid, you don''t need to worry."


    Slovenly Zhang glanced at him and said, "Just because I can''t teach you martial arts doesn''t mean Qin E''nuo can''t. Her realm is higher than mine, and she''s seen no less than I have. She might have a way. Of course, the premise is that you can figure out a way to make her take you as her disciple."


    "That makes sense."


    Li Ziye nodded in agreement and said, "She''s a Sword Immortal, she should have some abilities that others don''t."


    "I''m not a good father!" Li Baiwan said with guilt.


    In the middle of the lake, Li Ziye got on a small boat, stood at the bow with his hands behind his back, and behind him, a beautiful maid was rowing the boat. It was a picture of a beautiful woman and a talented man, like a fairy tale.


    On the shore, Slovenly Zhang watched Li Ziye on the small boat and shook his head.


    This kid, only his appearance was passable.


    He was now somewhat regretful. Was it worth it to say such words just for ten jars of Intoxicated Blossom Brew?


    He had tarnished his reputation!


    The small boat docked, and Li Ziye got off the boat, patted Li Baiwan''s shoulder lightly, and whispered, "It''s okay."


    Hearing Li Ziye''s comfort, Li Baiwan felt even more guilty and sighed, "I''m useless as a father. I''m so sorry for you. Apart from money, I can''t give you anything."


    "Father, I don''t blame you."


    Li Ziye looked at the lake with a melancholic expression and said, "Money can make the devil be the worker. Didn''t Old Zhang compromise? When Old Qin comes, we''ll give her whatever she wants. If that doesn''t work, we''ll smash her with mountains of gold and silver. I don''t believe she won''t be moved."

 Chapter 2 – Pure and graceful Qin Enuo

    Three days later, outside Yuzhou City.


    Sword Qi came from the east, sweeping across a hundred meters.


    Soon after, plum blossoms filled the sky, and an elegant and extraordinary figure stepped on the sword, with a grand and imposing manner.


    Inside Yuzhou City, the people looked at Plum Blossom Sword Immortal descending from the sky, their faces filled with admiration and respect.


    With a gentle breeze, the plum blossoms scattered, and Qin E''nuo landed on the ground, putting away her ancient sword.


    In sight, the woman appeared like a fairy from another world, with picturesque features and an unreal beauty. She wore a white dress that was untainted by dust, pure and flawless.


    Among the bustling crowd, Li Ziye, who had nothing better to do, watched Qin E''nuo''s grand entrance and enthusiastically joined in, waving his arms and shouting loudly.


    "..."


    "..."


    Perhaps Li Ziye shouted too loudly, as the people around turned their heads and looked at him like he was an idiot, instinctively taking a step back.


    As a result, Li Ziye became the most eye-catching person in the crowd.


    Seeing the situation, Li Ziye''s expression froze, and he forcibly swallowed the last word.


    What''s wrong? Why isn''t anyone shouting anymore?


    Don''t all important figures make their entrance like this? I''m just cooperating!


    "Isn''t this Li Baiwan''s son? Why is he an idiot?"


    "I don''t know, I''ve never heard that Li Baiwan''s son is an idiot."


    "You guys don''t understand anything. This Young Master Li is a genius. Geniuses are always a bit different. It''s called having character."


    In the crowd, someone recognized Li Ziye and whispered to others. Some were puzzled, while others admired.


    Of course, those who admired were obviously talking nonsense.


    "..."


    Li Ziye was speechless. Sensing that things were not going well, he covered his face and left dejectedly.


    How embarrassing!


    In front of the crowd, Qin E''nuo glanced at Li Ziye, who was leaving in embarrassment, with a thoughtful look in her eyes.


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    ***


    Li Residence, Li Ziye returned. By the lake in the backyard, Slovenly Zhang, who was meditating with his eyes closed, asked without opening his eyes, "Did you see her?"


    Li Ziye awkwardly touched his nose and said, "Yes, I saw her."


    "How is it? Is Qin E''nuo suitable to be your master?" Slovenly Zhang said indifferently.


    Li Ziye stopped in his tracks and stared at the old man in front of him for a long time before saying, "Old Zhang, are you mocking me?"


    "Yes." Slovenly Zhang nodded.


    "Slovenly Zhang, you''re someone who sells your integrity for ten jars of Intoxicated Blossom Brew, and yet you have the audacity to mock others."


    Li Ziye sneered and then sat down next to Slovenly Zhang, lying down, and asked, "Old Zhang, is Old Qin really as powerful as you say, despite her young age?"


    "Martial arts cannot be judged solely by age."


    Slovenly Zhang calmly said with his eyes closed, "You have to admit that there are people in this world called geniuses, and Qin E''nuo is the genius among geniuses."


    "I''m really envious." Li Ziye sighed.


    "Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. It''s not something you can force, and you don''t need to be too obsessed." Slovenly Zhang said.


    "What are my strengths?" Li Ziye asked.


    Slovenly Zhang fell silent, and after a long time, he finally spoke, "You look decent, worthy of being called ''gold and jade on the outside.''"


    "Slovenly Zhang, your skill in insulting people is getting better and better. I admire you."


    Li Ziye said with a smirk. This old man didn''t even use curse words when insulting people. "Gold and jade on the outside," isn''t the next line "rubbish on the inside"?


    "What''s wrong? Am I wrong?" Slovenly Zhang said calmly.


    "I heard that another young maid from the mansion voluntarily entered your room last night. How about it, is your virgin body still intact?"


    Li Ziye said irritably, "It''s not my fault that I look good. I''m also troubled by it."


    "You''re really asking for a beating with those words." Slovenly Zhang said.


    "Slovenly Zhang, I''ve made up my mind!"


    Li Ziye suddenly sat up straight, his expression determined, "I must worship Old Qin as my master, succeed in the path of martial arts, and then become famous and invincible."


    Slovenly Zhang opened his eyes, looked at the young man in front of him for a while, and asked, "Are you serious?"


    "Of course."


    Li Ziye nodded.


    "Youth is truly wonderful."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed, "Even daydreams are said with such grandeur."


    "..."


    This old man is really bad, Li Ziye couldn''t be bothered to pay him any attention.


    "Young Master, Old Sir is calling for you."


    At this moment, a servant hurriedly walked over and said anxiously.


    "What''s the matter?" Li Ziye asked.


    "The Sword Immortal, Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, has arrived." The servant said.


    "Old... Old Qin?"


    Li Ziye stood up in surprise when he heard this, "So soon."


    After speaking, Li Ziye immediately walked quickly towards the front yard.


    "Indeed, young people can''t hold back their excitement."


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang closed his eyes again and said calmly.


    ***


    In the front yard, inside the main hall.


    Li Baiwan accompanied Qin E''nuo with a bootlicker-like expression, all for the sake of his son''s apprenticeship. It was all nonsense.


    "Fairy, this tea suits your taste."


    "Fairy, I also have the best Cloud Mist Tea."


    "Fairy, would you like some wine? I have ten-year-old Intoxicated Blossom Brew and Daughter''s Red, which is twenty years old."


    "Fairy..."


    "Fairy..."


    When Li Ziye arrived at the main hall, he saw his father''s bootlicking appearance and wished he could stuff him into a crack in the ground.


    So embarrassing!"Fairy, after traveling for so many days, you must be tired. I have learned a few massage techniques from the doctor in the residence. Would you like me to help relieve your fatigue?" Li Ziye quickly stepped forward with a smile as bright as a blooming flower.


    "No need."


    Qin E''nuo was not fooled by the father and son''s act, her expression indifferent as she said, "I assume you both understand the purpose of my visit. The conditions for becoming my disciple are simple: pass my test and you can become my student."


    "What test?" Li Ziye immediately became alert and asked.


    Beside them, Li Baiwan also approached, listening attentively.


    "Don''t block me, your face is too big."


    Li Ziye pushed Li Baiwan''s face away without a good temper.


    Li Baiwan smiled apologetically and took two steps back.


    "Three tasks."


    Qin E''nuo glanced at the strange father and son and calmly said, "Complete three tasks, and I will acknowledge that you have passed the test."


    "Three tasks?" Li Ziye''s mind tightened. There were so many tasks; it wouldn''t be easy to deceive Old Qin.


    "Of course, I won''t make you complete all three tasks immediately. I will give you time. Today, I am here to tell you about the first task."


    Qin E''nuo stood up and said calmly, "The first task is to find or forge a sword within one day. It must be crafted with exceptional skill and be extraordinary."


    After speaking, Qin E''nuo didn''t linger or give any further instructions. She walked out of the main hall and left gracefully.


    In the hall, the father and son exchanged glances, their expressions different.


    "Is Old Qin match-fixing?" Li Ziye asked with a puzzled expression.


    Who didn''t know that his father had money? Not to mention one sword, he could buy ten thousand swords.


    "Could there be something fishy? Fairy Qin said it must be crafted with exceptional skill," Li Baiwan asked with some concern.


    Li Ziye looked at him disdainfully and said, "Father, can you not be so naive? What does ''crafted with exceptional skill'' and ''extraordinary'' mean? It''s like an open-ended question. Whether the answer is correct or not, it''s all up to Old Qin."


    Speaking of this, Li Ziye suddenly seemed to remember something and asked anxiously, "By the way, Father, did you give her the silver?"


    "Look at my memory."


    Li Baiwan slapped his thigh, his stomach trembling, and regretfully said, "I was too busy entertaining Fairy Qin and forgot about it."


    "Old Li, how can you not forget to eat!"


    Li Ziye said with a resentful expression, "Quickly send someone to find out where Old Qin is staying and give her the silver!"


    "No need to find out. I had someone follow Qin E''nuo when she entered the city."


    Just then, a beautiful woman with a graceful figure walked into the hall. Li Baiwan respectfully greeted her, "Sister Youwei."


    "Sister Youwei."


    Seeing the newcomer, Li Ziye immediately approached with a joyful smile, "Sister Youwei is the best. I can trust you with anything, unlike Father, who is unreliable."


    Li Youwei smiled lightly and said softly, "Little brother has good taste. Qin E''nuo looks good and has a nice figure. She seems well-nurtured. She''s got a big ass, too. Must be great at giving birth.First, become her disciple, then conquer her. It''s a good plan."


    Li Ziye: "..."


    Li Baiwan: "..."


    "Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye quickly changed the subject and said, "Since you have been following Old Qin, did you find out where she is staying?"


    "West of the city, Yuelai Inn. Our family''s property is nothing special, except for one word: expensive! This shows that Fairy Qin is a person who pays attention to details," Li Youwei said.


    "If she pays attention to details, it''s easy to handle. Father, did you hear that clearly?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye immediately turned around and shouted, "Hurry up and prepare a gift. It must be valuable, the more valuable the better. We must let Old Qin feel our sincerity."


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    "I''ll go now."


    Li Baiwan smiled apologetically and left the hall to make preparations.


    Seeing his father leave, Li Ziye turned to his elder sister in the hall and smiled, "Sister Youwei, I''ll trouble you to deliver the gift to Old Qin later. I don''t trust anyone else."


    "Okay."


    Li Youwei nodded and softly replied, "Your matters are the most important to the Li Residence."


    At sunset, when the sun was setting in the west, Li Youwei arrived alone at Yuelai Inn.


    "Knock, knock."


    She knocked on the door, and then Qin E''nuo opened it.


    "Li Youwei, Li Ziye''s elder sister," Li Youwei got straight to the point and introduced herself.


    "What''s the matter?" Qin E''nuo asked.


    Li Youwei approached without any nonsense, placed the package she was carrying on the ground, and opened three boxes one by one.


    "Night Pearl from the Eastern Sea, found in the depths of the Eastern Sea, worth ten thousand gold."


    "Heavenly Silkworm Soft Armor, impervious to blades and fire, worth one million gold."


    "Fish Intestine Sword, once owned by Duke Wei in ancient times, priceless treasure."


    The three boxes displayed three priceless treasures, and Li Youwei put down the items without lingering and prepared to leave.


    Before leaving, Li Youwei turned around and asked only one question, "Does the Fairy have any guidance?"


    Qin E''nuo remained silent for a moment before speaking, "Do your best is enough."


    Li Youwei nodded without asking any further questions and left.


    The night was long. Li Ziye stood in the courtyard, looking at the night sky. After a long time, he was filled with poetic inspiration.


    "Ah, money can make the devil be the worker. Ah, money can make the worker be the devil!"


    "My son is truly a genius!"


    In the room, Li Baiwan looked at his son through the window, his face filled with pride.


    ***


    The next day, at the agreed time.


    All eyes were on them as plum blossoms danced in the sky. The Fairy arrived, stepping on the sword, her appearance transcendent and untainted by the mortal world.


    She seemed like an ice and snow fairy descending to the mortal world, so perfect, so ethereal, so pure as jade.In the grand hall, Li Ziye took out a pure gold-cast treasure sword and handed it over.


    The golden light was dazzling, extremely blinding.


    Qin E''nuo took the golden treasure sword, gazed at it for a long time, then nodded with a calm expression, praising:


    "Not bad, the art of sword cultivation lies not in the sword itself, but in the cultivation. At the highest realm, even falling flowers and leaves can be swords. Being too obsessed with external objects will only lead to inferior achievements. Your answer is very good, you''ve passed the test."


    Li Baiwan: "......"


    Li Ziye: "......"

 Chapter 3 – Innocent Li Youwei

    The first level was passed, so rash, so intriguing.


    Li Ziye would not admit that he gave a gift.


    Qin E''nuo would not admit that she let him pass because she received a gift.


    At sunset, Qin E''nuo left and before leaving, she mentioned the second test.


    Create a set of swordsmanship within a day.


    "A freebie question."


    After hearing this, Li Ziye only said three words.


    Even the people of Yuzhou City are spreading the word that he created a set of swordsmanship named Tai Chi when he was ten years old. This question is a freebie.


    Old Qin went to great lengths to let him pass.


    "Son, are you confident?"


    Li Baiwan saw his son''s relaxed appearance and became excited.


    "Ten out of ten."


    Li Ziye casually waved his hand and then went to the backyard to continue fishing.


    "Passed?"


    In the backyard, by the lake, Slovenly Zhang was still meditating with his eyes closed. Sensing Li Ziye''s arrival, he asked.


    "Passed."


    Li Ziye nodded.


    "Just with that broken sword made of gold?"


    This time, it was Slovenly Zhang who was surprised. Opening his eyes, he asked.


    "Of course, it''s impossible."


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    Li Ziye smirked and said, "Yesterday, Sister Youwei brought Old Qin an Eastern Sea Night Pearl, a Heavenly Silkworm Soft Armor, and that Fish Intestine Sword. My Old Li really went all out this time."


    "Fish Intestine Sword?"


    Slovenly Zhang sat up in shock and exclaimed, "The Fish Intestine Sword was actually in the Li Residence?"


    "Of course."


    Li Ziye picked up a stone and threw it into the lake, saying, "If we don''t bring out some family treasures, how could Old Qin let him pass?"


    "Admire, admire."


    Slovenly Zhang truly admired this time and sighed, "Indeed, money can make the devil be the worker. Qin E''nuo, such an extraordinary and elegant person, can''t escape the norm."


    "We''re all human, no need to pretend."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Old Qin is indeed not an ordinary person, so the price we offered is also extraordinary."


    "What about the second test?" Slovenly Zhang asked curiously.


    "Create a set of swordsmanship within a day," Li Ziye said.


    "..."


    Slovenly Zhang was speechless. He may have had some doubts just now, but now he was certain that Qin E''nuo was letting him pass.


    "I don''t understand, I don''t understand."


    Slovenly Zhang looked at the shimmering lake in front of him and said, "Qin E''nuo has always cherished her reputation. Isn''t she afraid of taking in a playboy as a disciple and ruining her reputation?"


    "Of course she''s afraid, otherwise why would she leave the Great Shang Dynasty for half a journey and still not make a decision?"


    Li Ziye chuckled softly and said, "I went to great lengths to spread rumors. It''s not just because I have a lot of money to burn."


    "So what?"


    Slovenly Zhang frowned and said, "Qin E''nuo won''t believe that you''re the legendary genius just based on rumors."


    "She came, so she believed, at least, believed in part."


    A strange smile appeared on Li Ziye''s lips as he said, "Old Zhang, you don''t understand. This is called psychological suggestion. Why were there so many foolish emperors throughout history? Were they really unable to distinguish right from wrong? Of course not. There were slanderous rumors from treacherous officials and guiding words from favored concubines. Many times, even if they didn''t believe, they believed."


    Speaking up to this point, Li Ziye picked up another stone and threw it into the lake, saying, "In fact, the test Old Qin gave today has already been influenced by rumors. Creating a set of swordsmanship within a day is difficult even for a swordsmanship grandmaster. Old Qin had doubts and naturally wanted to see if it was true. If it is true, a peerless genius like me, who is also so sensible, is worth taking as a disciple."


    Beside him, Slovenly Zhang listened to the words of the young man beside him and fell silent. After a long time, he spoke, "Kid, I really underestimated you before. Your strengths are not just your appearance and family background."


    This kid''s ability to speculate on human hearts is truly terrifying.


    It''s not that Qin E''nuo is letting him pass, but this kid is guiding Qin E''nuo to let him pass.


    "Actually, Old Zhang, you didn''t underestimate me."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Most things in the world can be solved with money. If money can''t solve it, I still have this appearance. Look, with my appearance, don''t I look intimidating? There''s a saying, ''Good-looking people are not far from being bad-looking.'' If I stand on the street and say that I''m a talentless waste without any cultivation talent, who would believe it?"


    As he spoke, Li Ziye stood by the lake with his head held high and his chest puffed out. The breeze brushed past, his black hair fluttered, his eyebrows were like swords, his eyes were like stars. What a jade-like person, a young master without equal.


    Slovenly Zhang fell silent. This kid was right. Judging from his appearance, this kid was truly intimidating. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been mistaken before.


    Among cultivators, apart from those who focus on training their bodies, most of them are good-looking, especially those geniuses from the immortal sects. Even if their appearance is slightly lacking, the accumulated temperament over the years is enough to make up for it.


    Just like him, when he was young, he was also a handsome young man who was adored by countless girls.


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and felt a bit of schadenfreude.


    Qin E''nuo is going to fall!


    This is truly a delightful thing.


    Who wouldn''t want to see a fairy lose her composure and an emperor get beaten up?


    It''s really unimaginable what expression Qin E''nuo would have when she finds out that this kid can''t cultivate martial arts."By the way, Old Zhang, what do you think about the matter I mentioned to you earlier?" Li Ziye changed the topic and asked.


    "Entering the Li Residence and becoming an important guest of the Li Family?"


    Slovenly Zhang smiled faintly and said, "Kid, the Li Residence does have a lot of silver and plenty of fine wine, but I''m used to being free. No matter how good a place is, I can''t stay for long. Besides, your Li Family focuses on business and has enough henchmen to deal with most troubles. There''s no need to spend a lot of money to keep an old slovenly guy like me."


    "That was in the past."


    A glimmer of coldness flashed in Li Ziye''s calm eyes as he said, "The tallest tree that stands out in the forest will be destroyed by the wind. Ten years ago, the Li Family was just a wealthier merchant family that no one cared about. But now, the wealth that the Li Residence possesses has made many people jealous, including the Lord of Great Shang in the capital. According to the latest information, the Third Prince Mu Yao has come to Yuzhou City. I estimate that he wants to find an opportunity to target our Li Family."


    "Listening to what you''re saying, the Li Residence is indeed in danger. In that case, this old man should consider it more carefully."


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and said, "Being targeted by the royal family is not a good thing. Your old man is not young anymore, and you, as his son, are always idle and never take care of the family affairs. Once your old man encounters any trouble, it will be difficult for your seemingly innocent sworn sister to handle such a large Li Family."


    "Innocent?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback, then a strange expression appeared on his face.


    Sister Youwei?


    That''s such an appropriate description!


    Li Residence, study room.


    Li Baiwan looked at the account books brought by Li Youwei, briefly glanced at them, and then put them down.


    "You''ve done well."


    Li Baiwan smiled and said, "These years, you have surpassed your adoptive father in your business acumen."


    "It''s all thanks to my younger brother."


    Li Youwei said softly, "If it weren''t for the inventions he made, such as perfume, soap, and mirrors, which are things that don''t exist in this world, the Li Residence would still be just an ordinary merchant family."


    "Unfortunately, Ziye''s ambition lies elsewhere."


    Li Baiwan sighed softly and said, "Since he was young, he has wanted to pursue the path of martial arts and has never been interested in business."


    "As long as it''s something my younger brother wants, even if it''s a star in the sky, I will pick it for him." Li Youwei said slowly.


    "You always spoil him like this."


    Li Baiwan helplessly said, "Youwei, do you know about the Third Prince Mu Yao coming to Yuzhou City?"


    "I know." Li Youwei nodded.


    "He came, most likely on the orders of the Lord of Great Shang, to investigate our Li Family." Li Baiwan said.


    "He won''t find out anything." Li Youwei said calmly.


    "Also."


    Li Baiwan said slowly, "Mu Yao is skilled in swordsmanship. He probably wants to become a disciple of Qin E''nuo."


    Upon hearing this, a strong chill filled Li Youwei''s calm eyes, and she said word by word, "I will have someone kill him, ensuring that it''s clean and leaving no trace."


    "..."


    Li Baiwan smiled bitterly and said, "Don''t be so impulsive just because of Ziye. He must have already known about this matter. If he hasn''t made a move, it means he is confident in defeating that Third Prince. What you need to do is be more cautious and not let this person find out things that we don''t want the royal family to know."


    "Yes, adoptive father."


    Li Youwei nodded and did not argue further.


    At night, under the bright moonlight, the night was enchanting.


    At Yuelai Inn, a knocking sound was heard, followed by a young man dressed in a brocade robe and handsome appearance entering Qin E''nuo''s room.


    The person who came was the current Third Prince of Great Shang, Mu Yao.


    Mu Yao held a wooden box in his hand, and inside the box was an ancient sword displayed. The sword was sheathed, but a cold aura could be felt.


    "Fairy, this is my answer." Mu Yao said seriously.


    "Cold Light, a famous sword."


    Qin E''nuo glanced at the ancient sword in the box, didn''t look any further, and calmly said, "You have passed this test."


    Although Mu Yao was pleased to hear this, his face remained calm, showing no joy or anger.


    This first test was not difficult, the key was the attitude of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal.


    If she was willing, even a piece of scrap iron could pass the test.


    He was the Third Prince of Great Shang, and even the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal had to give him some face. The first test would not be too difficult.


    As for him voluntarily offering the famous sword Cold Light, it was to leave a good impression on the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal and lay the foundation for the next two tests.


    "You should also know about the second test."


    Qin E''nuo looked at the Third Prince of Great Shang and calmly said, "Wait for me at the Li Residence before sunset tomorrow."


    "The Li Residence?"


    Mu Yao''s expression froze upon hearing this. He wanted to say something but swallowed his words, bowed respectfully, and then left the room.


    Inside the room, the candlelight flickered. Qin E''nuo stood by the window, looking at the quiet night of Yuzhou City, her peerless beauty devoid of any worldly aura.


    Behind Qin E''nuo, two wooden boxes were quietly placed on the table. Inside the boxes were the swords Cold Light and Fish Intestine, two famous swords that emitted a strong cold aura under the candlelight.


    ***


    The long night passed silently.


    The next day, the sun rose, and thin clouds covered the sun.


    The Li Residence welcomed the most distinguished guest in its history.The Third Prince of the Great Shang, Mu Yao.


    "What a great honor, what a great honor indeed!"


    In the front hall, Li Baiwan personally received him, his face blooming with joy, his big belly shaking with laughter.


    Mu Yao looked at the richest man in the Great Shang Royal Dynasty before him, treating him with equal courtesy, responding with a smile on his face.


    After chatting for a while, Mu Yao glanced outside and smiled, "I wonder if your son is at home?"


    "My son?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Baiwan''s smile grew even brighter, "My son is a bit crude, I was afraid he might startle your highness, so I didn''t let him come to the front yard. But since your highness wishes to see him, I will send someone to call him right away."


    After saying this, Li Baiwan stood up and shouted outside, "Go and call the young master, tell him the Third Prince wishes to see him."


    "Yes!" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Outside the hall, the servant took the order and quickly walked towards the back yard.


    "The Third Prince wants to see me?"


    In the backyard, by the lake, Li Ziye, who was fishing, heard the servant''s report. The corners of his mouth curved up, his smile as brilliant as a blooming flower.

 Chapter 4 – The Tai Chi Sword Taught by Immortals

    Li Residence, main hall in the front yard.


    Li Ziye has arrived.


    Dressed in exquisite Yunzhou clothing, with a waist adorned with Eastern Sea jadeite, his face as beautiful as jade, he looks like a celestial being.


    Just by his appearance and temperament, Li Ziye is truly outstanding and impressive.


    A quick look at "pawread dot com" will leave you more fulfilled.


    Even the holy sons and holy maidens of the immortal sects would probably not surpass him.


    In short, Li Ziye looks remarkable, excellent, and intimidating.


    In the hall, the Third Prince Mu Yao sees Li Ziye''s extraordinary temperament, and his eyes also flash with a glimmer.


    What a pride of the Li Family, Li Ziye''s reputation is indeed well-deserved.


    The rumors about Yuzhou City and the Great Shang Dynasty are not groundless.


    "This must be Brother Ziye."


    Before Li Ziye can speak, Mu Yao stands up and approaches him with a smile, being very polite.


    "I, Li Ziye, pay my respects to the Third Royal Highness."


    Li Ziye looks anxious and prepares to bow, flipping the hem of his clothes and sleeves, appearing solemn as if he wants to perform a grand ceremony of three kowtows and nine bows. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Brother Ziye, there''s no need for such formalities."


    Mu Yao supports him and smiles, saying, "This is not the palace, so we can skip the complicated etiquette."


    This is the Li Residence, and he naturally cannot let the young master of the Li Family perform such a grand ceremony.


    "Thank you, Third Royal Highness."


    Li Ziye, who had no intention of bowing, straightens his body and smiles brightly.


    "Brother Ziye, please."


    Mu Yao returns to his seat and looks at the young man sitting across from him, saying, "Before coming to Yuzhou City, I had already heard of Brother Ziye''s name. Today, I see that your demeanor is truly extraordinary."


    "Third Royal Highness, you flatter me. Your wise name is known throughout the world, and I have long admired it." Li Ziye says softly.


    Their conversation sounds sincere, but as competitors who both want to become Qin E''nuo''s disciple, these exchanges are truly hypocritical.


    "I heard that Brother Ziye has exceptional swordsmanship. I wonder if you can enlighten me." Mu Yao takes a sip of tea and says.


    "In front of the Third Royal Highness, how can I claim to understand the sword." Li Ziye smiles.


    "Brother Ziye, there''s no need to be modest. Nowadays, almost everyone in the Great Shang Dynasty knows that you are a sword genius. At the age of ten, you created your own sword technique. Even that senior Sword Enthusiast praised your talent." Mu Yao says softly.


    "Rumors are just rumors."


    Li Ziye laughs, "Compared to the Third Royal Highness, who is truly a master of the sword, I am just a flickering firefly. How can I compete with the radiant moon like you?"


    "Hehe, hehe."


    Sitting in the main seat, Li Baiwan listens to their conversation and just smiles without saying a word.


    Mu Yao puts down his teacup and furrows his brows.


    These father and son are really hard to deal with.


    "Third Royal Highness, how many Divine Hidden Techniques have you unlocked?" Li Ziye takes a sip of tea and suddenly asks.


    On the path of martial arts, self-cultivation is important. A person has five viscera, which are the main source of the five vital energies.


    Practitioners call them the Five Divine Techniques!


    It is said that there are great cultivators in the world who have unlocked all five divine techniques and possess the ability to level mountains and cross seas.


    "The second Divine Hidden Technique." Mu Yao doesn''t hide anything and answers truthfully.


    Li Ziye''s face shows envy at his words. What a gap.


    "What about Brother Ziye?" Mu Yao also asks.


    "One Divine Hidden Technique remains locked." Li Ziye smiles.


    Mu Yao is slightly surprised and says, "Brother Ziye, you''re joking."


    "In front of the Third Royal Highness, how can I joke." Li Ziye smiles and says, "That''s why I''m so eager to become Plum Blossom Sword Immortal''s disciple. I hope the Third Royal Highness can fulfill my wish."


    Hearing this, Mu Yao squints his eyes and after a moment, he calmly says, "This matter should be decided by Fairy Qin herself. It''s not something you and I can control, right?"


    "What the Third Royal Highness said is true."


    Li Ziye puts down his teacup and smiles, "Regardless of the outcome, I hope the Third Royal Highness can stay in Yuzhou City for a few more days, so that the Li Residence can fulfill its duties as a host."


    "I shall follow your wishes."


    Mu Yao doesn''t refuse and politely agrees.


    He originally had no intention of leaving so easily.


    In the past ten years, the Li Family in Yuzhou City has developed at an astonishing speed. The accumulation of wealth has made the court wary, and he must find out if the Li Family still has secrets unknown to the court.


    As for this Li Ziye, is it true that he hasn''t unlocked a single Divine Hidden Technique?


    Why?


    Facing each other across the seats, Li Ziye looks at the pensive expression of the Great Shang Third Prince and his lips curl into a slight smile.


    That old fox, the Emperor of Shang, really wants to make a move against the Li Family. In that case, during these days, the Li Family must truly fulfill its duties as a host.


    While contemplating, the two exchange smiles, quietly drink tea, and harbor their own thoughts.


    In the long wait, the sun sets in the west.


    At this moment, plum blossoms fall in the sky above the Li Residence.


    "She''s here."


    Li Ziye sees this and speaks up.


    Li Baiwan and Mu Yao both turn their heads and see plum blossoms falling all over the sky. They immediately stand up to greet her.


    After a while, above the Li Residence, sword energy soars, and Plum Blossom Fairy descends on her sword, her clothes fluttering, graceful like a fairy.


    "So imposing."


    Li Ziye looks at Qin E''nuo''s entrance and doesn''t hide his envy on his face.


    Why does he want to cultivate martial arts? Is it to fight? Of course not.


    He just wants to show off.


    Just like Old Qin, wherever she goes, she is awe-inspiring.


    After two breaths, amidst the sword energy, Qin E''nuo descends from the sky and walks in front of the three.


    "Fairy."


    Li Baiwan still has the appearance of a bootlicker, his face full of flattery and a smile as he steps forward to bow.


    Mu Yao is more serious, giving a respectful bow, displaying his royal demeanor without being humble.


    "Old... Fairy."


    The words "Old Qin" almost slip out, and Li Ziye is startled, quickly swallowing the words and bowing with his hands clasped.


    Beside him, Li Baiwan is also scared, sweating profusely and his legs trembling.


    Qin E''nuo sees the reactions of the father and son, furrows her eyebrows slightly, although she doesn''t understand what''s going on, she doesn''t ask further and calmly says, "There''s no need for pleasantries, let''s begin."


    Mu Yao and Li Ziye exchange a glance and speak, "Brother Ziye, please?""Dare not, dare not, Third Royal Highness, please go first." Li Ziye courteously said.


    "Very well."


    Mu Yao did not decline, taking a sword from the servant behind him.


    The moment he held the sword, Mu Yao''s aura changed. From a gentle and elegant prince, he transformed into a sharp sword.


    The sword moved, like a thunderbolt, like a long rainbow. The sword in Mu Yao''s hand was like a green light, and in the blink of an eye, he had already executed ten moves in succession.


    "Son, how is his swordsmanship?"


    Li Baiwan secretly poked Li Ziye''s arm and asked in a low voice.


    "I don''t understand, but it seems very powerful."


    Li Ziye also replied in a very low voice.


    "The sword is like a startled swan, indeed not bad."


    On the side, Qin E''nuo seemed to have heard their conversation and calmly said, "The Third Prince of Great Shang has the potential to become a Sword Immortal."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye and Li Baiwan looked at each other, both with surprise in their eyes.


    Old Qin seemed to think highly of the Third Prince, which was not a good thing.


    Could it be that Old Qin had taken a liking to the Third Prince?


    That would not do.


    "However."


    Just as the two were feeling uneasy, Qin E''nuo''s tone changed and she honestly evaluated, "Although his swordsmanship is good, unfortunately, most of his moves are predictable and not self-created."


    "Cough, all martial arts in the world converge to the same path, similarities are not strange. I believe that these moves must have cost the Third Royal Highness some effort."


    Seeing Old Qin''s tone change, Li Ziye cleared his throat and hypocritically praised the Third Prince, fully demonstrating his magnanimity.


    Qin E''nuo glanced at him, watched him for a moment, then withdrew her gaze and nodded, "Perhaps, since you speak for him, then he has passed this round."


    Li Ziye twitched the corner of his mouth and immediately slapped himself.


    Serves you right for being foul-mouthed!


    "It''s your turn."


    Qin E''nuo''s mouth curved slightly as she spoke.


    Li Ziye reined in his regretful emotions, took a sword from the servant boy behind him, and then stepped forward.


    At this moment, Mu Yao sheathed his sword and walked over.


    The two passed by each other, their gazes fiercely colliding, but neither of them said a word.


    Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Li Ziye drew his sword, his expression becoming serious.


    Following that, the sword rose.


    In the backyard by the lake, Slovenly Zhang raised his head, looked in the direction of the front yard, and smiled faintly.


    Tai Chi, the sword of a grandmaster.


    If he hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, he would never believe that such a unique sword technique came from that boy.


    Did that boy create Tai Chi? Maybe he did, maybe he didn''t, but he, the old man, didn''t believe it.


    There must be something strange about this, but since the boy wouldn''t say, he couldn''t guess.


    Qin E''nuo, don''t be fooled by this boy.


    In the front yard.


    As Tai Chi began, the sword was round and complete, a sword of no desire, no demand, no contention, fully displaying the demeanor of a grandmaster.


    Between the sword moves, Li Ziye''s steps turned, fast and slow, constantly switching at exquisite timing points.


    Mu Yao was stunned, his face full of shock and disbelief.


    How is this possible!


    "Tai Chi."


    Qin E''nuo softly uttered two words, her expression also filled with shock. Was this the sword technique rumored in those whispers?


    Under their shocked gazes, the sword in Li Ziye''s hand changed faster and faster, defending tightly and attacking fiercely.


    Vaguely, above Li Ziye, the sound of wind and thunder rang out, and the light of dawn fluctuated.


    Qin E''nuo looked up, watching the phenomena in the sky that ordinary people could not perceive, her expression becoming even more shocked.


    Heaven and Earth bearing witness!


    She hadn''t seen such a phenomenon for many years.


    The last time such a phenomenon appeared was when the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple in the Western Regions revealed the Divine Oracle Scripture. That day, the temple was filled with wind and thunder, shaking heaven and earth.


    Compared to that, the current phenomenon was much weaker, but one must know that the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple was a great cultivator who had opened the Five Divine Techniques.


    This boy, his talent is astonishing, his future is limitless!


    Qin E''nuo watched Li Ziye under the wind and thunder, and affirmed in her heart.


    After a long time, under everyone''s gaze, Li Ziye sheathed his sword, and the wind and thunder phenomenon disappeared.


    "Is this sword technique really created by you?"


    Qin E''nuo came back from her shock and asked.


    "In a dream, it was taught by a fairy."


    Li Ziye showed a smile, half-truthfully and half-falsely replied.


    Qin E''nuo heard this, nodded, and didn''t ask any more.


    There are no fairies in this world, even if they are Sword Immortals, this fairy is not that fairy.


    "Fairy, did he pass?"


    Li Baiwan asked with a hopeful face.


    "He passed."


    Qin E''nuo replied, her gaze sweeping over Li Ziye and Mu Yao, and slowly said, "The final test."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye immediately perked up his ears.


    Mu Yao also listened attentively, a trace of tension rising in his heart.


    "Tomorrow at this time, the two of you will compete. The winner, I will take as my disciple." Qin E''nuo calmly said.


    Li Ziye''s expression became serious, his thoughts sinking.


    On the contrary, a smile appeared on Mu Yao''s face, and he let out a sigh of relief in his heart.


    He was sure to win!


    "Fairy!"


    Li Baiwan was a bit anxious, took a step forward, and said in a deep voice, "This is unfair to Ziye."


    "Fair?"


    Qin E''nuo said indifferently, "Where in the world is there absolute fairness? The victor is the king, the loser is the bandit, that is fairness. Prepare well, tomorrow at this time, the winner, I will take as my disciple."

 Chapter 5 – Not humble, not arrogant, Slovenly Zhang

    Sunset, the bright moon rose in the east.


    By the lakeside in the backyard, two figures sat there. The lake water reflected the moonlight, shimmering and tranquil.


    "Old Zhang."


    Li Ziye looked at the lake and asked, "Even you can''t do anything about it?"


    "No."


    Slovenly Zhang shook his head and said, "Mu Yao has already activated his second Divine Hidden Technique, while you haven''t activated any. The gap is too big."


    "My family has silver."


    Li Ziye said softly, "However much you need, we have. Divine weapons, battle armors, we have them all."


    "That''s impossible, unless..."


    Slovenly Zhang stared at the lake and calmly said, "You have him killed tonight."


    "That makes sense."


    Li Ziye thought for a moment, then nodded seriously, "Old Zhang, name your price."


    "Heh."


    Slovenly Zhang gave a faint smile, "I''m not that despicable."


    "One hundred jars of Hundred Flower Brew." Li Ziye made an offer.


    "That''s the Third Prince of the Great Shang."


    Slovenly Zhang sneered, "Do you think I''m a fool?"


    "Two hundred." Li Ziye raised the price.


    "Absolutely impossible." Slovenly Zhang shook his head.


    "Five hundred." Li Ziye directly increased the price.


    "I don''t like killing." Slovenly Zhang was silent for a moment before speaking.


    "One thousand jars, plus five hundred jars of top-quality Daughter''s Red." Li Ziye stated his final offer.


    "Deal."


    Slovenly Zhang stood up and walked away.


    "Old Zhang."


    From behind, Li Ziye called out.


    Slovenly Zhang turned around and asked, "What, having second thoughts?"


    "Not really."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Just don''t kill him. It''s not time to completely fall out with the royal family. Just let him lie in bed for a few days."


    "Coward."


    Slovenly Zhang sneered and walked away.


    ***


    Late at night.


    In a room at the Yuelai Inn, Mu Yao sat under the candlelight, quietly wiping his sword.


    In front of the bed, the servant boy made the bed and said, "Your Highness, you should rest early."


    "Okay."


    Mu Yao nodded and said, "You can go now."


    "Yes."


    The servant boy was about to leave, but then stopped, looking worried, "Your Highness, shouldn''t we contact the officials in Yuzhou City? I''m worried that the Li Family might harm you."


    "No."


    Mu Yao smiled faintly, "We are all smart people who understand the rules. The Li Family will surely understand that if anything happens to me here, they won''t be able to escape the blame."


    The servant boy left the room, reassured.


    Mu Yao put away his sword, prepared to blow out the candle and go to bed.


    Suddenly, a cold wind blew, causing the candle to flicker.


    Mu Yao was startled, and his face changed drastically.


    The wind rose, and the room was shaken open by an invisible force. In the blink of an eye, a figure walked in. His steps seemed unhurried, but in a breath, he was already inside the room.


    "Who are you!" Mu Yao exclaimed.


    "The one who killed you."


    The man wore a mask, his aura concealed. However, the terrifying pressure he exuded was suffocating.


    Knowing the terror of the intruder, Mu Yao retreated while shouting desperately.


    "Qin E''nuo, huh?"


    Under the mask, Slovenly Zhang smiled faintly, his figure flashed, and he grabbed the former''s throat.


    In the room on the third floor, Qin E''nuo heard the cry for help from downstairs, her eyes narrowed slightly.


    In the blink of an eye, Qin E''nuo moved and disappeared from the room.


    On the second floor, Slovenly Zhang grabbed the Third Prince''s throat and slowly tightened his grip.


    "I am the Third Prince of the Great Shang Dynasty. If you kill me, you won''t survive!" Mu Yao said in terror.


    Slovenly Zhang didn''t waste any words, he directly punched the former in the chest.


    With a powerful punch, the Genuine Qi penetrated into the body. Mu Yao felt a tightness in his chest and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Just then, a sword aura came from behind them.


    Slovenly Zhang let go of the man in his hand, his figure shifted, and he dodged the sword aura.


    Mu Yao''s body went limp and collapsed. Then, the sword aura passed by, and a strand of long hair silently fell.


    In the room, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang''s eyes met, creating a strong oppressive atmosphere.


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, you live up to your reputation. See you again."


    Slovenly Zhang calmly said, then stepped forward and leaped out of the window.


    Qin E''nuo frowned, her figure also flashed, and she chased after him.


    Under the night sky, on the streets of Yuzhou City, two figures moved swiftly. In the blink of an eye, they had crossed several streets.


    Ahead, Slovenly Zhang stepped on the air, leaped onto the roofs on both sides of the street, then pointed his fingers together to form a sword, and the sword aura broke through the air.


    Qin E''nuo concentrated, waved her slender hand, and the sword aura gathered, blocking the attack.


    "Sword Enthusiast!"


    After the initial exchange, Qin E''nuo recognized the identity of the man. In Yuzhou City, the only one with such swordsmanship could only be him.


    "Oh, good eyesight."


    On the roof, Slovenly Zhang laughed and teased, "How did the renowned Plum Blossom Sword Immortal become a royal bodyguard?"


    Qin E''nuo sneered, responding without showing any weakness, "I didn''t expect that the world-famous Sword Enthusiast would stoop to being a hired killer. Who''s your master, Li Ziye?"


    "Heh."Zhang Latan smiled faintly and said, "You really think highly of that kid. I, old man, am not someone who is greedy for wealth. Although the Li Residence is wealthy, they cannot buy my freedom."


    "Not the Li Residence?"


    Qin E''nuo frowned, curious. Besides the Li Residence, who else would target the Third Prince?


    "Qin E''nuo, do you still want to fight? If not, I''ll leave," Zhang Latan laughed heartily and took another step, leaping away.


    Qin E''nuo stood on the street, her eyes filled with flowing light, but she did not chase after him.


    Her cultivation was not much different from Sword Enthusiast''s. Unless they fought to the death, it would be difficult to keep him.


    Who exactly was able to command Sword Enthusiast?


    ***


    Li Residence.


    In the backyard, Li Ziye was still waiting patiently.


    At this moment, a figure flew past and took off the mask.


    "Old Zhang."


    Li Ziye immediately approached and asked, "Is it done?"


    "My old man made a move. How could it not be done?" Zhang Latan laughed and said, "This time, the Third Prince will need at least ten days to recover. However, aren''t you afraid of retaliation from the royal family for daring to do this?"


    "Of course, I''m afraid."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "But, in recent years, the court has begun to test and suppress my Li Family intentionally or unintentionally. It''s only a matter of time before the court makes a move against the Li Family."


    "Heh, daring to contend with the royal family. It seems that I have underestimated your Li Residence," Zhang Latan squinted his eyes and said, "Today, I''m afraid that even if I don''t make a move, someone will make a move against the Third Prince."


    "Who knows? Perhaps Heaven can''t bear to see it and will let some righteous individuals help kill the royal family''s prestige," Li Ziye smiled.


    "One thousand jars of Intoxicated Blossom Brew, plus five hundred jars of Daughter''s Red. Not a single jar less," Zhang Latan emphasized.


    "No problem."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "As long as you want to drink, I''ll offer it anytime."


    "Alright, I''ll stay with you a little longer. I have a feeling that I might be plotted against at any time," Zhang Latan waved his hand and walked towards his room.


    After Old Zhang returned to his room, Li Ziye did not stay long either and left.


    The door opened, and Li Ziye walked into the room, seeing the woman inside, a gentle smile appeared on his face.


    "Sister Youwei, why are you here?"


    "Waiting for you."


    In the room, under the flickering candlelight, Li Youwei''s beautiful face looked so captivating.


    "Waiting for me?"


    Li Ziye walked forward and asked, "Is there something, Sister Youwei?"


    "This is for you."


    Li Youwei pushed a wooden box over, and inside the box, a long sword lay quietly.


    "What is this?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "A poisoned sword."


    Li Youwei calmly said, "Colorless and tasteless poison. Once it touches blood, it will cause the person''s Genuine Qi to scatter. This poison can only last for fifteen minutes, after which the toxicity will dissipate. No one can detect it, and no one can cure it."


    "Oh?"


    Li Ziye''s eyes flashed with surprise and he said, "There''s actually such a good thing. When was it developed?"


    "Your sworn brother sent it today," Li Youwei said.


    "Second Brother?"


    Li Ziye''s mouth twitched and he said, "I thought he was dead since there has been no news from him."


    "Don''t talk nonsense. Be careful not to let him know," Li Youwei said angrily, "He won''t be polite to you. Don''t provoke him, or you''ll suffer."


    "I''m just saying since he''s not here," Li Ziye smiled helplessly and said, "Sister Youwei, thank you, and thank Second Brother for me. He doesn''t like me, so I won''t thank him in person."


    "Alright, I understand. Rest early," Li Youwei softly replied and then left.


    In the room, Li Ziye looked at the sword on the table, and a dangerous light flashed in his eyes.


    The night passed peacefully.


    The next day, everyone from the Li Residence gathered, and many influential figures from Yuzhou City were even invited to witness the final outcome.


    In the front yard, Li Ziye, Li Baiwan, and Li Youwei arrived together. The helmsman of the Li Residence was also present.


    The Li Residence was bustling with activity.


    From early morning until noon, and then to the setting sun, everyone patiently waited, attracting the attention of the entire Great Shang Royal Dynasty. They wondered what the outcome of this highly anticipated apprenticeship ceremony would be.


    Amidst the anticipation of the crowd, Qin E''nuo arrived, stepping on her sword. She was still as stunning and radiant as ever.


    If it came to temperament and appearance, Plum Blossom Sword Immortal was definitely unparalleled in the world.


    Most of the main characters had arrived, only the Third Prince was missing.


    As time passed, the influential figures from Yuzhou City who were invited by the Li Family began to grow impatient.


    "Why is the Third Prince so arrogant? Even Plum Blossom Immortal has come, yet he still hasn''t arrived."


    "Let''s wait a little longer. After all, he is a prince."


    "Prince, hmph, he''s just a prince, not the emperor. He doesn''t have that much face."


    The crowd whispered to each other, clearly having opinions about the late arrival of the Third Prince.


    However, until the sun set, the second protagonist of this martial arts competition, Mu Yao, still did not appear.


    Li Ziye, Li Baiwan, and Li Youwei knew it well, so their hearts remained calm.


    "The sun has set, and the Third Prince still hasn''t arrived?"


    "What''s going on? Why hasn''t the Third Prince come?"


    "The time has passed, and the Third Prince is actually afraid of the battle."


    Inside the Li Residence, the influential figures from Yuzhou City whispered to each other, clearly not expecting this outcome.


    "Fairy."Li Baiwan''s face was filled with smiles as he said, "The Third Prince has not arrived, what should we do?"


    "The time has come, Li Ziye has won and passed the test."


    The outcome had been predicted long ago. Qin E''nuo took a deep look at Li Ziye not far away, without any further delay, she announced the result in front of everyone.


    Upon hearing the result, Li Ziye was excited, he clenched his fist tightly, he had made it!


    Everyone''s eyes were on them, Qin E''nuo looked at him and asked seriously, "Are you willing to take me as your master?"


    "I am willing."


    A brilliant smile appeared on Li Ziye''s face, he said, "From now on, regardless of fortune or misfortune, nobility or lowliness, or any other reason, I am willing to become a disciple of Fairy Qin, forever loyal and never abandon her until the end of my life. Fairy, are you willing?"


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    Listening to the strange declaration of the man in front of her, Qin E''nuo''s eyebrows slightly furrowed, but she didn''t notice anything wrong. In front of the city''s nobles, she nodded and said, "Hmm, I am willing." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    On the side, Li Youwei heard this and smiled, her beauty was intoxicating like a blooming flower.


    He had made it, Qin E''nuo was destined to not escape from my younger brother''s palm.


    If he could marry a Sword Immortal as his wife, it wouldn''t be a bad thing, it wouldn''t be a disgrace to my younger brother.

 Chapter 6 – Reap what you sow, Li Tianjiao

    "Extra Edition! Li Ziye of the Li Family in Yuzhou City has become a disciple of Plum Blossom Sword Immortal."


    "Extra Edition! Li Ziye displays the Tai Chi Sword Technique again, and a strange phenomenon occurs with ten thousand swords bowing down."


    "Extra Edition! Plum Blossom Sword Immortal says that Li Ziye of the Li Family possesses the aura of a Sword Immortal."


    "Extra Edition! Fairy Qin is interested in becoming Dao companions with Li Ziye of the Li Family."


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, Li Ziye spewed out his tea upon hearing the rumors spread by the servant boys in the residence.


    "I didn''t ask anyone to spread this news."


    Seeing the strange look from Slovenly Zhang, Li Ziye immediately explained, "I only asked someone to spread the news that Old Qin wanted to accept me as her disciple. I really don''t know anything about being Dao companions."


    "Oh."


    Slovenly Zhang responded indifferently, "I believe you."


    Yeah, right!


    "Young Master, Fairy Qin has arrived."


    Just then, another servant boy rushed over in a hurry and said.


    "Oh no."


    Li Ziye''s expression changed, could it be that Old Qin came to question him?


    However, before Li Ziye could react, a graceful figure walked into the backyard. Her steps were not fast, but she had already arrived at the lakeside in an instant.


    Qin E''nuo glanced at Li Ziye without saying anything, then shifted her gaze to Slovenly Zhang beside him and calmly said, "So, you''re here."


    "Fairy Qin, long time no see."


    Slovenly Zhang opened his eyes and smiled lightly.


    "Not that long, we just met two days ago."


    Qin E''nuo walked forward and said, "I''m curious, why did you help him?"


    "He has money. Money can make the devil be the worker."


    Slovenly Zhang said naturally, "Didn''t you also accept his Fish Intestine Sword and Heavenly Silkworm Soft Armor and fix matches for him?"


    Qin E''nuo fell silent and after a moment, she said seriously, "I saw his talent in martial arts."


    "Martial arts talent?"


    Slovenly Zhang''s face revealed a strange smile.


    On the side, Li Ziye also coughed a few times and choked on his tea.


    "Qin E''nuo, have you not checked his meridians?" Slovenly Zhang said with a gloating expression.


    "Meridians?"


    Qin E''nuo furrowed her eyebrows and said, "Why should I check his meridians? I observed that his martial bone is extraordinary, his organs and blood are vigorous, and his hidden potential is definitely beyond ordinary people."


    "The old man and I thought the same before." Slovenly Zhang smirked.


    Upon hearing this, Qin E''nuo sensed that something was wrong. She immediately stepped forward and grabbed Li Ziye''s arm.


    Gradually, Qin E''nuo''s expression changed.


    "Haha."


    Slovenly Zhang couldn''t help but burst into laughter when he saw this.


    He had been waiting for this day for a long time.


    All eight meridians were blocked, and genuine Qi couldn''t circulate. Even if his organs and blood were vigorous, so what?


    As Li Ziye would put it, he had become a bomb ready to explode?


    "You two deceived me!"


    Qin E''nuo let go and her eyes were filled with intense coldness as she said in a cold voice.


    "We didn''t deceive you."


    Slovenly Zhang laughed loudly, "From beginning to end, neither I nor this kid said anything. It''s just that you believed too much in your own eyes and trusted those rumors."


    Li Ziye''s face also showed a hint of embarrassment. He touched his nose and felt quite embarrassed. After all, it wasn''t something to be proud of.


    Qin E''nuo clenched her delicate hand tightly, her chest trembling with anger. The look she gave the two of them seemed as if she wanted to devour them.


    "Qin E''nuo, you publicly announced in front of the entire Yuzhou City that you were accepting this kid as your disciple. It''s too late to regret now."


    Slovenly Zhang said with glee, "Or maybe you can find a way to help him open his eight meridians. Isn''t that more challenging than simply accepting a genius?"


    "Fairy."


    Li Ziye spoke up, sincerely saying, "As long as I can open my eight meridians and successfully embark on the path of martial arts, I don''t care about any cost. Old Li lacks everything except money."


    After hearing the young man''s words, Qin E''nuo gradually regained her composure from her anger. It was too late to turn back now.


    "I don''t know how to open the eight meridians." Qin E''nuo suppressed her anger and said slowly.


    Li Ziye trembled upon hearing this, and his expression turned gloomy.


    If even Qin E''nuo didn''t know how to open the eight meridians, did that mean he had no chance in martial arts?


    "There''s one more thing I need to tell you."


    Qin E''nuo sneered, "The reason I was so eager to accept a disciple was because I made a bet with the Old Ancestor of the Vermilion Bird Sect. Three years later, the disciple I accepted will have a match with his disciple. If I lose, the consequences will be unbearable for you."


    "The disciple of the Old Ancestor of the Vermilion Bird Sect is?"


    Li Ziye looked at Old Zhang and swallowed his saliva, a bad premonition rising in his heart.


    "Huo Lin''er."


    Slovenly Zhang grinned and said, "One of the four great geniuses in the world, she''s even stronger than the Third Prince."


    Li Ziye''s body trembled upon hearing this. He was doomed.


    A gentle breeze brushed past, and the atmosphere became awkward with the three of them by the lakeside.


    A hopeless situation!


    Qin E''nuo didn''t expect to have accepted a useless disciple, and Li Ziye didn''t expect that Qin E''nuo had made a bet with someone else.


    Who had tricked whom?


    For a moment, the three of them didn''t know what to say.


    "Don''t bother saving me."By the lake, Li Ziye regained his senses and said a word before jumping into the lake with a splash.


    On the shore, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang exchanged a glance and silently looked away.


    "Qin E''nuo, you better think of a solution. This kid has no bottom line. If you don''t care about anything, he will dare to admit defeat directly in the competition three years later. This kid is not afraid to do anything," Slovenly Zhang reminded.


    Bottom line? This kid has no bottom line.


    This kid never plays by the rules.


    How can a normal person dare to send someone to beat the prince on the night before the competition?


    Qin E''nuo narrowed her eyes slightly and after a long time, she said, "Let him refine his body. Cultivating external skills might be an option."


    Slovenly Zhang smiled faintly and said, "What level do you think he can achieve with his thin arms and legs? Without tempering his genuine qi, even if he refines his body, he won''t become powerful."


    Qin E''nuo fell silent, her eyes showing a thoughtful look. After a while, she said slowly, "Then there is only one way."


    After speaking, Qin E''nuo looked at the center of the lake, her eyes filled with cold light, and said, "Forcefully break open his meridians."


    Slovenly Zhang''s expression froze when he heard this and he said, "Do you want to kill him? The meridians of an ordinary person are fragile. If forcibly broken, it will undoubtedly result in death."


    Qin E''nuo sneered and said, "It may not work for ordinary people, but he might be able to endure it. Don''t forget, he has money in the Li Residence. For every inch of meridian broken, he can use hundreds of potent medicines to repair it until all his meridians are broken."


    "That''s truly a terrible method."


    A strange look flashed in Slovenly Zhang''s eyes as he said, "Are you sure it will be his meridians that break first, and not him being tortured to death by you? Even with mountains of potent medicine, it cannot guarantee that he can withstand the pain of shattered meridians. Moreover, it will have to be broken hundreds or even thousands of times."


    "We won''t know until we try," Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    While the two were talking, the center of the lake remained calm.


    "Hey, where is that kid?"


    Slovenly Zhang suddenly snapped back to his senses and looked towards the center of the lake, anxiously saying, "He didn''t really drown, did he?"


    Qin E''nuo frowned and also looked towards the center of the lake.


    Slovenly Zhang immediately stood up and said.


    "No need for that trouble."


    Qin E''nuo waved her hand, grasped her sword, and her genuine qi surged as she slashed towards the lake surface.


    In an instant, the sword opened the gate of heaven, and the entire lake surface split apart like a hanging waterfall, dividing into two.


    At the same time, a figure emerged from under the water on the left side of the split lake surface. When he turned his head and saw the lake surface being split by a sword, he was startled.


    Li Ziye shivered and exclaimed.


    "This stinky kid scared the hell out of me."


    On the lake surface, Slovenly Zhang breathed a sigh of relief. If something had happened to that kid, he would have lost a thousand jars of Intoxicated Blossom Brew. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the lake, as the water receded, waves surged.


    Li Ziye swam to the shore and looked at Qin E''nuo, who was holding a sword, with admiration in his eyes. He almost went up to kiss her.


    "Do you want to learn?" Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    "Yes." Li Ziye nodded vigorously like a drumstick.


    "It will be a little bit painful." Qin E''nuo said casually.


    "That''s fine, I can handle a little pain." Li Ziye nodded vigorously.


    On the side, Slovenly Zhang''s mouth curved slightly. That little bit of pain was truly something.


    "Prepare a large amount of potent medicine. I will write down the names of the medicines, and you should prepare as many as possible," Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "How many is as many as possible? Can you give me a rough estimate?" Li Ziye asked.


    Qin E''nuo thought for a moment, then turned and pointed to the room behind her, saying, "Just fill that room."


    This time, even Li Ziye, who had seen and experienced a lot, couldn''t help but curse. Filling a room with potent medicine, did Old Qin think potent medicine was as cheap as cabbage?


    "You can choose not to prepare, but then three years later, you can wait to be beaten to death by Huo Lin''er," Qin E''nuo said calmly before turning and leaving.


    Li Ziye was stunned for a moment, then after a while, he came back to his senses and looked at Slovenly Zhang beside him, asking, "Old Zhang, do you know what Old Qin is planning?"


    "I don''t know," Slovenly Zhang shook his head decisively. He only cared about watching the show, and it had nothing to do with him.


    Li Ziye looked suspicious, wondering what was going on. Why did he have a bad premonition?


    ***


    Half a day later.


    Li Residence study.


    Li Baiwan saw the list of potent medicines on the table, and his face, full of fat, trembled uncontrollably.


    "H-How much?" Li Baiwan stuttered.


    "Younger Brother said, fill a room," Li Youwei said softly.


    Li Baiwan couldn''t help but curse.


    "Adoptive Father."


    Li Youwei brought the list of potent medicines over and smiled, "I will take care of this. I will find a way to get the silver."


    "Young Wei," Li Baiwan''s face twitched, "Do you know how much silver this will require?"


    "I know."Li Youwei gave a faint smile, saying, "It''s just silver, not as important as my younger brother''s dream."


    "You..."


    Li Baiwan shook his head helplessly, saying, "Alright, I''ll leave this matter to you."


    Li Youwei smiled and didn''t say anything more, turning around and leaving the study.


    ***


    Two hours later, in Yuzhou City, all the potent medicines in hundreds of pharmacies were sold out.


    A day later, in the three major cities adjacent to Yuzhou City, hundreds of pharmacies also had mysterious buyers who bought up all the potent medicines.


    Ten days later, there were no more potent medicines to sell in half of the cities of the Great Shang Royal Dynasty.


    The terrifying wealth of the Li Family in Yuzhou was revealed, shocking the world.


    At this time, Li Ziye of the Li Residence was drinking tea at the Yuelai Inn, not with Qin E''nuo, but with the Third Prince of the Great Shang.


    "Third Royal Highness, please."


    In the prince''s room, Li Ziye raised his cup and smiled.

 Chapter 7 – A little pain wont kill you

    Yuelai Inn, second-floor guest room, Li Ziye came to visit the Third Prince Mu Yao, his concerned expression was moving.


    "I heard that the Third Royal Highness was injured in an assassination attempt. I have always wanted to come and visit, but I was afraid of disturbing the Highness''s recovery, so I waited until today to come. I hope the Highness won''t mind." Li Ziye raised his teacup and said softly.


    "Brother Li is too polite."


    Mu Yao coldly snorted in his heart, but his face did not show it. He smiled and said, "I am very happy that Brother Li came."


    Although he didn''t know who attacked him that night, he could guess that it was related to the Li Family.


    However, he had no evidence now, and it was not the time to turn against the Li Family.


    "What are the Third Royal Highness''s plans? After you recover from your injuries, are you going back to the capital city?" Li Ziye asked tentatively.


    "No rush."


    Mu Yao smiled and said, "Since you are here, I also want to see the customs of Yuzhou City. At that time, I will inevitably trouble Brother Li."


    Li Ziye narrowed his eyes slightly at these words. This idiot, he still hasn''t left.


    "Don''t be polite. How can I say it''s a trouble? If the Third Royal Highness is willing to stay, I couldn''t ask for more." Li Ziye said sincerely.


    "Thank you."


    Mu Yao nodded, hesitated for a moment, and asked, "By the way, there is one thing I have been curious about. When I was in the capital city, I heard that the Li Family in Yuzhou is involved in the perfume, crystal, and soap business. Is it true?"


    "Of course not."


    Li Ziye laughed and said, "How could the Highness believe these rumors? The Li Family''s perfume business has been around for ten years. Ten years ago, I was still an ignorant child. How could I invent these things? These are just gimmicks used by storytellers to deceive ignorant people."


    Mu Yao chuckled and said, "It seems that I was also deceived by these storytellers."


    Speaking of this, Mu Yao picked up the teapot and poured a cup of tea for the person in front of him, casually saying, "Regarding this perfume and crystal business, has the Li Family ever thought of finding business partners?"


    Li Ziye''s eyes suddenly narrowed after hearing the words of the Third Prince. This was the true purpose of the Third Prince coming to Yuzhou City.


    The court really wanted to interfere in the business of his Li Residence.


    "Business partners?"


    Li Ziye picked up the tea poured by the Third Prince, took a sip, and pondered. He said, "I rarely interfere in the Li Family''s business, but according to my elder sister, the Li Residence''s business has indeed encountered a bottleneck. If they want to further expand, they need to find suitable business partners."


    Mu Yao''s mouth curved slightly. In the past two years, the court had intentionally or unintentionally suppressed the Li Family''s business. Although the effect was not significant, it still restrained the Li Family''s crazy expansion of business.


    However, this was just a prelude. The court''s purpose was to interfere in the Li Family''s business.


    And if the Li Residence wanted to continue to expand its commercial influence, it had to rely on the power of the court.


    "There are a few good choices in the capital city. They have strong financial resources and good connections. If Brother Li is willing, I can introduce them to you." Mu Yao took the opportunity to say.


    "Oh?"


    Li Ziye became alert and asked, "Which ones?"


    "The Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House." Mu Yao answered.


    Li Ziye''s expression slightly condensed after hearing this. It turned out that these three commercial giants in the capital city were all related to the court.


    Being able to get this information, this trip was not in vain.


    He was well aware that the Third Prince revealing this information was not without conditions. These three families were the choices given to the Li Residence by the royal family, and the Li Residence had no choice but to choose.


    At least, before the Li Residence and the royal family officially fell out, the Li Residence had to give face to the royal family.


    "Third Royal Highness, I need to go back and discuss this matter with my father and elder sister. I hope the Highness can wait for one or two days. I will definitely give the Highness a satisfactory answer." Li Ziye stood up and respectfully said.


    "Alright, I will wait here for Brother Li''s good news."


    Mu Yao stood up to see him off, with a smile on his face.


    Li Ziye nodded and quickly left.


    ***


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, in the study.


    Li Baiwan and Li Youwei were checking the account books inside. Li Ziye pushed open the door and walked in directly.


    "Outrageous."


    Li Baiwan was about to get angry, but when he saw who it was, his face immediately filled with a smile. He said, "Son, why are you here? You rarely come to the study."


    "Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye ignored the nouveau riche in front of him and greeted Li Youwei. He asked, "Do we have any business dealings with the Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House in the capital city?"


    "We have some with the Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House, but not much with the Zhangsun Family. Why?" Li Youwei asked in confusion.


    "They are backed by the court." Li Ziye said seriously.


    "The court?"


    Li Baiwan and Li Youwei exchanged glances and their expressions turned serious.


    "Is the news reliable?" Li Baiwan asked in a deep voice.


    "The Third Prince personally told me, so it should be true." Li Ziye replied.


    "If that''s the case, it''s troublesome."Li Youwei said in a serious tone, "For these years, we have been avoiding the interference of the royal court in our Li Family''s business, just to avoid being controlled by them. Unexpectedly, the royal court''s reach has extended so far."


    "Sister Youwei, there''s no need to worry too much."


    Li Ziye said solemnly, "There are pros and cons to everything. The royal court is so eager to interfere in our Li Family''s business, so this time we will expose some information. We always have to return the favor."


    "What do you mean, little brother?" Li Youwei asked, puzzled.


    "The Third Prince gave us three choices, didn''t he?"


    Li Ziye''s mouth curved slightly, "Our Li Family''s business is so big that these three families must have been envious for a long time. Unfortunately, we can only choose one to cooperate with."


    "What do you mean, let them fight each other like dogs?" Li Youwei said.


    "You''re the smartest, Sister Youwei. People are driven by self-interest, even if these three families are all backed by the royal court, they can''t completely unite."


    Li Ziye agreed and smiled, "Alright, you decide on these troublesome matters. I don''t care anymore. I''m going to become a Sword Immortal. How are my potent medicines prepared?"


    "They are almost ready. I have already sent people to search for the remaining potent medicines in various cities. You can rest assured, little brother," Li Youwei said softly.


    "Haha, Sister Youwei is always the best to me. Hug."


    Li Ziye approached and hugged his elder sister in front of him, feeling much happier.


    "Alright, go find your wife quickly."


    Li Youwei lightly tapped his forehead and smiled.


    "My wife?"


    Li Ziye let go and immediately reacted, "You mean Old Qin? Right, I''ll go ask her when she will start cultivating. I''m about to become a Sword Immortal, hahaha!"


    With a wild and arrogant smile, Li Ziye left the study and went to find Qin E''nuo.


    Seeing her younger brother leave, Li Youwei''s kind smile disappeared from her face, and her tone became cold, "Adoptive father, I think little brother''s proposal is good. Let the bootlickers of those three royal families fight each other first. While we watch the tigers fight from the mountain, we can seize the opportunity to erode their power and buy ourselves some time."


    "That''s indeed a good idea."


    Li Baiwan nodded and said, "If necessary, let Qingzhi secretly take action and increase the suspicion among the three families."


    "Qingzhi?"


    Li Youwei pondered for a moment and nodded, "There have been many incidents in the residence recently. It is indeed necessary for Second Brother to come back for a visit. However, if possible, we should avoid exposing his identity. After all, his true identity cannot be revealed."


    Everyone in the world knows that there are three siblings in the Li Family, but Li Qingzhi, the second-ranked one, is mostly known by name. Other than that, not much is known. Even the people in the Li Residence rarely see this Second Young Master and do not know his true identity.


    However, she, her younger brother, and their adoptive father know.


    The number one tower in the world, Misty Rain Tower, the fastest-rising assassin organization under the Great Shang Royal Dynasty''s influence in the past ten years.


    And Qingzhi is the Tower Master of Misty Rain Tower.


    The wealth of the Li Residence is unparalleled in the world. Therefore, in the past ten years, Misty Rain Tower has recruited countless experts, with the goal of jointly resisting the royal court, one in the light and one in the dark, together with the Li Residence.


    And the initial proposal to establish Misty Rain Tower was made by her younger brother.


    Thinking of this, Li Youwei sighed lightly in her heart.


    It is also because of this reason that the relationship between Qingzhi and her younger brother has always been bad.


    Qingzhi is a true martial arts genius. At a young age, his cultivation level is already close to that of the Grandmaster Level experts. However, because of her younger brother''s proposal, he has been in the darkness for the past ten years, and his identity has never seen the light.


    If Qingzhi doesn''t hold any grudges, that would be impossible.


    She understands, and her younger brother understands too.


    Therefore, her younger brother, who never wants to suffer any losses, has always been patient and never confronts Qingzhi.


    ***


    In the backyard, by the lake.


    Li Ziye searched around but couldn''t find his Fairy Master. He couldn''t help but ask, "Old Zhang, where is Old Qin?"


    By the lake, a cold smile appeared on the corner of Slovenly Zhang''s mouth as he said, "She''s right behind you." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''re... kidding."


    Li Ziye instinctively turned around and, upon seeing the woman behind him, a bootlicker-like smile appeared on his face as he said, "Fairy Master, when did you arrive?"


    "Just now."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly, "What do you need from me?"


    "The potent medicines are all prepared. When can I start cultivating?"


    Li Ziye eagerly asked.


    "Now."


    Qin E''nuo said, then walked towards the nearby pharmacy.


    "So soon."


    Li Ziye looked surprised and quickly followed.


    When they were near the lake, Li Ziye also winked at Old Zhang and mouthed, "I''m about to become a Sword Immortal."


    Old Zhang didn''t respond, he closed his eyes with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. Kid, just wait to die.


    It is said that women hold grudges, and it''s absolutely true.


    He really doubted whether Qin E''nuo''s method was purely for revenge, aiming to kill this young man.


    Shattering every inch of his meridians and then repairing them, repeating this process a hundred times, hm.The thought alone was enough to lift one''s spirits.


    In the pharmacy, a massive bathtub had already been prepared. The servants of the mansion continuously poured steaming hot water into it, followed by baskets of potent medicine.


    Inside the room, Qin E''nuo looked at the young man before her and spoke indifferently.


    "This... this isn''t appropriate."


    Li Ziye''s face showed a hint of difficulty. It was improper for men and women to touch each other. Even though she was his teacher and a mother figure, he was, after all, grown up.


    "Enough with your nonsense!"


    Qin E''nuo sneered, not saying anything more. She grabbed his arm, tore open his clothes, and with a swift palm strike, forcefully shattered the meridians in his right arm.


    Immediately, the room was filled with a pig-slaughtering scream. It was so miserable that it sent chills down one''s spine.


    The next moment, Qin E''nuo picked up Li Ziye and threw him directly into the medicinal bath.


    "Qin E''nuo, asshole!"


    Inside the scalding medicinal bath, Li Ziye was in so much pain that he was on the verge of going mad, cursing without restraint.


    "If you can still curse, it means you''re full of energy. As expected, a little pain won''t kill you!"


    Qin E''nuo sneered again, stepped forward, grabbed Li Ziye''s other arm, and with a strong grip, her genuine Qi surged, shattering the meridians in his left arm.


    Inside the room, the pig-slaughtering scream rang out again, startling the servants passing by in the mansion.


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang picked up the Intoxicated Blossom Brew, took a swig, and began to hum a tune cheerfully.


    "Apricot tree, oh, blooming white flowers, today an immortal visits my home, the immortal touches my head, oh, to grant me eternal life..."

 Chapter 8 – Brothers live in harmony, Li Qingzhi

    As the sun set, Qin E''nuo walked out of the pharmacy.


    Half an hour later, Li Ziye was carried out of the pharmacy.


    How to describe it?


    The words might be the most appropriate.


    The servants of the Li Family were so scared that they didn''t dare to breathe. For so many years, it was the first time they had seen Young Master in such a miserable state.


    Li Baiwan and Li Youwei rushed to Li Ziye''s room as soon as they heard the news.


    There was also the doctor from the residence.


    "Young Master just fainted from the pain, there''s no major problem."


    After examining Li Ziye''s meridians, the doctor from the residence spoke.


    Upon hearing this, Li Baiwan breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Younger Brother."


    Li Youwei sat by the bed, looking at the unconscious Li Ziye with a distressed expression. She also felt a hint of anger towards Qin E''nuo.


    This Qin E''nuo is really hateful. Couldn''t she use a gentler method to clear Young Master''s meridians?


    Seeing that Li Ziye was fine, Li Baiwan and the doctor left the room, leaving only Li Youwei by the bedside, staying there until late at night. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sister Youwei."


    In the quiet night, Li Ziye woke up, struggling to open his eyes and saw the woman by the bed. He called out softly.


    "Younger Brother, you''re awake."


    Li Youwei''s face showed a joyful expression as she cared, "Does it still hurt?"


    "No, it doesn''t hurt anymore."


    Li Ziye pretended to be relaxed and replied, "Sister Youwei, it''s late, you should go rest."


    "No rush, I made your favorite lotus seed soup for you."


    Li Youwei got up and brought a bowl of lotus seed soup from the table, then fed it to him little by little.


    Li Ziye silently ate the lotus seed soup, feeling a slight sourness in his heart.


    In this Li Residence, if there was anyone who treated him the best, it must be his Elder Sister.


    Even his own father, Old Li, often fell short in comparison.


    Moreover, for these years, Li Youwei had been managing most of the Li Family''s business, which was quite exhausting.


    On the other hand, he, as the legitimate son of the Li Residence, was either idling around or indulging in unrealistic dreams of becoming a Sword Immortal.


    To be honest, he felt guilty towards his Sworn Sister.


    "Younger Brother."


    Li Ziye spoke, wanting to say something.


    "Rest early, don''t overthink."


    Li Youwei seemed to understand what he was thinking and said softly, "As long as you''re happy, Elder Sister will be happy."


    After saying that, Li Youwei didn''t stay any longer and left the room.


    In the room, Li Ziye lay quietly on the bed, feeling a determination he had never felt before.


    He knew that the Li Residence was now in a difficult situation, and the court had begun to target the Li Residence. With the current strength of the Li Residence, they were still unable to truly resist the court.


    However, if the Li Residence could produce a Sword Immortal, the situation would be completely different.


    Therefore, no matter how hard it was, he had to persevere.


    The people he wanted to protect were all in this Li Residence. No matter what, he couldn''t let the Li Residence decline.


    A sleepless night passed, and the next day, Li Ziye got up from the bed as soon as the sky brightened.


    During breakfast, Li Ziye couldn''t even pick up the dishes with his hands, trembling. It was obvious that his shattered meridians had not fully recovered.


    "Younger Brother, don''t worry."


    Li Youwei brought the food in front of him and comforted, "Hmm."


    Li Ziye nodded, ate a few bites of food quickly, and then left.


    "What''s wrong with Ziye?" Li Baiwan asked in confusion.


    "Younger Brother''s thoughts are heavier than we imagined." Li Youwei sighed softly.


    Not far from the lake, in front of Qin E''nuo''s room, Li Ziye walked over, knocked on the door, and shouted, "Fairy Master."


    With a creak, the door opened, and Qin E''nuo looked at the person in front of her and said calmly, "What''s the matter?"


    "I''m fine now, we can continue." Li Ziye grinned.


    Qin E''nuo glanced at him and said calmly, "Your meridians haven''t fully recovered yet. Are you sure your body can handle it?"


    "Sure." Li Ziye nodded confidently.


    "Then let''s go!"


    Qin E''nuo said calmly, then walked out of the room and headed towards the pharmacy.


    Li Ziye followed without any hesitation.


    Half an hour later.


    Inside the pharmacy, the sound of agonizing screams resounded once again.


    The pain of shattered meridians was unbearable for anyone.


    But Li Ziye, with a heart as firm as a rock, persisted with all his might.


    By the lakeside, Slovenly Zhang silently drank from a jar of wine. This time, he didn''t take pleasure in others'' misfortune.


    Li Ziye, from the Li Family, really exceeded his expectations.


    He thought that after experiencing such deep pain yesterday, the kid would retreat.


    But he didn''t expect Li Ziye to be so stubborn.


    Half a day later, the door opened.


    Qin E''nuo walked out, with a faint sweat on her forehead.


    "Fairy Master."


    Li Ziye''s voice came from inside the pharmacy. Today, he didn''t faint.


    "What''s the matter?"


    Qin E''nuo stopped and asked calmly.


    "Don''t you want to teach me the sword?" Li Ziye said wearily.


    "Can you still stand?" Qin E''nuo asked.


    "I can!" Li Ziye replied.


    Qin E''nuo nodded, without saying much, and continued walking forward.


    Inside the pharmacy, after a full half hour, Li Ziye finally managed to walk out, his clothes neat after the medicinal bath, his long hair tied behind him, a distinguished and extraordinary Young Master.By the lake, Qin E''nuo was already waiting. When she saw Li Ziye approaching, she asked, "What is a sword?"


    "The ruler of a hundred soldiers," Li Ziye replied.


    Qin E''nuo frowned and said, "No, try again."


    "A sword is the king among weapons," Li Ziye answered again.


    "No, try again!"


    Qin E''nuo''s tone became noticeably stern.


    Li Ziye fell silent for a while before slowly saying, "A sword is a killing machine!"


    "Correct!"


    Qin E''nuo nodded, and in an instant, her aura changed. Sword energy shook the quiet lake, causing ripples to appear on its surface.


    "A sword is a killing machine, so no matter how exquisite the moves are, they all have only one purpose in the end."


    As she spoke, Qin E''nuo clenched her right hand, and suddenly, an ancient sword appeared in a nearby room.


    Qin E''nuo held the sword and swung it. In an instant, sword energy filled the air as she forcefully slashed through the lake.


    By the lake, Li Ziye watched this astonishing sword strike. Even though he had seen it before, he was still greatly shocked.


    "The essence of a sword is speed, accuracy, and focus. And the essence of sword techniques lies in a single swing, slash, or stab."


    Qin E''nuo calmly explained, "From today onwards, you only need to practice three moves: swing, slash, and stab. Repeat them a thousand times every day without missing a single one, until you can draw your sword without any unnecessary movements or errors, until it becomes instinctive."


    "Yes!"


    Li Ziye clasped his fists, respectfully saluting and agreeing.


    Seeing the young man perform such a formal salute for the first time, Qin E''nuo''s expression softened slightly. She said, "If you can reach the level I mentioned, even if you can''t open your meridians in the end, no one in the Great Shang Dynasty will be able to ignore your sword, except for a few martial arts masters."


    Not far away, Slovenly Zhang quietly drank his wine without saying a word.


    Qin E''nuo''s words were indeed correct, but in the world, there were only a few who could train their swords to such a level.


    Although this pancake was not small, it at least gave this kid some hope.


    By the lake, Li Ziye''s confidence was greatly strengthened after hearing Qin E''nuo''s words.


    "This sword is called Frost. You can borrow it for now."


    Qin E''nuo handed the ancient sword to the young man in front of her and said seriously, "However, every sword cultivator will have their own sword, so you should find a sword that truly belongs to you as soon as possible."


    Li Ziye accepted the Frost ancient sword and nodded gently, saying, "Thank you, Fairy."


    Qin E''nuo nodded in response and didn''t say anything more. She turned and walked away.


    Li Ziye stood by the lake and began to practice move by move.


    "You actually lent him your own sword. It seems that he is different in your eyes. I didn''t expect you to approve of him so quickly." Not far away, Slovenly Zhang took a sip of his wine and said.


    "From the moment he walked out of the pharmacy, he had the qualification to learn swordsmanship from me," Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "Do you really think he can embark on the path of martial arts?" Slovenly Zhang asked seriously.


    "I don''t know," Qin E''nuo said calmly, "But judging from his performance today, unless he really dies, he won''t give up."


    "It''s a waste for a playboy like him to learn martial arts. He''s just asking for trouble," Slovenly Zhang sneered lightly and didn''t say anything more.


    Qin E''nuo also didn''t say anything. She looked at the young man in front of her, knowing that everyone had their own persistence. Perhaps he also had something he wanted to protect, which was why he was working so hard.


    As the sun set, Li Ziye was still practicing tirelessly by the lake. His clothes and hair were soaked, sticking to his body.


    The meridians in his arms still hadn''t fully recovered, and every swing of the sword caused a deep pain that penetrated his bones.


    Faintly, blood seeped out, staining his sleeves red.


    "Younger brother."


    In the distance, Li Youwei watched this scene, feeling sorry in her heart, but she understood her younger brother''s personality and didn''t go forward to stop him.


    It wasn''t until sunset and after a thousand repetitions that Li Ziye finally stumbled back to his room, collapsing onto the bed. Even his consciousness had become blurry.


    As the sun set and night fell, Slovenly Zhang, who was about to return to his room by the lake, suddenly froze and looked towards the end of the night.


    A master!


    In the darkness, a young man dressed in a silver-gray robe walked over. His expression was cold and serious, and his icy aura sent shivers down one''s spine.


    "Second Young Master!"


    The servants in the residence were stunned when they saw the newcomer, but quickly saluted.


    Li Qingzhi ignored them and walked straight towards the study.


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang narrowed his eyes.


    So this is the legendary Second Young Master of the Li Residence. He has such cultivation at such a young age.


    In the study.


    Li Qingzhi entered and respectfully saluted, "Adoptive father, Elder Sister."


    "Qingzhi."


    Li Baiwan and Li Youwei''s expressions softened when they saw him.


    "I wonder why adoptive father called me back. Elder Sister will tell you," Li Qingzhi said calmly.


    "Let''s talk about it," Li Baiwan looked at Li Youwei beside him and said, "Youwei."


    "Yes!"


    Li Youwei nodded and looked at the young man in front of her, saying, "Qingzhi, you already know about the Third Prince coming to Yuzhou City. Do you know why he came, apart from wanting to apprentice himself to Qin E''nuo?"


    "I don''t know," Li Qingzhi shook his head.


    "Spying on the strength and weakness of our Li Residence, and under the name of the Royal Family, trying to interfere with the business of our Li Family."


    Li Youwei said seriously, "The Zhangsun Family in the Capital City, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House, these are the choices the Third Prince has given us, and we have no choice but to choose."


    Li Qingzhi was silent, and after a moment, he asked, "What do you want me to do, Elder Sister?"


    "In a few days, I will go to the Capital City to discuss business cooperation with these three families. I want you to secretly send people to sabotage their relationships at that time. Can you do it?" Li Youwei said calmly.


    Li Qingzhi thought for a moment and nodded, "I can."


    "Qingzhi, this matter can only be done by sending people, you must not take action personally." Li Baiwan reminded from the side.


    "Yes, Adoptive Father." Li Qingzhi respectfully replied.


    "Go."


    Li Baiwan waved his hand.


    "Qingzhi takes his leave."


    Li Qingzhi bowed, then turned and left.


    Li Baiwan got up and walked to the front of the study, looking at the latter''s back, he sighed lightly, "Qingzhi''s temperament is getting colder and colder. If something happens to me one day, only you, Youwei, can restrain him."


    "Adoptive Father."


    Li Youwei opened her mouth and said, "Although Qingzhi holds grudges in his heart, he is ultimately loyal to the Li Residence. Moreover, Qingzhi is not completely devoid of feelings for his younger brother."


    "Perhaps."


    Li Baiwan gave a bitter smile. He dared not say for others, but for Li Ziye, Qingzhi would definitely not show any good face.


    Early the next morning, Li Ziye was practicing sword by the lake.


    At this time, on the other side of the lake, Li Qingzhi, dressed in a silver-gray robe, walked over.


    Seeing the approaching figure, Li Ziye was about to speak, but he felt a blur in front of his eyes and instinctively blocked with his sword.


    In the blink of an eye, Li Qingzhi had already rushed over from a distance of ten feet, his right hand pointing forward, aiming at the hand that held the sword.


    With a thud, Li Ziye only felt a numbness in his right hand, and the ancient sword in his hand fell out of his grip.


    Li Qingzhi said coldly, then turned and left.

 Chapter 9 – Little exercise is not dangerous

    Not far from the lake shore, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang saw this scene and exchanged a glance, neither of them said anything.


    Li Ziye, the Second Young Master of the Li Family, was truly astonishing.


    At such a young age and with such cultivation, it was truly terrifying.


    By the lake, Li Ziye silently picked up the sword on the ground. His stubborn nature never allowed him to suffer losses, and at this moment, he didn''t retort.


    "Qingzhi."


    In the distance, Li Youwei saw Li Qingzhi approaching and whispered, "Younger brother has been working hard, give him some time."


    "Elder sister, when can you and adoptive father protect him?" Li Qingzhi''s expression was indifferent as he said, "If he continues to be such a waste, the Li Residence will be defeated by him sooner or later."


    "The Li Residence owes its current state to him, and now he is working hard to protect this family. Qingzhi, I hope you can give him more patience and time." Li Youwei sighed softly.


    "He has indeed brought glory to the Li Residence, but he doesn''t have the ability to defend it, which is his biggest mistake." Li Qingzhi''s eyes glanced at the young man on the lake shore, his expression cold.


    By the lake, Li Ziye picked up the sword and returned it to Qin E''nuo.


    "Fairy, can I take half a day off? I will make up for the missed time when I come back." Li Ziye said.


    "Go ahead."


    Qin E''nuo didn''t ask further and took the Frost Ancient Sword, nodding in agreement.


    "Thank you, Fairy."


    Li Ziye thanked her and walked towards the distance.


    "Second Brother."


    Li Ziye quickly approached the two, even though he had just been reprimanded, he still greeted them with a smile, "You''re back."


    Li Qingzhi looked at the young man in front of him and said calmly, "Have you finished practicing the sword?"


    "Not yet. I promised the Third Prince earlier that I would give him an answer in these two days." Li Ziye replied.


    "Your elder sister is going to the capital city, do you know about this?" Li Qingzhi asked.


    "I know." Li Ziye nodded.


    "The capital city is treacherous. This should have been your responsibility as the legitimate son, but because of your inaction, it can only be left to your elder sister. Do you understand?" Li Qingzhi said coldly.


    "I understand, Second Brother." Li Ziye humbly accepted the criticism and replied.


    "Your elder sister is going to the capital city, and I will secretly follow. Yuzhou City will be left to you." Li Qingzhi said calmly.


    "Rest assured, Second Brother."


    Li Ziye nodded vigorously, looking obedient and well-behaved. No one could have imagined that he was the unruly Young Master of the Li Family.


    "Go, be careful dealing with the cunning Third Prince." Li Qingzhi''s expression softened slightly as he gave his advice.


    "Thank you for your concern, Second Brother. I will be careful."


    Rarely being cared for by his older brother, Li Ziye happily responded and left.


    "You, you are too harsh on your younger brother."


    Seeing Li Ziye leave, Li Youwei said helplessly, "Actually, he respects you as his older brother. Every time you come back, he is happy for a long time."


    "He is the only legitimate son of the Li Residence, so he should bear more responsibility than others. That is his fate." Li Qingzhi said calmly, "By the way, I will keep an eye out for a suitable sword for him. I heard that there are a few good ancient swords in the Eastern Sea and Southern Frontier. If I have the time, I will personally go and find them."


    "You, always tough talk but soft-hearted." Li Youwei said softly.


    ***


    Yuelai Inn, second-floor guest room.


    Mu Yao finished fixing his hair and adjusting his clothes, then walked downstairs.


    Li Ziye was already waiting in front of the inn.


    "Your Highness, please!" Li Ziye politely said.


    "Brother Li, please!" Mu Yao also said politely.


    The two smiled at each other and walked side by side.


    The customs of Yuzhou City were different from the capital city. The people here were simple and straightforward, but also relatively fierce.


    The streets were bustling with people, and children were playing and joking from time to time, passing through the crowd.


    "What do you think of my suggestion, Brother Li?" Mu Yao asked casually while looking at the customs of Yuzhou City.


    "The Li Residence naturally accepts the Third Prince''s kind offer. My elder sister will go to the capital city in a few days to discuss cooperation with the three families." Li Ziye replied.


    "Oh?"


    Mu Yao looked surprised and said, "Is it your sworn sister who is going? Aren''t you going together, Brother Li?"


    "I don''t interfere with the Li Residence''s business. It is my elder sister and father who handle it. My father is old and can''t travel far, so my elder sister will go on his behalf." Li Ziye smiled and replied.


    "That''s a pity."


    Mu Yao looked regretful and said, "I thought I could have a friendly gathering with Brother Li in the capital city."


    "If there is a chance, I will definitely visit the capital city and pay a visit to the Third Prince." Li Ziye said.


    Mu Yao nodded, his lips curved slightly, and he didn''t say anything more.


    It was a pity that the legitimate son of the Li Family couldn''t accompany them this time, but it was said that the relationship between the Li siblings was very good. As long as Li Youwei had trouble, this young man would not hesitate to go to the capital city.The two of them strolled for a long time, and Mu Yao looked at the young man beside him and asked, "By the way, when will Sister Ling set off?"


    "It will be in a few days." Li Ziye replied.


    "Alright, I have been away from the capital for some time, it''s time to go back."


    Mu Yao said, "I''ll accompany Sister Ling back to the capital, so we can take care of each other on the way."


    "That''s great, then I''ll trouble Third Royal Highness." Li Ziye smiled.


    "You''re welcome." Mu Yao replied.


    After discussing the important matters, the two of them engaged in meaningless conversation, asking and answering questions, trying to extract useful information from each other.


    Both of them were intelligent people, so even though their words were extremely insincere, they still appeared to be like old friends meeting, enjoying their conversation.


    After noon, Li Ziye and the Third Prince parted ways and returned to their respective homes.


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, Li Ziye walked over and sat down beside Old Zhang, wiping the sweat off his face, preparing to rest for a while.


    "Why, tired after going out for a trip?" Slovenly Zhang asked.


    "It''s indeed tiring to talk to someone as scheming as the Third Prince." Li Ziye took a deep breath and said.


    "You still have the nerve to say that others are scheming, I think you''re the most scheming person in Yuzhou City." Slovenly Zhang smirked.


    "Old Zhang, you have misunderstood me." Li Ziye said seriously, "I have always treated people with sincerity."


    "Hmph." Slovenly Zhang sneered, "Even the dogs in Yuzhou City wouldn''t believe that."


    Li Ziye was about to retort, but suddenly, he felt a chill behind him, and an ancient sword flew towards him, firmly embedding itself in front of him.


    "Finished practicing the sword?" A cold voice came from behind, although pleasant to the ears, it made people shiver.


    "Almost." Li Ziye immediately stood up, drew out the sword in front of him, and continued practicing.


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine, his lips curved.


    Qin E''nuo stood by the side, watching the young man not far away, her eyes flickering as if she was contemplating something.


    "Sword Enthusiast, what do you think about finding him an opponent?" After a long time, Qin E''nuo asked.


    "Do you want to kill him?" Slovenly Zhang asked in surprise, "He has only been learning the sword for a few days. Even if you use Genuine Qi and Potent Medicine to nourish his meridians and temper his body every day, his meridians are still unblocked, so he can''t cultivate. Moreover, accidents can happen in a fight. Finding him an opponent now is like wishing for his death."


    Qin E''nuo fell silent for a moment and said, "A jade needs to be polished to become a gem. If he continues to practice like this, even after ten years, he won''t be able to catch up to Huo Lin''er. If he wants to progress faster, he can only do so through actual combat. I heard that there are many bandits in the mountains north of Yuzhou City. Let him go there in a few days."


    Slovenly Zhang''s mouth twitched when he heard this. This woman really wanted to play this kid to death.


    Those bandits were all ruthless characters who lived by the blade, very fierce. With the kid''s current strength, going there would be seeking death.


    Li Ziye had no idea about the tragic fate he was about to face next, and he was still practicing his sword happily.


    Meanwhile, the others in the residence were busy preparing for Li Youwei''s departure to the capital.


    In the following seven days, Li Ziye immersed himself in practicing the sword and taking medicinal baths, being tortured to the point of near death. There were several times when he could barely get up.


    However, during this inhuman torture, Li Ziye''s meridians and physical strength rapidly improved, surpassing ordinary people and approaching true warriors.


    And after seven days, Li Youwei was finally ready to set off.


    Li Baiwan personally went to see her off, accompanying her all the way to the outskirts of Yuzhou City.


    But Li Ziye, who had the deepest feelings for Li Youwei, never showed up.


    ***


    "Aren''t you going to see off your elder sister?" In the backyard of the Li Residence, by the lake, Slovenly Zhang looked at the young man who was practicing his sword not far away and casually asked.


    "No need, Second Brother is secretly protecting her. Sister Youwei will be safe." Li Ziye replied while practicing his sword.


    Slovenly Zhang smiled. This kid had a more peculiar temper than him.


    "Li Ziye."


    At this moment, Qin E''nuo walked over and said, "Come with me."


    "Where to?" Li Ziye stopped and asked, puzzled.


    "I have prepared some training for you." Qin E''nuo replied.


    "Is it dangerous?" Li Ziye instinctively asked.


    "Just a small training, not dangerous." Qin E''nuo casually replied.


    Of course, it was indeed not dangerous for her, but for this kid... who knew.


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye put away his sword and followed her happily.


    Slovenly Zhang sat by the lake, watching the two figures walk away, a look of schadenfreude on his face.


    He had never realized before that this Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, who seemed like an immortal, was such a cunning person.


    Indeed, not all families share the same door.


    ***


    In the north of Yuzhou City, in front of Qilian Mountain, a carriage rumbled forward.Qin E''nuo stepped down from the carriage, looking at the cliff in the distant mountains, and said, "On this cliff, there is a Blood Ginseng Medicine King. It will be very helpful for you to repair your meridians. If you can collect it, I am confident that I can help you unblock one of your meridians in a short time."


    "Really?"


    From behind, Li Ziye also got off the carriage, his eyes fixed on the cliff ahead, his face showing excitement. He was unable to cultivate because his eight meridians were blocked. If he could unblock one of them, although he would still not be as good as those geniuses, at least he could start trying to cultivate.


    "Mm."


    Qin E''nuo nodded, responding lightly.


    "Alright, I''ll go now."


    After Li Ziye finished speaking, he immediately headed towards the mountain range ahead.


    "Wait a moment."


    Qin E''nuo handed over the sword in her hand, saying, "Take this."


    "I''m just collecting herbs, I don''t need a sword." Li Ziye said in surprise.


    "Take it."


    Qin E''nuo didn''t explain, just said.


    Li Ziye took the sword with a puzzled look, didn''t think much, and turned to enter the mountain range.


    Outside the Qilian Mountains, Qin E''nuo watched his back, her lips slightly curved. Then, with a step, she leapt into the forest, graceful as a fairy, heading deep into the mountains.


    Half an hour later, deep in the Qilian Mountains, not far from the cliff, Qin E''nuo''s figure arrived in front of a camp. She stood on a tree branch, pinched a falling leaf, and then threw it towards the camp.


    Boom!


    Seeing the leaf flying over, a wooden pillar in the camp broke in response, and a corner of the camp collapsed with a loud noise.


    Inside the camp, a man with a fierce face suddenly stood up, walked out of the camp, looked outside, and shouted, "What are you all standing around for, go check it out!"


    "Yes!" S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Several bandits took the order and immediately went out to check.


    On the tree branch, Qin E''nuo stepped on it, not hiding her tracks, and left under the gaze of all the bandits.


    The man shouted angrily.


    In front of the nearby cliff, Li Ziye, who knew nothing about all this, finally climbed up with great difficulty.


    "Blood Ginseng King."


    Li Ziye looked around, according to the location pointed out by Qin E''nuo, searching for the trace of the Blood Ginseng King.


    Where is it?


    Just as Li Ziye was looking for the Blood Ginseng King, not far away, a shout of anger came.


    "There''s someone there!"


    In the midst of the conversation, more than a dozen bandits rushed over like mad.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye was immediately startled.


    He was set up by Old Qin!


    No wonder Old Qin specifically reminded him to bring the sword!


    He''s not a fool, if he still can''t react to what''s going on at this time, his head must have been kicked by a donkey!


    Seeing the bandits rushing over like mad, Li Ziye came to his senses, didn''t say a word, turned around and ran.


    "Old Qin, asshole!"

 Chapter 10 – Arrogant and forgetful, Li someone

    Qilian Mountain, more than ten bandits holding knives are searching in the mountains, looking fierce and murderous.


    Not far away, Li Ziye cautiously hides in the bushes behind a big rock, trembling like a bullied little beast.


    Li Ziye is really angry. How can a master treat his disciple like this?


    When a woman holds a grudge, she becomes unreasonable.


    Li Ziye peeks out from behind the rock, looking at the positions of the bandits, constantly calculating how to escape.


    It''s getting dark, and when the sun sets, he will leave under the cover of night.


    Ha, Qin E''nuo, you want to scheme against me, but you''re still young.


    Just as Li Ziye starts to feel proud, in the distance, a sword aura breaks through the air and directly hits the giant rock in front of Li Ziye with a loud bang.


    The loud noise startles the nearby four or five bandits.


    Li Ziye is stunned, then he realizes and angrily curses, "Qin E''nuo, fuck you, you immortal bitch!"


    After cursing, Li Ziye immediately stands up and runs away.


    "There, brothers, kill him!"


    The five bandits see Li Ziye running away and chase after him with all their might.


    In the distance, on a tree branch, a beautiful figure stands quietly, watching the young boy desperately fleeing in the mountains, with a slight smile on her lips.


    The sun is about to set, and the light in the mountains becomes dim.


    One of the bandits catches up to Li Ziye and swings his iron knife down.


    In a hurry, Li Ziye rolls his body to avoid the blade, looking quite embarrassed.


    The bandit laughs and kicks him.


    On the ground, Li Ziye quickly uses his sword to block, but he can''t withstand the force of the bandit''s foot and is kicked several meters away.


    In the distance, Qin E''nuo sees this scene from a treetop and furrows her brows.


    Has this kid forgotten everything she taught him?


    Swords are not used like this.


    It seems that letting him enter the mountains and fight against these bandits was the right decision. No matter how strong his body is or how many times he practices his sword, it''s useless without experiencing life and death battles.


    In the mountains, Li Ziye, who has no combat experience, is being tossed around by the bandits and can hardly fight back.


    And not far away, several more bandits hear the commotion and are coming over.


    "This guy, with his appearance and delicate skin, is obviously a young master from a wealthy family. Haha, instead of enjoying a comfortable life, he insists on seeking death. Let me fulfill your wish!"


    The bandit in front of Li Ziye sees his miserable appearance and becomes even more arrogant. He walks forward with his iron knife in hand.


    Ten steps away, Li Ziye looks at the bandit in front of him, his anger rising in his eyes. How can a young boy like him easily admit defeat?


    This bandit is not a martial artist, just an ordinary person like him. If he can''t defeat someone like this, what''s the point of learning martial arts?


    Ten steps, five steps, three steps, getting closer!


    Li Ziye holds his breath and forces himself to calm down in the face of life and death.


    At a distance of three steps, Li Ziye suddenly bursts out!


    Drawing his sword, swinging his sword, all in the blink of an eye.


    Under the remaining sunlight, the gleam of the sword is dazzling, like a startled swan, sealing the bandit''s throat with one strike!


    In the distance, Qin E''nuo sees this and her eyes light up.


    Not bad!


    In the mountains, the bandit covers his bleeding throat, opens his mouth to say something, but can''t speak anymore, and falls straight down.


    "Bad people always die from talking too much."


    Li Ziye sits exhausted on the ground, looking at the fallen bandit in a pool of blood, weakly saying.


    Is this what it feels like to kill someone? It''s really uncomfortable.


    At this moment, three bandits rush over from not far away, seeing this scene, their faces filled with rage.


    Seeing three more people coming, Li Ziye forces himself to stand up, without saying a word, he turns around and runs.


    He can''t fight against three of them right now.


    The three bandits immediately chase after him.


    The sun sets, night falls, and the forest gradually becomes dark.


    The bandits light torches and continue to search in the mountains. It seems that they won''t stop until they find Li Ziye.


    "They really don''t give up."


    Li Ziye looks at the flickering flames in the forest, a cold light flashing in his eyes.


    Facing several bandits at once is indeed a bit difficult for him, but in such a dark night, with the enemy in the light and him in the dark, it''s a good opportunity to take them down one by one.


    Thinking of this, Li Ziye lowers his body, quietly approaches the bandit closest to him under the cover of night and bushes.


    In the dark night, Li Ziye silently comes behind the bandit, covers his mouth with his hand, and then swiftly slashes his throat with his sword.


    The bandit trembles and opens his mouth, but soon loses his breath.


    After killing two people in a row, Li Ziye feels a bit nauseous, but he endures it and retreats back into the bushes.


    In this era of survival of the fittest, he must adapt. If he doesn''t kill, then today, he will be the one to die!


    In the bushes, Li Ziye wipes away the blood on his hands, adjusts his breathing carefully, and stares at the flickering flames ahead. His gaze gradually becomes cold and fierce, like a beast, firmly fixed on his prey.


    After experiencing life and death trials, Li Ziye''s state of mind finally begins to change. Nervousness and fear gradually fade away, and the more dangerous the situation, the calmer he becomes.


    In the distance, Qin E''nuo sees the transformation happening to Li Ziye and feels relieved. She shifts her gaze to the bandit camp in the distance.


    Now, she can focus on her own tasks.The matter of the Blood Ginseng Medicine King, she did not lie. A few days ago, when she entered the mountain, that Blood Ginseng Medicine King did indeed grow on the cliff.


    To be honest, she was also surprised when she saw the Medicine King for the first time.


    The rarity of the Medicine King was beyond imagination, surpassing any potent medicine.


    In order to temper Li Ziye, she did not pick it.


    Unexpectedly, when she came again today, the Blood Ginseng on the cliff was nowhere to be found.


    The only possibility was that the Blood Ginseng Medicine King had been discovered and picked by the bandits in this mountain, and hidden in their camp.


    She hoped that this kid would be lucky enough that the Blood Ginseng had not been eaten.


    Otherwise, it would not be as easy as she imagined to find another Medicine King.


    With this in mind, Qin E''nuo lightly stepped on the ground and swiftly flew towards the bandit camp in the distance.


    After about ten breaths, in the depths of the forest, in front of the camp, a graceful figure flew through the air like a startled swan, instantly arriving inside the camp.


    Most of the bandits in the camp were already asleep, only a few were still patrolling.


    Qin E''nuo avoided the patrolling bandits and began to search for the whereabouts of the Blood Ginseng.


    Inside the camp, there were plenty of gold, silver, jade, and precious medicinal stones, piled up in boxes. Obviously, these bandits had not been sparing in their looting.


    Qin E''nuo didn''t even glance at the gold and silver, not because she wasn''t interested, but because she didn''t care.


    No matter how much money these bandits had, could they compare to her useless disciple?


    Ignoring the gold and silver, Qin E''nuo''s gaze fell on several boxes containing medicinal herbs, and she began to search through them one by one.


    Inside the boxes, there were plenty of medicinal herbs, such as Ginseng, Deer Antler, and Fo-Ti Root, all complete and abundant.


    "Found it."


    Finally, after searching for a while, Qin E''nuo opened an exquisite wooden box. When she saw the blood-colored ginseng inside, she couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief.


    That kid was lucky. The Blood Ginseng was still there, not ruined by these bandits.


    "Who are you!"


    Just at this moment, a furious voice sounded from inside the camp. On a tiger-skin chair not far away, a fierce-looking man opened his eyes, suddenly stood up, and grabbed a wine jar beside him, throwing it directly.


    Ten zhang away, Qin E''nuo calmly put away the Blood Ginseng, dodging the wine jar.


    In the dim light, the fierce man couldn''t see Qin E''nuo''s appearance clearly. He stomped his foot forcefully and charged like a cannonball.


    "Nonsense!"


    Qin E''nuo frowned, waved her hand, and instantly, an extremely powerful sword qi burst out, with a loud bang, sending the fierce man flying dozens of zhang away.


    Dozens of zhang away, the fierce man fell to the ground, spitting out a mouthful of blood, his face showing a shocked expression.


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    "I''ll spare you today, but someone will come to take your life in the future."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly, then turned and walked away.


    This bandit leader was a martial artist who had obtained a Divine Hidden Technique. He was neither strong nor weak, just suitable to be an opponent for that kid.


    Her master had really put a lot of thought into this.


    In the forest, Qin E''nuo walked under the moonlight. She walked for a long time but did not see Li Ziye, nor did she see any bandits.


    Along the way, there was only blood, staining the forest red.


    A strange light flashed in Qin E''nuo''s eyes, and she walked towards the edge of the forest.


    At the end of the forest, a thin figure of a young man sat there, covered in blood, gasping for breath.


    "Where are the people?"


    Qin E''nuo walked up and asked.


    "They''re all dead."


    Li Ziye replied wearily.


    Qin E''nuo narrowed her eyes, as expected.


    She had underestimated him. This kid was more ruthless than she had imagined.


    In front of the forest, Li Ziye took a deep breath and looked at the woman beside him, saying, "Fairy Master, you did it on purpose!"


    "Yes."


    Qin E''nuo didn''t try to deny it at all.


    "..."


    Seeing the other party admit it so straightforwardly, Li Ziye didn''t know what else to say.


    "How does it feel to kill for the first time?" Qin E''nuo asked.


    "Not good."


    Li Ziye honestly replied, "It''s a bit nauseating."


    "You''ll get used to it."


    Qin E''nuo said lightly, then walked towards the carriage outside the forest.


    "Let''s go back."


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye nodded and followed.


    "Fairy Master."


    Under the moonlight, the carriage rumbled past, and Li Ziye''s voice came from inside the carriage.


    "What is it?" Qin E''nuo responded.


    "If I had died at the hands of those bandits, would you have helped?" Li Ziye tentatively asked.


    "I don''t know."


    Qin E''nuo calmly replied, "You can try."


    "..."


    Li Ziye was speechless. His life was more important, and he didn''t dare to gamble.


    Inside the carriage, the atmosphere became somewhat heavy. After a while, Qin E''nuo spoke again, saying, "From today onwards, in addition to practicing swordsmanship, you will also come to this mountain to eliminate bandits every day. I''ll remind you, the leader of those bandits is a martial artist who has obtained a Divine Hidden Technique."


    "A martial artist?"


    Li Ziye was shocked, then quickly backed down, saying, "Fairy Master, I think my strength is not enough. Let the government handle the bandit situation."


    "I have made up my mind about this matter, no need to say more."


    After saying that, Qin E''nuo casually threw a wooden box.


    Li Ziye opened the box with a puzzled expression, and when he saw the Blood Ginseng inside, his face showed ecstatic joy.


    Li Ziye was so excited that he almost forgot his own surname, reaching out to hug the other party.


    Qin E''nuo''s eyes turned cold, and instantly, even the air in the carriage seemed to freeze.Li Ziye''s body trembled slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. His face turned pale, and his arms stiffened.


    The next moment, a powerful surge of Genuine Qi erupted from the carriage. The carriage shattered with a loud crash, and Li Ziye was sent flying, landing in a heap on the ground.


    Under the moonlight, the carriage rumbled away into the distance.

 Chapter 11 – Open pulse

    Outside Yuzhou City, the sun rose and Li Ziye walked back on foot, drenched and in a sorry state.


    It took Li Ziye the whole night to return.


    Offending a woman, especially someone as formidable as Qin E''nuo, had dire consequences.


    In the Li Residence, Li Baiwan was anxiously pacing around as Li Ziye had not returned all night. However, he dared not do anything due to the terrifying woman by the lake in the backyard.


    "No need to ask, no need to search, he won''t die!" Qin E''nuo had only said these words when she returned last night before going to her own room to rest.


    Li Baiwan was anxious but could only worry in silence, not daring to say or ask anything.


    "Old Sir, Young Master has returned."


    A servant hurriedly came from the front yard to report.


    Upon hearing this, Li Baiwan quickly went forward to greet him.


    Li Ziye returned to the Li Residence looking disheveled and ragged, resembling a beggar, shocking everyone in the residence.


    What happened to the Young Master?


    Why does he look like he has been mistreated?


    "Son, are you alright?"


    Seeing his precious son return, Li Baiwan hurriedly went up and asked.


    "Do I look alright to you?"


    Li Ziye extended his arms and pointed at his appearance, speaking with annoyance, "I''m just not dead yet."


    After saying that, Li Ziye looked around and angrily asked, "Is Old Qin back?"


    "She''s in the backyard," Li Baiwan answered.


    "I''m going to find her!"


    Li Ziye said angrily and walked quickly towards the backyard.


    "Son, don''t be impulsive, you can''t beat her!"


    Li Baiwan was startled and quickly grabbed Li Ziye from behind, reminding him.


    Li Ziye froze upon hearing this and his face showed a mix of sadness and anger.


    He, the Third Young Master of the Li Family, the richest playboy in the world, a cheat code transmigrator, the beloved son of heaven, was actually afraid of a woman!


    Wasn''t it said that transmigrators were invincible?


    He invented soap, he even created crystal. Everything was going according to the script, so why were his meridians blocked, preventing him from cultivating?


    This was just playing with people!


    We are ", find us on google.


    "Son, if you have something to say, that woman is really powerful." Li Baiwan consoled him with fear.


    "Old Li, you''re really useless, a woman made you so afraid!" Li Ziye regained his composure and looked at the fat Li behind him with disdain. Then, he raised his head and walked towards the backyard.


    Li Baiwan was stunned for a moment, then quickly regained his senses and hurriedly followed.


    Is his son going to confront Fairy Qin head-on today?


    By the lake in the backyard, Qin E''nuo stood quietly, her gaze fixed on the surface of the lake, her expression as calm as the still water.


    Beside her, Slovenly Zhang lazily lay there, drinking wine, feeling quite at ease.


    At this moment, Li Ziye strode towards the backyard, his head held high, exuding an imposing aura, despite his disheveled appearance, revealing a fearless and dauntless temperament.


    "Oh, this kid still has some backbone!" Slovenly Zhang opened his eyes and admired Li Ziye''s imposing manner.


    Fight! Let''s fight!


    He, an old man, loved watching a good show the most.


    Getting closer!


    Seeing Li Ziye about to approach, Slovenly Zhang couldn''t contain his excitement.


    By the lake, Li Ziye walked forward with his head held high, his accumulated momentum was overwhelming.


    How could he be afraid of a woman!


    A true man should be neither humble nor arrogant!


    As Li Ziye approached the lake, Qin E''nuo turned around. Her gaze was calm, indifferent, and devoid of any emotions.


    However, this indifferent gaze seemed more terrifying than any threat at this moment.


    Li Ziye trembled as if struck by lightning, and the imposing expression he had just now disappeared instantly.


    "Fairy Master, I''m back. Did you sleep well last night?" Li Ziye approached with a flattering smile, greeting her.


    "..."


    Slovenly Zhang turned his face away in speechlessness. How embarrassing!


    He actually expected this kid to have some backbone? He must have drunk too much and his brain was waterlogged.


    "Go practice your sword."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "Alright!"


    Li Ziye obediently nodded and immediately ran to the side to start practicing his sword.


    "Did he really kill all those bandits by himself? Are you sure you didn''t help him?" Slovenly Zhang asked with some doubt.


    "No, he''s a genius."


    "A genius? Him?"


    Slovenly Zhang sneered, "He can''t even open his meridians."


    "What I mean is, he''s a genius at killing."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly, "How long did it take you to adapt when you killed for the first time?"


    Slovenly Zhang frowned and thought for a moment before saying, "One day."


    Killing was not a pleasant feeling, even now, he didn''t like it.


    "Last night, he killed more than a dozen people. When I saw him, he could still smile. Could you have done that when you were his age?" Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "No, I couldn''t."


    Slovenly Zhang''s expression slightly changed. He understood what Qin E''nuo meant.


    This kid, if he wasn''t naturally cold and ruthless, then he had an incredibly firm mentality and strong adaptability.


    "The people of the Li Family are indeed extraordinary."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed lightly, "What I thought was trash turned out to be the most terrifying person in the end."


    "A firm mentality is the most valuable quality in martial arts. I''m looking forward to what he will achieve after opening all eight meridians." Qin E''nuo gazed at the young man not far away and said softly.


    "It''s difficult."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed, "Even with so many potent medicines and a King Medicine, you can only help him open one meridian at most. A person has eight meridians, where can you find so many King Medicines? Without King Medicines, relying solely on those potent medicines, according to the current progress, it would take at least three to five years to open all eight meridians."The Medicine King is not something that can be easily obtained. Even with the astonishing wealth of the Li Family, it is still difficult to find so many Medicine Kings at once.


    He and Qin E''nuo had underestimated the difficulty of reconstructing the Eight Extraordinary Meridians. After all, no one had ever attempted such a thing before.


    "There''s no rush for the Medicine King."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "I heard that the Imperial Academy in the Capital City has a thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root. If necessary, I can make a trip there."


    "The Imperial Academy?"


    Upon hearing this, Slovenly Zhang''s expression slightly changed, "Are you sure you want to go there? The old fellow in the Imperial Academy is not simple. Even you, if you forcibly take it, may not be able to escape unscathed."


    In this world, there are countless strong individuals. It''s hard to rank them, but the old fellow in the Imperial Academy is definitely recognized as one of the top three, or even the strongest.


    The Confucian Scholar of the Imperial Academy, Kong Qiu!


    "Unless it''s absolutely necessary, I won''t forcibly take it." Qin E''nuo softly said.


    While they were talking, by the lake, Li Ziye was still practicing his swordsmanship with sweat pouring down his face. After last night''s battle, his sword now carried an added aura of solemn killing intent.


    "Fairy, everything is ready."


    At this moment, a servant from the Li Residence hurried over and respectfully said.


    "Mm."


    Qin E''nuo nodded, her gaze falling on the young man in front of her. She said, "Li Ziye, stop practicing for now and come with me."


    After speaking, Qin E''nuo walked towards the pharmacy.


    Li Ziye, puzzled, sheathed his sword and quickly followed.


    In the pharmacy, large medicine barrels were steaming hot. Today, the water seemed to be much hotter than usual.


    "Get in." Qin E''nuo said.


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye promptly took off his outer clothes and familiarly stepped into the medicine barrel.


    Immediately, unbearable heat mixed with medicinal power surged from all directions.


    In front of the medicine barrel, Qin E''nuo walked over without any unnecessary words and slapped Li Ziye''s chest.


    "Ah!"


    In an instant, a pig-slaughtering-like scream echoed again. Inside the medicine barrel, Li Ziye curled up in pain, his body trembling uncontrollably, and cold sweat pouring down.


    Outside, the servants hearing the miserable screams from the pharmacy were terrified and dared not approach.


    Inside the pharmacy, Qin E''nuo opened the wooden box containing the Blood Ginseng Medicine King and took out the ginseng.


    At this moment, even the usually calm Qin E''nuo''s expression became serious.


    Whether her guess was correct or not, it would be confirmed today.


    Reconstructing the meridians was something no one had ever attempted before. Only the Li Family, with their enormous wealth and countless potent medicines, could possibly create a miracle with these medicines and the Medicine King.


    "From now on, no matter how painful it is, you must endure!"


    Qin E''nuo solemnly warned, then her Genuine Qi surged around her body. With a shake of her delicate hand, the Blood Ginseng was shattered.


    The Genuine Qi enveloped the red essence of the Medicine King, which turned into a blood mist and continuously entered Li Ziye''s chest, repairing his shattered meridians. In just a few moments, Qin E''nuo''s forehead was covered in a thin layer of sweat, clearly not an easy task.


    Inside the medicine barrel, Li Ziye clenched his teeth, his body shaking violently. The pain of broken meridians and crushed bones was not something ordinary people could endure.


    Outside the pharmacy, by the lake, Slovenly Zhang was drinking jug after jug of wine. Soon, one jug was emptied.


    Slovenly Zhang immediately opened another jug. At this moment, perhaps even the Sword Enthusiast himself hadn''t noticed that his hand holding the jug was starting to tremble slightly.


    Time, at this moment, seemed so long.


    After an unknown amount of time, suddenly, a piercing scream came from the pharmacy, shocking everyone.


    Immediately, a loud bang echoed. Inside the pharmacy, a huge force exploded, blowing up the entire medicine barrel. Water splashed everywhere, wetting everything around.


    On the ground, Li Ziye sat weakly, panting heavily, his face covered in sweat.


    In front of him, Qin E''nuo was not much better. Her long hair and dress were wet from the splashing water, and there was a trace of blood at the corner of her mouth. She looked more disheveled than ever before.


    After a long while, Qin E''nuo suppressed the chaotic Genuine Qi in her body and said tiredly, "Rest for half a day, then go practice your sword."


    After saying this, Qin E''nuo didn''t say anything more. She hurriedly left the pharmacy and headed towards her own room.


    Inside the pharmacy, Li Ziye staggered to his feet and walked to the lakeside, collapsing weakly onto the ground.


    "Old Zhang, it was a success."


    Li Ziye spoke weakly, his feelings somewhat complicated, not exactly joyful. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The price paid to unblock his meridians was too great.


    This was the first time he had seen Qin E''nuo in such a disheveled state. This favor was a bit too heavy.


    "Qin E''nuo, not bad."


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of his wine and said seriously, "Especially towards you."

 Chapter 12 – A pig

    Li Residence, after half a day of leisure, Li Ziye lay by the lake for half a day, not wanting to move a finger.


    In the afternoon, Qin E''nuo walked out of the room, changed into a new outfit, still as extraordinary and elegant as ever.


    "Go practice sword."


    Qin E''nuo walked to the lake and said lightly.


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye sat up straight and walked to the side to practice sword.


    "Qin E''nuo, I admire you!"


    Slovenly Zhang spoke up seriously.


    "It''s because his willpower is strong enough. If it were someone else, I can''t guarantee that they would succeed."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "Although that kid is not bad, without your help, he would never be able to open up a meridian in his lifetime."


    Slovenly Zhang responded, "Now, although his cultivation talent is still the worst among all martial artists, at least he can start cultivating."


    Opening up one meridian allows one to attempt to unlock the divine hidden technique within the body. If successful, it means officially stepping onto the path of martial arts.


    Of course, just opening up one meridian means that this kid''s cultivation speed will definitely be very slow, even to the point of being frustratingly slow.


    Fortunately, the Li Residence has plenty of silver, so even if this kid''s martial arts talent is lacking, he can make up for it with countless potent medicines and elixirs.


    "There is another problem."


    Slovenly Zhang looked at the young man not far away and asked curiously, "What cultivation technique are you planning to let him practice?"


    "There is a technique that I want him to try."


    Qin E''nuo gazed at the lake in front of her and said, "Flying Immortal Art."


    "A sword comes from the west, flying immortal from beyond the heavens."


    Slovenly Zhang''s expression changed when he heard this, and he said, "The sword technique of the first generation Sword God during the Great Shang Dynasty a thousand years ago. Do you really want this kid to learn it? This technique is almost no different from external cultivation. It is extremely difficult to practice. For thousands of years, no one has been able to master it except for the first generation Sword God."


    "Desperate times call for desperate measures."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly, "He only has three years. What cultivation technique do you think he can use to catch up to Huo Lin''er?"


    Slovenly Zhang fell silent after hearing this.


    Three years is too short. Huo Lin''er is one of the four great geniuses of this era, with terrifying martial arts talent. This kid has only opened up one meridian, so no matter what cultivation technique he practices, he cannot catch up to Huo Lin''er.


    This is the reality, although cruel, no one can change it.


    "If his cultivation level can''t catch up, then we can only start from the techniques."


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    Qin E''nuo said seriously, "The Flying Immortal Art focuses more on techniques rather than cultivation level. He was able to create Tai Chi, which shows that he has the talent for swordsmanship. Perhaps, after pushing his sword techniques to the extreme, he can walk his own path of martial arts like the first generation Sword God from a thousand years ago."


    "It''s difficult."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed lightly, "In the past thousand years, there have been very few people who have truly walked their own path of martial arts. Even you and I cannot completely break free from the shackles of our predecessors. The beginning of this kid''s martial arts journey is already so difficult. It is unimaginable how long he can persist."


    "Sword Enthusiast." Qin E''nuo spoke up.


    "What''s the matter? Do you have something to say?" Slovenly Zhang asked.


    "You have amazing martial arts skills, but no disciples. Aren''t you regretful?" Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "Heh."


    Slovenly Zhang smiled faintly and said, "Having wine and a sword is enough. Qin E''nuo, just say what you want to say, no need to beat around the bush."


    "Let''s teach him the Flying Immortal Art together. I alone cannot completely reproduce the Sword God''s techniques." Qin E''nuo proposed.


    "I didn''t expect that Plum Blossom Sword Immortal like you would have a time when you need help." Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and said with a smile, "Why should I help you, or rather, help this kid?"


    "As fellow sword cultivators, don''t you want to see if there is someone in this world who can reproduce the brilliance of the first generation Sword God, or even surpass that Sword God?" Qin E''nuo said seriously.


    "Heh, your ambition is really big. To be honest, I don''t have much hope for him, but..."


    Slovenly Zhang said a sentence, then his tone changed, and he said with a slight smile, "I am interested in your proposal. If the two of us join forces to teach him, with the endless resources of the Li Residence and the Flying Immortal Art of the first generation Sword God, even a pig should be able to awaken."


    After speaking, Slovenly Zhang drank all the wine in the jar, and a rare impulse to try arose in his heart.


    To be honest, having lived for so many years, he has seen all kinds of geniuses, but a waste like Li Ziye, who has not opened up any meridians, is the first time he has seen.


    This challenge excited him.


    With him and Qin E''nuo joining forces, it should be considered the most luxurious lineup in the world.


    Two sword immortals, the strongest technique in the world, coupled with endless elixirs and potent medicines from the Li Residence, he didn''t believe that they couldn''t defy this bullshit destiny.


    On the side, Qin E''nuo listened to Sword Enthusiast''s words, and a hint of interest flashed in her beautiful eyes.


    At their level of cultivation, there are indeed few things that can challenge them, but teaching Li Ziye, this waste, is truly the biggest challenge in this world.


    Thinking of this, Qin E''nuo looked at the "pig" not far away and said, "Li Ziye, come here!"


    "Coming."


    Li Ziye heard the words and walked over eagerly.


    Slovenly Zhang and Qin E''nuo looked at the "pig" walking towards them, then nodded at each other, and from today onwards, they would join forces to defy this so-called destiny.


    "Li Ziye."


    After the two of them withdrew their gazes, Qin E''nuo calmly spoke, "Have you heard of the Flying Immortal Art?"


    "I have."Li Ziye nodded vigorously, "The world''s foremost cultivation method, it is said, is extremely difficult to cultivate. Apart from the first generation Sword God during the establishment of the Great Shang dynasty, no one else has been able to master it."


    "Do you know why?" Qin E''nuo continued to ask.


    "I don''t know."


    Li Ziye shook his head.


    "Because the Flying Immortal Decision only records a very small portion of the method for cultivating Genuine Qi. Not only is it not exquisite, it is even inferior to those mediocre techniques. Therefore, the progress of cultivation is extremely slow. As for the rest of the Flying Immortal Decision, it records all the moves, which can indeed be called exquisite. However, in the path of cultivation, Genuine Qi is the foundation. Even the most exquisite moves require the drive of Genuine Qi. Without a strong cultivation base, one cannot bring out the power of the moves." Qin E''nuo explained.


    "Can''t I first cultivate other techniques, and when I have a strong cultivation base, then practice the moves of the Flying Immortal Decision?" Li Ziye asked curiously.


    "No."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head, "Many people have tried your method, cultivating other techniques first, then practicing the moves of the Flying Immortal Decision, but it is almost useless. Some people even persist in this and end up going mad."


    "Then if I cultivate the techniques in the Flying Immortal Decision, will my progress be as slow as theirs?" Li Ziye voiced his concern.


    "Heh."


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang sneered, "Don''t worry, being slow is inevitable. You don''t need to worry about this at all. You, who have only opened one meridian, are a hopeless waste. No matter what technique you cultivate, there''s basically no room for you to fall further."


    "..."


    Li Ziye wanted to stab this old geezer with a sword.


    "What Sword Enthusiast said is true."


    Qin E''nuo added fuel to the fire, thought for a moment, and then comforted, "However, the Li Residence has plenty of silver. With countless heavenly treasures and miraculous pills, plus the guidance of Sword Enthusiast and me, perhaps, you have a glimmer of hope to succeed."


    "..."


    Li Ziye still didn''t want to speak.


    Suddenly, Li Ziye came back to his senses, looked at the old man by the lake, and asked in surprise, "Old Zhang, are you also going to teach me swordsmanship?"


    "What, can''t I?"


    Slovenly Zhang smirked, "Kid, you should be laughing. Many talented individuals have begged me to teach them, but I refused. You''re lucky to have both Qin E''nuo and me guiding you. You should try your best. If you still can''t achieve anything, Qin E''nuo and I will lose face."


    "I''ll try my best."


    Li Ziye gave an awkward smile. It wasn''t his fault that his talent was poor. He also wanted to be like those peerless geniuses, advancing by leaps and bounds in cultivation, unrivaled in the world. Unfortunately, reality didn''t allow it. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You should first memorize the mental method of the Flying Immortal Decision and practice it at dawn and dusk every day."


    Qin E''nuo threw a roll of parchment over and said, "As for the moves, Sword Enthusiast and I will teach you."


    Li Ziye took the parchment and began to memorize the cultivation method.


    About a dozen breaths later, Li Ziye looked up and said, "I''ve memorized it."


    "That was quick."


    Slovenly Zhang was surprised. Such a short time was only enough to read it once.


    "I have a good memory. It''s natural."


    Li Ziye grinned, revealing eight white teeth.


    "Heh, at least you have some advantages."


    Slovenly Zhang smiled faintly.


    "Watch carefully."


    Beside him, Qin E''nuo saw this and calmly said a word, then stepped forward, brushing past Li Ziye.


    Without time to react, the Frost sword in Li Ziye''s hand had disappeared.


    Qin E''nuo took back her sword and walked forward.


    The next moment, in the backyard of the Li Residence, a fairy danced with a sword, flowers and leaves flying all over the garden. A Frost sword, its Cold Light blinding, its sword aura spanning three hundred feet.


    By the lake, Li Ziye was shocked by the sight.


    A hall full of drunken guests, a sword that freezes fourteen states.


    Is this what a sword is? Is this what a Sword Immortal is?


    "Haha, kid, watch carefully!"


    Beside him, Slovenly Zhang laughed loudly, swung his sword, and stepped forward like a shooting star. With a jug of wine and a sword, he was full of pride, his sword aura soaring into the sky.


    The indescribable scene became the most unforgettable memory in Li Ziye''s life. Two Sword Immortals, two swords, their bodies like wind and thunder, their swords like stars, recreating the unparalleled elegance of the Sword God of a thousand years ago.


    Half a moment later, the wind stopped, the leaves fell, the sword light dissipated, and everything returned to calm.


    Qin E''nuo left, and Slovenly Zhang returned to the lake to continue drinking. No one disturbed Li Ziye, who was deeply shocked.


    After an unknown amount of time, Li Ziye finally came back to his senses. He looked at Slovenly Zhang and asked hoarsely, "Old Zhang, how long will it take for me to reach your level?"


    "Thirty years."


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and said calmly.


    "What about catching up with the first generation Sword God?"


    Li Ziye asked again.


    "Three hundred years."


    Slovenly Zhang replied, then added, "That is, if you can live that long without dying!"

 Chapter 13 – Divine Hidden Technique

    The sun sets, and the stars shine brightly in the sky.


    After Li Ziye finished practicing his sword, he left the Li Residence and has not returned since.


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and looked at the lake in front of him. He casually asked, "Aren''t you worried that the bandits will kill that kid if you don''t go with him?"


    "If he can''t handle those bandits, then there''s no need for him to continue learning the sword," Qin E''nuo replied.


    "The leader of those bandits is a true warrior, even though he has only opened the first Divine Hidden Technique. It''s not something he can handle right now," Slovenly Zhang reminded.


    "It doesn''t matter."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "I didn''t ask him to confront those bandits head-on. Even if he''s unlucky and encounters the bandit leader, he can still run away. The terrain in the mountains is complex, and there''s always a way to survive."


    "Hmph, you''re really cold-hearted as a master."


    Slovenly Zhang responded indifferently and continued drinking without saying much.


    If his master doesn''t care, then he doesn''t care either.


    Life is a matter of luck, and death is fate. It depends on whether that kid is lucky or not.


    Under the bright moon in the Qilian Mountains, the once peaceful forest is now bustling with activity.


    In the night, a young figure desperately flees, with twenty or so bandits chasing after him, turning the quiet forest into chaos.


    Li Ziye''s luck is really bad.


    He had originally planned to find a few bandits on patrol to practice his skills under the cover of night. But unexpectedly, he accidentally alerted the bandit leader.


    What''s even more troublesome is that it''s unclear whether Qin E''nuo stole the Blood Ginseng Medicine King, but the bandit leader, filled with anger and nowhere to vent, went crazy and personally led his men to chase after Li Ziye.


    As a result, the entire forest became lively.


    "Search for him! Even if you have to dig three feet into the ground, find that kid for me!"


    After chasing for who knows how long, the bandit leader looked at the empty forest ahead and shouted in anger.


    "Yes, Chief!"


    Behind him, more than twenty bandits dispersed and searched with torches.


    In the dark night, Li Ziye hid in the weeds, looking at the numerous bandits surrounding him, feeling overwhelmed.


    How can he fight against a group of them alone?


    Moreover, the bandit leader is a practitioner who has opened the Divine Hidden Technique.


    Li Ziye tightly gripped his sword and cautiously moved away from the bandit leader''s direction under the cover of night.


    He can''t defeat this bastard right now, so he can only hide.


    Once he opens the Divine Hidden Technique, he''ll come back for revenge.


    After retreating for about a hundred feet, Li Ziye looked at two bandits who were close by and suddenly rushed towards them.


    "Swish!"


    Frost unsheathed, and a cold light illuminated the surroundings. The two bandits didn''t even have time to react before blood gushed out from their throats, staining the dark night.


    "He''s over there!"


    In the distance, the bandit leader noticed and became furious, shouting, "Chase after him!"


    "You bastard, I won''t accompany you anymore. Goodbye!"


    A hundred feet away, Li Ziye raised his hand and gave them the middle finger, then turned around and ran.


    Half an hour later, a disheveled figure rushed out of the forest, leaped onto a horse outside, and galloped away.


    The night was enchanting. When Li Ziye returned to Yuzhou City, it was already dawn.


    As soon as the city gate opened, Li Ziye entered the city and hurried back to the Li Residence on horseback.


    The servants in the residence were already used to seeing the Young Master return in a disheveled state.


    Several beautiful maids even secretly sent flirtatious glances to Li Ziye, shyly and hesitantly, both rejecting and welcoming.


    "When the Young Master has time, we can discuss life together."


    Li Ziye grinned and responded to the flirtatious glances from the maids, then hurriedly went to the backyard.


    Slovenly Zhang hadn''t arrived at his usual spot by the lake yet, and Qin E''nuo was still in her room getting ready and hadn''t come out.


    Therefore, Li Ziye immediately occupied the best spot by the lake, sat down cross-legged, and began practicing the heart technique of the Flying Immortal Art.


    Old Qin said that the best time to practice the Flying Immortal Art is at dawn and dusk. His talent is so poor that if he doesn''t work hard, he''ll fall even further behind those geniuses.


    Thinking of this, Li Ziye felt a wave of sadness in his heart.


    He is the son of Heaven, how can his presence be so weak? Look at those Divine Children and Buddhist Disciples, how famous they are. The Four Great Arrogant Geniuses in the world, their names sound so cool.


    The more he thought about it, the angrier Li Ziye became. He closed his eyes and gritted his teeth, running the heart technique of the Flying Immortal Art.


    Just at this moment, the door of a nearby room creaked open, and Qin E''nuo walked out. When she saw Li Ziye practicing by the lake, she felt a slight sense of relief.


    At least he''s diligent. No matter what, diligence can make up for lack of talent. If his talent is a little lacking, then he can only work harder.


    However, before her thoughts could settle, Qin E''nuo suddenly trembled, her face showing a look of shock.


    Something''s not right!


    At the same time, in the adjacent room, Slovenly Zhang pushed open the door and looked at the figure by the lake, his eyes filled with surprise.


    "Qin E''nuo, didn''t you tell him to practice with a calm and peaceful mind, without any emotions?" Slovenly Zhang said in a deep voice.


    "I thought he knew."


    Qin E''nuo''s expression darkened as she spoke. This is common knowledge for martial artists, so she didn''t pay much attention to it.


    "This is troublesome."


    Slovenly Zhang clenched his fist and said, "I hope this kid is lucky and doesn''t go astray."


    By the lake, Li Ziye continued to practice the heart technique of the Flying Immortal Art while feeling resentful and angry.


    He didn''t know that behind him, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang were anxiously sweating.


    As time passed, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang''s palms were already sweating nervously, afraid that Li Ziye would ruin himself right at the beginning of his practice.


    If that were to happen, it would be a big joke. Two Sword Immortals teaching a disciple, and within ten days, they turned him into an idiot. If this were to spread, it would be the biggest joke in the Nine Provinces in a thousand years.


    "Something''s not right."Half an hour later, Slovenly Zhang looked at Li Ziye, who was still meditating by the lake, and frowned, "Why is there no movement at all?"


    Normally, if one''s mind is not calm during cultivation, even if they don''t lose control and go berserk, they should at least cough up some blood.


    The current situation was too strange, too quiet.


    "Should we wake him up?" Slovenly Zhang suggested.


    "No."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head, her expression serious, "Forcibly waking him up could lead to worse consequences. Let''s wait a bit longer."


    Slovenly Zhang nodded and patiently continued to wait.


    In the east, the morning sun slowly rose, and the first ray of dawn scattered across the earth, dispelling the cold of the night.


    Under their watchful eyes, suddenly, with Li Ziye as the center, the lake shore, without any wind, started to ripple, and the water surface stirred up waves.


    Upon seeing this, both Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang trembled, their faces filled with shock.


    Impossible!


    "Hum!"


    At this moment, Li Ziye''s chest, where his Divine Hidden Technique was located, roared like a thousand thunderbolts were raging within. Around him, an endless amount of spiritual energy from heaven and earth surged towards him, continuously pouring into his Divine Hidden Technique.


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    This astonishing scene left the two experienced Sword Immortals shocked, unable to explain the situation before their eyes.


    "This... this kid just opened one meridian, didn''t he?"


    Slovenly Zhang opened his mouth, struggling to say, "What''s going on?"


    "I don''t know either."


    Qin E''nuo suppressed the waves in her heart, murmuring somewhat absentmindedly, "Perhaps, we were all wrong. No, it should be said that for thousands of years, everyone has been wrong."


    "What do you mean?"


    Slovenly Zhang''s expression changed, as if he understood something, "You mean, the cultivation method of the Flying Immortal Technique is different from all other techniques in the world. For thousands of years, everyone who tried to cultivate this technique was wrong, and this kid accidentally stumbled upon the correct cultivation method?"


    "That''s the only explanation."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "Otherwise, with his martial arts talent, it would be impossible for him to open the first Divine Hidden Technique so quickly."


    "We''ll know when he wakes up."


    Slovenly Zhang looked at the young man in front of him and clicked his tongue, "This kid is really lucky, he even stumbled upon this."


    As they spoke, by the lake, with the influx of spiritual energy, Li Ziye''s chest, where his Divine Hidden Technique was located, burst out with dazzling light. The roaring sound was endless, like a world of its own, with thunderbolts raging and oceans rolling.


    Half an hour later, Li Ziye suddenly opened his eyes, his gaze sharp, his eyes sparkling, and the surging Genuine Qi from his chest''s Divine Hidden Technique burst out, rapidly spreading around him.


    Dust was flying, water waves were rippling, and the astonishing momentum was awe-inspiring.


    "Is this what a martial artist is like?"


    Li Ziye looked at his own hands, excitement flashing in his eyes.


    He can do it! He can!


    He felt that he could now take on three Huo Lin''ers.


    "Kid, what are you daydreaming about? You''re drooling."


    Slovenly Zhang looked at Li Ziye, whose eyes were shining, and asked.


    Li Ziye came back to his senses, quickly wiped the corner of his mouth, and chuckled, "I just opened the Divine Hidden Technique, so I''m a bit excited."


    "How did you do it?"


    Qin E''nuo stepped forward and asked.


    "Do what?"


    Li Ziye was puzzled.


    "Originally, according to my calculations, even if Sword Enthusiast and I taught you together, and with the endless treasures of the Li Residence, it would take at least ten days to help you open the first Divine Hidden Technique. If things didn''t go smoothly, it could take a year and a half."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "I''m asking you, what were you thinking about when you were cultivating the Flying Immortal Technique just now?"


    "Thinking about what?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback, then touched his nose and replied somewhat embarrassingly, "I was thinking, why such an outstanding person like me doesn''t have any martial arts talent, while those Divine Children and Buddhist Disciples can be so cool. It''s annoying!"


    Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang looked at each other, then nodded. That must be the reason.


    When cultivating the Flying Immortal Technique, the stronger the emotional fluctuation, the faster the cultivation speed. Being calm and composed, on the other hand, is not conducive to the circulation of Genuine Qi.


    "Perhaps when there is a strong emotional fluctuation, the flow of blood and Qi will speed up, and the Genuine Qi of the Flying Immortal Technique can run faster with the help of the blood and Qi in the meridians." Qin E''nuo voiced her guess.


    "This is really unbelievable."


    After hearing this, Slovenly Zhang felt as if he had swallowed a fly, "I''ve been practicing martial arts for most of my life, and today, I''ve learned something from a youngster."


    Qin E''nuo also sighed lightly. Not only Sword Enthusiast, but she was no exception. Or rather, for thousands of years, everyone was the same. Under the fixed mindset, no one thought about changing.


    On the side, Li Ziye listened to their conversation, grinned, and although he didn''t quite understand what the two big shots were saying, he got one thing.


    He was awesome!


    Maybe, if he practiced for another year and a half, he really could take on three Huo Lin''ers! S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let''s spar!"


    Excited, Li Ziye looked at Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang and said.


    Qin E''nuo was taken aback, and Slovenly Zhang was also stunned.


    Had this kid gone mad?


    "Sword Enthusiast."


    Quickly, Qin E''nuo came back to her senses and calmly said, "You go, don''t cripple him."


    "I''ll try."


    Slovenly Zhang responded with a smirk. He waved his right hand, and immediately, a ancient sword flew out of the room.


    The sword was still in its sheath, but the sword aura was faintly visible.


    The next moment, the sword moved, and the garden was filled with crisscrossing sword aura, causing the water waves to roll back a hundred meters.


    Damn it, Li Ziye saw this and his pupils shrank. He turned around and ran.


    However, it was already too late.


    "Boom!"


    After a loud noise, Slovenly Zhang sheathed his sword, and the water waves in the lake fell.


    On the wall of the backyard, a human-shaped dent appeared. Li Ziye was completely embedded in it, his hair disheveled and his face dirty, looking extremely embarrassed.

 Chapter 14 – Redwood box

    "Where is that brat, you bunch of useless fools!"


    As night fell, Li Ziye, who had been severely reprimanded by the Sword Enthusiast, arrived at the Qilian Mountains filled with rage, venting his anger on the bandits in the mountains.


    Thus, the forest once again became lively.


    After unlocking the Divine Hidden Technique, the only meridian that Li Ziye had opened was surging with Genuine Qi. His movements, whether in speed or strength, had greatly improved.


    "Boss, he ran to the west!"


    In front of the bandit camp, a bandit ran up and reported urgently.


    "What are you waiting for, go after him!"


    The bandit leader roared.


    "Yes!"


    This time, except for a few bandits guarding the camp, everyone else chased after him in a dense crowd.


    In the forest, Li Ziye led a group of bandits in a game of hide and seek. In two hours, they had almost circled half of the Qilian Mountains.


    "Boss, what is this kid trying to do, isn''t he tired?"


    Next to the bandit leader, a bandit with a sharp mouth and monkey cheeks asked, panting as he watched the young man disappearing at the edge of his vision.


    "No matter what he wants to do, catch him alive for me. I want to skin him alive."


    The bandit leader roared, then led his men to continue the chase.


    Deep in the forest, after leading the bandits around for half the night, Li Ziye stealthily returned to the bandit camp.


    "Who''s there!"


    In the bandit camp, only a dozen or so bandits were left to guard. Seeing the newcomer, their expressions changed drastically.


    "The tables have turned, let''s see how arrogant you can be now."


    Li Ziye looked at the dozen or so bandits in the camp and smirked maliciously, "Drop your weapons, you''re surrounded by me. Surrender and you won''t die!"


    "Brothers, there''s only one of him, kill him!"


    In the camp, a bandit saw that there was no one behind Li Ziye, slightly relieved, and shouted loudly.


    "Kill!"


    The remaining bandits plucked up their courage and charged with their sabers.


    "You refuse a toast only to be forced to drink a forfeit."


    Li Ziye grinned, took a step forward, and charged with his sword.


    The bandits were fierce, but that was only against the powerless commoners.


    Li Ziye was a freak who was even more brutal than the bandits.


    Under the night, Li Ziye, holding Frost, swung his sword like a madman, like a lunatic. In no time, he had knocked all the bandits to the ground.


    Li Ziye had unlocked the Divine Hidden Technique and was somewhat a martial artist. He was not what he used to be. Moreover, how could the sabers of the bandits compare with the Frost, the sword of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal.


    So, Li Ziye finally fulfilled his dream of his previous life, slashing a group with one swing.


    "Hahaha!"


    Seeing all the bandits fall, Li Ziye stood in place and laughed arrogantly.


    A bunch of weaklings.


    "Boss, he''s over there!"


    However, before Li Ziye could be arrogant for too long, a bandit with sharp eyes spotted Li Ziye''s whereabouts from a high place in the distance and shouted, "He''s gone to our camp."


    "Not good, he''s lured the tiger away from the mountain. Follow me back quickly."


    The bandit leader was shocked and immediately led his men back the way they came.


    Inside the bandit camp, Li Ziye kicked open the door and looked at the treasures hidden inside. He casually flipped through them and quickly lost interest.


    They were all gold, silver, and jewels, so tacky!


    These bandits were too poor, they didn''t even have any decent treasures.


    "Hmm?"


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    After looking around, Li Ziye noticed the tiger skin chair where the bandit leader sat and walked over.


    After searching for a while and finding nothing, Li Ziye thought for a moment, lifted his sword, and slashed down.


    Boom!


    With a loud noise, the tiger skin chair was cut in half.


    "Haha! I knew it, how could there be no treasures!"


    Li Ziye looked at the redwood box under the tiger skin chair, his face showing excitement, and picked up the box.


    "Brat, you''re courting death, put down what''s in your hands!"


    At this moment, outside the bandit camp, the bandit leader and his men had chased back. Seeing the young man in front of the tiger skin chair, his face changed instantly, and he shouted angrily.


    "You want it, come chase me!"


    Li Ziye waved the wooden box in his hand, then stomped his foot, smashed the window, and escaped.


    "Chase! We must get the box in his hand back!"


    The bandit leader roared angrily.


    "Yes!"


    Behind him, many bandits heard the order and chased after him again.


    In the forest, Li Ziye held the redwood box and ran desperately, not daring to stop for a moment.


    Behind him, a dense crowd of bandits chased madly. The bandit leader at the front was even more furious, wishing he could kill the thief in front of him.


    That thing must not fall into the hands of others!


    The night was deep, and Li Ziye didn''t know how long he had been running. Anyway, there were fewer and fewer bandits behind him, and only a few could keep up.


    However, the bandit leader had been chasing closely and had not been left behind at all.


    So, Li Ziye held the redwood box in his hand even tighter.


    He knew that something that the bandit leader cared so much about must be extraordinary.


    After another half an hour of chasing, only two people were still able to run in the forest. However, they were so tired that they were panting and had to stop to catch their breath.


    The bandit leader leaned against a big tree, panting heavily, and shouted breathlessly, "Kid, as long as you hand over the box, I will write off our grudges. I can let you leave alive."


    "Heh, dream on. If you have the ability, catch up with me."


    Li Ziye was also so tired that he could hardly straighten his waist, but he still refused to admit defeat and responded.


    "In that case, you hand over the box, and you can pick anything from my camp. Gold, silver, and treasures, all yours." The bandit leader''s face changed, and he suppressed his anger, speaking in a good tone.


    "Don''t waste your effort, I lack everything, but not silver. Are you still chasing or not? If you''re not chasing, I''m leaving."


    Li Ziye said, then forced himself to straighten up and continued to run.


    "Brat, don''t let me catch you, or I''ll make you wish you were dead!"


    The bandit leader''s face darkened, and he also forced himself to stand up and staggered to chase after him.


    In the east, a hint of white appeared, indicating that dawn was approaching.The exit of the forest was right in front of him, but as Li Ziye turned to look at the bandit leader behind him, his expression froze.


    Where was he?


    Did he lose him?


    "Kid, prepare to die!"


    At that moment, a figure burst out from not far away, his fist howling through the air, breaking the silence.


    The sudden punch, seemingly with the power to split mountains and shatter rocks, even made the air resonate with a crackling sound.


    Caught off guard by the surprise attack, Li Ziye''s face darkened slightly. He held his Frost sword horizontally, trying to block the heavy punch.


    Boom!


    With a thunderous collision, Li Ziye was sent flying, crashing directly into a large tree behind him.


    "Puh!"


    The massive force of the punch hit him, and Li Ziye felt a sweetness in his throat, spitting out a mouthful of blood.


    "Kid, if you don''t drink the toast, you''ll have to drink the penalty. Hand over the box!" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The bandit leader stepped forward, his face gloomy.


    "Dream on!"


    Suppressing his injuries, Li Ziye secretly measured the distance between them. As the bandit leader approached within three steps, he suddenly sprang up, thrusting his sword out.


    The bandit leader''s eyes narrowed, not expecting the young man in front of him to still have strength left. Caught off guard, he couldn''t dodge in time and was stabbed in the chest.


    Swish!


    The sword pierced his body, bringing out a spray of blood. The bandit leader grunted and retreated several steps.


    "Think you can catch me? Do you have the ability?"


    Li Ziye withdrew his sword. Despite his severe injuries, he showed no desire to continue fighting. He staggered towards the edge of the forest with his sword.


    Behind him, the bandit leader wanted to pursue, but stumbled, spitting out a mouthful of blood.


    "Kid!"


    The bandit leader watched the young man disappear into the forest, his eyes filled with murderous intent.


    Outside Yuzhou City, a fast horse galloped in. The young man on the horse seemed to have fainted.


    The guards at the gate stopped the horse. Recognizing the young man on the horse, they were shocked.


    "Isn''t this the Third Young Master of the Li Residence? How did he get so badly injured?" one of the guards exclaimed.


    "Stop asking questions, hurry up and send him back to the Li Residence."


    Another guard said solemnly. The Li Residence was one of the top powers in Yuzhou City. Even the city lord had to be polite to the head of the Li Residence. If anything happened to the Third Young Master of the Li Residence, the whole Yuzhou City would be shaken.


    When Li Ziye was brought back to the Li Residence, the whole place was in chaos.


    Li Baiwan rushed back in a hurry. Seeing the severely injured and unconscious Li Ziye, he was so heartbroken that he was on the verge of tears.


    "Fairy, what happened to Ziye?" Li Baiwan asked Qin E''nuo, who was standing by the bed, anxiously.


    "He''s broken a few ribs, but he''ll be fine."


    After examining Li Ziye''s injuries, Qin E''nuo said in a steady voice, "Take him to the pharmacy."


    With that, Qin E''nuo stood up and walked out.


    By the lakeside, Slovenly Zhang watched the chaotic backyard, took a sip of his wine, and didn''t go forward to add to the chaos.


    This kid must have run into the bandit leader head-on.


    Qin E''nuo had said that the bandit leader had already reached the mid-stage of the Divine Hidden Technique. This kid had just opened his Divine Hidden Technique and had faced him. It was already very difficult for him to come back alive.


    He''s still too weak!


    This was just a bandit leader. His real opponent was Huo Lin''er, one of the four great prodigies of the world. If he didn''t think of other ways, he would never catch up in this lifetime.


    In the pharmacy, Li Ziye was lifted into a medicinal barrel. Qin E''nuo stepped forward, her expression serious, her Genuine Qi surging around her, and she directed it into Li Ziye''s body.


    The next moment, steam rose from the medicinal barrel. Soon, the entire pharmacy was filled with mist.


    "Ugh!"


    In his unconscious state, Li Ziye let out a painful groan, and his body began to tremble.


    The continuous influx of medicinal power and Genuine Qi began to heal the wound on Li Ziye''s chest. It was a sight to behold.


    More than half an hour later, Qin E''nuo walked out of the pharmacy, looking extremely tired.


    "How is he?"


    Slovenly Zhang asked.


    "He''s fine."


    Qin E''nuo replied tiredly.


    "Lucky kid."


    Slovenly Zhang breathed a sigh of relief, "What did this kid do? Judging by the palm print on his chest, the bandit leader was clearly furious and wanted to kill him."


    "Perhaps it has something to do with this."


    Qin E''nuo threw a redwood box to him.


    Slovenly Zhang caught the redwood box, opened it with a puzzled look, and his expression changed instantly.

 Chapter 15 – Fiery God Iron

    In front of him, a black stone lay quietly in the redwood box, looking no different.


    However, Zhang Slovenly''s expression changed slightly when he saw this stone.


    "What''s different about this stone?"


    Qin E''nuo asked in confusion. She had already seen this stone before and didn''t find anything special about it.


    "Qin E''nuo, although your cultivation is slightly higher than mine, you are far inferior to me in terms of knowledge."


    Zhang Slovenly regained his composure, looked at the woman in front of him, grinned, and said, "Do you know what this is?"


    "I don''t know."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head.


    "This is the Fiery God Iron."


    As he spoke, Zhang Slovenly infused a strand of Genuine Qi into the stone. Suddenly, the whole stone began to change, cracks appeared, and waves of heat surged.


    Seeing this, Qin E''nuo''s expression slightly condensed.


    "This God Iron is the most yang treasure in the world. It is said to be a treasure formed after the stars fell from the sky and incubated in the underground fire for thousands of years. It is much more precious than the thousand-year Cold Iron in your Frost Sword." Zhang Slovenly said.


    Upon hearing this, Qin E''nuo narrowed her eyes and said, "So it is indeed a treasure. Since there is such a treasure, can it be used to forge a sword for him?"


    "The difficulty lies here."


    Zhang Slovenly helplessly said, "This thing was formed in the underground fire. It is unlikely that any flame in the world can melt it. It is difficult to use this God Iron to forge a sword."


    "Is there no other way?" Qin E''nuo frowned.


    "Not completely."


    Zhang Slovenly thought for a moment and said, "I once read in an ancient book that when great blacksmiths were forging, they would add things with opposite properties to the divine materials. This would prevent the divine materials from being too rigid and brittle, and help them take shape."


    "Things with opposite properties?"


    Qin E''nuo murmured softly, "That would require extremely yin things."


    "Indeed, but it is not easy to find something of the same level as this Fiery God Iron with extremely yin properties."


    Zhang Slovenly said in a deep voice.


    "Yes, it is indeed not easy."


    Qin E''nuo nodded and said, "Sword Enthusiast, don''t you think there is something unusual about this?"


    "What do you mean?"


    Zhang Slovenly asked in confusion.


    "Why would those insignificant bandits in the Qilian Mountains have such a divine object? However, I don''t even recognize this God Iron, but the bandit leader knows its value and has hidden it very securely. Isn''t that strange?" Qin E''nuo said.


    "Hearing you say that, it does seem suspicious."


    Zhang Slovenly frowned, "If they accidentally obtained this treasure, it would be understandable. However, even if ordinary people saw it, they would only treat it as a piece of ordinary stone and wouldn''t be able to recognize it. The bandit leader could tell that it is a treasure. Unless someone pointed it out, the only explanation is that he already knew what this stone is."


    "The guilty party suspects others of his own crime. If someone pointed it out to him, the bandit leader wouldn''t be able to keep this divine object."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "The most likely explanation is that he already knew the value of this stone. In that case, the bandit leader is not an ordinary person."


    Zhang Slovenly nodded and said, "I didn''t expect that there would be hidden dragons and crouching tigers everywhere in this small Yuzhou City. Let''s forget about the Li Residence. Even the bandits in the mountains outside the city are not ordinary people."


    "Perhaps, if we want to find something with opposite properties to the Fiery God Iron, we should start with the bandit leader." Qin E''nuo said.


    "That makes sense."


    Zhang Slovenly nodded, smiled, and said, "What? Are you going to take action yourself?"


    "I can''t let a weak opponent deceive me. Since Li Ziye retrieved this God Iron, let him handle the rest."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "The bandit leader is not a very strong opponent. With Li Ziye''s efforts, he should be able to catch up."


    While the two were talking, Li Ziye, who was unconscious in the pharmacy, slowly opened his eyes. Just as he was about to struggle to get up, a piercing pain in his chest made him tremble.


    After a while, Li Ziye took a deep breath and carefully crawled out of the medicine barrel.


    "Ouch."


    During the process of crawling, Li Ziye accidentally touched his still unhealed sternum, causing him to grimace in pain.


    After nearly half an hour of struggling, Li Ziye finally walked out of the pharmacy and saw the two people by the lake. He gritted his teeth and slowly moved towards them, step by step.


    "Oh, you''re still alive. Not bad, not bad."


    Zhang Slovenly glanced at him and said, "If you didn''t come out, I would have thought you were dead."


    "Phew, phew, what bad luck. I''m perfectly fine, I won''t die."


    Li Ziye said irritably. After finally reaching the lakeside, he sat down with a grimace and said, "But I almost died."


    "How was it? Real cultivators are not as simple as you imagined." Zhang Slovenly said.


    "Very strong." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "If he hadn''t been careless and I hadn''t stabbed him, I might not have made it back."


    "Tell us, what happened?" Zhang Slovenly curiously asked.


    "Well."


    Li Ziye nodded and recounted what had happened last night in detail.


    Zhang Slovenly and Qin E''nuo listened quietly, and after hearing the whole story, they exchanged a glance, their expressions filled with surprise.


    This kid''s reaction is quite good.


    "You did the right thing, kid."


    Zhang Slovenly praised, "Even if you stabbed the bandit leader, if you continued to fight, it would have been you who died. Not bad, you didn''t let a momentary victory cloud your judgment. Well done, you can be taught."


    "Keep a low profile, keep a low profile."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "I just felt that the bandit leader was very strong, and I wasn''t confident in winning against him."


    "You''ll catch up soon."


    Zhang Slovenly nodded, smiled, and said, "What? Are you going to take action yourself?"At the side, Qin E''nuo spoke calmly, "In the next few days, you should first practice the mental cultivation method of the Flying Immortal Technique. Once your injuries are better, I will teach you the sword technique of the Flying Immortal Technique in full force."


    "Really? Thank you, Fairy Master."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye was immediately excited. However, just as he was about to celebrate, he accidentally aggravated his wound, causing him to gasp in pain.


    As Li Ziye officially embarked on the path of martial arts, on the west side of the Capital of the Great Shang Dynasty, the rumbling of a carriage could be heard. After days of travel, Li Youwei and the Third Prince finally arrived at the capital.


    The bustling capital, enduring for a thousand years, had weathered countless storms throughout the Great Shang Dynasty''s reign, yet it still stood tall and unshakeable.


    Even the invincible Sword Immortals had to restrain their sharpness when they arrived at the capital of the Great Shang. This was the foundation of the first city of a thousand years.


    In front of the capital, Li Youwei lifted the curtain of the carriage, looking at the ancient city that had stood for a thousand years, a trace of contemplation appeared on her beautiful face.


    They had finally arrived.


    For many years, the Li Family had been trying to avoid any entanglement with the power of this imperial city. However, the current situation no longer allowed the Li Residence to evade.


    The collision between the Li Family and the power of the capital was inevitable.


    In front of Li Youwei''s carriage, the Third Prince, Mu Yao, looked at the imperial city ahead, a slight smile curling up at the corner of his mouth.


    This trip was not in vain.


    He had completed his mission.


    He was afraid that the people of the Li Family would refuse to come. After all, in Yuzhou City, the Li Family was a dominant force.


    Li Youwei had already arrived, and it wouldn''t be long before Li Ziye would arrive.


    "Let''s go! Enter the city."


    With this thought, Mu Yao let down the curtain and gave the order.


    "Yes!"


    Behind him, the carriage rumbled and slowly drove into the Capital of the Great Shang Dynasty.


    At this moment, in various residences within the Capital of the Great Shang Dynasty, one confidential report after another was delivered. It didn''t take long for the news of the arrival of the Li Family to spread.


    In the palace, a beautiful girl, more charming than a flower, heard the news from a young eunuch and smiled slightly.


    The people of the Li Family had finally arrived.


    Over the years, she had heard her imperial brothers mention the Li Family more than once.


    Even the Emperor had mentioned the Li Family of Yuzhou City several times.


    This showed that the Li Family had gradually gained a significant position in the Great Shang Dynasty.


    However, over the years, the Li Family had never set foot in the capital, so she had never had the chance to meet the people of the Li Family.


    "Ninth Princess, the Fourth Prince is here."


    At this moment, a young eunuch came over quickly and said.


    "My brother? Please invite him in." The young girl said.


    "Yes!"


    The young eunuch took the order and immediately turned to leave.


    Soon, a man dressed in white walked in. His face was cold, without a trace of a smile. His pace was not fast, but every step was exactly the same distance, without any deviation.


    The Fourth Prince, Mu Bai, was one of the four great prodigies of the world, along with the Divine Child of the Heavenly Edict Hall, the Buddhist Disciple of the Buddhist Sect, and Huo Lin''er of the Vermilion Bird Sect. Just standing there, he gave off an indescribable sense of oppression.


    "Brother."


    The young girl stepped forward and respectfully saluted.


    "Murong, your Third Imperial Brother has returned."


    Mu Bai spoke calmly, "Aren''t you going to see him?"


    "Brother, you didn''t go either, did you?"


    Murong stood up straight, smiled charmingly, and said, "Talking to the Third Imperial Brother is too tiring. I''d rather stay in the palace."


    "I heard that the people of the Li Family have also arrived. Is it the legitimate son of the Li Family?"


    Mu Bai asked, "I heard that Li Ziye has taken the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal as his master. If I have the chance, I would like to exchange some pointers with him."


    "I''m afraid I''ll have to disappoint you, Brother."


    Murong smiled and said, "According to my information, the person from the Li Family who came this time is their eldest daughter, Li Youwei. The legitimate son of the Li Family did not come."


    Upon hearing this, Mu Bai''s eyebrows furrowed slightly and he said, "That''s a pity."


    "It''s not a pity."


    Murong''s mouth curled up slightly and she said, "Since the eldest daughter of the Li Family has come, Li Ziye will be here soon."


    "What do you mean?" Mu Bai asked.


    "Brother, you don''t like to play mind games, so don''t ask too much."


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    Murong laughed and said, "In any case, I say that Li Ziye will come, and he will definitely come. You just wait patiently."


    "Alright, I''m leaving."


    Mu Bai nodded, then turned and left.


    Behind him, Murong watched her brother''s retreating figure, a trace of helplessness appearing on her beautiful face.


    Her brother''s character was indeed too strange. Apart from practicing the sword, he had no interest in anything else.


    This was quite unusual in the power-struggling royal family.


    However, just because her brother didn''t compete, it didn''t mean he could stay out of it.


    If her guess was correct, once the legitimate son of the Li Family arrived in the capital, the struggle between the royal family and the Li Family, as well as the open and secret fights between the princes of the royal family, would officially begin.

 Chapter 16 – Flying Immortal Technique

    It has been five days since Li Ziye was severely injured by the leader of the bandits at the Li Residence.


    During these five days, apart from being troubled by Qin E''nuo, Li Ziye soaked in medicinal baths every day and focused on cultivating the heart method of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    As Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang guessed, even though Li Ziye stumbled upon the correct cultivation method for the Flying Immortal Technique by accident and had an endless supply of potent medicine, his cultivation speed was still very slow.


    Very slow!


    Slow to the point of being exasperating!


    Li Ziye, who was as extraordinary as Qin E''nuo, a fairy-like figure, had wanted to give up on this disciple several times and leave.


    If it weren''t for Li Ziye''s thick-skinned persistence and the fact that his acceptance as a disciple was widely known and couldn''t be changed, Qin E''nuo would have truly reached her limit and left.


    "Calm down, this was expected." Slovenly Zhang said with a smirk by the lake.


    "No, at this speed, he will never catch up to Huo Lin''er even after a hundred years of cultivation. We must find a way to open up his other meridians as soon as possible." Qin E''nuo suppressed her anger and said.


    "It''s difficult." Slovenly Zhang said, "The Li Residence indeed has plenty of silver and an abundant supply of potent medicine. However, as you have seen, his body has developed resistance to these potent medicines, and their effects are becoming weaker. At this rate, even if we gather all the potent medicine in the world, it won''t be enough for him to open up all eight meridians."


    It must be said that this kid is like a walking medicine jar. In these days, the amount of potent medicine used on him could probably buy a city.


    It is only because of the Li Residence''s wealth and resources that they can withstand such terrifying consumption.


    "If it really doesn''t work, I will go to the capital city." Qin E''nuo said in a deep voice. If she could obtain the Fo-Ti Root from the Imperial Academy, it would help Li Ziye open up the second meridian and increase his cultivation speed.


    "We should consider this matter carefully. That Confucian Scholar is too formidable, and he has never been defeated in the capital city of Great Shang. Even if you go in person, it will be difficult to succeed." Slovenly Zhang said.


    "If we want to obtain the thousand-year Fo-Ti Root from the Confucian Scholar Kong Qiu, using force is indeed the worst option." Qin E''nuo regained her composure and said, "I will think of other ways. Perhaps the best option is to trade for the Fo-Ti Root from the Imperial Academy."


    "What can move Kong Qiu, the Confucian Scholar who controls the scholars of the world?" Slovenly Zhang sighed lightly.


    Qin E''nuo narrowed her eyes slightly and said, "That kid said something right. Everyone pursues profit, and the only difference is the type of profit. Although Kong Qiu''s status is transcendent, he must also have something he desires or even something he can''t obtain."


    "Speaking of that kid, where is he?" Slovenly Zhang didn''t want to say much on this topic and turned around to ask.


    "He went to Qilian Mountain." Qin E''nuo said calmly, "He left early in the morning, and it''s about time for him to return."


    "Fairy Master!"


    Sure enough, as soon as they mentioned him, Li Ziye hadn''t even appeared yet, but the sound of a pig being slaughtered had already arrived.


    Qin E''nuo frowned and looked towards the backyard.


    Outside the backyard, a disheveled figure of a young man ran back, covered in tattered clothes, with hair as messy as a chicken''s nest, as if he had been mistreated.


    "Oh, what a unique look. Kid, did you steal someone''s wife and get beaten up?" Slovenly Zhang sarcastically said with a smile.


    "Get lost, Old Zhang, can''t you hope for something good for me?" Li Ziye grumbled unhappily, took three steps in two and walked forward with an angry expression, "Fairy Master, I was ambushed by those shameless bandits and almost couldn''t make it back."


    "Oh." Qin E''nuo nodded indifferently.


    Seeing Qin E''nuo''s indifferent attitude, Li Ziye felt very hurt and asked, "Fairy Master, why don''t you care about your disciple at all?"


    "If you keep going to other camps to cause trouble every few days, if it were me, I would find a way to ambush you too." Qin E''nuo said lightly, and added, "As long as you''re not dead."


    "..."


    Li Ziye rubbed his messy hair and didn''t know how to respond.


    Why was his life so bitter?


    "Now that your injuries have almost healed, I will teach you the techniques of the Flying Immortal Technique from today onwards." Qin E''nuo reached out her hand and said, "Give me the sword."


    "Here." Hearing that he could learn the sword technique of the Flying Immortal Technique, Li Ziye immediately became excited and handed over the Frost Sword in his hand.


    Qin E''nuo took the sword, lightly stepped on her feet, and soared into the air. Her graceful figure left behind a splendid rainbow light in the courtyard. Following that, the sword was unsheathed, and the wind and clouds stirred.


    Boom!


    With a loud noise, the Frost Sword cut through the void, and wherever the sword energy passed, dust flew and the stone slabs on the ground split in two. It was unparalleled in sharpness and invincible.After a sword strike, Qin E''nuo stopped and walked back, throwing the Frost Sword over. She said lightly, "Practice according to the footsteps on the ground. When you have mastered it perfectly, I will teach you the next move."


    Li Ziye looked at the footprints on the ground and his face showed astonishment.


    Old Qin was too fast just now. Except for the last sword strike, he didn''t see anything clearly. If it weren''t for the footprints on the ground, he would have thought that Old Qin had been flying all along.


    Since there were footprints, he could do it too.


    With this in mind, Li Ziye walked to the nearest footprint and immediately stepped on it, starting to practice according to the traces left by Old Qin.


    "Ah!"


    However, as soon as Li Ziye reached the second footprint, his body flew out of control and crashed into a tree in front of him.


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang drank from a jar of wine and smiled faintly.


    If the Flying Immortal Technique was so easy to learn, there would have been someone who had mastered it in the past thousand years.


    Just these moves were enough to give this kid a hard time.


    "Plunk!"


    Before Slovenly Zhang''s thoughts could settle, a cool breeze swept by behind him. Immediately, Li Ziye''s figure flew out and plunged straight into the lake.


    "Oh, what''s this? Are you so desperate that you want to jump into the lake?"


    Slovenly Zhang brushed off the splashes of water on his body and mocked.


    "Old Zhang, stop making fun of me. Why is this so difficult to learn? Can''t you help me?" S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Ziye climbed out of the lake in a sorry state and said.


    "The body technique and sword technique of the Flying Immortal Technique are not easy to learn, especially when you use Genuine Qi. If you can''t master the body technique and sword technique of the Flying Immortal Technique proficiently, you might end up hurting yourself like you just did."


    Slovenly Zhang laughed and said, "As for helping, I can responsibly tell you that I can''t help you. Good luck."


    "You''re not a good friend!"


    Li Ziye said unhappily, then got up and continued to practice his sword.


    So, in the backyard of the Li Residence, there were occasional sounds of crashing into walls and trees, and even the sound of falling into the lake.


    Inside the backyard, all the servants were terrified when they walked, afraid of being affected by the crazy Young Master and being thrown into the lake together.


    Until sunset, Li Ziye had not been able to take more than three steps, while Qin E''nuo''s footprints numbered nine.


    "Let''s go, let''s go back to our rooms and sleep."


    After nightfall, Slovenly Zhang got up, brushed off the dirt on his body, and walked towards his room.


    By the lake, only Li Ziye was still practicing his sword, flying out again and again, and getting up again and again.


    Not far away, in a room, Qin E''nuo stood by the window, watching the persistent young man outside. A trace of admiration flashed in her beautiful eyes.


    At least, his tenacious and never-give-up character was unmatched by many.


    For others, let alone enduring the patience to cultivate the moves of the Flying Immortal Technique, they would not even be able to pass the first stage of opening the meridians.


    Shattering the meridians and then repairing them, once a day, constantly repeating, this kind of pain was not something an ordinary person could bear.


    The reason why she stayed in the Li Residence was because she was attracted to this young man''s tenacity.


    Geniuses were common, but those with great perseverance were rare.


    The path of cultivation was ultimately a long tug-of-war. Many geniuses had a start that surpassed ordinary people, but later they became insignificant. What they lacked was this tenacious character.


    Li Ziye was quite good. Perhaps his path of martial arts did not start as well as others, but as long as he could make up for this innate deficiency, one day, his brilliance would shock the world.


    The night was long, and everyone in the Li Residence fell asleep one after another. In the backyard, the figure of the slender young man was still persistently practicing his sword.


    He didn''t want to lose to anyone, even if both Sword Immortals said he couldn''t do it.


    "Plunk!"


    Once again, Li Ziye fell into the lake, then crawled out in a sorry state and lay on the grass, gasping for breath.


    Sword Immortal, what a cool title. He must succeed!


    Since there was a path ahead, he would keep going, even if it was a bit hard, it didn''t matter.


    Now, compared to the situation where there was no way forward before, it was much better, wasn''t it?


    Li Ziye encouraged himself in his heart, then struggled to get up and continued to practice his sword.


    As dawn broke and the rooster crowed, when everyone in the Li Residence woke up, the figure of the young man in the backyard was nowhere to be seen.


    At dawn, after practicing the heart technique of the Flying Immortal Technique, Li Ziye set off for the Qilian Mountains.


    In the backyard, Qin E''nuo looked at the thousands of messy footprints on the ground, silent.


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    The fifth step!


    Indeed, diligence can make up for clumsiness.


    Perhaps, in the near future, he would be able to completely master the first move of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    At the same time, in the capital city of Great Shang.


    When Li Youwei entered the city, various forces began to send people to contact the eldest daughter of the Li Family.In Yuzhou City, the Li Family had long become a legend in the entire Great Shang Dynasty. Over the past decade, they had risen from a common merchant family to a wealth that could rival nations today, even the court dared not underestimate them.


    Therefore, the arrival of the Li Family in the city aroused the interest of many.


    Especially the ministers and forces following the four princes of the Great Shang, they were even more interested in the arrival of the Li Family.


    There were many princes in the Great Shang, but only four truly had the ability to compete for the throne.


    The First Prince, Mu Yuan, the Third Prince, Mu Yao, the Fourth Prince, Mu Bai, and the Eleventh Prince, Mu Qing.


    The struggle between the four, whether overt or covert, whether active or passive, had been going on for many years.


    People called it the Four Princes'' Struggle for Succession.


    However, the first person in the royal family to meet Li Youwei was not any of the four princes.


    It was the most dazzling pearl of the Great Shang Dynasty.


    She was graceful and charming, even the always harsh historian of the Great Shang couldn''t help but make an exception to leave a note in the history books.


    The most beautiful woman in the Great Shang Dynasty.


    The Ninth Princess, Murong!

 Chapter 17 – Murong

    In the bustling scene of the capital city, Yuzhou City, two women sat at a table by the window on the second floor of the Wangxiang Tower.


    Their extraordinary appearances attracted frequent attention from others.


    "Sister Li, please." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Murong spoke and respectfully offered tea instead of wine to the woman in front of her, smiling.


    "Thank you, Princess."


    Li Youwei also raised her cup and took a sip.


    "I heard that Sister Li came to the capital city with my third royal brother. Did you encounter any trouble on the way?" Murong asked softly.


    "No."


    Li Youwei shook her head gently and said, "Thanks to the care of the Third Royal Highness, the journey went smoothly."


    "That''s good."


    Murong smiled and said, "I have heard of Sister Li''s reputation for a long time. When I learned that Sister Li came to the capital city, I couldn''t wait to meet you. I hope Sister Li can forgive my impoliteness."


    "Princess, it''s my honor to be summoned by you." Li Youwei said softly.


    Upon hearing this, Murong smiled lightly and said, "Sister Li, we don''t need to say these polite words anymore. I wonder what Sister Li''s plans are for coming to the capital city. Why not stay at my princess residence for a few days? I haven''t stayed in my mansion outside the palace for a long time. If Sister Li can come, I can also take this opportunity to request my mother to let me stay outside the palace for a few days."


    "Thank you for the invitation, Princess. However, I came to the capital city to discuss cooperation. My itinerary and accommodation have already been arranged, so I can only apologize to the Princess." Li Youwei said calmly.


    "Oh, that''s a pity."


    Murong''s face showed a hint of regret, but quickly returned to normal and said with a smile, "It doesn''t matter. Since Sister Li is in the capital city, there will be plenty of opportunities for Murong to meet you."


    "Okay."


    Li Youwei nodded gently without saying much.


    "By the way, Sister Li, you mentioned cooperation earlier. I wonder if you have any specific candidates in mind. I have a few good candidates that I can recommend to Sister Li." Murong said half politely and half sincerely.


    "When we were in Yuzhou City, the Third Royal Highness mentioned three families to the Li Family: the Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House. The Third Royal Highness said he would help with the recommendations, but we haven''t been able to meet them yet." Li Youwei said.


    "The Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House."


    Murong murmured softly, a flash of light passing through her beautiful eyes.


    The Third Royal Highness really knows how to recommend. Although both of these families have connections with the court, they are also deeply involved with the Third Royal Highness.


    Among the three candidates, two of them are under the influence of the Third Royal Highness, and their intentions are self-evident.


    It seems that although the Third Royal Highness has completed the task assigned by the Emperor, he has hidden many ulterior motives.


    "Since the Third Royal Highness promised to recommend for Sister Li, Murong won''t bother anymore." Murong opened her mouth as if she wanted to say something, but swallowed her words.


    Seeing this, Li Youwei cooperatively asked, "Princess, as I am new to the capital city, I am not familiar with many things here. I hope the Princess can give me some guidance."


    "There are indeed a few things I want to tell Sister Li."


    Murong thought for a moment and sincerely said, "The forces in the capital city are complicated. Although everyone is serving the court, there are also many people with hidden agendas. When Sister Li is looking for cooperation candidates, it''s better to be cautious."


    "Can the Princess give me some specific instructions?" Li Youwei asked in a serious tone.


    "Walls have ears, and there are some things that I can''t say too clearly."


    Murong glanced at the lively second floor and said, "Sister Li should be careful. Of course, if Sister Li can trust them, it wouldn''t hurt to consider the Zhangsun Family more when cooperating. That is my mother''s family, and I can say a few words for Sister Li."


    Li Youwei nodded lightly after hearing Ninth Princess''s words and said, "I will remember the Princess''s advice."


    "Alright, let''s not talk about these troublesome matters. Can Sister Li tell me something about Yuzhou City? I have never been out of the capital city and I am curious about the outside world."


    Having achieved her goal, Murong deliberately changed the topic and started chatting casually with the woman in front of her, trying to dispel her guard as much as possible.


    Indeed, when Li Youwei no longer talked about cooperation, the nervousness on her face diminished, and her tone also relaxed. She said, "Princess, what would you like to know?"


    "Tell me about the Li Residence. In the capital city, the Li Residence has become a legend, especially those rare things invented by the Li Residence, such as perfume, crystal, and soap. I have never heard of them before." Murong said.


    Li Youwei smiled and said, "Princess, you are referring to those things. They were learned by an old gentleman from our family when he traveled overseas in the past. The Li Family was fortunate to receive the old gentleman''s help, which enabled us to produce these things."


    "Oh?"


    Murong heard this and showed a surprised expression, saying, "Why did I hear that these things were invented by the Third Young Master of the Li Residence? Did I remember it wrong?""It''s all just rumors and nonsense."


    Li Youwei smiled and said, "My Li Family has started a business selling perfumes and soaps. My younger brother is not even seven years old, how could he invent these things?"


    "That''s true."


    Murong nodded, but he didn''t fully believe it. Rumors are sometimes not groundless, and the Third Young Master of the Li Family has too many legendary stories. Whether they are rumors or true, they are worth the attention of the royal family.


    Li Youwei looked at the expression of the Ninth Princess in front of her and smiled faintly, not saying much.


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    She knew the purpose of the Ninth Princess inviting her here today, but she couldn''t avoid contact with the royal family when she came to the capital city. Seeing the Ninth Princess and the reactions of others would be a good opportunity.


    Speaking of which, the Ninth Princess is indeed as rumored, incredibly beautiful. She can definitely be called the most beautiful woman in Great Shang. If she could marry into the Li Residence as the younger brother''s wife, that would be even better.


    With this in mind, a smile appeared on Li Youwei''s lips, and her gaze towards the young girl in front of her became kinder.


    However, when Murong saw the sudden kind look in the woman''s eyes, he couldn''t help but tremble subconsciously, feeling an indescribable sensation in his heart.


    While Li Youwei was once again looking for a wife for her younger brother, Li Ziye, who was dealing with bandits all over the mountains, suddenly felt a chill down his spine.


    "They caught up?"


    Li Ziye quickly looked back and found no sign of the bandits, relieved.


    No one.


    That''s good, that''s good.


    These bandits are becoming more and more useless, they can''t even catch up.


    Behind him, outside a mile of mountain road, more than a dozen bandits were sitting on the ground, almost unable to stand up due to exhaustion.


    "Boss, how did this kid become so powerful? Even when seven or eight of us ambushed him, we couldn''t stop him," one of the bandits spoke, puzzled.


    "That kid probably unlocked the Divine Hidden Technique and has become a warrior now."


    The bandit leader''s face darkened. "Anyway, when you encounter him, you must not be alone. It''s best to have ten or twenty people together, otherwise, you won''t be able to stop him."


    "Alright!" the bandits nodded in agreement.


    "Hey, are you still chasing or not!"


    At this moment, Li Ziye, who had already disappeared without a trace, suddenly turned back and stood on a rock, shouting loudly.


    "Kid, if I catch you, I''ll definitely skin you alive!"


    The bandit leader''s face turned red with anger upon hearing the provocation, shouting angrily.


    "You big guy, I''ve heard that line so many times, are you chasing or not? If you''re not, I''ll leave."


    On the rock, Li Ziye stood with his hands on his hips, shouting like a fishwife.


    "Brothers, chase after him!"


    The bandit leader was furious and gave the order for his men to continue chasing.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye laughed and turned around to run again.


    It''s impossible for one person to fight against a group, but if someone is left alone, or three to five people are left alone, he can consider it.


    As the sun set, fewer and fewer people could catch up with Li Ziye behind him. By the time it was almost sunset, only Li Ziye and the bandit leader were still able to run.


    "Kid... do you dare to stop and fight me?"


    Near the exit of the forest, the bandit leader bent over, gasping for breath, and said.


    Li Ziye stopped his footsteps upon hearing this, turned around, and looked at the bandit leader behind him. "Fighting is not a problem, but if I win, you have to answer three questions for me."


    "What questions?"


    The bandit leader''s expression darkened.


    "You have to agree first."


    Li Ziye smiled.


    "Fine, I agree, but you have to win against me with your skills!"


    Before the words fell, the bandit leader''s eyes turned cold, and he suddenly rushed forward.


    Li Ziye remained calm, his footsteps turned, and his figure swiftly moved several zhang away.


    The Divine Hidden Technique, the number one technique in the world, not only has unparalleled swordsmanship, but also the number one body technique.


    In just one day and one night, Li Ziye had only learned five steps, barely scratching the surface. However, it was enough to deal with the bandit leader in front of him.


    After retreating two steps, Li Ziye stepped back in mid-air, kicked on the trunk of a tree, and returned to the air. The Frost in his hand was unsheathed.


    "Swish!"


    With a sword as graceful as frost, it seemed like a simple strike, but it accurately pierced the bandit leader''s heart.


    In a moment of crisis, the bandit leader''s body reacted instinctively, rolling on the ground.


    "Swish!"The grating sound of fabric tearing rang out, and a deep wound that revealed the bone appeared on the chest of the bandit leader. Blood splattered, staining his clothes red.


    "You, you''ve lost!"


    On the ground, the bandit leader was about to get up when suddenly, his vision blurred. A chilling long sword appeared in front of his throat.


    "This, this can''t be!"


    The bandit leader looked at the sword at his throat, exclaiming in shock.


    "What, can''t accept the loss after a bet?"


    Li Ziye swung the sword in his hand, saying, "Do you want me to poke a few more holes in you before you admit defeat?"


    "I, I admit defeat!"


    The bandit leader''s face darkened, saying, "Speak, what do you want to know?"


    "Very simple."


    Li Ziye grinned, his smile radiant, "Where did you get that blazing iron essence of yours?"

 Chapter 18 – Little Ziye, youve grown up

    As the sun set and the scorching sun was about to fall.


    In front of the forest, the bandit leader shuddered violently upon hearing Li Ziye''s question.


    He had actually recognized that the stone was a piece of Blazing Iron Essence.


    "How did you recognize it?"


    The bandit leader looked up at the young man in front of him and asked in a deep voice.


    "Now it''s my turn to ask you questions."


    Li Ziye waved the sword in his hand and said, "You''d better cooperate, my patience is limited."


    "The Yin Family!"


    The bandit leader clenched his fist and said, "I stole the Blazing Iron Essence from the Yin Family."


    "The Yin Family?"


    Li Ziye frowned, then seemed to remember something and exclaimed, "Are you talking about the Yin Family from the Capital City, the one that owns the Yin Family Money House?"


    He remembered that among the three choices given to him by the Third Prince, the Yin Family was one of them.


    "Hmm."


    The bandit leader responded with a gloomy face, then fell silent, not saying another word.


    "With the power of the Yin Family, ordinary people couldn''t possibly steal such a treasure. What is your relationship with the Yin Family?" Li Ziye asked, frowning.


    "Is this your second question?" The bandit leader asked in a deep voice.


    "I suppose so." Li Ziye replied.


    The bandit leader took a deep breath and said, "The Yin Family is my enemy. They killed my mother."


    "Your answer is as good as saying nothing."


    Li Ziye said coldly, "Be more specific."


    The bandit leader''s face turned angry, and he was about to argue, but when he saw the sword in front of him, he had to swallow his words. He clenched his fists and said, "My mother was a maid in the Yin Family''s main house. It was this woman who killed my mother."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye quickly understood the reason and asked, "Are you the illegitimate child of the Yin Family?"


    Upon hearing the words "illegitimate child", the bandit leader''s eyes widened in anger, "What''s wrong with being an illegitimate child? Don''t illegitimate children deserve to live?"


    "There''s no such thing as ''should'' or ''shouldn''t'' in this world."


    Li Ziye said indifferently, "As long as you have the ability, no one can look down on you. However, if you choose to become a bandit, you can''t blame others for looking down on you."


    "If I could get out, who would want to hide in these mountains, living a life of stealing and hiding."


    The bandit leader was furious, "That bitch from the Yin Family has been sending people to look for me. If she knew I was still alive, she would never let it go."


    "Hmm, makes sense."


    Li Ziye stroked his chin and said, "Perhaps, I can help you."


    "You can help me?"


    The bandit leader was shocked, his face showing disbelief, "How can you help me, and why would you want to help me."


    "Don''t worry about how I can help you. Just know that I can. As for why, there''s no reason. I just feel like it."


    Li Ziye grinned, "You can''t buy my happiness with a thousand gold. I can help you evade the eyes and pursuit of the Yin Family''s main wife. However, in return, you have to serve me for ten years!"


    "Ten years?"


    The bandit leader''s face turned angry, "Absolutely not."


    "Seven years!"


    Li Ziye decided to compromise a bit.


    The bandit leader was furious and refused to respond.


    "Five years, no less."


    Li Ziye held up five fingers, "Helping you evade pursuit comes at a cost. You come from the Yin Family, you should understand that no one would do business without a return."


    "No more than three years!"


    The bandit leader said in a deep voice.


    "Deal!"


    Li Ziye put away his sword and extended a friendly hand to the man in front of him.


    The bandit leader gritted his teeth and also extended his hand.


    Why did he feel like he had been tricked?


    Li Ziye pulled up the man in front of him and said, "I still don''t know your name."


    "Yin Kuang!" The bandit leader replied.


    "Silver Mine? Impressive, impressive."


    Li Ziye said with a face full of admiration.


    Upon hearing this, Yin Kuang''s face immediately darkened again, wishing he could slap the man in front of him to death.


    "Just kidding."


    Seeing the big man in front of him about to explode, Li Ziye quickly changed the subject, "One more question, since the Yin Family has the Blazing Iron Essence, do you know where I can find something of the same level as the Blazing Iron Essence, but of extreme Yin nature?"


    Yin Kuang frowned, thought for a moment, and said, "I haven''t heard of it, but there''s a fragmentary scroll in the Yin Family''s treasure vault called ''Heavenly Craftsmanship''. It records many rare and strange things in the world. Perhaps, you can find the answer there."


    "''Heavenly Craftsmanship''?"


    Li Ziye''s eyes narrowed slightly. It seemed like he was being forced to make a trip to the Capital City.


    To be honest, he really didn''t want to go there.


    That was the power center of the Great Shang, where countless people were hoping for his arrival as the legitimate son of the Li Family.


    Having seen enough power struggles in his previous life, he knew very well that the Li Family was now a thorn in the side of the royal family. If they could use it, it would be fine. If not, they would definitely want to get rid of it.


    His identity as the legitimate son of the Li Family was like a bright light bulb, attracting the attention of many people. It would be difficult to keep a low profile. Once he went to the Capital City of the Great Shang, it would not be easy to return.


    "I''ve said everything I should say, can I go now?" Yin Kuang looked at the man in front of him and asked in a deep voice.


    "Hmm... you can. Go back first, I''ll arrange it as soon as possible. Soon, you''ll be able to move freely in the Great Shang Dynasty." Li Ziye grinned.


    "I hope what you said is true."


    Yin Kuang snorted coldly, then turned and left.


    Li Ziye also waved his hand and walked towards the outside of the forest.


    As the sun set, outside Yuzhou City, a horse galloped wildly, leaving a trail of dust behind.


    Finally, just before the city gate was about to close, Li Ziye made it back.


    At the Li Residence, the first thing Li Ziye did after returning was to write a letter to Li Qingzhi.


    The matter of Yin Kuang needed to be handled properly. If he went to the Capital City of the Great Shang in the future, this man would be of great use to him.


    He didn''t trust anyone else with this, so he had to ask his Second Brother for help.


    Although his relationship with his Second Brother was not very good, he was the person he trusted the most.


    After writing the letter, a pigeon quickly flew out of the backyard of the Li Residence, heading east.


    Two days later, in the Capital City of the Great Shang, at the Shihua Garden by the Xiang River, a woman in red walked up to the third floor and handed the secret letter in her hand to the man in the room.


    "Tower Master, a secret message from Yuzhou City," a woman in red spoke.


    Inside the room, a young man dressed in a silver-grey wide robe took the letter. Upon opening it and seeing the handwriting inside, his expression immediately turned serious.


    A letter from his third brother.


    Under the flickering candlelight, Li Qingzhi read the contents of the letter, his eyes slightly squinting.


    After reading the letter, Li Qingzhi burned it over the candle flame and said, "Hong Zhu."


    "Tower Master!" The woman in red respectfully saluted.


    "You will return to Yuzhou City and follow the orders of the Third Young Master."


    After speaking, Li Qingzhi looked at a desk not far away, walked over, picked up a wooden box about three feet long, and said, "Give him this Pure Jun Sword as well."


    "Yes, Tower Master!"


    The woman in red respectfully took the order, stepped forward to take the sword box, and then turned and left.


    At dawn, outside the west gate of the Capital of Shang, Hong Zhu rode a fast horse, galloping thousands of miles towards Yuzhou City.


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, Li Ziye had not left for five consecutive days, practicing swordsmanship in the residence.


    Of course, the main reason was that Yin Kuang was now under his control, and he felt embarrassed to trouble his own people.


    On the sixth day, at dawn, outside the east gate of Yuzhou City, a fast horse galloped in. On the horseback, a woman in red, with a beautiful face and a heroic aura.


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    Soon, at the Li Residence, Hong Zhu arrived.


    Upon hearing the news, Li Ziye immediately walked out of the backyard to greet her.


    "Sister Hong Zhu."


    Seeing the visitor, Li Ziye immediately displayed his sweet-talking and shameless advantages, smiling and saying, "You must have had a hard journey."


    "Third Young Master."


    Hong Zhu saluted and said softly, "The Tower Master sent me here to follow the orders of the Third Young Master."


    "Calling it ''orders'' is too formal."


    Li Ziye smiled innocently, "I invited Sister Hong Zhu here to ask for a small favor."


    "Whatever the Third Young Master commands, I will do my best to assist."


    After speaking, Hong Zhu took a sword box about three feet long from her back and handed it over, saying, "This is the sword the Tower Master asked me to give to the Third Young Master."


    "A sword?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye''s eyes lit up with surprise. Anything sent by his second brother would certainly not be ordinary.


    The broken iron he got from Yin Kuang couldn''t be forged into a sword for a while, and he was worrying about how to get a suitable sword. He couldn''t possibly steal Old Qin''s Frost Sword, could he?


    Of course, mainly because he didn''t dare.


    Li Ziye took the sword box, opened it, and inside, a mysterious blue ancient sword lay quietly. The sword''s edge was like autumn water, its sharpness intimidating.


    What a good... sword.


    "Pure Jun."


    By the lake in the backyard, Qin E''nuo saw the sword in Li Ziye''s hand not far away, and a look of surprise appeared on her beautiful face.


    The Li Family really had far-reaching connections.


    The Pure Jun Sword was forged by a master craftsman a hundred years ago, and it was incredibly sharp. After the craftsman''s death, the whereabouts of the Pure Jun Sword were unknown.


    The fact that the Li Family could find this sword showed how terrifying their intelligence capabilities were.


    "What a waste of a good sword."


    Slovenly Zhang said unhappily from the side.


    Such a famous sword was wasted on that kid.


    "But, that girl is not bad."


    Slovenly Zhang added, obviously referring to Hong Zhu in front of Li Ziye.


    "A master of poison."


    Qin E''nuo said calmly. The earrings, hairpins, and even the bracelets on the young woman in red reflected a strange blue light, obviously steeped in deadly poison.


    "Where does the Li Family find all these freaks? Such an unusual little girl."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed, "Look at that kid''s flattering attitude, he obviously knows how powerful this girl is. I guarantee, he''s up to no good."


    "Hmm."


    Qin E''nuo nodded indifferently. She knew her disciple''s character well. When asking for help, he had no bottom line.


    "Sister Hong Zhu, let''s go to the room and talk in detail."


    Li Ziye led the way, his face not turning red or his heart beating faster as he passed by the lake, pretending not to see the strange looks from the two Immortal Swordsmen.


    In the room, after Hong Zhu entered, Li Ziye closed the door.


    Hong Zhu was not afraid. Seeing him close the door, a playful smile appeared on her beautiful face.


    She knew the Third Young Master''s character.


    To put it bluntly, he had the heart of a thief, but not the guts.


    When they were young, she often bullied this little master of the Li Family.


    But later, when she understood the order of seniority, she became a bit more restrained in public.


    "Little Ziye, you''ve grown up."


    Inside the room, Hong Zhu looked at the young man''s legs and said meaningfully.


    Li Ziye''s smile froze, and he subconsciously tightened his legs.


    A female... hooligan! S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 19 – Does it feel good?

    "Let sister check if you have really grown up."


    In the room, seeing the awkward appearance of the young master in front of her, Hong Zhu became bolder and took a step forward, reaching out to undress him.


    "This...isn''t good."


    Li Ziye took two steps back, looking hesitant.


    "What''s wrong? I''ve seen it when we were young."


    Hong Zhu''s smile became more charming as she spoke.


    "I was young back then, I didn''t understand."


    Li Ziye''s face showed a shy expression as he spoke.


    "And now? Are you grown up now?"


    Hong Zhu reached out and touched his chest, sliding her hand downwards.


    "Now...?"


    Li Ziye''s body trembled and he moved back again.


    However, there was a bed behind him.


    "Ouch."


    Li Ziye couldn''t stand steady and fell backwards, instinctively grabbing the woman in front of him.


    "Ah!"


    Hong Zhu exclaimed and fell down as well.


    And so, their bodies stacked on top of each other.


    In such close proximity, with the softness and fragrance, a triumphant smile appeared on Li Ziye''s lips.


    "Does it feel good?"


    Hong Zhu spoke, her voice soft.


    "It feels good."


    Li Ziye replied, suddenly feeling something was wrong. He subconsciously grabbed with his hands and felt a soft touch.


    Damn it!


    Li Ziye was surprised and cold sweat immediately flowed down his forehead.


    "Ah!"


    In the next moment, a miserable cry echoed in the room, scaring the servants of the Li Residence outside into silence.


    What happened to the young master?


    Fairy Qin was still here!


    By the lake, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang both smiled, clearly feeling satisfied.


    Serves him right!


    "Hong...Hong Zhu, it wasn''t intentional."


    In the room, Li Ziye curled up on the ground, unable to straighten his waist due to the pain, and spoke intermittently.


    "I did it intentionally."


    Hong Zhu clenched her slender right hand, a dangerous smile flashing in her eyes, and said, "Little Ziye, you have really grown up."


    Li Ziye saw her tightly clenched right hand, and his lower body trembled again. He smiled apologetically, "Hong Zhu, let''s talk about business."


    "Now you want to talk about business? Tell me, what do you need?"


    Hong Zhu came to the table and sat down, asking, "I rushed for three days and nights continuously to not delay your matters. Several horses even died."


    "You''ve worked hard, Hong Zhu."


    Li Ziye brought a chair in front of the woman and poured a cup of tea, offering it to her in an attempt to please her.


    Hong Zhu took the teacup, took a sip, and felt her anger dissipate a bit.


    Could she still kill him? Of course not, he was a young master after all. People are different, and it''s infuriating.


    "Hong Zhu, I have a illegitimate child of the Yincheng Yin family here."


    Li Ziye spoke softly, "Because he was being chased by the main wife of the Yin family, he had to become a bandit outside Yuzhou City. Recently, I just managed to subdue him."


    "The illegitimate child of the Yin family?"


    Hong Zhu was surprised and asked, "What do you want him for?"


    "Hmm."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "Hong Zhu, you are skilled in the art of disguise. Can you help him change his appearance and send him to the capital city of Great Shang?"


    "Can we trust this person?" Hong Zhu frowned.


    "Hong Zhu, you have never asked this question before." Li Ziye said.


    "It''s because you, young master, have a noble identity. I have to be careful in everything." Hong Zhu said irritably, "Alright, I will add some extra ingredients when disguising him, and I will prepare the antidote for you as soon as possible."


    "I knew Hong Zhu would always be the best to me. Hug." Li Ziye''s face showed a happy expression as he reached out his hands, wanting to hug her.


    "Stop it!"


    Hong Zhu extended a finger and pressed it against his forehead, blocking the little guy in front of her who wanted to take advantage.


    He has really grown up, not only has a thief''s heart, but also a thief''s courage.


    He should be more careful in the future!


    "Go and bring the person here." Hong Zhu said.


    "Okay!"


    Li Ziye replied and immediately walked out of the room.


    In the backyard, by the lake, Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang looked at Li Ziye walking out with a strange expression.


    "Going out for a while."


    Li Ziye smiled awkwardly and quickly left.


    That scream just now was really misleading.


    "Sneaky, what is this kid up to?" Slovenly Zhang curiously asked.


    "I don''t know."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head and said lightly, "But it seems to be related to the leader of the bandits."


    Sure enough, at sunset, Li Ziye secretly brought in a man wearing a bamboo hat into the residence.


    Qin E''nuo took a glance at the man under the hat and recognized his identity.


    It''s really him.


    In the room, when Li Ziye brought in Yin Kuang, Hong Zhu was organizing various bottles and jars in front of the dressing table, colorful and vibrant.


    "Hong Zhu, I leave it to you." Li Ziye said.


    "Okay."


    Hong Zhu nodded and said lightly, "You can go and attend to your own matters."


    Li Ziye gave Yin Kuang a look of good luck and then left the room.


    Yin Kuang sensed the gloating meaning in his eyes and couldn''t help but shiver.


    By the lake, after Li Ziye left the room, he walked straight over.


    "Kid, not bad. You managed to subdue the leader of the bandits." Slovenly Zhang said."A small matter." Li Ziye grinned.


    "What did you find out?" Qin E''nuo asked from the side.


    "His name is Yin Kuang, a man from the Yin Family Money House in the Capital City. The Blazing Iron Essence was stolen by him from the Yin Family''s treasury."


    Li Ziye explained truthfully, "However, he doesn''t know where in the world to find an object of extreme yin that is of the same grade as the Blazing Iron Essence. He only mentioned that the Yin Family has a book called ''Essential Techniques of Heavenly Craftsmanship'', which records information about many rare and exotic treasures. Perhaps we can find some clues from it."


    "Essential Techniques of Heavenly Craftsmanship?"


    Upon hearing this, Slovenly Zhang showed surprise, "This fragment of a book is actually in the Yin Family?"


    "You know about this?"


    This time, it was Li Ziye''s turn to be surprised. How did this old fellow know everything?


    "I''ve heard of it."


    Slovenly Zhang nodded, "It is said that the person who wrote this book lived in the same era as the ancestors of the Great Shang. This person traveled through the Nine Provinces and wrote this book based on his own observations and experiences. It records many rare and exotic treasures and strange events that most people have never heard of."


    "In that case, we must find a way to get this book."


    A fiery light flashed in Li Ziye''s eyes. If he could find an object of extreme yin that was of the same grade as the Blazing Iron Essence, he could have someone forge a sword for him.


    "The Yin Family in the Capital City is not an easy target. Getting something from the Yin Family is not much easier than entering the Imperial Academy." Slovenly Zhang reminded.


    "I know."


    Li Ziye came back to his senses and smiled, "That''s why I want to take Yin Kuang under my control. After all, he is a member of the Yin Family and is very familiar with them."


    "Does that woman know the art of disguise?"


    Qin E''nuo seemed to have guessed something and asked from the side.


    Li Ziye looked surprised, then nodded, "Fairy Master is indeed the smartest. Sister Hong Zhu is indeed skilled in the art of disguise. I plan to change Yin Kuang''s appearance and send him into the Capital of Shang. When the time is right, I will send him into the Yin Family."


    "Admirable!"


    Slovenly Zhang gave a thumbs up, "You little rascal, you''re indeed full of tricks."


    "Thank you for the compliment."


    Li Ziye grinned.


    "Ah!"


    Just then, a painful cry came from the room behind them. It was particularly piercing in the quiet night.


    Slovenly Zhang was taken aback, "Isn''t it just a disguise? Why is there so much noise?"


    Find the original at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    Li Ziye touched his nose and replied somewhat embarrassedly, "I was worried that he would be recognized, so I used a bit of a drastic method to make his appearance change more thoroughly."


    Upon hearing this, Slovenly Zhang looked puzzled, "Can he change back?"


    "Well... it depends on luck." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Ziye laughed awkwardly.


    Slovenly Zhang chuckled, so he couldn''t change back?


    Indeed, cooperating with this kid meant there was always a chance of being sold out. He would have to be more careful in the future.


    About half an hour later, the door of the room opened, and Hong Zhu, dressed in red, stepped out.


    Upon seeing this, Li Ziye excitedly asked, "Sister Hong Zhu, did you succeed?"


    "I have not failed your trust."


    Seeing a stranger in front of her, Hong Zhu resumed her respectful attitude and bowed.


    "Sister Hong Zhu, Fairy Master and Senior Sword Enthusiast are trustworthy people, you don''t need to pretend."


    Li Ziye said with a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Hong Zhu gave him a white look, "Why didn''t you say so earlier? That man fainted from the pain. It will probably take three or four hours for him to wake up."


    "Little girl, who is your master?" Slovenly Zhang suddenly asked.


    Hong Zhu''s eyes narrowed like crescent moons, and a bright smile appeared on her face, "Self-taught."


    "Heh."


    Slovenly Zhang gave a faint smile and didn''t ask any more questions.


    Self-taught, what a joke.


    In this world, there weren''t many people who were proficient in poison and disguise, and most of them were from Miaojiang. However, this little girl''s behavior and dress didn''t seem like she was from Miaojiang, which was quite strange.


    "Old Zhang, don''t ask anymore. Even I can''t get it out of her, let alone you." Li Ziye said.


    "I won''t ask anymore, you guys chat. I, an old man, am going to sleep."


    Slovenly Zhang waved his hand casually, then got up, dusted off his clothes, and staggered towards his room.


    "Be more restrained, and focus more on sword practice."


    Qin E''nuo reminded him from the side, then turned and left.


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye was taken aback, but quickly recovered and cried out in a wronged tone, "Fairy Master, you misunderstood, I..."


    "I what I."


    Hong Zhu interrupted him impatiently, "What, am I not good enough for you, that you''re so eager to explain?"


    "No, no."


    Li Ziye quickly shook his head. This was a life-threatening question, and the key was that he really hadn''t done anything.


    "Little Ziye, are you planning to go to the Capital City?"


    Hong Zhu didn''t make things too difficult for the young man beside her, and changed the subject.


    Over the years, she had followed the Tower Master around, and she could somewhat see the arrangements of the Li Family.


    Although the Li Family didn''t want to get too involved with the forces in the Capital City, they had already started to place their own informants in the city.


    "I don''t want to."


    Li Ziye sighed lightly, "But, I might have to."

 Chapter 20 – Confucian Scholar, Kong Qiu

    The night is enchanting, and the people are even more enchanting.


    By the lake, a woman in a red dress named Hongyi sits quietly, her flawless profile captivating.


    Li Ziye sits beside Hongyi, smelling the refreshing fragrance, feeling a bit dazed.


    Hongyi, you''ve grown up too.


    The first time they met when they were young, on the streets of Yuzhou City, Hongyi was wearing tattered clothes with holes in her shoes, looking pitiful.


    He brought Hongyi back to the Li Residence. At that time, he was just seven years old, and Hongyi was only ten.


    Unexpectedly, ten years have passed in the blink of an eye.


    "Hongyi, have you ever thought about going home?"


    Li Ziye asked softly. He had asked about Hongyi''s background before, but she didn''t want to talk about it, so he didn''t ask again.


    "I have no home." Hongyi fell silent and then spoke after a moment.


    "As long as Hongyi is willing, the Li Residence will always be Hongyi''s home." Li Ziye said gently.


    Hongyi''s expression froze for a moment, then a brilliant smile appeared on her beautiful face. She said, "Little Ziye, you''ve grown up. You know how to say sweet words to deceive girls now."


    Li Ziye also smiled and said, "So you''ve noticed, Hongyi."


    "Alright, it''s getting late. You should go back to your room and rest."


    Hongyi stood up, brushed her long hair behind her ears, and said softly, "Tomorrow morning, I will take that Yin Kuang back to the Capital City."


    "Why the rush?" Li Ziye was surprised and asked.


    "It''s the right time for your Second Brother to use people. Our foundation in the Capital City is still too weak. If we want to achieve something, we must quickly arrange manpower."


    Hongyi said, then added impatiently, "All of this is to pave the way for you in the future. You should strive harder, cultivate well. The Capital City is treacherous. If anything happens, even your Second Brother and I may not be able to protect you."


    "Don''t worry, Hongyi."


    Li Ziye nodded vigorously and said, "I will make the Li Residence produce a Sword Immortal who will shake the world."


    "You have big ambitions."


    Hongyi laughed and said without saying much. She turned and went back to her room.


    By the lake, Li Ziye watched her figure for a long time, then picked up the sword beside him and continued practicing.


    Under the moonlight, the sword glowed like frost. Li Ziye flew out again and again, falling to the ground and then getting up again.


    The first move of the Flying Immortal Art, with only nine steps, seemed simple but was extremely difficult to practice.


    Li Ziye practiced day and night for many days, but he couldn''t take that final step.


    He didn''t know how long he had been practicing. The moon was setting in the sky, and the night was getting deeper.


    "Clang!"


    The sword pierced into the ground, and Li Ziye knelt down, gasping for breath. Even in this cold autumn, his face was covered in sweat.


    He couldn''t believe it. He couldn''t succeed in this final step!


    The persistence of a young heart refused to admit defeat. Li Ziye struggled to get up and started practicing again.


    As the night grew darker, a white light appeared in the east, indicating that dawn was approaching.


    In a nearby room, Hongyi walked out as the door opened.


    In the room next to Hongyi''s, a stranger walked out, completely different in appearance and figure from before.


    At this moment, Li Ziye''s figure flashed in the backyard, like a startled swan, like thunder. He covered a distance of eight steps in an instant.


    The final step, in mid-air, Li Ziye stepped on nothingness, his aura sinking. A one-inch deep footprint appeared on the ground, and in an instant, the sword was unsheathed, connecting heaven and earth.


    "Boom!"


    In front of him, the ancient sword swept across, and the artificial mountain shattered with a loud noise. The broken stones flew and fell like rain.


    "Hoo! Hoo!"


    After the sword strike, Li Ziye landed on the ground, exhausted, gasping for breath, almost unable to stand.


    Hongyi approached, supported him, and said softly, "Although practicing the sword is important, don''t push yourself too hard."


    "Squeak!"


    On the other side, the door opened, and Qin E''nuo and Slovenly Zhang walked out of their rooms at the same time, hearing the commotion outside.


    Success?


    Qin E''nuo looked at the scattered stones on the ground in front of her, showing surprise on her face.


    "Not bad."


    Slovenly Zhang grinned, revealing a mouthful of big teeth.


    As Li Ziye stood up straight under their gaze, he looked at the woman beside him, exhausted, and asked, "Is Hongyi leaving?"


    "Yes." Hongyi nodded.


    Li Ziye looked at the unfamiliar man not far away, a strange expression flashed across his face, and he said, "When we arrive in the Capital City, follow Hongyi''s arrangements, understand?"


    "I know."


    Yin Kuang replied in a deep voice.


    "Hongyi, let me see you off."


    After saying that, Li Ziye and the two others walked towards the front yard.


    In front of the residence, Hongyi and Yin Kuang got on the carriage. Li Ziye watched the carriage go far away, silent for a long time, then turned and returned to the residence.


    In the backyard, Qin E''nuo was already waiting. Seeing him return, she looked at Slovenly Zhang beside her and said, "Sword Enthusiast, it''s your turn to teach the second move."


    "Alright."


    Slovenly Zhang nodded and said, "Kid, watch closely!"


    As he spoke, Slovenly Zhang swung his sword, wine entered his mouth, and his body moved like a flying dragon.


    Unpredictable footwork, each step''s direction was difficult to predict. After eighteen steps, the sword intent reached its peak. Slovenly Zhang held the sword with both hands, and with one strike, he shattered the sky.


    Boom!


    A thunderous vibration resounded, and in front, a towering tree collapsed, splitting into two halves, shocking everyone.


    Li Ziye was so shocked by this astonishing sword strike that he couldn''t speak.


    "You''re getting old."


    Slovenly Zhang waved his hand and sheathed his sword, taking another sip of wine. He sighed, "If I were a few years younger, this old man could have split the Li Residence in half with a single sword strike, demonstrating even more shock and awe."


    "Let''s forget about that."


    Li Ziye snapped back to his senses and looked at the mess in the courtyard, bitterly smiling. "You''re already formidable enough."


    "Keep practicing."


    Slovenly Zhang walked back to the lakeside with his sword, patting Li Ziye''s shoulder. "The Flying Immortal Art has nine forms, and the difficulty will increase exponentially, especially the last three moves. Even I and Qin E''nuo can''t teach you. I hope to see you perform the awe-inspiring Three Supreme Moves of the Flying Immortal Art before I die."


    "I''ll do my best."


    Li Ziye dryly laughed.


    "Go practice your sword."


    Qin E''nuo said from the side.


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye lightly responded and immediately went to practice with his sword.


    "Sword Enthusiast, this won''t work."


    Qin E''nuo spoke by the lakeside, her voice soft. "It''s too slow. The first two forms are manageable, but the third form has twenty-seven steps, and the fourth form has thirty-six steps. At his current speed, who knows how many years it will take."


    Slovenly Zhang fell silent for a while before sighing. "He''s already working hard enough, but he has only opened one meridian so far. Whether it''s cultivation speed or control over his body, it''s limited."


    "I''m going to the capital city."


    Qin E''nuo said in a deep voice. "I''ll leave this place to you."


    Slovenly Zhang was surprised by her words and asked, "Are you really going to the Imperial Academy?"


    "I have to give it a try."


    Qin E''nuo said in a firm tone. "So far, we only know the whereabouts of this one Fo-Ti Root. We have no choice."


    "When are you planning to leave?" Slovenly Zhang sighed lightly.


    "Today." Qin E''nuo answered.


    Slovenly Zhang frowned but didn''t try to persuade her any further. He nodded and said, "I''ll take care of things here at the Li Residence."


    "Thank you."


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    Qin E''nuo said and reached out to draw the Frost Sword by her side. Then, she walked towards the back courtyard.


    In the distance, Li Ziye, who was still struggling with the first three steps of the second form, got up from the ground in a sorry state. He saw Qin E''nuo leaving and asked in confusion, "Where is Old Qin going?"


    "To the capital city." Slovenly Zhang replied casually.


    "The capital city?"


    Li Ziye was surprised and asked, "Why is she going to the capital city?"


    "To get medicine for you."


    Slovenly Zhang answered indifferently. "Stop wasting time and continue practicing your sword."


    Li Ziye looked in the direction Qin E''nuo had left, then withdrew his attention and continued practicing his sword.


    Why didn''t Old Qin say goodbye to him before leaving?


    Outside Yuzhou City, Hong Zhu and Yin Kuang''s carriage had just left the city. A graceful figure swiftly approached from behind, holding an ancient sword and moving like a fairy. After a few breaths, she surpassed the carriage and continued towards the distance.


    Two days later, in the capital city of Great Shang.


    Qin E''nuo entered the city with her sword.


    In the Imperial Academy, in a simple small courtyard, flowers and plants thrived. The courtyard was filled with green vegetables, and chickens and ducks came to peck at insects from time to time, creating a lively scene.


    In the courtyard, an old man dressed in a plain Confucian robe scooped up a ladle of water and carefully watered the vegetables in the garden.


    The old man looked really old, with wrinkles all over his face, and even his eyes seemed cloudy.


    However, despite this, no one dared to underestimate the old man in front of them in the world.


    Confucian Scholar Kong Qiu, the belief of scholars in the world, even hailed as a sage living in the present age.


    No one knew how strong Kong Qiu was because he rarely left the capital city, and in this capital city of Great Shang, Kong Qiu had never been defeated.


    In this vast world, there were countless strong individuals, but only Kong Qiu dared to claim invincibility.


    So, as long as Kong Qiu didn''t leave the capital city, no one dared to challenge this sage living in the present age.


    "Now that you''re here, show yourself."


    Autumn leaves fell, and in the small courtyard, Kong Qiu watered the vegetables while speaking.


    "Qin E''nuo, pay respects to Confucian Scholar."


    Qin E''nuo appeared outside the courtyard and respectfully bowed.


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal has come in person. What brings you here?"


    Kong Qiu asked without even lifting his head.


    "I''ve come to ask for something."


    Qin E''nuo said solemnly, "The thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root in the Imperial Academy."


    "Seeking medicine."


    Kong Qiu calmly said, "Is it to save someone?"


    "No."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head and truthfully said, "It''s for opening meridians."


    "Isn''t the third son of the Li Family a martial arts prodigy?" Kong Qiu continued to ask.


    "No."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head again.


    "Heh."


    Kong Qiu chuckled and said, "I knew it. This old man shouldn''t have made a mistake."


    Qin E''nuo narrowed her eyes upon hearing this. It was said that Kong Qiu could calculate everything in the world, and now it seemed that it might not be an empty claim.


    "We do have the thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root in the Imperial Academy, and I can give it to the third son of the Li Family."


    At this point, Kong Qiu''s tone changed, and he continued, "But not now."


    "What do you mean, Confucian Scholar?" Qin E''nuo asked in a serious tone.


    "When the third son of the Li Family comes to the Imperial Academy, I will personally tell him." Kong Qiu replied."He probably won''t come to the Capital City." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Qin E''nuo frowned, she could somewhat guess Li Ziye''s thoughts. He was quite resistant to the Capital of Shang and didn''t want to come.


    "Whether he comes or not, it''s not something his will can decide."


    Kong Qiu put down the water scoop in his hand and said, "How about a bet? If the third son of the Li Family comes to the Capital City within ten days, the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal will lecture at my Imperial Academy for a year. If he doesn''t come, I will present a thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root with both hands."


    Upon hearing this, a glint flashed in Qin E''nuo''s eyes. After thinking for a moment, she nodded and said, "Alright, I''ll take the Confucian Scholar up on this bet."

 Chapter 21 – Li Youweis news

    "Plop!"


    In the backyard of the Li Residence, the sound of something falling into the water echoed, splashing water over a height of more than one zhang.


    "Oh, the eleventh time."


    By the lake, Slovenly Zhang sat there gloating, drinking and making sarcastic remarks.


    "Old Zhang, your mouth really annoys people."


    Li Ziye climbed ashore in a sorry state, panting and lying on the ground, saying, "Why hasn''t Old Qin come back yet? It''s been almost ten days."


    "Perhaps things didn''t go smoothly."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed softly and said, "The Imperial Academy is the territory of the Confucian Scholar. Under the heavens, who can take things away from the Confucian Scholar?"


    "I''ve heard you mention the Confucian Scholar more than once. Is he really powerful?"


    Li Ziye asked in confusion. Among the people he had encountered, the most powerful were this old man Zhang and his Fairy Master. He didn''t know much about other experts.


    "He is not just powerful."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed and said, "In the capital of Great Shang, the Confucian Scholar is the number one person."


    "So powerful?" Li Ziye exclaimed.


    "In the capital of Great Shang, the Confucian Scholar has never been defeated because it is the gathering place for scholars in the world. With the abundant fortune of the Confucian School, the Confucian Scholar, as the teacher of scholars in the world, can rely on the fortune of the Confucian School and no one can match him." Slovenly Zhang explained.


    "What is fortune?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "It''s something intangible."


    Slovenly Zhang thought for a moment and said, "It''s like the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. You can''t see or touch it, but it really exists. Only when you reach the realm of the Confucian Scholar can you harness the power of this fortune. Ordinary people cannot do it."


    "What about you and Old Qin?" Li Ziye asked in surprise.


    "We can''t do it."


    Slovenly Zhang said calmly, "Our realm is not high enough."


    "Aren''t you both Sword Immortals? Is there a higher realm than Immortal Sword?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "There is."


    Slovenly Zhang said calmly, "The human body has five viscera, corresponding to the five divine techniques of cultivators. Opening each divine technique will lead to a completely new realm. Therefore, the path of cultivation actually has five realms. Both Old Qin and I have opened the fifth divine technique, which is the realm of the fifth realm warrior. As for the title of Sword Immortal, it is just a common name."


    At this point, Slovenly Zhang paused and continued, "According to legend, there is a higher realm above the fifth realm. When a practitioner condenses the five vital energies and gathers the three flowers, they can ascend to the heavens and become an immortal on the day of great achievement."


    "Why does it sound so absurd?"


    Li Ziye exclaimed in shock, "Is it really possible to ascend and become an immortal?"


    "I have never seen it."


    Slovenly Zhang said indifferently, "Actually, I also think it''s absurd. For thousands of years, only the Confucian Scholar may have reached a realm beyond the fifth realm."


    "Then isn''t the Confucian Scholar invincible in the world?" Li Ziye exclaimed in disbelief.


    "At least in the capital of Great Shang, the Confucian Scholar is unbeatable."


    Slovenly Zhang nodded and said, "However, the Confucian Scholar rarely leaves the capital. No one knows the true extent of his realm, whether he has surpassed the fifth realm or how much he has surpassed it."


    "What about the first generation Sword God from a thousand years ago?" Li Ziye seemed to remember something and asked.


    "He should be at a similar realm as the Confucian Scholar."


    Slovenly Zhang thought for a moment and said, "It''s been too long, and no one can be sure."


    "I envy them."


    Li Ziye sighed and couldn''t help but worry, "The Confucian Scholar is so powerful, nothing will happen to Old Qin, right?"


    "That won''t happen."


    Slovenly Zhang shook his head and said, "The Confucian Scholar is not a bloodthirsty person. Besides, with Qin E''nuo''s strength, even if she can''t win, she should be able to escape."


    "Young Master."


    Just as they finished speaking, a servant boy hurriedly walked over from outside the backyard and said anxiously, "A letter has arrived from the capital."


    Li Ziye, upon hearing this, looked surprised and reached out to take the letter.


    However, soon, Li Ziye''s face darkened and a strong chill filled his eyes.


    "What happened?"


    Slovenly Zhang sensed that something was wrong. He had been in the Li Residence for so long and this was the first time he had seen this kid so angry.


    "Sister Youwei has encountered trouble."


    Li Ziye stood up and said in a deep voice, "Old Zhang, I need to go to the capital."


    What should have come finally came. They couldn''t hide from it.


    "Now?" Slovenly Zhang asked in surprise.


    "Now."


    Li Ziye nodded and turned to walk towards the study.


    His father should have received the news as well.


    In the study, Li Baiwan sat there with a gloomy expression. The smiling face he always had was now filled with killing intent.


    With a bang, Li Ziye pushed open the door and walked into the study, saying, "Old Li, I need to go to the capital."


    "Alright."


    Li Baiwan did not stop him and said in a deep voice, "Be careful in the capital. Remember, no matter what you do, the Li Family will always be your strongest backing."


    "Understood."


    Li Ziye replied and turned to leave.


    Half an hour later, in front of the Li Residence, the carriages gathered.


    Except for the carriage at the front with Li Ziye, each carriage behind was filled with potent medicine, gold, silver, and jewels.


    Of course, there was also a carriage filled with fine wine.


    It was prepared for Slovenly Zhang.


    "I''ve worked hard my whole life."


    Seeing the barrels of wine being loaded onto the carriage, Slovenly Zhang sighed unhappily.


    "Old Zhang, there is even more fine wine in the capital. As long as you want to drink, I will buy it all for you."


    In front of the carriage, Li Ziye promised solemnly.


    "It''s good that you have a conscience, kid."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed with emotion and then boarded the carriage.


    Li Ziye followed suit and the convoy set off, heading towards the outskirts of Yuzhou City.


    Li Baiwan stood in front of the Li Residence, watching the departing convoy with a complex and unusual expression.


    Both he and Ziye knew the dangers of the capital, but now, there was no way to avoid it.


    Others had already reached out to them. Did they have to do nothing and let others slap them in the face?


    The Li Family didn''t want trouble, but they weren''t afraid of it either.


    Even if it was the royal family!


    Half a day later, outside Yuzhou City, the convoy rumbled past. Li Ziye and Slovenly Zhang sat facing each other in the front carriage, neither of them saying a word.


    Slovenly Zhang continued to drink his own wine. He had come on this trip to protect this kid''s safety, and he didn''t care about anything else.Li Ziye closed his eyes, taking advantage of the free time during the journey to continue cultivating the mental method of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    It had been half a month since he opened his first Divine Hidden Technique, but he was still in the early stage of the first realm, far from breaking through to the middle stage.


    The carriage rumbled, and dust flew up from the rear of the convoy. Those who were now traveling with the team were all trusted members of the Li Residence. Even the most ordinary maid had a clear background, thoroughly investigated by the Li Residence in secret.


    Although Li Ziye had always resisted going to the Capital City, he was not entirely unprepared.


    He didn''t want to go, but he had been preparing for this day all along.


    The sky was getting dark as the sun set in the west.


    The convoy stopped and set up camp on the spot.


    In the team, a dozen men took turns patrolling, alert to any possible accidents.


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    The night in the wilderness was cold, and bonfires were lit in the camp for warmth.


    Li Ziye sat in front of the bonfire, watching the dancing flames, silent.


    Slovenly Zhang tossed over a jar of wine, saying, "Have a drink to ward off the cold."


    "Thank you."


    Li Ziye took the wine, took a swig, his left hand clenched tightly, a chill flashing in his eyes from time to time.


    "When you get to the Capital City, you need to be more careful. There are hidden dragons and crouching tigers there. It''s not like Yuzhou City where you can do as you please," Slovenly Zhang reminded.


    "I know."


    Li Ziye took another sip of wine, feeling the warm breath in his belly, and said, "The wine is good."


    "Monkey wine."


    Slovenly Zhang calmly said, "Drink it sparingly, I don''t have much."


    "I didn''t expect you to have such a good thing hidden."


    Li Ziye took another gulp, wiped his mouth, and tossed the remaining wine back, saying, "I''m done drinking, I need to practice my sword later."


    "Actually, you don''t need to be in such a hurry."


    Slovenly Zhang reminded, "Everything should be done in moderation. If you train too hard, your body may not be able to handle it."


    "I understand, I''ll be careful."


    Li Ziye nodded, "Old Zhang, with my current cultivation, what are my chances of winning against a martial artist of the Third Prince''s level?"


    "No chance of winning."


    Slovenly Zhang told the truth, "The Third Prince has already opened his second Divine Hidden Technique, a whole realm higher than you. In the path of Martial Arts, each realm is a world apart. The possibility of defeating him is extremely small."


    At this point, Slovenly Zhang paused slightly, then continued, "You started late and don''t have an advantage in talent. It''s normal to be behind the Third Prince. Take your time, as long as you can master the Flying Immortal Technique, your future martial arts achievements won''t lose to anyone."


    "I''m afraid I can''t wait that long. Enough talk, time to practice."


    Li Ziye said softly, then picked up the Pure Jun Sword beside him and continued to practice the second move of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    In front of the bonfire, Slovenly Zhang watched the young man practicing his sword in the wilderness, a hint of surprise flashing in his aged eyes.


    Going to the Capital City now was indeed a bit early.


    However, he had high hopes for this kid.


    Because this guy was ruthless, not only to others but even more so to himself.


    To put it bluntly, this kid was a madman. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom!"


    In the wilderness, the sword light broke through the air, and a huge rock shattered at the sound. The young man danced with his sword, improving bit by bit, slowly but visibly.


    At dawn, Li Ziye was so tired that he could hardly move, but he forced himself to sit cross-legged, taking advantage of the moment when the spiritual energy of heaven and earth was at its strongest during the day and night transition, to cultivate the mental method of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    Half an hour later, everyone packed up their belongings and prepared to set off.


    Li Ziye slowly opened his eyes, exhaled a turbid breath, and clearly felt that the sea of true essence in his chest''s Divine Hidden Technique was much stronger than before.


    "It seems that the more exhausted I am when practicing the Flying Immortal Technique, the better the effect."


    Li Ziye clenched his fist. If this was the case, he wasn''t being hard enough on himself.


    "Madman."


    Slovenly Zhang shook his head helplessly, then bent over and got into the carriage.


    If he had been half as diligent as this kid in his youth, he wouldn''t have lost to that charlatan from the Western Regions in that competition.


    Not far away, Li Ziye walked over, and before getting into the carriage, he glanced at the east, a chill flashing in his eyes.


    Sister Youwei, I''m coming.


    No one can bully the people of the Li Family.


    Not even the Royal Family!

 Chapter 22 – Forced marriage

    The capital city of Great Shang, Li Garden.


    Li Youwei arrived at the newly acquired property in the capital city, serving as the foundation of the Li Family in the capital.


    Originally a fresh and elegant house, it had become somewhat gloomy and polluted due to the appearance of a person.


    Chen Yifei, the son of the Martial Prince.


    In the capital city of Great Shang, there were countless powerful clans. However, if we were to talk about the most powerful person, it would undoubtedly be the ten Martial Princes.


    Great Shang valued martial arts, and the title of prince was bestowed upon those skilled in martial arts. How glorious it was.


    It could be said that the ten Martial Princes of Great Shang held half of the power of the entire Royal Dynasty of Great Shang.


    And the Martial Prince of Xuanyu, who was one of the ten Martial Princes, held immense power.


    What was even more terrifying was that the sister of the Martial Prince of Xuanyu, who was Chen Yifei''s aunt, had entered the palace as a concubine in her early years and gave birth to a son, who was now the prominent Third Prince. This made the already illustrious Xuanyu Martial Prince''s family even more untouchable.


    Therefore, Chen Yifei''s status was not far from that of a prince, if not comparable.


    At a banquet hosted by the Third Prince, Chen Yifei saw Li Youwei for the first time and was amazed by her beauty. For many days, he had been pursuing her relentlessly, and even sent a marriage proposal in a grand manner, causing the entire capital city to know about it.


    This was already a blatant forced marriage. The Crown Prince of the Martial Prince sent a marriage proposal, and in this capital city, who would dare to refuse?


    No one expected that Li Youwei would dare.


    In front of everyone, Li Youwei unhesitatingly threw away all the marriage gifts sent by the Crown Prince of the Martial Prince.


    Chen Yifei was furious and sent someone to snatch her when Li Youwei went out of the residence for errands.


    If it weren''t for the skilled experts secretly arranged by Li Qingzhi to protect Li Youwei, perhaps she would have suffered a great loss.


    The situation escalated, and everyone in the capital city of Great Shang was waiting to see how this farce would end.


    "Yifei, don''t go too far in everything. The Royal Family and the Li Family cannot tear their faces apart."


    In the residence of the Third Prince, Mu Yao looked at the man in front of him and advised. His cousin''s actions in these days had gone too far.


    "Cousin, they are just a merchant family. Is it necessary to hold them in such high regard?"


    Sitting across from the tea table, a young man with a handsome appearance but a pale complexion said disdainfully.


    "The Li Family is not an ordinary merchant family. Their business has spread throughout Great Shang, and their wealth is astonishing. Even the court has to be wary of them to some extent." Mu Yao said seriously.


    "Cousin, no matter how rich the Li Family is, as long as I ascend to the throne, this world will belong to me, let alone a Li Family." Chen Yifei said indifferently.


    "Don''t talk nonsense!"


    Mu Yao''s expression changed slightly, and he said in a deep voice, "This world belongs to the Emperor. Only the Emperor''s words count when it comes to succession."


    Upon hearing his cousin''s reprimand, Chen Yifei was startled and realized that he had misspoken. He dared not say anything more.


    Mu Yao looked at the frightened look on the man''s face and sighed softly, "Yifei, it''s not that I''m being strict as your cousin, but there are dangers at every step in this imperial city. If you make a wrong move, it will be irreparable. Although the Empress is favored in the palace, she is still controlled by the Empress in every aspect. It''s not as glamorous as it seems on the surface. So, try to avoid trouble outside, understand?"


    "I understand."


    Chen Yifei nodded and replied softly.


    Mu Yao shook his head helplessly, picked up the tea in front of him, and took a sip, hoping that his cousin would truly take his words to heart.


    Half an hour later, Chen Yifei left the residence of the Third Prince. The submissive appearance he had just now disappeared, and he showed a disdainful expression.


    "What a thing. He dares to lecture me just because of his identity as my cousin."


    Chen Yifei muttered to himself in a low voice, then got into the sedan chair and said, "Go to Li Garden!"


    In the residence of the Third Prince, a servant hurriedly approached and reported, "Your Highness, the Crown Prince has arrived at Li Garden again."


    Mu Yao narrowed his eyes upon hearing this. This kid was truly beyond redemption.


    If he pushed the Li Residence too far, the consequences would be much more severe than he imagined.


    In front of Li Garden, Chen Yifei got out of the sedan chair and walked towards the mansion in front.


    "Your Highness, our young miss said she doesn''t want to see any guests today."


    In front of the mansion, two servants stepped forward to stop him and said.


    "I am your future brother-in-law, not a guest."


    Chen Yifei said with a smile on his face, pushing the two aside and continuing to walk forward.


    "Your Highness, the young miss has said that she doesn''t want to see any guests today. Please don''t make it difficult for us."


    The two servants hurriedly blocked his way again and said.


    "Get lost!"


    Chen Yifei''s smile disappeared when he saw this, and he shouted.


    The faces of the two servants changed, but they still stood in front, refusing to let him pass.


    "You don''t know what''s good for you. Come, beat them for me!"


    Chen Yifei''s expression turned cold, and he shouted.


    "Yes!"


    Four burly men behind him stepped forward, forcibly pulling the two servants away, and started punching and kicking.


    Chen Yifei snorted coldly, then stepped into the mansion in front.


    In Li Garden, Li Youwei was sorting out the accounts of these days in the main hall. At this moment, a maid hurriedly walked in and said anxiously, "Miss, the Crown Prince has come again." S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the hall, Li Youwei frowned lightly upon hearing this and said, "I know, you may leave."


    "Yes!"


    The maid took her orders and turned to leave.


    "What do you think? Should I step in and get rid of him for you?"


    A red-clothed woman in the back spoke lightly.


    "No need."


    Li Youwei shook her head and said, "After all, he is the Crown Prince of the Martial Prince. If you use force against him here, we will also be in trouble."


    Hong Zhu nodded, no longer saying anything, and a cold light flickered in her eyes.This Prince Xuanwu is really persistent. If it weren''t for the Tower Master''s intervention last time, Li Youwei would have been in danger.


    That''s why the Tower Master sent her to protect Li Youwei personally.


    Speaking of which, Li Ziye should have received the message too. It''s about time.


    But that kid is not as easy to talk to as her.


    "Young Sister Youwei, I''m here. Why are you always avoiding me?"


    At this moment, outside the main hall, that annoying voice sounded, followed by Chen Yifei walking over with a smile on his face, looking frivolous, and reaching out towards Li Youwei.


    "Prince, please behave."


    Li Youwei took a step back, avoiding his hand, and calmly said, "This is Li Garden, not the Prince''s mansion. Li Garden has its own rules, so I hope the Prince won''t overstep them."


    "Rules? Haha."


    Chen Yifei laughed loudly and said, "In this Great Shang Capital, no one has ever talked to me, Chen Yifei, about rules. Miss Li, you are indeed different. How about considering the matter I mentioned? As long as you agree, I will immediately marry you in a grand procession."


    "I have already made it clear to the Prince that I have no intention of getting married yet. Prince, please leave." Li Youwei said calmly.


    "If you won''t drink a toast, you will drink a forfeit!"


    Being rejected again, Chen Yifei''s face instantly darkened, and he said, "Capture this ungrateful woman and bring her back to the mansion."


    "Yes!"


    With a command, four burly men rolled up their sleeves and walked into the hall, ready to capture someone.


    Behind Li Youwei, Hong Zhu saw this and stepped forward, her expression indifferent, and said, "Prince, are you sure you want to resort to violence?"


    Only then did Chen Yifei notice the woman behind Li Youwei, and his eyes showed a hint of surprise.


    This woman in red clothes was no less beautiful than Li Youwei. Where did Li Garden find so many stunning beauties?


    "May I ask the name of this lady?" Chen Yifei asked with a frivolous smile.


    "Hong Zhu!"


    Hong Zhu said lightly.


    "Hong Zhu, what a nice name. How about coming back to the mansion with me? As long as you serve this Prince well, I guarantee that you can have whatever you want in the future."


    With these words, Chen Yifei reached out his hand and touched the beautiful face of the woman in front of him.


    Seeing this, Hong Zhu smiled brightly on her face, not even dodging, and looked at Li Youwei behind her, saying softly, "That''s possible, but you have to ask him first."


    "Him?"


    Chen Yifei was taken aback and subconsciously looked behind him.


    But in Li Garden, at some point, a young man dressed in a cloud brocade robe appeared. He didn''t say a word and walked step by step towards the main hall.


    Behind the young man was a slovenly old man who didn''t look particularly special.


    Chen Yifei frowned and said, "Where did this wild brat come from? Don''t delay this Prince''s business, go away."


    Li Ziye ignored him and walked into the main hall, coming to Li Youwei and Hong Zhu''s side, and whispered, "Are you alright?"


    "I''m fine."


    Li Youwei showed a gentle smile on her face and said softly.


    "If you didn''t come, there would have been trouble."


    Hong Zhu smiled charmingly, afraid that things wouldn''t be big enough, and added fuel to the fire.


    "Is that him?"


    Li Ziye turned around and asked.


    "Yes, Prince Xuanwu. His father is one of the ten martial kings of Great Shang, a big shot who is not easy to mess with." Hong Zhu smiled.


    "He has a good father."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "Actually, I also have a good father."


    Chen Yifei looked at the two of them harmoniously and his expression became even more gloomy. He looked at the four people and shouted, "What are you waiting for? Capture them!"


    "Capture them?"


    Li Ziye smiled, a smile that sent chills down one''s spine, and said, "Old Zhang, lend me a hand. Ten jars of intoxication and death."


    "Bold!"


    Upon hearing this, Old Zhang grinned and swiftly appeared in front of the four people.


    In the blink of an eye, the four of them felt a blur before them, and in the next moment, they were all hit hard and flew out, spitting blood.


    Seeing this, Chen Yifei''s face showed astonishment and a hint of fear.


    Li Ziye looked at him, still wearing a brilliant smile on his face, and said, "You can leave on your own, or should I help you?"


    "Insolent! I am Prince Xuanwu. If you dare to disrespect me, I will make my father execute your entire family." Chen Yifei shouted angrily.


    "Then shall I help you?" Li Ziye smiled and reached out his hand, grabbing the Prince''s throat. The smile on his face disappeared, and his tone became cold, "I''ll wait for you to see if you will execute my entire family first, or if I will torture you to death first!"


    With that, Li Ziye lifted the Prince Xuanwu and kicked him out.


    With a loud bang, Chen Yifei fell heavily to the ground, sliding more than ten zhang away.


    "Cough! Cough! Cough!"


    Outside the main hall, Chen Yifei covered his throat and coughed violently, looking at the young man in the hall with fear, and said, "You wait, all of you wait for this Prince."


    After speaking, Chen Yifei struggled to get up, staggered, and ran towards the outside of the mansion.


    "Young Brother, you are too impulsive."


    Inside the main hall, Li Youwei spoke softly to Li Ziye, who was leaving in a sorry state.


    "Because she bullied Young Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye''s tone was gentle as he said, "I have already restrained myself. Look, I didn''t kill him."


    "You..." Li Youwei looked helpless and didn''t say anything more.


    "Heartless person, just now, I almost fell victim too. Why doesn''t anyone come to comfort me?" Hong Zhu said with a pretended taste.Upon hearing this, Li Ziye showed a smile and said, "I thought Sister Hong Zhu did this willingly."


    "Looking for a beating!"


    Hong Zhu glared with her almond-shaped eyes, raising her hand as if to strike.


    Meanwhile, in the various mansions of the Capital of Great Shang, the news of the legitimate son of the Li Family appearing in the Capital City spread rapidly.


    In the mansion of the Third Prince, Mu Yao''s expression changed instantly upon receiving the news.


    Li Ziye is here.


    So fast!

 Chapter 23 – Meet again

    Third Prince''s Residence, Mu Yao looked at the intelligence on the table, his expression very serious.


    Li Ziye, finally came.


    Faster than he had imagined.


    "Your Highness, the Crown Prince went to Li Garden, will there be trouble?"


    Beside him, a servant who looked like a young boy spoke up, reminding him.


    Mu Yao''s expression slightly changed upon hearing this, and he immediately stood up.


    However, after a moment, Mu Yao sat back down again, his face turning grim.


    It''s too late!


    Now he can only hope that his foolish cousin doesn''t anger the legitimate son of the Li Family too much.


    That Li Ziye is a lunatic.


    He dares to even fight him, a prince, let alone the Crown Prince of the Martial Arts King.


    In the end, it was his cousin''s fault. Before the Royal Family and the Li Family completely tore their faces apart, he wouldn''t make things difficult for the Li Family.


    So, even if Chen Yifei was beaten in the Li Residence, it would be in vain. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If his idiot cousin wants to regain his reputation, he can only solve it himself.


    In the Wang Residence, amidst the shocked gazes of everyone, Chen Yifei, in a disheveled state, ran back, his face ferocious, and barged into the study.


    "Father, I want him dead, I want him dead!"


    Chen Yifei looked at the man in the study, unable to contain his anger.


    In the study, the Martial Arts King raised his head and looked at his legitimate son who had intruded without permission, calmly saying, "Get out!"


    "Father!"


    Chen Yifei said anxiously.


    "Get out!"


    The Martial Arts King''s gaze turned cold as he shouted.


    Chen Yifei''s body trembled, only then did he notice that besides his father, there was also a woman in the room.


    The woman was extremely beautiful, dressed in red, with a charming and enchanting appearance. Her lips were like vermillion, her face adorned with red flowers, and her black hair reached her waist, exuding a seductive aura.


    However, when Chen Yifei saw the woman''s appearance, instead of showing infatuation, his whole body shivered in fear, and he stumbled out in panic.


    Rakshasa King, Tao Yaoyao!


    How did this crazy woman end up here?


    Chen Yifei had a huge shadow in his heart because he didn''t recognize the identity of the Rakshasa woman. He had once flirted with her and watched helplessly as this crazy woman tore out the hearts of all his subordinates.


    That bloody scene, he still couldn''t forget.


    "It seems that the Crown Prince is very afraid of me."


    In the study, Tao Yaoyao looked at the embarrassed figure of the Martial Arts King''s Crown Prince and smiled lightly.


    "The reputation of the Rakshasa King is known throughout the world. It''s normal for the son to be in awe." The Martial Arts King said calmly.


    This woman and he were both one of the Ten Martial Kings. Although she was a woman, no one dared to provoke her. She had a smiling face but a heart like a snake and scorpion.


    "Judging from the Crown Prince''s appearance, it seems that he has suffered a lot. It seems that the legitimate son of the Li Family is not a soft-hearted person." Tao Yaoyao smiled.


    "The younger generation''s affairs, they will handle it themselves. Rakshasa King, let''s continue discussing important matters." The Martial Arts King said in a deep voice.


    "I don''t want to talk anymore. Being disturbed by my son, I have no interest. Let''s talk another day."


    Tao Yaoyao casually replied, then lazily stretched her waist, got up and walked out of the study.


    The Martial Arts King watched her leaving figure, his expression becoming even more gloomy.


    This Rakshasa woman really doesn''t take him seriously!


    "Father."


    Outside the study, Chen Yifei saw the Rakshasa King leave and walked in again, with a face full of grievances, "You have to help your son."


    "Useless thing."


    The Martial Arts King coldly snorted, "I have told you before, don''t provoke anyone from the Li Family if there''s nothing wrong. You just don''t listen. Now that you''ve suffered a loss, you still want me to help you? Do you want me, the Martial Arts King of Great Shang, to go and make trouble for those juniors from the Li Family?"


    "Father, does that mean I have to bear this loss?" Chen Yifei said anxiously.


    "You solve it yourself."


    The Martial Arts King said indifferently, "You have many friends, don''t you? Now is the time to use them."


    Chen Yifei suddenly realized upon hearing this, his face showing joy, "Thank you, Father, for reminding me."


    After speaking, Chen Yifei turned around and hurriedly left the study.


    The Martial Arts King looked at his son''s incompetent appearance, shook his head helplessly. If his son had half the scheming of his cousin, this matter wouldn''t be so troublesome.


    Just as the Martial Arts King''s Crown Prince was about to find his friends to regain his reputation, Li Garden, shortly after Li Ziye arrived, he received the first visit from an esteemed guest.


    Third Prince, Mu Yao.


    Of course, for Li Ziye, the Third Prince was no longer a stranger.


    Old friends.


    "Why did the Third Royal Highness come in person? Originally, I planned to settle down and then visit the Third Prince''s Residence."


    In the main hall, Li Ziye and Mu Yao sat facing each other, with tea boiling on the table, emitting hot steam.


    "I heard that Brother Li came to the capital city, so I came to take a look."


    Mu Yao pretended to be angry and said, "What, not welcoming?"


    "How could that be."


    Li Ziye smiled apologetically and said, "The arrival of the Third Royal Highness has truly brought brilliance to Li Garden."


    Beside them, Hong Zhu picked up the brewed tea and poured hot tea for the two of them. Dressed in red, her beautiful face was reflected in the tea, exuding a charming aura.


    Mu Yao glanced at the woman in front of him, a hint of astonishment flashed in his eyes, but he quickly looked away, not being rude.


    This woman had an extraordinary temperament and didn''t seem like an ordinary maid.


    "Hong Zhu, you can go down first. I have something to discuss with the Third Prince."


    Li Ziye spoke and instructed.


    "Yes!"


    Hong Zhu respectfully responded and then got up and left.


    After Hong Zhu left, only the two of them remained in the main hall. Mu Yao looked at the young man in front of him and apologized, "I want to apologize to Brother Li for Chen Yifei''s actions. My cousin is impulsive and offended Miss Li. I hope Brother Li can be magnanimous and not hold it against him."


    "It''s not Your Highness''s fault, so there''s no need to apologize."Li Ziye calmly said, "As for the Crown Prince of Xuanwu, I''m afraid it''s no longer a matter of whether I care or not."


    This matter, the Crown Prince of Xuanwu would certainly not let it go. Of course, he also didn''t want Chen Yifei to back down. Otherwise, how could he justify getting rid of that brat?


    Mu Yao, having heard this, sighed softly and said, "I understand Brother Li''s meaning. When I go back, I will try to persuade Yifei not to stir up trouble anymore."


    "That would be best."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Alright, Your Highness has come all this way, let''s not talk about these depressing matters. Your Highness, this is my first time in the Capital of Great Shang, I wonder if you could show me around when you have some free time?"


    Mu Yao was taken aback for a moment, then he smiled and said, "Why wait for another day? How about today?"


    "Today?"


    Li Ziye glanced outside and said, "That would be great. I''ll have to trouble Your Highness then, please!"


    "Please!"


    The two of them got up, gestured to each other, and walked towards the outside of the main hall.


    "Young Master!"


    Outside the main hall, Hong Zhu saluted and asked, "Do you want Hong Zhu to accompany you?"


    "No need."


    Li Ziye shook his head and said, "You stay in the mansion and guard the Li Garden. If anyone comes to make trouble, just kick them out."


    "Yes!"


    Hong Zhu respectfully replied.


    Mu Yao heard their conversation and was slightly surprised. Indeed, this woman in red was no ordinary person.


    The depth of the Li Family was probably deeper than they had imagined.


    On the streets of the Capital, Li Ziye and Mu Yao walked side by side, admiring the bustling scenery of the Capital.


    Compared to Yuzhou City, the Capital was obviously much more lively, with people coming and going, and the sounds of business everywhere.


    However, not long after they started walking, the people in front of them panicked and made way for a group of people rushing over.


    Seeing the newcomers, Mu Yao was stunned, and a brilliant smile appeared on Li Ziye''s face.


    What a coincidence, enemies on a narrow road!


    "It''s him!"


    At the front of the group, Chen Yifei saw Li Ziye and angrily said, "Brothers, get him!"


    "Yifei, don''t be reckless!"


    Seeing this, Mu Yao''s expression darkened and he shouted.


    "Cousin, stay out of this!"


    With his enemy in front of him, Chen Yifei didn''t care about anything else. He responded and then shouted to his friends behind him, "Beat him up, and tonight, I''ll cover all the expenses at the Shihua Garden."


    "Haha, since the Crown Prince has spoken, we will certainly vent this anger for him."


    Behind him, a group of playboys echoed loudly, then all of them walked forward with malicious smiles on their faces.


    "Kid, you''re really asking for trouble, daring to provoke our Crown Prince."


    "......"


    Seeing the group of playboys in front of him, Li Ziye didn''t even feel like retorting. Why were there such brainless idiots everywhere?


    "Brothers, hurry up, we''ll go for drinks after we''re done!"


    Among the group of playboys, someone shouted, and then was the first to rush forward.


    Then¡­¡­


    In the small courtyard where the Confucian Scholar resided in the Imperial Academy.


    Qin E''nuo remained silent, while the elegant and old face of the scholar was filled with a hint of a smile.


    "How is it?" Kong Qiu asked softly.


    "I accept the loss."


    Qin E''nuo calmly said, "For the next year, I will teach at the Imperial Academy."


    "To be able to listen to the lectures of the Fairy of the Plum Blossom Sword, I believe the students of my Imperial Academy will be very happy."


    Kong Qiu smiled and said, "Do you want to bet again? Let''s bet on when Li Ziye of the Li Family will come to my Imperial Academy."


    "No bet."


    Qin E''nuo shook her head and said, "The Confucian Scholar can predict the affairs of the world. Having experienced it personally, how dare I bet with the Confucian Scholar again."


    "The Imperial Academy has been quiet for too long. It''s time to liven things up." Kong Qiu said softly.


    On the streets of the Capital!


    Screams of agony rang out. In the shocked eyes of the surrounding people, all the playboys brought by Chen Yifei were knocked down, rolling on the ground in pain.


    Behind them, Chen Yifei stood there, his face pale and his legs trembling. He could barely stand, but his mouth was still threatening:


    "You, you''re doomed. You''ve hit the students of the Imperial Academy. The Imperial Academy won''t let you go!"


    "Third Royal Highness, let''s go."


    Li Ziye didn''t pay any attention, he looked at the Third Prince beside him and said.


    "Alright."


    Mu Yao sighed lightly and nodded in agreement.


    As they passed by, Li Ziye paused for a moment and whispered in Chen Yifei''s ear, "Today, I''ll spare you for the sake of the Third Royal Highness. Next time, you won''t be so lucky."


    Find the original at "pawread dot com".


    After saying that, Li Ziye continued to walk forward.


    Chen Yifei shivered, his face becoming even paler.


    "Brother Li, thank you!"


    Mu Yao thanked him.


    He knew that the reason Li Ziye didn''t take action against Chen Yifei was all because of him.


    "Your Highness is too polite."


    Li Ziye smiled. He couldn''t possibly beat up his cousin in front of the Third Prince, could he? Wouldn''t that be like slapping the Third Prince in the face in public?


    He and the Third Prince were brothers!


    How could he possibly stab his brother in the back?


    However, speaking of which, he had heard Chen Yifei mention the Imperial Academy earlier. His Fairy Master had gone there, but there was still no news.


    He hoped that the Imperial Academy would really come to trouble him.


    Otherwise, he really didn''t know how to sneak in and find the whereabouts of his Fairy Master.


    Fairy Master, your obedient disciple misses you!

 Chapter 24 – Tao Yaoyao

    In the capital city, Li Ziye and Mu Yao strolled around for half a day, meeting their "old friend" and having a pleasant conversation.


    During their stroll, Li Ziye noticed the ten imposing mansions located in different directions within the capital city.


    Even without getting close, they could feel the powerful oppression emanating from them.


    The ten Martial Kings of Great Shang!


    Li Ziye secretly noted the positions of the ten Martial Kings'' mansions. He knew that if the Li Family were to confront the royal family in the future, they would have to face these formidable Martial Kings of Great Shang.


    Half a day later, Li Ziye and the Third Prince parted ways and prepared to return to their respective residences.


    However, while passing by one of the Martial Kings'' mansions, a woman walked towards them from the opposite direction.


    She was dressed in red, with a beautiful face and captivating lips that were almost intimidating to look at.


    Upon seeing the woman, Li Ziye instinctively felt a strong sense of danger.


    A Rakshasa!


    Li Ziye''s heart sank. Before coming here, he had deliberately studied the information on all the forces in the capital city of Great Shang.


    Especially the ten Martial Kings, which left a deep impression on him.


    Among the ten Martial Kings, the Rakshasa was the only woman. Although she was a woman, her strength was extremely formidable, ranking among the top Martial Kings.


    Legend has it that the Rakshasa was ruthless, and anyone who offended her would meet a tragic end.


    As Li Ziye''s mind was in turmoil, Tao Yaoyao also noticed the young man in front of her.


    Immediately, a smile curved on her red lips.


    Is this the Li Family''s legitimate son that Confucian Scholar mentioned?


    Qin E''nuo''s disciple, he doesn''t seem to have anything special about him.


    Except for being good-looking.


    In front of the Rakshasa''s mansion, Li Ziye suppressed the waves in his heart, said nothing, and silently walked forward.


    Seeing this, Tao Yaoyao''s face revealed a playful smile.


    She was certain that this young man recognized her identity.


    As they passed each other, Tao Yaoyao stopped in her tracks and smiled, "The legitimate son of the Li Family?"


    Li Ziye ignored her, quickened his pace, and wanted to leave this troublesome place.


    He didn''t want to confront a Martial King so soon. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Li Ziye!"


    Seeing the young man walking faster, Tao Yaoyao lightly stepped forward, her figure flashing like a shooting star, instantly blocking his path.


    Li Ziye''s expression changed, but he forcibly suppressed the turmoil in his heart and continued to pretend not to recognize her, asking, "Who are you?"


    Tao Yaoyao smiled charmingly and pointed to the mansion beside her, saying, "This mansion belongs to me."


    Seeing this, Li Ziye''s face showed a shocked expression, and he quickly bowed, saying, "So you are the Rakshasa, my apologies for the disrespect."


    "Stop pretending."


    Tao Yaoyao sneered, "You don''t look like it at all. Didn''t Qin E''nuo teach you to greet your elders?"


    "I really didn''t recognize you as the Rakshasa before, my apologies."


    Li Ziye still refused to admit it and said, "Rakshasa, do you know my master?"


    "Not only do I know her."


    Tao Yaoyao said lightly, "She is my enemy."


    Li Ziye''s heart trembled at her words. Damn it, am I this unlucky?


    Old Qin, are you trying to kill me?


    "What''s wrong, scared?"


    Tao Yaoyao teased, "Don''t worry, I won''t make things difficult for a junior like you."


    "Rakshasa, you are magnanimous. I admire you!"


    Li Ziye complimented respectfully, then his eyes turned, and he said respectfully, "I just arrived in the capital city today, and there are many things to arrange in my residence. I will take my leave now."


    After speaking, Li Ziye bowed again and turned to leave.


    This is not a place to stay for long!


    "Stop."


    Behind him, Tao Yaoyao said lightly, "Did I let you go?"


    Li Ziye''s footsteps paused, and he reluctantly turned back.


    Old Qin, save me!


    "Where is your master now?" Tao Yaoyao asked.


    "She is in the capital city."


    Li Ziye decisively betrayed Old Qin, then thought for a moment and added, "She is probably in the Imperial Academy."


    "The Imperial Academy?"


    Tao Yaoyao frowned and asked, "What is she doing there?"


    After speaking, Tao Yaoyao looked at the young man in front of her and said, "I heard that you created your own sword technique at the age of ten, is that true?"


    "It''s just a rumor, definitely a rumor."


    Li Ziye immediately denied, saying, "How could I create a sword technique at the age of ten? Rakshasa, please don''t believe these rumors."


    Tao Yaoyao looked at the person in front of her and said, "You must have some skills, otherwise, Qin E''nuo wouldn''t have accepted you as her disciple. Today, I will test what Qin E''nuo has taught you."


    As she finished speaking, Tao Yaoyao raised her hand and slapped it forward.


    Before the palm strength of a Martial King-level expert arrived, the bone-chilling palm wind had already rushed towards Li Ziye.


    Li Ziye was startled, and his figure instinctively moved, swiftly gliding nine steps away like a startled swan.


    "Feixian Art?"


    Tao Yaoyao''s expression changed, surprised.


    Qin E''nuo actually taught this kid the Feixian Art. Has that woman gone mad?


    Everyone in the world knows that the Feixian Art is the most difficult cultivation technique, both in terms of mental cultivation and techniques.


    Did Qin E''nuo really give up on her three-year agreement with the Old Ancestor of the Vermilion Bird Sect?


    This doesn''t seem like her style.


    Nine steps away, Li Ziye looked at the changing expression of the Rakshasa, suppressing his anger, and said calmly, "Rakshasa, I don''t know about the grudges between you and my master, and I don''t want to get involved. Now, my master is in the capital city. If you have any business, you can go find her. There''s no need to take it out on me, a junior. It''s beneath your status as a Martial King."


    "You little brat sure knows how to talk. Fine, you can go. I don''t want people to say that I bully the weak." Tao Yaoyao waved her hand.


    "Goodbye."


    Li Ziye bowed and turned to leave quickly.


    "An extraordinary person beyond fate. Confucian Scholar, what exactly do you mean?" Tao Yaoyao watched the young man''s departing figure, a glimmer of light flashing in her eyes.


    Previously, when she went to the Imperial Academy, Confucian Scholar mentioned this legitimate son of the Li Family several times and said some things she couldn''t understand. That''s why she was so interested in this young man.In this world, there were not many people who could catch the attention of the Confucian Scholar. The last person who was repeatedly mentioned by the Scholar was that scholar.


    Fu Jinglun!


    A young man who was once full of passion and knowledge.


    Now, he is the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple, the largest teaching institution in the Western Regions, and the second most influential person in the Nine Provinces!


    The number of times the Confucian Scholar mentioned this legitimate heir of the Li Family, Li Ziye, was even more than Fu Jinglun. Does this mean that Li Ziye''s future achievements will surpass Fu Jinglun''s?


    Li Garden, Li Ziye returned at sunset.


    There was still a thin layer of cold sweat on Li Ziye''s face. Apparently, encountering the Rakshasa King on the road was beyond his expectation.


    "Younger Brother, what happened?"


    In the inner courtyard, Li Youwei saw the unusual expression on his face and asked with concern.


    "I ran into the Rakshasa King on my way back."


    Li Ziye didn''t hide anything and told the truth, "We exchanged a move. If the Rakshasa King was just testing me, I wouldn''t have been able to return today."


    "The Rakshasa King?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Youwei was shocked, "Why did she attack you?"


    "It seems to have something to do with Qin E''nuo."


    Li Ziye answered, then asked, "Sister Youwei, I haven''t had a chance to ask you, how are the negotiations going?"


    "They''re still ongoing. Your Second Brother is also investigating the Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the forces behind the Yin Family Money House. However, it''s certain that these three families have intricate connections with the royal family."


    Li Youwei said solemnly, "You guessed right. The royal family wants to interfere in our Li Family''s business and then disintegrate the entire Li Family without a fight."


    "Dealing with a tiger is naturally fraught with danger."


    Li Ziye nodded, "What about Second Brother? Has he taken action?"


    "Not yet."


    Li Youwei shook her head, "He should be waiting for an opportunity. The day after tomorrow, I have an appointment with them to continue discussing cooperation. Since you, the legitimate heir of the Li Family, are here, you should go with me. Otherwise, they might take this opportunity to make trouble, saying that our Li Family doesn''t respect them enough to let a woman negotiate with them."


    "That''s fine."


    Upon hearing this, a cold light flashed in Li Ziye''s eyes, "I''ll take this opportunity to meet these big shots in the Capital City."


    "Kid, are you done talking?"


    At this moment, Slovenly Zhang''s voice rang out in the inner courtyard, "If you''re done, come and do something useful!"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye said, "Sister Youwei, I''ll go first."


    To read the uncut version, go to ].


    "Okay."


    Li Youwei nodded in response.


    Li Ziye walked towards the room in front of him. Inside the room, steam was rising and the smell of medicine was pungent.


    "You said this Qin E''nuo, we''ve already arrived in the Capital City, but she still hasn''t come back."


    Slovenly Zhang looked at Li Ziye who was walking towards him, complaining while throwing medicine into the wooden barrel, "Now it''s good, all the dirty and tiring work is left to me, an old man."


    "I''m also looking for Old Qin, aren''t I?"


    Li Ziye said helplessly, "In the next few days, I''ll find an opportunity to go to the Imperial Academy to see if there are any clues about Old Qin. You''ll have to bear with it for a few more days."


    "I guess there''s no other way, take off your clothes."


    Slovenly Zhang said unhappily.


    Li Ziye nodded, quickly took off his clothes, and then.


    Stepped into the medicinal barrel.


    "Ah!"


    The next moment, a miserable scream echoed in the room, making the quiet night even more eerie.


    However, the servants of Li Garden, who were brought from the Li Residence in Yuzhou City, were already used to it.


    In fact, if they didn''t hear the Young Master scream a few times a day, they would feel like something was missing and couldn''t sleep.


    Half an hour later, Slovenly Zhang walked out of the room with a tired face, covered in sweat, as if he had done something very exhausting.


    A quarter of an hour later, Li Ziye staggered out, barely able to walk steadily.


    The night passed without a word, and the next day dawned.


    In front of Li Garden, four young men dressed as scholars appeared, asking to see Li Ziye.


    In the inner courtyard, Li Ziye was surprised when he heard the servant''s report.


    Scholars?


    People from the Imperial Academy?


    They''re really fast!


    Li Ziye walked out of Li Garden. The four scholars saw him coming and politely saluted, "Young Master Li, please come with us to the Imperial Academy."


    "Lead the way."


    Li Ziye agreed without asking for the reason.


    Upon hearing this, the four scholars were stunned. They thought that the legitimate heir of the Li Family would disagree, or even resist with force.


    The Imperial Academy had sent the four of them together just in case.


    Soon, the leading scholar came back to his senses and politely said, "Young Master Li, please!"


    Li Ziye nodded, then stepped forward.


    Imperial Academy.


    In the Enforcement Hall, four law enforcers sat quietly. The seat at the head was empty, with no one sitting in it.


    Above the law enforcers was the Law Master, but the Law Master of the Enforcement Hall would not show up for ordinary matters.


    Before long, the four scholars brought Li Ziye in, saluted respectfully, and then turned and left.


    Inside the Enforcement Hall, Li Ziye looked at the four law enforcers of the Confucian School, grinned, then bowed slightly and saluted, "Junior Li Ziye, greets the four law enforcers."

 Chapter 25 – Confucian Scholar in charge

    Imperial Academy, Confucian School''s Enforcement Hall.


    The atmosphere was stagnant, even a bit oppressive.


    The four commanding officers had cold expressions and remained silent, clearly trying to intimidate Li Ziye.


    In all these years, no one has dared to publicly attack a student from the Imperial Academy. Li Ziye is the first.


    After bowing in the Enforcement Hall, Li Ziye stood up with a smile on his face, quietly standing there without any hurry.


    Keep pretending, I don''t believe you won''t speak.


    Sure enough, not long after, one of the commanding officers snorted and spoke, "Li Ziye, do you know your crime?"


    "I don''t know."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "What crime have I committed?"


    "Using private punishment and assaulting the students of the Imperial Academy, this is a serious crime!"


    Another commanding officer spoke coldly.


    "Assaulting?"


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "The people of the entire capital city can testify that I was just acting in self-defense. How can it be considered assault? I have superior martial arts skills compared to them, and I could have stopped at any time. But disregarding benevolence and righteousness, I used heavy force. If I were truly ruthless, those people wouldn''t just be lying down for a few days."


    "Crafty words!"


    The third commanding officer of the Confucian School spoke with a cold and indifferent expression, "Your martial arts are far superior to theirs. You could have stopped at any time, but you chose to use excessive force. If we don''t punish you, you will become a disaster in the future."


    "Hmph."


    Li Ziye sneered and said, "According to what the commanding officer said, if one day, foreign enemies invade our Great Shang, occupy our territory, and kill our people, and all we need to do is scare them away, what kind of logic is that? Yesterday, I clearly heard those people say they wanted to cripple me. If I were a ruthless person, those people would have more than just a few days of trouble."


    "Deceptive words!"


    The fourth commanding officer snorted, "National affairs cannot be compared to personal grievances. Li Ziye, we originally called you here to give you a small punishment, but you show no remorse and are stubborn. If we don''t punish you severely, who knows what kind of trouble you will cause in the future. Guards!"


    "Here!"


    Four Confucian scholars entered the Enforcement Hall and respectfully saluted.


    "Bring the punishment stick."


    The fourth commanding officer said calmly.


    "Yes!"


    The four Confucian scholars received the order and brought the punishment stick with a respectful expression.


    Inside the Enforcement Hall, Li Ziye showed no signs of panic. He looked at the four commanding officers of the Confucian School and said calmly, "Gentlemen, I am not a student of the Imperial Academy. Even if you want to use judgment, it is not the place of the Imperial Academy. Has the Imperial Academy surpassed the laws of the Great Shang Dynasty and can now use corporal punishment at will?"


    "Insolence!"


    The four commanding officers'' expressions changed and they shouted.


    This accusation was not something the Imperial Academy could bear. This kid wanted to discredit the Imperial Academy.


    "Even the laws of the Great Shang Dynasty do not stipulate that self-defense should be punished. But because of the misconduct of your own students, the Imperial Academy forcefully pushes the blame onto others and even uses corporal punishment. The Imperial Academy has such great power. If I were not a member of the Li Family but an ordinary civilian, today, even if I were beaten to death here, no one would dare to say anything. Has the Imperial Academy truly reached the point of covering up the sky with one hand in this capital city?" Li Ziye sneered.


    "You, brat, stop spouting nonsense!"


    The more the four commanding officers listened, the more shocked they became. Cold sweat dripped down their faces as they angrily shouted.


    Because of the existence of the Confucian Scholar, the Imperial Academy did indeed have a superior position. However, this did not mean that the Imperial Academy dared to ignore the existence of the laws of the Great Shang Dynasty.


    "Go ahead and hit me."


    Li Ziye smiled faintly, standing there without moving, "I won''t resist. However, the Imperial Academy should think about how to silence the voices of the people. Of course, the Imperial Academy can also ignore it completely."


    Behind them, the four Confucian scholars holding the punishment stick looked at each other, feeling troubled. They didn''t know whether to hit or not.


    The four commanding officers of the Confucian School also sat there with a grim expression, not daring to give orders easily.


    They were well aware of the influence of the Li Family. If this matter spread, the Confucian School would definitely be pushed to the forefront.


    They didn''t originally intend to make things difficult for this heir of the Li Family. They just wanted to give him a lesson and suppress his arrogance. They didn''t expect things to develop to this point.


    "Clap! Clap! Clap!"


    At this moment, applause sounded outside the Enforcement Hall. Immediately after, a man in his forties walked in, wearing Confucian robes, serious and not smiling, step by step approaching the main seat of the Enforcement Hall.


    "Greetings, Chief Reverend!"


    The four commanding officers of the Confucian School stood up and respectfully saluted the newcomer.


    Li Ziye also looked towards the middle-aged man in front of him, narrowing his eyes slightly.


    Chief Reverend of the Law and Confucianism!


    The head of the Confucian School''s Enforcement Hall, also one of the four revered figures of the Confucian School.


    "You may leave."


    The Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism said calmly.


    "Yes!"


    The four Confucian scholars received the order and left.


    "And you four, go receive your punishment."


    The Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism looked at the four kneeling Confucian School commanding officers below, calmly saying.


    "Yes, Chief Reverend!"


    The four commanding officers of the Confucian School exchanged glances, their expressions changing, then they respectfully saluted again and left.


    With everyone gone, only the Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism and Li Ziye remained in the Enforcement Hall.


    The atmosphere was extremely quiet, and you could hear a pin drop.


    "Li Ziye."


    After a long time, the Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism spoke, calmly saying, "The Confucian School was rude. I hope you won''t take offense."


    "Chief Reverend, you''re too polite."


    Li Ziye bowed and said, "Yesterday, I did indeed go too far."


    He who strikes first is not a smiling face. Since the Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism took the initiative to lower his stance, he couldn''t be unreasonable.


    After all, Old Qin might still be in the Imperial Academy.


    "Li Ziye, are you willing to join the Imperial Academy?"


    The Chief Reverend of Law and Confucianism didn''t beat around the bush and directly stated his intention.


    "Join the Imperial Academy?"


    Li Ziye frowned slightly and said, "Now is not the time for the Imperial Academy to recruit students, right?""I can make an exception for you."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge replied.


    "Why?"


    Li Ziye asked in confusion. He was not narcissistic enough to think of himself as a prodigy that even the Imperial Academy would beg him to join.


    There must be something fishy going on.


    He needed to be careful not to be sold out and even help count the money for the seller!


    "This is the instruction of the Confucian Scholar. I don''t know why either."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge said calmly, "You just need to answer, willing or not."


    "The instruction of the Confucian Scholar? Can I meet him?"


    Li Ziye asked in surprise.


    "No."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge replied indifferently, "The Confucian Scholar didn''t say he wanted to meet you. However, if you join the Imperial Academy, you might have a chance to meet him."


    "Can I consider it?"


    Li Ziye thought for a moment and asked.


    "Yes."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge nodded, "Whenever you have made up your mind, you can give me your answer. There''s no rush."


    "Thank you, Master."


    Li Ziye bowed in gratitude, "If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave."


    "Alright."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge nodded without trying to keep him.


    Li Ziye turned and left, his mind full of doubts.


    The Confucian Scholar?


    He had never met the Confucian Scholar, so why would he mention him?


    After Li Ziye left, the Confucian Scholar in charge also got up and left.


    In an inconspicuous corner of the Imperial Academy, within a small courtyard, the Confucian Scholar in charge came and bowed, "Confucian Scholar, he has left."


    "Did he not agree?"


    An old man in the courtyard asked with a smile.


    "He said he needs to consider it."


    The Confucian Scholar in charge replied.


    "Hmm."


    The old man nodded, "He probably won''t agree so quickly. Let him be. When the time comes, he will agree."


    "Yes!"


    The Confucian Scholar in charge responded respectfully.


    "By the way."


    The old man in the courtyard thought for a moment, "Your disciple is too rigid. Let him get closer to the heir of the Li Family."


    Upon hearing this, the Confucian Scholar in charge''s expression changed slightly. He wanted to say something, but he held back and bowed again, "Yes!"


    "Go and get it done."


    The old man in the courtyard smiled and said.


    The Confucian Scholar in charge nodded and then turned to leave.


    Half a day later, within the Imperial Academy, a young man in a white Confucian robe left and headed straight for the Li Family''s residence.


    Li Ziye, who was taking a rare break to drink tea after practicing his swordsmanship, spat out his tea upon hearing the words of the young man in white. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Cough! Cough! Cough!"


    Li Ziye wiped the tea from his mouth, looking incredulous, "You want to stay here, and the Confucian Scholar in charge sent you?"


    "Yes."


    Bai Wangyu bowed and said seriously, "I hope Brother Li can accommodate me. Otherwise, I won''t be able to explain to the Master when I go back."


    "I can let you stay, but..."


    Li Ziye''s eyes darted around, then he turned to Hong Zhu behind him and whispered, "Is this guy powerful?"


    "He''s more than just powerful."


    Hong Zhu also whispered back, "This Bai Wangyu is the head disciple of the Confucian Scholar, the eldest brother of all the students in the Imperial Academy. It''s said that his cultivation has reached the peak of the second realm, and he''s not far from opening his third Divine Hidden Technique."


    "Damn it, he''s that powerful!"


    Li Ziye was shocked. It was indeed true that one would feel inferior when comparing oneself to others. He was still struggling in the early stage of the first realm, while others were about to break through to the third realm.


    "Could there be any deception?" Li Ziye asked with unease.


    "Probably not."


    Hong Zhu whispered, "Bai Wangyu''s rigidity is well-known. If the Confucian Scholar had other intentions, he wouldn''t have sent him. Let''s take him in first and deal with other matters later. The Li Family is in need of people. By keeping Bai Wangyu, we essentially have an extra free fighter. Moreover, his status is noble. If anyone wants to cause trouble in the Li Family in the future, they''ll have to think twice."


    "Good point!"


    Li Ziye gave a thumbs up, then coughed and sat up straight. He looked at the young man in white in front of him and said, "I can take you in, but the Li Family has its own rules. If you want to stay in the Li Family, you must abide by our rules."


    "I will follow Brother Li''s arrangements in all matters." Bai Wangyu responded seriously.


    "Good."


    Li Ziye was very satisfied. He was in need of a powerful and obedient fighter like this.


    Finally, finally, the heavens remembered him, their beloved son, and arranged a little benefit for him.


    "Come, I''ll take you to your room."


    Li Ziye stood up and personally arranged a place for Bai Wangyu to stay.


    "Thank you, Brother Li."


    Bai Wangyu responded respectfully and then followed him.


    In the west wing, Li Ziye led Bai Wangyu over. On the way, he didn''t forget to negotiate terms, "Brother Bai, I''ve been lacking a sparring partner for my sword practice recently. Do you think we could spar sometime?"


    "If Brother Li wants to spar, I will certainly do my best to accompany you." Bai Wangyu responded.


    "Well... you don''t have to go all out."


    Li Ziye said awkwardly, "For sparring, just suppress your cultivation to the early stage of the first realm. This way, we won''t hurt each other, right?"


    "What Brother Li said makes sense."


    Bai Wangyu nodded in agreement.


    "Hehe, hehe."


    Looking at the innocent-looking senior brother of the Confucian School in front of him, Li Ziye gave an awkward smile. For the first time, he felt a bit guilty.


    Why did he feel like a big bad wolf tricking Little Red Riding Hood?

 Chapter 26 – A fox borrowing the might of a tiger

    Early the next day, Li Ziye came to the west wing to find Bai Wangyu for a sparring session.


    The result...


    Let''s not talk about it.


    "The Flying Immortal Technique that Brother Li just used is the most difficult cultivation method in the world. I heard that Brother Li has only been practicing this technique for less than a month, and in just a month, he has achieved such proficiency. He even used this technique to defeat me in just three moves. Truly a genius." Bai Wangyu said earnestly.


    ...


    Li Ziye sat on the ground, sweating profusely, feeling like crying.


    If it weren''t for Bai Wangyu''s sincere attitude, he would have suspected that this guy was mocking him!


    Three moves, and that''s while suppressing his cultivation level. Good heavens, is there any room for survival?


    "Younger brother, it''s time to go." Li Youwei walked over from the front of the west wing and reminded him.


    Li Ziye immediately stood up, almost forgetting about the matter.


    After taking a few steps, Li Ziye stopped and looked back at the little red hat behind him, a big wolf-like smile appearing on his face. "Brother Bai, let''s go together?"


    Bai Wangyu nodded lightly upon hearing this, without asking where they were going.


    Merchant Alliance, Apricot Garden.


    The autumn breeze gently brushed against the golden leaves of the apricot trees in the garden, creating a beautiful scene.


    In the garden, representatives from the three families had already arrived, accompanied by some younger generations from each family, coming to broaden their horizons together.


    The Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House were the three wealthiest families in the capital city, and they all had astonishing backgrounds.


    Especially the Zhangsun Family, which was backed by the current empress of the Great Shang Dynasty, and their power was overwhelming. It was also because of this that the Zhangsun Family started their business the latest but developed the fastest.


    The Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House also had the support of the imperial court, making them not to be underestimated.


    Today, the three families had come together to jointly decide the division of the capital city''s commercial territory.


    "The Li Family representative has arrived."


    Just then, a voice transmission sounded, causing the lively banquet to quiet down.


    Everyone looked towards the entrance of the garden.


    All eyes were on three figures walking towards them. The leading young man was dressed in cloud brocade, with a face as beautiful as jade, giving off an otherworldly aura. How could such a person not be unmatched in the world?


    "The Li Family''s heir!"


    The representatives of the three families saw the young man at the forefront and their faces showed surprise.


    This Li Family heir was indeed talented. No wonder he was able to become a disciple of the Meihua Immortal Sword.


    Among the representatives of the three families, many young female members saw Li Ziye''s appearance and their eyes filled with ripples of admiration.


    Li Ziye swept his gaze over everyone and felt quite satisfied.


    This was more like it. The people he had encountered before were all old monsters who treated him like an idiot.


    However, before Li Ziye could feel proud, the expressions of the representatives of the three families changed when they saw the white-clad man behind him. They immediately stood up and greeted him.


    "Young Master Bai, why did you come in person?"


    The representatives of the three families smiled ingratiatingly and greeted him.


    This Bai Wangyu was the senior brother of the Confucian School, with a superior status. In the future, he might even become the leader of the Confucian School.


    "Bai Wangyu, it''s Bai Wangyu."


    At this moment, the young female members brought by the three families also recognized Bai Wangyu''s identity and couldn''t help but show their surprise.


    ...


    Li Ziye regretted it. If he had known, he wouldn''t have brought this big light bulb with him.


    Isn''t he stealing his thunder?


    Behind Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu didn''t feel anything from the flattery of the representatives of the three families. He calmly said, "Brother Li asked me to come, so I came."


    As soon as his words fell, everyone present was shocked.


    The Li Family heir asked him to come?


    What did this senior brother of the Confucian School mean?


    At this moment, everyone''s gaze towards the Li Family heir changed.


    Seeing the change in everyone''s expressions, Li Ziye straightened his back and felt extremely happy. He had said that bringing this little red hat along was the right decision.


    "Young Master Li, please!" The crowd made way and their attitudes changed, their thoughts constantly flashing.


    What did it mean for Bai Wangyu, a senior brother of the Confucian School, to come?


    Could it be that the Confucian School was also standing on the side of the Li Family? Wasn''t it said that the Confucian School summoned the Li Family heir to question him just yesterday?


    Li Ziye looked at the changing expressions of everyone, his lips curved into a smile, and then walked towards the banquet.


    The three of them took their seats, with Bai Wangyu and Li Youwei sitting on either side of Li Ziye, their positions clearly distinguished.


    Seeing this, everyone present became even more shocked.


    "Young Master Li, let''s continue discussing the cooperation." One of the Zhangsun Family''s stewards spoke up with a friendly attitude.


    "Alright!" Li Ziye decisively agreed and then looked at the woman beside him, whispering softly, "Sister Youwei, how should we negotiate?"


    "Ask for exorbitant prices and negotiate from there."


    Li Youwei whispered back, "In short, give the three families some hope, but don''t really promise them anything. Try to divide them as much as possible."


    "Sounds reliable!"


    Li Ziye gave a thumbs up and then looked at the representatives of the three parties, smiling, "Let''s begin."


    "Young Master Li, the Merchant Alliance still hopes to cooperate with the Li Family in the business of soap and perfume. As for the profit distribution, it will be a fifty-fifty split. The Li Family will provide the formula, and the Merchant Alliance will provide the connections. It''s a mutually beneficial cooperation!" The representative of the Merchant Alliance spoke with a sincere expression.


    "Nineteen!" Li Ziye picked up a cup of tea and casually shouted.


    "Pfft!"


    The representatives of the other two families sprayed out the tea in their mouths, looking at each other in surprise.


    The representative of the Merchant Alliance''s face turned extremely ugly and said, "Young Master Li, the Merchant Alliance sincerely wants to discuss cooperation. Please take it seriously."


    "I am serious."Li Ziye took a sip of tea and said, "Soap and perfume, only my Li Family has the formula. As for connections, the Merchant Alliance has them, the Zhangsun Family and Yin Family have them too. My Li Family doesn''t necessarily have to cooperate with the Merchant Alliance. Everyone here is smart. Businessmen seek profit. Whoever can offer my Li Family a higher price, we will cooperate with them."


    As soon as he finished speaking, the representative of the Merchant Alliance looked even more upset, while the representatives of the Zhangsun Family and Yin Family Money House each had their own thoughts.


    They could clearly hear that Li Ziye was trying to divide their three families. However, they had to admit that Li Ziye''s words were very tempting.


    "Young Master Li, my Yin Family is very interested in the Li Family''s crystal business. How about this, the Li Family gets sixty percent, and my Yin Family gets forty percent." The representative of the Yin Family tried to show sincerity.


    "Hmm..."


    Li Ziye thought for a moment, then turned his gaze to the representative of the Zhangsun Family, "And you?"


    The representative of the Zhangsun Family was a middle-aged man. However, everyone present knew that the real helmsman of the Zhangsun Family''s business was the woman beside him.


    Dressed in a long dress, with a beautiful face and cascading black hair, she looked about thirty years old. She had the beauty of a young girl and the charm of a mature woman, attracting the attention of the men present. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Zhangsun Nanqiao, the third daughter of the Zhangsun Family, the biological younger sister of the current queen. Since her husband died ten years ago, she returned to the Zhangsun Family and never remarried. She was a deep thinker, a poisonous rose with thorns.


    "My Zhangsun Family wants the Li Family''s saltpeter ice-making and brewing techniques. As long as the Li Family is willing to part with them, the terms are negotiable."


    Everyone''s eyes were on her, the always silent Zhangsun Nanqiao finally spoke.


    As her words fell, everyone present looked at each other. This was a big appetite.


    She didn''t talk about cooperation, she directly wanted to buy the Li Family''s craft technology. This was like drawing the firewood from under the pot, truly ruthless.


    Even if they had the same idea, no one dared to say it out loud.


    "Refreshing."


    Li Ziye heard the woman''s words, smiled, and said, "If you want the Li Family''s craft, it''s not impossible. What price can the Zhangsun Family pay?"


    "What does Young Master Li want?"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao''s beautiful face showed a bright smile, "As long as Young Master Li wants it, my Zhangsun Family will do our best to satisfy."


    "I want!"


    Li Ziye stared at the woman in front of him and slowly said, "You!"


    "Pfft!"


    This time, not only the representatives of the three parties, but even Bai Wangyu, who was sitting next to him, spat out the tea in his mouth.


    In the banquet hall, the faces of the young women from various parties all showed disappointment. They didn''t expect that the legitimate son of the Li Family would be such a frivolous man.


    Only Li Youwei had no unusual reaction to this. Instead, she looked at Zhangsun Nanqiao very seriously, up and down, to see if she met the standard of a daughter-in-law of the Li Family.


    Hmm...


    Although she was a bit old, she was well maintained, with a large chest and buttocks, which was not bad.


    Li Ziye didn''t know the words of a wolf and tiger in his elder sister''s mind, otherwise, he would be thunderstruck.


    In the banquet hall, because of Li Ziye''s words, the whole scene became a bit weird.


    "Okay!"


    Just as everyone was tremblingly holding up their tea, ready to calm their shock, Zhangsun Nanqiao agreed with a smile on her face, "As long as the Li Family is willing to part with it, Young Master Li''s condition is not impossible to negotiate!"


    "Pfft!"


    So, everyone present spat out the tea in their mouths again.


    Could they still have a proper discussion?


    A business negotiation was turned into a romantic affair.


    However, after hearing Zhangsun Nanqiao''s words, the smile on Li Ziye''s face disappeared and he became serious.


    This woman was not easy to deal with.


    "Alright, jokes aside, I''m here to represent the Li Family."


    Li Ziye swept his gaze over everyone present and calmly said, "The Li Family indeed wants to find a partner, but only one. Whether it''s perfume, soap, or the crystal business, we can cooperate on all of them. As for the profits, my Li Family wants seventy percent!"


    "Seventy percent?"


    Everyone present was shocked when they heard this.


    This was too much.


    Even if the Li Family held all the crafts, they couldn''t be so greedy.


    "My words end here, everyone think carefully."


    After finishing speaking, Li Ziye didn''t care about the attitudes of the people present, he got up and was about to leave.


    "I''ll see Young Master Li off."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao also stood up and came forward to see him off.


    In the banquet hall, everyone''s faces darkened when they saw Zhangsun Nanqiao''s actions.


    Did Zhangsun Nanqiao really want to monopolize the Li Family''s business?


    In front of the apricot garden, Zhangsun Nanqiao and Li Ziye walked side by side. Bai Wangyu, who had no sense of propriety, was about to follow, but was pulled back by Li Youwei.


    "Learn to read the room." Li Youwei whispered.


    Bai Wangyu was stunned, didn''t refute, and silently followed behind.


    Ahead, Zhangsun Nanqiao looked at the young man beside her, her expression gentle, "Young Master Li, I heard that all these rare things from the Li Family were invented by you, is that true?"


    "No."


    Li Ziye denied it very simply, "Rumors, don''t believe them."


    Hearing this, Zhangsun Nanqiao not only didn''t feel disappointed, but a bright smile appeared on her face, "Young Master Li, actually, your condition just now can really be discussed."

 Chapter 27 – Zhangsun Nanqiao

    Outside the apricot garden, Li Ziye didn''t know how to answer when Zhangsun Nanqiao spoke.


    Are all women nowadays so rogue?


    "I''m still young, can you wait a few years?"


    Li Ziye''s face showed a shy expression and replied.


    "You''re not young anymore."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao looked up and down at the young man in front of him, smiled and said, "At seventeen, in our Great Shang Dynasty, you can already get married. So, Young Master Li, do you think I''m too old or do you dislike my widow status?"


    Li Ziye felt overwhelmed by her words. Why did he bother flirting with this woman for no reason!


    Seeing the embarrassed look of the young man in front of her, Zhangsun Nanqiao smiled and said, "Alright, I won''t tease you anymore. Let''s talk about cooperation. The Li Family''s business is of great interest to my Zhangsun Family. Young Master Li can propose a condition."


    "Didn''t I already say it at the banquet?" Li Ziye said.


    "Young Master Li, let''s not beat around the bush. The Li Family wants to take 70% of the profits, and none of the three families can accept that."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said seriously, "60%, that is the bottom line of my Zhangsun Family. The Li Family can take 60%, but the Li Family''s production process must involve members of my Zhangsun Family."


    "That''s impossible."


    Li Ziye directly rejected, "The Li Family''s production process will never involve anyone."


    "Young Master Li, don''t rush to refuse."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said calmly, "The Li Family has been doing these businesses alone for ten years. Many techniques are no longer a secret. Even if the Li Family protects them well, in a few years, these techniques will gradually be thoroughly studied by skilled craftsmen from various families. At that time, the advantage of the Li Family will no longer be an advantage."


    "Zhangsun sister also said that it will be a few years later."


    Li Ziye smiled brightly and said, "In a few years, it will be enough for my Li Family to expand the business several times. By then, even if other families have studied the Li Family''s techniques, my Li Family will have monopolized all the business channels of the Great Shang Dynasty. No matter how realistic the imitations are, people will only recognize my Li Family''s brand."


    "Do you really think that the court will let the Li Family develop so recklessly? You should know that a tall tree attracts the wind, don''t you?" Zhangsun Nanqiao said lightly.


    "I understand, so when the Third Prince gave the Li Family a choice, my Li Family came immediately."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "However, I know that the Zhangsun Family, the Merchant Alliance, and the Yin Family Money House do not belong to the same camp. My Li Family can choose the Zhangsun Family, or the Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao narrowed her eyes slightly and said, "Young Master Li is indeed observant, I admire that."


    "It goes both ways."


    Li Ziye said calmly, "Zhangsun sister should have heard that the Third Prince has recommended the Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House to me several times."


    "What the Third Prince can give you, my Zhangsun Family can also give."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao''s eyes flickered, and she said seriously, "Even more!" S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To be honest, I am more inclined towards the Zhangsun Family."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "After all, who wouldn''t want to spend more time with a beauty like Zhangsun sister? However, the conditions of the Zhangsun Family are unacceptable to my Li Family."


    "You already called me sister, can''t I make one more concession?"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao glanced at the young man in front of her and said, "In terms of profit distribution, the Li Family still takes 60%, and my Zhangsun Family takes 40%. As for the Li Family''s techniques, my Zhangsun Family won''t interfere. Is that acceptable?"


    "Well... I''ll consider it."


    Li Ziye laughed and said, "Perhaps the Yin Family Money House and the Merchant Alliance will accept my previous conditions!"


    "You!"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao paused for a moment, her chest heaving with anger, her charming appearance was so tempting.


    "Goodbye, Zhangsun sister. See you next time."


    Li Ziye was in a good mood after turning the tables. He waved his hand and walked away.


    Li Youwei and Bai Wangyu followed and left together.


    In front of the apricot garden, Zhangsun Nanqiao watched the figure of the young man in the distance for a long time. Suddenly, she burst into laughter, like a blooming flower, incredibly beautiful.


    This little guy is interesting.


    It''s been a long time since she met someone who interested her so much.


    When Li Ziye and the others returned to Li Garden, it was already sunset.


    Li Ziye continued to take a medicinal bath and endure the daily torture.


    After half an hour, Li Ziye came out, his legs trembling and unsteady.


    In the west wing, Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu sat on the stone steps in front of the room, looking at the moon in the sky, lost in thought.


    "Old Bai," Li Ziye spoke.


    "Yes?" Bai Wangyu replied.


    "You have such powerful cultivation and such an extraordinary identity, and you look..."


    As he spoke, Li Ziye looked at the little red hat beside him and couldn''t help feeling jealous.


    This kid actually looks pretty good.


    Under the moonlight, Bai Wangyu wore a white Confucian robe, with a heroic and righteous appearance, the favored child of heaven, the darling of the heavens.


    Feeling bitter, Li Ziye withdrew his gaze and said, "Don''t you have any worries?"


    "Worries?"


    Bai Wangyu thought seriously for a moment and said, "Yes."


    "What worries?" Li Ziye immediately became interested and asked.


    "The Sect Master and the Confucian Scholar said that with my comprehension, it won''t be a problem to reach the Fifth Realm, but it won''t be easy to cross the Five Realms," Bai Wangyu answered.


    "..."


    Li Ziye didn''t want to talk anymore.


    Cross the Five Realms? Others were already considering this problem, and he was still struggling in the early stage of the First Realm. He didn''t know when he would make progress.


    "Old Bai."


    "Yes?""I want to die."


    "......"


    The two of them chatted intermittently. In front of Bai Wangyu, Li Ziye finally understood what it meant to be envious of other people''s children.


    "Old Bai, do you really not know where my master is?" Li Ziye asked again.


    "I don''t know."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head, "With the cultivation level of Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, if she wants to hide her whereabouts, even the four masters would find it difficult to locate her. You can only ask the Confucian Scholar about this."


    "Confucian Scholar."


    Li Ziye was helpless. It was the Confucian Scholar again. The key point was, how could he meet the master of the Imperial Academy?


    "Brother Bai, have you ever met the Confucian Scholar?"


    Li Ziye asked curiously, "What kind of person is the Confucian Scholar?"


    "I''ve only seen him once."


    Bai Wangyu said softly, "Only the four masters can enter the Confucian Scholar''s courtyard. I was fortunate enough to see the Confucian Scholar once when I followed the Law Confucian Master. As for what kind of person the Confucian Scholar is, Brother Li will know if you have the chance to meet him. The Confucian Scholar is not an ordinary person, but a saint of this era."


    Li Ziye had a headache. To ask about Old Qin''s whereabouts, he had to meet the Confucian Scholar. But now, he couldn''t meet the Confucian Scholar, which was really a headache.


    Should he kidnap the eldest brother of the Confucian School and exchange him for his Fairy Master?


    Li Ziye looked at Bai Wangyu beside him and quickly dismissed this crazy idea.


    He couldn''t beat this guy.


    Feeling a bit tired from sitting, Li Ziye half-laid down on the stone steps, looking at the moon in the sky, and casually said, "Old Bai, does the Confucian School have any quick-learn martial arts? Teach me a couple of moves."


    "Quick-learn martial arts?"


    Bai Wangyu pondered upon hearing this, and after a long time, he said, "Yes, but the power is average. Brother Li, do you want to learn?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye immediately sat up and said, "Let me see."


    Bai Wangyu nodded, stepped forward, and drew his sword. Suddenly, the Taiyi Sword behind him was unsheathed, and the sword''s edge vibrated rapidly, forming more than ten afterimages, making it hard to distinguish between real and fake.


    The next moment, more than ten sword lights broke through the air, like meteors cutting through the night sky.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud noise, the moment the sword light passed, a huge rock in front of them shattered, and the fragments flew around, scattering all over the ground.


    Behind them, Li Ziye was so shocked that his mouth fell open, trembling as he said, "You call this average power?"


    "Yes."


    Bai Wangyu sheathed his sword and nodded, "It''s flashy but not practical. It''s not very useful when masters fight."


    Li Ziye felt as if he had been trampled by thousands of horses, and once again suffered a ten thousand point critical hit. This guy, why didn''t some angel sister take him away!


    "If Brother Li thinks it''s useless, then don''t learn it. After all, the Flying Immortal Technique that Brother Li practices is the number one technique in the world, and it''s not comparable to any martial arts." Bai Wangyu said seriously.


    "No, no, I''ll learn it, why wouldn''t I!"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye quickly stood up and said, "It''s always good to learn more. What''s this move called?"


    He didn''t know when he would be able to master his broken Flying Immortal Technique, so he had to learn something else first.


    "Wind Leaves a Trace."


    Bai Wangyu answered, then urged the Taiyi Sword, explaining every detail.


    Li Ziye was also very serious about learning on the side, afraid of missing any detail.


    About half an hour later, after Bai Wangyu patiently taught him over and over again, Li Ziye finally grasped the essence of this move.


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    "Haha, I did it!"


    Li Ziye looked at the Pure Jun Sword in front of him and laughed like a fool.


    On the side, Bai Wangyu wiped the sweat from his forehead and took a deep breath.


    Was this move difficult? He remembered that he had learned it after watching it once. Why did Brother Li have such a hard time learning it?


    Perhaps Brother Li was not suitable for learning the swordsmanship of his Confucian School.


    Bai Wangyu naturally found an excuse for Li Ziye in his heart. After all, how could someone who was favored by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal have poor martial arts talent?


    "Let''s go, Old Bai, I''m in a good mood today, I''ll treat you to some fun."


    After learning a move, Li Ziye was in a great mood. He put his arm around the other''s neck and walked towards the outside of Li Garden.


    He had been in the Capital City for a few days, and it was time to visit Second Brother and learn some news about the Yin family. He wanted to get the "Art of Heavenly Craftsmanship" as soon as possible.


    "Go, where to?"


    Bai Wangyu was still a bit uncomfortable with Li Ziye''s affectionate behavior and asked unnaturally.


    "Shi Hua Garden."


    Li Ziye said, "It''s a brothel."


    "Brothel?"


    Bai Wangyu''s expression changed slightly, "Brother Li, that''s not appropriate. I''m a disciple of the Confucian School, how can I go to such a place of pleasure?"


    "Is it written in the Confucian School''s rules?" Li Ziye asked.


    Bai Wangyu thought for a moment and shook his head, "No, it''s not."


    "That''s settled then."


    Li Ziye grinned, "Since there''s no rule, and you promised to listen to me before, let''s not waste any more words."


    After saying that, Li Ziye dragged him along, heading in the direction of Shi Hua Garden.

 Chapter 28 – Place of pleasure

    The night breeze gently brushed, the Xiang River was dripping, the flower boat docked in the river, and the flowers competed for beauty by the river.


    Shi Hua Yuan, a famous place for fireworks on the Xiang River, where high-ranking officials and nobles come and go, spending a hundred gold coins in one night just to win a smile from a beautiful woman.


    When the moon rose on the branches, Li Ziye dragged Bai Wangyu and walked into Shi Hua Yuan.


    In Shi Hua Yuan, there was singing and dancing. On the high platform of the first floor, four dancing girls danced gracefully with pipa in their hands, their figures graceful and their bodies half-hidden, making people dry-mouthed.


    "Young masters, please come in. Do you like any of the girls?"


    As soon as the two entered, a heavily made-up woman approached, holding a painted fan, looking at them with a smile on her face.


    "This is our first time here, no need for small talk. Hurry up and find two clean girls. My brother here doesn''t like ordinary rouge and powder. And of course, we can''t forget about the silver."


    Li Ziye confidently took out a large ingot of silver and handed it to the woman, arrogantly saying.


    "Young master is truly generous!"


    The flower girl couldn''t stop smiling when she saw the silver in her hand. She looked back and shouted, "Quickly, bring Xinghua and Lihua to entertain our distinguished guests!"


    "Xinghua, Lihua?"


    Li Ziye almost burst out laughing when he heard these two names.


    Couldn''t they have chosen better stage names?


    "Brother Li!"


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu looked nervously at the lively scene around him, sweating on his face. He said, "Let''s go."


    "What''s the rush?"


    Li Ziye pulled him to sit down at an empty table and smiled, "We''ve come all this way, we should relax a bit before going back."


    "Young masters, we''re here!"


    At this moment, two women with enchanting figures walked down from the second floor, their bodies swaying and twisting with every step, almost breaking their waists.


    "Young masters, take a look. How about them?"


    The flower girl led the two girls forward and smiled.


    "Clean girls?"


    Li Ziye looked at the two seductive women in front of him and asked suspiciously.


    "Young master, rest assured, they are definitely untouched maidens."


    The flower girl said with a smile on her face.


    Li Ziye looked skeptical but didn''t ask any more questions. He couldn''t ruin his own business, could he? He glanced at the two women and then pointed to the little red hat beside him, grinning, "Ladies, please accompany my brother here. You won''t be short of silver."


    "Yes."


    Xinghua and Lihua heard this and exchanged glances, then sat down next to Bai Wangyu, their bodies clinging to him like water snakes.


    "Ladies, this is improper. Men and women should not be so intimate. It goes against etiquette."


    Bai Wangyu, surrounded by the two women, felt uncomfortable and said anxiously, dodging and speaking in a panic.


    Li Ziye saw this and felt even more relaxed.


    You always have that calm and indifferent face. Now, are you panicking?


    Even other people''s children have their days like this!


    "Haha!"


    Li Ziye felt even more cheerful and couldn''t help but laugh.


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    "Young master, what about you? Don''t you want to find a girl to accompany you?"


    The flower girl saw that the young man in front of her was the one with the money. She smiled even more flatteringly on her heavily made-up face and asked.


    "No rush, let''s wait."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "I heard that Yu Qingxuan, the unparalleled beauty of the capital city, will perform at Shi Hua Yuan tonight. Is it true?"


    "It is indeed true."


    The flower girl smiled and said, "Miss Qingxuan is on her way and will be here soon."


    "That''s good."


    Li Ziye replied and then picked up his wine glass and quietly drank, not wanting to say anything more.


    The flower girl saw this and wisely didn''t disturb him anymore. She gave a signal to the two girls on the table, indicating that they should serve the distinguished guest, and then turned and left.


    The first floor became more and more lively. Obviously, besides Li Ziye, many people had also heard the news that Fairy Qingxuan would come to Shi Hua Yuan tonight.


    As the famous flower of the Great Shang Capital, Yu Qingxuan''s identity was extremely mysterious. No one knew her background. Since her stunning dance in the flower competition three years ago, all the noble young masters in the capital city had gone crazy for her. They spent all their money but couldn''t win a smile from her.


    On the second floor, in each private room, the most distinguished guests of the capital city were sitting, also waiting for Yu Qingxuan to appear.


    And on the third floor of Shi Hua Yuan, there was only one person, dressed in a silver-gray wide robe, looking down at the crowd below, his handsome face showing no ripples.


    Younger Brother!


    Li Qingzhi stared at the figure of the young man on the first floor, and a rare warmth appeared in his cold and indifferent expression. After a moment, it disappeared.


    It was only natural for him to come here before Yu Qingxuan appeared at Shi Hua Yuan. It wouldn''t arouse suspicion from others.


    "Ding!"


    At this moment, on the second floor, the sound of a qin playing, like celestial music, rang out. With just one sound, the entire Shi Hua Yuan fell silent.


    Like weeping and complaining, urgent and rapid, on the second floor, in the private room facing the stairs, the bead curtains swayed, and a graceful figure appeared and disappeared, leaving a breathtaking glimpse of her beautiful face.


    Dressed in green, with her hair tied up, her eyebrows and eyes were picturesque, her temperament was elegant, as if a fairy had descended to the mortal world, without a trace of worldly aura.


    Gradually, on the second floor, the sound of the qin became faster and faster, like the explosion of a silver bottle, with thousands of troops and horses galloping past.


    "Excellent!"


    All the guests on the first floor were intoxicated by the music and couldn''t help but cheer loudly.


    "Ten Sides Ambush?"


    Li Ziye was first stunned, then he curled his lips and muttered in a low voice, "It sounds just like that. Why use an ancient qin for a beautiful pipa piece?"


    "Clang!"


    The sound of the qin suddenly stopped, as if clothes were being torn, so abrupt.


    All the guests on the first floor also froze, and the place instantly fell silent.


    At this moment, Li Ziye muttered in a low voice, but everyone heard it.Behind the beaded curtain on the second floor, Yu Qingxuan suddenly stood up, her gaze fixed on the young man on the first floor who had attracted everyone''s attention, her face showing a look of shock.


    It''s him!


    "Where did this greenhorn come from? Does he understand music at all, daring to spout such nonsense here?"


    On the first floor, many wealthy young masters, hearing someone slander the fairy in their hearts, angrily rebuked.


    "Pretending to understand when he doesn''t, he''s not afraid of biting his tongue!"


    "Who is this, does anyone know him? He''s not afraid of losing face!"


    "Where''s the servant boy? Throw him out!"


    One person started the tirade, and the others echoed. Immediately, the first floor hall was filled with curses and reprimands. Clearly, Li Ziye''s previous evaluation of Fairy Qing Xuan''s zither skills had provoked public anger.


    On the second floor, laughter echoed from the private rooms, as they watched the stranger on the first floor who had incurred the wrath of the crowd, their faces showing a playful look. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Which family''s greenhorn is this? He really dares to say anything.


    "Your Highness, he is the third son of the Li Family."


    In one of the private rooms, a soft voice reminded.


    "Oh? The legitimate son of the Li Family?"


    Behind the half-drawn curtain, a man who looked about thirty years old spoke, his tone curious.


    The man''s appearance was quite ordinary, compared to the other princes of Great Shang, he was somewhat plain. A thick blanket covered his knees, indicating some problem with his legs.


    Prince Muyuan, the eldest prince, was born with a disability in both legs and could only move around in a wheelchair. If he were the son of an ordinary concubine, such a prince would have no chance of inheriting the throne.


    However, the mother of the eldest prince came from a prominent family, and coupled with his status as the eldest son of the royal family, even with his disability, he still had many followers.


    Behind Muyuan stood an older eunuch named Zhao Jie, who had been with Muyuan for over a decade. He was a well-known expert in the royal family.


    "Your Highness, should your old servant invite him up?" Zhao Jie asked.


    "No need."


    Muyuan shook his head and said, "Let''s wait and see. I also want to see what''s so special about this legitimate son of the Li Family."


    "Yes!"


    Zhao Jie responded lightly, then stood quietly without saying more.


    In the hall on the first floor, Li Ziye looked at the excited crowd, his expression slightly stunned.


    Was it necessary? He had just spoken the truth, and these people were so agitated, as if they wanted to eat him alive.


    Fanatics, no matter the era, were always so terrifying.


    "I remember now, he is Li Ziye, the son of Li Baiwan from Yuzhou City!"


    At this moment, among the many young masters on the first floor, someone finally recognized Li Ziye''s identity and shouted.


    "Li Baiwan? That nouveau riche?"


    "No wonder, what kind of insight can a son of a nouveau riche have!"


    "A country bumpkin who has never seen the world, making a fool of himself here."


    Once Li Ziye''s identity was revealed, the crowd''s laughter rang out again, so timely.


    The young masters of the capital, at this moment, once again felt the superiority of their status, their chins raised so high that their nostrils were almost visible.


    "El... Elder Brother."


    Amid the rising and falling laughter, suddenly, a young nobleman noticed the white-robed scholar entangled by two women. He was first taken aback, then his face showed a look of shock, and he exclaimed, "Elder Brother, why are you here?"


    As soon as his words fell, everyone''s gaze instinctively turned to the white-robed young man next to Li Ziye. After a moment, their expressions were all shocked.


    Was this Bai Wangyu, the first disciple of the Confucian School?


    Surrounded by pear and apricot blossoms, Bai Wangyu saw the shocked gazes around him, his face showed a touch of embarrassment, and he nodded to the crowd.


    "Elder Brother, why are you here?"


    A student from the Imperial Academy stood up, his face full of disbelief, and asked.


    "I came with Brother Li."


    Bai Wangyu answered awkwardly.


    "Brother Li?"


    The student from the Imperial Academy was taken aback, then looked at Li Ziye, who had just provoked public anger, his fists clenched and his face growing angrier.


    This man actually brought Elder Brother to such a place!


    Elder Brother was the pride of their entire Imperial Academy.


    Li Ziye felt the murderous gazes of the crowd and couldn''t help but touch his nose. These people, they came to the brothel for pleasure, but they didn''t allow others to do the same?


    On the second floor, in the private rooms, pairs of eyes watched the situation below, waiting for the drama to unfold.


    The legitimate son of the Li Family actually brought the Elder Brother of the Confucian School to this place of pleasure. They wondered what the expression of the Confucian School''s leader would be when he heard about this.


    Seeing the crowd on the first floor becoming more and more agitated, Yu Qingxuan, behind the beaded curtain on the second floor, suppressed the waves in her heart and said, "Young Master Li, would you like to join me on the second floor?"


    As soon as her words fell, all the noise in the hall on the first floor immediately disappeared. The silence was somewhat terrifying, so quiet that one could hear a pin drop.


    Everyone was shocked and took a while to recover.


    "Fairy''s invitation, I would be rude to refuse!"


    Li Ziye grinned, then stood up and walked towards the second floor.


    However, just as he had climbed three steps, Li Ziye stopped, turned around to look at the crowd on the first floor, grinned, and said, "A bunch of country bumpkins!"

 Chapter 29 – Chat with the oiran about life

    "Damn it!"


    "A country bumpkin like him dares to mock us!"


    "Nouveau riche, get out of the capital city!"


    "Fairy Qing Xuan, this person is extremely wicked, be careful!"


    In the first-floor lobby, because of Li Ziye''s words, the atmosphere once again became heated. The young masters of the prestigious families couldn''t wait to get up and kill this nouveau riche from Yuzhou City.


    "Heh!"


    Li Ziye replied with an extremely arrogant and disdainful smile, then turned around and walked upstairs.


    In the first-floor lobby, everyone gritted their teeth in anger, but they didn''t want to lose their grace in front of Fairy Qing Xuan, so they refrained from taking action.


    On the second floor, Li Ziye walked over, directly lifted the bead curtain, and entered the private room.


    Their gazes met, and Yu Qingxuan looked at the young man in front of her. A hint of nervousness rose in her usually calm heart.


    She had been searching for the owner of the pipa score for a long time, and she didn''t expect to find him here.


    "Ten Sided Ambush" is a pipa score, not a qin score. Only the owner of the score would know this because she had modified it to be played on the guqin. So, even those who understood music theory for many years couldn''t tell.


    Inside the private room, the atmosphere was very quiet. Yu Qingxuan''s gaze revealed her nervousness.


    However, Li Ziye wasn''t very interested in the woman in front of him. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He came here to find Second Brother.


    If it weren''t for this woman calling him out in front of so many people, he wouldn''t have come up.


    "Hey, little girl, what do you want from this young master?"


    Li Ziye didn''t want to have too much entanglement with the woman in front of him. With a smirk on his face, he revealed the qualities of a playboy and asked.


    Yu Qingxuan was taken aback but quickly regained her composure. She bowed gracefully and said, "I apologize for inviting Young Master Li up here. Please forgive me."


    "No need to apologize."


    Li Ziye said arrogantly, "What''s the matter? Speak."


    Yu Qingxuan, despite feeling uncomfortable with the young man''s attitude, maintained a calm demeanor and said softly, "Young Master Li, may I ask how you knew that the piece I played earlier was a pipa score and not a qin score?"


    "Just a guess."


    Li Ziye grinned.


    Could he say that he had memorized the score of "Ten Sided Ambush"?


    Of course not!


    He had already stood out so much that some mentally unstable people had started to suspect that he was the one who invented those peculiar things in the Li Family. If it was confirmed that this score also came from him, he would truly be speechless.


    It would be best not to reveal his identity as the legitimate son.


    He understood the saying that the taller the tree, the stronger the wind.


    "Young Master, Qing Xuan didn''t mean any harm. She just wanted to find the owner of this pipa score and personally express her gratitude," Yu Qingxuan said earnestly.


    "Then you''ve got the wrong person. This young master doesn''t understand music theory at all."


    Li Ziye smirked, "But this young master understands life very well. Little girl, the night is long and sleepless. Do you want to chat about life together?"


    Yu Qingxuan frowned and looked at the young man in front of her, trying to see something from his face.


    However, she was disappointed.


    Li Ziye''s face revealed nothing but a smirk.


    "Young Master Li."


    Yu Qingxuan gently clenched her hands, suppressing her discomfort, and said, "Please behave yourself. Qing Xuan is not the kind of person you imagine."


    "What a pity!"


    Li Ziye looked up and down at the woman in front of him and couldn''t help but admit that she was quite attractive.


    Feeling invaded by his gaze, Yu Qingxuan became even more uncomfortable. She said, "Young Master Li, it''s getting late. It''s better for you to leave."


    "Go back? No way."


    Li Ziye immediately shook his head and said with a strange smile, "It hasn''t even been fifteen minutes yet. It''s too soon. I can''t leave so quickly. It would be embarrassing."


    Whether it was fast or not, the main issue was that there were too many people on the first floor, and if he went out like this, those guys would definitely attack him.


    He had to let Little Red Riding Hood block the angry crowd for him.


    Seeing the rascal-like appearance of Li Ziye, Yu Qingxuan''s impression of him worsened. She suppressed her anger and said, "If Young Master Li doesn''t leave, then Qing Xuan will."


    "Outrageous!"


    Li Ziye saw her reaction, put down his teacup, and shouted.


    Yu Qingxuan trembled, looking at the person in front of her with anger and disbelief in her almond-shaped eyes.


    How could this person be so shameless?


    "Sit down and let''s talk."


    Li Ziye grinned, "Otherwise, I''ll keep shouting."


    Yu Qingxuan''s body trembled, and after a long time, she reluctantly suppressed her anger, put down the guqin, and sat down.


    Li Ziye smiled and didn''t say anything. He drank his tea and passed the time.


    He planned to wait until the people downstairs became impatient and left before going out.


    He just didn''t know if he still had a chance to see Second Brother.


    Tonight''s plan had been somewhat disrupted. He didn''t expect to be disturbed by this woman.


    Li Ziye remained silent, and the atmosphere became quiet again. Yu Qingxuan sat there, her expression changing several times.She couldn''t imagine that the Third Young Master of the Li Family would be such a shameless person.


    If that''s the case, then the qin score in front of her must not have been written by the person in front of her. She believed that the person who could write such a stunning qin score must not be an ordinary person.


    As time passed, no one in the private room spoke, and the atmosphere became more and more awkward.


    On the table, Li Ziye had finished drinking the pot of tea, but not much time had passed. There were still many people on the first floor.


    Unexpectedly, it was already very late outside, but the young masters and ladies on the first floor were still waiting in the lobby with red eyes and gritted teeth.


    They were waiting for the Li Family''s young master to come out, and then they would skin him alive and tear him apart!


    On the second floor, Li Ziye clearly felt the resentment from the first floor, so he naturally couldn''t go out. Seeing that the tea on the table was finished, he looked at the woman in front of him and grinned, "Is there any more tea?"


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    "No!"


    Yu Qingxuan gritted her silver teeth and replied.


    "Little girl."


    Li Ziye opened his mouth, about to say something else, but he felt the killing intent in the woman''s eyes in front of him, so he immediately changed his address and said, "Miss Yu, right? Look, you called me up here and made me the target of everyone''s criticism. You should take some responsibility, shouldn''t you?"


    "What does Young Master Li want?"


    Yu Qingxuan could hardly suppress her anger and said.


    "Well..."


    Li Ziye thought for a moment and said, "Do you have any Potent Medicine?"


    "No!"


    Yu Qingxuan gritted her teeth and replied.


    "What about the Ten Thousand Years Cold Iron?"


    Li Ziye continued to ask.


    "No!"


    Yu Qingxuan angrily replied.


    "Why don''t you have anything?"


    Li Ziye said disappointedly.


    Upon hearing this, Yu Qingxuan''s chest heaved up and down, her silver teeth clenched tightly, and the last trace of her sanity was about to disappear.


    "Alright, give me ten thousand Potent Medicines, and I''ll forgive you!"


    Li Ziye said casually.


    "Bang!"


    Finally, unable to bear it any longer, Yu Qingxuan slapped the table and stood up, her body trembling violently, and said, "You, you!"


    Li Ziye was startled and said, "Why are you so angry? If you don''t agree, you can negotiate. Isn''t doing business about making outrageous demands and bargaining? Why get so angry?"


    Yu Qingxuan closed her eyes, took a few deep breaths, and said, "Young Master Li, goodbye, we may never meet again!"


    After speaking, Yu Qingxuan picked up the guqin beside her and turned to leave through the door behind the box.


    "Fairy, don''t go, hey! Hey, have some manners."


    Li Ziye shouted twice, then shook his head helplessly.


    Forget it, let her go.


    "What''s that? Fairy Qingxuan''s carriage! Fairy Qingxuan has left!"


    At this moment, someone in the lobby on the first floor saw Yu Qingxuan''s carriage leaving from the front of the Shihua Garden and exclaimed.


    "Fairy Qingxuan!"


    Suddenly, in the lobby on the first floor, everyone chased after her, their expressions full of disappointment.


    "Old Bai! Let''s go!"


    Seizing the rare opportunity, Li Ziye immediately went downstairs and grabbed Bai Wangyu, and they mixed into the chaos and left the Shihua Garden.


    "Li Ziye!"


    In the chaos, someone saw the two of them and angrily shouted, "Don''t let him escape, everyone, catch him!"


    As soon as the words fell, everyone noticed the two of them and crazily chased after them, with foul language ringing in their ears.


    Li Ziye was not one to suffer losses, so while running, he turned around and cursed at the group of people.


    Then, the large group of people chasing after them became even more crazy, like they had taken chicken blood, desperately chasing after them.


    The Xiangshui River, which had already quieted down, suddenly became extremely lively.


    As the night grew darker, Li Ziye dragged Bai Wangyu through one street after another. Behind them, fewer and fewer people were able to keep up.


    "A bunch of country bumpkins, trying to catch up with me, don''t they know their own strength?"


    After passing through two more streets, Li Ziye saw that no one was following behind, so he couldn''t help but stop and bend over, gasping for breath.


    So tired!


    "Brother Li."


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu also took a deep breath, with lingering fear in his heart, and said, "We shouldn''t go to such places in the future."


    "It was an accident."


    Li Ziye touched his nose and said awkwardly, "I didn''t expect that the music score I casually wrote back then would end up in Yu Qingxuan''s hands."Li Qingzhi nodded, not dwelling on the topic, and changed the subject, "You''re looking for me because you want to ask about the Yin family, right?"


    "Mm."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye became serious and said, "Second Brother, is everything going smoothly with Yin Kuang?"


    "The person has been arranged into the Yin family."


    Li Qingzhi calmly said, "However, the thing you want is in the Yin family''s treasure house. With his current status and ability, it''s hard to get it."


    "If we could also enter the Yin family, we could cooperate from within and outside, and the possibility of success would be much greater." Li Ziye said in a deep voice.


    Li Qingzhi thought for a moment and said, "To enter the Yin family, there is a way."


    "Second Brother has a way?" Li Ziye asked in surprise.


    "In a few days, it will be the sixtieth birthday of the old master of the Yin family. At that time, Yu Qingxuan will go to perform."


    Li Qingzhi calmly said, "If you want to enter the Yin family, you can ask Yu Qingxuan for help."


    "Cough, cough!"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye was suddenly choked by his own saliva and started coughing violently.


    Why didn''t you say it earlier!


    He had already offended Yu Qingxuan thoroughly last night. Let alone asking for help, Yu Qingxuan probably doesn''t even want to see him now!

 Chapter 30 – Continue to find the oiran to chat about life

    Li Yuan, when the rooster crowed at dawn, Li Ziye disappeared again.


    In the southeast of the capital city, the quietest place in the entire city, it seemed to be isolated from the hustle and bustle. There were no luxurious mansions of the nobles, nor magnificent places for fireworks.


    There were only the daily lives of the common people.


    And in one of these inconspicuous places, in an equally inconspicuous small courtyard, a woman watered the flowers and plants early in the morning, and then went out for morning exercises.


    Yu Qingxuan had a weak body when she was young, and the doctor asked her to exercise more. So, over the years, the habit of morning exercises has been maintained.


    The noble sons and daughters of the capital city never expected that their fairy lived in such an inconspicuous place.


    But Li Ziye knew.


    Because Li Qingzhi told him.


    "Miss Yu, what a coincidence!"


    By the Xiangshui River, Yu Qingxuan, dressed in green, was about to start her morning exercises when she heard that annoying voice behind her.


    Yu Qingxuan turned around and saw Li Ziye, who was wearing sportswear, running towards her under the sunlight. His face was bright and his smile was beautiful, making him look so delicate and attractive.


    Unfortunately, Li Ziye''s impression in Yu Qingxuan''s heart had become extremely bad.


    So, when she saw Li Ziye, Yu Qingxuan didn''t say a word and turned to leave.


    "Miss Yu, Fairy Yu, don''t go, let''s talk about life... no, let''s talk about music, let''s talk about poetry!"


    Li Ziye ran after her, constantly hovering around Yu Qingxuan, with a flattering smile on his face.


    "Young Master Li, I have something to do, let''s talk another day."


    Yu Qingxuan said and quickly walked away, trying to get rid of the annoying fly in front of her.


    Li Ziye still didn''t know that he had been treated like a fly by someone, and he continued to pursue her without caring, saying, "Miss Yu, I came to apologize to you. It''s all Bai Wangyu''s fault. He insisted on taking me to the Flower Garden and forcing me to drink. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have been drunk and rude. Miss Yu, please forgive me."


    "Achoo!"


    In Li Yuan, in the west wing, Bai Wangyu, who had just walked out of the door, sneezed twice in a row.


    Caught a cold?


    Bai Wangyu looked puzzled. Since he started practicing martial arts, he hadn''t caught a cold for many years.


    What happened today?


    In the southwest of the capital city, by the Xiangshui River, Yu Qingxuan looked at the shameless young man in front of her and felt more and more disgusted.


    Who didn''t know what kind of person the senior brother of the Confucian School was? This person actually dared to splash dirty water on others without any shame.


    "Young Master Li!"


    Yu Qingxuan stopped and said seriously, "I have no relationship with Young Master Li. Whether you forgive me or not is meaningless. Why do you insist on bothering me?"


    "We do have a relationship, why would we not have a relationship?"


    Li Ziye hurriedly said, "Aren''t you looking for the owner of ''Ambush from Ten Sides''? Yes, I wrote it!"


    Yu Qingxuan frowned and asked, "What are the Twelve Tones? What are the Seven Tones?"


    Li Ziye was stunned and asked, "What do you mean?"


    Yu Qingxuan became even more impatient and said, "Young Master Li doesn''t even know the common knowledge of music, how could he write such a stunning music score as ''Ambush from Ten Sides''?"


    Li Ziye looked bitter. He didn''t study ancient music theory. How could he know these things?


    He just had a good memory and could remember things he had seen once.


    He just casually flipped through the music score of "Ambush from Ten Sides". As for the knowledge of music theory, who would deliberately study it?


    He didn''t know that there would be an exam!


    This question was obviously beyond the scope.


    "Young Master Li, if you can''t answer, please stop bothering me."


    Yu Qingxuan said and walked away again.


    Li Ziye rubbed his hair hard, with a bitter smile on his face, but he didn''t give up and continued to follow her.


    It seemed difficult to restore his impression in Yu Qingxuan''s heart!


    He had gone too far last night. He didn''t expect to have to ask for something from this little courtesan.


    In front, Yu Qingxuan walked briskly for a long time and found that Li Ziye was still following her. Her anger became harder to suppress.


    Why was this person so persistent!


    After fifteen minutes, when she was about to return to her place, Yu Qingxuan had to stop and turn around to look at the young man behind her. She said in a deep voice, "Young Master Li, what exactly do you want to do?"


    "I don''t want to do anything, I just want to be friends with Miss Yu."


    Li Ziye grinned. Of course, he couldn''t mention his intention to go to the Yin family now.


    "Young Master Li is noble, while Qingxuan is just a common woman. It''s impossible for me to climb up to your level. Young Master, please go back."


    Yu Qingxuan said in a serious tone.


    "People are equal in the world. There is no distinction between high and low. Although Miss Yu is in the mortal world, she can stand alone and remain pure, which is much nobler than those who talk about benevolence and righteousness but do all kinds of evil things."


    Li Ziye flattered her, almost using up all the words he knew, just to establish a good relationship with Yu Qingxuan.Sure enough, Yu Qingxuan''s expression showed surprise when she heard the former''s unique insight into social status.


    Equality among people?


    It was the first time she had heard someone say such words.


    Li Ziye saw the expression on the woman''s face and knew that what he said had worked. He quickly searched for words in his mind and said, "Miss Yu, I come from a merchant family, and my status is not considered noble either. However, I have never thought of myself as inferior. As the saying goes, ''The king is like a boat, and the people are like water. Water can carry a boat, but it can also overturn it.'' Therefore, in life, there is no distinction between high and low. High and low are all in people''s hearts."


    Brilliant!


    Li Ziye finished speaking and felt satisfied.


    It had been a long time since he had spoken so boldly!


    "Do you really think so, Young Master Li?"


    Yu Qingxuan said softly, her heart in turmoil as she looked at the young man in front of her. At this moment, she seemed to no longer understand this ever-changing young man.


    High and low are all in people''s hearts! This sentence truly touched her heart.


    She knew that although countless noble and wealthy young men had pursued her over the years, they only cared about her appearance and her body. They still looked down upon her identity as a woman of the world.


    This was the distinction between high and low in the world, deeply ingrained and impossible to change.


    "Of course."


    Li Ziye nodded vigorously and said, "Miss Yu, as we spend more time together, you will come to know that I am a person of consistent words and actions, with a good character. I am careful not to harm even the lowliest of ants and cherish the moth that flies into the lampshade. Last night, I had a bit too much to drink, which led to my disrespectful words to you, Miss."


    Amitabha Buddha, brothers of the bandits from the underworld, I apologize for endangering your lives, even though you are neither ants nor moths.


    "Let''s forget about what happened last night."


    Yu Qingxuan, kind-hearted, didn''t want to dwell on it any longer and said softly.


    "Really!"


    Li Ziye''s face lit up with joy as he reached out and grabbed the woman''s hand in front of him. Excitedly, he said, "Thank you, Miss Yu, thank you!"


    Yu Qingxuan''s expression changed, and just as she was about to break free, a voice of anger sounded from nearby.


    "Young Master Deng! Let go of Fairy Qingxuan!"


    Before the words had even finished, a young man who looked about fifteen or sixteen years old rushed over with an angry expression. With thick eyebrows and big eyes, he ran up to the two of them in three or four steps and pushed Li Ziye away, angrily saying, "Who do you think you are, daring to bully Fairy Qingxuan? Be careful, I''ll have my father kill you!"


    "May I ask who your father is?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback and asked.


    "My father is the Eastern King, one of the Ten Martial Kings!"


    The young man looked up and said.


    "The Eastern King?"


    Li Ziye''s expression froze. Another prince of a Martial King? When did the Eastern King of Great Shang become so worthless that people would mention them wherever he went?


    Wasn''t this bullying?


    "Are you scared? If you''re scared, leave quickly, or I''ll make you regret it!"


    The Eastern King''s son, Wu Duoduo, stood with his hands on his hips, looking arrogant and telling Li Ziye to leave.


    "Son, Li Ziye didn''t bully me. It was just a misunderstanding earlier."


    On the side, Yu Qingxuan saw the misunderstanding intensify and couldn''t bear it. She explained.


    "Fear not, Fairy Qingxuan. With me here, he won''t dare to bully you again!"


    Wu Duoduo turned his head and showed the most handsome smile he thought he had, saying.


    He was certain that Fairy Qingxuan wouldn''t dare to offend this Young Master Deng, which was why she said that.


    Finally, the time for him to be a hero had come!


    "Young brat, you have courage!"


    Li Ziye raised his thumb and praised him.


    To dare to be a hero in front of him, it seemed that his role as a villain hadn''t been successful enough.


    Thinking of this, Li Ziye grinned and took a step forward.


    "What are you going to do?"


    Wu Duoduo was startled and instinctively took two steps back, saying.


    "What am I going to do?"


    Li Ziye''s face showed a sinister smile, and he reached out and lifted the young man in front of him. With a menacing look in his eyes, he said, "So you''re the Eastern King''s son, huh? Dare to meddle in front of me, I''m tired of living. Be careful, I''ll throw you into the river!"


    "You... let go of me!"


    Wu Duoduo trembled at the terrifying appearance of the person in front of him, struggling continuously, and said in fear, "Otherwise, my father won''t let you off." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But you also need to have the chance to meet your father."


    Li Ziye looked around and grinned, saying, "No one around, it''s a really good place!"


    After speaking, Li Ziye carried the young man and headed towards the river.


    "Help! Help me! I don''t want to go down!"


    Wu Duoduo''s body trembled, and a strong sense of fear rose in his heart. He shouted desperately.


    "Scream all you want, even if you scream your throat hoarse, no one will come to save you!"


    Li Ziye said arrogantly.


    On the side, Yu Qingxuan realized that Li Ziye was just scaring the Eastern King''s son and couldn''t help but show a helpless expression.


    This Third Young Master of the Li Family''s temperament was really... all over the place.


    By the Xiangshui River, Li Ziye carried Wu Duoduo and approached with a sinister smile on his face. He said in a chilling tone, "Are you going down by yourself, or should I throw you down?"


    "Help... help me, I... I don''t want to go down!"Wu Duoduo was so scared that he was on the verge of tears, trembling as he spoke.


    "Not going down?"


    Li Ziye gave a chilling smile, saying, "Are you still playing the hero to save the beauty?"


    "No... I''m not."


    Find the original at ".


    Wu Duoduo trembled as he spoke.


    "Really not going to save her?"


    Li Ziye asked again.


    "I''m not."


    Wu Duoduo said with a hint of a sob in his voice.


    "No backbone, not even a bit of persistence."


    Li Ziye showed a look of disinterest, casually tossed him aside, and threw him to the riverbank.


    With a "thud", Wu Duoduo landed on his butt, looking at the unfathomable river in front of him, he was so scared that he almost wet his pants.


    "Miss Yu, let''s go."


    Li Ziye turned around and walked forward, looking at the woman in front of him, he revealed a grin showing eight teeth, and said, "I have a song ''Guangling San'' that I want to dedicate to you, it''s definitely not inferior to the pipa score in your hands."


    Upon hearing this, Yu Qingxuan''s eyes flashed with surprise, and she nodded, saying, "Then I look forward to your visit, Young Master Li."


    "Mm."


    Li Ziye responded, looking back at Wu Duoduo on the shore, he grinned again.


    This brat, daring to compete with him!


    Feeling the threat in Li Ziye''s gaze, Wu Duoduo was so scared that he immediately retracted his gaze.

 Chapter 31 – The most handsome is still the eldest senior brother

    In the southeast of the capital city, Xiang River flowed through a small courtyard. Li Ziye held a pen and wrote the score of Guangling Melody on a stone table.


    "Great handwriting!"


    After finishing writing, Li Ziye looked at his masterpiece on the table and couldn''t help but praise himself.


    Beside him, Yu Qingxuan looked at the score, not paying attention to the crooked handwriting, but carefully reading the music. A look of shock gradually appeared on her beautiful face.


    Guangling Melody!


    There actually exists such a stunning score in the world.


    Waves surged in Yu Qingxuan''s eyes, difficult to suppress.


    With such high attainments in this music, once it is revealed, there will be no more competition in the world of music scores.


    If it spreads out, who knows how many musicians will go crazy for it!


    On the side, Li Ziye looked at the shocked expression of the woman beside him and felt very satisfied.


    This is the correct way to open up!


    He is the true son of the plane, how could he be inferior to that Huo Lin''er or Bai Wangyu.


    Can they write Guangling Melody? Can they recite Tang poems and Song lyrics? Can they even pick up soap... no, invent soap?


    "Young Master Li."


    After a while, Yu Qingxuan came back to her senses and her face became complicated. She said, "I cannot accept this Guangling Melody. This score is invaluable. It is enough for Qingxuan to see it with her own eyes."


    "Miss Yu, don''t be polite. I promised to give it to you, so I will definitely give it to you."


    Li Ziye took the score and handed it to her, grinning. "Moreover, we are already friends. Why bother with so much? Unless you don''t want to be friends with this nouveau riche."


    "It''s not that."


    Yu Qingxuan''s expression froze, looking at his determined attitude, she couldn''t help but sigh lightly and bowed gracefully. She said, "Then Qingxuan thanks Young Master Li for his generous gift."


    "That''s right."


    Li Ziye smiled satisfactorily and said, "Miss Yu, now that we are already friends, you don''t have to call me Young Master Li. It creates distance. Just call me Ziye."


    "Zi... Ziye."


    Yu Qingxuan called out, feeling awkward.


    "Qingxuan."


    Li Ziye took advantage of the situation and climbed up, smiling. "Do you practice by the Xiang River every morning?"


    "Yes."


    Yu Qingxuan nodded gently and said, "When I was young, I had poor health, and the doctor suggested that I exercise more. So, this habit has been retained."


    "That''s a coincidence. I also practice swordsmanship every morning. How about practicing together?" Li Ziye suggested.


    "Is Li Garden close to here?" Yu Qingxuan asked in doubt.


    "Very close."


    Li Ziye grinned.


    It''s very close, both are in the capital city of Great Shang.


    One in the east of the city, one in the west. Even if they run, it would only take half an hour.


    "Alright."


    Yu Qingxuan didn''t doubt it either. After thinking for a moment, she nodded and agreed.


    This Young Master Li could write such an extraordinary score as Guangling Melody, showing his amazing talent. If she doesn''t understand something, she can also ask him for advice.


    In the small courtyard, a gentle breeze blew. Yu Qingxuan''s long hair flew up, and a faint fragrance entered Li Ziye''s nose, refreshing his mind.


    Then, Li Ziye instinctively took a deep breath.


    Openly and shamelessly, such a rogue behavior!


    Yu Qingxuan was startled, but quickly regained her composure. Her face instantly turned red.


    The two of them didn''t say anything, and the atmosphere became somewhat ambiguous for a while.


    "Detuzi, come out!"


    Just at this moment, an urgent voice sounded outside the courtyard, breaking the romantic atmosphere between the two.


    Li Ziye became angry!


    Can''t they pick the right timing!


    Can''t they see that I''m making friends!


    Outside the courtyard, a group of people arrived, holding sticks in their hands. The leader was none other than Wu Duoduo, the Crown Prince of Donglin, who had just been beaten by Li Ziye.


    At this moment, Wu Duoduo''s face was full of anxiety, afraid that his beloved fairy would be bullied.


    Yu Qingxuan came to the front of the courtyard, looked at the situation outside, frowned slightly, and showed an unpleasant expression. She asked, "Prince, what are you trying to do?"


    "Fairy Qingxuan, I came to save you. Have you been bullied by that Detuzi?" Wu Duoduo anxiously asked.


    Behind Yu Qingxuan, Li Ziye walked out and looked at the young man in front of him, grinning. "Prince of Donglin, haven''t you heard recently? There is also a Prince Wu who likes to cause trouble. I beat him! His name seems to be Chen Yifei."


    "Prince!"


    Behind Wu Duoduo, a young man''s expression changed when he heard this. He quickly stepped forward and whispered, "He is Li Ziye from Yuzhou City."


    "Li Ziye?"


    Hearing this name, Wu Duoduo trembled. Wasn''t he the one who beat the Crown Prince of Xuanwu?


    After a brief shock, Wu Duoduo suppressed his fear and said, "Don''t be afraid of him, we have more people!"


    "Why bother?"


    Li Ziye''s smile on his face became even brighter. He said, "Actually, the people brought by Chen Yifei are more than you!"


    He can handle this level of small fry by himself.


    If he couldn''t defeat those who knew martial arts, could he still not defeat these idle playboys?


    "Oh, Wu Duoduo, you''re here too!"


    Just as Li Ziye was about to perform another heroic feat of fighting a group of people alone, a very annoying voice sounded not far away, even more annoying than Wu Duoduo.


    A young man dressed in brocade robe walked over, holding a folding fan in his hand. A touch of gloom flashed across his pale face. Behind him were two men, all dressed in embroidered golden robes, with extraordinary aura.


    "Chen Yifei!"


    Wu Duoduo''s expression changed slightly when he saw the newcomer. How did he come too?At this moment, Li Ziye''s face became serious, but his gaze did not fall on Chen Yifei, but on the two men behind him.


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    Experts!


    "Li Ziye, we meet again!"


    Chen Yifei glanced at the people present, then shifted his gaze to the young man in front of him and said lightly.


    "Prince Xuanwu, you really don''t give up."


    Li Ziye''s expression turned cold and he said, "It seems that the lessons I gave you before were not enough."


    "Hmph!"


    Chen Yifei closed his folding fan and sneered, "Today, it''s not certain who will teach whom a lesson."


    After speaking, Chen Yifei looked at Wu Duoduo beside him and said, "Prince Donglin, it seems that you also have grievances with Li Ziye. How about we join forces?"


    "No need."


    Wu Duoduo glanced at the two men behind Chen Yifei, shook his head, and refused, "I won''t interfere in your grievances."


    With that, Wu Duoduo turned around and prepared to leave with his people.


    "Be careful."


    As Wu Duoduo and Li Ziye passed each other in front of the courtyard, Li Ziye''s lips moved slightly as he whispered a reminder, "Those two are Xuanwu King''s embroidered guards, they are very strong."


    "Thank you."


    Li Ziye''s expression slightly condensed as he nodded in response.


    This Prince Donglin is not as annoying as he thought.


    As playboys, they still have their differences.


    At least, he is much more upright than Chen Yifei, who is also a prince.


    Chen Yifei looked at the departing Prince Donglin with a disdainful expression and ignored him. His gaze was fixed on the young man in front of him, whom he had been thinking about for days. In a cold tone, he said, "Li Ziye, if I don''t cripple you today, I won''t share the same surname as you!"


    "I don''t have a son as big as you!"


    Li Ziye replied in a deep voice, his true qi surging in his body, ready to make a move at any time.


    It seems that there will be trouble today. Xuanwu King''s embroidered guards are at least at the late stage of the first realm. If there was only one, he could barely handle it. But now that there are two, he doesn''t have much hope of winning.


    However, he cannot retreat.


    "Young Master Li."


    Beside Li Ziye, Yu Qingxuan''s face showed a hint of nervousness. She tightly clenched her delicate hand and a thin layer of sweat appeared on her face.


    "You should step back, Qingxuan!"


    Li Ziye whispered, then took a step forward and stood in front of Yu Qingxuan. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In normal times, it''s just a joke, but at this moment, if he doesn''t stand up, he won''t even be considered a man.


    "Still thinking of being a hero at this time."


    Chen Yifei sneered, "Rest assured, after I cripple you, I will take this beauty for myself and enjoy her slowly!"


    Yu Qingxuan trembled, a hint of panic flashed in her beautiful eyes, and she instinctively grabbed the hem of the young man in front of her.


    "What are you waiting for, attack!"


    Chen Yifei looked at the two men behind him and said coldly.


    "Yes, Young Master!"


    The two embroidered guards glanced at each other, then stepped forward.


    In an instant, a powerful true qi surged around the two of them. The divine hidden technique in their chests roared, fully displaying their cultivation at the late stage of the first realm.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye''s eyes narrowed slightly. The divine hidden technique in his chest also began to roar, and a continuous flow of true qi surged out. However, the difference in cultivation was so obvious.


    The Flying Immortal Art doesn''t focus on cultivation, and coupled with the fact that Li Ziye has only opened one meridian, his cultivation speed is impressive, but he is still in the early stage of the first realm.


    For the first time, Li Ziye deeply felt the pressure of being behind in cultivation!


    He needs power, powerful power.


    Otherwise, he won''t even be able to protect the people around him.


    In the next moment, the two embroidered guards made their move, their figures moving extremely fast, instantly rushing forward.


    Li Ziye took a step forward, about to activate the Flying Immortal Art, but suddenly, his body froze and his gaze turned towards the west.


    "Whoosh!"


    At this moment, in the distance, a sword aura soared into the sky. A ancient sword came through the air, filled with righteousness, spanning one hundred meters.


    With a clang, the ancient sword landed, directly sending the two embroidered guards flying.


    In the shocked gazes of Li Ziye and Chen Yifei, a young man in a white Confucian robe walked towards them. He walked steadily, with a handsome face and a calm expression. He exuded a strong righteousness and sharpness.


    In short, he was handsome!


    Li Ziye looked at Bai Wangyu''s entrance and almost cried.


    You even pretended to be!


    From a hundred meters away, Bai Wangyu had already arrived. His seemingly unhurried pace was actually astonishingly fast.


    "Brother Li, are you okay?" Bai Wangyu looked at the young man in front of him and asked with concern.


    "I''m fine."


    Li Ziye gritted his teeth and replied, somewhat puzzled, "How did you know I was here?"


    "Miss Li told me. She said you might be in danger and asked me to come and take you back." Bai Wangyu replied.


    "Sister Youwei?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback, then understood.


    There are many spies from the Li Residence in the capital city. It must have been Sister Youwei who noticed the abnormality of Prince Xuanwu and sent this little red hat to come.


    "Bai Wangyu!"


    In front of the courtyard, Chen Yifei looked at the senior brother from the Confucian School who had disrupted the situation and said angrily, "Are you also going against the Xuanwu King''s residence?"


    "Going against them?"


    Bai Wangyu looked surprised, drew out the Taiyi Sword from the ground, and turned around to ask, "Is it serious?"


    Li Ziye almost burst into tears.


    Such a domineering presence!


    People are incomparable, and how can this little red hat be so handsome!


    "You!"


    Chen Yifei was choked with anger and wanted to explode, but he didn''t dare.The man before them was the senior brother of the Confucian School, a person of high status and impressive cultivation. The two embroidered guards he brought with him were no match.


    "Let''s go!"


    A wise man knows when to retreat. Chen Yifei suppressed the anger in his heart, gave a low shout, and immediately turned to leave.


    The two embroidered guards followed without uttering a word, not daring to linger for a moment longer.


    "Prince, remember to ask Xuanwu King when you get home if he''ll allow you to take my surname, Li!"


    In front of the small courtyard, Li Ziye watched the three men leave in a sorry state, taunting them.


    Turn around, turn around, let Little Red Riding Hood finish you off!


    Ten steps away, Chen Yifei stumbled slightly, clenched his fists, took a deep breath, and walked away.


    He swore not to rest until he had his revenge!


    Seeing this, Li Ziye was somewhat disappointed. Why didn''t he turn around?


    After sending off the prince of Xuanwu King, Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu didn''t linger any longer. After bidding farewell to Yu Qingxuan, they headed towards Li Garden in the west of the city.


    "Old Bai."


    On the way back, Li Ziye was quiet for a long time before he spoke.


    "Hmm?"


    Bai Wangyu responded.


    "I want to see the Confucian Scholar."


    Li Ziye said softly. Only by meeting the Confucian Scholar could he find out the whereabouts of his Fairy Master.


    His Fairy Master had come to the Capital City to get him the King of Medicine. And he, only by obtaining this King of Medicine, could rebuild his second meridian in the shortest time.


    If he wanted to become stronger, he had to open all eight meridians as soon as possible. Otherwise, he would encounter situations like today''s in the future.


    The waters of the Capital City were too deep. Just a prince of Xuanwu King was already so troublesome, what if Xuanwu King himself had taken action today?


    He wasn''t always so lucky to have a benefactor like Little Red Riding Hood to rescue him.


    His fate couldn''t always be in the hands of others!


    Living off others was not a long-term solution.


    After hearing Li Ziye''s words, Bai Wangyu''s expression became slightly serious. "It''s very difficult to see the Confucian Scholar."


    "I know, so I hope Brother Bai can help."


    Li Ziye said calmly, "As long as I can see the Confucian Scholar, I''m willing to pay any price!"


    Bai Wangyu was silent for a long time before nodding. "I''ll go back to the Imperial Academy and plead with the Law Confucian Master to pass on a message for you. However, I can''t guarantee whether you''ll be able to see the Confucian Scholar in the end."


    "That''s enough, thank you!"


    Li Ziye looked into the distance, his hands tightly clenched, and replied.

 Chapter 32 – Breaking through

    Imperial Academy, east side, a quiet courtyard.


    As autumn approached, the flowers and vegetables in the courtyard withered.


    Nevertheless, the old man still watered the garden every day, day after day, year after year.


    In fact, no one in the Imperial Academy or even in the Great Shang could say how many years the old man had lived, but one day, he disappeared from the Imperial Academy.


    "Oh? Did Li Ziye really say that?"


    In the courtyard, Kong Qiu heard the words of the Confucian Scholar, and a peaceful smile appeared on his aged face. He said, "It seems he''s a bit impatient."


    "Do you want to see the Confucian Scholar?"


    The Confucian Scholar asked in a solemn voice.


    "Not yet."


    Kong Qiu shook his head, picked up the wooden box on the stone table beside him, and casually threw it over, saying, "Give this to your disciple."


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    "Yes!"


    The Confucian Scholar respectfully bowed and then turned to leave.


    "He''s gone, you can come out now."


    After the Confucian Scholar left, Kong Qiu looked towards the wooden house and spoke.


    "Thank you, Confucian Scholar."


    Qin E''nuo walked out and said softly.


    "I was planning to wait for Li Ziye to enter the Imperial Academy before giving him the Fo-Ti Root, but since he came to me on his own, I''ll give it to him in advance."


    A faint smile appeared on Kong Qiu''s aged face as he said, "Besides, exchanging a divine medicine for a year of Plum Blossom Sword Immortal''s time is worth it."


    "There''s something I don''t understand."


    Qin E''nuo said seriously, "Why does the Confucian Scholar look at Li Ziye differently?"


    "He''s different."


    Kong Qiu said slowly, "Actually, the rumors in the world are true. All those rare things from the Li Family were created by Li Ziye."


    "That can only mean he''s intelligent. Although there aren''t many talented people in the world, there are still quite a few. Being intelligent alone wouldn''t make the Confucian Scholar look at him differently." Qin E''nuo said calmly.


    "You are his master. Haven''t you noticed any differences between him and the people of this world?" Kong Qiu smiled and said.


    "Different from the people of this world?"


    Upon hearing the Confucian Scholar''s words, Qin E''nuo''s face showed a pensive expression. What did he mean by that?


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, although you have opened five divine hidden techniques and reached the pinnacle of martial arts in the mortal world, your eyes are still inevitably influenced by this vast world, unable to see the true nature of heaven and earth."


    Kong Qiu looked up at the sky and said, "What do you think is above this sky?"


    "Above the sky?"


    Qin E''nuo frowned and glanced at the sky, saying, "Above the sky is just heaven, right?"


    "What is heaven?" Kong Qiu continued to ask.


    "Heaven?"


    Qin E''nuo furrowed her brows. The answer to this question was too ethereal and had no definite conclusion.


    "Actually, I''ve thought about these questions for a long time and still haven''t found the answers."


    Kong Qiu smiled lightly and said, "Until I saw the birth of Li Ziye."


    "Li Ziye? What does he have to do with it?" Qin E''nuo asked in confusion.


    "When he was born, he broke the rules that concealed this world. At that moment, I was able to see the true heaven and earth beyond this sky."


    Kong Qiu gazed at the sky and said, "It was beautiful, although it was only a moment, it was the most beautiful sight I have ever seen in my life."


    "What do you mean, Confucian Scholar?"


    Qin E''nuo was shocked by the Confucian Scholar''s words and asked, "Li Ziye is not from this world?"


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, indeed intelligent."


    Kong Qiu nodded and a trace of light flashed in his aged eyes as he said, "He came from another world and was born in this world. So, when he appeared, the rules that concealed this world became chaotic, allowing me to see the world beyond this realm through the dense fog."


    "I see."


    Qin E''nuo''s mind was even more shocked. All along, she had felt an inexplicable sense of disharmony from Li Ziye, but she couldn''t explain what caused this disharmony.


    So, he wasn''t from this realm.


    No wonder his words and actions were always astonishing, and he never cared about the rules and etiquette of this world.


    If what the Confucian Scholar said was true, then all these unusual feelings could be explained.


    But such a shocking thing was truly hard to believe.


    "Confucian Scholar."


    Thinking of this, Qin E''nuo suppressed the waves in her heart and looked at the old man in front of her, saying, "Besides the Confucian Scholar, does anyone else know about this?"


    "There shouldn''t be."


    Kong Qiu shook his head and said, "The scholar from the Divine Oracle Temple in the Western Regions might be able to see some, but at that time, his cultivation was not as strong as it is today, so he couldn''t see much."


    "The master of the Divine Oracle Temple in the Western Regions, Fu Jinglun."


    Upon hearing the term "scholar," Qin E''nuo knew who the Confucian Scholar was referring to.


    That scholar who had once studied in the Central Plains, well-versed in poetry and books.


    No one had expected that the scholar would eventually go to the Western Regions and become the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple.


    From a scholar well-versed in literature to a charlatan full of teachings, Fu Jinglun''s choice had shocked the world.


    "Speaking of which, it seems that scholar also studied at the Imperial Academy."


    Kong Qiu smiled and said, "He was truly formidable. In just over twenty years, he achieved such accomplishments. Initially, I thought he was the one who could change this world, but later I realized I was wrong. Fu Jinglun''s talent and intelligence are indeed extraordinary, but he is not the right person."


    In the end, Fu Jinglun was still a person of this world. No matter how broad his horizons were, he couldn''t escape the constraints of this realm.


    "Change this world?"


    Qin E''nuo furrowed her brows and asked, "What''s wrong with this world?"


    "A prison."


    Kong Qiu said calmly, "Everyone in this prison is confined, unable to see the vastness of heaven and earth, their hearts narrow, only concerned with temporary gains and losses, constantly engaged in wars that have lasted for thousands of years. That''s why I have been waiting for someone who can change this world to appear."


    And there was one more thing he didn''t say, and couldn''t say.


    For over a hundred years, that feeling in his heart had grown stronger and stronger, until the moment the legitimate son of the Li Family was born, he finally confirmed it.


    The sky above the Nine Provinces was about to change!Night was approaching, and with it, the longest winter in history. It was clear that the chaos of the Nine Provinces was inevitable.


    "Does the Confucian Scholar believe this person is Li Ziye?"


    Qin E''nuo asked in confusion, "Although he is different from others, he is too weak. It''s hard for him to even protect himself, let alone change the world."


    "Force is not the only solution to problems."


    Kong Qiu picked up the watering can and watered the flowers in the garden, saying, "Before the third son of the Li Family was born, the Li Family was just an ordinary merchant family. After the birth of the third son, who invented those rare things, the wealth of the Li Family has made the Great Shang Dynasty court wary in just ten years. This is something that force cannot achieve."


    "But absolute force is ultimately the most effective way to solve problems."


    Qin E''nuo said seriously, "Even if Li Ziye is special, without strong power, he cannot truly change the world, because he will encounter countless people who obstruct him. Among them, some people are so powerful that they are almost invincible, like Fu Jinglun."


    "Indeed." S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kong Qiu nodded and said, "The problem you mentioned does exist. Therefore, from the moment you accepted the third son of the Li Family as your disciple, I have been waiting for you."


    "Waiting for me?"


    Qin E''nuo was taken aback, and after a moment, she was shocked, "Did the Confucian Scholar know that I would come to the Imperial Academy to get the thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root?"


    Could the head of the Confucian School see so far into the future?


    "His eight meridians are blocked. Without the Medicine King, it would take many years to unblock them all with the power of ordinary potent medicine. You can''t wait."


    Kong Qiu said calmly, "So, you will definitely come."


    "I admire the wisdom of the Confucian Scholar!"


    Qin E''nuo bowed in salute, admiration showing on her beautiful face.


    At least, she couldn''t see as far as the Confucian Scholar.


    Kong Qiu smiled faintly and said, "I''ve just lived longer. You should wait in the Imperial Academy for a few days. The day when the third son of the Li Family comes to the Imperial Academy is not far off."


    ¡­¡­


    "Is the Confucian Scholar still unwilling to see me?"


    In Li Garden, Li Ziye looked at Bai Wangyu, who had just returned from the Imperial Academy, and said disappointedly.


    "Yes."


    Bai Wangyu nodded and said, "The head of the Law Confucian School has conveyed Brother Li''s words, but the Confucian Scholar said it''s not the time yet."


    "Not the time yet?"


    Li Ziye was puzzled, "What does that mean? When will it be the time?"


    Do all the wise men speak so cryptically? I don''t understand. Can''t they be more explicit?


    "I don''t know either."


    Bai Wangyu looked apologetic and said, "Even the head of the Law Confucian School cannot disobey the words of the Confucian Scholar. So, Brother Li, you should wait a little longer."


    "That''s all I can do!"


    Li Ziye sighed deeply, then turned around to go back to the inner courtyard.


    "By the way, Brother Li, the Confucian Scholar asked me to give you this."


    At this moment, Bai Wangyu took out a wooden box from his bosom and handed it over.


    Li Ziye was taken aback, took the wooden box with a puzzled look, and opened it directly.


    "A thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root!"


    Seeing the twisted and ugly lump of wood in the box, Li Ziye was shocked and exclaimed.


    Bai Wangyu also turned his gaze, and even his usually calm expression flashed with envy.


    He knew about this thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root. It was one of the rare treasures of the Imperial Academy, extremely precious. The Confucian Scholar actually gave it as a gift, which showed how much he valued Brother Li.


    Li Ziye quickly recovered, his face showing joy, and his mood instantly improved a lot.


    "Old Bai, don''t gasp when you speak in the future. If you had taken it out earlier, wouldn''t it have been better? You made me disappointed for so long."


    Li Ziye put away the wooden box, then patted the shoulder of the little red hat in front of him, and said with a serious tone.


    "Brother Li''s lesson is right."


    Bai Wangyu nodded, accepting it humbly.


    "Go back and rest, I''m going to find Old Zhang."


    Li Ziye was very satisfied with the little red hat''s attitude of admitting his mistake. He gave an order, then happily walked towards the inner courtyard.


    "Old Zhang!"


    He hadn''t taken two steps before Li Ziye shouted loudly, "Get up and work!"


    Soon, in the inner courtyard, the little maids were bustling around, the large wooden barrel in the pharmacy was steaming, and a large amount of potent medicine was poured in.


    Li Ziye took off his outer clothes and stepped into the medicine barrel.


    "Hold on!"


    In front of the medicine barrel, Slovenly Zhang said solemnly, then crushed the thousand-year-old Fo-Ti Root in his hand.


    The next moment, five Divine Hidden Techniques on Slovenly Zhang''s body revived at the same time. The rumbling sound was faintly audible, the light of the Divine Hidden Techniques was as brilliant as stars, and his astonishing cultivation was undoubtedly revealed.


    Sword Enthusiast made a move, his fingers forming a sword, and the sword qi was incredibly powerful. With one sword, he forcibly shattered a large meridian in Li Ziye''s body.


    At the same time, Slovenly Zhang condensed his Genuine Qi again, continuously infusing the essence of the thousand-year-old Medicine King into Li Ziye''s body.


    "Ah!"


    Intense pain surged like a tide, Li Ziye''s body trembled violently, and blood dripped from the corners of his mouth, staining the water red.


    In the west wing, Bai Wangyu felt the strong Genuine Qi fluctuations in the inner courtyard, his expression slightly condensed.


    There was an extraordinary powerhouse of the Fifth Realm in the mansion.


    "Boom!"


    At this moment, in the pharmacy of the inner courtyard, a violent impact erupted, shattering the medicine barrel, blasting open the door, and water splashed all over the sky. A young man, soaked to the skin, was kneeling on the ground, panting heavily.


    In front of the young man, the slovenly old man was also in a very embarrassing state, drenched all over, his wet hair sticking to his face randomly, without any of the demeanor of an extraordinary powerhouse.


    "The second meridian!"


    The young man was kneeling on the ground, his fists clenched. He was one step closer to breaking through all eight meridians.


    "Huh?"


    In the west wing, Bai Wangyu was about to withdraw his gaze when his expression suddenly changed, showing surprise.


    Breaking through!


    At this moment, the inner courtyard, which had returned to calm, suddenly had a violent surge of spiritual energy from heaven and earth. It was like a raging wave, continuously pouring into the pharmacy from all directions.

 Chapter 33 – Zhangsun Nanqiaos proposal

    Li Garden, inner courtyard, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth surged and crazily poured into the pharmacy.


    Inside the pharmacy, Li Ziye''s body trembled, and the small world of divine hidden technique in his chest flashed with lightning and thunder. The sea of true essence surged and endless spiritual energy of heaven and earth poured in, making the sea of true essence even more vast.


    Opening up the second meridian, Li Ziye''s speed of absorbing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth was more than twice as fast. Coupled with the accumulation of daily practice, he finally made a breakthrough and advanced his cultivation.


    Mid-stage of the first realm of martial arts. In the instant of breaking through, Li Ziye clearly felt the sharp increase in the strength of his true essence in his divine hidden technique, and even his perception ability of divine sense also increased.


    "Familiarize yourself with your body!"


    Slovenly Zhang spoke and casually waved his hand. The pure Jun ancient sword flew over and landed in front of Li Ziye.


    Li Ziye looked at his own hands, then reached out and drew out the ancient sword. With a step forward, he leaped out.


    The sword qi whistled and crisscrossed. In the inner courtyard, Li Ziye''s figure kept flashing, with residual images flying around. Eighteen steps, completed in one breath.


    On the last step, Li Ziye''s figure stood still, holding the sword in both hands and slashing down with momentum.


    "Boom!"


    The three-foot sword edge was invincible. In front of Li Ziye, a stone table was shattered, split in half from the middle.


    "Clap! Clap! Clap!"


    Outside the pharmacy, Slovenly Zhang clapped his hands and stepped forward, showing a satisfied expression. He said, "Finally made some progress, not in vain of my old man''s hard work."


    "Old Zhang, am I amazing? Teach me the third move!" Finally being praised once, Li Ziye felt a bit proud and said.


    "Are you sure?" Slovenly Zhang''s expression suddenly became strange when he heard this, and he asked.


    "What''s wrong? Is it not okay?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "It''s okay, of course it''s okay."


    Slovenly Zhang''s mouth curved slightly, not refusing either. He waved his hand, held the sword, and moved quickly. The sword technique was fierce and domineering, opening and closing widely. Within twenty-seven steps, it fully displayed its dominance.


    After the demonstration, Slovenly Zhang put away the sword, raised his head and took a sip of wine, smiling but not smiling. He said, "Practice it. Once you master this third move, no one in the second realm will be your match. Even if you really encounter a strong opponent like the Third Prince who has opened the second divine hidden technique, you will be able to retreat unscathed."


    "So powerful!"


    Li Ziye''s face showed a pleasantly surprised expression. Soon, he felt something was wrong and asked, "Didn''t you say that even if the difference in cultivation is only one realm, it is impossible to cross over with exquisite moves?"


    "There are always exceptions to everything."


    Slovenly Zhang''s smile became strange as he said, "The reason why the Flying Immortal Art is known as the number one technique in the world is because the first generation Sword God used this sword technique to defeat opponents who were one realm higher than him more than once."


    Speaking up to this point, Slovenly Zhang''s tone paused slightly, and his smile gradually became twisted unconsciously. He grinned and said, "Let me put it this way, there is basically a simple one-to-two relationship between the five realms of martial arts and the nine moves of the Flying Immortal Art. For example, if you are still in the first realm, at most you can only use the first two moves of the Flying Immortal Art. It is like daydreaming to practice the third move that belongs to the next realm, because without entering the second realm, whether it is the strength of true essence or the control ability of the body, it is not enough to support you to complete these twenty-seven steps. Of course, the Sword God from a thousand years ago did it, so he could cross one realm to fight against enemies. If you think you can do it too, then give it a try."


    "I don''t believe it."


    Li Ziye gripped the sword and looked at the footprints on the ground, feeling resentful.


    Who do you think you are looking down on!


    Li Ziye circulated his true essence and bravely took three steps forward.


    And then...


    "Old Zhang, help!"


    In the high-speed movement, Li Ziye''s body flew out uncontrollably and before he could ask for help, he collided head-on with the high wall of the inner courtyard.


    "Bang!"


    Li Ziye''s half face and his whole body directly crashed into the wall, forming a big character, and then fell straight down.


    "Oh, what happened? Don''t hit the wall if you can''t take it!"


    Slovenly Zhang walked up, looked at the youth who fell in a mess, grinned and said, "Work hard, my old man believes in you."


    After speaking, Slovenly Zhang laughed heartily and left with the wine jar.


    Li Ziye lay on the ground, gritting his teeth in hatred. This was too much bullying!


    "Young Master!"


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    Just at this moment, outside the inner courtyard, a beautiful little maid walked quickly. Seeing Li Ziye lying under the wall, she was first startled, then forcibly suppressed her smile and said, "There is a girl named Zhangsun Nanqiao outside the mansion, specifically looking for Young Master." S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Zhangsun Nanqiao? Looking for me?"


    Li Ziye, with a face covered in mud, showed a hint of surprise. How did that vixen come here? And she specifically asked for him? Doesn''t she know that the Li Family''s business is managed by Sister Youwei?


    The enemy obviously wants to undermine our resistance from within!


    Is he the kind of person who is easily tempted by beauty?


    Li Ziye felt resentful in his heart and jumped up, saying, "Bring her to the main hall. I''ll change my clothes and meet this female demon."


    "Yes!"


    The little maid pursed her lips and smiled, then turned and left.


    Not long after, Zhangsun Nanqiao, wearing a crimson purple long dress, walked towards the main hall. Her hair was tied up high, and her black hair cascaded down, showing both the beauty of a young girl and the charm of a mature woman.


    It has to be said that Zhangsun Nanqiao was a very captivating woman.


    In the inner courtyard, Li Ziye changed his clothes, tidied up his appearance, and returned to the appearance of a humble young master as he walked towards the main hall.


    "Why did Sister Nanqiao come in person?"


    Li Ziye walked into the main hall in three steps and made two strides. Looking at the woman in front of him, he spoke affectionately, "If you want to visit, I should be the one visiting Sister Nanqiao!"


    Hearing the young man''s more intimate address, Zhangsun Nanqiao''s lips curved slightly, and she said, "I had nothing to do today, so I wanted to come to Li Garden to take a look. Li Young Master, I wonder how you have considered my previous proposal?"


    "Proposal?"


    Li Ziye heard this and showed a puzzled expression on his face. "What proposal?"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao narrowed her eyes and smiled, "It''s about the cooperation between the Zhangsun Family and the Li Family. Young Master, haven''t you forgotten about it?"


    "Do you think I have such a bad memory!"Li Ziye suddenly understood, but his face showed a troubled expression. He said, "Elder Sister Nanqiao, you may not know this, but although I am the legitimate son of the Li Family, all business matters are handled by my elder sister. During the last meeting with the four families, I was merely there to gain some experience."


    "Young Master Li, let''s not beat around the bush."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao revealed a bright smile and said, "Although Li Youwei is in charge of the Li Residence''s business, I believe that in this Li Garden, you are the real master, possessing absolute authority. As long as you speak up, the cooperation between the Li Family and the Zhangsun Family will naturally fall into place."


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, you really think highly of me."


    Li Ziye picked up the hot tea on the table, took a sip, and smiled, "The tea is good, you should try some."


    Upon hearing this, Zhangsun Nanqiao slightly furrowed her brows, picked up the tea on the table, took a sip, and said, "Indeed, it''s good. I remember that the Li Family''s tea business has spread to every city in the Great Shang, even the Western Regions and Desert North have started to have Li Family''s shops."


    "Is that so? I don''t usually pay much attention to business matters, so I''m not very clear." Li Ziye responded with a smile.


    Zhangsun Nanqiao chuckled and said, "Young Master Li, you haven''t answered my question yet."


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, please don''t put me in a difficult position."


    Li Ziye gave a bitter smile and said, "If I meddle in the Li Family''s business, it would make things difficult for my elder sister."


    "You really are a tough nut to crack."


    A hint of helplessness flashed across Zhangsun Nanqiao''s beautiful face. After a moment, she collected her thoughts and smiled, "I heard that Young Master Li is still unmarried. Would you like me to introduce someone to you?"


    "I think Elder Sister is quite good."


    Li Ziye started to flatter her again, laughing.


    "If Young Master Li is willing, I have no objections."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao responded with a charming smile.


    "I''m still young, let''s wait a few more years."


    Li Ziye said shyly.


    "You''re not young anymore."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao glanced at the young man''s legs and said meaningfully.


    Li Ziye''s smile froze on his face. What a rogue!


    "I heard that Young Master Li has been getting close to that little courtesan recently. Be careful, I heard that she has a complicated background. Don''t let others use you." Zhangsun Nanqiao changed the subject and warned.


    "Are you talking about Yu Qingxuan?"


    A strange light flashed in Li Ziye''s eyes. He asked, "Elder Sister Nanqiao, could you be more specific?"


    "It''s said that Yu Qingxuan has met with the Crown Prince several times, and the night she appeared in the Flower Garden, the Crown Prince was also there." Zhangsun Nanqiao revealed.


    "The Crown Prince?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye furrowed his brows and said, "I''ve never met the Crown Prince, how could he use me?"


    "Young Master Li is the legitimate son of the Li Family, and the Li Family behind you is rich enough to rival a country. If I were the Crown Prince, I would definitely try to win you over."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao smiled and said, "If he could get the support of the Li Family, his future path to the throne would be much smoother."


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, don''t make wild guesses."


    Li Ziye took a sip of his tea and said lightly, "The succession to the throne is the Emperor''s business. The Li Family is just an ordinary merchant family. We don''t want to, and don''t have the ability to meddle in the succession."


    "Although the Li Family is currently just a merchant family, if Young Master Li wants to go further, my Zhangsun Family can help."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao finally revealed her intentions, looking at the young man in front of her and said seriously, "Young Master Li should know about my Zhangsun Family''s influence in the court. As long as you agree, the Li Family can immediately transform from a merchant family to a noble family. The difference between the two, you should understand better than anyone else."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye fell silent.


    This condition indeed hit the Li Family''s weak spot.


    The scholar, farmer, worker, and merchant, the scholar-officials in the court were at the top of the Great Shang, while the merchant families were at the bottom.


    This was the biggest obstacle the Li Family had encountered in its development.


    There was no one in the court!


    Therefore, the Li Family could only be considered a merchant family, not a prestigious family.


    Li Ziye seriously considered Zhangsun Nanqiao''s proposal, weighing the pros and cons.


    Zhangsun Nanqiao didn''t rush him, sitting quietly there, sipping her tea.


    She knew that the Li Family would definitely consider her proposal carefully.


    She was quite confident about this.


    Sure enough, not long after, Li Ziye lifted his head, a bright smile on his face.


    Seeing this, a smile also appeared on Zhangsun Nanqiao''s face.


    Success!


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, I''ve decided to become a Sword Immortal. The official career is not for me." Li Ziye said with a beaming smile.


    Upon hearing this, Zhangsun Nanqiao was taken aback, and the smile on her face gradually disappeared.

 Chapter 34 – Swindler

    When Li Yuan, the eldest grandson of Nanchiao, left, his face was far less attractive than when he arrived.


    Li Ziye''s refusal to yield made Nanchiao very angry.


    Soon, the news of Li Yuan''s defeat spread to the Yin Family and the Merchant Alliance.


    The three families were not originally united, and with the Li Family''s business being a piece of fat that everyone wanted a bite of, the three families were even more at odds.


    If possible, all three families wanted to swallow the opportunity to cooperate with the Li Family and completely suppress the other two families.


    Late at night, a big fire blazed in the Merchant Alliance, illuminating half the imperial city as bright as day.


    In Li Yuan, Li Ziye, who was practicing swordsmanship under the moonlight, saw the distant fire and a dangerous curve formed at the corner of his mouth. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Over at Second Brother''s place, they finally began to take action.


    The timing was just right!


    The next day, before dawn, half the imperial city was in chaos.


    The people of the Merchant Alliance angrily stormed into the Yin Family Money House, demanding answers.


    Because, among the goods burned last night, they found a waist tag carelessly left behind by someone from the Yin Family.


    Outside the Yin Family Money House, the crowd of onlookers was packed, all wanting to see what had happened.


    They had also heard about the big fire in the Merchant Alliance, but from the current situation, it seemed to be related to the Yin Family Money House.


    "Everyone, everyone, please calm down, please calm down."


    Inside the Yin Family Money House, Yin Zhongdu, who was about to turn sixty, was alarmed and walked out quickly with a cane.


    "Yin Elder, give us an explanation!"


    The person in charge of the Merchant Alliance threw a waist tag engraved with the character "Yin" on the ground in front of the crowd, angrily demanding an explanation.


    A servant boy stepped forward, picked up the waist tag, and respectfully handed it to the old man.


    Yin Zhongdu took the waist tag, his expression slightly solemn. After a moment, he spoke, "The waist tag is indeed from my Yin Family, but the big fire was definitely not set by anyone from my Yin Family. I, as an elder of the Yin Family, dare to guarantee the hundred-year reputation of the Yin Family that this is definitely not the work of the Yin Family!"


    "Yin Elder, my Merchant Alliance has suffered so many losses, and it''s not something you can just push off with a few words!" The person in charge of the Merchant Alliance said angrily.


    "Yao, what do you want?"


    Being wrongly accused for no reason, Yin Zhongdu also felt a bit aggrieved, and said in a deep voice, "What do you want? Of course, it''s compensation!"


    The person in charge of the Merchant Alliance said angrily, "I''ve already calculated the account for you. A total of three hundred thousand taels of silver. If even a single tael is missing, my Merchant Alliance will fight to the end with your Yin Family!"


    "Yes, fight to the end. The Yin Family is too much of a bully!"


    A voice of indignation suddenly sounded from the crowd of the Merchant Alliance, which was quite abrupt but also timely, stirring up everyone''s anger.


    Looking over, it was a young man, handsome and extraordinary, with an exceptional temperament.


    If Li Ziye could describe his appearance, it would definitely be a new edition of the Chinese dictionary.


    However, at this time, no one had the time to look at what Li Ziye looked like.


    "Yes, fight to the end! Too much of a bully!"


    One person ignited the fire, and everyone erupted. Under Li Ziye''s "kind" instigation, the people of the Merchant Alliance became restless, their momentum like waves, and their emotions increasingly out of control.


    In the crowd, Li Ziye shouted at the top of his lungs, looking flushed and excited, even more so than the people of the Merchant Alliance.


    The person in charge of the Merchant Alliance looked back at the young man who was shouting the most vigorously among the crowd and gave him an appreciative look. This young man was good and had a keen eye. He would have to be promoted when he returned!


    "Did you hear? The goods burned last night were a greeting gift from the Merchant Alliance to the Li Family of Yuzhou City, worth three hundred thousand taels of silver. Now it''s been set on fire by the Yin Family, and the Merchant Alliance''s losses this time can be described as heavy!"


    "A greeting gift of three hundred thousand taels of silver? The Merchant Alliance is so generous?"


    "If they can win the opportunity to cooperate with the Li Family, three hundred thousand taels is nothing. Besides, those goods weren''t given away for free. However, none of this matters now. With the goods gone, the Merchant Alliance''s desire to cooperate with the Li Family is probably not that easy."


    "The Yin Family is ruthless too. I heard that the Yin Family also wanted to cooperate with the Li Family this time, probably afraid that the Merchant Alliance would get ahead and resorting to such a sinister trick."


    "Who wouldn''t say so? The Merchant Alliance has suffered such a big loss and will definitely not let it go. Let''s wait and see!"


    Outside the Yin Family Money House, people were whispering to each other, and soon, the whole street knew the "inside story."


    Of course, this inside story was also spread by Li Ziye''s classmates.


    Inside the Yin Family Money House, Yin Zhongdu looked at the excited crowd inside and outside the money house, his expression growing increasingly gloomy.


    This is trouble!


    If this matter is not handled well, the reputation of the Yin Family Money House will be ruined.


    The business of the money house depends on its reputation. If the reputation is tarnished, who would dare to do business with the Yin Family Money House!Thinking of this, Yin Zhongqiang suppressed the anger in his heart and looked at the steward of the Merchant Alliance in front of him, saying in a gentle voice, "Steward Yao, there has been no grudges between our Yin Family Money House and your Merchant Alliance in the past, so why would we do something that harms others and benefits ourselves? There must be someone framing us, and I hope Steward Yao won''t be manipulated by others."


    "Being manipulated? Are you saying that our Steward Yao is brave but foolish?"


    Before the steward of the Merchant Alliance could speak, Li Ziye''s voice rang out from the crowd, sowing discord.


    "That''s right, you''ve committed a wrongdoing and now you want to shift the blame onto others. You dare to do it but not to admit it. Our Steward Yao won''t be fooled by you!"


    Immediately, a young man in a green robe standing next to Li Ziye echoed his words.


    Li Ziye and the young man in the green robe exchanged a glance, then simultaneously averted their gazes.


    Encountering a fellow troublemaker!


    They were both here to stir up trouble.


    Sure enough, after the two of them incited the crowd, the steward of the Merchant Alliance''s expression turned ugly, and he looked at the old master of the Yin Family with a stern gaze, saying in a deep voice, "Old Master Yin, the evidence is here. If you still want to argue, do you want to take this matter to the authorities before Old Master Yin will admit it?"


    "Steward Yao."


    Upon hearing the mention of involving the authorities, Yin Zhong''s expression changed, and he stepped forward, saying in a low voice, "This matter is indeed not something our Yin Family is responsible for. Can Steward Yao please give the Yin Family ten days? I will definitely find out the truth of the matter and give the Merchant Alliance an explanation."


    "Ten days?"


    The steward of the Merchant Alliance snorted coldly, lowering his voice like Old Master Yin, but raising his volume slightly, saying, "Old Master Yin wants ten days as soon as he opens his mouth. Do you want to give the Yin Family time to find a scapegoat to take the blame? I can''t afford to give you this face!"


    In the crowd, Li Ziye pricked up his ears and heard the conversation between the two, immediately shouting loudly, "Steward Yao is right. Today, we must seek justice!"


    "Yes, seek justice! The Yin Family has gone too far!"


    The young man in the green robe also echoed, inciting the crowd together.


    "Seek justice!"


    The already agitated crowd of the Merchant Alliance couldn''t bear the provocation and immediately joined in the shouting.


    Li Ziye and the young man in the green robe silently remembered each other''s appearance, preparing to send someone to investigate the other''s identity after today.


    Encountering a fellow troublemaker here meant that they were either the mastermind behind the scenes or the beneficiary of this matter. The enemy of my enemy is my friend, and there might be a chance for cooperation in the future.


    The commotion in the Yin Family Money House became more and more intense, and outside, more and more people gathered, all eager to see the two sides fight.


    Seeing that the fire had been lit, Li Ziye prepared to slip away.


    Seeing the situation, the young man in the green robe also quietly walked out from the crowd, ready to retreat.


    Outside the Yin Family, the two of them exchanged a smile and extended their hands.


    "Li Dazhuang," Li Ziye introduced himself.


    Find the original at "pawread dot com".


    "Sun Erniu!" the young man in the green robe replied honestly.


    The two shook hands, then immediately retracted and walked away.


    Hmph! Trying to deceive us!


    Li Ziye and the young man in the green robe both inwardly scorned the other!


    Back at the Li Family estate, Li Ziye sent someone to investigate the background of the young man in the green robe.


    Similarly, after returning home, the young man in the green robe also immediately sent someone to investigate Li Ziye''s identity.


    "Li Ziye?"


    "Zhangsun Fengyu!"


    After looking at numerous portraits, the two of them recognized each other at a glance.


    Swindler!


    Li Ziye and Zhangsun Fengyu once again scorned each other''s character.


    "Are you saying that the legitimate son of the Li Family also went to the Yin Family Money House to cause trouble?"


    In the Zhangsun estate, Zhangsun Nanqiao, upon hearing her nephew''s words, showed a hint of surprise on her beautiful face.


    "Yes."


    Taking a sip of tea, Zhangsun Fengyu looked disdainful, "I have never seen such a shameless person, and he even lied to me, saying his name was Li Dazhuang!"


    "You also lied, calling yourself Sun Erniu, didn''t you?" Zhangsun Nanqiao exposed the former''s hypocrisy without mercy.


    "Aunt, why are you speaking up for an outsider?"


    Zhangsun Fengyu was surprised, "Could it be true, as the rumors say, that you have taken a fancy to that young man from the Li Family? Aunt, you must think it over. That boy is even younger than your nephew!"


    "Get lost!"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao scolded without mercy, "I think you''re itching for a beating. If I don''t tell your father to give you a good beating?"


    "Ah, Aunt, I was wrong."


    Zhangsun Fengyu immediately admitted his mistake, saying, "But, Aunt, what do you think the legitimate son of the Li Family meant by this?"


    "Stirring up trouble and causing infighting among the three families."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said calmly, "The people of the Li Family came to the capital city because they were forced by the court, so naturally, they are not willing to compromise easily."


    "Then, was the fire at the Merchant Alliance last night also set by the Li Family?" Zhangsun Fengyu asked in a serious tone.


    "That''s not necessarily the case."Changsun Nanqiao shook her head and said, "It might indeed be the Yin family''s doing. After all, I left Li Garden in disappointment, and now the Merchant Alliance has suffered another heavy blow. The direct beneficiary would be the Yin family."


    "But if it really was the Yin family, why would they leave evidence behind? That doesn''t make sense," Changsun Fengyu expressed his confusion.


    "Perhaps it was an oversight."


    While speaking, Changsun Nanqiao''s lips curved into a radiant smile. "Of course, the Li Family is also a suspect. Fengyu, that Li Ziye is quite interesting. You should try to get closer to him."


    "Get closer?"


    Changsun Fengyu''s lips twitched as he said, "I''m just afraid that if I get too close, he''ll end up being my uncle by marriage."

 Chapter 35 – Affectionate people have never been able to stay

    Li Garden, West Chamber!


    Find the original at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    "Bang!"


    Li Ziye, once again seeking a sparring match with the eldest senior brother, was sent flying after five moves, crashing to the ground face-first.


    "Pah, pah, I''m done fighting!"


    Li Ziye''s mood soured further as he caught the apologetic gaze of the little red-hooded figure. Spitting out the dirt from his mouth, he plopped down on the stone steps.


    All young people, all human, yet the heavens seemed so unjust.


    Why should the little red-hooded figure be so handsome and so skilled in combat?


    "Brother Li has actually improved a lot," Bai Wangyu stepped forward, offering words of comfort.


    "From three moves to five, indeed, that''s a lot."


    Li Ziye replied with a forced smile, "Old Bai, you definitely haven''t taught me properly. Tell me, are you holding back?"


    "Brother Li jests."


    Bai Wangyu replied helplessly, "Martial arts require gradual progress; it can''t be achieved overnight. I''ve been practicing martial arts longer than Brother Li, so it''s normal for me to be a bit stronger. Don''t be too anxious, Brother Li."


    "Alas."


    Li Ziye sighed with a gloomy expression, then reclined on the stone steps, saying, "But in less than three years, I have to compete with Huo Lin''er. How can I not be anxious?"


    After hearing this, Bai Wangyu fell silent. After a moment, he spoke softly, "That Huo Lin''er is indeed formidable."


    "Do you know Huo Lin''er?"


    Li Ziye immediately sat up, asking, "Have you crossed hands with her?"


    "I haven''t crossed hands with her."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head, "However, I''ve had an encounter with Yan Xiaoyu, the Divine Child of the Divine Oracle Temple. If Huo Lin''er''s strength is comparable to Yan Xiaoyu''s, it will indeed be difficult for Brother Li to win the match three years from now."


    "You''ve fought with that Divine Child?"


    Li Ziye''s face showed surprise, "What was the outcome?"


    "He didn''t lose, nor did I win."


    Bai Wangyu spoke softly, "It was a draw."


    "Old Bai, I''m a bit jealous of you now!"


    Li Ziye''s face was colored with envy. That Divine Child was known as one of the four great prodigies of the world, and little red-hooded Bai Wangyu could actually fight him to a draw. Truly, comparing people can be infuriating!


    "Although Brother Li is currently weak, you have astonishing potential and cultivate the Fei Xian Jue, known as the number one technique in the world. One day, you will surpass me," Bai Wangyu said earnestly.


    Li Ziye, looking at the earnest face of the little red-hooded figure before him, felt even more like crying.


    What use is potential if you can''t eat it?


    Would he admit that Old Qin didn''t teach him the Fei Xian Jue because of his potential, but rather, there was simply no other choice, treating a dead horse as if it were alive?


    After all, whatever he practiced, he progressed slowly.


    "I''m going to talk about life with Little Huakui; chatting with you is pointless."


    Once again feeling dejected, Li Ziye retorted to the little red-hooded figure and then stood up to leave Li Garden.


    "Brother Li."


    From behind, Bai Wangyu called out.


    "What is it?"


    Li Ziye turned around and asked.


    "Do you need my personal protection?"


    Bai Wangyu asked seriously.


    "Scram!"


    Li Ziye elegantly spat out a word.


    Bai Wangyu chuckled lightly and said no more.


    Li Ziye left Li Garden feeling very frustrated.


    In just a few days, even the little red-hooded figure had started to go bad!


    In the southeast of the Capital City, not far from the Huai River, in a small courtyard, Yu Qingxuan sat quietly under a maple tree, tuning her ancient zither. The tree was adorned with red leaves, as vibrant as fire, setting off the beauty''s features, a sight too beautiful to behold.


    Li Ziye arrived and stood quietly outside the courtyard, watching the beautiful scene within, reluctant to disturb.


    After an unknown amount of time, Yu Qingxuan in the courtyard felt the gaze from outside and looked up.


    Then, she smiled.


    In that instant, it was as if hundreds of flowers bloomed, a beauty too dazzling to look directly at.


    "Young Master Li."


    Yu Qingxuan stood up, having just called out when she seemed to remember something, her cheeks blushing slightly, "Ziye, have you been here long?"


    "Just arrived."


    Li Ziye stepped into the courtyard, smiling, "Tuning the zither?"


    "Yes."


    Yu Qingxuan nodded, about to say more when a sharp voice rang out from outside.


    "His Highness, the Crown Prince, has arrived!"


    The Crown Prince?


    Yu Qingxuan''s expression changed slightly upon hearing this.


    Beside her, a flicker of surprise crossed Li Ziye''s eyes. Changsun Nanqiao had once reminded him that the Crown Prince and Yu Qingxuan were acquainted; it seemed the rumors were not entirely unfounded.


    "Ziye, hide inside for a bit. It''s troublesome with the Crown Prince coming."


    After regaining her composure, Yu Qingxuan turned to the person beside her and spoke in a serious tone.


    Li Ziye nodded, not asking further, and walked into the small house.


    Yu Qingxuan collected her emotions and stood up to greet the visitor.


    Soon after, the squeaking of a wheelchair was heard outside the courtyard as an old eunuch pushed the Crown Prince forward.


    "Greetings, Your Highness!"


    Yu Qingxuan bowed gracefully, respectfully speaking.


    "No need for formalities."


    On the wheelchair, Mu Yuan looked at the woman before him, asking, "How is the matter I asked you to prepare?"


    "Reporting to Your Highness, everything has been prepared according to your instructions," Yu Qingxuan answered.


    "Good."


    Mu Yuan nodded, his gaze sweeping over the ancient zither and the music scores on the stone table, "I''ve heard that you''ve been getting quite close to the legitimate son of the Li Family these days. Is that true?"


    Yu Qingxuan''s gaze instinctively shifted towards the nearby house, hesitating before replying, "It''s just an acquaintance."


    "Don''t be nervous; I''m not blaming you."


    Mu Yuan spoke calmly, "Since you''re acquainted with the legitimate son of the Li Family, then get along well with him. We may have use for this chess piece."


    "Yes!"


    Yu Qingxuan fell silent for a moment before respectfully responding.


    As the two conversed, behind Mu Yuan, the elderly eunuch Zhao Jie''s gaze turned towards the wooden house, his sinister eyes narrowing slightly before he gently tapped the wheelchair as a reminder.


    Mu Yuan felt it and also looked towards the wooden house.


    Seeing this, Yu Qingxuan''s expression immediately tensed.Mu Yuan glanced at the woman before him and, without asking further, said indifferently, "Let''s go."


    Zhao Jie nodded, pushing the wheelchair towards the courtyard exit.


    "Farewell, Your Highness."


    Yu Qingxuan bowed respectfully, a thin layer of sweat beading on her beautiful face.


    That was close!


    Outside the small courtyard, Zhao Jie pushed the Crown Prince onto the carriage and said, "Your Highness, do you need this old servant to drag the person out?"


    "No need."


    On the carriage, Mu Yuan looked at the small courtyard beside him, a cold curve forming on his lips, "I can probably guess who is in that house. I just didn''t expect Yu Qingxuan''s relationship with him to develop so quickly."


    "Could Yu Qingxuan betray Your Highness?" Zhao Jie asked with concern.


    "She wouldn''t dare." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Mu Yuan replied calmly, "Besides, I haven''t forced her to do anything. Getting close to the Li Family''s heir is exactly what she wants, isn''t it?"


    "Your Highness is wise," Zhao Jie replied respectfully.


    "Let''s go, back to the mansion," Mu Yuan said lightly.


    "Yes!"


    Zhao Jie responded and immediately drove the carriage away.


    In the small courtyard, after the Crown Prince had left, Li Ziye also emerged from the room.


    Yu Qingxuan looked at him, opened her mouth as if to explain something, but didn''t know how to start.


    "No need to explain."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Everyone has their secrets. You never pry into my affairs, do you?"


    Hearing this, Yu Qingxuan breathed a sigh of relief, her smile returning as she said, "Ziye, I never thought of using you."


    "I know."


    Li Ziye nodded and smiled, "However, I do have a favor to ask of you."


    "Ask for my help?"


    Yu Qingxuan said in surprise, "What is it?"


    "The old master of the Yin Family will soon celebrate his sixtieth birthday. I heard that Qing Xuan, you are invited to perform. I wonder, could you take me with you?" Li Ziye asked earnestly.


    Yu Qingxuan was taken aback, then after a moment, nodded and said, "It''s possible, but may I ask, what do you want to do?"


    Li Ziye looked around and then whispered a few words into her ear.


    Yu Qingxuan felt the breath of the man before her, her face blushing at first, but upon hearing what he said, she couldn''t help but exclaim in shock, "Steal something?"


    "Shh!"


    Li Ziye placed his index finger on the lips of the woman before him and said, "Keep your voice down, don''t let others hear."


    Yu Qingxuan was startled, quickly covering her mouth and looking around before whispering, "Stealing from the Yin Family, are you crazy?"


    "I have no choice; it''s very important to me. I must steal it."


    Li Ziye smiled apologetically, his face full of hope, "Qing Xuan, you must help me. Otherwise, I really don''t know how to sneak into the Yin Family."


    Yu Qingxuan bit her lip and after a long while, nodded and said, "Fine, I''ll take you in when the time comes."


    "Really? That''s great! Hug."


    Li Ziye, beaming with joy, hugged her tightly.


    Yu Qingxuan, unable to dodge in time, blushed and, regaining her senses, quickly broke free, pretending to be angry and scolded, "Ziye, if you do this again, I''ll get angry."


    "It was a reflex, not intentional."


    Li Ziye touched his nose awkwardly and said, "Alright, it''s getting late, I should return to the mansion. Visit Li Garden when you have time."


    "Mhm."


    Yu Qingxuan nodded, replying softly.


    Li Ziye waved his hand and then prepared to leave.


    "Ziye."


    Behind him, Yu Qingxuan called out.


    "Hmm?"


    Li Ziye stopped and turned around, "What is it?"


    "The Crown Prince has been kind to me. I promised to help him with three things, but beyond that, we have no other relationship," Yu Qingxuan explained softly.


    Li Ziye''s face broke into a radiant smile, "I understand. If you ever find yourself in a difficult situation, you can always come to me. In this world, ''Money Can Make the Devil be the Worker,'' and it just so happens that the Li Family lacks everything but silver."


    "Alright."


    Yu Qingxuan laughed after hearing this and nodded, "If I''m short on silver, I''ll definitely come to you, Playboy."


    "Ha ha, it''s a deal!"


    Li Ziye laughed heartily and then stepped away.


    At this moment, Li Ziye walked very slowly, trying to make his silhouette appear as tall as possible.


    Since ancient times, many a passionate heart has been left with nothing but regret. Pah, it''s not about holding on, but about winning hearts with clever tricks!


    Sure enough, inside the small courtyard, Yu Qingxuan watched his retreating figure, and her usually calm heart couldn''t help but ripple.


    This Li Family Young Master was truly different.


    For so many years, she had never met someone who truly didn''t care about her status.


    Whether she was the top courtesan or the Crown Prince''s secret chess piece.


    To him, it seemed all the same.


    In his presence, she was just Yu Qingxuan.


    If you treat me with a true heart, I shall repay you in kind.


    Yu Qingxuan made a vow in her heart that no matter what happened in the future, she would remember today, yesterday, and the day before, and would never do anything to harm him.


    It''s easy to meet, but hard to truly know someone.

 Chapter 36 – The news of the third Medicine King

    "Poof!"


    In the western wing of the Li Family''s estate, Li Ziye was having tea and discussing ideals with Xiao Hongmao when he heard Li Youwei''s instructions to the young maidservant. He sprayed out a mouthful of tea in surprise.


    "Yan Xiaoyu is coming to the capital?" Bai Wangyu exclaimed in astonishment.


    "He''s bringing a King Medicine?" Li Ziye exclaimed excitedly.


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man beside him with a puzzled expression. Li Xiong''s perspective on the matter was indeed... unique.


    The Divine Child of the Divine Temple coming to the capital was not less important than a King Medicine, was it?


    In front of the two, a beautiful maidservant nodded and said, "I just received the news. The Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu is already on his way to the capital. He should arrive in ten days."


    "Old Bai," Li Ziye looked at the young man beside him and said.


    "Hmm?" Bai Wangyu looked puzzled.


    "If I ask you to help me ambush Yan Xiaoyu and snatch the King Medicine, will you do it?" Li Ziye asked eagerly.


    "..." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bai Wangyu pretended not to hear, really not wanting to answer such a stupid question.


    "You have no loyalty. I''ll go find Old Zhang."


    Li Ziye sneered and immediately got up, running towards the inner courtyard.


    Half an hour later, in the inner courtyard, the deafening curses of Slovenly Zhang could be heard.


    "Get lost! Why don''t you let me dig up the ancestral tomb of the Master of the Divine Temple!"


    "Just asking, why are you so worked up."


    Li Ziye shouted with a lack of confidence, then slinked out of the inner courtyard and back to the western wing.


    "Li Xiong."


    Li Ziye''s smile became very cordial as he said, "Didn''t the Confucian Scholar tell you to listen to me?"


    "Brother Li."


    Bai Wangyu looked helpless and said, "When Yan Xiaoyu comes to the capital, he will definitely bring a large number of experts from the Divine Temple. Not to mention me, even if the Confucian Scholar personally intervened, it would be useless. Of course, if you can get the Confucian Scholar to help, there might be hope."


    "Act like I didn''t say anything."


    Li Ziye said angrily. He couldn''t even meet the Confucian Scholar, let alone ask him to help.


    Why was his life so bitter?


    Apart from money, he had nothing.


    "Brother Li really wants that King Medicine?" Bai Wangyu thought for a moment and asked.


    "Very, very much." Li Ziye nodded vigorously.


    "If I''m not mistaken, the King Medicine is to be presented to the court. According to past practice, His Majesty will reward these tributes to the meritorious officials of the court and the favored concubines in the palace. If Brother Li wants it, you can try to find a way from this aspect." Bai Wangyu reminded.


    "Good point."


    Li Ziye nodded and stroked his chin. The King Medicine was with Yan Xiaoyu, and he couldn''t take it from him. However, if it was presented to the court, he wouldn''t be completely helpless.


    It seemed that he needed to sell his looks.


    Half a day later, at the Zhangsun Family estate.


    Zhangsun Fengyu looked at his aunt in front of him, then at the letter on the table, a strange expression on his face. "Aunt, the legitimate son of the Li Family invited you to go to the outskirts of the city to visit the lake in three days. Do you have anything to say?"


    "Zhangsun Fengyu, it seems like you''re itching for a beating."


    A dangerous light flashed in Zhangsun Nanqiao''s beautiful eyes as she spoke.


    "Aunt, spare me, I dare not."


    Zhangsun Fengyu decisively surrendered, then reminded, "But Aunt, you should be careful. Based on my dealings with the legitimate son of the Li Family, that kid is very cunning and not easy to deal with. If he takes the initiative to find you, he must have ulterior motives."


    "I understand, no need for you to remind me!"


    Zhangsun Nanqiao replied, then seemed to remember something and asked, "By the way, how did the task I gave you go? Try to persuade your cousin, the Fourth Prince, not to be so stubborn. Our Zhangsun Family has worked so hard to gain power for him, but he doesn''t care about anything, leaving the throne unchallenged and focusing on his broken sword."


    "Aunt, please don''t rush me. I''ve done my best."


    Zhangsun Fengyu smiled bitterly and said, "You know Cousin Mu Bai''s personality. If he were so easily persuaded, we wouldn''t have to work so hard all these years."


    "Born in the royal family, as a prince, if he doesn''t do what a prince should do, I really don''t know how I gave birth to such an incompetent son." Zhangsun Nanqiao said indignantly.


    "Aunt."


    Zhangsun Fengyu''s expression suddenly became strange and he said, "Didn''t the legitimate son of the Li Family say he only wants to be a Sword Immortal? Well, Cousin Mu Bai also aspires to be one. Why not arrange for them to meet? Maybe they will hit it off and help us bring the Li Family over."


    "It would be good if they don''t fight, let alone hit it off."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said irritably, "Mu Bai has finally met a worthy opponent. How could he possibly let it go so easily? The legitimate son of the Li Family has been personally taught by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal. His swordsmanship must be strong. Both of them getting injured would be a big problem. Don''t come up with these ideas, go cool off somewhere else."


    "Haha, I just mentioned it casually. Aunt''s words make sense. Forget it, I won''t take this risk." Zhangsun Fengyu laughed and agreed.


    Zhangsun Nanqiao no longer paid attention to the fool in front of her, her beautiful eyes staring at the letter on the table, a hint of strangeness flashing in them.


    The sudden invitation from that kid was really unexpected.


    Could it be that he had changed his mind?


    In the palace, at the Ninth Princess''s residence.


    Murong, Mu Bai''s sister, and Mu Bai were playing chess.


    The woman was as beautiful as a flower, and the man was as sharp as a sword.


    Even though they were born in the royal family and held high positions, they could not conceal their outstanding talents.


    "Elder brother, you''ve lost again."


    Murong made her move, deciding the outcome of the game, and a brilliant smile appeared on her face as she said.


    "I''m not inferior to you in chess skills," Mu Bai put down the chess piece and said calmly.


    "Elder brother, it''s not that your chess skills are inferior to mine, but that your mind is not calm enough."


    Murong smiled and said, "If I hadn''t dragged you into playing chess with me every day, you would have gone to challenge the legitimate son of the Li Family long ago.""He has been taught by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal; his swordsmanship must be extraordinary. There''s no harm in a friendly match," Mu Bai said calmly.


    "But I''ve heard that the cultivation level of this direct descendant of the Li Family isn''t that impressive, seemingly having just opened his first Divine Hidden Technique not long ago," Murong remarked.


    "Cultivation level is not important."


    Mu Bai replied indifferently, "If he has not been cultivating for long, it''s not strange that his cultivation level isn''t high. I am only comparing swordsmanship with him, not cultivation levels."


    "Big brother."


    Murong said helplessly, "I understand how you feel, but just because I understand doesn''t mean others will. Swords and sabers are blind; if you accidentally injure the Li Family''s direct descendant, it will give people an excuse to say that our Royal Family is deliberately humiliating the Li Family. Now is a sensitive time, just as the Li Family has entered the Capital City. Big brother, please be patient."


    Upon hearing this, Mu Bai''s brows furrowed slightly. After a long pause, he nodded and said, "I heard that Yan Xiaoyu is also coming to the Capital City."


    Murong, who was packing up the chess pieces, paused and looked up at his elder brother, his beautiful eyes full of warning, "Big brother, please don''t act rashly. Yan Xiaoyu''s visit represents the Divine Oracle Palace to pay respects to the court and the Imperial Academy. If you injure him, Great Shang will have trouble explaining to the Divine Oracle Palace."


    "Don''t worry, I''m not so unreasonable."


    Mu Bai said calmly, "This Capital City is getting more and more boring by the day. Everyone is bound by so-called rules and cannot be their true selves."


    "Big brother, you better not let our aunt hear that, or she''ll say you''re lacking ambition again," Murong said with a smile.


    "She''s a madwoman."


    Mentioning Changsun Nanchao, Mu Bai felt a headache coming on. He had no way to deal with this aunt of his.


    Though she was only a few years older than him, her seniority was higher, and she was unreasonable when angry. He, a Prince, could only be scolded in front of this madwoman, Changsun Nanchao.


    Meanwhile, inside the Capital City, the news that the Divine Child of the Divine Oracle Palace was coming to Great Shang spread like wildfire.


    Thus, this sudden event completely replaced the drama between the Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House, becoming the hottest topic in the Capital City.


    Whether it was the nobility, commoners, or storytellers, everyone was discussing Yan Xiaoyu''s visit to the Capital City.


    "Have you heard? The Divine Child is coming to the Capital City to challenge Mu Bai, who is also one of the four great prodigies of the world."


    "Is that true? I heard that the Divine Child is coming to visit the Imperial Academy and to exchange martial arts insights with the Confucian School''s top disciple, Bai Wangyu."


    "You''ve all got it wrong. If the Divine Child from the Divine Oracle Palace wanted to challenge Mu Bai or Bai Wangyu, he would have come earlier. Why wait until now? According to reliable information, Yan Xiaoyu''s target is not them."


    "If not Mu Bai and Bai Wangyu, then who?"


    "Have you forgotten who has been the most talked-about person in the Capital City recently?"


    "Are you talking about the Li Family''s direct descendant?"


    "Yes, that''s Li Ziye. I have relatives in Yangzhou City, which is close to Yuzhou. They say that Li Ziye is a peerless genius who can rival the four great prodigies, born with a sword in hand, creating his own swordsmanship at the age of ten. The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal took notice of his talent and deliberately went to Yuzhou City to take him as a disciple."


    "Wow, is Li Ziye really that amazing?"


    "Of course. Think about it, Li Ziye just arrived in the Capital City a few days ago, and the Divine Child followed. Isn''t the target obvious?"


    "Now that you mention it, it does make sense. The Li Family from Yuzhou City is really something. Not only are they rich enough to rival nations, but they''ve also produced such an extraordinary genius."


    "The Li Family is on the rise!"


    "If heaven had not created Li Ziye, the path of swordsmanship would be as dark as night!"


    Rumors, always rumors. Li Yuan, Li Ziye, upon hearing the rampant rumors outside, spat out his tea again.


    "This, this time it''s not me."


    Li Ziye had a look of misunderstanding on his face, as if to say you''ve got it all wrong.


    These people, truly uneducated. It''s supposed to be "If heaven had not created Confucius, the world would be in eternal night." How could they change the classics like this!


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu remained detached, as if the matter did not concern him, calmly eating melon seeds.


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine, his smile not reaching his eyes. He didn''t believe a word Li Ziye said, not even a punctuation mark.


    Hong Zhu passed by with a plate of dried fruit, casually tossing a piece to both Bai Wangyu and Slovenly Zhang, then floated away.


    The Young Master''s words? Just listen and let it be.


    Anyone who believes it is a fool.


    "You guys!"


    Li Ziye looked aggrieved. This was too much bullying!


    Which bastard spread these rumors? He had finally wanted to keep a low profile for once, and now he was pushed into the limelight again.


    In the Flower Garden Pavilion, on the third floor, a servant boy entered and said respectfully, "Tower Master, I have spread the rumors as you instructed."


    "Understood, you may go."


    Inside the room, Li Qingzhi, dressed in a silver-gray wide robe, nodded slightly and said indifferently.


    The servant boy took the order and left.


    Li Qingzhi walked to the window, looking out at the bustling Capital City, a barely noticeable smile appearing on his stern face.


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    Little brother, do you like this gift from your Second Brother?

 Chapter 37 – How am I supposed to continue the act?

    In the western region of Great Shang, the carriages and horses were rushing from the Divine Temple in the Western Regions to the capital city of Great Shang.


    In the front and back of the team, a hundred fully armed divine temple cavalrymen followed, covered in silver armor from head to toe, with only their eyes exposed, almost armed to the teeth.


    In the middle of the team, the most prestigious person in the world was sitting on a luxurious carriage inlaid with gold and jade.


    The Divine Child of the Divine Temple!


    Yan Xiaoyu.


    His handsome face, as if carved by the heavens themselves, with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, exuded a heroic aura. He wore a moon-white robe with gold thread embellishments, which, combined with his perfect face, made everyone else in the entourage pale in comparison.


    Yan Xiaoyu, the strongest Divine Child in the history of the Divine Temple, without a doubt.


    In terms of strength and talent, Yan Xiaoyu had already surpassed the other three, ranking first.


    "Divine Child, there is a rugged mountain road ahead, with many bandits lurking. It may be dangerous, so please be careful," the chief of the divine temple cavalry, Mu Shou Zhi, rode up on horseback as they were about to pass a mountain stream, speaking respectfully.


    "The Divine Child has my protection. The chief only needs to lead the way," Yan Xiaoyu had not spoken yet when a red-robed, androgynous, and wrinkled-faced old man under the carriage spoke in a hoarse voice.


    "Alright."


    Mu Shou Zhi glanced at the red-robed old man who had spoken and nodded in agreement, then immediately spurred his horse to the front of the team.


    "Grand Archbishop Rongn¨¹, you can come up if you want," Yan Xiaoyu looked at the red-robed old man under the carriage, speaking gently.


    Although Liu Rongn¨¹ looked like a dying old man and seemed unremarkable, her status was extremely respected, ranking among the four red-robed grand archbishops of the Divine Temple, second only to the temple master. Even he had to treat her with respect.


    "No need."


    Liu Rongn¨¹ replied calmly, "I''m used to walking."


    Yan Xiaoyu nodded with a smile at her response, not trying to persuade her further.


    In the Divine Temple, there were many strange people, and this Grand Archbishop Rongn¨¹ was particularly eccentric, resembling a monk who had renounced the world. However, her cultivation was extremely powerful, and no one dared to provoke her.


    The carriages rumbled past the mountain stream, and on both sides of the mountain slopes, there were occasional falling rocks, creating an increasingly eerie atmosphere.


    The chief of the divine temple cavalry, Mu Shou Zhi, looked at the mountain slopes on both sides, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    Something was not right!


    "Haha, after waiting for so long, we finally caught a big fat sheep. Brothers, the silver is delivered to us. Kill them!"


    At that moment, a rough and hearty laughter rang out from the side of the mountain slope, echoing through the valley.


    "Kill!"


    Following that, hundreds of figures emerged from the mountain grass, picking up rocks and logs to throw down below.


    Suddenly, the sound of rolling boulders echoed through the mountain stream.


    "Form a defensive formation, protect!"


    The chief of the divine temple cavalry, Mu Shou Zhi, remained calm and gave the order.


    "Yes!"


    The hundred silver-armored cavalrymen in the front and back of the team responded in unison, immediately contracting and crossing their long spears to block the rolling logs and falling rocks.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The violent collisions sounded as countless boulders and logs were blocked by the hundred silver-armored cavalrymen, and not a single one fell into the interior of the team.


    As the boulders and logs fell to the ground, warhorses neighed, dust billowed, and on the mountain, several hundred bandits immediately rushed down, shouting.


    "Kill them!"


    Three to four hundred bandits, each wielding a machete, exuded a fierce air. Among the group of bandits, the leader held a large machete, covered in scars, and charged down at the front.


    "Change formation, attack!"


    Amidst the swirling dust, Mu Shou Zhi watched the bandits charging down, calmly giving the order.


    "Yes!"


    The hundred silver-armored cavalrymen received the order, their armor clanging as they moved, forming a battle formation and charging into the swirling dust with their long spears.


    In an instant, the hundred silver-armored cavalrymen and over three hundred bandits engaged in a one-sided slaughter. The bandits quickly fell in the swirling dust, staining the ground of the mountain stream red.


    Some bandits broke through the defensive line and charged towards Yan Xiaoyu''s carriage. Before they could even see the face of the young man on the carriage, they felt a terrifying wave of energy.


    With a loud bang, everyone near the carriage was sent flying by this terrifying wave of energy, along with the swirling dust, which was completely dispersed.


    As the dust cleared, the bandits writhing in pain on the ground, in the middle, the red-robed old man stood there, with five divine hidden techniques constantly roaring on his body, exuding a terrifying aura.


    "Get lost!"


    Liu Rongn¨¹''s pair of old eyes swept over everyone present, and she coldly ordered.


    Like thunder, her voice exploded in the mountain stream, and all the bandits, including the bandit leader, were struck as if by lightning, spewing blood and looking horrified, then scrambling to escape up the mountain.


    Practitioners of the Five Realms, terrifying as such...After sending away the bandits in the mountains, the Divine Temple team continued on their journey. On the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the old man in the red robe beside him and nodded in acknowledgment. "Bishop Liu, thank you for your help."


    "It is my duty," Liu Rongn¨¹ replied calmly, then fell silent and continued to follow the team.


    Seeing this, Yan Xiaoyu smiled faintly and said no more.


    It seemed that it was not easy to win over Bishop Liu.


    Great Shang Capital City.


    The news of the Divine Temple team being attacked quickly spread to the major powers.


    Especially within the Divine Temple team, the terrifying strength displayed by Bishop Liu shocked everyone in the capital city.


    "The Fifth Realm, damn it."


    Li Yuan, Li Ziye, couldn''t help but curse when he heard the news.


    The Divine Temple actually sent a Bishop in red to protect Yan Xiaoyu. What a joke.


    He couldn''t possibly send someone to knock out Yan Xiaoyu in the presence of a Fifth Realm powerhouse.


    "Liu Rongn¨¹ is also here?"


    Bai Wangyu, upon hearing the news, showed a hint of surprise on his usually calm face. This was troublesome.


    The strength of Bishop Liu was unfathomable, and she was probably even more powerful than the Confucian School''s Grand Elder.


    "Yeah."


    Beside him, Li Ziye responded with a face full of frustration.


    There was no need to think about it. His fantasy of snatching the third King''s Medicine was completely ruined.


    He should continue to consider his plan to sell his looks!


    Indeed, he was more suited to living off others. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If things didn''t work out, he would just have to yield to Long Sun Nanqiao when they went for a stroll by the lake tomorrow.


    "Old Bai."


    Thinking of this, Li Ziye looked at the little red hat beside him and repeatedly instructed, "Tomorrow, when you and I go together, act according to the situation. If Chen Yifei and those playboys want to cause trouble for me, you can cripple them. If Long Sun Nanqiao uses force on me, pretend not to see it, understand?"


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu glanced at the idiot beside him, didn''t want to speak, afraid that idiocy was contagious.


    The next day, at the break of dawn, Li Ziye eagerly took the little red hat and went to Long Sun''s mansion to meet Long Sun Nanqiao.


    Outside Long Sun''s mansion, the two didn''t wait long before Long Sun Nanqiao, dressed in a long skirt, walked out. Her beautiful face was clearly carefully made up, looking charming and attractive.


    "Nanqiao, please."


    Li Ziye helped Long Sun Nanqiao onto the carriage, then gave the little red hat a look and said, "Old Bai, drive."


    After that, Li Ziye also got into the carriage.


    Bai Wangyu sat in the carriage, silent, and silently acted as the coachman.


    Inside the carriage, Li Ziye looked at the woman in front of him with a bright smile on his face.


    He didn''t think his behavior was excessive at all.


    To make the Confucian School''s senior brother act as a coachman, only Li Ziye dared to do so under the heavens, and he was so unapologetic about it.


    "Young Master Li, did you find me for something?" Long Sun Nanqiao looked at the smile on the young man''s face and felt a hint of indescribable awkwardness, unable to help but ask.


    "Strolling by the lake, enjoying the scenery!"


    "It''s autumn now."


    Long Sun Nanqiao reminded him that it was the first time she had heard of strolling by the lake in autumn.


    "What''s wrong with autumn? As long as Nanqiao is here, it''s spring everywhere."


    Li Ziye began to show off his shameless skills to win the girl''s favor, smiling.


    If you want to win a girl''s heart, you have to be shameless, absolutely shameless, shameless to the core!


    "Young Master Li, why are you so sweet today?"


    Hearing the young man''s words, Long Sun Nanqiao''s face showed a hint of a smile as she asked.


    "A few days ago, when Nanqiao came to Li Yuan, I didn''t realize your good intentions at the time. It wasn''t until after you left that I regretted it. So, today, I invite you to come out and enjoy the scenery to make amends." Li Ziye smiled.


    Outside, Bai Wangyu, who was driving the carriage, couldn''t help but twitch his mouth when he heard the nonsense Li Ziye was spouting inside the carriage.


    Regret? If it weren''t for the King''s Medicine brought by Yan Xiaoyu, he wouldn''t believe that this guy had an ounce of regret in his heart.


    Of course, Bai Wangyu didn''t expose the lies of the guy in the carriage, but chose to assist in his wrongdoing.


    After all, they were in this together.


    On the outskirts of the city, the Xiang River flowed from the capital city, extending all the way to the lake. The turbulent river gradually calmed down, forming a beautiful lake.


    Around it, perhaps due to the warmth of the lake, there was still a hint of greenery.


    "We''re here!"


    With the morning sun shining, Bai Wangyu stopped the carriage a hundred steps away from the lake and spoke.


    "Nanqiao, please!"


    Inside the carriage, Li Ziye gallantly helped Long Sun Nanqiao down from the carriage and, after taking a distant look at the lake, stepped onto the grass and walked forward with her.


    Bai Wangyu, on the other hand, stayed by the carriage, silently watching the horses without following.


    By the lake, Li Ziye led Long Sun Nanqiao and, looking at the water ahead, was suddenly inspired to recite a poem: "The water glistens beautifully in the clear sunshine, and the mountains look mysterious even in the rain."


    After reciting half a good poem, Li Ziye shifted his gaze back to the woman beside him and began to praise her with poetry. "To compare the Xiang River to Lady Xi, light makeup or heavy makeup, both are suitable!"


    So moist, so moist!


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    After reciting the poem, Li Ziye couldn''t help but praise himself in his heart. Fortunately, he still had some reserves of poetry.


    "Young Master Li, your literary talent is indeed extraordinary, but have you always been like this in winning over girls?"Changsun Nanqiao praised the former, then with a smile that was not quite a smile, she asked, "Should I play along a bit, and pretend to be deeply moved?"


    If she were still a naive young girl, she might have been swayed by this fellow''s literary grace.


    But now, she was nearly twenty-eight years old, no longer the little girl who could be touched by a poem or two.


    Beside her, Li Ziye, who had just finished a fine poem and was ready to bask in adoration, was taken aback by her words.


    This isn''t how it''s supposed to go!


    Shouldn''t she be looking at him with admiration after he displayed his talent, then crying out to devote herself to him?


    At the very least, she should be tearfully lamenting the helplessness of ''you were born before me, and by the time you were born, I was already old''!


    Li Ziye looked at the woman beside him, his gaze somewhat vacant.


    With such a reaction from you, how am I supposed to continue the act?

 Chapter 38 – Big buttocks well-nurtured

    By the side of Xiangshui Lake, Changsun Nanqiao looked at the young man beside him, who seemed to have understood what he was thinking, and covered his mouth with a light smile.


    Are you dumb!


    After laughing, Changsun Nanqiao restrained the smile on his face, his eyes were as clear as water, and he said with a hint of tears, "Young Master Li, you are really amazing. I really regret not being born a few years earlier, otherwise, I would definitely marry no one but Young Master."


    "..."


    Li Ziye was speechless. Sister, can you be a little less fake?


    The autumn wind brushed past, and a strand of long hair floated by Changsun Nanqiao''s ear, landing on Li Ziye''s face, tickling him.


    Then, Li Ziye took a deep breath quietly.


    It smells so good!


    "Is it fragrant?"


    Changsun Nanqiao turned her head and asked.


    "What?"


    Li Ziye looked puzzled and said, "Is Nanqiao sister asking me?"


    Changsun Nanqiao smiled and did not ask again. Little guy, you can keep pretending!


    At this time, in the middle of the lake, an old man in a straw hat paddled a single boat, preparing to start his day''s work.


    And his target was people like Li Ziye who came to the lake to relax after a meal.


    Sure enough, as soon as the old man paddled the boat past, Li Ziye''s voice rang out, "Old man, take us on the boat!"


    "Coming, Young Master!"


    In the middle of the lake, the old man smiled and responded, then paddled the boat towards the shore.


    After the boat docked, Li Ziye took out a few pieces of silver and handed them to the old man, saying boldly, "No need to look for change."


    "Young Master, if I paddle the boat, it will cost two pieces of silver," the old man said with difficulty.


    On the side, Changsun Nanqiao chuckled at his words.


    "So expensive!"


    Li Ziye couldn''t care less about losing face and said in shock, "Robbery!"


    "Young Master, this is only one piece of silver, not two," Changsun Nanqiao covered her mouth and chuckled.


    "Then I''ll paddle the boat myself. One piece should be enough, right?"


    Li Ziye said with a pained expression. Although he was rich, the prices in the capital were too high, and this was still the suburbs!


    "Young Master wants to paddle the boat himself?"


    The old man looked at the woman beside him and then at the young man in front of him, a look of disdain on his old face.


    He had never seen such a stingy man, wasting such a beautiful girl.


    "What kind of look is that, old man."


    Li Ziye felt insulted by the disdain in the old man''s eyes.


    "Let''s go."


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    On the side, Changsun Nanqiao said with a light smile, then stepped onto the small boat.


    Under the disdainful gaze of the old man, Li Ziye boarded the boat and picked up the oar, ready to take the beauty out for a boat ride.


    But Li Ziye had forgotten that he didn''t actually know how to paddle a boat.


    So, in the midst of Li Ziye''s frantic fumbling, the boat began to rock violently, and the degree of the rocking became more and more frightening, as if it could capsize at any moment.


    "Ah!"


    On the boat, Changsun Nanqiao couldn''t help but exclaim in fear, feeling nervous and scared.


    "Young Master, if you can''t do it, let me do it. It''s just an extra piece of silver. Young Master''s attire shows that he is a rich man. Why be stingy over one piece of silver?"


    On the shore, the old man looked at Li Ziye''s frantic appearance on the boat and sneered.


    "I don''t have any money!"


    Li Ziye was furious. He would rather die than give up that one piece of silver.


    "Ah!"


    As Li Ziye spoke, he lost his balance for a moment, and the boat suddenly tipped over to one side.


    "Splash!" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then, both of them fell into the water.


    The autumn lake water was not bone-chilling, but it was still very cold.


    Changsun Nanqiao''s dress was instantly soaked, clinging to her body, revealing her exquisite curves.


    "Gulp!"


    Li Ziye just took a glance and couldn''t look away, feeling weak in the knees.


    This time, it wasn''t intentional!


    The boat capsized on its own, it wasn''t his fault.


    By the way, has this woman really been married before? She has maintained her figure so well.


    She''s well-endowed, very well-endowed!


    If she forces herself on him, should he resist?


    After all, he needs her help. Should he just give in?


    It doesn''t seem like a bad deal!


    ...


    In a brief moment, Li Ziye''s mind raced wildly, countless thoughts flooding his mind. The speed of his brain''s operation in this second, I would call it the fastest.


    "Stop staring!"


    Feeling the invasive gaze of the young man beside her, Changsun Nanqiao hurriedly hugged herself, scolding him in anger.


    "Sorry, sorry, let''s go ashore first."


    Li Ziye came to his senses, smiled awkwardly, and then helped the woman to the shore.


    "Young Master, why bother? It''s just one piece of silver!"


    On the shore, the old man endured a smile and added insult to injury.


    Li Ziye glanced at the old man, then looked around to see if there was anyone else nearby.


    Should he just beat up this annoying old man?


    After all, there was no one else around, and even if the old man tried to extort money, there would be no one to prove it.


    When it came to the authorities, he could turn the tables and say that the old man was a swindler, taking the silver and still extorting people. He and Changsun Nanqiao refused, so he deliberately capsized them into the water.


    That way, he could get back that one piece of silver!


    Thinking of this, a twisted smile gradually appeared on Li Ziye''s face. He was really too clever!


    Five steps away, the old man felt a chill run down his spine as he saw the unfriendly gaze of the young man in front of him, and subconsciously took two steps back.


    "Achoo!"


    A cold wind blew, and beside Li Ziye, Changsun Nanqiao sneezed, shivering involuntarily.


    "Nanqiao sister, let''s go change clothes first!"


    Seeing the woman shivering, Li Ziye had to let go of the old man in front of him and led Changsun Nanqiao towards the carriage.


    In front of the carriage, Bai Wangyu leaned back against the carriage, leisurely reading a Confucian scripture, looking content.


    No matter when, the senior brother of the Confucian School was always so calm. Compared to the constantly surprised and foolish Li Ziye, he was simply two extremes.


    "Old Bai!"


    Speak of the devil, and he shall appear. Li Ziye hurriedly walked over with Changsun Nanqiao by his side, shouting, "Is there a change of clothes prepared in the carriage?"


    "No," Bai Wangyu said calmly.


    "No?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback and asked, "Why didn''t you prepare some dry clothes?""I never thought you could fall into the lake just by rowing a boat," Bai Wangyu said earnestly.


    "Old Bai!"


    Li Ziye gritted his teeth and squeezed out a few words through clenched teeth, "Believe it or not, I''ll strip off your clothes."


    "Heh."


    Bai Wangyu smiled indifferently, too lazy to respond.


    Li Ziye alone could take on a hundred like him.


    Li Ziye never imagined that in Little Red Riding Hood''s heart, he had become a unit of martial strength; otherwise, he would have leapt up to fight to the death.


    "Young Master Li, let''s go back."


    Changsun Nanqiao hugged herself tightly, trembling slightly as she spoke.


    "Alright!"


    Li Ziye nodded, his expression filled with concern as he glanced at the woman beside him. He then walked up to Little Red Riding Hood and began to strip off his clothes, saying, "Give me your clothes."


    "This is my only Confucian robe!"


    Bai Wangyu resisted, preferring death to submission.


    "You''re a grown man; no one will look even if you''re not wearing it!"


    Li Ziye applied more force, determined to strip Little Red Riding Hood of his clothes.


    After several rounds of tug-of-war, Li Ziye emerged victorious!


    Because if Bai Wangyu resisted any further, his Confucian robe would be torn to shreds.


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, put on the robe first to warm up; we''ll head back now."


    Li Ziye draped Little Red Riding Hood''s Confucian robe over the woman beside him, generously offering someone else''s kindness without a second thought for the now thinly-clad Little Red Riding Hood.


    After the two boarded the carriage, Li Ziye remembered Little Red Riding Hood and turned back, "Old Bai, drive the carriage!"


    The corners of Bai Wangyu''s mouth twitched, and he held back several times before resisting the urge to strike someone.


    The morning sun shone down on the lakeshore as the carriage creaked along, retracing its path.


    A lakeside outing that was just about to begin came to an abrupt end.


    Inside the carriage, Changsun Nanqiao tightened the Confucian robe around her, still feeling very cold.


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, if you don''t mind, let me help you warm up," Li Ziye said, seeing the woman trembling before him, his face showing pity as he opened his arms and kindly offered, "There''s no one else here; no one will know."


    Changsun Nanqiao lifted her head, her somewhat pale face revealing a dangerous smile as she uttered fragrantly, "Scram!"


    "..."


    Li Ziye''s outstretched arm stiffened, feeling somewhat embarrassed. He really just wanted to help her warm up.


    Those with impure thoughts indeed think others are the same.


    The carriage rumbled forward, and inside, Changsun Nanqiao''s complexion grew paler and paler, looking very unwell.


    Li Ziye, seeing her condition, truly began to worry.


    Could this woman have some chronic illness?


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, can you hold on?" Li Ziye asked, concerned.


    "Mhm."


    Changsun Nanqiao nodded weakly, her consciousness beginning to blur.


    "Elder Sister Nanqiao, forgive me!"


    Seeing her state, Li Ziye could no longer care about anything else and sat beside her, pulling her into his embrace.


    Instantly, the warmth and fragrance of jade filled his arms, and a refreshing scent entered his nostrils.


    Changsun Nanqiao''s body stiffened, wanting to struggle, but she had no strength left.


    Perhaps it was the warmth from Li Ziye''s body that gave the ice-cold Changsun Nanqiao a trace of warmth, and gradually, her rigid body softened, no longer resisting.


    Li Ziye tightened his arms, making Changsun Nanqiao lean more comfortably against him.


    Outside, the carriage rumbled past the suburbs, speeding up.


    After an unknown amount of time, the carriage entered the city streets, and due to the increasing number of pedestrians, it had to slow down.


    Inside the carriage, Li Ziye felt the woman in his arms growing hotter and lifted the carriage curtain in a panic, asking, "How much longer until we reach Changsun Mansion?"


    "There are too many people; it''ll take at least another hour," Bai Wangyu replied while driving the carriage.


    "Too long, head to Li Garden first!"


    Li Ziye made a decisive decision.


    "Mhm!"


    Bai Wangyu acknowledged and immediately drove the carriage towards Li Garden.


    Half an hour later, in front of Li Garden, the carriage stopped, and Li Ziye carried the unconscious Changsun Nanqiao down from the carriage and quickly walked towards the mansion.


    "Summon the mansion''s physician to the inner courtyard!"


    After entering the mansion, Li Ziye shouted and carried the woman directly to the inner courtyard.


    Before long, in the inner courtyard room, a crowd gathered.


    "Did you manage all this in just one trip?"


    Hong Zhu looked at the unconscious woman on the bed, her face full of confusion, "That was too quick, did you drug her?"


    "This girl seems a bit older than you."


    Slovenly Zhang took a sip of wine and continued, "But her family background and looks are quite good, more than a match for you, Younger Brother."


    "Younger Brother, age doesn''t matter; as long as she has a big behind, she''s well-nurtured, Elder Sister supports you."


    Li Youwei glanced at Changsun Nanqiao on the bed and once again made a shocking statement.


    "Cough cough!"


    In the room, Li Ziye listened to the three''s words of a wolf and tiger and nearly choked to death.


    What is all this!


    Was he the kind of person who coveted beauty?


    No!

 Chapter 39 – Real man

    "In fact, there''s nothing between me and her."


    In the room, Li Ziye glanced at everyone and argued cunningly.


    "Oh."


    Slovenly Zhang responded indifferently, then lost interest and left the room.


    "These dried fruits aren''t very sweet, I''ll go get another plate."


    Hong Zhu also said nonchalantly and walked away.


    "Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye shifted his gaze to the elder sister in the room who cared for him the most, his eyes full of expectation, hoping for trust and understanding!


    "Younger Brother, work hard. This sister-in-law is not bad."


    Li Youwei smiled and patted his shoulder, then also left the room.


    "..."


    Li Ziye smiled bitterly. This is really a situation where there''s no way to explain!


    In the room, Changsun Nanqiao lay on the bed with a pale face, her beautiful face looking so fragile at the moment.


    "Young Master, the medicine is ready."


    At this moment, a pretty little maid walked in, admiringly glanced at the woman on the bed, and said respectfully.


    "Okay, just give it to me."


    Li Ziye took the prepared medicine and walked to the bedside.


    The little maid left, and before leaving, her pretty face was full of disappointment. The young master rarely brought women back to the mansion. Could this woman be their future mistress?


    She looked much older than the young master. Their young master is so outstanding, this woman is not worthy of the young master.


    The little maid left the room with a low spirit.


    On the side, Hong Zhu passed by with a plate of dried fruits and saw the look of the little maid, showing a strange expression.


    It seems that these pretty little maids of Li Yuan all treasure their young master.


    At such a young age, their taste is so bad, it''s a pity.


    If these little girls knew how despicable and shameless their young master is, they probably wouldn''t be so disappointed.


    Hong Zhu put a piece of dried fruit in her mouth, shook her head helplessly, and then left.


    Admiration for individuals is not good!


    In the room, Li Ziye fed the unconscious Changsun Nanqiao spoonful by spoonful of the medicine.


    Perhaps because she had been unconscious, a lot of the medicine fed to Changsun Nanqiao spilled out.


    Li Ziye looked at the remaining medicine in the bowl, then looked at Changsun Nanqiao''s charming red lips, wondering if he should feed her with his mouth.


    After some thought, Li Ziye decided to endure a bit of discomfort and drank the remaining medicine in one gulp, then leaned down.


    "Cough..."


    At this moment, on the bed, Changsun Nanqiao suddenly coughed a few times, then slowly opened her eyes.


    Their eyes met, and time seemed to stand still. At this moment, the distance between the two was less than an inch, and they could even feel each other''s breath.


    Li Ziye froze, with the medicine in his mouth, his face bulging like a frog, not knowing whether to go up or down, looking very embarrassed.


    "What are you trying to do?"


    After a moment, Changsun Nanqiao spoke, breaking the eerie silence.


    "Gulp!"


    Li Ziye swallowed all the remaining medicine in one gulp, his face contorted with bitterness.


    This is a big loss. She could have woken up earlier or later, but she chose to wake up now.


    Now, not only can''t he explain, but he also drank a bellyful of medicine.


    "I, I just wanted to feed Sister Nanqiao the medicine."


    After finally getting over the bitterness of the medicine, straightening his tongue, Li Ziye looked at the woman in front of him with a sheepish smile.


    Changsun Nanqiao stared at the young man in front of her for a long time. A beautiful smile appeared on her face, "If you want to, you don''t have to do it sneakily. Sister can do it for you."


    "Hiss..."


    Li Ziye took a sharp breath at her words.


    Wait a minute, let him slow down. This sentence carries a lot of information.


    Is it a hint!


    Is this a hint?


    "You''re a little guy with a guilty conscience."


    Changsun Nanqiao gave him a white look, then struggled to sit up and said, "Help me up."


    Li Ziye came to his senses and immediately reached out to help the woman in front of him.


    Changsun Nanqiao sat up, leaning against the bed, and asked, "Is this Li Yuan?"


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "You had a high fever before, so I brought you to Li Yuan first, had the doctor give you acupuncture and medicine. I also sent someone to inform Changsun Mansion. I believe someone will come soon."


    "When I was unconscious, did you do anything to me?"


    Changsun Nanqiao looked at the new clothes on her body, smiling ambiguously.


    "Absolutely not!"


    Li Ziye immediately sat up straight and said, "Sister Youwei helped you change your clothes!"


    "Why are you so nervous? I was just asking casually."


    Changsun Nanqiao''s lips curved slightly, teasing, "Do you have something to hide?"


    "Sister Nanqiao, am I that kind of person?"


    Li Ziye shook his head vigorously, as if reciting a series of statements like a textbook, "I have always adhered to the way of the saints, knowing the rules, observing etiquette, and being a true gentleman. I never take advantage of others, and everyone in the mansion can testify to that."


    Listening to the young man in front of her reciting a series of statements like a textbook, Changsun Nanqiao''s smile became even more charming. This little guy is becoming more and more interesting to her.


    The people in the capital are too rule-abiding, even those old foxes live within the confines of the rules and agreements and won''t easily overstep them.


    But this little guy is different.


    His arrival, his unconventional methods, have already begun to disrupt the balance that the capital has maintained for many years.


    In the future, more and more balances and rules will be broken, and this silent capital will become more and more lively.


    She wants to see how much this little guy can change the Great Shang Capital!


    And Yan Xiaoyu, who is about to arrive in the Great Shang Capital, is known as the most rule-abiding person in the world, the son of the god of light, and he abhors any irregularities beyond the rules.


    What kind of sparks will these two people collide with?


    "Young Master."


    Just then, a servant hurriedly walked in from outside the room and said respectfully, "The young master of Changsun Mansion is here, waiting outside the mansion. He said he wants to take his aunt back."


    "The young master of Changsun Mansion?"Li Ziye was momentarily taken aback upon hearing the words.


    "Feng Yu has arrived; it''s time for me to leave."


    Zhangsun Nanchao smiled, then rose from the bed and stood up. Turning her gaze to the young man beside her, she said, "Young Master Li, if you don''t state your purpose for seeking me out today, it will be too late."


    "Nanchao sister."


    Li Ziye''s face showed a hint of shyness as he said, "How about this? My Li Family''s saltpeter ice-making and the wine brewing business can be done together with the Zhangsun Family. The profits will still be split as previously discussed, sixty-forty, but the Zhangsun Family must agree to one condition from my Li Family."


    "What condition?"


    Zhangsun Nanchao''s eyes narrowed slightly as she said, "Is Young Master Li only willing to share these two businesses with the Zhangsun Family? My family wants more!"


    "One must eat one bite at a time; everything is difficult at the beginning, and we must take the first step."


    Li Ziye said with a smile, "The condition I''m talking about is that the Zhangsun Family must give half of your medicinal material business to the Li Family, and also provide three millennium-aged Medicine Kings as a gift to commemorate our cooperation!"


    Upon hearing the young man''s terms, Zhangsun Nanchao, still not fully recovered, trembled, her delicate hand clenched tightly, barely restraining herself from lashing out.


    Half of the medicinal material business, plus three millennium-aged Medicine Kings!


    Was this kid planning a robbery?


    "Half of the medicinal material business is impossible, and we don''t have any Medicine Kings!"


    Zhangsun Nanchao suppressed the irritation in her heart and said, "Your terms are too excessive. Not to mention half, even ten percent is impossible. As for the Medicine Kings, do you think they''re as common as radishes? They''re rare and not something you can just demand. Our Zhangsun Family has been in the medicinal material business for many years and has rarely seen them."


    "Then there''s no way to proceed. Let''s call it quits. Sister Nanchao, please return, I won''t see you out."


    Li Ziye''s expression changed instantly, faster than flipping a book. He sat down on the bed, indolently saying one sentence, refusing to see her off.


    Zhangsun Nanchao was dumbfounded by the speed at which the young man changed his face.


    This was too realistic!


    Moments ago, they were talking and laughing, and in the blink of an eye, he turned his face and became unrecognizable.


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    Sitting leisurely on the bed, Li Ziye hummed a tune, with a provoking expression that seemed to say, "What can you do to me?"


    Zhangsun Nanchao was so angry she gritted her teeth, yet she couldn''t really do anything to this young man.


    The most crucial point was that her Zhangsun Family truly wanted to reach a business agreement with the Li Family.


    "Young Master Li!"


    Suppressing the urge to strike, Zhangsun Nanchao spoke, "Everything is negotiable. How about this: the Zhangsun Family will give ten percent of our medicinal material business to the Li Family. As for the Medicine Kings, we really don''t have any right now. You can propose another condition."


    "Forty percent!"


    Li Ziye said leisurely, "As for the Medicine Kings, let''s make a discount, two of them!"


    "One and a half percent! No more."


    Zhangsun Nanchao said sternly, "We really don''t have any Medicine Kings."


    "Thirty percent!"


    Li Ziye waggled three fingers and said, "As for the Medicine Kings, you''ll have to figure it out yourselves!"


    Zhangsun Nanchao clenched and unclenched her delicate hand, her chest heaving with anger, and her already sickly complexion turned even paler.


    After a long while, Zhangsun Nanchao forcefully suppressed the turmoil in her heart and said through gritted teeth, "Twenty percent of the share, one Medicine King, and if you utter another word of nonsense, I''ll leave right now."


    "Deal!"


    Li Ziye grinned broadly and immediately stood up, saying, "Sister Nanchao, come, let me escort you out."


    Zhangsun Nanchao was speechless. This man was too realistic!


    Before long, in front of the Li residence, the two walked out talking and laughing, seemingly enjoying each other''s company.


    "Auntie!"


    Outside the Li Garden, Zhangsun Fengyu saw the two emerge and immediately approached, concern on his face as he said, "Are you alright?"


    "I''m fine."


    Zhangsun Nanchao shook her head slightly in response.


    Zhangsun Fengyu then breathed a sigh of relief, his gaze shifting to the legitimate son of the Li Family beside him, his eyes narrowing slightly as he said, "Brother Dazhuang, we meet again."


    "Brother Erniu is also in good health!"


    Li Ziye, not one to be outdone, returned the fake smile and retorted directly.


    The two exchanged glances, their eyes clashing fiercely, and after a moment, they both smiled knowingly and extended their hands.


    "Li Ziye!"


    "Zhangsun Fengyu!"


    The two shook hands and quickly parted ways.


    Zhangsun Fengyu helped his ailing aunt into the carriage, preparing to return to their residence.


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    Before departing, Zhangsun Nanchao lifted the carriage curtain and looked at the young man in front of the Li Garden. Her beautiful, sickly face revealed a bright yet dangerous smile.


    "Young Master Li, I enjoyed our outing on the lake today. When will you invite me again?"


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 Chapter 40 – Confucian Scholars Thoughts

    In front of Li Garden, the enchanting smile of Zhangsun Nanqiao before leaving kept echoing in Li Ziye''s mind, lingering for a long time.


    Demon!


    Li Ziye shook his head hard to shake off the distracting thoughts.


    After a day of turmoil, he finally gained something.


    Li Ziye turned and walked into the mansion, a faint smile on his lips.


    He had made his move, now it was up to the Zhangsun Family to see if they could handle it.


    In the capital city, as the sun was setting and the afterglow was sprinkling, the entire city appeared somewhat ancient and quaint.


    On the streets, in the carriages passing by, Zhangsun Fengyu looked at his quiet and silent aunt in front of him and asked with concern, "Aunt, is there something on your mind?"


    "Just now, the Li Family offered a condition for cooperation."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao rubbed her slightly aching head and said, "They want a 20% share of the Zhangsun Family''s medicinal herb business, plus a thousand-year Medicine King plant."


    "Damn!"


    Zhangsun Fengyu almost couldn''t help but curse at the words, "The Li Family is too greedy. The Zhangsun Family has established its business in medicinal herbs, with shops all over the Great Shang Dynasty. Do they know how huge a 20% share is? Why doesn''t the Li Family go and grab it themselves? And they still want a thousand-year Medicine King. Do they think the Medicine King is a radish? Where are we supposed to find it for them!"


    At this point, Zhangsun Fengyu looked at the person in front of him and said in astonishment, "Aunt, you won''t agree, will you?"


    "I agreed."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao nodded and said, "The Zhangsun Family needs a partner like the Li Family."


    Others may not be clear, but she understood very well that the Zhangsun Family''s business had reached a bottleneck. Similarly, the Merchant Alliance and the Yin Family Money House were also troubled by this. The competition among the three families, whether open or hidden, was becoming increasingly intense. To break this deadlock, they had to rely on the Li Family''s support.


    "But we don''t have the Medicine King that the Li Family wants," Zhangsun Fengyu said in a firm voice.


    "We do."


    A hint of a different color flashed in Zhangsun Nanqiao''s eyes as she said, "You''ve forgotten. The team from the Divine Temple is about to arrive in the capital city, and among the gifts they bring, there is a thousand-year Medicine King."


    "The Divine Temple?"


    Zhangsun Fengyu asked in surprise, "But how can we have a say in the Divine Temple''s things?"


    "We can''t, but your aunt, the queen of the Great Shang, can."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said calmly, "The gifts that the Divine Temple presents to the court will ultimately be distributed by His Majesty. According to custom, His Majesty will select a few items to reward the palace and the meritorious officials in the court. Your second aunt, as the mistress of the palace, can choose one or two gifts in advance."


    Zhangsun Fengyu was taken aback and then extended his thumb, admiringly said, "It''s your cleverness, Aunt!"


    "It''s not my cleverness, it''s the heir of the Li Family."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao said lightly, "Fengyu, you must learn well. This child''s thoughts are so deep that even I find it headache-inducing."


    "Are you saying that Li Ziye''s original purpose was the Medicine King from the Divine Temple?" Zhangsun Fengyu asked in shock.


    "Yes."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao nodded with a solemn expression and said, "I was also puzzled all along why the Li Family''s heir had such a big change in attitude before and after. It wasn''t until just now that I figured it out. The reason the Li Family changed their minds and agreed to cooperate with our Zhangsun Family is because they have their eyes on the Medicine King brought by Yan Xiaoyu. And our Zhangsun Family is just a pawn that the Li Family''s heir needs to achieve his goal."


    "To use our Zhangsun Family, Li Ziye has a lot of nerve."


    Zhangsun Fengyu''s expression darkened and he said, "He even calculated my second aunt into it."


    If the Zhangsun Family wanted to obtain the Medicine King, they would have to ask the queen of the Great Shang to intervene. The thoughts of the Li Family''s heir were so deep.


    "Young people are formidable."


    Zhangsun Nanqiao sighed softly and said, "Fengyu, you are the hope of our Zhangsun Family in the future. You must not lose to him."


    Zhangsun Fengyu smiled awkwardly. Judging from the scheming shown by the heir of the Li Family today, he really didn''t have much confidence.


    Just as the two of them were feeling a bit tricky about Li Ziye''s scheming, in the Li Family''s courtyard, someone was fawning over the handsome Little Red Riding Hood for guidance.


    Bai Wangyu was so harassed that he had no choice but to help study the body technique of the Flying Immortal Technique together.


    "Three steps to the left, yes, yes, lean!"


    In the west wing, Bai Wangyu instructed Li Ziye in martial arts. After nearly an hour, he couldn''t help but burst out, spitting out a fragrant smell.


    To force the senior brother of the Confucian School, who was so perfect in cultivation and temperament, to curse, Li Ziye could be said to be the number one person in the world today.


    "Bang!"


    Because of a problem with his footwork, without any suspense, Li Ziye flew out again and hit the apricot tree in the courtyard.


    The apricot tree shook, and the leaves rustled down.


    "Old Bai, help me down!"


    Stuck in the branches of the apricot tree, Li Ziye struggled and shouted loudly.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu really wanted to pretend not to hear and let this kid get stuck and die.If I teach him again, I''m afraid I''ll be driven to death by him.


    "Crack!"


    On the apricot tree, perhaps Li Ziye struggled fiercely, and the sound of the broken branches rang out.


    Very abrupt.


    Very harsh.


    Li Ziye''s body stiffened and dared not move again.


    Not far away, Bai Wangyu also froze, forgetting to go to the rescue.


    "Bang!"


    Then, a loud noise.


    The branches broke, and Li Ziye fell directly, slapping the ground like a sandbag.


    Face down.


    "Brother Li, I have something to do, you practice on your own."


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu, struggling to hold back his laughter, said in a loud voice, then quickly walked away.


    In the west wing, it was quiet. After three breaths, Li Ziye suddenly jumped up, blood flowing from his nose, his eyes filled with anger.


    "Bai Wangyu, fuck you!"


    "Haha!"


    Outside the west wing, Bai Wangyu finally couldn''t help it and burst into laughter.


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    Heaven has eyes.


    "Master Bai, there is a Confucian scholar from the Imperial Academy outside who claims to be looking for you."


    At this moment, a servant boy hurriedly walked to the front of the west wing, with a respectful expression.


    "From the Imperial Academy?"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Wangyu''s expression changed, and he quickly walked towards the mansion''s entrance.


    In front of Li Garden, a young man in a Confucian robe was waiting. When he saw the eldest senior brother come out, he showed a happy expression and said, "Eldest Senior Brother."


    "Why are you here? What''s the matter?" Bai Wangyu asked.


    The young man respectfully saluted and said, "It''s the order of the Confucian Scholar, asking Eldest Senior Brother to return to the Imperial Academy."


    "The order of the Confucian Scholar."


    Bai Wangyu''s expression changed, and without delay, he said, "Then let''s go."


    After speaking, the two of them set off and headed towards the direction of the Imperial Academy.


    Inside Li Garden, Li Ziye heard that Little Red Riding Hood had left and looked puzzled. What happened?


    Why did the Confucian School suddenly summon Little Red Riding Hood back?


    Don''t let him go. Without this golden-handed thug, how can he roam the entire map?


    In the small courtyard on the east side of the Imperial Academy.


    As the sunset faded, the last ray of twilight fell into the courtyard. An old man tidied up the vegetable garden and straightened his already very old body.


    "See the Confucian Scholar!"


    Outside the small courtyard, Bai Wangyu walked over alone and respectfully saluted.


    "How is your interaction with the third son of the Li Family?" Kong Qiu asked as he put down his hoe.


    "Brother Li is intelligent and extraordinary. I have gained a lot from being with Brother Li these days," Bai Wangyu answered seriously.


    "Good."


    Kong Qiu nodded and said, "Although the third son of the Li Family has shallow cultivation, he is adept at human affairs. This is also what you lack. You should learn more from him while being by his side."


    "Yes!" Bai Wangyu respectfully agreed.


    "Yan Xiaoyu from the Hall of Heavenly Prophecy is coming to the capital city. Do you know about this?" Kong Qiu asked.


    "I know," Bai Wangyu replied.


    "You have fought with Yan Xiaoyu before, so you have some understanding of him. How long do you think it will take for Li Ziye to catch up with him in martial arts progress?" Kong Qiu asked calmly.


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and then truthfully said, "He won''t catch up."


    Kong Qiu nodded and said, "Then you should help him."


    "Yes!"


    Bai Wangyu respectfully agreed without even asking why.


    "Don''t you want to know the reason why I asked you to help him?" Kong Qiu asked.


    "The decision of the Confucian Scholar has its reasons," Bai Wangyu replied.


    "Respecting teachers and valuing morals are your strengths."


    Kong Qiu sighed softly and said, "But it is also your weakness. In this world, no one''s decision is always correct. You need to learn to question, even if the object of your questioning is your teacher, the Confucian law, or even me!"


    Bai Wangyu''s face changed in surprise and quickly bowed respectfully, saying, "Disciple dare not!"


    "What''s there to be afraid of?"


    Kong Qiu looked at the future successor of the Confucian School outside the courtyard and said calmly, "Wangyu, from the beginning until now, have you never thought about stepping into this courtyard?"


    Bai Wangyu''s body trembled, and for a long time, he clenched his hands and tried to take the first step.


    However, the oppressive force accumulated by the Confucian Scholar for many years made the steps taken by this senior brother of the Confucian School retract.


    Seeing this, Kong Qiu sighed again.


    What he wanted was not the respect of the world, but questioning.


    Authority is meant to be broken.


    Whether it''s people, martial arts, or classics.


    Outside the small courtyard, Bai Wangyu stood there, looking guilty, and said, "I have disappointed the Confucian Scholar."


    "It''s not your fault."


    Kong Qiu sighed and said, "It''s my fault. I wanted to educate the people, but I didn''t expect to bind you with rituals and laws. Wangyu, this is also the reason why I asked you to follow the third son of the Li Family. Remember, in this world, there are no saints. You need to learn to judge right and wrong with your own heart."


    "Yes!"


    Bai Wangyu replied softly.Kong Qiu nodded and said, "In a few days, the envoys from the Heavenly Edict Hall will arrive. If my calculations are correct, there will be a clash between the third son of the Li Family and Yan Xiaoyu. Continue to stay by Li Ziye''s side and, when necessary, shield him from those hidden arrows."


    "Disciple obeys the Confucian Scholar''s decree," Bai Wangyu respectfully accepted the command.


    "Very well, you may leave now."


    After giving his instructions, Kong Qiu did not say more. He waved his hand and said.


    "Disciple takes his leave."


    Bai Wangyu bowed respectfully once more and then turned to leave.


    "In fact, this young man is already quite outstanding."


    Just after Bai Wangyu had left, Qin E''nuo walked out in the small courtyard and spoke calmly.


    "He still falls short compared to your disciple."


    Kong Qiu replied evenly, "In terms of discernment for accepting disciples, the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal is far more astute than this old man."


    "I accept such praise without reservation," Qin E''nuo said unabashedly, accepting the compliment. She seemed to selectively forget the moment when she learned the truth about Li Ziye''s inability to practice martial arts and almost wished she could slap herself...

 Chapter 41 – Yan Xiaoyu

    Li Yuan, the sky gradually darkened, and the bright moon rose.


    In the front yard, Li Ziye was still anxiously waiting, looking worried and lost, as if he had just been through a breakup.


    It wasn''t until the bright moon hung high in the starry sky that a figure in a white Confucian robe walked in from outside the Li Yuan, with a handsome face and extraordinary temperament.


    Seeing the newcomer, Li Ziye immediately greeted him excitedly.


    "Old Bai, I thought you weren''t coming back."


    Li Ziye grabbed Old Bai''s hand, feeling so moved that he was almost in tears.


    It must be that Old Bai couldn''t bear to leave him, so he insisted on coming back.


    Old Bai suppressed his nausea, tried to pull his hand away, failed, and then pulled it away forcefully.


    "The Confucian Scholar wanted to see me, so I went back for a visit."


    As he spoke, Old Bai discreetly wiped the hand that Li Ziye had grabbed, afraid of catching something.


    "The Confucian Scholar wanted to see you?"


    Li Ziye didn''t notice Old Bai''s actions and asked curiously, "Is there something urgent? If you need my help, just tell me."


    "It''s nothing, just a few words of advice, asking me to learn more from Brother Li and observe more," Old Bai said calmly.


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    "Learn from me?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback at the words, wondering if he had misheard.


    Other people''s children wanted to learn from him?


    Old Li, did you hear that? Your son has made it!


    "The Confucian Scholar is truly perceptive, able to see the strengths that ordinary people can''t," Li Ziye said, patting Old Bai''s shoulder, "Study well, and I will patiently teach you."


    "..."


    Old Bai was speechless. He had indeed learned a lot, such as having a thick skin.


    "Go to sleep, I''ve been waiting for you all night, and I''m exhausted!"


    Seeing Old Bai return unharmed, Li Ziye also felt relieved, waved his hand, and then turned to walk back into the inner courtyard.


    "Brother Li."


    Old Bai called out from behind.


    "Yes?"


    Li Ziye stopped and turned back, puzzled. "What is it?"


    "To Brother Li, what is the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal?" Old Bai asked seriously.


    "My master," Li Ziye replied.


    "Have you ever doubted whether what the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal taught you, or the path she arranged for you, is wrong?" Old Bai continued to ask.


    "Never!"


    Li Ziye shook his head vigorously, "I am someone who respects my master and the Dao, how could I doubt my Immortal master? Everything she says is right!"


    "Brother Li, I want to hear the truth," Old Bai asked seriously.


    Looking at the serious expression on Old Bai''s face, Li Ziye was first surprised, then grinned, "Doubt? Not only did I doubt, there were several times when I couldn''t help but ask about her relatives, but in the end, the outcome was a bit tragic. I was beaten by Old Qin so badly that I couldn''t even recognize my own father. Old Bai, you''re acting strange today, why are you asking these questions?"


    "It''s nothing."


    Old Bai shook his head, "It''s late, Brother Li, go rest."


    "Weird."


    Li Ziye was speechless and turned to leave.


    Old Bai watched Li Ziye''s back, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.


    Now, he understood why the Confucian Scholar wanted him to follow Brother Li.


    He could see that Brother Li cared a lot about the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, and respected her deeply.


    But Brother Li wouldn''t blindly follow every arrangement made by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, and dared to question her. In this regard, he was indeed not as good as Brother Li.


    He would do his best to learn.


    In return, he would also strictly follow the Confucian Scholar''s orders and help Brother Li improve his strength.


    With that in mind, Old Bai walked towards the west wing, ready to study the third move of the Immortal Flying Technique.


    The bright moon shone high, and under the night sky, in the inner courtyard and the west wing, two people, both holding swords, both with determined gazes, practiced over and over again.


    Li Ziye didn''t sleep. He believed that diligence could make up for his lack of skill. If he couldn''t do it once, he would practice ten times. If ten times didn''t work, he would practice a hundred times, a thousand times!


    Old Bai didn''t sleep either, spending the whole night helping Li Ziye study the third move of the Immortal Flying Technique, his righteous spirit shining brighter than the bright moon.


    Two people, two swords, cutting through one sharp cold light after another, simultaneously, in sync, thrilling.


    At the same time, on the west side of the Great Shang Capital, the Divine Temple team traveled day and night, getting closer and closer to the capital.


    Seven days later, in front of the west city gate, the sound of horse hooves resounded as the Divine Temple team, which had been on the road for many days, finally arrived.


    Outside the city gate, the Third Prince Mu Yao personally led several courtiers from the Ministry of Rites to greet the Divine Temple team, giving the Divine Temple plenty of face.


    The Great Shang Dynasty was built on martial strength, but it never lacked in the etiquette of a great nation.


    As the Divine Temple team entered the city, many commoners came to the streets out of curiosity to see the commotion.


    In the past decade, although there had been occasional friction between the Great Shang Dynasty and the Divine Temple, overall, there was still peace.


    So, the common people of Great Shang didn''t harbor any hostility towards the envoys from the Divine Temple who were visiting this time.


    Especially since among the visitors was the legendary Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu, which made the people of Great Shang even more curious, wanting to see what the Divine Child looked like.


    Of course, among these bored people was the even more bored Li Ziye, dragging along Old Bai, who didn''t want to come.


    On both sides of the street, behind the crowd, after waiting for a long time, Old Bai, seeing that the Divine Temple team had not yet appeared, didn''t want to continue waiting. He spoke up, "Brother Li, I''ve already seen that Yan Xiaoyu and even fought with him. I''m going back first!"


    "Don''t go!"


    Li Ziye grabbed the former, "Since we''re here, let''s watch the excitement before leaving."


    "Why is Brother Li so interested in Yan Xiaoyu?"


    Old Bai asked in confusion. Based on his understanding of Brother Li, even if Yan Xiaoyu looked like a flower, as long as he was a man, Brother Li wouldn''t be interested.


    After spending these days together, he had some understanding of Brother Li''s personality and hobbies.


    "I''m not interested in Yan Xiaoyu, I''m interested in my medicinal herb. I want to keep an eye on it, or else if it gets lost, I''ll have nowhere to cry," Li Ziye said.Li Ziye explained while on tiptoes, peering towards the end of the street, "Why hasn''t the Divine Temple''s procession arrived yet? Could they be having a meal outside the city?"


    "Why is Brother Li so concerned about this Medicine King? I really don''t understand," Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but ask again.


    "Of course, it''s of great use!"


    Li Ziye glanced at the little red cap beside him, thought for a moment, and said, "Well, I can tell you, but you mustn''t tell anyone else."


    After spending some time together, he felt that the little red cap was quite good, and it wouldn''t hurt to share the secret with him.


    "I won''t tell anyone else," Bai Wangyu nodded with a curious face, agreeing.


    "Actually."


    Li Ziye looked around, lowered his voice, and whispered, "The eight meridians in my body are blocked. I need to use external force to shatter them and then use the Medicine King to repair them, in order to reshape my extraordinary meridians."


    Upon hearing this, Bai Wangyu''s body shook, and he looked at the young man in front of him with disbelief, unable to hide his shock.


    The eight meridians are blocked?


    How could someone who was taken as a disciple by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal and so regarded by the Confucian Scholar have blocked meridians!


    Thinking of this, Bai Wangyu grabbed the other''s arm, his genuine qi probing into the meridians, and then, his expression became more and more shocked.


    Brother Li wasn''t lying.


    Of the eight meridians, six were blocked, and even the two that were open were not fully repaired, clearly having been reshaped not long ago.


    "Brother Li, you..."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man in front of him, his gaze complex, at a loss for words.


    "Keep it a secret at all costs!"


    Li Ziye whispered a reminder, "It''s not a big deal for me, but my Fairy master is someone who cares about appearances. If the world knew she took in a good-for-nothing, and it spread, Old Qin would lose face and would definitely kill me."


    "I understand."


    Bai Wangyu nodded lightly, his expression complex, and said, "Brother Li, you really have given me surprise after surprise."


    "Keep a low profile."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "After all, there are too few outstanding children like Brother Bai. In this world, there are more ordinary people like me. If you want to practice martial arts, you have to find every possible way to create conditions for yourself, by any means necessary."


    "No wonder the Confucian Scholar repeatedly instructed me to follow Brother Li closely to learn and observe. There are too many incredible things about you."


    Bai Wangyu sighed softly, from the rise of the Li Family to Brother Li successfully becoming a disciple of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, everything had exceeded people''s expectations.


    If one had to describe it with a word, it could only be a miracle!


    "I don''t know what the Confucian Scholar is thinking, but I do know that I won''t be able to sleep until I get the Medicine King brought by the Divine Temple."


    Li Ziye looked towards the end of the street, casually responding, and then his eyes lit up with excitement, "Old Bai, it''s here, my Medicine King is here!"


    Upon hearing this, Bai Wangyu also looked over.


    At the end of the street, the rumble of carriages and the clanking of armor could be heard. The Third Prince and officials from the Honglu Temple led the way, with the Divine Temple''s procession following. At the very front, the Divine Temple''s iron cavalry were wrapped in silver armor, revealing only their eyes, their awe-inspiring aura shocking.


    And in the middle of the procession, a young man dressed in a moon-white robe, with handsome features and starry eyes, sat in the carriage, his lips curved in a warm smile like the morning sun, his noble demeanor even surpassing that of the princes of Great Shang.


    Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu, the Unparalleled Arrogance of the young generation in the human world, had arrived in the Capital City of Shang.


    "Overflowing with dominance!"


    From the back of the crowd, Li Ziye watched Yan Xiaoyu on the carriage and fairly uttered four words.


    In terms of appearance, this Divine Child was indeed not bad.


    Almost catching up to him and the little red cap.


    Within the Divine Temple''s procession, Yan Xiaoyu felt the worshipful and envious gazes of the citizens of Great Shang, his lips curving slightly. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Great Shang, a nation abandoned by the God of Light, its citizens were all faithless fools, incomparable to his Divine Oracle Temple.


    Under the adoring gazes of the crowd, suddenly, Yan Xiaoyu''s expression became solemn as he felt a particular gaze from the crowd and immediately looked over.


    Their eyes met for a brief moment, and Yan Xiaoyu''s brows furrowed slightly.


    Strange, who is this person? His aura is truly uncomfortable, with an indescribable sense of discord.


    From the back of the crowd, Li Ziye saw Yan Xiaoyu''s gaze and grinned.


    My Medicine King has finally arrived, thanks to the generous young master!


    On the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the other''s smile, feeling an increasing disgust.


    Where did this fool come from!

 Chapter 42 – Conflict

    In the capital city street, Li Ziye and Yan Xiaoyu met for the first time, and it didn''t seem very friendly.


    At least, Yan Xiaoyu didn''t like Li Ziye very much.


    Of course, Li Ziye didn''t like Yan Xiaoyu either, or rather, he disliked all men who were more handsome than him.


    Except for the lovely Little Red Riding Hood.


    In the middle of the street, the procession of the Divine Temple rumbled past. Beside the carriage, the high priestess of the Divine Temple, Liu Rongn¨¹, walked silently. If it weren''t for the conspicuous red robe, no one would believe that this withered old person was actually an unparalleled expert who had opened five divine hidden techniques.


    "Liu Rongn¨¹."


    Behind the crowd, Bai Wangyu saw the old man beside Yan Xiaoyu''s carriage at first sight, and his expression became serious.


    "Is that old man the high priest of the Divine Temple?"


    Li Ziye followed Little Red Riding Hood''s gaze and then asked in surprise.


    It really didn''t look like it. This old man''s appearance was not even as good as his family''s Sword Enthusiast, Slovenly Zhang.


    "Brother Li, keep your voice down!"


    Bai Wangyu''s expression changed slightly at the words and said, "The great cultivators of the Fifth Realm have far superior perception. They can hear what we say."


    Sure enough, as soon as the two finished speaking, Liu Rongn¨¹''s gaze turned towards them, and a dazzling light burst from her old eyes.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu''s expression changed, and he pulled Li Ziye behind him, and a powerful righteous aura surged around him.


    "Boom!"


    The next moment, a violent impact erupted. Bai Wangyu''s body shook, and he took a step back, a trace of blood quietly sliding from the corner of Little Red Riding Hood''s mouth.


    "Old Bai!"


    Seeing this, Li Ziye''s expression changed, and he stepped forward. When he saw the bloodstain at the corner of Little Red Riding Hood''s mouth, a rare hint of anger appeared on his face. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Too much!


    Li Ziye''s gaze turned to Liu Rongn¨¹ in the Divine Temple procession, and his eyes blazed with anger, his fists clenched tightly.


    How dare they be so arrogant in his Great Shang? The Divine Temple was truly lawless.


    "Oh?"


    Beside the carriage, Liu Rongn¨¹ felt the young man''s angry gaze and showed a look of surprise. She knew that he was a great cultivator of the Fifth Realm, yet he dared to respond so brazenly. This kid had some courage.


    On the carriage, at this moment, Yan Xiaoyu also recognized Bai Wangyu''s appearance, and a strange smile appeared on the corner of his mouth.


    So, it''s the senior disciple of the Confucian School. I didn''t expect him to be here too.


    "Brother Li, don''t."


    Behind the crowd, Bai Wangyu reached out and grabbed Li Ziye, shaking his head and saying softly, "We were rude first. The envoys of the Divine Temple have come from afar as guests, and we must not be disrespectful."


    Li Ziye frowned lightly at the words, then withdrew his gaze, and said with an unprecedented seriousness, "Old Bai, I promise you that I will help you get back today''s situation in the future, and I will not let you suffer this loss in vain."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the unprecedentedly serious expression on the young man''s face in front of him, and was first stunned. After a moment, a gentle smile appeared on his face, and he said, "I believe in you, Brother Li."


    A breeze blew by, and the two of them simultaneously withdrew their gazes. The solemn atmosphere that had just been established was instantly shattered.


    Disgusting!


    Li Ziye pinched his thigh, feeling scared. Was he going to bend?


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu''s mouth twitched, silently reciting the scriptures of the sages.


    "Forget it, etiquette is for civilized people. Since others are uncivilized, why bother with etiquette."


    At this moment, an old voice sounded in everyone''s ears, like thunder, shocking everyone present.


    "Confucian Scholar!"


    At this moment, everyone, including the Third Prince, Liu Rongn¨¹, and Yan Xiaoyu, had their expressions changed.


    After hearing this voice, Bai Wangyu''s expression also became serious, and he immediately bowed as a disciple.


    "What''s wrong, what''s wrong?"


    Only Li Ziye didn''t understand what was going on. Where did this voice come from, and why did these people react so strongly?


    The next moment, a surging righteous aura erupted between heaven and earth, and a powerful force exploded.


    "Poof!"


    In the Divine Temple procession, Liu Rongn¨¹ spat out a mouthful of blood and took several steps back.


    At once, everyone present was shocked.


    The Third Prince Mu Yao and the Divine Child Yan Xiaoyu looked towards the direction of the Imperial Academy, their faces filled with astonishment.


    They really didn''t expect the Confucian Scholar to make a move here.


    "Liu Rongn¨¹, you''re so old, yet you''re still so petty. Bullying two juniors, don''t you feel ashamed!"


    Under the shocked gazes of everyone, the voice of the Confucian Scholar resounded, echoing between heaven and earth.


    "Confucian Scholar!"


    Liu Rongn¨¹ stabilized her figure, wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth, and clenched her fists.


    Behind the crowd, Li Ziye also realized who had made the move at this moment, and an excited look appeared on his face.


    The big shot is finally going to show up. Is he going to take over everything?


    Fight!


    Fight!


    He could take advantage of the chaos to snatch his Medicine King.


    And ask the Confucian Scholar if Old Qin is in the Imperial Academy.


    However, to Li Ziye''s disappointment, after the Confucian Scholar reprimanded Liu Rongn¨¹, he did not continue to make a move, nor did he show any intention of appearing.


    And Liu Rongn¨¹ didn''t dare to provoke him in the slightest, swallowing her anger and saying nothing more.


    The Divine Temple procession silently continued forward, clearly much more restrained this time.


    "Confucian Scholar, where is my master? Please let her go!"


    Seeing that the conflict didn''t erupt and the Confucian Scholar didn''t show up, Li Ziye became a little anxious and shouted towards the direction of the Imperial Academy.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu was startled and quickly pulled the young man beside him, indicating that he shouldn''t be disrespectful.


    Everyone present looked over after hearing Li Ziye''s shout.


    Liu Rongn¨¹ remained silent and didn''t dare to make any further moves.


    On the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the young man beside Bai Wangyu and furrowed his brow again. Who is this person, and how dare he speak to the Confucian Scholar like that?Moreover, Bai Wangyu had always been protecting him, suggesting an unusual relationship. Could it be that this youth was a member of the Great Shang Royal Family?


    However, each prince of the Great Shang had their records in the Divine Temple, and he had seen their portraits; this person did not seem to be among them.


    If not a prince, could he be a noble relative of the emperor or the heir of a Martial King?


    Yan Xiaoyu''s mind raced with thoughts, but he couldn''t figure out the identity of the youth beside Bai Wangyu.


    Amidst the crowd, Li Ziye felt the gazes of the people around him but remained indifferent, his eyes fixed on the direction of the Imperial Academy, awaiting the Confucian Scholar''s response.


    He was genuinely worried about his Fairy master.


    However, the Confucian Scholar seemed not to have heard Li Ziye''s questioning and did not respond.


    Anxious, Li Ziye grew impatient.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu saw Li Ziye about to explode and quickly grabbed him, saying, "Brother Li, the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal should be fine, don''t worry!"


    "Confucian Scholar!"


    Ignoring the little red hat''s persuasion, Li Ziye continued to shout, "Give me an answer!"


    On the streets, the crowd looked at the somewhat crazed youth at the back with puzzled expressions.


    Who was this person, mad enough to be so disrespectful to the Confucian Scholar?


    Amidst the attention of the crowd, Li Ziye anxiously awaited the Confucian Scholar''s response.


    He believed the Confucian Scholar could hear him, but why was there no answer? Could it be that something had really happened to his Fairy master?


    The more he thought, the more worried and fearful he became, until Li Ziye could no longer hold back and, shaking off Bai Wangyu''s hand, he shouted angrily, "Old man, can''t you even fart?"


    The street fell silent in an instant.


    Even the people in the Divine Temple procession were startled and stopped in their tracks.


    Beside Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu''s face turned pale with fear, sweating coldly, worried that the Confucian Scholar would strike and slap this fellow to death.


    In the Imperial Academy, within the small courtyard to the east.


    Kong Qiu, upon hearing Li Ziye''s disrespectful words, couldn''t help but laugh and said, "Your disciple really has guts!"


    "He is a bit anxious."


    Qin E''nuo commented, feeling somewhat touched.


    She knew that although Li Ziye was lawless, he was an extremely clever person who understood the esteemed status of the Confucian Scholar.


    His loss of composure was probably due to genuine concern for her safety.


    "This young man is not bad; you haven''t misjudged him."


    Kong Qiu smiled and said, "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, you should respond yourself, don''t let your disciple worry too much."


    "Mhm."


    Qin E''nuo nodded, her delicate hand waved, and the Frost ancient sword unsheathed in response, causing the temperature to drop sharply as time seemed to freeze.


    Whoosh!


    The next moment, the Frost sword tore through the void, and a dazzling and powerful sword qi burst forth, flying towards the distance.


    Instantly, all the martial artists in the Capital City felt it, looking up at the sky with shocked expressions.


    Sword qi!


    On the street, within the Divine Temple procession, Liu Rongn¨¹ sensed the astonishing sword qi in the sky, her expression changing once again.


    The sword qi was as cold as frost; it was the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal!


    On the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu also recognized the owner of the sword, his expression becoming solemn.


    The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal was also in the Capital City of Great Shang.


    "Fairy master!"


    From behind the crowd, Li Ziye felt the familiar sword qi and showed an excited expression.


    Thank goodness, Old Qin was fine.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu also breathed a sigh of relief. With the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal unharmed, Brother Li could calm down and not continue his frenzy.


    He had been genuinely worried that the Confucian Scholar would not be able to resist slapping this youngster to death.


    "The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal has made a move, could it be that the youth is..."


    At that moment, on the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu seemed to have realized something, his gaze shifting towards Li Ziye behind the crowd, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    The legitimate son of the Li Family from Yuzhou City, Li Ziye!


    So, he was Li Ziye, the direct disciple of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal.


    My apologies.


    Yan Xiaoyu''s lips curved into a cold smile; it seemed his trip to the Capital City of Great Shang wouldn''t be too dull after all.


    Behind the crowd, knowing that Old Qin was safe, Li Ziye relaxed and calmed down, looking at the people around him with a grin, he said, "Sorry for the outburst, I have hysteria and can go mad unpredictably, please excuse my behavior."


    After speaking, Li Ziye pulled the little red hat beside him and hurriedly left.


    Embarrassing, indeed!


    At the front of the Divine Temple procession, the Third Prince Mu Yao watched Li Ziye''s departing figure, his eyes flickering with intrigue.


    This heir of the Li Family kept shattering his expectations time and again.


    Unconventional and utterly without decorum, if he couldn''t be won over, he would be a troublesome opponent indeed.


    The Yin Family Money House and the Merchant Alliance were truly useless, only knowing how to fight amongst themselves, incapable of handling even the smallest of matters.


    "Divine Child."


    Beside the carriage, Liu Rongn¨¹ spoke, her voice hoarse, "If there''s a chance, eliminate this person. I have a premonition that this child will become a great trouble for the Divine Temple in the future."


    "I understand."


    Yan Xiaoyu nodded, a dangerous glint flashing in his eyes.


    Those who do not follow the rules should not exist in this world.


    The God of Light does not like it.


    Neither does he!

 Chapter 43 – Miracles

    "Brother Li, please don''t be so reckless next time. I was almost scared to death just now," Li Yuan and Bai Wangyu looked at the young man in front of them and said with a bitter smile.


    Even now, the cold sweat behind him hadn''t dried up.


    These days, he has been frightened more times following Brother Li than in the first half of his life.


    "Calm down."


    Li Ziye patted Little Red Riding Hood''s shoulder and grinned, "The Confucian Scholar is the master of the world. How can he compare with me, a younger generation? Besides, the Confucian Scholar asked you to follow me, which means I still have value in the Imperial Academy. How could he easily dismiss me?"


    He was a little anxious, but he wasn''t stupid.


    He wouldn''t do anything to court death.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu was speechless. He admitted that the Confucian Scholar should not easily get angry over such a small matter, but Brother Li''s actions were still too shocking.


    In this world, who would dare to be so disrespectful to the Confucian Scholar?


    Even the master of the Western Regions'' Tianyu Temple, who was stunningly talented, would be polite and courteous when meeting the Confucian Scholar.


    "Old Bai, you are too polite. Putting aside the identity of the head of the Imperial Academy, the Confucian Scholar is just an ordinary old man. He''s not a ferocious beast. Do you really need to be so afraid? Besides, you are the senior brother of the Confucian School. Can he really eat you?" Li Ziye said with a hint of disdain.


    "Ahem! Ahem!"


    Bai Wangyu, upon hearing this, almost couldn''t catch his breath, his face turning red as he coughed violently, covering his mouth.


    "Old Bai, what''s wrong? Did your injury relapse?" Li Ziye, seeing the situation, stepped forward with a concerned look.


    "It''s nothing," Bai Wangyu took a deep breath and said, "Brother Li, I''m begging you, please stop. I''m really afraid that one day I won''t be able to catch my breath and you''ll have killed me in Li Yuan."


    Li Ziye looked at the former with disdain and said, "Old Bai, I despise you!"


    "Despise me. I was originally going to give you some pointers on the third move of the Flying Immortal Technique, but now it seems there''s no need," Bai Wangyu said lightly, then walked towards the western wing.


    Li Ziye was taken aback, then quickly came to his senses and said anxiously, "Old Bai, no, Brother Bai, I was wrong. The person I admire the most is you!"


    In the western wing, Li Ziye caught up and immediately noticed the changes in the wing.


    In the courtyard, red threads crisscrossed, each tied with a bell, exactly twenty-seven, the same as the number of steps in the third move of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    Obviously, this red thread formation was deliberately arranged for the third move of the Flying Immortal Technique.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye was immediately moved to tears.


    This was definitely set up by Old Bai for him. It seemed that Old Bai had spent a lot of effort to help him over the past few days.


    He promised that he would never bully Little Red Riding Hood again.


    "On this red thread formation, there are twenty-seven bells, each corresponding to one of the twenty-seven steps of the Flying Immortal Technique. You just need to practice according to the position of the bells. Each time a bell rings, it means you''ve taken a step in the right direction. In addition, these red threads are specially made and very strong, so they can help you correct your position during practice," Bai Wangyu said earnestly. He hadn''t slept for several days to prepare these things, and he had tried every step to make sure the position was correct and there were no problems.


    "Old Bai, you''re so kind. Come here for a hug," Li Ziye was extremely moved and stepped forward, reaching out with open arms.


    "Get lost!" Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but curse again. The patience and cultivation of the senior brother of the Confucian School had been almost worn away over the past few days.


    Li Ziye withdrew his hands with a thick skin, acting as if nothing had happened, then walked to the first bell and began to practice.


    "Ding!"


    Li Ziye''s figure shot out, and the moment he touched the first bell, it rang.


    Then the second, the third.


    After practicing for several days, Li Ziye was able to take ten steps, but beyond that, not only did the consumption of true energy increase sharply, but the control of his body also became increasingly difficult.


    Sure enough, after the tenth bell rang, Li Ziye''s body once again flew out uncontrollably.


    "Use the red thread to find the right position!" Bai Wangyu immediately shouted upon seeing this.


    Among the crisscrossing red threads, Li Ziye heard Little Red Riding Hood''s reminder and, in mid-air, turned back, using the power of the red thread to return to the original position.


    "Ding!"


    Finally, the bell rang again, and Li Ziye took the eleventh step, breaking through his own limits.


    "Don''t be afraid of making mistakes. Walk all twenty-seven steps first and let your body remember these positions!" Bai Wangyu reminded again outside the red thread formation.


    "Okay!"


    In the red thread, Li Ziye responded, and his speed became faster and faster, and the number of times he flew out also increased.


    However, each time, Li Ziye would use the red thread to pull himself back to the correct position.After countless attempts, Li Ziye finally stumbled through all twenty-seven steps, with dozens or even hundreds of cuts on his body.


    "Ding!"


    The final bell rang, and Li Ziye plopped down on the ground, then lay down panting, too tired to move a finger.


    "I''m exhausted!"


    Just twenty-seven steps completely drained all the Genuine Qi in Li Ziye''s Divine Hidden Technique. If it weren''t for the red lines helping him, he wouldn''t have been able to complete those steps.


    "How was it?"


    Bai Wangyu walked over and said seriously, "When you can complete these twenty-seven steps without external help, then you will have truly succeeded."


    "Old Bai, you''re a genius. I envy you."


    Li Ziye lay on the ground, panting, feeling like everyone else''s children were so outstanding, while he was like the village head''s useless son, unable to do anything right and always causing trouble.


    "I''m two years older than you, have read more books, and have a deeper understanding of martial arts. In fact, Brother Li, you are smarter than me," Bai Wangyu said to comfort him, afraid that the young man in front of him would lose confidence in martial arts.


    "I feel the same way."


    Li Ziye responded immodestly. He thought he was quite clever.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu felt that his comfort was unnecessary.


    He really wanted to step on this kid''s face and see if his skin was thicker than the sole of his shoe.


    "I''ve decided to practice diligently, then punch Huo Lin''er and kick Yan Xiaoyu. I''ll be invincible and renowned throughout the Nine Provinces."


    On the ground, Li Ziye fantasized about a future scene, and his smile became more and more twisted.


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man in front of him as if he were an idiot. He really doubted whether this kid had damaged his brain from practicing martial arts.


    "Squeak!"


    Li Ziye took out several hundred-year-old ginseng from his pocket and started gnawing on it like a radish, saying unclearly, "Old Bai, does the Imperial Academy have any potent medicine to quickly restore Genuine Qi? Sell me some, I can''t swallow this stuff." Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but twitch his mouth. The Li Family''s arrogance was truly eye-opening. He gnawed on the potent medicine as if it were free, just like a radish.


    After eating several ginseng roots, Li Ziye''s Genuine Qi also recovered, so he jumped up and prepared to continue practicing.


    "This Flying Immortal Technique is extremely exquisite. If you can master the third move at the first level, you will be the first person in a thousand years, apart from the first Sword God," Bai Wangyu said solemnly. "Within three years, if you want to catch up to Huo Lin''er, you must continue to create miracles. You must take this first step."


    "I understand."


    Li Ziye''s gaze also became serious at the words, nodding in agreement. Then he stepped forward again, leaping out once more.


    "Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!"


    Then, a series of bell sounds rang out. In the crisscrossing red lines, Li Ziye''s figure moved faster and faster, and at the same time, the wounds on his body became more and more numerous.


    The red lines were very tough, allowing Li Ziye to borrow strength. However, because the speed was too fast, every time he flew out, he would be cut by the red lines, and blood would appear.


    In this world, except for a very few geniuses, anyone needs to put in a hundred percent effort to achieve fifty percent results.


    Li Ziye''s talent and genius were completely non-existent. In Li Qingzhi''s words, he was a waste, so if he didn''t work hard, how could he catch up to Unparalleled Arrogance like Huo Lin''er and Yan Xiaoyu?


    We are bit.ly/3iBfjkV, find us on google.


    Outside the red lines, Bai Wangyu watched the young man in front of him sweating profusely in silence.


    He wondered, if it were him, with eight blocked meridians and unable to practice martial arts, could he be as relentless as Brother Li, fighting for the path of martial arts, even if he knew he would end up with a head full of blood, and give it his all without regret?


    Perhaps he couldn''t do it, not because he was afraid of hardship, but because he didn''t have the courage to go all in.


    "Bang!"


    After who knows how long of practicing and how many attempts, in the red line formation, a red line finally reached its limit and broke, causing Li Ziye''s body to fly out of control and crash into the wall of the west wing.


    Then, Li Ziye''s body fell to the ground like a piece of paper.


    Bai Wangyu silently stepped forward, replaced the broken red line with a new one.


    Under the wall, Li Ziye took out a potent medicine and started gnawing on it again, with a mouth full of medicine residue, his face contorted in bitterness.


    He really couldn''t swallow it!


    As the sun set in the west and the moon and stars appeared, Li Ziye continued to practice in the west wing, with Little Red Hat by his side, occasionally giving him pointers and correcting the various strange errors of this martial arts novice.Until the moon hung high and directly overhead, Li Ziye finally became so exhausted that he couldn''t even crawl, lying on the ground, completely immobile.


    Thus, Bai Wangyu dragged Li Ziye like a pig to the stone steps in front of the room.


    "Old Bai, I think I can make it."


    Li Ziye lay on the stone steps, looking up at the starry sky, grinning with a smile.


    Although his progress was still slow, he clearly saw hope.


    He really had to thank Little Red Riding Hood.


    He felt that Little Red Riding Hood was an angel, with wings, the kind that twinkled.


    Even if fate had closed a door on him and welded shut a window, he could still dig out a tunnel with the help of Little Red Riding Hood, his Fairy master, and Slovenly Zhang.


    With such lovely friends and family, the heavens hadn''t treated him too harshly.


    Lost in thought, Li Ziye fell into a deep, exhausted sleep, a contented smile on his face.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu sat quietly, silent.


    To tell the truth, before this, he had never thought that Brother Li could really succeed.


    After all, the cultivation method of the Flying Immortal Art was incredibly difficult; for a thousand years, countless prodigies had no choice but to give up and switch to other martial arts.


    But after today, he might have started to believe.


    Brother Li was the one who could create miracles!


    He was looking forward to the day when the sword techniques of the original Sword God would reappear in the world.


    A sword coming from the west, a fairy flying beyond the heavens!

 Chapter 44 – Fire

    At dawn, a hint of fish-belly white appeared on the eastern horizon.


    On the stone steps, Li Ziye suddenly opened his eyes and woke up on time.


    As day and night alternated, between heaven and earth, the yin turned to yang, making it the best time to practice the Feixian Decision Method.


    Li Ziye sat down, operated the method, and absorbed the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.


    In an instant, the boundless spiritual energy of heaven and earth surged around the courtyard, continuously pouring into his dry Divine Hidden Technique.


    As time passed, the sun rose in the east, and when the first ray of morning light fell on the earth, the fluctuations of Li Ziye''s true essence gradually subsided.


    The Divine Hidden Technique, a treasure trove within the human body, formed a small world on its own. Inside the Divine Hidden Technique, lightning flashed and thunder roared, and the spiritual energy of heaven and earth gathered to form an endless sea of true essence, with huge waves rolling and a breathtaking sight.


    As Li Ziye''s cultivation became more profound, the scale of the sea of true essence also continued to expand, boundless and endless.


    After opening the second meridian, Li Ziye''s cultivation speed increased by more than twice as much as before, and the expansion speed of the true essence also doubled.


    "Swoosh!"


    Half an hour later, Li Ziye suddenly opened his eyes, and a sharp light flashed, like a sharp divine sword, exuding a compelling edge.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu felt something and showed a hint of surprise on his face.


    Such a sharp sword intent!


    Just in the first realm, there was such a sharp sword intent. The Feixian Decision was truly the number one technique in the world.


    "Brother Li, do you want to have a try?"


    Bai Wangyu thought for a moment and asked.


    Li Ziye, upon hearing this, also showed an eager expression and jumped up, saying, "Alright, as usual, you keep your cultivation at the mid-stage of the first realm."


    "Okay."


    Bai Wangyu nodded and walked to the middle of the courtyard. Then, he grasped the ancient Taiyi Sword with his right hand, and in an instant, a surge of righteousness gushed out.


    On the other side, Li Ziye drew the Pure Jun Sword, grinned, and said, "Please!"


    As he spoke, Li Ziye''s figure moved instantly, taking the initiative.


    His extremely fast body technique, like a Feixian, was difficult to capture. In the blink of an eye, the edge of the Pure Jun Sword had reached Bai Wangyu''s front.


    "Clang!"


    The Taiyi and Pure Jun swords clashed, and the true essence vibrated. The sword edge in Li Ziye''s hand changed its momentum, and his figure moved again, instantly appearing behind Bai Wangyu.


    The edge of the Pure Jun Sword swung over, sharp and unstoppable. However, Bai Wangyu did not dodge or evade, and with a turn, he blocked the sharp sword edge.


    The speed was so fast that people couldn''t react in time. After the two moves clashed, Li Ziye''s sword momentum changed again, and his body technique became faster and faster.


    Under the morning sun, the two swords kept clashing, sparks flying, and it seemed that they were evenly matched.


    In the blink of an eye, ten moves had passed. Bai Wangyu swung his sword, and a sword shook the situation, saying, "No need to continue. Brother Li has only learned less than three moves in total, but he can hold his own against me for ten moves. Brother Li''s progress is truly impressive."


    "Why does it sound strange?"


    Li Ziye sheathed his sword and muttered. Did he think too much? Why did he feel uncomfortable with the praise?


    "Young Master."


    Just then, outside the west wing, Hong Zhu walked over and respectfully said, "It''s almost time."


    Li Ziye nodded at the words and walked towards the outside of the courtyard.


    Outside Li Garden, the carriage was ready, and Li Ziye and Hong Zhu got on the carriage together.


    At the same time, in a small courtyard by the Xiang River in the southeast of the capital city, Yu Qingxuan finished packing her guqin and got on the carriage to leave.


    At the Yin Family Money House, firecrackers were sounding, and people were coming and going, creating a festive atmosphere.


    The Yin Family''s old master was celebrating his sixtieth birthday, and the guests were full, mostly the younger generation of the Yin Family and some relatives and friends.


    In front of the Yin Family, a carriage stopped, and on one of the carriages, a pair of slender hands belonging to Hong Zhu were touching Li Ziye''s face, claiming it was a disguise. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Li Ziye suspected that Hong Zhu was deliberately taking advantage of him.


    "Alright."


    Before long, Hong Zhu withdrew her hand, looked satisfied with her work, and then took out a mirror, saying, "Take a look!"


    On the other side, Li Ziye was startled when he saw his reflection in the mirror.


    Who is this pretty boy?


    In the mirror, the fair-skinned youth was quite handsome, even more so than Li Ziye himself.


    Li Ziye was a little angry. He had thought he was the most handsome man in the world, but it turned out he was wrong.


    It turned out that the most handsome man in the world was himself after putting on makeup!


    "Miss Yu Qingxuan''s carriage has also arrived."


    Hong Zhu ignored the self-absorbed Young Master in front of her, opened the curtain of the carriage, and, upon seeing the carriage approaching not far away, reminded him.


    Li Ziye heard this, put down the mirror, and got ready to get off the carriage.


    "Red Candle, you stay outside to assist."


    Li Ziye said a word and then stepped down from the carriage.


    In front of the Yin Residence, Yu Qingxuan''s carriage also stopped.


    After that, Yu Qingxuan got off the carriage, looked around, and searched for the figure of a certain person."Qing Xuan Fairy, long time no see!"


    Li Ziye stepped forward, with a smile on his face.


    "Young Master, it seems we don''t know each other."


    Yu Qingxuan saw the newcomer, frowned slightly, and responded.


    "Qing Xuan Fairy, it''s me, Er Niu."


    Li Ziye''s smile on his face became even brighter, "I brought you the Guangling Powder, Er Niu."


    Upon hearing this, Yu Qingxuan was first stunned, then showed an excited expression on her face, "Er Niu, it''s really you."


    After speaking, Yu Qingxuan chuckled, unable to hold back, "Ziye, you''ve changed so much."


    "No choice, I''m too famous, afraid of being recognized!"


    Li Ziye looked around and whispered, "When we go in later, don''t let it slip."


    "I understand."


    Yu Qingxuan glanced at the young man in front of her, then handed the ancient qin to him, saying with a smile, "Er Niu, let''s go in together."


    "Alright!"


    Li Ziye took the ancient qin, grinned, and followed Yu Qingxuan into the Yin Family Mansion.


    In the courtyard of the Yin Family, the stage had already been set up, and famous actors were performing, with drums thundering.


    Below, the guests cheered, creating a lively atmosphere.


    The guests who came to celebrate the birthday were all influential figures in the capital city. However, after seeing Yu Qingxuan''s figure, many people took the initiative to come forward and show their respect.


    To these people, Yu Qingxuan responded with a plain attitude, without any intention of ingratiating herself.


    On the side, Li Ziye''s gaze swept across various parts of the Yin Family, feeling a hint of nervousness in his heart.


    Whether he could obtain the "Technique of Heavenly Craftsmanship" depended on today!


    "Everyone, today is my father''s sixtieth birthday, so I specially invited Fairy Qingxuan to play the qin for everyone. Please welcome her."


    At this moment, a middle-aged man on the stage stepped down and looked at the many guests below, smiling.


    "Fairy Qingxuan!"


    "Fairy Qingxuan!"


    Suddenly, everyone below shouted loudly, especially the young people, who were even more excited and flushed.


    On the side, Li Ziye was startled by this sudden momentum, and looked at the woman beside him with an incredulous expression.


    Is this girl very popular in the capital city?


    So many die-hard fans!


    Yu Qingxuan seemed to feel the surprise in Li Ziye''s eyes, smiled, then took the ancient qin and walked towards the front.


    On the stage, Yu Qingxuan sat down and placed the ancient qin down.


    Below, the middle-aged man clapped his hands, and several graceful women walked up to the stage to dance to Fairy Qingxuan''s qin music.


    "Ding!"


    Yu Qingxuan played the qin, and the melodious sound of the qin rang out, like a gurgling spring, pure and clear.


    With the sound of the qin, the women behind her began to dance, their graceful movements complementing the qin music.


    Below, many guests quieted down, listening to the qin music while watching the dance, completely captivated.


    Not far away, Li Ziye had no mood to enjoy the performance. His gaze was fixed on the backyard of the Yin Family, waiting for Yin Kuang''s move.


    At the same time, not too far from the Yin Family, the envoys of the Divine Temple were arranged at the Honglu Temple, waiting for an audience with the Emperor of Great Shang.


    In the Honglu Temple, Yan Xiaoyu, who was practicing, slowly opened his eyes and looked outside, frowning slightly.


    Why is it so noisy!


    Yan Xiaoyu got up and walked outside.


    "Divine Child!" A knight of the Divine Temple outside the room respectfully saluted.


    "Go and ask whose family is making such a noise," Yan Xiaoyu said.


    "Yes!"


    The knight of the Divine Temple took the order and quickly left.


    Not long after, the knight returned and respectfully said, "Reporting to the Divine Child, it''s the Yin Family in the capital city celebrating the old master''s sixtieth birthday, so it''s a bit noisy."


    "The Yin Family?"


    Yan Xiaoyu narrowed his eyes. Is it the Yin Family behind the Yin Family Money House!


    According to the records of the Divine Temple, the Yin Family Money House was likely related to the Third Prince of Great Shang.


    "It''s on fire!"


    Just then, outside the Honglu Temple, an urgent voice rang out, shocking everyone.


    "The Yin Family is on fire!"


    Following that, more voices rang out, rushing to spread the news and bring people to help fight the fire.


    Inside the Honglu Temple, Yan Xiaoyu heard the news and looked in the direction of the Yin Family, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    On fire?


    Everything was fine, why did it suddenly catch fire?


    Thinking of this, Yan Xiaoyu walked out of the Honglu Temple.


    "Divine Child, unnecessary matters should not concern you!"


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    At this moment, the figure of Liu Rongn¨¹ appeared behind him, her voice hoarse.


    "I know my limits."


    Yan Xiaoyu nodded, then walked out of the Honglu Temple.


    In the backyard of the Yin Family, the sudden fire caught everyone in the mansion off guard, and they were in a panic.


    Because the old master of the Yin Family was celebrating his birthday, most of the people in the mansion were in the front yard, and there were hardly any people in the backyard.


    So, after the fire started, there was no time to put it out, and the fire grew bigger and bigger.


    As a result, the entire Yin Family was in chaos.


    "It''s the first month of the new year, why is there a fire..."In the midst of utter chaos, Li Ziye hummed a tune, calmly making his way towards the location Yin Kuang had informed him of.


    Before the Yin family ancestral hall.


    Yin Kuang stood there, anxiously waiting.


    Before long, Li Ziye strode forward, a green jade pendant hanging from his waist, purportedly a token of trust!


    Upon seeing the jade pendant at the waist of the newcomer, Yin Kuang immediately recognized the identity of the visitor and stepped forward to greet him with a bow:


    "Young Master!"


    "Let''s go, we''ll retrieve the item together."


    Li Ziye responded and they both walked on.


    The two entered the Yin family ancestral hall and opened the secret passage entrance. What appeared before them was a passage over thirty feet long, gloomy and dim.


    "Young Master, you must follow closely behind me. Do not make a single misstep, or neither of us will be able to leave alive."


    Yin Kuang looked ahead at the secret passage, his expression grave.

 Chapter 45 – Miracle

    In front of the secret passage, Yin Kuang''s expression became very serious, carefully taking step by step forward.


    Behind, Li Ziye stood still, not following.


    He had a premonition that this trip was not going to be easy.


    Before his thoughts could settle, Yin Kuang had just taken a few steps forward when suddenly, the ground beneath his feet sank, and countless arrows flew out from the walls on both sides.


    "Impossible!"


    Yin Kuang''s expression changed, and he swiftly dodged the arrows one after another.


    Seeing this from behind, Li Ziye''s eyes narrowed slightly as he said, "Go back!"


    Hearing the reminder, Yin Kuang didn''t dare to hesitate any longer and immediately retreated to the entrance of the secret passage.


    "How could this happen!"


    After returning to the entrance, Yin Kuang looked at the arrows on the ground ahead, full of confusion. He hadn''t taken the wrong path, so why did he still trigger the mechanism?


    "Not surprising."


    Li Ziye replied, "You stole the Yin family''s Fiery Iron Essence before. If the Yin family didn''t take precautions, that would be truly surprising. The mechanisms in this secret passage must have all been changed."


    "What should we do, just give up like this?"


    Yin Kuang''s face was heavy. They had laid out the plan for so long, it would be a pity to give up now.


    "Of course, we can''t give up. You go outside and keep watch, I''ll handle this!"


    Li Ziye gazed at the secret passage ahead, his expression calm.


    Originally, the plan was for Yin Kuang to successfully obtain what he wanted by passing through these mechanisms, which would be the best outcome, and Li Ziye wouldn''t have to take the risk. But now, it seemed that it wasn''t going to be that easy.


    Upon hearing this, Yin Kuang''s expression changed slightly. He wanted to say something, but in the end, he nodded and said, "Young Master, be careful."


    After speaking, Yin Kuang turned and left the secret passage to stand guard outside.


    At the entrance, Li Ziye looked at the dark and gloomy secret passage ahead. After a moment, he leaped out like a bolt of lightning.


    At the same time, the entire secret passage seemed to come alive. Countless arrows flew out from the walls on both sides, like a torrential rain, shooting towards the intruder.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The arrows hit the stone slabs, sparks flying everywhere as Li Ziye''s figure darted through, moving unbelievably fast.


    The Flying Immortal Technique, known as the number one technique in the world, had the greatest feature of extremely fast body movement, second to none in the world, apart from its exquisite sword techniques.


    So, facing the mechanisms in the Yin family''s secret passage, Li Ziye used the Flying Immortal Technique to break through with absolute speed.


    In just a few breaths, Li Ziye''s figure reached the end of the secret passage, coming to a stop.


    Behind him, the ground was covered with arrows, the entire floor and walls pockmarked. Obviously, if these arrows were shot at a person, they would probably turn them into a sieve.


    At the end of the secret passage, Li Ziye looked at the stone door ahead, a strange glint in his eyes.


    Could the mechanism of this stone door have changed as well?


    In his thoughts, Li Ziye raised his hand and simultaneously rotated the two stone rings on the stone door.


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    In an instant, a rumbling sound echoed in the silent secret passage, and the stone door slowly opened.


    As Li Ziye stepped inside, at that moment, a dark figure suddenly pounced from within the stone chamber.


    Sensing the sudden danger, Li Ziye reacted, stepping aside to avoid the pouncing figure.


    What came into view was a child who looked about four feet tall, with disheveled hair and a terrifyingly fierce face.


    However, after Li Ziye truly saw the person''s face, he realized that the figure in front of him was not a child, but an adult.


    A dwarf!


    Li Ziye''s heart sank, and it was an agile dwarf.


    "A warrior?"


    Li Ziye''s face showed a serious expression, not daring to be careless. He untied his belt, drew out a soft sword, and infused it with true energy, causing the soft sword to become straight and emit a cold light.


    "Roar!"


    In the stone chamber, the dwarf roared, pouncing once again.


    At the same time, a silver light appeared on the dwarf''s chest, and the Divine Hidden Technique roared.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye narrowed his eyes.


    As expected!


    "Bang!"


    As the dwarf pounced, Li Ziye dodged, and at the same time, the stone pillar behind him was directly broken, with flying debris, terrifying the mind.


    Seeing that the dwarf''s skills were extraordinary, Li Ziye didn''t want to linger too long. He scanned the surrounding chamber, preparing to find the whereabouts of the "Heavenly Art of Artificing."


    Yin Kuang said that the "Heavenly Art of Artificing" was placed in a blue box, but there were too many things here. When would he find it!


    "Roar!"


    Before he could take a few glances, the dwarf once again let out an angry roar and pounced like a hungry beast.


    Li Ziye frowned, dodging the figure once again.


    The chamber was not too large, and the dwarf''s stature was small and agile. Every time he missed, he pounced again, like a hungry wild animal, refusing to give up without catching its prey.


    Li Ziye dodged time and time again, while also taking the opportunity to search for the whereabouts of the "Heavenly Art of Artificing."


    "Clang!"


    After dodging several times in a row, the dwarf''s attacks became more and more fierce. Finally, unable to avoid it, Li Ziye swung his sword, directly blocking the figure''s attack head-on.


    The harsh friction sound rang out, and the dwarf''s hands were as hard as rock, able to withstand the sharp edge of the sword with his flesh and blood.


    "Hmm?"


    Seeing this, Li Ziye kicked the dwarf''s knees, using the momentum to retreat ten meters away.


    "Trouble!"


    Li Ziye glanced at the dwarf''s hands in front of him, his brow furrowing lightly.


    Such hard claws, he didn''t know where the Yin family had found such a monster.


    "Roar!"


    Ten steps away, the dwarf let out a low roar, its eyes like those of a greedy and murderous wild beast."I didn''t want to harm you, but now it seems I have no choice but to beat you down before you''ll let me search in peace!"


    As he spoke, Li Ziye''s expression turned cold, no longer willing to dodge, his figure shot out like a meteor.


    At the same time, the dwarf also charged excitedly, his sharp claws aiming to tear apart the prey before him.


    "Clang!"


    The sound of metal clashing with stone rang out again, Li Ziye''s flexible sword instantly changed direction, and at the same time, he pivoted on his foot, darting behind the dwarf.


    Slash!


    The long sword tore through clothing, blood splattered, and the dwarf let out a piercing scream, immediately turning around and pouncing again.


    Li Ziye bent his body to dodge the claws, then grasped his sword with both hands, stepped forward, steadied himself, and with a sword strike that shattered the heavens, he brought it down thunderously.


    "Roar!"


    As danger approached, the dwarf howled in fear, and with the instinctive reaction of a wild beast, he desperately rolled to the side.


    Boom!


    A loud crash echoed as a three-foot sword qi tore through the air, and a shelf filled with treasures was cut in half, all the treasures falling down, clattering all over the floor.


    "Hmm?"


    At that moment, among the treasures scattered on the ground, a green wooden box also fell down, conspicuously catching Li Ziye''s eye, his face revealing a look of joy. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Finally found it!


    Just as Li Ziye located the whereabouts of the Heavenly Craftsmanship Technique, in the Yin family''s backyard, under the raging fire, the scene became even more chaotic.


    The backyard fire lit up half the sky in red, and the Yin family members, young and old, all came to put out the fire, even the officials were alarmed and sent troops to help.


    Outside the Yin residence, Yan Xiaoyu, dressed in a moon-white robe, walked forward, his gaze fixed on the blazing fire ahead, a strange light flashing in his eyes.


    The fire was indeed fierce.


    However, he always felt that this fire was very strange.


    The timing was too coincidental.


    This fire, neither earlier nor later, chose to break out on the grand birthday of the Yin family''s patriarch, no matter how one looked at it, it seemed like someone had done it on purpose.


    "Make way, if you''re not going to help put out the fire, don''t block the road!"


    At this moment, from behind, an official pushed Yan Xiaoyu aside and hurriedly entered the Yin residence with his men.


    Yan Xiaoyu frowned, looking with disgust at the spot the official had touched.


    It seemed that this robe would have to be discarded when he returned.


    The autumn wind blew, bringing a chill, and the sunlight on the street gradually disappeared.


    Yan Xiaoyu sensed it and looked towards the sky.


    Above, the sun had disappeared without notice, and thick clouds covered the light, showing signs of impending rain.


    However, inside and outside the Yin residence, everyone was busy putting out the fire, and no one noticed the change in the weather.


    In front of the Yin residence, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the dark clouds in the sky, the corners of his mouth slightly curving up.


    God of Light above, thank you for your care.


    "God says, all beings suffer."


    Yan Xiaoyu spoke, his voice not loud, yet it resounded like thunder in the ears of everyone inside and outside the Yin residence.


    In an instant, Yan Xiaoyu''s body shone with a pure white radiance, and two divine orifices roared, and the next moment, a white column of light shot straight into the sky, dazzling and blinding.


    "What is that?"


    Inside and outside the Yin residence, everyone''s attention was drawn to this astonishing scene, their eyes fixed on the white column of light, faces showing shock.


    "God says, let there be sweet rain."


    Outside the Yin residence, Yan Xiaoyu spoke again, and immediately, the white light around him became even more brilliant.


    "Boom!"


    Just then, thunder roared above the sky, followed by drops of rain falling from the heavens, sprinkling upon the world.


    At this moment, everyone inside and outside the Yin residence was stunned.


    A miracle!


    "A miracle!"


    "This is a miracle!"


    "A miracle!"


    Someone shouted, and then everyone excitedly followed suit.


    The rain grew heavier, and the people''s excitement grew stronger.


    Under the heavy rain, the fire at the Yin residence gradually weakened, and it looked as if it would soon be extinguished.


    "Old Master, it''s the Divine Child from the Heavenly Edict Hall!"


    At this time, a Servant Boy ran over breathlessly, excitedly saying, "It''s the Divine Child from the Heavenly Edict Hall who has brought us this rain!"


    The Yin family, including the old patriarch, upon hearing this, immediately rushed outside the residence.


    In front of the Yin residence, under the pouring rain, Yan Xiaoyu raised his hands, bathed in the white divine light, his demeanor transcendent and otherworldly, like a deity descended to earth, saving all beings.


    Without further ado, led by the old patriarch, the Yin family members came to the front of the residence, looking at the young man beneath the white column of light, all showing gratitude as they thanked him:


    "Thank you, Divine Child!"


    "Thank you, Divine Child, for helping to bring rain and extinguish the fire!"


    "Thank you so much!"


    Outside the residence, the Yin family members expressed their gratitude, continuously thanking him, and on both sides of the street, many commoners who witnessed this miracle were equally excited.


    Could it be that there really are gods in this world?


    And is this Divine Child from the Heavenly Edict Hall the incarnation of a god on earth?


    "Old Master Yin, you are too kind."


    In front of the Yin residence, Yan Xiaoyu revealed a kind smile, calmly saying, "This is all thanks to the care of the God of Light."


    Not far away, in a carriage, Hong Zhu, who had witnessed everything from the beginning, showed a look of disdain.


    Nonsense about the God of Light.


    People from the Heavenly Edict Hall really are a bunch of charlatans spouting lies!

 Chapter 46 – The most handsome, always the big brother

    In the secret room of the Yin family, Li Ziye discovered the whereabouts of the Tian Gong technique without any hesitation and immediately rushed forward.


    "Roar!"


    On the side, the dwarf saw the intruder trying to steal the treasure and roared, charging forward as well.


    As Li Ziye''s figure passed the fallen wooden frame, he grabbed the green wooden box on the ground, then swiftly dodged the claws that came at him from behind.


    With a loud bang, the dwarf pounced and directly smashed the fallen wooden frame with his sharp claws.


    A step away, Li Ziye kicked the dwarf in front of him and then retreated.


    The dwarf grunted and stabilized his figure, then immediately pounced again.


    "Coming again? I won''t accompany you!" Li Ziye sneered, using his sword to fend off the dwarf in front of him, then stepped back out of the stone door.


    "Bang!"


    After exiting the secret room, Li Ziye grabbed the two stone rings with both hands and closed the stone door directly.


    "Roar!"


    The dwarf hit the stone door and roared in frustration.


    With the stone door closed, the entire secret passage quieted down again. Li Ziye opened the green wooden box in his hand and, seeing the scroll inside, felt a sense of relief.


    Finally got it!


    "Young Master."


    At that moment, outside the secret passage, Yin Kuang hurried over and said urgently, "Young Master, hurry, someone is coming!"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye put away the scroll in his hand and rushed outside.


    Outside the Yin family ancestral hall, a few servants came over after extinguishing the fire, and the old master Yin also began to suspect that someone had deliberately set the fire, sending people from the mansion to look around for any abnormalities.


    Inside the ancestral hall, Li Ziye saw the servants coming in from the heavy rain outside and said in a low voice, "I''ll go distract them, you take the opportunity to leave and don''t expose your identity."


    After speaking, Li Ziye rushed out of the ancestral hall and headed towards the Yin family''s outer courtyard.


    "There''s someone over there, quick, chase after him!"


    A servant noticed Li Ziye''s tracks and shouted, immediately leading others to chase after him.


    Seeing this, Yin Kuang immediately walked out of the ancestral hall and took the opportunity to leave.


    In the front courtyard of the Yin family, Li Ziye hurried over and left the mansion in the chaos.


    In front of the mansion, the old master Yin and others were still thanking Yan Xiaoyu for his help, not noticing Li Ziye''s tracks.


    In the sky, the rain had gradually lessened at this time. A sudden rain, quick to come and quick to go.


    This made the Yin family and the people on the street even more convinced that this rain was a sign from the Divine Child of the Temple of Heavenly Prophecy.


    A divine miracle!


    Apart from the divine miracle, the Yin family and the people didn''t know how else to describe it.


    After coming out of the Yin mansion, Li Ziye went directly to a nearby carriage without anyone paying attention to him in the chaos, except for one person.


    Yan Xiaoyu!


    Under the admiring gazes of the crowd, Yan Xiaoyu suddenly frowned and looked at the young man walking not far away.


    This sense of incongruity was so familiar.


    Strange!


    Not far away, Li Ziye boarded the carriage and immediately left without any delay.


    "Everyone, I have something to attend to, I''ll leave for a moment."


    In front of the Yin mansion, Yan Xiaoyu said with a smile, then turned and chased after him.


    No, there''s something wrong with that young man.


    With this thought in mind, Yan Xiaoyu quickened his pace and chased after the carriage in front.


    In front of the Yin mansion, the old master Yin and others were puzzled, not understanding what had happened.


    On the streets of the capital city, the carriage rumbled forward, circling around several times before heading towards the Li Garden.


    Inside the carriage, Li Ziye took out the scroll from his arms and couldn''t stop smiling. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Drool is coming out, wipe it off!" Hong Zhu spoke up.


    "Huh? Oh!"


    Li Ziye heard and subconsciously wiped the corner of his mouth, then realized he had been tricked. He looked up at the woman in front of him, who was smiling and scolding him, feeling embarrassed. "It''s just a tattered book, is it necessary?"


    Hong Zhu said unkindly, "We''re about to arrive at Li Garden, let me help you wipe off the stuff on your face."


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye nodded and took the initiative to bring his big face closer.


    As Hong Zhu reached out to remove the medicine from his face, her expression suddenly changed, and she looked towards the back of the carriage.


    Something''s not right!


    "What''s wrong?" Li Ziye noticed her abnormality and asked.


    "There''s someone behind us!" Hong Zhu said in a low voice.


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye''s expression changed. They had been very careful, deliberately circling around the area, yet they were still being followed.


    "Who is it, are they powerful?" Li Ziye asked quietly.


    "They''ve been following us for so long without me noticing, their cultivation is above mine." Hong Zhu said with a serious tone.


    Li Ziye was shocked. Hong Zhu''s martial talent was outstanding, having already opened up a second Divine Hidden Technique and was only a hair''s breadth away from the mid-stage of the second realm. If this person''s cultivation was above hers, it meant that they were at least at the mid-stage, or even the late stage of the second realm.


    As for the third realm, or even the fourth realm, Li Ziye hadn''t considered it. At this level, they wouldn''t be able to detect their movements.


    "What should we do?" Li Ziye asked in a serious tone.


    "Act like we haven''t noticed and continue on our way."


    Hong Zhu responded, the safety of the Young Master was the most important. This person had been following them without making a move, probably just wanting to know their identities. If they startled the snake, it might lead to this person attacking.


    Faced with such a master, she wasn''t confident in protecting the Young Master.


    Behind the carriage, Yan Xiaoyu quietly followed, his moon-white robe untouched by any dust, his pace seemingly unhurried, but he was always closely following the carriage.


    He wanted to see where this carriage was going.


    "Drive!"


    Unexpectedly, at this moment, a dozen iron riders came galloping down the street, their speed extremely fast, not dodging or avoiding, directly charging towards Li Ziye and Hong Zhu''s carriage.


    "Whoa!"


    Seeing this, the carriage driver hurriedly pulled the reins to avoid them.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The dozen iron riders thundered past, with the general at the front wearing a blue battle armor, tall and extraordinary in temperament.


    As the iron riders passed, the general lowered his head and glanced at Yan Xiaoyu behind the carriage, a strange light flashing in his eyes.


    This person''s attire was not that of a Great Shang merchant. Could it be one of those charlatans from the Temple of Heavenly Prophecy?


    After a brief glance, the general did not stop and led the elite iron riders to disappear into the distance.


    "Whoa!"On the street, whether it was the oppressive aura of the iron cavalry that frightened it or not, the large black horse pulling the carriage suddenly went mad, no matter how the servant boy tried to soothe it, the horse could not be calmed.


    The horse, spooked, began to leap and bound, causing the carriage to jolt violently.


    "Young Master, get down quickly, the horse is startled!"


    The servant boy driving the carriage, seeing that he could no longer control the horse, couldn''t help but shout urgently.


    Before his words had even finished, the large black horse, dragging the carriage, crashed into several stone steps in succession, and then, the carriage completely lost its balance and flipped over.


    In that critical moment, atop the carriage, Li Ziye grabbed the servant boy and leaped down, rolling several times on the ground.


    By comparison, Hong Zhu appeared much more graceful, shattering the carriage with a palm and descending from the air.


    On the quiet street, Li Ziye stood up, and behind him, Yan Xiaoyu stood silently.


    The scene suddenly became somewhat eerie.


    Li Ziye really wanted to continue pretending he hadn''t noticed the person following him, but that was no longer possible.


    Yan Xiaoyu!


    Why is it this scoundrel!


    This is an opponent that even Little Red Riding Hood wouldn''t dare claim she could beat, with cultivation already at the peak of the second realm, not far from opening the third Divine Hidden Technique.


    I can''t beat him!


    What to do, should I run?


    But what if I can''t outrun him?


    Maybe, if I join forces with Sister Hong Zhu, we might be able to win.


    No, perhaps Yan Xiaoyu bears no malice towards them and won''t make a move.


    In a brief instant, Li Ziye''s mind once again became a storm, searching for a way to escape.


    "Young Master, are you hurt?"


    At this moment, Hong Zhu came over, asking while signaling with her eyes.


    Let''s go!


    "No, let''s go. We''re not far from the Prince''s mansion, we''ll walk back."


    Li Ziye caught the hint, raised his voice in response, and then pretended as if nothing had happened, continuing to walk forward.


    The two of them walked briskly, not daring to stop for a moment.


    The Divine Child of the Heavenly Decree Hall was considered the strongest among the younger generation, not someone ordinary people could handle.


    They weren''t far from Li Garden, hoping they could still make it in time.


    Li Ziye screamed in his heart for help!


    Old Zhang, save me!


    Little Red Riding Hood, where are you? Your brother needs your help!


    Amitabha, Amen, Hallelujah, bless us!


    "Are the two of you in such a hurry to leave?"


    Unfortunately, neither Buddha nor God heard Li Ziye''s cries, and from behind, Yan Xiaoyu''s voice rang out, his figure flashing, blocking their path.


    "And you are?"


    Li Ziye suppressed the turmoil in his heart and smiled with a forced grin.


    Beside him, Hong Zhu''s expression turned serious, her true energy circulating, ready to take action.


    "Heavenly Decree Hall, Yan Xiaoyu."


    Yan Xiaoyu responded indifferently, his gaze resting on the two before him, "Well, I''ve announced my identity, shouldn''t you two also reveal yours?"


    "So it''s the Divine Child."


    Li Ziye laughed, "My apologies, we are from the Xuanwu Prince''s mansion, tasked with delivering a congratulatory gift to Old Master Yin. We didn''t expect to startle the horse here, making the Divine Child witness such a scene."


    "Oh?"


    Yan Xiaoyu heard this, a cold smile appearing at the corner of his mouth, "Since you are from the Xuanwu Prince''s mansion, then I shall escort you back, and take the opportunity to visit the Xuanwu Prince."


    "No need."


    Beside Li Ziye, Hong Zhu spoke up, her voice calm, "The Prince is busy with affairs and not in the mansion today. Divine Child, perhaps you can visit another day."


    "Heh."


    Yan Xiaoyu let out a cold laugh, "Evasive and obstructive, you must be guilty of something. I will take you to see the Xuanwu Prince now to see if he recognizes you!"


    As his words fell, Yan Xiaoyu''s figure swept forward, surrounded by a pure and flawless divine light, his aura astonishing.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye and Hong Zhu''s expressions changed, and they immediately retreated.


    Yan Xiaoyu''s lips curved slightly, and with a step, he pressed forward once more.


    At the moment of crisis, at the end of the street, a surge of sword intent suddenly soared into the sky, righteous and overwhelming.


    "Whoosh!"


    The next moment, an ancient sword broke through the air, thunderously blocking Yan Xiaoyu''s palm.


    "The Taiyi Sword!"


    Yan Xiaoyu, seeing the sword before him, his expression darkened, and he immediately turned to look towards the end of the street.


    The Confucian School, Bai Wangyu!


    There, amidst the autumn wind sweeping fallen leaves, at the end of the street, a young figure in a white Confucian robe stepped forward, each step steady, his demeanor calm and composed, without a ripple.


    Li Ziye, seeing the newcomer, nearly cried out in relief!


    It''s Little Red Riding Hood.


    You''ve been forced to show yourself again!

 Chapter 47 – The Promise of the Confucian Scholar

    In the capital city, on the street, Li Ziye was in a critical moment, and Bai Wangyu appeared again.


    As if it were arranged by the heavens, or perhaps it was fate, every time Li Ziye was in danger, Hong Zhu would appear in time.


    Even his own father was not so attentive.


    "Bai Wangyu!"


    Yan Xiaoyu saw the newcomer and his face darkened. How could he appear here?


    "Divine Child, this is the capital city of Great Shang, not the Heavenly Oracle Hall. Please abide by the rules of our Great Shang Dynasty and do not fight in the street."


    As he spoke, Bai Wangyu stepped forward, drew the Taiyi Sword from the ground, and said lightly, "If the Divine Child insists on a fight, I am willing to accompany you!"


    In front, Li Ziye''s face was full of gratitude.


    Sure enough, Little Red Riding Hood was the most domineering!


    Thank you, Amitabha, Hallelujah, every time he was in the most danger, Little Red Riding Hood would be sent to his side.


    "Very well."


    Yan Xiaoyu looked at the Confucian School''s senior disciple in front of him, and a hint of battle intent appeared on his face as he said, "The last time we fought was two years ago. I also want to see how much you have improved in these two years!"


    With these words, a divine light shone around Yan Xiaoyu, and the pure and flawless light rose, like a miracle, illuminating the entire street.


    "Li...Brothers, please step back."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the two people behind him, and was about to call out the familiar two words, but then forcibly swallowed them and changed his address.


    Li Ziye and Hong Zhu heard this and looked at each other, then silently retreated, leaving the space to the two of them.


    Fight!


    Start fighting!


    Beat this stinky fish to a pulp!


    "Divine Child, please make your move!"


    On the street, Bai Wangyu raised the sword in his hand and said calmly.


    "Please!"


    Yan Xiaoyu responded with a solemn expression. Facing the senior disciple of the Confucian School''s younger generation, he dared not be careless. His cultivation at the peak of the Second Realm was fully unleashed, and the two divine techniques roared, emitting an extremely powerful pressure.


    The next moment, Yan Xiaoyu moved.


    The white divine light was like a surging wave, and Yan Xiaoyu''s palm seemed to have the might of a god.


    In the middle of the street, Bai Wangyu looked at the surging palm force coming towards him, his expression calm without a hint of panic.


    The Taiyi Sword was swung, and the righteous qi surged, blocking the divine force of the Divine Child''s palm.


    In the blink of an eye, the two of them locked eyes, and the force of their palms and sword qi collided, causing shockwaves that swept past them.


    Around them, dust and waves surged, and wherever the qi force reached, it left a mess.


    After one move, the two were evenly matched. The senior disciple of the Confucian School and the Divine Child of the Heavenly Oracle Hall both displayed the unparalleled arrogance of their generation.


    After one move, the figures of the two of them moved at the same time.


    In the blink of an eye, on the street, the palm wind and sword light crisscrossed, their speed becoming faster and their power becoming more astonishing.


    The aftermath of the battle between the two spread continuously, and the surroundings of the street became even more chaotic.


    Outside the battle, Li Ziye watched this battle of the younger generation''s unparalleled arrogance, his face full of shock!


    It turned out that Little Red Riding Hood had not used his full strength when he sparred with him before.


    Too strong!


    "Young Master, you should watch carefully and observe every move and every technique of theirs, even their breathing. Such opportunities are not common and will greatly benefit your future martial arts path."


    Beside him, Hong Zhu watched the battle in front of her and reminded him.


    "Mm."


    Li Ziye nodded gently and looked at the two people in the battle with a burning gaze, unwilling to miss any details.


    In the midst of the battle, Yan Xiaoyu felt that something was off. He glanced at the two people observing the battle outside the battlefield, then looked back at the senior disciple of the Confucian School in front of him.


    Strange!


    Bai Wangyu seemed to be deliberately dragging out the battle.


    Why?


    In his thoughts, Yan Xiaoyu increased his true qi by another thirty percent, and the divine light surged out like a surging wave as he struck out.


    Five steps away, Bai Wangyu stepped out in an instant, avoiding the palm force, and in the moment he arrived in front of Yan Xiaoyu, he struck with his sword.


    "Boom!"


    Yan Xiaoyu turned his palm over and blocked the sword edge with a loud noise.


    "I''ve got you!"


    In the instant of blocking the sword, a cold light flashed in Yan Xiaoyu''s eyes. Then, he gripped the divine sword with his flesh and blood, and at the same time, condensed his qi with his left hand, transforming it into a sacred divine light that crushed everything.


    The palm, which was within arm''s reach, was unavoidable.


    Only to see Bai Wangyu not dodge or avoid, his righteous qi surged around him, and he also struck out with a palm, meeting the attack head-on.


    With a violent tremor, the two powerful forces collided directly, and the battle was instantly deadlocked, with both of them retreating several steps, and it was difficult to determine the outcome.


    "So, you''re not just good with a sword!"


    Yan Xiaoyu looked at his opponent in front of him, his expression darkening as he spoke.


    "I have never said that I only know how to use a sword."


    Bai Wangyu said lightly, "Palm techniques are also the foundation of the Confucian School''s martial arts. As the senior disciple of the Imperial Academy, how could I not practice diligently and lead by example."


    Outside the battle, Li Ziye listened to Little Red Riding Hood''s words and almost shed tears.


    Look at how domineering he is, and then look at himself.


    Forget it, it''s better not to say anything.


    "The Confucian School''s Bai Wangyu is truly worthy of his reputation. Today, I have learned a lot. We will meet again in the future!"The opponent was difficult for a while, and Yan Xiaoyu was unwilling to continue the fight. He said coldly, then turned and left.


    "No need to see me off."


    Bai Wangyu replied, then turned his gaze to the two people outside the battle, showing a gentle smile on his face.


    Li Ziye quickly stepped forward, almost excitedly wanting to pick up the little red hat.


    The little red hat is so handsome, and he drove away another one!


    "Brother Li, how much did you understand?" Bai Wangyu spoke with a smile.


    "Three moves."


    Li Ziye held out three fingers, grinning, "But, I also remembered the ones I didn''t understand."


    "That''s good then."


    Bai Wangyu nodded, relieved, "Yan Xiaoyu is very powerful, I can''t keep fighting him."


    "So, you were deliberately delaying, so that the young master could watch."


    Beside them, Hong Zhu stepped forward and said calmly, "Thanks to Bai Gongzi''s timely arrival, otherwise, both the young master and I would have been in big trouble today. However, how did you know that we were in danger?"


    "I didn''t know."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head gently and smiled, "I just felt that with Brother Li''s personality, he might cause trouble when he goes out, so I came to take a look."


    "You!"


    Li Ziye heard this and his previously excited face suddenly turned as if he had been doused with cold water. He gritted his teeth in anger, "Are you saying that I''m a troublemaker?"


    Hong Zhu couldn''t help but cover her mouth and chuckle when she heard this. Bai Wangyu really understands the young master.


    "Brother Li, don''t misunderstand, I didn''t mean that."


    Bai Wangyu denied decisively, then changed the subject, "How did you provoke this Yan Xiaoyu?"


    "I''m not sure."


    Talking about the main issue, Li Ziye''s expression became serious, shaking his head, "After I left the Yin Residence in the chaos, I immediately met up with Hong Zhu and we took a carriage back. There were no mistakes in the middle, and I don''t understand why this Yan Xiaoyu would target us."


    "Weird."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man in front of him, puzzled, "If it weren''t for Miss Hong Zhu being by Brother Li''s side, even I wouldn''t have recognized him. The Divine Child has never seen Miss Hong Zhu, so he shouldn''t be able to guess Brother Li''s identity."


    "Weird things happen every year, but there are more this year."


    Li Ziye muttered, raised his arm and sniffed, "Is there something special about me? Can that Yan Xiaoyu, who is a dog, smell it as soon as he gets close?"


    "..."


    Hong Zhu was speechless and said, "Let''s talk about it when we get back to the residence." sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye nodded and walked towards the Li Garden with the two of them.


    On the way back, Bai Wangyu pondered the words Li Ziye had just said, feeling puzzled and unable to resolve it.


    This matter is indeed somewhat suspicious. It seems that there is a chance to consult the Law Confucian or the Confucian Scholar.


    At the Grand Honglu Temple, when Yan Xiaoyu returned, Liu Rongn¨¹ was waiting in the courtyard.


    Seeing the former return, Liu Rongn¨¹ spoke with a hoarse voice, "The Divine Child has been out for so long, did he encounter any trouble?"


    "I met Bai Wangyu and had a few moves with him," Yan Xiaoyu replied.


    "Oh?"


    Liu Rongn¨¹''s old eyes flashed with a hint of light when she heard this, "What was the result?"


    "The same as two years ago, no clear winner," Yan Xiaoyu said calmly, "However, I found out that Bai Wangyu is not only skilled in swordsmanship, but also has remarkable palm skills."


    "Palm skills?"


    Liu Rongn¨¹ frowned and said, "The Confucian School really are a bunch of secretive people who can''t stand the light. It''s true that the head of the Confucian School has been hiding in the Imperial Academy for a hundred years and his disciples are all the same, hiding their martial arts skills."


    "Be careful with your words, Lady Liu."


    Yan Xiaoyu''s expression changed slightly and said, "In this capital city, the Confucian Scholar has eyes and ears everywhere, and it''s very likely that he can hear what we''re saying."


    "So what if he hears? I''m speaking the truth."


    Liu Rongn¨¹''s face darkened and said, "Since I dare to say it, am I afraid of him hearing it?"


    "That shameless old man."


    In a small courtyard to the east of the Imperial Academy, Kong Qiu was tidying up the garden, shaking his head in silence, "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, if you have the chance, help me teach that old man a lesson."


    "Is it the Confucian Scholar you''re talking about?"


    Beside him, Qin E''nuo stood up and moved the weeds in the garden to the side, asking, "Liu Rongn¨¹?"


    The Confucian Scholar knows everything, but she doesn''t, so naturally she doesn''t know who the old man the Confucian Scholar is referring to.


    "Who else besides him?"


    Kong Qiu helplessly said, "He''s disrespectful to his elders. If it weren''t for the fact that he''s a junior, and he''s quite old now, I really want to slap him to death."


    Qin E''nuo chuckled and said, "You can do it, but I helped the Confucian Scholar, so he should have some kind of reward."


    "Oh?"


    Kong Qiu smiled and asked, "What does Plum Blossom Sword Immortal want in return? Your cultivation has reached the peak of the mortal world, and if you want to break through, you can only rely on your own insights. I can''t help you."


    "I don''t really need anything in return, but my disciple is still weak, and this capital city of Great Shang is full of danger. I think the Confucian Scholar could give him some guidance, or help him open up two or three meridians." Qin E''nuo took the opportunity to make a request."Haha."


    Upon hearing the conditions proposed by the woman before him, Kong Qiu couldn''t help but burst into laughter and said, "The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal truly refuses to be at a disadvantage, very well! However, this old man also has a condition. In a few days, the envoys from the Heavenly Edict Hall will enter the palace for an audience. At that time, Great Shang will face quite a few troubles. If your disciple can help Great Shang resolve these issues, I will consider your conditions."

 Chapter 48 – Divine Temples Issue

    Capital City, five days had passed since the fire at the Yin family.


    During these five days, Li Ziye had not left the Li Manor.


    In the western wing, amidst the crisscrossing red thread formation, a pig lay inside, exhausted and unable to stand due to the depletion of genuine Qi.


    Bai Wangyu silently walked in and dragged the pig out.


    A long trail of blood was left on the ground.


    "Crack!"


    On the stone steps, Li Ziye took out several potent medicines and gnawed on them.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu wiped his sword and asked in a nonchalant tone, "Brother Li, it''s been a few days. Have you made any progress?"


    "A little bit," Li Ziye gritted his teeth and replied.


    "Oh, progress, I thought there was no change," Bai Wangyu said sarcastically.


    "..."


    Li Ziye was so angry that he wanted to use the radish in his hand to smash the guy in front of him.


    Is this something a person should say?


    Just because he had high talent, did that mean he could openly mock others?


    In five days, he had progressed from thirteen steps to seventeen steps, which was quite significant.


    "Old Bai, you will soon have to look at me with new eyes!" Li Ziye took a bite of the potent medicine and said unclearly, "Today, His Majesty has issued an edict to summon the Divine Temple''s envoy. As long as that King Medicine arrives on the Great Shang''s side, I will be able to obtain it. By then, I will open up another meridian, and my cultivation speed will definitely increase."


    "Heh, opening three meridians, quite ambitious!" Bai Wangyu smirked.


    "Get lost!"


    Li Ziye spat out the word elegantly.


    This guy was really annoying!


    Little Red Riding Hood was no longer the innocent little angel she was when she first arrived at the Li Manor.


    He wondered how things were going in the palace.


    Had the King Medicine brought by the Divine Temple been presented to the Great Shang Dynasty?


    Li Ziye gnawed on the potent medicine, his mind already flying to the palace, wishing he had wings to fly there right now.


    Great Shang Imperial Palace.


    Magnificent and towering palaces stood one after another, with a particularly majestic one in the middle. In front of it, a stone staircase made of a thousand layers of white marble led straight to the Hall of Heavenly Worship, exuding an extraordinary aura.


    The Great Shang, a millennium-old dynasty, was still thriving despite the changes in the world. Over the past thousand years, no force in the Nine Provinces could compare to the Great Shang, except for the Divine Oracle Temple in the Western Regions.


    Unlike the Great Shang, which governed by law, the Divine Oracle Temple was a kingdom of faith, with millions of followers of the God of Light. In terms of influence, it was even more terrifying than the Great Shang.


    Over the past thousand years, the Great Shang and the Divine Oracle Temple had also had large-scale wars, with victories and defeats on both sides. However, in the past hundred years, the two sides had gradually moved towards peace, with fewer and fewer large-scale conflicts.


    However, both the Great Shang and the Divine Oracle Temple knew that this was just the calm before the storm.


    With different beliefs and conflicting fundamental interests, war was only a matter of time.


    If the Great Shang Dynasty wanted to expand its territory, the Divine Oracle Temple was its biggest obstacle. Similarly, if the Divine Oracle Temple wanted to spread its faith of light throughout the Nine Provinces, the Great Shang was the biggest roadblock that needed to be eliminated.


    Therefore, today, the Divine Temple''s Divine Child had come to the Great Shang, not so much for a visit as to test the waters.


    In the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the courtiers of the Great Shang were divided into two sides. The Emperor of Shang sat quietly on the dragon throne, wearing a bright yellow dragon robe, looking to be around forty years old, with a face that exuded an imposing aura even without speaking a word.


    In the middle of the hall, the envoys of the Divine Oracle Temple bowed respectfully.


    The Divine Oracle Temple and the Great Shang did not have a subordinate relationship, so Yan Xiaoyu and Liu Rongn¨¹, among others, only bowed to the Emperor and did not kneel.


    "Great Shang Emperor, on this trip, my Divine Temple has brought three treasures."


    In the middle of the hall, Yan Xiaoyu, dressed in a moon-white robe, smiled at the Emperor on the dragon throne and said, "The Water-Fire Pearl, produced in the extreme west where yin and yang converge, can resist water and fire;"


    "The Bright Armor, forged by the current Temple Master of my Divine Temple, can resist blades and spears when worn;"


    "The Snow Lotus Heart, born from the thousand-year-old King Medicine of the Divine Peak in the Western Regions, can revive the dead and turn flesh into bone."


    As he spoke, three Divine Temple knights behind Yan Xiaoyu opened three wooden boxes, in which three treasures lay quietly, attracting the attention of everyone in the hall.


    The courtiers standing in the Hall of Heavenly Worship were all high-ranking officials of the Great Shang, with noble status and much higher vision than ordinary people. However, upon seeing the three treasures presented by the Divine Temple, a hint of greed could not help but appear in their eyes.


    On the contrary, the Emperor on the dragon throne remained calm and composed, his gaze quietly watching the various reactions below, without any hint of emotion.


    He wanted to see what the Divine Oracle Temple was up to!


    Presenting treasures? It was just a formality.


    In the middle of the hall, after seeing the greed in the eyes of the courtiers, Yan Xiaoyu''s lips curved slightly.


    These courtiers of the Great Shang were indeed a bunch of greedy and opportunistic people.


    "Great Shang Emperor, my Divine Temple wishes to present these three treasures to the Great Shang Dynasty, but..."


    After introducing the treasures, Yan Xiaoyu bowed and his tone suddenly changed, smiling as he said, "As a return gift, my Divine Temple also wants to ask the Emperor for a treasure."


    "What treasure?" the Emperor of Shang asked indifferently from the dragon throne.


    "The Ninth Princess of the Great Shang."Yan Xiaoyu''s face revealed a warm smile like the sun as he said, "I, as the Divine Child of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, request to marry the Ninth Princess on behalf of the Great Shang Majesty. These three treasures will serve as the betrothal gifts from our Divine Temple."


    As soon as he finished speaking, the entire court was shocked. Everyone in the grand hall looked towards Yan Xiaoyu with expressions of astonishment.


    The Divine Child of the Hall of Heavenly Worship was asking to marry the Ninth Princess?


    "The old man''s intentions are not in the wine."


    In front of the court, several martial kings who had not spoken exchanged glances, their eyes flashing with understanding as they quickly realized the true purpose of the Hall of Heavenly Worship.


    Fengyang City!


    The Ninth Princess was deeply favored by His Majesty. A year ago, she was granted Fengyang City as her fief. Although the Ninth Princess had never been to Fengyang, in name, Fengyang City was indeed her fief.


    Moreover, Fengyang City was located in the western border of Great Shang, close to the frontier, making it a strategically important location.


    In theory, when a princess married, her fief would also be given as part of the dowry, along with a husband.


    It could be said that from the moment His Majesty granted the fief to the Ninth Princess, there was never any intention for her to marry a foreigner.


    This Yan Xiaoyu''s request to marry the Ninth Princess was outrageous!


    Sure enough, upon hearing the request from the Divine Child of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the expression on the Great Shang Emperor''s face immediately furrowed.


    "Great Shang Majesty."


    Below, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the reaction of the Great Shang court, his smile not diminishing in the slightest as he continued, "I know that the Ninth Princess is the apple of His Majesty''s eye, so I will not force the marriage. How about this, my Divine Temple will present three questions. If the Great Shang can answer them within three days, the three treasures behind me will be unconditionally offered. If no one in the Great Shang can answer, then His Majesty will agree to my temple''s request for marriage. Of course, these three treasures will still be presented as gifts to the Great Shang court. How about it, Your Majesty, dare you to gamble with me on this?"


    "Outrageous!"


    As soon as Yan Xiaoyu''s words fell, the courtiers in the hall had a sudden change in their expressions. An old courtier stood up and rebuked, "How dare a junior like you speak to His Majesty of Great Shang in such a manner? Hasn''t your Temple Master taught you any manners?"


    Upon hearing this, Yan Xiaoyu''s eyes flashed with coldness, but he quickly suppressed it. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "L¨¹ Qing, step back."


    On the dragon throne, the Great Shang Emperor spoke calmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty."


    Below, L¨¹ Siqing respectfully bowed and then retreated once again.


    In the grand hall, the other courtiers also had unpleasant expressions. The Divine Child of the Hall of Heavenly Worship was too audacious, daring to be so overbearing in the imperial palace of Great Shang.


    Before the courtiers, several martial kings also had slightly solemn expressions, realizing that this matter was not easy to handle.


    If His Majesty refused, undoubtedly, the people from the temple would spread the news, saying that the Great Shang court was cowardly and unwilling to accept the challenge. By then, the court''s reputation would be greatly damaged.


    However, if His Majesty agreed, the consequences of losing the gamble were equally unimaginable.


    Although it was common for the royal family to marry off their daughters, the Ninth Princess was different.


    "Great Shang Majesty, what do you think?"


    In the middle of the grand hall, Yan Xiaoyu watched as the courtiers and His Majesty remained silent, adding fuel to the fire with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "The Great Shang court has always prided itself on being wise and virtuous, and the Imperial Academy of Great Shang is known for its abundance of talent. The Confucian scholars of the Imperial Academy are even hailed as the wisest in the world. Why is it that now, a small gamble has put everyone in such a difficult position?"


    "The eloquent junior!"


    On both sides, the courtiers of Great Shang heard Yan Xiaoyu''s aggressive words and were almost fuming with anger.


    On the dragon throne, the Great Shang Emperor looked down at the people from the temple with a dark expression. After a moment, he spoke, "State your questions!"


    As soon as he spoke, all the courtiers were shocked. His Majesty had agreed to the gamble?


    In the middle of the grand hall, Yan Xiaoyu smiled. He was afraid that the courtiers of Great Shang would be timid and not dare to agree.


    "Your Majesty is indeed straightforward. Listen well, everyone from Great Shang."


    Yan Xiaoyu''s gaze swept over the courtiers and His Majesty, smiling as he said:


    "The first question: How can a pearl with a hole be threaded without using hands?"


    "The second question: Fifty mother horses that look alike, and fifty newborn foals. How do you distinguish each pair of mother and foal?"


    "The third question: How to make fire with water!"


    The calm and ordinary voice echoed in the Hall of Heavenly Worship of Great Shang. No one knew when, but all the courtiers of Great Shang had quieted down, their faces showing a solemn expression, unable to speak.


    On the dragon throne, the expression of the Great Shang Emperor also changed, his heart sinking.


    Trouble!


    Li Yuan, midday, the sun was shining brightly.


    "Young Master!"


    Outside the west wing, a servant boy hurried over and said, "There''s news from the palace."


    Li Ziye stood up at the news and asked with concern, "What is it?"


    Would there be any problems with his Divine Healer?


    "The temple has presented three difficult questions to the court."


    The servant boy gasped for breath and detailed the news he had received from the palace.


    "It''s a good thing my Divine Healer is fine."


    Li Ziye didn''t care at all about the questions. Upon hearing that the temple would present the Divine Healer to the Great Shang court, he breathed a sigh of relief and sat back down.


    On the side, Bai Wangyu had discerned the key to the problem and his expression became serious as he asked with concern, "Has anyone been able to answer these three questions?"


    "No."


    The servant boy shook his head and said, "No one was able to answer any of them."


    "These fools."On the steps, Li Ziye took out a stalk of Potent Medicine, crunched a bite, and while chewing, he mumbled unclearly, "These are all giveaway questions. If you can''t even answer these, poor Ninth Princess, it seems you''re destined to be married off to that godforsaken place in the Western Regions."

 Chapter 49 – You wont survive past two episodes at first glance

    Li Yuan, West Wing, Bai Wangyu heard Li Ziye''s vague words, his gaze immediately shifted over and asked, "Brother Li, do you know the solution to the problem?"


    "I don''t know."


    Li Ziye shook his head hard and said, "I don''t know anything."


    Just those few questions, anyone who has received nine years of compulsory education would know.


    "That''s not right."


    Bai Wangyu noticed the contradiction in the young man''s words and asked, "Brother Li, you must know the solution, don''t you?"


    "Old Bai, don''t worry about it. It''s none of your business. There are so many capable ministers in the court, they should be able to figure it out."


    Li Ziye said as he gnawed on the "carrot" in his hand, and surprisingly, after gnawing on this potent medicine for a while, his sense of taste changed, and he actually found the taste quite good...


    "Brother Li, this is not a trivial matter."


    Bai Wangyu explained seriously, "If Great Shang can''t answer the three questions from the Divine Temple, it''s not just a matter of losing face. The Ninth Princess is the lord of Fengyang. If she marries, Fengyang City will also be part of the dowry."


    "Oh."


    Li Ziye took a bite of the "carrot" and responded nonchalantly.


    Bai Wangyu looked at the former''s indifferent appearance and wished he could just beat him up.


    This kid, when it''s none of his business, he really doesn''t want to do anything.


    I have to figure out a way to get this guy to help.


    Bai Wangyu''s mind was spinning, but for a while, he couldn''t think of a good solution.


    Imperial Academy.


    The three questions from the Divine Temple were quickly spread, and all the students and instructors at the Imperial Academy began to rack their brains.


    "Using water to produce fire, isn''t this nonsense!"


    An old instructor thought for a long time, then angrily flipped the table and said.


    "Stringing a bead with a southern pearl, I tried it, it''s completely impossible, I''m leaving!"


    Another old instructor controlled the silk thread with internal force and tried several times, but couldn''t thread the silk into the southern pearl.


    Then, he left with a flick of his beard and a sweep of his sleeves.


    The irritable old instructor had already started cursing, spewing foul language, and was on the verge of insulting the ancestors of the Divine Temple.


    When several old instructors lost their temper, the four headmasters of the Confucian School were also troubled by the matter of the Divine Temple.


    The court had sent people early on to ask for help in solving the questions, but these questions were unheard of, and they couldn''t find the answers for a while.


    In desperation, the four headmasters had no choice but to seek guidance from the Confucian Scholar, hoping to get some advice.


    "Bai Wangyu knows the answer, go find him."


    In response to the request from the four headmasters, Kong Qiu said only one sentence and didn''t say anything more.


    "Wangyu?"


    The headmaster of the Confucian School was surprised to hear the guidance from the Confucian Scholar.


    Even they couldn''t solve the questions, how could Wangyu solve them?


    But since the Confucian Scholar had given guidance, the four headmasters didn''t dare to ask more, and could only send someone to Li Yuan to summon Bai Wangyu back.


    Li Yuan, a disciple of the Imperial Academy, came to seek an audience, and Bai Wangyu immediately returned to the Imperial Academy upon hearing that it was a summons from the headmaster of the Confucian School.


    "What, you don''t know?"


    In the Hall of Enforcement, the headmaster of the Confucian School was surprised to hear the disciple''s answer, "But the Confucian Scholar said you had guessed the answer."


    "The Confucian Scholar said that?"


    Bai Wangyu was taken aback, and after a moment, as if he understood something, hesitated for a moment and said, "Headmaster, although I don''t know the answer, Li Ziye might know."


    "Li Ziye? That kid, can he solve the three questions from the Divine Temple?"


    The headmaster of the Confucian School was stunned and said in disbelief.


    "Headmaster, although Li Ziye''s cultivation is still weak, his mind is very clever. I think he should really know the answer." Bai Wangyu said seriously.


    "In that case, what are we waiting for? Bring him over. The Divine Temple has given us three days, and one day has already passed." The headmaster of the Confucian School said anxiously.


    "We can''t bring him over."


    Bai Wangyu smiled bitterly and said, "I''ve already advised him, but Li Ziye just won''t listen. I think this matter has nothing to do with the Li Family, and Li Ziye doesn''t want to get involved in this trouble."


    "He won''t listen?"


    The headmaster of the Confucian School''s face turned angry and said, "This kid really doesn''t understand the big picture. This matter is a national affair. The rise and fall of the country is the responsibility of every man. Go and bring him here. If he refuses to come, even if we have to tie him up, we must bring him here!"


    "This..."


    Bai Wangyu looked embarrassed at the words, and he still knew Li Ziye''s temper to some extent. If Li Ziye didn''t want to do something, he was afraid that no one could persuade him.


    "Wangyu."


    Just as Bai Wangyu was in a dilemma, a voice rang out in the world, saying, "Since the third son of the Li Family is unwilling to come, there''s no need to force him. When you go back, just tell him that if he wants to forge a sword with the fiery iron essence, the water-fire bead brought by the Divine Temple is indispensable. Coincidentally, the Confucian School also wants that water-fire bead. Let him consider it for himself."


    In the Hall of Enforcement, the headmaster of the Confucian School and Bai Wangyu both showed strange expressions upon hearing the words of the Confucian Scholar.


    The Confucian Scholar''s words were a blatant threat.


    "Go."


    After coming to his senses, the headmaster of the Confucian School said, "Just take the words of the Confucian Scholar to the third son of the Li Family. Whether he helps or not, it''s up to him to decide."


    "Yes!"


    Bai Wangyu bowed respectfully, then turned and left.


    Li Yuan.


    "Pfft!"


    After finally taking a break and just about to take a sip of tea, Li Ziye heard the words brought back by Little Red Riding Hood and sprayed the tea out of his mouth.


    "You need the water-fire bead to forge a sword with the fiery iron essence?"


    Li Ziye heard it and immediately took out "The Art of Heavenly Craftsmanship" from his arms and hurriedly searched for it.


    What is this water-fire bead? He hadn''t paid any attention to it before.After searching for a long time, Li Ziye finally found a passage about the Water-Fire Bead in the corner of a tattered book.


    The Water-Fire Bead, born from the land where the extreme west''s Yin and Yang converge, is blue and red in color, capable of refining Yin and Yang, and is a divine object for forging.


    "Is that it?"


    After reading this passage, Li Ziye hurriedly flipped through the pages, but could not find any more information about the Water-Fire Bead.


    Damn it!


    "Brother Li, the Confucian Scholar never lies. If he says the Water-Fire Bead is useful to you, then it must be," Bai Wangyu said with a look of amusement, as if to say it was Li Ziye''s choice and he wouldn''t interfere.


    Li Ziye gritted his teeth and stood up, ready to head outside to the west wing.


    "What are you going to do, Brother Li?" Bai Wangyu asked in surprise.


    "I''m going to find Zhangsun Nanzhao and make her get me that Water-Fire Bead," Li Ziye said through clenched teeth.


    "Heh."


    Bai Wangyu smiled faintly and said, "Brother Li, do you really think that something the Confucian School wants can be taken by others? Of course, you can try. After all, the Zhangsun Family still has an Empress in the palace. Maybe she could help you get that Water-Fire Bead."


    Hearing this, Li Ziye paused mid-step, glared at the little red cap in front of him, and said through gritted teeth, "You''re threatening me."


    "Oh."


    Bai Wangyu responded indifferently.


    So satisfying, so refreshing!


    Who says a gentleman must wait ten years to take revenge? Why not settle the score from this morning right now? Isn''t that satisfying?


    Li Ziye wanted to kick the little red cap, who looked as if his tail was about to wag in triumph.


    Revenge, pure and simple!


    How had the once innocent little red cap become so pragmatic, not cute at all!


    "Brother Li, take your time to think about it. There''s no rush; you still have two days," Bai Wangyu said leisurely, sitting on the stone steps and casually placing the Taiyi Sword beside him.


    Meanwhile, Li Ziye looked down from his higher position at the little red cap, wishing his glare could kill!


    After a while, Li Ziye''s eyes were almost tearing up from staring, but the little red cap remained leisurely seated, completely unaffected.


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    I''ll glare you to blindness, you scoundrel!


    Bai Wangyu had never felt so comfortable in his heart.


    "Old Bai, you''ve changed."


    After staring for a long time, Li Ziye finally decided to give up and sat down next to the little red cap, feeling dejected, and said.


    "Brother Li, it''s just a small favor. Don''t you love to be in the limelight? This is such a great opportunity. If you solve these three riddles for the Great Shang at the Heavenly Oracle Hall, you''ll be a hero of the entire Great Shang Dynasty. It''s all benefit and no harm to you. Why are you so reluctant?" Bai Wangyu asked, somewhat puzzled.


    "You don''t understand."


    Li Ziye said discontentedly, "A tree that stands out in the forest is the one that gets blown down. The Li Family is already conspicuous enough. If I stand out at this time, think about it, won''t the Li Family be pushed further into the storm? People are envious by nature; the more glorious the Li Family is, the more people there will be trying to trip us up."


    "But if Brother Li makes such a great contribution to Great Shang and becomes a hero in the hearts of the people, even those who want to deal with the Li Family would have to be wary," Bai Wangyu said.


    "You''re such a novice in palace intrigue, the kind that wouldn''t survive two episodes. The struggle for power is not as simple as you think," Li Ziye said helplessly. "Throughout history, the ones with the worst fate are those so-called heroes. Not to mention others, just look at the thousand years of the Great Shang Dynasty. Which executed general wasn''t once illustrious with unmatched military achievements and revered by the masses?"


    Hearing this, Bai Wangyu''s face showed a thoughtful expression. Li Ziye''s words seemed to make some sense.


    "So what should we do?"


    Bai Wangyu asked worriedly, "How about you tell me the answers, and I''ll take the limelight for you?"


    Li Ziye turned his head to look at the little red cap beside him and after a moment, elegantly spat out a word, "Scram!" S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ha ha."


    Bai Wangyu laughed loudly. He knew Brother Li would never give up the chance to be in the limelight.


    "If I die, I die. There are already countless people eyeing the Li Family; a few more won''t make a difference. You''re right, if I become a hero in the hearts of the people, even the court would have to think twice before dealing with the Li Family in the future."


    Saying this, Li Ziye grinned and added, "Of course, the main reason is that I''ve been in the Capital City for so long, just watching you show off. This time, it''s finally my turn, ha ha ha!"


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu saw the young man''s wild demeanor and a smile appeared on his face.


    That''s more like it. This Brother Li, fearless and bold, is the Li Family''s young hero he knew!


    A young man should be daring and carefree. How could a peerless genius like Brother Li be content with mediocrity?

 Chapter 50 – Mourongs visit

    "I refuse to marry; let whoever wishes to marry do so!"


    In the imperial palace, upon hearing the news from outside, the Ninth Princess Murong, who was usually calm, could no longer suppress the anger in her heart and burst out in rage.


    Beside her, the Fourth Prince Mu Bai sat at the table, sipping tea while watching his sister lose her temper.


    "Brother!"


    Seeing his composed demeanor, Murong couldn''t help but express her irritation, "How can you remain so calm?"


    "Don''t worry, Father won''t force you to marry into the Tianyu Hall."


    Mu Bai spoke indifferently, "You are the master of Fengyang, and Father is more aware of the stakes in this matter than anyone else; he will certainly not compromise easily."


    "But what if Great Shang cannot answer the three questions from Tianyu Hall?"


    Murong suppressed the restlessness in her heart, sat down, and said, "I''ve heard that so far, the court ministers have made no progress."


    "Isn''t there still the Imperial Academy and the Confucian Scholar?"


    Mu Bai calmly said, "If you don''t trust the court ministers, don''t you trust the Confucian Scholar? With his wisdom, he will surely find a solution."


    "I''m afraid the Confucian Scholar won''t bother with this matter."


    Murong spoke with some frustration, knowing that the Confucian Scholar rarely interfered in court affairs. If he also refused to intervene this time, she would truly have to marry far away to the Western Regions.


    Beside her, Mu Bai put down his teacup and said, "If you really can''t rest assured, brother suggests you could ask someone."


    "Who?" Murong asked.


    "The top disciple of the Confucian School, Bai Wangyu," Mu Bai replied calmly.


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    "Bai Wangyu?"


    Murong''s face showed surprise, "I heard he''s been staying in the Li Garden."


    "Aren''t you somewhat acquainted with the eldest daughter of the Li Family? You could use that connection to inquire," Mu Bai reminded her.


    A glint passed through Murong''s eyes, and after a moment, she nodded, "Brother''s reminder is timely. Indeed, I''ve been wanting to visit Li Garden to see for myself what kind of divine being the legitimate son of the Li Family is, the one who has been troubling Aunt Nan Qiao."


    "May I accompany you?" Mu Bai asked.


    "Brother wants to come along?"


    Murong''s face showed a hint of wariness, "I think, brother, you have another purpose, don''t you?"


    "In Li Garden, there''s Bai Wangyu and the legitimate son of the Li Family, both rare swordsmanship experts among the younger generation. Even if we can''t truly spar, exchanging martial arts experiences would be beneficial," Mu Bai did not hide his intentions and replied honestly.


    "I knew brother wouldn''t be content until meeting that legitimate son of the Li Family."


    Murong responded helplessly, "Fine, I can take brother with me, but let me be clear, you must not engage in a serious fight in Li Garden, at most exchange a few moves and stop at the right moment."


    "Mm."


    Mu Bai nodded, his expression calm as he agreed.


    In the Li Garden, west wing.


    Regarding whether to help the Great Shang Dynasty court solve their troubles, Li Ziye and Little Red Riding Hood had a fierce covert struggle, ending with Little Red Riding Hood''s overwhelming victory.


    Li Ziye gave in after only a few rounds of resistance; after all, with the Confucian School''s influence, he had no choice but to compromise if he wanted to obtain the Water-Fire Pearl.


    "Brother Li, not practicing swordsmanship anymore?"


    On the steps, Bai Wangyu looked at the young man beside him and asked.


    "Not in the mood."


    Li Ziye propped his chin with both hands, "I feel threatened and even bowed to evil forces; my integrity is shattered."


    "Did you ever have integrity?" Bai Wangyu asked with a puzzled face.


    "Get lost!"


    Li Ziye replied irritably, "Before I met you and the Confucian School, I always bravely resisted evil forces, neither servile nor overbearing, a true man''s nature!"


    "Heh."


    Bai Wangyu gave a half-smile, "Brother Li seems to have a misunderstanding about being neither servile nor overbearing."


    "Old Bai, it''s just that I can''t beat you right now, otherwise, you''d already be lying down."


    Li Ziye turned his head and spoke very seriously.


    "That''s a pity."


    Bai Wangyu smiled brilliantly, "With Brother Li''s current pace of cultivation, you might never have the chance in this lifetime."


    "Cough!"


    Li Ziye clutched his chest, feeling like he had been wounded by the words.


    Is this something a person would say?


    "Young Master!"


    Just then, outside the west wing, a servant boy came running in haste, "Fourth Royal Highness and Ninth Princess request an audience."


    "Not seeing them."


    Li Ziye replied subconsciously in a bad mood, then suddenly realized what he had said and asked in surprise, "Who did you say is requesting an audience?"


    "Fourth Prince and Ninth Princess."


    The servant boy wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and repeated.


    "What are they here for?"


    Li Ziye''s face showed a curious expression, "Please invite them to the front hall."


    "Yes!"


    The servant boy took the order and quickly left.


    "It might be about the Tianyu Hall matter," Bai Wangyu said. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They don''t know I have a way to solve the riddles."


    Li Ziye replied, suspiciously, "Could it be that my brilliance is already so famous in the Capital City?"


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu, struggling to suppress his disgust, said, "Perhaps the four masters informed the two Highnesses, asking them to persuade Brother Li to help."


    "Ah, being talented really does make one popular wherever they go."


    Li Ziye pretended not to hear Little Red Riding Hood''s words, stood up, and swaggered towards the main hall.


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment, then followed.


    The Fourth Prince Mu Bai was a martial arts fanatic, and to outsiders, Brother Li was the disciple of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, with an extraordinary martial arts talent, exactly the kind of opponent the Fourth Prince longed for.


    He''d better follow, to prevent any trouble.


    Brother Li''s skills were unknown to others, but he knew them well.


    In the front hall, Mu Bai and Murong arrived, and after the beautiful maidservant of Li Garden served tea and left, it wasn''t long before Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu walked in one after the other.


    "Fourth Royal Highness, Ninth Princess, your esteemed visit honors us. I apologize for not greeting you from afar; please forgive me."


    Li Ziye''s face showed his trademark radiant smile as he greeted them.


    "Young Master Li is too courteous; it is my brother and I who have intruded upon you so suddenly," Murong stepped forward, helped him up, and smiled sweetly.


    Behind her, Mu Bai watched the young man before him with a calm gaze, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.Is this the disciple of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal? Truly extraordinary in bearing, living up to her reputation.


    Behind Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu noticed the admiration in Mu Bai''s eyes and the corners of his mouth lifted slightly.


    Indeed, Mu Bai was also deceived by Brother Li''s appearance.


    It must be said, for those unaware of the truth, no one would doubt the rumors upon their first meeting with Brother Li.


    Being intimidating can also be an advantage.


    "Bai Brother."


    After observing the direct descendant of the Li Family, Mu Bai shifted his gaze to Bai Wangyu standing behind Li Ziye and nodded in greeting.


    "Your Highness."


    Bai Wangyu returned the gesture with a cupped fist salute and then quietly sat down next to Li Ziye.


    "May I know the purpose of the two Highnesses'' visit?"


    Li Ziye looked at the two opposite him and took the initiative to ask.


    "I had the fortune of meeting Sister Li once and have always admired her talent. I''ve long wished to pay a visit but never found the opportunity. Today, as I accompanied my elder brother on his errands from the palace, I took the chance to come and see Sister Li," Murong said with a smile on his face.


    "Is the Ninth Princess here to see Sister Youwei?"


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye expressed his regret, "Unfortunately, Sister Youwei left early this morning for errands and may not return until sunset."


    After speaking, Li Ziye''s mouth twitched imperceptibly, thinking to himself, keep talking, I''m not in a hurry, you can keep it up until it gets dark.


    "That really is unfortunate."


    Murong''s beautiful face also showed a hint of regret as she looked at her elder brother and asked, "Brother, do you have any matters to attend to?"


    "Yes."


    Mu Bai looked at the two in front of him and said, "Young Master Li, Bai Brother, we are all swordsmen. Why not take this opportunity to exchange some insights on the martial arts?"


    Li Ziye was slightly taken aback upon hearing this. He had long heard that the Fourth Prince was obsessed with martial arts, and seeing him today confirmed it.


    But what did he know about the martial arts? He had only been practicing for a few days; this was like forcing Zhang Fei to do embroidery!


    Moreover, exchanging insights on martial arts would inevitably lead to a few moves, and his cultivation was not enough to withstand their sparring.


    Thus, Li Ziye gave a look to the little red cap beside him, signaling, "Your turn."


    Bai Wangyu got the hint and responded, "Fourth Royal Highness, Brother Li has not been feeling well lately. How about I accompany Your Highness in exchanging martial insights?"


    Mu Bai caught the implication in Bai Wangyu''s words, his brow furrowed slightly, but it was not appropriate to insist too much, so he nodded, "That''s fine, this place is too cramped, let''s go outside."


    "Alright."


    Bai Wangyu agreed.


    As the two stood up, Murong immediately gave her brother a warning look.


    Remember to ask about the important matter, and no serious fighting.


    Mu Bai nodded slightly and then stepped towards the outside.


    Bai Wangyu followed, and before leaving, he also gave Li Ziye a warning look.


    Brother Li, she is a princess, don''t act rashly while we''re gone.


    Li Ziye understood the meaning behind the little red cap''s look and was so irritated he almost threw his teacup, but instead, he elegantly mouthed:


    "Get lost!"


    "Heh."


    Bai Wangyu smiled faintly and stepped out.


    "Young Master Li, please forgive my brother''s obsession with martial arts. He can''t help but spar with a peer when he meets one, causing you amusement," Murong said apologetically in the hall.


    "Princess, you are too kind."


    Just as Li Ziye was about to speak, a clanging of weapons could be heard from outside.


    Li Ziye was taken aback. That was quick?


    Murong''s expression also froze, and after a moment, she clenched her teeth in frustration.


    Her brother had ignored her warning again!


    Outside the hall, sword qi crisscrossed as the two figures intertwined fiercely in battle.


    Inside the hall, Murong''s face grew increasingly embarrassed, unsure of how to explain.


    It was one thing to spar, but to fight in someone else''s home was beyond excusable, even for a martial fanatic.


    "Ninth Princess, please have some tea."


    Li Ziye lifted his cup from the table and offered a toast with a smile, "The tea from Li Garden is quite good."


    Come on, continue with your performance, I love watching.


    Murong awkwardly picked up the teacup and took a sip, truly no longer in the mood to enjoy the tea.


    After a moment, Murong set down the cup, clenched her teeth, and knew she couldn''t just sit there. She took the initiative to say, "Young Master Li, actually, my brother and I came today to inquire about something."


    "Oh?"


    Li Ziye feigned surprise, "What is it?"


    Murong looked towards the fierce battle outside and sighed lightly, "Young Master Li must have heard about the wager proposed by the Heavenly Mandate Hall to our Great Shang Dynasty, concerning the face of Great Shang and my lifelong happiness. Therefore, I wanted to ask the Confucian School''s eldest disciple, Bai Wangyu, if the Confucian Scholar would intervene to resolve this matter?"


    "I see, then Princess, you need not ask him. I can answer that for you."


    Li Ziye grinned, his face beaming with a bright smile, "The Confucian Scholar will not intervene, but I will!"

 Chapter 51 – Hes here, hes coming on a rainbow cloud

    Li Yuan.


    Half an hour later, Murong and Mu Bai left together in a carriage.


    Li Ziye watched the two leave in front of Li Yuan, then hummed a tune and returned to the mansion.


    I have to say, the Ninth Princess is really beautiful.


    It wouldn''t be bad to marry her.


    It''s just that her butt isn''t big enough, and Sister Youwei might not like it.


    Outside the main hall, Bai Wangyu looked at Li Ziye, who was in a good mood, and curiously asked, "What''s making you so happy?"


    "I''m not telling you."


    Li Ziye returned to the inner courtyard with his head held high.


    This time, he helped the Ninth Princess. Maybe, if the Ninth Princess is moved, she will offer herself to him.


    Should he agree when the time comes?


    It''s a dilemma!


    In the inner courtyard, Slovenly Zhang saw Li Ziye walking towards him with a lovesick look on his face and knew that this kid was lost in his thoughts again.


    In the capital city, on the way back to the imperial palace.


    Inside the carriage, the Fourth Prince, Mu Bai, sat quietly, not saying a word.


    Across from him, Murong stared at his brother with beautiful eyes. If looks could kill, Mu Bai might have been chopped into pieces by now.


    "I didn''t mean to."


    After a long time, unable to bear the murderous look in his sister''s eyes, Mu Bai apologized.


    "Heh, the Fourth Prince is really something. You went to someone else''s mansion to show off your power. If it weren''t for Bai Wangyu backing down on her own, would you have been prepared to fight until dark?" Murong asked, her eyes flashing with dangerous light.


    "No."


    Mu Bai immediately shook his head. "It was just a sparring match. Even if Bai Wangyu hadn''t backed down, I would have stopped in time."


    He wasn''t a fool. How could he not see that his sister was on the verge of exploding? He didn''t want to harm innocent people.


    "Oh, so you have this awareness, brother?" Murong smiled faintly. "How did your inquiry go?"


    Mu Bai was taken aback at her words, then suddenly took a deep breath.


    Oh no, he was so focused on the sword fight that he forgot about the main issue!


    Sure enough!


    Seeing this, Murong''s eyes became increasingly dangerous, and she asked, "Did you forget, brother?"


    Mu Bai fell silent, not daring to speak.


    Murong closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and suppressed the anger that had surged up in her heart several times.


    Men are really unreliable!


    They''re all big idiots!


    "How about we go back and ask again?" Mu Bai spoke, although he was very anxious, his expression remained calm as he asked.


    "No need."


    Murong opened her eyes and said calmly, "I''ve already asked."


    "Asked?"


    Mu Bai was surprised and asked, "After our sparring match with Bai Wangyu, we left Li Yuan. When did you ask?"


    "Who said I asked him?" Murong said irritably.


    "If not him, then who else could you ask?" Mu Bai said half a sentence, then suddenly looked surprised and asked, "You mean Li Ziye?"


    "Yeah."


    Murong nodded, a glint of light flashing in her eyes. "This time, we may owe the Li Family a big favor."


    She didn''t know why Li Ziye had helped her, but she couldn''t ignore this favor.


    On the street, the carriage moved towards the imperial palace.


    As the sun was about to set, near the imperial palace, Mu Bai got out of the carriage and looked at his sister in the carriage, saying seriously, "If Li Ziye really can help you this time, I will repay this favor for you."


    After that, Mu Bai said no more and walked towards his own mansion.


    Three days passed as if nothing had happened.


    Three days later, in front of the Great Shang Imperial Palace, in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the courtiers gathered, and the Great Shang Emperor sat high on the thousand-level stone steps, exuding imperial majesty.


    The autumn wind blew, the canopy swayed, and the courtiers of Great Shang stood under the stone steps, looking somewhat anxious.


    Three days had passed, but no one had come up with an answer.


    It was said that the Emperor had asked for help from the Imperial Academy, but it was unknown if there was a result.


    On the stone steps, the Great Shang Emperor looked down with a calm expression, showing no ripples.


    Yesterday, the Confucian Scholar had sent a reply, saying that the three questions had been answered, but as the time approached, why hadn''t the people from the Confucian School come?


    "The envoy from the Hall of Heavenly Prophecy has arrived."


    Just then, at the end of the stone steps, a sharp voice rang out, and everyone''s eyes turned to the Xuanwu Gate. Led by Yan Xiaoyu and Liu Rongn¨¹, the people from the Divine Temple walked towards them.


    "They''re here."


    Under the worried gazes of the courtiers of Great Shang, the people from the Divine Temple came forward, paid their respects, and said, "Greetings to the Great Shang Emperor."


    "No need for formalities."


    The Great Shang Emperor spoke calmly.


    The people from the Divine Temple stood up straight, and Yan Xiaoyu, the leader, looked up at the Great Shang Emperor in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship and smiled, "Great Shang Emperor, three days have passed. I wonder if you can give us an answer?"


    After speaking, Yan Xiaoyu''s gaze swept over the courtiers on both sides, with a hint of subtle mockery at the corner of his mouth.Looking at the group of despondent people, it must be that they have not solved the answer.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the courtiers, after seeing the mocking gaze of the Divine Child in the Hall of Heavenly Worship, although they were angry, they couldn''t say anything.


    "Just wait a little longer."


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the Emperor of Shang spoke calmly.


    Below, Yan Xiaoyu heard this and looked at the Great Shang Emperor on the stone steps, saying, "If Your Majesty wants to wait, my Divine Temple can naturally wait, but I don''t know until when."


    "For the time it takes an incense stick to burn." The Emperor of Shang said slowly.


    "Good!"


    Yan Xiaoyu smiled faintly and said, "My Divine Temple will wait for the time it takes an incense stick to burn."


    Three days, the entire Great Shang Dynasty couldn''t answer the question, and he didn''t believe that they could make any progress in the time it takes an incense stick to burn.


    It was just a delay in admitting defeat.


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, an old eunuch from the palace brought an incense stick and placed it on the wooden table, lit it with a fire stick, and then stepped back.


    The incense in the palace was specially made, a short one could burn for two quarters of an hour, and a long one could last for half an hour.


    In order to delay a little more time, the old eunuch deliberately chose the longest one.


    Below the stone steps, Yan Xiaoyu saw the intention of the Great Shang court, sneered, but did not reveal it.


    Delay, let''s see how long you can delay.


    Outside the Hall of Heavenly Worship, time passed bit by bit, the autumn wind blew, and the incense ash fell. The eyes of all the courtiers of Great Shang were fixed on this incense, hoping that it would burn a little longer.


    In front of the group of courtiers, Mu Bai stood there with a calm expression, as calm and composed as ever, as if he were calm in the face of a major disaster.


    If Murong said that the legitimate son of the Li family would come, then he would definitely come.


    He did not believe in the legitimate son of the Li family, but in Murong''s judgment of people.


    "The time it takes an incense stick to burn is almost up."


    After about half an hour, below the stone steps, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the Emperor of Great Shang in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship and smiled, "Your Majesty, do you still want to wait?"


    "The incense has not burned out yet, there''s no rush." The Emperor of Shang said calmly.


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    "Heh."


    Yan Xiaoyu sneered, the monarch and his subjects of Great Shang were really not afraid of death.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the courtiers of Great Shang looked more and more anxious as they watched the incense burning out above.


    What exactly was His Majesty waiting for? Could it be that someone would really come?


    "He''s here, he''s here!"


    Just then, a young eunuch ran from outside the Basalt Gate, his face full of excitement, and said urgently, "Your Majesty, the Confucian School''s Bai Wangyu is seeking an audience, and he has brought a young man named Li Ziye."


    "Announce it!"


    The Emperor of Shang, on the dragon throne, heard this and his eyes burst into a dazzling light, and he shouted.


    "Yes!"


    The young eunuch respectfully took the order.


    The next moment, outside the Basalt Gate, a figure in a white Confucian robe walked over, attracting everyone''s attention with his dazzling presence.


    However, to everyone''s surprise, Bai Wangyu was following a young man at this moment. The young man had a face like jade, an extraordinary temperament, and a confident smile on his face that was unforgettable at first sight.


    The two came to the bottom of the stone steps, and Bai Wangyu stepped forward and respectfully saluted, "Bai Wangyu of the Confucian School pays his respects to Your Majesty!"


    On the side, Li Ziye followed suit and glanced at the courtiers around him and the Emperor of Great Shang above, with a slight smile on his lips.


    Finally, he had arrived here.


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Shang looked down at the two below, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    The Confucian School sent Bai Wangyu, the senior disciple, to come in person, so he should have really solved the three questions.


    However, why did the legitimate son of the Li family also come with him?


    "Rise."


    After a brief moment of thought, the Emperor of Shang collected his thoughts and spoke.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!"


    Below, Bai Wangyu and Li Ziye took the order and then stood up at the same time.


    Not far away, Yan Xiaoyu saw the arrival of the two at this time and had a bad premonition in his heart. He looked at the incense burning on the steps and urged, "Your Majesty of Great Shang, the time has come, please state your answer."


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Shang looked down at the senior disciple of the Confucian School and asked, "Bai Wangyu, have you solved the questions?"


    "I have." Bai Wangyu nodded, and in front of the civil and military officials and the envoys of the Divine Temple, he said seriously, "However, the one who needs to solve the questions today is not me, but the young man by my side from the Li family."


    As soon as he finished speaking, everyone was shocked, and all eyes turned to the young man beside Bai Wangyu.


    The three questions were solved by the legitimate son of the Li family?


    At this moment, even the Emperor of Shang on the dragon throne had a change in expression. The person who solved the questions, as the Confucian Scholar said, was not Bai Wangyu, but the legitimate son of the Li family? S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Everyone''s attention was on Li Ziye, and he did not show any panic. He stepped forward calmly and said, "Divine Temple envoys, the three questions you posed are too simple. I, a commoner, can answer them without bothering the courtiers of Great Shang or the gentlemen of the Confucian School."


    "How dare you!" A Divine Temple envoy next to Yan Xiaoyu heard this and showed anger, saying, "Who are you to speak so arrogantly here."


    "What, the envoys of the Divine Temple can''t even hear a word of truth?"Li Ziye''s gaze swept over Yan Xiaoyu and the envoys from Great Shang behind him, and he spoke with a righteous fervor, "When these issues arose in the Divine Temple, there was no rule specifying who must respond. Although I am neither a court official of Great Shang nor a scholar of the Imperial Academy, I am a citizen of Great Shang, and thus I have the right and the duty to stand here, to dispel the worries of Great Shang and repel foreign adversaries!"


    Having said that, Li Ziye couldn''t help but give himself a mental thumbs-up, thinking how well he had spoken; he almost believed it himself.


    "Excellent!"


    No sooner had Li Ziye finished speaking than an old minister with a beard that had already turned mostly white, Lu Siqing, immediately exclaimed in approval, "The citizens of Great Shang should indeed possess such a heart to serve their country."


    The other ministers nodded their heads in satisfaction, one after another. This young man was not bad; he was articulate and had vented their frustration for them. These past few days, they had been mocked and ridiculed by the people from the Divine Temple and had been seething with anger.


    Below the stone steps, the complexions of the envoys from the Divine Temple turned extremely unsightly, each of them looking at the youth in front of them as if they wished they could tear him apart.


    "Young Master Li, mere verbal prowess is useless and cannot solve the three riddles posed by the Divine Temple. With these unsolved, Great Shang still loses this wager," Yan Xiaoyu spoke up from the front, his voice cold.


    "Only three questions, you say? Watch closely, for I am about to solve them for you!"


    As he spoke, Li Ziye scanned all those present, straightened his posture, and cleared his throat, his intention could not be more obvious.


    Everyone take your positions, for this Young Master is about to commence a grand display of brilliance!

 Chapter 52 – The crisis in front of the emperor

    In the palace, in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, Li Ziye prepared to single-handedly challenge the group of monsters in the Divine Temple. Before making a move, he first displayed his imposing aura.


    "Your Majesty, in the process of solving the problem, I may need some assistance. I hope Your Majesty will grant me this favor," Li Ziye turned around and looked up at the Great Shang Emperor at the top of the stone steps, speaking with a respectful tone.


    "Granted!" The Great Shang Emperor nodded and replied, "Today, all the courtiers and guards in the palace can be at your disposal."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty." Li Ziye expressed his gratitude, then turned his gaze back to the people in the Divine Temple and grinned, "Now, let me answer your first question. How can you thread a line through the hole of a southern pearl without using your hands?"


    After speaking, Li Ziye took out a southern pearl and a golden thread from his pocket, then placed the pearl on the ground and the thread in front of the hole in the pearl.


    Under the curious gazes of the courtiers of Great Shang, Li Ziye took three steps back.


    One breath, two breaths...


    Amidst the tense gazes of everyone, the motionless golden thread suddenly trembled.


    "It moved! It moved!" Several courtiers with keen eyesight exclaimed excitedly.


    Upon hearing this, everyone immediately looked closely.


    They saw that the golden thread, in front of the tiny hole of the southern pearl, seemed to have grown legs and was gradually threading itself through the hole.


    On the dragon throne, the Great Shang Emperor''s eyes flashed with a hint of surprise.


    How extraordinary!


    On the other hand, the Divine Temple envoys, upon seeing this scene, all had unpleasant expressions on their faces, filled with confusion.


    What''s going on?


    The Divine Child said that no one else knows the answers to these questions, so what kind of sorcery did this kid use?


    In front of the Divine Temple envoys, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the legitimate son of the Li Family with a dangerous glint in his eyes.


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    This kid must not be allowed to live.


    Thinking back, the young man he saw in front of the Yin Family that day was very likely to be the legitimate son of the Li Family.


    The sense of dissonance was so similar that it made him feel disgusted.


    Unfortunately, he was stopped by Bai Wangyu that day and was unable to capture this person on the spot.


    "It went through!"


    At this moment, the courtiers of Great Shang suddenly erupted into intense cheers, and everyone''s attention was drawn to the golden thread that had passed through the southern pearl and gradually stopped.


    Li Ziye stepped forward, picked up the southern pearl, and casually threw it to the people in the Divine Temple, saying, "Take a look."


    One of the Divine Temple envoys took the southern pearl and looked at the golden thread threaded through it, his expression extremely unpleasant.


    "Young master of the Li Family, how did you do it?" On the side of the stone steps, an old courtier named Lu Siqing asked with a curious expression.


    "This is Lu Siqing, Lord Lu," Bai Wangyu reminded Li Ziye in a low voice, "the foremost Confucian scholar in the court, known for his integrity and high prestige."


    Upon hearing this, Li Ziye immediately showed a respectful expression and said, "Lord Lu, may I have a word with you?"


    "Of course." Lu Siqing nodded and stepped forward, his old face filled with even more curiosity.


    Li Ziye seemed to perform a magic trick as he took out another southern pearl from his pocket and handed it to the old man in front of him, smiling, "Lord Lu, take a whiff of this."


    After listening, Lu Siqing took the southern pearl, held it up to his nose, and then exclaimed in surprise, "Honey."


    "Yes, it''s honey."


    After that, Li Ziye took out a golden thread and handed it to the old man, smiling, "Lord, do you understand now?"


    Lu Siqing took the golden thread from the young man in front of him, glanced at it, first stunned, then burst into laughter, "Haha, I see, I see!"


    "What''s going on, Old Man Lu? Don''t just laugh, what''s going on?" On the sides of the stone steps, the other courtiers, upon seeing this, became even more curious and asked eagerly.


    "Don''t rush, don''t rush, haha!" Lu Siqing turned around, looked at everyone, and laughed heartily, "Do you see what''s on this golden thread?"


    On both sides, the courtiers immediately crowded around upon hearing this.


    "Ants?" One sharp-eyed courtier saw the black dots on the golden thread and said in surprise.


    "Yes, one side of the southern pearl is coated with honey. Now, imagine what would happen if you put this golden thread, with ants tied to it, in front of the hole on the other side of the southern pearl," Lu Siqing said with a proud expression.


    "Haha, I see, I see! It''s brilliant!" The courtiers who were watching suddenly realized and burst into laughter.


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the Great Shang Emperor saw this scene and also revealed a smile on his face.


    Truly a clever idea!


    "All of you courtiers, don''t crowd together. Return to your positions." With the first question solved, the Great Shang Emperor''s mood improved a lot and he smiled.


    "Yes!" The courtiers of Great Shang took their leave and returned to their respective positions.


    "Young master of the Li Family, there are still two questions. Hurry up, this old man can''t wait any longer!" Before leaving, Lu Siqing looked at the young man in front of him with some excitement and urged him.


    "Yes, Lord Lu," Li Ziye replied with a smile.


    On the side of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the excited appearance of the courtiers of Great Shang and sneered, "Even if you answer the first question correctly, so what? There are still two questions, and they are not as simple as this."


    "That''s for your Divine Temple to consider."


    As someone who never suffered losses since childhood, Li Ziye was unwilling to lose in a battle of words and immediately retorted, "If it weren''t for this being the sacred grounds of the palace, any random girl pulled from the red-light district could answer your three questions."


    "Vulgar!" The Divine Temple envoys responded with flushed faces.


    On the sides of the stone steps, the courtiers of Great Shang pretended not to have heard Li Ziye''s words, maintaining a calm composure. In fact, if it weren''t for their status, they would have wanted to curse at him a long time ago.


    This kid is quite something!


    "Li Ziye, don''t boast. There are still two questions. Speak your answers."In front of the Divine Temple''s envoys, Yan Xiaoyu watched the young man ahead with a cold voice.


    "Don''t rush."


    Li Ziye said indifferently, "It will soon be as you wish."


    After speaking, Li Ziye looked towards the Emperor of Great Shang in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship and said, "Your Majesty, for the second question, we need to use a hundred horses as test subjects. That''s why there was a delay when coming earlier. Now, these horses are outside the imperial palace. May I ask Your Majesty, can we bring these hundred horses into the palace?"


    "Granted!"


    Under the imperial canopy, the Emperor of Great Shang nodded and replied.


    Outside the palace, a slovenly old man was herding a group of horses, waiting. Upon hearing the message from the palace, he grinned and drove all the horses into the palace.


    After the old man herded the first batch of horses into the palace, it wasn''t long before a person wearing a bamboo hat came with the second batch of horses, this time all of them were newborn foals.


    The two batches of horses entered the palace one after another, and immediately the imperial guards came forward to help with the horses. It was a critical area of the palace, and no one dared to be careless.


    However, the old man and the person in the bamboo hat, looking so ordinary, herded the mares and foals into the palace without attracting any attention.


    Yet, in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, Li Ziye''s expression clearly shook when he saw the two people coming one after the other.


    In front of the ministers, Mu Bai at the end of the stone steps, for some reason, felt an indescribable sense of oppression.


    Strange!


    Mu Bai''s gaze was fixed on the two people, observing them for a long time, but he couldn''t detect anything unusual.


    There was no fluctuation of Genuine Qi, they looked just like ordinary people, but he felt a sword pressure, an unusual sword pressure.


    Moreover, both people had this kind of sword pressure!


    On both sides of the stone steps, the court ministers did not notice anything unusual, their gaze turned to the direct descendant of the Li Family, waiting for him to unveil the answer.


    With everyone''s attention, Li Ziye recovered from his shock, suppressed the waves in his heart, and looked towards the Emperor of Great Shang and the ministers on both sides, saying, "Your Majesty, esteemed officials, please watch carefully."


    After speaking, Li Ziye stood on the stone steps, bowed respectfully to the two people coming from outside the Basalt Gate, and said, "Please, two masters and the imperial guards, let the horses go."


    In front of the Basalt Gate, the old man and the person in the bamboo hat exchanged glances from afar, then they both released the ropes in their hands.


    Beside them, the chief commander of the imperial guards hesitated for a moment before also ordering the release of the reins.


    In an instant, in front of the Basalt Gate, a spectacular scene unfolded as fifty mares and fifty foals neighed and desperately ran towards each other.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the ministers were shocked by this spectacular sight.


    In the midst of everyone''s astonished gaze, in front of the Basalt Gate, the fifty mares quickly found their own offspring and joyfully nursed them.


    On both sides of the stone steps, some ministers, seeing this, pondered and began to understand what was happening.


    So that''s how it is!


    "What''s going on, does anyone understand?"


    Most of the ministers, who were clueless, anxiously pulled on others, asking.


    "Actually, the reason is very simple. Didn''t you see that those mares immediately nursed their foals after finding them? It shows that the mares and foals have been separated for at least a day. The mares were worried about their offspring being hungry, so they went straight back to their children instead of running around as usual." An observant minister patiently explained to the others.


    "So that''s it."


    Upon hearing the explanation, the ministers had an epiphany, enlightened!


    "Li Family''s youngster, impressive!"


    Suddenly, voices of admiration arose among the ministers, especially Lu Siqing, who was so excited that he could hardly close his mouth.


    This kid is good, very much to his liking!


    Among the ministers, facing the praise from the Great Shang officials, Li Ziye returned the salutes one by one, acting properly in this formal occasion.


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Great Shang also nodded in satisfaction, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes.


    The Li Family is remarkable, having produced such an impressive son.


    "Friends from the Divine Temple, do you need to confirm? Each pair of horses has the same mark. If you don''t believe it, you can verify it yourself."


    Below the stone steps, after returning the salutes to the ministers, Li Ziye''s gaze turned to the envoys of the Divine Temple not far away, his smile disappearing, and he spoke indifferently.


    "No need."


    From the Divine Temple''s side, Yan Xiaoyu spoke up with a cold voice, "This round, you pass. The final question, how to create fire with water, if you can''t guess it, you still won''t be considered winners!"


    "Heh."


    Li Ziye heard this, smiled faintly, and said, "This question is even simpler."


    After speaking, Li Ziye looked towards the Emperor of Great Shang under the canopy and requested, "Your Majesty, I need a block of ice about a foot in length and width!"


    "Granted!"


    The Emperor of Great Shang nodded and replied once more.


    Not far away, Yan Xiaoyu''s expression changed upon hearing Li Ziye''s request.


    Before long, two eunuchs carrying an ice box came over, perhaps because the ice box was too cold, their hands were trembling from the chill.


    "Bai brother, it''s up to you!"


    Li Ziye turned around and smiled, saying that this dirty and tiring work was more suitable for Little Red Riding Hood.


    Bai Wangyu nodded, stepped forward, took the ice block out of the ice box, and then, with fingers Condensed Qi, turned Qi into a sword, and began to carve the ice block one stroke at a time.


    In his spare time, Li Ziye looked towards the figure in the bamboo hat in front of the Basalt Gate, grinning.


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    Look, your cute disciple hasn''t let you down, right?


    "Qin E''nuo."


    In front of the ministers, the Rakshasa King Tao Yaoyao, who had not spoken until now, curved her lips slightly, Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, coming to the imperial palace at this time, are you worried someone might trouble your precious disciple?

 Chapter 53 – A Sword Shocking the World

    In front of the court, Li Ziye broke the gambling game of the Divine Temple, with only the final question left.


    The courtiers were all watching, with a mix of anticipation and nervousness in their expressions.


    This was the final question, and if answered correctly, Great Shang would win the gambling game.


    If not, all previous efforts would be in vain.


    The young master of the Li Family couldn''t afford to lose!


    The courtiers looked at the young man in front of them, their eyes filled with encouragement and expectation.


    Unprecedentedly, a young man carried the hopes of everyone.


    At this moment, he was like lightning, like light, like the only myth.


    On the stone steps, Li Ziye felt the expectant gazes of the courtiers and immediately gave a reassuring look.


    It meant that a small fry like the Divine Temple could be defeated by him at any moment.


    Receiving a response, the courtiers all showed friendly smiles, feeling slightly relieved.


    On the side of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu and others saw the meaningful glances between Li Ziye and the courtiers of Great Shang, and they were gnashing their teeth in anger, but there was nothing they could do.


    "Divine Child, we won''t lose, will we?" A Divine Temple messenger stepped forward and asked in a serious tone.


    "No, we won''t," Yan Xiaoyu said in a deep voice. The Divine Temple would never lose.


    After speaking, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the red-robed old man beside him and nodded.


    Liu Rongn¨¹ also nodded and looked at the sky with her old eyes slightly squinted.


    It seemed that she would have to use the divine art bestowed by the Temple Master.


    They hadn''t expected that the Great Shang Dynasty would force them to this extent.


    In the middle of the stone steps, Bai Wangyu calmly used his energy to shape the ice in his hand, undisturbed by anyone, as if he transcended everything in the world.


    "Swish!"


    "Swish!"


    "Swish!"


    Every time the sword energy passed, it would bring up a sparkling ice flower, with a crisp sound that gradually attracted the attention of everyone present.


    Perhaps there are people who naturally give others a sense of peace, and Bai Wangyu was one of them.


    In such a tense atmosphere, everyone couldn''t help but feel heavy-hearted, but when everyone''s gaze turned to the senior brother of the Confucian School in the middle, their hearts gradually calmed down.


    In this way, more and more people looked at the senior brother, silently watching without speaking.


    Seeing this, tears almost welled up in Li Ziye''s eyes.


    How can you still act cool like this!


    You promised not to steal the limelight today, you promised that today was his show!


    The earth is so big, it can hardly contain you.


    With everyone''s attention, Li Ziye, with a resentful look, took the ice formation from Bai Wangyu, nodded in satisfaction, and immediately shifted the focus, not giving Little Red Riding Hood a chance to steal the limelight from him again.


    This guy is just too conspicuous. If you''re not careful, he''ll steal the limelight.


    It''s hard to guard against!


    Bai Wangyu smiled and obediently stepped aside.


    "Everyone, watch closely!" Li Ziye''s gaze swept over everyone present, cleared his throat, raised his voice, and immediately attracted everyone''s attention.


    At his words, everyone immediately looked over.


    Li Ziye satisfactorily took out a ball of cotton from his arms and placed it on the ground. Then, he raised the ice mirror, focused the sunlight on the cotton, and soon it was enough to ignite it.


    The autumn sun wasn''t too strong, but it was enough to ignite the cotton.


    Under the curious gazes of everyone, wisps of black smoke rose from the cotton, as if it was about to ignite.


    "It''s catching fire, it''s catching fire!" Among the courtiers of Great Shang, the old courtier Lu Siqing couldn''t help but get excited.


    On the contrary, the faces of the Divine Temple''s messengers all darkened. The thought of losing to Great Shang made them feel extremely unwilling.


    "High Priest Liu Rongn¨¹!" In front of the messengers, Yan Xiaoyu looked ahead with a cold expression.


    "Understood," Liu Rongn¨¹ nodded, a flash of light passing through her old eyes. Then, she turned her hands, raised her head to the sky, and a dazzling white light rose from her body, revealing the divine art.


    In an instant, the sky was filled with billowing clouds and mist, gathering from all directions, rolling and surging, obscuring the sun!


    The sudden turn of events shocked everyone present. No one had expected that just when Great Shang was about to win, such a change would occur.


    "Damn it!" In the middle of the stone steps, Li Ziye saw the cotton being blown away and couldn''t help but curse. How could they do this?


    They couldn''t outsmart him intellectually, so they used magic?


    Isn''t this bullying!


    "Despicable, too despicable!" The courtiers of Great Shang saw the Divine Temple''s little tricks and couldn''t help but start to vent their anger.


    In front of the messengers of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu, hearing the accusations from the courtiers of Great Shang, didn''t care at all and smiled, "There was no rule before that our Divine Temple had to cooperate with you in solving the problem. Moreover, High Priest Liu Rongn¨¹ didn''t offend anyone, nor did she harm anyone. It doesn''t count as breaking the rules."


    "Despicable! Shameless!" Among the courtiers of Great Shang, the old courtier Lu Siqing''s face turned pale with anger. The people of the Divine Temple had no shame at all!


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Shang saw this scene and his expression turned cold.


    The divine art, unexpectedly, besides that scholar, someone else in the Divine Temple had actually mastered this divine art.


    Strange, Liu Rongn¨¹ shouldn''t have this level of cultivation!"Great Shang, may I ask if there is a way to answer the third question? If not, then this round will be considered a victory for our Divine Temple," said Yan Xiaoyu, looking at the Emperor of Great Shang on the stone steps.


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the Emperor did not respond, his gaze fixed on the young master of the Li Family, waiting for an answer.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the court officials also looked towards the young man in the middle, their eyes filled with anticipation.


    Could this young master of the Li Family, who shocked everyone, continue to create miracles?


    Under the expectant gazes of everyone, Li Ziye glanced at the dark clouds in the sky and said, "Is there no one who can split these clouds?"


    "The Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle cannot be stopped by anyone, not even a Five Realms Grand Cultivator," said the Emperor calmly from the dragon throne.


    Below, the court officials subconsciously looked towards several martial kings upon hearing this, their expressions filled with anticipation.


    "Your Majesty speaks the truth," nodded the martial kings in agreement.


    The Five Realms have their strong and weak, and the Divine Temple''s Five Realms are not limited to just one person. However, in the past hundred years, only the Temple Master has been able to cultivate the Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle.


    It''s not because the Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle is strong, but because that scholar is too strong!


    However, today, Liu Rongn¨¹ unexpectedly used the Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle, which was truly puzzling.


    Even if Liu Rongn¨¹''s Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle is not as good as that of the Temple Master, it is not something an ordinary Five Realms cultivator can break.


    Unless the Confucian Scholar from the Imperial Academy takes action!


    But everyone knows that it is almost impossible.


    The Confucian Scholar has been with the Imperial Academy for nearly a hundred years and has never truly taken action. Everyone knows that the Confucian Scholar is strong, but no one knows exactly how strong.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the court officials felt heavy-hearted after hearing the Emperor and the martial kings'' responses.


    Could it be that no one can break the Divine Technique of the Heavenly Oracle?


    In front of the Basalt Gate, the slovenly old man and the woman in a bamboo hat looked towards the dark clouds covering the sun in the sky, their brows furrowed at the same time.


    "Should you go, or should I?" asked the woman in the bamboo hat, transmitting her voice.


    "You are his master, so of course it should be you!" the slovenly old man grinned.


    The woman in the bamboo hat nodded and looked towards the Emperor in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, asking, "Your Majesty, may I borrow a sword?"


    The woman''s voice was not loud, but it was as clear as thunder in the ears of everyone in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship.


    On both sides of the stone steps, the court officials were all surprised, and their gazes turned towards the Basalt Gate.


    Who was speaking?


    Around the Basalt Gate, a military leader''s expression changed upon hearing this, and he immediately drew his sword and stood guard, alert.


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor''s expression did not change much, maintaining his composure as an emperor.


    In front of the Basalt Gate, the woman in the bamboo hat stood surrounded by the military, silent, and gazed at the Emperor in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, waiting for a response.


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    "Granted!" said the Emperor from the top of the stone steps, speaking slowly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," replied the woman in the bamboo hat, and then her true qi surged out from her body, and the five divine hidden techniques thundered and appeared.


    "A Five Realms Grand Cultivator!"


    Inside the palace, whether it was the military or the court martial generals, they all showed expressions of shock upon seeing this scene.


    On the side of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu and Liu Rongn¨¹ also had solemn expressions upon witnessing this.


    Not only a Five Realms Grand Cultivator, but also an extraordinary one!


    On the top of the stone steps, the Emperor gestured, and a eunuch brought a sword, exquisitely adorned with ancient jade inlays, known as the Emperor''s Sword.


    "Drink!" The woman in the bamboo hat shouted, and her true qi surged like a raging wave, her astonishing cultivation shocking everyone present.


    "Master Fairy."


    In the middle of the stone steps, Li Ziye saw this scene, and tears glistened in his eyes.


    He knew that Master Fairy''s appearance in the palace today was definitely because she was worried about his safety.


    All eyes were fixed on the Basalt Gate, where the woman in the bamboo hat fully displayed her cultivation, pointing her sword, and the entire palace was engulfed in a wild storm without any wind.


    This shocking scene was imprinted in everyone''s minds.


    "The Sword of Heaven and Earth!"


    A clear and melodious shout, and the woman''s bamboo hat shattered, revealing a peerlessly beautiful face.


    Her dark hair danced wildly, and her sword qi soared into the sky!


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    In an instant, in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the eunuch''s Emperor''s Sword unsheathed with a resounding sound, like a blazing meteor, soaring straight into the sky.


    The Sword of Heaven and Earth, a sword that astounded the world.


    In the astonished gazes of everyone, the Emperor''s Sword soared into the sky, breaking through the clouds that covered the sky.


    The earth-shattering tremor rang out, and the dark clouds dispersed, and the sunlight once again bathed the earth, warming the world.


    Below, everyone witnessed this world-shaking scene and found it hard to regain their composure for a long time.


    A world-shaking sword, so shocking, completely subverted everyone''s understanding of powerful martial artists present.


    A sword of the mortal world, could it be so powerful?


    "Spurt!"


    On the side of the Divine Temple, Liu Rongn¨¹ staggered and spat out a mouthful of blood, suffering backlash from her technique, severely injured.


    "Great Archbishop!"


    The Divine Temple''s envoys showed expressions of shock and hurriedly reached out to support her.Before the gates of Basalt, Qin E''nuo, clad in a plum-white long dress, waved her hand to return the Emperor''s Sword, and then courteously bowed to the Merchant Emperor in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship: "Thank you, Your Majesty, for lending me the sword."


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the Merchant Emperor rose for the first time, returning the gesture with a bow, and said, "Sword Immortal, you are too kind."

 Chapter 54 – After waiting for a long time, I finally waited until today

    In front of the Xuanwu Gate, the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal broke through the haze with a sword, cutting through the clouds and revealing the sun once again.


    In the Divine Temple, the Chief Bishop Hongyi, under the backlash of divine art, was seriously injured and no longer had the ability to use it again.


    On the side of the Divine Temple, all the envoys had very unpleasant expressions. They never expected that, apart from the Temple Master and the Confucian Scholar of the Imperial Academy, there would be someone in this world who could dispel the divine art.


    The envoys of the Divine Temple were uncomfortable, but the officials of the Great Shang Dynasty were smiling, as bright as flowers in full bloom.


    Finally, someone had vented their anger for them!


    I heard that the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal is the master of this Li Family kid?


    This master and disciple pair is really good.


    They have given face to our Great Shang Dynasty!


    "Fairy Master!"


    On the stone steps, Li Ziye looked at the extraordinary woman in front of the Xuanwu Gate and shouted loudly, "I miss you!"


    The sudden shout startled everyone present.


    Although the Great Shang Dynasty was based on martial arts and law, etiquette was also strict. Shouting like this in public, especially in front of the emperor, was really inappropriate.


    However, this was for the sake of others.


    Perhaps because Li Ziye and Qin E''nuo, this master and disciple pair, had just made great contributions to the Great Shang Dynasty, the courtiers present suddenly felt that the Li Family kid''s disregard for etiquette was actually sincere and lovely!


    Li Ziye ignored these hypocritical courtiers and looked at the fairy master in front of the Xuanwu Gate with a look of longing in his eyes.


    In front of the Xuanwu Gate, Qin E''nuo heard Li Ziye''s shocking confession and a warm smile appeared at the corner of her mouth, but her tone was still indifferent, "Do what you need to do. If you lose this round, be careful, I will deal with you when I get back!"


    "Fairy Master, rest assured. If I lose, I don''t need you to say anything, I will jump down from the Hall of Heavenly Worship myself." Li Ziye grinned.


    "Gasp!"


    On both sides of the stone steps, the courtiers of the Great Shang Dynasty were taken aback by Li Family kid''s unreserved words.


    He''s gone mad, completely mad!


    He dares to say that he will jump down from the Hall of Heavenly Worship!


    This is outrageous.


    Well, since His Majesty didn''t say anything, they could just pretend not to hear it!


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of the Great Shang looked at the kid of the Li Family below, and instead of being displeased, he showed a smile.


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    If this legitimate son of the Li Family was a deeply scheming person without any flaws, he would be somewhat wary.


    But if this legitimate son of the Li Family was just a little clever and could be caught or exposed at any time, the court could make use of him!


    On the stone steps, Li Ziye turned his back to the Emperor of the Great Shang and smiled without leaving a trace.


    The bigger the tree, the more wind it attracts!


    "Li Family kid, the ice in your hand is almost melted. Do you want to ask His Majesty for another piece of ice to make a new ice sculpture?" an old courtier, Lu Siqing, reminded, still thinking about the matter of solving the problem.


    This kid is really exasperating. It''s already so late, and he''s still so leisurely. Hurry up and solve the third problem!


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of the Great Shang looked at Li Family kid below and said with a smile, "Li Ziye, if you need ice, I can order someone to bring another piece for you."


    "Your Majesty, there''s no need."


    In the middle of the stone steps, Li Ziye turned around, bowed, and said, "Actually, this problem can be solved without ice."


    After speaking, Li Ziye looked towards the Divine Temple and said calmly, "Today, I will make you all admit defeat and show the Divine Temple what it means for a country to have outstanding talents."


    "Sharp words!"


    In front of the envoys of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu stared coldly at the person in front of him, with a hint of killing intent in his eyes, and said in a cold voice.


    "Later, you won''t be so stubborn!"


    Li Ziye sneered, once again bowed respectfully to the Emperor of the Great Shang in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, and asked for an order, "Your Majesty, the method to solve the next problem requires someone from outside the palace to bring something. I hope Your Majesty will allow her to enter the palace!"


    "Granted!"


    On the stone steps, the Emperor of the Great Shang did not hesitate at all and directly agreed.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!"


    Li Ziye stood up straight, looked at the fairy master outside the Xuanwu Gate, and said, "Hong Zhu, it''s your turn to come out!"


    Outside the palace, a young eunuch hurried over and, seeing the red-clothed woman waiting outside, said urgently, "Are you Miss Hong Zhu?"


    "Yes." Hong Zhu smiled and replied.


    "Then please come into the palace quickly. His Majesty and the courtiers are all waiting for you!" the young eunuch urged.


    "What about the things behind me?"


    Hong Zhu turned around, looked at the carriage behind her, and smiled, "Little Eunuch, none of these things can be left behind."


    Upon hearing this, the young eunuch glanced at the things on the carriage, then turned to the soldiers guarding the palace gate and said, "Don''t just stand there, come and help. If you delay His Majesty''s important matters, each of you will be in big trouble!"


    "Yes!"


    At the palace gate, the general of the palace guards was so frightened by the order that he broke out in a cold sweat and hurried forward to help.


    Seeing this, Hong Zhu smiled and, without paying any attention to the heavy load behind her, leisurely walked towards the palace.


    This was actually her first time coming to the palace.Young Master said, if it''s a clear sky today, she won''t have a chance to enter the palace.


    Originally, she was a little regretful, until just now, when she saw the sky suddenly darken, she couldn''t help but feel a little excited.


    The sky darkened, and she could enter the palace!


    In the imperial palace, at the Basalt Gate, a figure in red, Hong Zhu, walked forward, followed by three or five imperial guards carrying something, sweating profusely.


    On the steps in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the court officials looked at what the imperial guards were carrying, their expressions all showing surprise.


    What is this? The cauldron doesn''t look like a cauldron, and the stove doesn''t look like a stove. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Clang!"


    On the steps, the imperial guards set down the bronze stove, then bowed to the Emperor of Great Shang before retreating.


    "Go and check it out."


    Li Ziye glanced at the Divine Temple envoys and sneered, "Don''t make excuses if you lose later!"


    On the side of the Divine Temple, the envoys'' faces darkened, but they still sent someone forward to check for any abnormalities.


    "Divine Child."


    After a while, the Divine Temple envoy who went to check shook his head, indicating that there was nothing unusual.


    "Let''s begin. No need for that ice realm. Let''s see how you can produce fire with water!"


    Yan Xiaoyu, seeing this, looked at the legitimate son of the Li Family in front of him and said in a deep voice.


    "Open your eyes wide and watch carefully!"


    Li Ziye sneered and then stepped forward, taking a bucket of water from a eunuch and pouring it directly into the bronze stove.


    After doing this, Li Ziye casually threw the wooden bucket aside and walked back.


    "Is that it?"


    The officials of Great Shang were taken aback, and Lu Siqing, coming to his senses, quickly asked, "Is that it?"


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "That''s it."


    Lu Siqing and the other officials looked at the bronze stove below the steps, puzzled. "What about the fire?"


    Li Ziye smiled but didn''t answer.


    At this point, it was clear that there was no sense of anticipation.


    Seeing this, everyone''s gaze turned to the bronze stove below the steps, and they began to wait.


    However, after waiting for a long time, the bronze stove remained motionless, without any response. As a result, the officials of Great Shang began to feel nervous.


    Could something have gone wrong?


    Not far away, the Divine Temple envoys, who had been on edge, saw that the bronze stove remained motionless and let out a sigh of relief, mocking, "We thought Great Shang had some ability, but in the end, it''s just a trick."


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Great Shang frowned slightly.


    What''s going on? Could this kid really just be playing tricks?


    But the person chosen by the Confucian Scholar should not be wrong.


    In front of the Basalt Gate, Zhang Slovenly, who had been waiting to watch the excitement, saw the strange situation in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship and said in a strange tone, "Old Qin, did that kid mess up?"


    "No."


    Qin E''nuo said lightly, "I believe in him."


    "Young Master Ziye, what''s going on? Did you mess up?"


    In the middle of the steps, Hong Zhu looked at the motionless broken stove below and whispered.


    "No, just wait." Li Ziye said softly.


    However, while Li Ziye could wait, some people couldn''t wait any longer.


    "Your Majesty of Great Shang, if it''s really not working, just admit defeat. Haha, you clearly had a chance to win just now, but you gave up on your own. You said you didn''t need that ice realm, so you can''t go back on your word!"


    Below the steps in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, a Divine Temple envoy saw the increasingly serious expressions of the officials of Great Shang and laughed heartily.


    On both sides of the steps, the officials of Great Shang heard the mockery of the Divine Temple envoys and their faces became very ugly, their eyes couldn''t help but look at the young man in front of them, full of confusion.


    What''s going on?


    Does this kid really have the confidence? Great Shang can''t afford to lose this round!


    "Your Majesty of Great Shang, it''s been a long time. Can you admit defeat now?"


    On the side of the Divine Temple, Yan Xiaoyu looked at the Emperor of Great Shang in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, pressing him aggressively.


    In front of the hall, the Emperor of Great Shang did not answer, but stared at the young man below. Now, they could only trust this young man from the Li Family!


    "Your Majesty of Great Shang!"


    Seeing that the officials of Great Shang were not speaking, Yan Xiaoyu sneered and continued to urge them, truly feeling that the God of Light was blessing them. He had thought that the Divine Temple was going to lose just now, but he didn''t expect such a turn of events.


    Behind him, the Divine Temple envoys became even more excited, one by one unable to help but start to mock and ridicule:


    "Great Shang is considered a great nation, how can they have such a small mind? Is it so difficult to admit defeat once?"


    "Yes, by holding on like this, aren''t you losing face!"


    "Hey, I didn''t expect this. This is what they call the Celestial Empire, without even the courage to admit defeat!"


    "Your Majesty of Great Shang, it seems that you have chosen the wrong person, a little brat who can''t see his own abilities clearly, just standing here..."


    "Boom!"


    Just as the Divine Temple envoys were about to say all sorts of unpleasant things, a earth-shattering explosion suddenly rang out from below the steps, shocking everyone present.In the midst of the explosion, a massive fireball soared into the sky, and a terrifying heatwave swept over, forcing the nearest imperial guards to stagger back several steps.


    At this moment, whether it was the officials of the Great Shang Dynasty or the envoys from the Divine Temple, all were stunned, their gazes fixed on the colossal blaze that erupted below, their faces showing a look of horror.


    What is this!


    In the middle of the stone steps, Li Ziye''s face broke into a radiant smile as he turned and asked, "Everyone, what do you think, does this count as fire?"

 Chapter 55 – National Scholar

    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the flames soared into the sky, leaving everyone stunned and speechless.


    Li Ziye wiped away a cold sweat quietly, relieved that he didn''t mess up the plan!


    "This, this is impossible!"


    On the side of the Divine Temple, the envoys shook their heads in disbelief, unable to comprehend what was happening before their eyes.


    What exactly had happened, and why did such a massive burst of flames suddenly appear?


    "After waiting for so long, I finally achieved my dream after dreaming for so long..."


    Li Ziye looked at the shocked expressions of the crowd, feeling extremely relieved and even humming a little tune!


    Finally, he had a chance to show off!


    Since arriving in the capital city, he had never felt so exhilarated. He had been constantly beaten by Xiaohong, and had been outshone in every aspect. Even when trying to show off or fight a small monster, he had to be on high alert for this guy to come and steal the limelight at a critical moment.


    Today, for the first time in history, he successfully stole the limelight in front of everyone!


    At this moment, Li Ziye felt like crying.


    It was not easy at all!


    "What''s going on, what happened? Li Family boy, explain quickly!"


    Among the ministers of the Great Shang Dynasty, L¨¹ Siqing was the first to suppress his curiosity and urgently asked the young man in front of him who seemed to be having some kind of fit.


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Shang also looked curious and awaited an explanation from the young man of the Li Family.


    "Well, this bronze furnace is divided into upper and lower layers. In the lower layer, I placed something called lime."


    Li Ziye grinned, "Gentlemen, some of you should have heard of it."


    "Lime?"


    On the steps, the various ministers of the Great Shang looked at each other, some confused, some thoughtful.


    "The old man has heard of it. Isn''t that something alchemists use to refine pills?"


    L¨¹ Siqing, who had lived a long life and seen a lot, spoke up, somewhat puzzled, and continued to ask.


    "The old man is right."


    Li Ziye smiled, "This lime is divided into quicklime and slaked lime. When quicklime comes into contact with water, it produces a large amount of heat. As long as cotton, dry grass, and other flammable materials are placed on the upper layer of the bronze furnace, it is enough to start a fire."


    "But that''s not right, the explosion just now clearly wasn''t caused by cotton or dry grass!" L¨¹ Siqing noticed something was wrong and said.


    "The old man is indeed observant."


    Li Ziye smiled and glanced at the people from the Divine Temple not far away, "I was worried that the friends from the Divine Temple wouldn''t be able to see clearly if the flames were too small, so I didn''t use cotton or dry grass. Instead, I prepared some rare items invented by alchemists, called gunpowder!"


    "Gunpowder?"


    The ministers of the Great Shang looked at each other, shaking their heads, having never heard of it.


    On the dragon throne, the Emperor of Shang became somewhat interested in the young man''s mention of gunpowder and asked, "Li Family boy, does the Li Family still have this gunpowder? I also want to see what this thing is."


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, it''s already used up."


    Li Ziye immediately shook his head, sincerely saying, "The formula for this gunpowder is complex, and several of the ingredients are extremely rare. Just for the gunpowder just now, the Li Family spent three whole days preparing it. Of course, if Your Majesty wants, I can send someone to try to find these ingredients again after returning today, but it may take a few days. I hope Your Majesty can forgive me."


    After speaking, Li Ziye coldly snorted in his heart. Hmph, this old man is really cunning, trying to trick him into saying something, but he won''t fall for it.


    As the son of the plane, how could I not understand your intentions?


    "I see, there''s no need then."


    Upon hearing this, the Emperor of Shang frowned slightly. With the financial and material resources of the Li Family, it was impossible to mass-produce this gunpowder.


    What a pity!


    "To the friends from the Divine Temple, let''s call it even. In fact, the Great Shang has a wide variety of treasures and doesn''t lack the two or three so-called treasures from the Divine Temple. But since you''ve come all this way to offer them, the Great Shang can only reluctantly accept them."


    In the middle of the steps, after dealing with the Emperor of Shang, Li Ziye turned around and looked at the people from the Divine Temple, who looked as if they had eaten flies, and didn''t forget to rub salt in the wound and taunt them a little more.


    Since he had already offended the Divine Temple, he wasn''t afraid to offend them a little more thoroughly. At least he felt good for now!


    On the side of the Divine Temple, the expressions of the temple envoys were filled with anger, and if it weren''t for the Great Shang Imperial Palace, someone would have probably rushed up by now.


    This kid is just too arrogant!


    "Li Family boy, you should understand the rules."


    Among the ministers, the old minister L¨¹ Siqing laughed heartily, not knowing whether he was reminding them or provoking the people from the Divine Temple, deliberately raising his voice and saying.


    "The old man is teaching a lesson."


    Li Ziye respectfully bowed, grinning, "I''m just a country bumpkin, not well-read, and indeed don''t understand much about etiquette. This time, if it weren''t for the envoys of the Divine Temple initiating this inappropriate gambling game, and the gentlemen being too proud to answer, I, a country bumpkin who doesn''t know many big words, wouldn''t have had the chance to come to the Imperial Palace. I hope Your Majesty and the gentlemen can forgive my rudeness."


    After speaking, Li Ziye bowed to the Emperor and the ministers on both sides, looking genuinely apologetic.


    "You!"


    On the side of the Divine Temple, an envoy pointed a trembling finger, so angry that he was about to collapse.


    "Pfft!"


    Finally, with his anger overwhelming him, the envoy''s chest surged, and he spat out a mouthful of blood, staggering and falling down.


    In the middle of the steps, Li Ziye was startled to see this.


    Spitting out blood from anger?


    Was he that powerful? Is this some kind of internal energy!


    Subconsciously, Li Ziye looked at Yan Xiaoyu, who was in front of the temple envoys.


    Should he try his best to make this guy spit out blood too?


    In front of the temple envoys, Yan Xiaoyu sensed the gaze of the young man in front of him and saw the constant flickering of killing intent in his eyes.


    Very good, this kid had truly angered him. For so many years, this was the first time he had wanted to kill someone so badly!


    Behind Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu felt the killing intent from Yan Xiaoyu, took a step forward, and his expression turned cold, directly expressing his attitude.


    If you want to move him, you have to get through me first!Li Ziye, upon seeing the situation, was deeply moved. Little Red Riding Hood was truly the best to him. Just moments ago, he had almost chickened out.


    With Little Red Riding Hood''s support, Li Ziye straightened his back once more, fearlessly staring down Yan Xiaoyu with a provocative glint in his eyes.


    Come at me if you dare!


    "Crack! Crack!"


    Yan Xiaoyu''s hands clenched the ground, making cracking sounds, while the Divine Hidden Technique in his chest thundered, almost unable to hold back.


    On the Dragon Throne, the Emperor of Great Shang watched the scene below, sitting quietly without any intention of intervening.


    If this Divine Child of the Hall of Heavenly Worship dared to make a move in front of the Hall, he wouldn''t mind keeping this person here permanently.


    Breaking the arm of that scholar would surely cause him great pain.


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the atmosphere grew increasingly tense, everyone holding their breath, watching the unfolding events.


    "Let''s go!"


    After a long while, Yan Xiaoyu forcefully suppressed the anger in his heart, bowed to the Emperor of Great Shang on the Hall, and then led the envoys of the Divine Temple away.


    Seeing this, the ministers on both sides of the stone steps breathed a sigh of relief.


    Truth be told, they too feared that the Divine Child would act impulsively, for causing a disturbance in the Emperor''s presence was a responsibility none could bear.


    However, a hint of regret flashed in the Emperor''s eyes on the stone steps. What a pity!


    It seemed that Yan Xiaoyu was not the reckless type.


    In front of the Basalt Gate, Yan Xiaoyu led the envoys of the Divine Temple past, while on both sides, Slovenly Zhang and Qin E''nuo stood quietly¡ªone reeking of alcohol with a silly grin, the other peerlessly elegant with a transcendent aura. These two different individuals exerted the same, almost suffocating, pressure on the people of the Divine Temple.


    Mortal Sword Immortals, daring to draw their swords against the heavens, fearless¡ªthat is the essence of a Sword Immortal.


    They dared to say that had there been a confrontation in front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, these two Sword Immortals would have surely cut them all down.


    Under the watchful eyes of the two Sword Immortals, the people of the Hall of Heavenly Worship hurriedly left the palace. The attention of the Great Shang ministers returned to the young man in the center.


    At this moment, the faces of the ministers all bore amiable smiles.


    Today, this youngster had indeed made them proud!


    "Li Ziye, today, you have made a great contribution to our Great Shang. What reward would you like?" the Emperor asked, smiling down at the young man below. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Your Majesty, I would like the Water-Fire Pearl," Li Ziye said respectfully and directly.


    His words left both the Emperor and the ministers of the Great Shang Dynasty stunned.


    Was he really being so direct?


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    In the past, even if a minister had made a great contribution, he would typically offer some pretext, claiming that serving the court was his duty and that he required no reward.


    For a direct descendant of the Li Family to openly ask for a reward was indeed unprecedented.


    The Emperor, recovering from his surprise, asked with curiosity, "Why the Water-Fire Pearl?"


    "Because it''s the most valuable," Li Ziye replied straightforwardly. "Your Majesty knows, the Li Family is a family of merchants. I may not understand much else, but I do know what''s valuable."


    "Vulgar, unbearably vulgar, haha!" laughed Minister Lv Siqing. "Young Master Li, you are the most vulgar person I have ever met!"


    "Esteemed Minister, I am indeed just a commoner," Li Ziye replied with a bow and a smile.


    Hearing this, the Emperor smiled gently. He had been hesitating over what reward to give to this scion of the Li Family, for the young man''s contribution was not insignificant.


    A mere reward of gold and silver would surely be criticized by the world as petty and unappreciative of true talent.


    Granting an official title would give the Li Family the opportunity to leap from a merchant family to a noble lineage, which was the last thing he wanted to see.


    Now that the young master of the Li Family had taken the initiative to ask for the Water-Fire Pearl as a reward, it had indeed alleviated a major concern in his heart.


    "Granted!"


    With no hesitation, the Emperor decreed, "Furthermore, as the direct descendant of the Li Family has made a significant contribution to the country, and his talent and character can be regarded as a model for the citizens of Great Shang, I bestow upon him the title of National Scholar."


    At this declaration, all the ministers were taken aback.


    National Scholar!


    This was no small reward. Although it carried no rank or real power, it was the dream of many scholars to strive for in their lifetime.


    Although the young man had made a significant contribution, his age was still quite young.


    To be granted the title of National Scholar seemed somewhat abrupt.


    Could it be that the Emperor wanted to take this opportunity to make a statement to all the talented individuals in the world, that as long as one is willing to serve the court and possesses outstanding abilities, the court will employ and reward them without reservation?


    "National Scholar?"


    Below the stone steps, Li Ziye was not concerned with what the Emperor and the ministers thought. Instead, he covertly made eye contact with Little Red Riding Hood, inquiring, "Is it valuable?"


    Not valuable!


    Bai Wangyu decisively returned a look, meaning that this title was as common as dirt in the Imperial Academy.

 Chapter 56 – San Zang

    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, the ministers saw that Li Ziye, who was not yet twenty, had been appointed as a national scholar, and his brilliance was unmatched.


    However, after Li Ziye understood what this title of national scholar really meant, he lost interest in it.


    In simple terms, it was just an official certificate issued by the country, which sounded good and looked good, but was useless.


    It was like saying that he was handsome. If the country didn''t issue him a certificate, would he not be handsome?


    Of course not!


    His handsomeness was unquestionable, naturally existing and passed down through the ages!


    Unlike some people who liked to wear white robes, carry ancient swords, and show off all day, what was the use?


    Lost in thought, Li Ziye glanced at the person in white robes behind him. Yes, he was talking about you!


    Bai Wangyu noticed the look from the former, and after knowing him for so long, she could tell that he was speaking ill of him again.


    It seemed that the next time someone bothered this guy, he would have to seriously consider whether to take action.


    As the matter at the divine temple was concluded and Li Ziye was appointed, in front of the Xuanwu Gate, Qin E''nuo looked at the young man in the Hall of Heavenly Worship in the distance, and a hint of relief appeared in her beautiful eyes. Perhaps, not long from now, he would truly be able to stand on his own.


    "Sword Enthusiast, I leave the rest to you."


    After speaking, Qin E''nuo turned and walked towards the palace.


    "Truly a woman as free as the wind."


    Slovenly Zhang sighed at the sight. As for him, he had a naturally busy life and still had to help people teach their disciples.


    In front of the Hall of Heavenly Worship, Li Ziye thanked the Emperor Shang for his reward and then turned to look at the Xuanwu Gate, his expression freezing.


    Where was his fairy master?


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu followed his gaze and then sighed lightly in his heart.


    The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal must have had some agreement with the Confucian Scholar, otherwise, she wouldn''t have come and gone in such a hurry.


    Thinking back now, the Confucian Scholar''s gift of the thousand-year Fo-Ti Root from the Confucian School to Brother Li was not just because of admiration.


    Outside the imperial palace, Qin E''nuo, in a long skirt, stopped and waved her slender hand, and the Frost Sword nailed to the palace wall flew into her hand.


    Young Ziye, don''t disappoint your master!


    Qin E''nuo gripped the sword, turned and took a final look at the palace, then walked away.


    Imperial Academy, East Courtyard.


    Qin E''nuo walked over with her sword and bowed respectfully to the old man in the small courtyard.


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, with a sword that can break the heavens, there are few in the world who can match your swordsmanship."


    In the courtyard, Kong Qiu said as he watered the green vegetables, "But, as you are now, you still can''t compare to the scholar of the Hall of Divine Prophecy. Do you know why?"


    "I don''t know?" Qin E''nuo shook her head.


    "Because of his belief."


    Kong Qiu said calmly, "Although I think he''s a madman, he firmly believes in his own path, so he has gone farther than most people in the world."


    Qin E''nuo listened to the Confucian Scholar''s words and a pensive look appeared in her eyes.


    "In this world, the great cultivators who can open five divine hidden techniques are all firm in their nature, single-minded in proving their own path. However, the scholar of the Hall of Divine Prophecy is more foolish than anyone else."


    Kong Qiu scooped up another ladle of water and poured it into the garden, saying, "From a scholar with no strength to the present master of the Hall of Divine Prophecy who is renowned throughout the world, it''s because he has an obsession in his heart."


    Outside the courtyard, Qin E''nuo listened to the guidance of the Confucian Scholar, and her thoughts became more and more intense.


    "For this year, stay at the Imperial Academy and teach those students."


    Kong Qiu straightened his somewhat stooped body and said, "Perhaps, with a different method of cultivation, you will be able to see where your future path lies."


    "Thank you for the reminder, I know what to do now."


    Qin E''nuo bowed respectfully once again.


    Outside the Great Shang Imperial Palace, after Li Ziye was appointed, he left the palace with Little Red Riding Hood, holding a box in his hand, and couldn''t stop smiling.


    He had obtained the Water and Fire Pearl!


    Hong Zhu and Slovenly Zhang followed behind, keeping their distance, unwilling to be tainted by Li Ziye''s foolishness.


    Only Bai Wangyu still stayed by Li Ziye''s side, with a smile on her face, never leaving.


    "Old Bai, do you really not know what the Extreme Night Cold Dew is?"


    Li Ziye asked with a silly smile as he walked.


    According to the art of craftsmanship, the Extreme Night Cold Dew was the coldest thing in the world, opposite in nature to the celestial iron essence that had been nurturing the fire for thousands of years.


    Now that he had this celestial iron essence and the Water and Fire Pearl to balance yin and yang, as long as he could find the Extreme Night Cold Dew, he would be able to forge a sword of his own.


    However, what kind of thing the Extreme Night Cold Dew was, not even the well-informed Old Zhang had heard of it.


    "Brother Li, you''ve asked me at least ten times, and I really don''t know."


    Bai Wangyu shook her head and said, "Perhaps the Confucian Scholar knows what it is. In the future, if you have the chance to see the Confucian Scholar, you can ask him."


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye put away the Water and Fire Pearl and said, "Old Bai, do you think that if I successfully forge a sword and combine it with the Flying Immortal Technique, will I have a chance to defeat Huo Lin''er in three years?"


    "It''s hard to say."


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and said, "A sword that suits you can indeed greatly enhance your strength, even achieve a qualitative leap. Of course, the premise is that the sword you forge must be able to match the sword in the hands of the master of the Hall of Divine Prophecy."


    "The master of the Hall of Divine Prophecy is also a swordsman?"Li Ziye asked in surprise, "Every time I hear people mention the Sword Immortal, Old Zhang, and the Fairy Master, I''ve heard their names, but I''ve never heard of this Oracle Temple Master."


    "That Fu Jinglun is different from the Sword Enthusiast and the Plum Blossom Fairy Sword."


    Bai Wangyu spoke with a solemn expression, "Fu Jinglun is a very strange person, rarely using his sword, even reluctant to use it, because he believes that the sword is a weapon of killing karma, and the purpose of the Oracle Temple is to save the world. Therefore, although he has a sword, he almost never uses it."


    "Does this Oracle Temple Master not kill people?" Li Ziye asked, puzzled.


    Bai Wangyu fell silent, and after a moment, he spoke softly, "He does kill, and he has killed more people than anyone else, but he believes that those who die under the Oracle Divine Art will be redeemed."


    "This man is a madman!"


    Li Ziye curled his lips, "In later generations, this would be considered a severe case of schizophrenia, commonly known as, mental illness!"


    "Mm."


    Bai Wangyu nodded and said, "The Confucian Scholar and the Law-Confucian Supreme Master have both made such comments."


    "Is the sword in the hands of this Oracle Temple Master very powerful?" Li Ziye asked curiously.


    "The Oracle Divine Sword, also known as the Sword of Light."


    Bai Wangyu said with a grave voice, "It is a divine sword that has been blessed with the power of light by successive Oracle Temple Masters. To some extent, it has transcended the category of mortal swords and cannot be simply described as ''powerful.''"


    "Wow, that powerful!"


    Li Ziye gasped in amazement and said, "Old Bai, you''re setting a difficult task for me. How am I supposed to forge a sword that surpasses the Oracle Divine Sword?"


    "It''s not easy, but it''s not entirely impossible."


    Bai Wangyu suppressed his thoughts and smiled again, "At least, there are three divine artifacts in the human world that can match the sword in Fu Jinglun''s hands."


    "Which three?" Li Ziye asked with curiosity.


    "The Imperial Academy, the Confucian Scholar''s Heavenly Book, the Buddhist Sect, the Western Buddha''s Green Lantern, and one more whose whereabouts I''m not very clear about," Bai Wangyu replied.


    "A long and arduous journey indeed!"


    Li Ziye showed a contemplative expression and patted the shoulder of the little red-hooded figure in front of him, "Old Bai, just wait. When I forge the number one sword in the world, I''ll lend it to you to use."


    "Then I''ll thank Brother Li in advance!" Bai Wangyu responded with a smile.


    Behind them, Hong Zhu watched the two men chatting and laughing ahead and asked, "Old Zhang, what are those two talking about?"


    "They''re daydreaming," Slovenly Zhang grinned and laughed.


    This great disciple of the Confucian School had only been in Li Garden for a few days and had already learned to spout nonsense like Li Ziye.


    If it were so easy to forge a sword that could rival the Oracle Divine Sword, he wouldn''t have been defeated so miserably in that battle years ago.


    As the four of them paired off and hurried towards Li Garden, in the southwest of the Great Shang, within a picturesque treasure land.


    An ancient temple stood between the mountains, where an old monk chanted scriptures, accompanied by an ever-burning green lantern in front of him.


    Outside the temple, a young novice monk in a light yellow kasaya was also practicing, sitting cross-legged among the mountains, his breath as calm as water.


    The novice monk''s face was very fair, and although he was seventeen or eighteen years old, he still looked as tender and delicate as a child, with a touch of vermilion Buddha seal on his forehead, enchanting and captivating.


    "San Zang, there''s a demon causing trouble at the foot of the mountain. Go and take care of it."


    At that moment, the old monk in the temple spoke calmly.


    "Yes, Master."


    Outside, amidst the mountains and waters, San Zang opened his eyes, his fair face showing a gentle smile. He picked up the purple-gold bowl beside him and walked down the mountain.


    The mountain path was rugged, but San Zang walked as if on flat ground, unaffected by any obstacles.


    "Kill her! Kill this demoness!"


    At the foot of the mountain, angry shouts rose, and axes and sharp arrows flew, bringing out a waterfall of dazzling crimson.


    Half a day later, at the foot of the mountain, a young girl in a green dress lay in a pool of blood.


    The girl was extremely beautiful, endowed with the essence of heaven and earth, captivating at first sight.


    On the mountain path, San Zang came down and, upon seeing the girl who had fainted at the foot of the mountain, showed a look of compassion and stepped forward to help her up.


    "Miss, wake up," San Zang called softly. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


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    The girl in green seemed to hear the novice monk''s call and slowly opened her eyes, her voice weak, "Save... save me."


    After speaking, the girl fainted again.


    San Zang frowned, hesitated for a moment, then picked up the girl and headed towards the nearest village at the foot of the mountain.


    In the village, something had happened, and cries were everywhere. It seemed that people were saying that a demon had appeared at the foot of the mountain and had eaten several villagers.


    "Amitabha!"


    Seeing this, San Zang''s expression became even more compassionate, and he carried the girl to an abandoned broken house to rest first.


    After walking for a day, San Zang felt hungry and took his purple-gold bowl to the village to beg for alms.


    In the village, San Zang saw a woman with a child and stepped forward to bow respectfully, "Benefactor, this humble monk San Zang is from the mountain temple. May I ask for some vegetarian food from you?"


    The woman looked at the fair novice monk in front of her, wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes, and said, "Master, please follow me."


    Meanwhile, in the unnoticed broken house behind, the girl in green trembled, and a green light rose around her. The wounds on her body began to heal on their own...

 Chapter 57 – Girl, princess, enchantress

    "Hurry up, something has happened to the Princess, and when the Prince returns, all of us will lose our heads!"


    In the southwest of Great Shang, a team of iron riders galloped through, with the leading general looking solemn as they hurried towards the border.


    Princess Qing Qing has gone missing, and the entire southwestern royal mansion is in chaos.


    To make matters worse, the southwestern king was recently summoned back to the capital city by the court, and the crown prince went with him. Now, the entire southwestern royal mansion is leaderless, with only the queen mother holding down the fort. Faced with this sudden situation, even she has lost her usual composure.


    It was rumored among many in the southwestern royal mansion that the reason the southwestern king was summoned to the capital was because the royal family intended to form a marriage alliance with the royal mansion, to solidify the relationship between the royal family and the southwestern royal mansion.


    Outside the southwestern border of Great Shang, there is a Buddhist temple, almost equivalent to a small country.


    Just like the Tianyu Hall in the Western Regions, the Buddhist Sect has gathered too many believers through faith. The statue of the Buddha inside the temple is one of the most powerful people in the world, regarded as a living Buddha by the believers.


    Under the influence of the Buddha, countless temples have sprung up outside the Buddhist temple, with millions of Buddhist followers, forming their own Buddhist kingdom.


    This poses a great threat to Great Shang.


    The existence of the southwestern royal mansion is what keeps this Buddhist kingdom in check.


    This is precisely why the court attaches such importance to the southwestern royal mansion.


    It is said that the prince who is to form a marriage alliance with the southwestern royal mansion is highly likely to be crowned as the crown prince.


    On the southwestern border, the Iron Cavalry of the Martial King raced past, kicking up dust, indicating that the disappearance of Princess Qing Qing has made these battle-hardened soldiers somewhat panicked.


    After all, the safety of Princess Qing Qing is no longer just a matter for the southwestern royal mansion.


    In the capital city of Great Shang, in the western wing of Li Garden, Li Ziye was practicing swordsmanship. Before long, a servant boy hurried over and respectfully said, "Young Master, it has been investigated."


    Within the Red Line Formation, Li Ziye stepped out and asked, "What is his identity?"


    That day, when he rushed back from the birthday banquet of the Yin family''s old lady, he was startled by a team of iron riders. There are not many people in the capital city of Great Shang who can mobilize cavalry, so he was very curious to know who the young general in charge was.


    "The Crown Prince of the southwestern kingdom, Zhu Qingge!" the servant boy replied.


    "The Crown Prince of the southwestern kingdom?"


    Li Ziye''s expression changed when he heard this, and he asked, "Wasn''t he stationed at the southwestern border with the southwestern king? How did he return to the capital?"


    Like the Martial King and the Rakshasa woman, the southwestern king is one of the ten Martial Kings. However, the southwestern king is usually not in the capital city, but stationed at the border to deter the expanding Buddhist kingdom.


    "Reporting to Young Master, the southwestern king has also returned to the capital," the servant boy respectfully replied. "According to the scouts, the reason for the southwestern king''s return to the capital this time is to discuss the marriage alliance between Princess Qing Qing and the royal family."


    "The marriage alliance between the royal family and the southwestern royal mansion?"


    Li Ziye was surprised and continued to ask, "Which prince has been inquired about?"


    The influence of the southwestern royal mansion is not something that an ordinary Martial King can compare to. If any prince can form a marriage alliance with the southwestern royal mansion, he may be directly crowned as the crown prince.


    "Not yet," the servant boy shook his head. "It is said that there are supporters for each of the princes in the court, and for a while, the Emperor is having a hard time making a decision."


    "Understood, you may go now. Report any news immediately!" Li Ziye suppressed the waves in his heart, waved his hand, and said.


    "Yes!" The servant boy took his leave and quickly departed.


    "Brother Li is very concerned about this matter?" Bai Wangyu asked curiously from the side.


    "Of course," Li Ziye grinned foolishly and said, "I want to find out the news early, so I can go and curry favor with the prince."


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu wanted to give himself a slap. Why did he have to engage in conversation with this fool?


    "To be honest, Lao Bai, which of the four princes do you think is most likely to marry Princess Qing Qing?" Li Ziye took out a hundred-year-old "radish" from his pocket and nibbled on it, looking very gossipy.


    "I''m not sure," Bai Wangyu shook his head. "The Confucian School rarely concerns itself with court affairs. As for which prince will eventually form a marriage alliance with the southwestern royal mansion, that can only be decided by the Emperor."


    "Boring," Li Ziye took a bite of the radish in his hand and said, "I naturally know that the Emperor will decide on this matter. I''m just curious and want to make a random guess."


    "Don''t criticize court affairs," Bai Wangyu said.


    "I bet a hundred doses of potent medicine on the Third Prince!" Li Ziye gestured with the half "radish" in his hand and urged, "Hurry up, just make a random guess." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment, but still said, "I think it''s the Crown Prince."


    "The Crown Prince?"


    Li Ziye was surprised when he heard this, looked around, and said in a low voice, "It''s not that I disrespect the disabled, but the Crown Prince''s legs are somewhat inconvenient. How could the southwestern king agree to this marriage? Lao Bai, are you deliberately trying to lose to me!"


    "It''s just a hunch," Bai Wangyu said with a faint smile. "Brother Li also said it was just a random guess."


    "No, I want to raise the stakes."Li Ziye immediately changed his tune and said, "Two hundred, two hundred big medicine plants."


    This is like picking up money!


    "Okay."


    Bai Wangyu nodded indifferently and responded.


    "Young Master, Miss Zhangsun is here."


    At this moment, another servant boy hurried over and reported.


    "Zhangsun Nanqiao?"


    Li Ziye immediately perked up and said, "My Medicine King has arrived!"


    After speaking, Li Ziye didn''t even care about the gambling game with Little Red Riding Hood and quickly walked towards the west wing.


    In the main hall, Zhangsun Nanqiao was sitting and drinking tea. On the table, there was a wooden box emitting a faint medicinal fragrance.


    As soon as Li Ziye entered the hall, his gaze couldn''t move away, showing more excitement than when he saw a beautiful girl.


    Finally, it''s finally in my hands!


    Tears welled up in Li Ziye''s eyes, it was not easy at all.


    "Young Master Li, is it because you missed me so much after just a few days of not seeing me?" Zhangsun Nanqiao looked at the young man in the hall with intense eyes, smiling ambiguously.


    Li Ziye came to his senses and looked at the woman in front of him, grinning, "Not seeing you for a day is like three autumns, and when I heard that Nanqiao sister was coming, I was indeed a bit excited."


    "I think it''s not me you want to see, but this, right?" Zhangsun Nanqiao picked up the wooden box on the table and shook it, smiling slyly, "Young Master Li, I''ve run my legs off just to get this Medicine King. I''ve made countless trips to the Queen Mother just to get this. How could I not?"


    "How could it be!" Li Ziye laughed, "Nanqiao sister and the Queen Mother are sisters, and whatever Nanqiao sister wants, the Queen Mother will not refuse."


    "Hmm." Zhangsun Nanqiao smiled lightly and said, "You really calculated my sister into it. Li Ziye, you are really bold, daring to calculate even the current Queen Mother."


    "Nanqiao sister, please don''t talk nonsense." Li Ziye said firmly, "From start to finish, I have only been doing business with Nanqiao sister, and there is no need to involve the Queen Mother."


    "Alright, I can''t argue with you." Zhangsun Nanqiao gave Li Ziye a blank look, then threw the wooden box in her hand over and said, "The goods have been delivered to you. When will our cooperation begin?"


    "Hasn''t it already begun?" Li Ziye took the wooden box and casually placed it on the table, smiling, "I trust my sister completely. I have long been preparing to cooperate with the Zhangsun Family."


    "Young man, why not just hand over the other businesses of the Li Family to my Zhangsun Family as well?" Zhangsun Nanqiao took the opportunity to say, "The current Merchant Alliance has just suffered a loss of goods, and the Yins have caused trouble. It''s a mess right now, and there is constant friction between the two families. If the Li Family hands over the business to them, it will inevitably cause a lot of trouble."


    "What Nanqiao sister said makes sense, but..." Li Ziye said, then changed the subject and grinned, "After all, I have some friendship with the Third Royal Highness. The Third Royal Highness has repeatedly recommended these two families to me, and I can''t really reject the face of the Third Royal Highness."


    "The Third Royal Highness? Huh." Zhangsun Nanqiao smiled faintly at the mention and picked up the tea on the table, took a sip, and said, "Doesn''t Young Master Li know that the Southwest King''s visit to the capital to discuss a marriage alliance with the royal family has already been decided?"


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    "I just heard about it. Has the result been announced?" Li Ziye asked.


    "The result has not been announced yet, but it''s almost certain." Zhangsun Nanqiao put down the teacup and said, "The Queen Mother intends for my nephew Mu Bai to marry the Southwest King''s daughter, Princess Qingqing, and the Emperor has not refused."


    "The Fourth Prince?" Li Ziye was almost choked by the tea he was about to drink. How could it be the Fourth Prince?


    He didn''t even have a bet with the Fourth Prince.


    How would that be counted, as a draw?


    The main thing is that this Fourth Prince is just a martial fanatic. It is said that the Merchant Emperor and the Queen have wanted to arrange a marriage for him more than once, but they have been refused.


    So, he just ignored this Fourth Prince.


    "Young Master Li, you are a smart person. You should understand what it means if my nephew Mu Bai marries into the Southwest King''s family." Zhangsun Nanqiao smiled and said, "If the Li Family wants to further expand its business, it must have the support of the court. Young Master Li should know the difference between giving timely help and adding to the beauty. "


    Li Ziye listened to the woman''s words and showed a pensive look in his eyes.


    It''s really a difficult decision!


    Right now, he still finds it difficult to judge whether Zhangsun Nanqiao''s words are true or false. Could it be true that the person who is going to marry the Princess Qingqing is really the Fourth Prince?


    Just as Li Ziye was undecided about the future of the Li Family, the Southwest King''s elite iron cavalry rushed out of the border, frantically searching for the whereabouts of Princess Qingqing.


    And in a small mountain village far from the border, under the green lamp of the Baoshan Temple, the Buddhist disciple San Zang descended the mountain to subdue demons and saved a girl in green clothes, entering the village to beg for alms.


    In a broken house, San Zang held a purple-golden alms bowl, and in the bowl, there was vegetarian food.


    The girl woke up, her beautiful big eyes filled with nervousness.


    "Don''t be afraid, Miss."San Zang''s fair face revealed a gentle smile as he said, "You''ve been unconscious for quite some time; you must be hungry. I''ve gathered some vegetarian meals for you. Please eat something first."


    Upon hearing this, the girl looked at the purple-gold bowl in the hands of the young monk before her and instinctively stepped back, panic flashing in her eyes.


    "Over there, that demoness is in that dilapidated house, I saw with my own eyes a monk carrying her inside!"


    Just then, a noisy commotion arose from outside. The next moment, a man, followed by a group of villagers, kicked open the door of the wooden hut, pointed at the girl inside, and angrily exclaimed, "Look everyone, the demoness is right here!"

 Chapter 58 – I... I havent eaten anyone

    "She is the demoness!"


    The dilapidated house was invaded by a man leading a group of villagers, pointing at the girl in the corner and shouting angrily.


    "Yes, I have also seen the face of that demoness, it''s her!"


    From the back, another villager recognized the girl''s appearance, his expression full of anger, "She''s the man-eating demon!"


    "Monk, I kindly gave you food, and you actually saved this demoness!"


    The woman who had given San Zang a meal before saw the girl in the broken house and burst into tears, saying, "My man was killed by this demoness!" S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Kill this demoness!" the leader of the men shouted angrily.


    "Kill this demoness!"


    From the back, the villagers also gathered their courage and rushed forward with angry expressions.


    "I haven''t eaten anyone."


    In the corner of the broken house, the girl shrank back, retreating with a look of panic and fear on her face.


    "Namo Amitabha!"


    San Zang saw the frightened look of the girl and couldn''t bear it. A golden light appeared, pushing back the villagers who had rushed forward. Then, he clasped his hands together and said respectfully, "Have you mistaken, dear donors? This female donor was saved by me at the foot of the mountain. She should not be the man-eating demon you speak of."


    "We absolutely have not mistaken, it''s her!"


    The man looked at the monk in front of him with horror and said, "I saw her harming people with my own eyes, there''s no way I could be mistaken!"


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    "Yes, I saw it too!"


    Another villager stepped forward, boldly speaking, "Little monk, don''t meddle in this. This demoness has harmed so many people, she should pay with her life!"


    "Pay with her life!"


    The angry villagers shouted again.


    Inside the broken house, San Zang listened to the angry shouts of the villagers and looked back at the terrified girl behind him, furrowing his brow.


    This girl, no matter how you look at her, doesn''t seem like a demon.


    And demons who have killed people would have a bloody aura, but this girl clearly doesn''t have that.


    But, the villagers are so certain. Who should he believe?


    "I haven''t eaten anyone."


    In the corner, the girl shrank back, murmuring continuously, trembling all over, looking extremely frightened.


    San Zang sighed softly at the sight, then turned to the angry villagers and said, "Namo Amitabha, dear donors, how about this? I have learned some Buddhist techniques for subduing demons. I can perform the ritual in front of you all. If this female donor is truly a demon, I will no longer interfere. But if she is not, I ask the donors to spare her life!"


    "No, who knows if you will favor this demoness!" the man said angrily.


    From the back, the villagers were also unwilling. They could all see that the little monk was intentionally favoring the demoness.


    "Namo Amitabha!"


    San Zang bowed and said, "As a monk, I do not speak falsehoods. I am a disciple of the Qingdeng Temple on the mountain. Even if you don''t believe me, you should trust the Qingdeng Temple."


    "The monk from Qingdeng Temple?"


    Upon hearing this, the people looked at each other and nodded. They could trust a disciple of the Qingdeng Temple.


    "Very well, little master, perform the ritual. We believe that a disciple of the Qingdeng Temple would not deceive us!"


    The villagers spoke, but they still couldn''t help but warn, "However, you must not favor this demoness."


    "Dear donors, please rest assured."


    San Zang nodded, then turned to look at the girl cowering in the corner, saying, "Female donor, there may be some pain to come. In order to clear your name, please bear with it."


    After speaking, San Zang clasped his hands together and recited a Buddhist chant, and the 108 prayer beads in his hand suddenly emitted a dazzling golden light.


    In the corner, the girl saw the golden light on the prayer beads and her exquisitely beautiful face immediately showed a look of fear.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Just as San Zang began the ritual, the sound of galloping hooves echoed through the village, shocking everyone present.


    Inside the broken house, San Zang felt the commotion outside, opened his eyes, and looked surprised.


    The Iron Cavalry of Great Shang!


    Why would they appear here?


    "Bang!"


    The next moment, the door of the broken house was kicked open, and several fully armored soldiers rushed in. The leading general saw the girl in the broken house and his face lit up with surprise. He stepped forward and saluted, saying, "Greetings, Princess, we are late. I hope the Princess can forgive us!"


    As soon as he spoke, everyone present was shocked!


    Princess, how could this demoness be a princess?


    In the corner, the girl saw the general who had broken in and was so frightened that she hurriedly retreated, looking even more terrified.


    "Princess Qing Qing!"


    The general, puzzled, asked, "Don''t you recognize me?"


    The girl shrank back, not saying a word, her beautiful little face full of fear and panic, looking pitiful.


    The general''s expression slightly changed, and it was only then that he noticed the bloodstains on the princess. His face showed anger as he asked, "Princess, are you injured? Who hurt you?"


    After speaking, the general turned to look at the villagers behind him, his eyes flashing with killing intent as he said, "Was it them?"


    Inside the broken house, the villagers saw the killing intent on the general''s face and all showed fear in their expressions, quickly stepping back, wanting to leave.


    "Capture them all!"


    The general immediately understood what was happening and said angrily, "Don''t let a single one escape!"


    "Yes!"


    Behind him, several soldiers immediately stepped forward to arrest the people.


    "No."


    In the corner, the girl looked anxious, reached out and grabbed the general''s arm, then quickly let go as if she had been shocked, and shrank back, nervously shaking her head and saying, "No... don''t."


    "You all, stop."


    The general heard this and immediately stopped the soldiers behind him. He looked at the girl in front of him and asked, "Princess, are you saying that I shouldn''t arrest them?"


    "Yes... yes."


    The girl nodded nervously.


    The general frowned, but also didn''t want to go against the princess''s wishes. He turned to look at the terrified villagers behind him and said coldly, "The Princess is kind-hearted and is willing to spare you troublemakers. You''d better leave now!"


    "Thank you, General. Thank you, Princess."The villagers hurriedly paid their respects and then hastily left the dilapidated hut.


    "Princess, let''s return to the mansion. The queen has been worried sick these past few days!" The general stood up and spoke.


    The girl shrank back, lowered her head, and did not respond.


    Seeing this, the general hesitated for a moment before saying, "Princess, forgive me!"


    After speaking, the general stepped forward, picked up the girl, and prepared to leave.


    "Ah!"


    At this moment, as if triggered by something, the girl screamed in terror, struggling desperately and breaking free from the general''s arms in just a few moves. She ran behind San Zang and clung to his clothes in fear.


    The general was taken aback, his gaze fixed on the princess hiding behind the young monk, his expression full of confusion. What had happened to the princess?


    She seemed like a completely different person!


    After a moment, the general collected himself, suppressed the confusion in his heart, and looked at the young monk before him, asking, "How may I address this young master?"


    "My dharma name is San Zang," San Zang replied with his hands clasped together.


    "San Zang?"


    The general pondered upon hearing the name, as if he had heard it somewhere before.


    "I... I haven''t eaten anyone."


    Behind San Zang, the girl continued to mutter tremblingly.


    "Little monk, believe in the princess."


    San Zang turned around, looked at the girl behind him, and spoke with a gentle expression.


    Seeing this, the general''s expression became solemn. After a moment of thought, he said, "Young master, it seems that the princess is only willing to trust you for now. Could you please accompany us back to the Southwest Mansion of Great Shang? Once the princess''s emotions have stabilized, whether you choose to stay or leave, our Southwest Mansion will not interfere."


    After speaking, the general bowed with a fist in hand to show his sincerity.


    San Zang thought for a moment, then nodded lightly and said, "Very well, I shall accompany the general on this trip."


    The princess''s current emotional state was indeed too unstable. The task of subduing demons given to him by his master would have to be postponed for now.


    "Thank you, young master."


    The general thanked him, then turned to the soldiers behind him and ordered, "Provide a horse for the young master. We shall return to the mansion immediately."


    "Yes!"


    The soldiers took the order and immediately turned to leave the hut.


    Half an hour later, outside the village, the sound of galloping hooves filled the air as the general and his men left the village, heading towards the Southwest Mansion of Great Shang to the east.


    "Was that person really the princess of Great Shang?"


    In the village, someone spoke up, still shaken by the event.


    The general''s presence had been truly intimidating.


    "I don''t know."


    Another villager shook his head, his gaze following the disappearing cavalry into the distance, his expression somewhat bewildered. "I clearly saw that woman glowing green all over, her hands covered in blood, and several villagers lying dead beside her."


    "Could it be that the princess of Great Shang is a demon?"


    The villagers exchanged glances, not even believing their own words.


    But how else could they explain the recent events in the village?


    Meanwhile, at the foot of the mountain, not far from where San Zang had encountered the girl, crows circled overhead. Below, a bloodied girl lay there, her outer garments gone, leaving only her white undergarments.


    Crows flew down from the sky, pecked at the girl''s body, and then flew away startled.


    The girl had a fatal wound on her chest, as if her heart had been pierced by sharp claws, and her heartbeat had long ceased.


    As the sun was about to set, at the foot of the mountain, a monk returning from his travels approached, about to ascend the mountain, but then he saw the girl lying in a pool of blood not far away. His expression hardened, and he quickly stepped forward.


    "The aura of a demon."


    The monk saw the wound on the girl''s chest, his brow furrowed. It was unthinkable that such a cruel demon could exist in the pure land of the Buddhist Sect.


    "Amitabha."


    The monk''s face showed compassion. Even though he did not know her in life, since they had met, he would perform a ritual to liberate her soul, allowing her to rest in peace.


    With this thought, the monk wiped the blood from the girl''s face, and gradually, her features became clear.


    The girl had a very delicate face, and even in death, she exuded a stunning beauty.


    "Is this?"


    Upon seeing the girl''s face clearly, the monk was shocked.


    The Qing Qing Princess of the Southwest Mansion of Great Shang?


    He had just returned from there, and in the city on the southwestern border, posters of the princess were plastered everywhere.


    This place was not close to the Southwest Mansion of Great Shang, so why was the Qing Qing Princess here?


    What kind of demon could abduct someone from the heavily guarded Southwest Mansion?


    "Amitabha."


    The monk clasped his hands together and chanted a Buddhist mantra. Since fate had brought them together and he had recognized the princess''s identity, he would see to it that she was returned.

 Chapter 59 – The merchant emperor pays homage to the Confucian Scholar

    "Ah!"


    Li Yuan let out a miserable cry, so frightening that it made people cry and feel sad.


    In the pharmacy, Slovenly Zhang wiped the sweat from his forehead and walked away wearily.


    In the back of the pharmacy, Li Ziye''s arms and knees were trembling, as if he had done something.


    After extreme pain, boundless spiritual energy quickly surged into the pharmacy from the heavens and the earth, majestic and astonishing.


    "No breakthrough, no establishment. No enlightenment, no clarity. Breakthrough comes after destruction, and that''s when the great path is realized."


    In the west wing, Bai Wangyu felt the spiritual energy fluctuations in the inner courtyard, and a strange light flashed in his eyes.


    Late stage of the First Realm!


    Brother Li''s cultivation speed was faster than they had expected.


    Could it be that this is the correct way of cultivation?


    Breakthrough comes after destruction, and only through extreme pain can transformation be achieved.


    "Wangyu."


    At this moment, the familiar old voice echoed in the world.


    "Confucian Scholar."


    Bai Wangyu came to his senses and respectfully saluted.


    "Do you understand?"


    The old voice asked.


    "I understand."


    Bai Wangyu respectfully replied.


    "Qing Qing is dead, the demon eats people, and the extreme night is coming!"


    The old voice echoed in the world, and the truth it spoke was shocking.


    Listening to the Confucian Scholar''s words, Bai Wangyu looked puzzled and respectfully asked, "Is there really a demon in this world?"


    "When the human heart is possessed by demons, demons will appear in the world."


    The old voice echoed in the world, saying, "As the cold winter approaches, all living beings will undergo calamity, and the Confucian School will realize the great path."


    "Disciple does not understand," Bai Wangyu said in a firm voice.


    "In the future, you will understand. San Zang of the Buddhist Sect has already begun his calamity, and Yan Xiaoyu of the Divine Temple also has his own inner demon. Wangyu, your calamity will come soon."


    In the sky above the west wing, the old voice sighed lightly and said, "If you can overcome this calamity, you will become the next leader of the Confucian School in the world. If not, you will have a tragic fate, and your heroism will turn to dust!"


    "Thank you for your guidance, Confucian Scholar."


    Bai Wangyu saluted again and said, "I will definitely not let the Confucian Scholar down."


    "The key to your calamity lies with the Li Family, and also..."


    At this point, the old voice sighed again in the sky and said, "Do not die!"


    "Yes!"


    Bai Wangyu bowed and replied.


    "Old Bai!"


    After the Confucian Scholar''s words fell, Li Ziye staggered over from outside the west wing, his steps unsteady and floating.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu suppressed the waves in his heart, and a peaceful smile reappeared on his face. He stepped forward to support Li Ziye and said, "Congratulations, Brother Li, on breaking through again."


    "It hurts so much, I want to cry."


    As Li Ziye walked forward, he grimaced and said, "Others who practice martial arts can make rapid progress and rise to the top, but why do I have to suffer like this?"


    "The greater the suffering, the greater the person."


    Bai Wangyu comforted him, "Brother Li, think about it. With your talent, you might not have had the chance to cultivate at all. But now, you have broken through repeatedly, and your cultivation speed is not as slow as you think. Isn''t it worth it to endure a little hardship?"


    "What you said seems to make some sense."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "It seems that every time I open up a meridian, I can break through immediately. Hey, Old Bai, do you think that if I open all eight meridians, my cultivation will surpass yours in an instant?"


    "It''s possible."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and said, "Based on the situation of Brother Li opening up the meridians twice, breaking through after destruction can indeed stimulate the body''s potential. If Brother Li works harder, he might really surpass us."


    "Are you not just trying to comfort me?"


    Li Ziye asked suspiciously.


    "No, people of the Confucian School never tell lies."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and replied. Maybe, it''s possible, who knows.


    However, the further one goes on the path of cultivation, the more difficult it becomes. It might not be so easy to rely on reshaping the meridians to stimulate the body''s potential and break through one after another, just like in the First Realm.


    Li Ziye, who believed what even a fool wouldn''t believe, patted the shoulder of the little red-capped figure in front of him and grinned, "Don''t worry, Old Bai. When my cultivation surpasses yours, I will definitely protect you!"


    "Thank you very much, Brother Li." Bai Wangyu smiled.


    In Li Yuan, the southwestern border of the royal mansion was also bustling with excitement because of the return of Princess Qing Qing.


    Only in the Imperial Academy to the east, the Confucian Scholar in the small courtyard was looking at the sky with a solemn expression on his old face.


    At this moment, it came earlier than he had imagined.


    Qing Qing is dead, the demon eats people, and the extreme night is coming!


    The instructions from the ancient book a hundred years ago had now come true. Did this mean that the time for all living beings to undergo calamity had also arrived?


    In the extreme night of the cold winter, when all things do not grow, can the countless creatures in the human world survive this long winter?


    "Your Majesty, since you are here, why not come in for a chat."


    After a while, the Confucian Scholar came to his senses and looked outside the courtyard, speaking.


    Outside the courtyard, the Great Shang Emperor had arrived at an unknown time. After glancing at the two royal family attendants behind him, he said indifferently, "You two wait here."


    After that, the Great Shang Emperor stepped into the small courtyard.


    Inside the house, the tea had already been boiled, and the Confucian Scholar and the Great Shang Emperor sat facing each other, with the mist covering their line of sight.


    "What does Your Majesty want to know?" the Confucian Scholar said calmly.


    "The heir of the Li Family."


    The Great Shang Emperor slowly uttered these four words, then asked, "Could it be a hidden danger for the Great Shang?"


    "No."


    The Confucian Scholar shook his head and replied.


    Upon hearing this, the Great Shang Emperor breathed a sigh of relief and continued, "Who do you think is the most suitable among my four princes to form an alliance with the royal mansion in the southwest?"


    "The eldest prince." The Confucian Scholar answered.


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    "Oh?"


    The Great Shang Emperor''s eyes flashed with surprise. What the Confucian Scholar said was actually the same as what he had in mind.


    It seemed that this Confucian Scholar from the Imperial Academy had already guessed what he was thinking.


    The leader of the Confucian School was indeed a formidable person.


    "There is one thing that I have been unclear about. Three years ago, I wanted to balance the excessive expansion of the Li Family, but it was the Confucian Scholar who stopped me. This time, when I forced the people of the Li Family to come to the capital, why did the Confucian Scholar not stop me?" The Great Shang Emperor looked at the old man in front of him and asked."Three years ago, the time was not right."


    The Confucian Scholar said calmly, "Three years later, the time has come."


    "What time is the Confucian Scholar referring to?"


    The Emperor of Great Shang narrowed his eyes slightly and asked, "The legitimate son of the Li Family?"


    "Yes."


    The Confucian Scholar did not deny it and nodded in response.


    "The Confucian Scholar really values this legitimate son of the Li Family."


    The Emperor of Great Shang spoke indifferently, "My sons, each one of them is a dragon among men. Even if the Confucian Scholar does not trust me, what about the students of the Imperial Academy? Take Bai Wangyu, for example, he is also an Unparalleled Arrogance among the younger generation. Why would the Confucian Scholar not choose them but instead opt for a nameless youngster born to a merchant family?"


    "Winter is coming, and the world needs change."


    The Confucian Scholar said calmly, "Whether it''s Your Majesty''s Princes or the students of the Imperial Academy, they are all heavily influenced by the rituals and teachings of this world and can no longer break free."


    "Is it not good to abide by the rules?" The Emperor of Great Shang asked with a firm voice.


    "It''s not that it''s not good, but that this era is not suitable."


    The Confucian Scholar picked up the teapot from the stove, poured two cups of tea, and pushed one of them forward, saying, "Has Your Majesty heard of the extreme winter nights when monsters eat humans?"


    "I have seen it once in ancient texts."


    The Emperor of Great Shang picked up the tea from the table and said, "But that is just a legend, after all. In this world, there are no such things as monsters; they are merely rumors fabricated by the ignorant masses."


    "What if I, an old man, say there are?" The Confucian Scholar said calmly.


    Upon hearing this, the Emperor''s hand holding the tea trembled, and his eyes narrowed again as he said, "Confucian Scholar, this is no joking matter."


    "I, an old man, never joke."


    The Confucian Scholar looked at the steaming tea in front of him and said, "To my knowledge, the nights in the far north are getting longer."


    "The far north has always had phenomena of polar nights; this is not strange," said the Emperor of Great Shang.


    "The far north has polar nights, but not eternal nights. Previously, there was always a time when the sun would rise. However, this year, the sun has never risen in the far north," the Confucian Scholar said.


    "So what if it hasn''t? The far north is uninhabited anyway. Even if the sun never rises, it won''t have any impact," the Emperor of Great Shang said unconcernedly.


    "If it were only the far north, it would indeed be of no concern."


    The Confucian Scholar picked up the tea from the table, took a sip, and said, "But this long polar night is moving southward. The Desert North has also begun to experience polar nights."


    "Desert North?"


    The Emperor of Great Shang frowned slightly upon hearing this.


    "Your Majesty should know what this means."


    The Confucian Scholar said calmly, "With the polar nights in the Desert North, the grass and water are scarce, and the people of the eight tribes of the Desert North will have to migrate south. If the polar night continues to expand, the eight tribes will keep moving south until their armies reach the Central Plains!"


    "I have ten Martial Kings and a million brave and skilled soldiers; why should I fear the eight tribes of the Desert North?" A flash of killing intent passed through the Emperor''s eyes as he spoke.


    "What if the polar night appears in the Central Plains?"


    The Confucian Scholar said slowly, "The people need to eat. Under the polar night''s extreme winter, nothing grows. Without food, the people will riot. Your Majesty''s soldiers also have parents, wives, and children. Can Your Majesty really make them turn their weapons against their own families?"


    After listening to the old man''s words, the Emperor''s expression grew increasingly grave. After a moment, he spoke, "These are all the Confucian Scholar''s speculations. The Central Plains have never experienced a polar night."


    "Indeed."


    The Confucian Scholar took another sip of his tea and said indifferently, "Before this, monsters had never appeared in the world either. Just because they haven''t appeared before doesn''t mean they won''t in the future." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What exactly are the monsters the Confucian Scholar is talking about?" The Emperor of Great Shang asked in a deep voice.


    "Monsters eat humans, and the polar night descends."


    The Confucian Scholar said slowly, "Perhaps, the monsters are the messengers of the polar night."


    "I do not believe it."


    A cold light flashed in the Emperor''s eyes as he spoke.


    "Soon, Your Majesty will believe it."


    The Confucian Scholar said calmly, "The monsters have already appeared, and moreover, they have left the endless darkness of the far north and come to this bright world."


    "If there really are monsters in the world."


    A surge of killing intent appeared on the Emperor''s face as he said, "My imperial power will exterminate all the monsters!"


    "If Your Majesty has such confidence, there is no need to ask this old man anymore."


    The Confucian Scholar put down his teacup and saw the guest out, saying, "Your Majesty, it is getting late. Please return."


    Upon hearing this, a glint flashed in the Emperor''s eyes, and without lingering, he rose to leave. However, as he was about to step out the door, he stopped and said indifferently:


    "Confucian Scholar, the edge of the Confucian School is too sharp. I will not allow any faith within Great Shang to surpass imperial authority. The scholar from the Heavenly Edict Hall won''t do, the old monk from the Green Lantern Temple won''t do, and the Confucian School won''t do either!"

 Chapter 60 – Marriage grant

    "Young Master, there''s news from the palace. His Majesty wants to arrange a marriage for the Crown Prince and Princess Qing Qing!"


    Li Yuan, outside the west wing, a servant hurriedly approached and said.


    "Bang!"


    As soon as the words fell, Li Ziye, who was still practicing swordsmanship in the Red Line Formation, suddenly lost control of his Genuine Qi and flew out.


    The Red Line broke, and Li Ziye''s body hit the wall and fell straight down.


    "Who?!"


    On the ground, Li Ziye, despite his battered appearance from the impact, jumped up and asked in disbelief, "Who did you say wants to marry Princess Qing Qing?"


    "The Crown Prince."


    The servant replied respectfully.


    Li Ziye rubbed his dusty hair vigorously and lamented, "This shouldn''t be happening!"


    Not far away, Bai Wangyu showed a hint of a smile and said, "Brother Li, thank you for the two hundred potent medicines, but I don''t need them. Can I exchange them for silver?"


    Hearing this, Li Ziye gritted his teeth in anger and forced out two words, "You can!"


    "I can what?"


    At this moment, a beautiful figure walked over from the west wing, looking curiously at the two in the courtyard.


    "Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye saw the newcomer and immediately showed a joyful expression on his face, jogging over and asking, "Are you not busy today?"


    These days, Sister Youwei has been busy with the cooperation between the Li Family and the Zhangsun Family, almost without time to sleep, so he didn''t dare to disturb her.


    "Your wife is really difficult to handle. The Zhangsun Family''s business is under her control, which is why it has developed to the point where it can compete with the Yin Family Money House and the Merchant Alliance in just a few years," Li Youwei sighed.


    "Sister Youwei, Zhangsun Nanqiao is not my wife," Li Ziye explained.


    "It''s only a matter of time."


    Li Youwei smiled and said, "I think the courtesan in the east of the city is not bad. Should I go and propose to her for you? You can take a concubine first, after all, you can''t handle your Fairy Master for the time being."


    "Ah."


    Listening to the endless words of Sister Youwei, Li Ziye couldn''t help but take a deep breath.


    "Love between master and disciple is a taboo."


    At this moment, Bai Wangyu timely reminded, "However, Brother Li, it seems that you have never cared about worldly opinions."


    Li Ziye looked at Little Red Riding Hood and then at Sister Youwei in front of him, feeling for the first time that these two people were really... a perfect match.


    Enough said, talking too much is infuriating!


    "Brother Bai, how long have you been at Li Yuan?" Li Youwei suddenly asked.


    "For over a month."


    Bai Wangyu replied respectfully.


    "Even your meals are provided by Li Yuan?" Li Youwei asked again.


    "Yes," Bai Wangyu replied.


    "And the tea?" Li Youwei continued.


    "Also provided by Li Yuan," Bai Wangyu answered.


    "Have you received any silver?" Li Youwei narrowed her eyes and asked.


    "No."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head, and sweat began to form on his forehead.


    "How long do you plan to stay at Li Yuan?" Li Youwei''s expression changed, and she asked indifferently.


    "Um..."


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and replied with some uncertainty, "I should stay for a few more days."


    On the side, Li Ziye looked at Little Red Riding Hood''s lack of confidence and felt greatly relieved.


    Sister Youwei is really amazing. With just a few words, she made Little Red Riding Hood break out in a cold sweat.


    Admiration, admiration!


    "Younger Brother."


    Li Youwei looked at Li Ziye and smiled, "Remember to record Brother Bai''s expenses at the Confucian School. It should be enough to repay your bet on those two hundred potent medicines."


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye grinned.


    "Let''s go."


    After settling the bet that Little Brother lost, Li Youwei smiled and turned to leave the west wing, continuing to attend to her own affairs.


    In the courtyard, Bai Wangyu saw her leave, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    This eldest daughter of the Li Family is really formidable, not at all as gentle as she appears.


    "Haha!"


    Seeing this, Li Ziye couldn''t help but burst into laughter, feeling great!


    "Brother Bai."


    Bai Wangyu helplessly said, "Sister Youwei is truly extraordinary!"


    "Sister Youwei is the most formidable person in my Li Family!"


    Li Ziye said with a smile, "Among the three siblings in my Li Family, it seems like I''m the legitimate son, but in reality, I don''t dare to provoke anyone. I''ve been afraid of my Second Brother since I was young, and my Second Brother only listens to Sister Youwei. So, in the Li Family, it''s basically Sister Youwei who has the final say."


    "I see," Bai Wangyu sighed.


    However, the relationship between these three siblings is truly admirable.


    Although he has not met the second son of the Li Family, from the tone of Brother Li, he can tell that although he is afraid of his Second Brother, he also respects him very much.


    The wealth of the Li Family is more than just a million, but among the three siblings, there has been no dispute over this wealth. It has to be said that the prosperity of the Li Family is not accidental.


    "By the way, Old Bai, why did you guess that the person who is going to marry Princess Qing Qing is the Crown Prince?" Li Ziye expressed his doubts and asked.


    "Men''s intuition," Bai Wangyu replied.


    "Get lost, what kind of intuition do men have?"


    Li Ziye said irritably, "Speak human language!"


    "Because the Crown Prince is the least likely person."


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and said, "The Crown Prince has a leg injury and is the weakest among the four princes. Even if he marries Princess Qing Qing, he may not necessarily be named the Crown Prince. His influence on the current situation is relatively minimal."


    "Checks and balances."


    Li Ziye understood immediately, his expression slightly condensed, "Are you saying that the Merchant Emperor never intended to establish a Crown Prince?"Bai Wangyu fell silent. After a moment, he spoke softly, "The Confucian Scholar once said that our Emperor has great ambitions, which is why he forbade members of the Confucian School from involving themselves in court affairs."


    "Did the Confucian Scholar really say that about the Emperor of Great Shang?"


    Li Ziye expressed his surprise. In his memory, the current Emperor of Great Shang was a ruler who governed by doing nothing, neither meritorious nor faulty, and did not seem like an emperor with overflowing ambition.


    "Mhm."


    Bai Wangyu nodded, looking at the young man before him with a very serious expression, "The words of the Confucian Scholar are never wrong, so Brother Li should be more cautious."


    Li Ziye listened and his expression became slightly solemn. If what Little Red Riding Hood said was true, he had indeed underestimated the Emperor of Great Shang before.


    In the Great Shang Imperial Palace, within the Shou''an Hall.


    The Emperor of Great Shang, dressed in simple everyday clothes, sat on the couch, his gaze fixed on the chessboard before him. Opposite him was the eldest Prince, Mu Yuan, whose legs were disabled, and who spent most of his time in a wheelchair.


    "Mu Yuan, are you satisfied with the marriage I have arranged for you?" the Emperor asked calmly as he made his move.


    "Satisfied."


    Mu Yuan nodded, looking at the chess game that was very unfavorable for him, and said, "Father, I am going to lose this game of chess again."


    "The game is not over until the last move; the outcome is still unknown."


    The Emperor spoke indifferently, "Once my decree is announced, I will immediately summon Princess Qing Qing to the Capital City, to have you married sooner rather than later, to put your mother''s mind at ease."


    "Thank you, Father."


    Mu Yuan placed a piece on the board and respectfully responded.


    "Mu Qing is coming back!"


    The Emperor picked up another piece and placed it on the board, as a reminder.


    "My eleventh brother?"


    Upon hearing this, Mu Yuan''s hand, which was reaching for the chess box, paused for a moment before returning to normal, "That''s good, I''ve missed him as his elder brother."


    "Back when the King of the Southwest was in the capital, Mu Qing and Princess Qing Qing were very close. Perhaps Mu Qing''s return this time is for this matter," the Emperor said, still looking at the chessboard.


    "That was five or six years ago. At that time, the eleventh brother and Princess Qing Qing were still young, at most childhood playmates," Mu Yuan said with a forced smile.


    "Perhaps."


    The Emperor said indifferently, "Mu Yuan, you are my eldest son, and I have great expectations for you. By betrothing Princess Qing Qing to you, I intend to pave the way for your future. I hope you will not disappoint me."


    "Your son thanks you for your cultivation."


    Mu Yuan set down the chess piece and once again bowed respectfully, "I will not let you down, Father."


    "Mhm."


    The Emperor nodded, not saying anything more, his gaze still on the chessboard, his expression calm, revealing no emotion.


    Mu Yuan also fell silent, playing the game move by move against his father, no longer speaking.


    The endgame was quickly resolved, and the victor was decided.


    The Emperor made his move, reviving the great dragon, annihilating the black pieces.


    "I have lost," Mu Yuan conceded, setting down his piece.


    "Practice more, you may leave," the Emperor said indifferently.


    "Yes!"


    Mu Yuan bowed and then wheeled himself away.


    Outside Shou''an Hall, the old eunuch Zhao Jie approached and began to push the wheelchair, heading out of the palace.


    "Your Highness, the Emperor''s marriage grant seems to indicate high expectations for you," Zhao Jie spoke softly.


    "Heh."


    Mu Yuan let out a cold laugh, "You underestimate our Father. By granting this marriage to me, he only seeks to balance the power among us four princes. Moreover..."


    At this point, Mu Yuan''s tone paused, and he said with a cold expression, "To incite conflict between me and the eleventh brother."


    "The eleventh prince?"


    Upon hearing this, Zhao Jie''s expression became serious, "Would the eleventh prince really become hostile towards Your Highness over Princess Qing Qing?"


    "He will."


    Mu Yuan nodded, a glint in his eyes, "The eleventh brother is honest and impulsive. His sudden return to the capital must be because he has heard of the purpose of the King of the Southwest''s visit, so he rushed back to ask Father for a decree to marry Princess Qing Qing." sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If it is as Your Highness says, the Emperor intentionally granted the marriage to Your Highness before the eleventh prince''s return. Such scheming is truly frightening," Zhao Jie said with a grave expression. With just one Princess Qing Qing, he balanced the power among the four princes and further incited conflict between two of them, killing two birds with one stone, a masterful move indeed.


    "Father."


    Mu Yuan murmured softly, "What are you really thinking?"


    Inside Shou''an Hall, after Mu Yuan left, the Emperor quietly watched the chessboard. After a long time, he spoke, "What do you think of my eldest son?"


    "His mind is meticulous, a dragon among men."


    In the hall, a strange aura emerged amidst swirling black mist, appearing neither human nor ghost, with a chilling gaze that could make one shiver.


    "Too cautious, lacking in initiative."


    The Emperor waved his hand, shattering the chess pieces on the board, and spoke indifferently, "The extreme night has not yet arrived; isn''t it too early for you to come out?"


    "The fierce beast must hunt."


    The figure within the black mist spoke, "We will keep our promise to Your Majesty, and we ask that Your Majesty also keep yours."


    "My promises are always as solid as gold."


    The Emperor said lightly, "However, you had better restrain yourselves. The Imperial Academy has the Confucian Scholar, who can observe the affairs of the world. If he discovers your traces, even I cannot protect you."


    "Your Majesty need not worry. The extreme winter night is approaching, and the darkness will obscure all sight. Even the Confucian Scholar will not be able to see as far as before."


    As the voice spoke, the figure in the black mist gradually dissipated, and in the blink of an eye, it vanished without a trace.

 Chapter 61 – Monster eats people

    In the capital city of Great Shang, the decree of the Shang Emperor''s marriage was quickly issued, shocking the entire city.


    Just like Li Ziye, no one had expected that the person chosen by the Shang Emperor would be the eldest prince, who had the lowest presence among the four princes.


    Many people who were friendly with the Southwest King came to visit, trying to find out something.


    After all, the eldest prince had a leg disability, and they couldn''t understand why the Southwest King would agree to this marriage.


    Even if this was the Emperor''s decision, if the Southwest King was unwilling, the Emperor could not force it.


    However, the Southwest King remained silent and did not show any dissatisfaction.


    "Father, how could you agree to this marriage? That Mu Yuan is a cripple. You are harming Qing Qing!"


    In the mansion of the Martial King in the capital city, the sound of quarreling rang out. The Southwest King''s eldest son, Zhu Qingge, looked at his father with anger and shouted.


    "So what if he''s a cripple? He is the Emperor''s eldest son and has the potential to become the Crown Prince!" The Southwest King suppressed his anger and responded coldly.


    "Great Shang has more than just this one prince. The other three princes are all outstanding individuals. Why do you have to choose this cripple?" Zhu Qingge angrily retorted.


    "This is the Emperor''s decision. As a subject, I must obey." The Southwest King said in a deep voice.


    "Emperor, it''s always the Emperor in your eyes. Don''t you have your own wife and children?"


    Zhu Qingge clenched his hands tightly and said uncontrollably.


    "How dare you speak such rebellious words!"  S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Southwest King''s face changed, and he slapped Zhu Qingge in the face, angrily saying, "How dare you speak such rebellious words!"


    With a loud slap, five bright red palm prints appeared on Zhu Qingge''s face, glaringly obvious.


    The Southwest King''s hand trembled, and he regretted it after the slap.


    "Father, you have disappointed your son too much!"


    Zhu Qingge looked at his father, who seemed somewhat unfamiliar, with a disappointed expression, then turned and left.


    Once, his father was a fearless figure in his eyes, the indomitable Martial King of Great Shang. But today, all of these impressions had completely collapsed.


    In the mansion, the Southwest King looked at his son''s departing figure, his expression darkening.


    He knew that neither Qing Qing nor Qingge would be satisfied with this marriage, but he had no choice.


    The Emperor in the Hall of Heavenly Worship was not as simple as he appeared on the surface. He couldn''t gamble with the fate of the entire Southwest King''s mansion and could only obey the Emperor''s orders.


    In the Shihua Garden, as night fell, Zhu Qingge sat in the hall, drinking cup after cup, his anger clearly visible.


    No one dared to approach him.


    "Would you mind having a drink with me, brother?"


    At this moment, a calm voice sounded in Zhu Qingge''s ear.


    "Get lost!"


    Zhu Qingge coldly spat out a word and continued to drink by himself.


    "Your wine is terrible."


    A young man sat down at the table, directly placing a jar of wine on the table, saying, "The wine from my Li Family is the best in the world!"


    "Li Family?"


    Zhu Qingge looked up at the young man in front of him and squinted his eyes slightly, saying, "You are the legitimate son of the Li Family who has been making a lot of noise recently."


    "Just a reputation."


    Li Ziye opened the wine jar and poured a cup for the Southwest King''s eldest son, smiling, "Try it."


    Zhu Qingge frowned but did not refuse. He picked up the cup and drank it all in one go.


    As the wine entered his throat, a fiery sensation came, so intense that it made his head spin. The burning heat of the strong wine made him dizzy.


    "Good wine!"


    Zhu Qingge coughed a few times and showed a look of enjoyment on his face. This was real wine, strong enough!


    Compared to this wine, the wine he had drunk before was as bland as water.


    Li Ziye smiled and poured another cup for Zhu Qingge, saying, "The Southwest King''s eldest son, with such a noble status, also has things that trouble him?"


    Zhu Qingge''s eyes narrowed at the words and he said, "You know my identity?"


    "Heh."


    Li Ziye smiled lightly and said, "This jar of wine, ''Drunk in Dreams,'' is worth a hundred gold. If you weren''t the Southwest King''s eldest son, why would I take the initiative to offer you a drink? Does the prince really think there is such a thing as an instant connection and a belated meeting in this world?"


    After hearing the young man''s direct words, Zhu Qingge was first stunned, then laughed heartily and said, "Haha, you''re right. If I weren''t the Southwest King''s eldest son, who would take the initiative to offer me a drink!"


    Li Ziye smiled and poured himself a cup of wine. To be honest, he didn''t really like this ''Drunk in Dreams'' wine; it was too strong!


    He was a refined person and had to maintain the image of a modest young master at all times.


    "Speak up. What do you want from me? I''ve drunk your wine, so I can agree to do a small favor for you."


    Zhu Qingge finished the wine in his cup and then looked at the young man beside him, speaking directly.


    "The Li Family can also do what the prince can do. There''s no need to trouble the prince."


    Li Ziye continued to pour wine for the former and said, "Today, I came here just to invite the prince to have a drink. After all, if the prince wasn''t in a bad mood today and came here to drink, it wouldn''t be easy for a commoner like me from the merchant family to get to know the prince."


    "With you in the Li Family, it will prosper."


    Zhu Qingge took a sip of the strong wine, this time not drinking it all at once, and calmly commented."Thank you for the praise, Your Highness."


    Li Ziye chuckled and said, "Since the matter is settled, getting angry is pointless. Why not think about what to do next?"


    "Do you know what I''m angry about?" Zhu Qingge frowned.


    "It''s quite obvious."


    Li Ziye lifted his cup, gazed at the wine within, and with a slight smile, said, "To be honest, His Majesty''s arranged marriage caught most people off guard, except for the Confucian School."


    With that, Li Ziye drained his cup in one gulp.


    Instantly, a burning sensation spread, stinging his throat painfully.


    "The Confucian School?"


    Upon hearing this reminder, Zhu Qingge''s expression changed dramatically, realizing he had forgotten about this.


    If there was anyone in this world who could change His Majesty''s decision, it would only be the Confucian Scholar, the Teacher of All Under Heaven!


    "Thank you for the reminder!"


    Zhu Qingge came back to his senses, set down his cup, and stood up to leave.


    "Where are you going, Your Highness?"


    Li Ziye reached out and grabbed him, asking.


    "To the Confucian School," Zhu Qingge replied.


    "Your Highness, it''s already dark."


    Li Ziye said with a smile, "Even if you want to visit the Confucian School, you should at least wait until tomorrow morning, shouldn''t you?"


    Zhu Qingge was startled, then looked outside at the darkened sky and had no choice but to sit back down. He picked up the wine and drank it in one gulp, saying, "Sorry, I was too anxious."


    "Concern leads to chaos."


    Li Ziye calmly said, "Your Highness, you should be mentally prepared. Meeting the Confucian Scholar may not be so easy."


    "I understand."


    Zhu Qingge took the wine jug from the table, filled his cup, and continued to drink silently.


    Li Ziye did not disturb him and quietly accompanied him in drinking.


    After a long while, when the wine was finished, Zhu Qingge stood up, staggering slightly.


    Li Ziye reached out to support him and said, "Let me escort you back to your residence."


    "Thank you."


    Zhu Qingge rubbed his somewhat aching head and replied.


    Li Ziye helped him out of the Shi Hua Garden and headed towards the Southwest King''s Mansion.


    The night streets were so quiet, having lost the hustle and bustle of the day, everything returned to peace.


    As they walked, they didn''t talk much.


    Li Ziye''s purpose was really just to make connections with the Southwest King''s heir because he knew very well that too much of anything is not good, and a good impression was enough to change many things.


    "Li Brother, thank you for today!"


    Approaching the Southwest King''s Mansion, Zhu Qingge spoke earnestly, "I am glad to have made a friend like Li Brother."


    Although the direct heir of the Li Family had stated his intentions upon meeting, this had made him feel more favorable and less guarded.


    "I feel the same."


    Li Ziye smiled and said, "Your Highness, until we meet again."


    After speaking, Li Ziye did not say more, changed direction, and prepared to return to Li Garden.


    Unexpectedly!


    Just then, a cold wind howled on the street, dark energy swirling, and an extremely cold aura swept over, enveloping both of them.


    Li Ziye and Zhu Qingge felt it and their expressions changed.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud noise, the dark energy arrived, and as they made their move, they found themselves powerless to retaliate, sent flying by a tremendous force.


    Ten steps away, they stumbled to the ground, blood spilling from the corners of their mouths.


    "What is this thing?"


    Zhu Qingge looked at the spreading dark energy in shock.


    "I don''t know, I''ve never seen it before."


    Li Ziye wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and said in a deep voice.


    Zhu Qingge glanced at the nearby Southwest King''s Mansion and said gravely, "We''re so close to the mansion, my father should have noticed by now, why¡ª"


    Before he could finish, the dark energy surged forward, continuing to rush at them.


    Within the dark energy, a pair of cold eyes appeared, their gaze so chilling that even the heavens and earth seemed to freeze.


    "Clang!"


    Li Ziye drew his flexible sword from his waist, infused it with Genuine Qi, and slashed at the dark energy.


    A grating sound of metal scraping echoed as the sword met the dark energy, blocked as if by sharp claws, unable to advance an inch.


    Beside him, Zhu Qingge regained his composure, without any hesitation, his two Divine Hidden Techniques roared, powerful Genuine Qi surged out, and with a deep shout, he threw a punch.


    "Boom!"


    In the massive impact, their attacks were simultaneously blocked by the figure within the dark energy, unable to inflict any damage.


    "Cackle! Cackle!"


    An eerily piercing laughter came from the dark energy, which exploded with chilling aura, sending them flying once again.


    "Spit!"


    Ten steps away, they steadied themselves, both spitting out a mouthful of blood.


    What kind of monster?


    They exchanged glances, shock evident in their eyes. The creature within the dark energy was definitely not human.


    "Clang!"


    In a critical moment, from afar, a righteous Qi surged to the sky, sword energy crisscrossing, a fiery meteor-like sword light broke through the air, slashing towards the dark energy in front of them.


    With a thunderous roar, the street shook.


    "Ah!"


    In a piercing scream, a shocking scene unfolded. The creature, previously unharmed by blade or sword, burst into violent flames upon contact with the righteous Qi of the Taiyi Sword.Moments later, at the end of the street, a figure clad in a white scholar''s robe appeared. In the blink of an eye, he was standing before the two, his gaze fixed on the silhouette shrouded in dark qi ahead, a rare glint of murderous intent flickering in his eyes.


    We are ", find us on google.


    "Brother Li, Young Master, please step back a bit."

 Chapter 62 – The Book of Heaven Reopens

    Capital City, under the cover of night.


    A demon appeared, and as Li Ziye faced peril, Bai Wangyu emerged once again.


    However, this time, even the usually tranquil eldest disciple of the Confucian School showed a hint of murderous intent on his face.


    Behind them, Li Ziye and Zhu Qingge exchanged glances before simultaneously retreating thirty feet away.


    On the street, a cold wind blew as Bai Wangyu''s right hand formed a void grip, summoning the Taiyi Sword back into his palm.


    "Disciple of the Confucian School!"


    Ahead, amidst the black fog, the demon let out a chilling laugh as dark energy surged around it before charging forward.


    Bai Wangyu, unfazed, swept his Taiyi Sword across, unleashing a righteous energy that spread like a tidal wave.


    "Boom!"


    The first move, a claw strike, clashed with the ancient sword, the opposing auras eroding each other with a continuous hissing sound.


    At close quarters, the demon extended its other claw, dark as ink and flashing with a blinding metallic luster, its fleshly body as formidable as divine weapons.


    Bai Wangyu snorted coldly, his left hand forming a sword with two fingers, channeling a vast righteous energy that met the demon''s claw head-on.


    With a thud, the shockwave sent debris flying on the street, a stark contrast of light and darkness.


    "The Gentleman''s Breeze!"


    With the second move, Bai Wangyu let out a cold shout as dazzling white light enveloped him, his sword energy piercing the darkness, sweeping the skies with a single strike.


    The ancient sword, with its overwhelming sword energy, created a sandstorm within a thirty-foot radius.


    Sensing the danger, the demon''s expression shifted slightly as it gathered an endless chill in its claws, bracing against the incoming attack.


    Boom!


    In the earth-shattering collision, the demon grunted, stumbling back several steps, its claws dripping with blood.


    Outside the fray, Li Ziye was shocked by the scene.


    Little Red Riding Hood was so powerful!


    The monster that he and the Crown Prince of the Southwest couldn''t defeat, Little Red Riding Hood managed to injure severely on his own.


    Beside him, Zhu Qingge also showed a hint of surprise as he watched the battle.


    The eldest disciple of the Confucian School truly lived up to his reputation.


    Judging by his cultivation, he wasn''t far from unlocking the third Divine Hidden Technique.


    Among the younger generation, only those four Unparalleled Arrogances known to the world could be mentioned in the same breath as him.


    Back in the battle, after severely injuring the demon with one move, Bai Wangyu didn''t pause, stepping forward and instantly closing the distance to the demon.


    "Imprisoning Ground!"


    With a deep shout, Bai Wangyu reached out and grasped the demon''s throat, slamming it to the ground with a thunderous impact.


    In an instant, a vast righteous energy surged from the two of them, forming a cage that trapped the demon.


    Three moves to quell the storm, Bai Wangyu sheathed his sword, ready to take the imprisoned demon back to the Confucian School.


    However, at that moment, a powerful palm strike tore through the sky, shattering the cage with a single blow.


    The sudden turn of events shocked the three onlookers.


    Bai Wangyu''s expression changed, and he attempted to intervene, but it was too late!


    "Cackle!"


    Amidst the dissipating cage, the demon broke free, retreating more than thirty feet in the blink of an eye.


    "Human, leave your name behind!"


    From within the surging black energy, the demon spoke.


    "Confucian School, Bai Wangyu!" he replied coldly.


    "Cackle, live well, for next time, your flesh and blood will be mine!"


    With a grating laugh, the black energy dispersed, and in the next breath, it vanished into the night.


    "Old Bai, what was that thing?"


    On the street, Li Ziye came to his senses, stepping forward and asking anxiously.


    "Demon feasting on humans, the Great Night descends."


    Bai Wangyu spoke gravely, "If I''m not mistaken, that must be the demon mentioned by the Confucian Scholar!"


    "A demon?" S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Ziye was taken aback, and after a moment, he exclaimed in shock, "Don''t make fun of me for being uneducated; are there really demons in this world?"


    In both his past and present lives, he had never heard of demons existing in the world.


    Bai Wangyu didn''t elaborate further but turned to the Crown Prince of the Southwest beside Li Ziye, bowing with a fist and saying, "Your Highness, I ask that today''s events remain confidential."


    Zhu Qingge nodded slightly, understanding, "I understand."


    He was well aware of the panic that would ensue if word of today''s events spread.


    "Thank you."


    Bai Wangyu acknowledged, then turned to Li Ziye, "Brother Li, let''s go back."


    "Alright."


    Li Ziye nodded, bid farewell to the Crown Prince of the Southwest, and then walked towards Li Garden with Little Red Riding Hood.


    The autumn night was cool, and as the two walked side by side, they spoke less than before.


    "Brother Li, I know you have many questions, but I don''t know much either. If you want to understand these matters, you''ll have to ask the Confucian Scholar," Bai Wangyu said after a while, calmly breaking the silence.


    "This world, it''s becoming more and more incomprehensible to me."


    Li Ziye sighed lightly, "I used to think I could change the whole world, but now I realize I don''t even know what this world is like."


    "Not only does Brother Li not know, but throughout the ages, how many sages have truly seen the world clearly?" Bai Wangyu said softly.


    "I don''t like it."


    Li Ziye looked into the darkness ahead, "I don''t like this feeling. The world should be clean, with at most minor disputes, not these filthy things."


    "Then Brother Li should change it."


    Bai Wangyu spoke earnestly, "Change the world, make it the clean world you envision."


    "Me?"


    Li Ziye was slightly surprised, "I couldn''t even defeat that demon just now, how can I change the world?"


    "Don''t rush the moment."


    Bai Wangyu said softly, "As long as Brother Li holds firm to his beliefs, one day, you will be able to change this world."


    "Old Bai, it''s a pity you were born in this era."


    Li Ziye looked at the man before him, and after a long while, he spoke with emotion, "If you were born a few thousand years later, you would be the most successful motivational speaker."


    Bai Wangyu listened to the young man''s usual nonsensical talk without minding it.


    Since the Confucian Scholar believed in Brother Li''s ability, he believed as well.


    "Thud!"


    As they conversed, a peculiar bell sound suddenly rang out above the Capital City, not loud, but clearly reaching every corner of the city.


    "The bell!"Bai Wangyu sensed something, his gaze shifting toward the direction of the Imperial Academy, his face showing a look of shock.


    "What''s with the bell?"


    Li Ziye also heard the sudden tolling of the bell in the night and asked in confusion.


    "When the bell tolls, the Heavenly Tome opens."


    Bai Wangyu spoke gravely, "The Confucian Scholar has opened the Heavenly Tome ahead of time. It seems he too has detected the presence of the demon."


    "Heavenly Tome?"


    Hearing about this so-called Heavenly Tome for the second time, Li Ziye''s expression grew even more puzzled, "What exactly is the Heavenly Tome?"


    "A fragmented stele of mysterious origin, its history unknown to all."


    Bai Wangyu replied, then looked at the youth beside him and said, "Brother Li, your chance has come. Haven''t you always wanted to unblock all eight meridians? The Heavenly Tome is open. As long as you can pass the Confucian Scholar''s test and inscribe your name on the Heavenly Tome, not to mention unblocking all the meridians, even advancing to the Five Realms in one step is not impossible."


    "Cough cough, what did you say?"


    Li Ziye almost choked on his own saliva upon hearing this, "Advance to the Five Realms in one step? Why do I feel like you''re pulling my leg?"


    "It''s true."


    Bai Wangyu said earnestly, "Do you know who was the last person to inscribe their name on the Heavenly Tome?"


    "I don''t know."


    Li Ziye shook his head.


    "The Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple, Fu Jinglun!"


    Bai Wangyu declared solemnly, "Back then, Fu Jinglun was just a scholar who came to study at the Imperial Academy. His talent and insight shocked even the seasoned Instructors of the Academy. It was then that the Heavenly Tome opened, and Fu Jinglun became the only person to pass the Confucian Scholar''s test, successfully inscribing his name on the Heavenly Tome and advancing to the Five Realms in one step, stunning the world."


    Li Ziye listened to the story that sounded like a myth from Bai Wangyu''s mouth, finding it hard to believe.


    Not practicing martial arts, he was unaware of the difficulties of the martial path.


    He had suffered so much and endured so much pain, and now he had only just stepped into the latter phase of the First Realm.


    Now he was being told that the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle had advanced to the Five Realms in one step, which was simply... nonsensical.


    "What about the others? There must be more than just Fu Jinglun who have inscribed their names on the Heavenly Tome, right?" Li Ziye suppressed the turmoil in his heart and asked with curiosity.


    "The Heavenly Tome opens once every hundred years. Only those who have seen the Heavenly Tome know exactly how many names are inscribed on it."


    Bai Wangyu said calmly, "Once Brother Li passes the Confucian Scholar''s test, you can see for yourself."


    "With my level of cultivation, who can I defeat? Old Bai, you seem to have a good chance. When the time comes, help me take a look."


    Li Ziye spoke with a mix of disappointment and anticipation.


    Although he felt he had little chance, he would be very happy if Bai Wangyu could seize this opportunity.


    However, it could only be Bai Wangyu; he didn''t like the others!


    "Brother Li need not worry. The Confucian Scholar''s test doesn''t have much to do with the level of cultivation."


    Bai Wangyu consoled him, "When Fu Jinglun passed the test, his cultivation was about the same as Brother Li''s, not even having opened the second Divine Hidden Technique. So, Brother Li just do your best without overthinking it. As for me, the Confucian Scholar has said that my name will not appear on the Heavenly Tome, and this opportunity is more important for Brother Li. How could I compete with Brother Li? If possible, when the time comes, I will do my utmost to fend off one or two opponents for Brother Li, lending you a helping hand."


    "Old Bai, you''re really too kind!"


    Li Ziye was moved to tears by Bai Wangyu''s words.


    His father was Old Li, but the one who truly knew him was Bai Wangyu!


    He was thankful to the heavens for bringing Bai Wangyu into his life.


    ...


    Honglu Temple.


    Under the moonlight, Yan Xiaoyu stood in the courtyard dressed in a moon-white divine robe, his gaze fixed in the direction of the Imperial Academy, the corners of his mouth slightly curved.


    The Temple Master''s calculations were indeed correct.


    The Heavenly Tome had truly opened ahead of time.


    His second purpose for coming to the Capital of Great Shang was this Heavenly Tome!


    But he was not just here to inscribe his name.


    He was here to seize the Heavenly Tome!


    With the Divine Temple''s century-long plan, as long as he could get close to the Heavenly Tome, with the Temple Master''s ability to reach the heavens, he would surely be able to bring the Heavenly Tome back to the Divine Oracle Temple.


    Once the Divine Temple obtained the Heavenly Tome, coupled with the Divine Oracle Sword, it wouldn''t be long before the entire Nine Provinces would bask in the glory of the God of Light!

 Chapter 63 – Rumors and gossip

    "Did you hear the bell from the Imperial Academy last night?"


    The next day, in the capital city of Great Shang, the people began to discuss the bell that rang last night. Whether they actually heard it or not, they were all very curious at this moment.


    "I heard it. It is said that when the bell of the Imperial Academy rings, it means that the Divine Scripture is about to open."


    "The Divine Scripture? What is that?"


    "I don''t know. No one has seen it, but it is said to be a stone tablet that knows all the affairs of the world, with the power to reach the heavens and the earth."


    "Really? Just a stone tablet can be so powerful?"


    "Yes, you haven''t heard? In the past, the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle engraved his name on the Divine Scripture, and upon entering the Five Realms, he became a powerful figure second only to the Confucian Scholar."


    "Wow, that''s amazing. Does that mean if we can engrave our names on the Divine Scripture, we can also become great practitioners like the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle?"


    "Don''t be ridiculous. Every time the Divine Scripture opens, countless young talents will flock to it, and they must also pass the test of the Confucian Scholar. Let''s just watch the excitement."


    "Who do you think will be able to engrave their name on the Divine Scripture this time?"


    "It''s hard to say, but every disciple of the Confucian School is outstanding among their peers, and the senior disciple of the Confucian School is said to be no less talented than the four great geniuses in the world."


    "I guess it will be Yan Xiaoyu. Now that the Divine Child of the Divine Oracle is in the capital city, who can stop him from seizing this opportunity?"


    "You make a good point. I almost forgot about the Divine Child of the Divine Oracle. It''s not good. If the people of the Divine Oracle seize the opportunity to engrave their names on the Divine Scripture, the reputation of Great Shang will be ruined."


    "The Divine Child of the Divine Oracle is nothing. I guess the winner will be Li Ziye from the Li Family. Don''t you know? These days, even the senior disciple of the Confucian School has been following Li Ziye, supposedly under the order of the Confucian Scholar, to study with him. Just think, the person who can teach the senior disciple of the Confucian School must be an extraordinary figure."


    "Nonsense, is that true?"


    "Of course, haven''t you heard? Li Ziye once said a very domineering statement, ''If heaven does not give birth to me, Li Ziye, then the swordsmanship of the eternal night!''"


    ...


    "Cough, cough, I never said that, I absolutely never said that!"


    Li Yuan, Li Ziye, listened to the ridiculous rumors spreading among the people in the capital city and hurriedly defended himself.


    These commoners are really boring, they can talk nonsense all they want, why do they have to involve him?


    It''s like the pot calling the kettle black!


    "It seems that even the commoners are rooting for Brother Li. Brother Li, you can do it. I believe in you too!"


    In the west wing, Bai Wangyu looked at the young man beside him with an auntie-like smile and said.


    "Get lost. Don''t you know that too much attention will lead to death?"


    Li Ziye said impatiently, "This is the time to keep a low profile. I have to spend some silver to change the public opinion and make people criticize Yan Xiaoyu, and try to choke him with poisonous milk!"


    "Milk?"


    Bai Wangyu, listening to the nonsense spewing from the young man beside him, said in annoyance, "What do you mean?"


    "It means praise." Li Ziye said casually.


    "Then I''ll praise Brother Li too." Bai Wangyu smiled and said, putting it into practice.


    "Get lost!"


    Li Ziye almost choked on his own words and said, "Old Bai, you are really becoming more and more incorrigible!"


    Bai Wangyu chuckled and said, "Brother Li, you have to work hard. This time, there are many people competing with you. Now that I think about it, Yan Xiaoyu''s arrival in the capital city is too coincidental. It must be because the scholar of the Divine Oracle calculated that the Divine Scripture was about to open early, so he sent Yan Xiaoyu to seize this opportunity."


    "If it weren''t for you, I would have no hope of winning."


    "So, Brother Li, you have to work hard. At least, before the Divine Scripture officially opens, you have to master the third move of the Flying Immortal Technique." Bai Wangyu encouraged.


    "It''s difficult!"


    Li Ziye looked at the red line formation in front of him, feeling overwhelmed, and said, "I''ve only practiced the footwork to twenty steps. The last seven steps are getting harder and harder, and I can''t control my body every time."


    "Brother Li, take this."


    Bai Wangyu took out a white jade bottle from his pocket and handed it to Li Ziye.


    "What is this?"


    Seeing the jade bottle handed to him, Li Ziye curiously took it and opened it to ask.


    "Return to Spirit Pill, a secret medicine of the Confucian School, can help Brother Li quickly restore the true energy consumed in the Divine Hidden Technique." Bai Wangyu replied.


    "Wow, there really is such a thing. Why didn''t you bring it out earlier, Old Bai?"


    Li Ziye, upon hearing this, immediately held the jade bottle tightly as if he had obtained a treasure, his eyes shining. What a great thing!


    "Because it''s expensive."Bai Wangyu deliberately showed a pained expression on his face and said, "Such elixirs are scarce even in the Confucian School. I had to rely on my status as the eldest senior brother and forcefully snatch it from the junior brother in charge of guarding the elixir chamber. I reckon that junior brother has already gone to complain to the esteemed Master of the Confucian School by now."


    "Old Bai, you''re truly too righteous!"


    Li Ziye burst into hearty laughter upon hearing this and said, "No worries, if the Confucian School doesn''t want you, I''ll take care of you!"


    "I''ll remember Brother Li''s words."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and said, "Brother Li, now that you have the Revival Pill, you must show some spirit. I predict that in no more than ten days, the Heavenly Book will truly open. Before that happens, Brother Li must master the third stance of the Flying Immortal Technique!"


    "No problem, just watch me!"


    Li Ziye immediately stood up, picked up the Chunjun Sword beside him, and walked towards the red thread formation ahead.


    In ten days, he must master the third stance of the Flying Immortal Technique, then inscribe his name in the Heavenly Book and become invincible under the heavens, hahaha!


    ...


    In the southwestern border of the Great Shang, within a quiet pavilion in the middle of the water at the Southwestern King''s Mansion, San Zang sat cross-legged, quietly cultivating.


    With a face as tender as a child''s and exceptionally fair skin, he was the contemporary Buddhist Disciple, known for his clear and pure nature, and hailed as a once-in-a-century Buddhist prodigy, highly likely to become the second Buddha in the mortal world.


    "Monk, don''t you get bored meditating all day?"


    At this moment, a crisp voice came from behind, and entering his view was an extremely beautiful young girl, naturally charming and stealing the essence of heaven and earth.


    The girl was none other than Princess Qing Qing, who had recently returned to the mansion. After some rest, her mood had improved a lot. Apart from her memory not yet recovered, she was otherwise no different from ordinary people.


    "Princess."


    San Zang opened his eyes and looked at the girl who approached, showing a serene smile on his fair face and said, "Cultivation is all about cultivating the mind. With Buddha in the heart, how could one feel bored?"


    "I don''t understand."


    Qing Qing sat beside him, passed over some pastries, and said, "Monk, will you eat?"


    "Princess, please eat. This humble monk is not hungry."


    San Zang replied with a smile.


    "Oh."


    Qing Qing dangled her bare feet in the lake, kicking the water while eating pastries and said, "Monk, it''s so boring here. Why don''t you take me out to play?"


    "Princess, the Queen has ordered that you are not to leave the mansion at will. Moreover, the Princess is now well, and it is time for this humble monk to return," San Zang said with a smile.


    "No, little monk, you can''t go!"


    Upon hearing this, Qing Qing immediately became anxious, put down the plate of pastries, and grabbed his arm, saying, "I won''t let you go."


    San Zang looked at his arm being grasped, struggled a bit unnaturally, and said, "Princess, I descended the mountain on my master''s orders to subdue the demon troubling the villagers below. Now that the Princess is well, this humble monk must return to his duties."


    "No!"


    Qing Qing held onto his arm tightly, refusing to let go and said anxiously, "If you leave, I''ll leave with you!"


    "Princess, it was agreed upon arrival that once the Princess''s health was restored, the mansion would not interfere with this humble monk''s comings and goings," San Zang said helplessly.


    "It was that armored guy who said that, I never did."


    Qing Qing shook her head desperately, her gaze swept around and then settled on the lake in front of her, saying, "Monk, you can''t leave, otherwise, otherwise I''ll jump into this lake!"


    "Amitabha."


    Upon hearing this, San Zang''s expression became even more helpless, and he could only patiently try to persuade her, "Princess, you saw that day, there was a demon in the village. If this humble monk does not subdue that demon, and it comes out to harm people again, the villagers will suffer."


    "There was no demon in the village, just a ferocious beast that ate people, and it''s already dead," Qing Qing said anxiously.


    However, after speaking, Qing Qing immediately covered her mouth, a glint of light flashed in her eyes as if she knew she had misspoken and dared not say more.


    "Princess, what did you say?" San Zang frowned, puzzled.


    "Nothing."


    Qing Qing forced a smile, still holding onto his arm, and said, "Anyway, I won''t let you go. If you''re worried about demons harming people, I''ll have the soldiers from the mansion help you subdue them. That way, you won''t have to rush back, right?"


    "Princess."


    San Zang was about to say something else.


    At this moment, a servant hurried over from behind and said, "Princess, the Queen asks for your presence."


    Upon hearing this, Qing Qing pouted and said, "Alright."


    After speaking, Qing Qing stood up and walked out of the pavilion.


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    "Monk, you can''t leave."


    At the water''s edge, Qing Qing turned back, looked at the little monk in the pavilion, and smiled sweetly, "Otherwise, I''ll jump into this lake. The Buddhist Sect does not permit the taking of life, so if you leave, you would be breaking your precepts."


    "Amitabha."


    San Zang heard this and showed a bitter smile, unsure of how to handle the situation.


    Seeing this, Qing Qing left, satisfied.


    Inside the mansion''s inner courtyard, a dignified and elegant woman sat in the hall. Seeing her daughter approaching, the worry on her face eased a bit, and she stood up saying, "Qing Qing, come sit by your mother."


    Qing Qing approached somewhat reluctantly and sat down next to the woman."Your father, the king, has sent a letter, asking you to hurry to the Capital City. Ah, I really don''t understand what your father is thinking, agreeing to let you marry the eldest prince. Clearly, there are so many better options, yet he insists on choosing someone disabled." The woman looked at the letter on the table, her face showing worry once again as she rambled on.


    The Southwest Princess failed to notice that, at this moment, a chilling green light flickered in her daughter''s eyes. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Demonic aura."


    Meanwhile, outside the Southwest King''s mansion, a monk approached, his gaze fixed on the mansion ahead, his expression solemn.

 Chapter 64 – Doomed fate

    Outside the Southwest King''s Mansion, a monk walked over and looked at the mansion in front of him. After hesitating for a moment, he stepped forward and respectfully saluted the two soldiers in front of the mansion, saying politely:


    "Amitabha, two generals, the monk has something to discuss with the queen. Can you please inform her on my behalf?"


    "You want to see the queen?"


    In front of the mansion, the two soldiers glanced at each other, and one of them asked.


    "Yes, the monk knows the whereabouts of Princess Qing Qing and wants to inform the queen," the monk said.


    Upon hearing this, the two soldiers burst into laughter and said, "Monk, if you want to deceive for a reward, you should inquire clearly first. The princess has returned to the mansion for several days. It''s too late to come for a reward now!"


    "The princess has returned to the mansion?"


    The monk''s expression slightly condensed, and he said, "Is this true?"


    "How could it be false? Monk, go on your way. In consideration of your status as a monk, we will spare you this time, but don''t let it happen again!"


    One of the soldiers responded and then impatiently began to drive the monk away.


    The monk took a step back, looking at the mansion in front of him with a more solemn expression.


    Strange, Princess Qing Qing is clearly dead.


    Could this matter be related to the demonic aura in the mansion just now?


    Thinking of this, the monk turned and left from the front of the mansion, standing silently across the street, waiting.


    He wanted to see if there really was a demon in the mansion!


    At the same time, in the courtyard of the mansion, an argument broke out. Before long, a young girl rushed out and ran to the water pavilion in the courtyard.


    In the pavilion, San Zang, who was meditating, opened his eyes and saw the girl running towards him with a look of confusion, "Princess, what''s the matter?"


    "I''m so angry!"


    Qing Qing looked aggrieved and said, "The queen actually wants me to go to the Capital of Shang and marry some Great Prince!"


    After hearing this, San Zang''s eyes flashed with a different color, and he said, "Princess, the queen is your mother. Why do you address her like that?"


    Qing Qing looked startled, and then said somewhat guiltily, "I''m just angry!"


    "Princess, although I am a monk, I have also heard that marriages in the mortal world are arranged by parents and matchmakers. The marriage arranged by the queen must have been carefully selected. Why are you so angry?" San Zang asked in confusion.


    "I don''t like it!"


    Qing Qing said angrily, "I want to marry the person I like."


    At this point, Qing Qing looked at the young monk beside her and said, "Monk, take me away. I don''t like anyone else except you!"


    "Amitabha!"


    San Zang heard this and recited the Buddha''s name, saying, "Forgive me, Princess, please don''t say such things. I am a monk and have devoted my life to the Buddha."


    "What''s wrong with being a monk? Can''t a monk have someone they like?" Qing Qing said angrily.


    "No."


    San Zang shook his head firmly and said.


    "I don''t care!"


    Qing Qing once again held onto his arm and said, "I don''t want to marry some Great Prince."


    San Zang frowned, broke free from her grasp, and then stood up, clasping his hands together and said, "Amitabha, Princess, I really have to leave!"


    After speaking, San Zang turned and prepared to leave.


    "If you leave, I''ll jump down."


    Behind him, Qing Qing spoke with a serious expression.


    San Zang hesitated for a moment, then bit his lip and continued to walk forward.


    "Plunk!"


    At that moment, the sound of someone falling into the water came from behind, piercing the air.


    Hearing the movement behind him, San Zang hurriedly turned around, only to see that the pavilion behind him was now empty.


    "Princess!"


    San Zang''s face showed an anxious expression as he walked quickly towards the pavilion, without any hesitation, he jumped into the water.


    Before long, San Zang emerged from the water, holding an unconscious girl and struggling to pull her onto the pavilion.


    "Princess!"


    In the pavilion, San Zang shook the unconscious girl vigorously, calling out anxiously.


    "Monk."


    After a few breaths, Qing Qing coughed a few times, weakly opened her eyes, and grabbed the monk''s clothes, saying, "Don''t leave."


    "Why are you doing this, Princess?" San Zang sighed lightly and said.


    Qing Qing held onto his clothes tightly, closed her eyes, and refused to let go.


    San Zang fell silent, looking at the pitiful girl in front of him, and for some reason, a complex emotion rose in his heart.


    Buddha, what should he do?


    Not far away, the queen, who had heard about her daughter falling into the water, hurriedly walked over and happened to see the scene in the pavilion, frowning.


    "Queen."


    A servant stepped forward and respectfully saluted.


    "Arrange a carriage and personnel to go to the Capital City immediately, and send the princess to the Capital of Shang tomorrow," the queen said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    The servant took the order and quickly left.


    By the water''s edge, the queen looked at the pavilion in front of her, and after a moment, she snorted coldly and turned to leave.


    A doomed fate!


    The next day, as the sky brightened, the carriage and the entourage for the princess''s departure to the Capital of Shang were already assembled in front of the mansion, ready to send her off.


    Another argument broke out in the mansion, this time even more intense.


    The queen''s attitude was very firm, with no hint of compromise.Half an hour later, Qing Qing left the inner courtyard in a huff, wanting to go to the water pavilion again.


    However, the guards in the mansion stopped her.


    "Princess, it''s time to leave!"


    The general who had brought Qing Qing back to the mansion before walked over and said respectfully.


    "I''m not going to the capital!" Qing Qing said angrily.


    "Under the order of the princess, I cannot disobey. I''m sorry, Princess!"


    The general said, then looked at the two guards in front, signaling them to take the princess away.


    "Let go of me!"


    Qing Qing was furious, and green light flashed in her eyes. She was about to resist, but then she suddenly paused and saw a little monk not far away.


    Qing Qing''s body immediately softened, and she stopped resisting.


    Not far away, San Zang watched the princess being taken away by the guards from the mansion, and a look of reluctance flashed in his eyes.


    "Little monk, even if I die, I won''t marry that prince."


    Under the coercion of the guards from the mansion, Qing Qing opened her mouth and said in a low voice, her voice not loud but resolute.


    Ten steps away, San Zang heard Qing Qing''s words, and although his expression remained calm, he struggled more and more in his heart.


    Shortly after the mansion''s entourage left, San Zang walked out of the mansion, looking at the direction of the convoy in the distance, silent and struggling.


    "Namo Amitabha."


    After a long time, San Zang chanted the Buddha''s name and made up his mind.


    The princess''s character is strong, and if she is forced, she might really seek death.


    Saving a life is better than building a seven-level pagoda, and he can''t really ignore it!


    San Zang convinced himself in this way and then followed.


    Half a day later, the mansion''s entourage left the capital and headed towards the Great Shang capital in the east.


    In the rear of the convoy, San Zang followed from a distance, not wanting the princess to discover him.


    Inside the carriage, Qing Qing kept lifting the curtain to look back, hoping to find a familiar figure.


    But after looking several times, she still didn''t see him.


    A touch of sadness flashed across Qing Qing''s beautiful face. Could it be that he didn''t follow?


    As Qing Qing, the princess, set off for the Great Shang capital, the capital became very lively because of the impending opening of the celestial book.


    For several days, all eyes were on the Imperial Academy, waiting for the moment when the celestial book would truly open.


    The ninth day!


    In the western courtyard of Li Yuan, an extremely arrogant laughter rang out, spreading throughout the mansion.


    "I finally mastered it! Haha!"


    At the end of the Red Line Formation, Li Ziye stood with his hands on his hips, looking up and laughing heartily, with a disdainful look and a proud chin.


    In the inner courtyard, Slovenly Zhang heard the arrogant laughter from the western courtyard, and a strange look flashed across his old face.


    He actually mastered the third move of the Flying Immortal Art in the first realm!


    Although this kid has good cultivation resources that make people jealous, being able to master the third move of the Flying Immortal Art in just over a month is also commendable. He even dares to use the potent medicine, which is bitter and astringent, to restore his Genuine Qi. This kid is really ruthless when he goes all out.


    He finds it disgusting, and he doesn''t even know how the kid swallowed it.


    But mastering the third move of the Flying Immortal Art also brings great rewards, meaning that this kid truly has the qualifications to challenge the young generation of experts from now on.


    Although he is still far behind Unparalleled Arrogance, Bai Wangyu, and Yan Xiaoyu, there are only a few people like Unparalleled Arrogance, Bai Wangyu, and Yan Xiaoyu in the world.


    "Congratulations, Brother Li."


    In the western courtyard, Bai Wangyu looked at the young man who was about to take off and smiled.


    "Be modest, be modest!"


    Li Ziye laughed heartily with his hands on his hips. "I am indeed a genius."


    "Brother Li, do you want to have a little competition?"


    Bai Wangyu took out the Taiyi Sword and smiled.


    "Uh."


    Li Ziye''s smile froze at the words, and he said awkwardly, "No need."


    "Hey, there''s no harm in having a little competition. Martial arts need to be practiced regularly to understand how far you have come." Bai Wangyu smiled.


    "Get lost!"


    Seeing the smile on the other''s face, Li Ziye suddenly realized that Little Red Riding Hood was deliberately provoking him, and he said with a displeased expression, "Old Bai, you are becoming more and more unruly!


    He''s just a little proud, is it too much, too much!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Just then, the sound of a bell suddenly rang out in the sky above the capital, this time, it rang three times in a row, shaking the entire capital.


    "The celestial book has opened!"


    All eyes turned to the direction of the Imperial Academy and spoke in unison.


    In the western courtyard, Bai Wangyu heard the bell ringing in the sky above the capital, and his expression also became serious. He looked in the direction of the Imperial Academy and said, "The celestial book has opened, Brother Li, let''s go!"Having said that, Bai Wangyu waved his hand to put away the Taiyi Sword and strode towards the western chamber.


    "So hasty."


    Li Ziye was taken aback, then quickly gathered his wits and hurried after him.


    Imperial Academy.


    As the Heavenly Tome appeared, a surge of vast righteousness and a radiance of ten thousand zhang illuminated heaven and earth. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Within the dazzling white light, a stone stele faintly emerged. The stele was somewhat damaged, yet it exuded an indescribable oppressive force.


    In front of the Heavenly Tome, the Confucian Scholar stood quietly, his gaze fixed on the stele ahead, with ancient eyes flickering with specks of light.


    Who will be the one to have their name engraved on the Heavenly Tome this time?


    In the extreme night of the cold winter, monsters devour humans; the human world needs a variable, a variable that can change everything!

 Chapter 65 – Hoodwink

    Imperial Academy, the Flameheart Tower, is ablaze with light.


    In the dazzling white light, the Heavenly Book floats, filled with righteousness and awe-inspiring power.


    With the thousand-year fortune of the Confucian School, the power of the Heavenly Book has reached the level of understanding the principles of the world. Therefore, in the capital city, the Confucian Scholar is invincible.


    Today, as the Heavenly Book opens once again, various forces are immediately stirred up.


    In this lifetime, if one can seize the opportunity to inscribe their name on the Heavenly Book, break into the Five Realms, and make a name for themselves, it''s only a matter of time.


    If luck is on their side, they might even step into the Five Realms like the former Temple Master, becoming invincible in the world.


    "Is this the Heavenly Book?"


    In front of the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye looked at the floating stone tablet on the distant high tower, showing a look of amazement and said, "It looks like a thousand-watt light bulb!"


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu listened to the words of Brother Li beside him, feeling speechless. This Brother Li really dares to say anything.


    If the Heavenly Book had a spirit, he would have to beat this guy to death.


    "Brother Li, when you enter the Flameheart Tower later, you must hold onto your original intention and not lose your mind. Otherwise, once you lose consciousness, you will be immediately sent out of the tower by the Heavenly Book," Bai Wangyu reminded.


    "What if someone knocks me out?" Li Ziye asked curiously.


    "You will also lose your qualification," Bai Wangyu said.


    "Wow, then if Yan Xiaoyu comes, wouldn''t he be invincible?" Li Ziye said discontentedly.


    "Fair enough."


    Bai Wangyu said seriously, "The higher the cultivation level, the stronger the inner demons one has to bear. It is necessary to suppress them with concentration. If one acts recklessly, it is easy to lose their mind. Therefore, even Yan Xiaoyu wouldn''t dare to exert all his strength in the Flameheart Tower."


    "That''s good."


    Li Ziye smiled brightly at the words, "I''m still in the first realm, so my inner demons won''t be too strong. Coupled with the Three Styles of the Flying Immortal Technique, I should be able to walk sideways."


    "More or less."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and said, "Although Brother Li''s cultivation level is only in the first realm, because of the Three Styles of the Flying Immortal Technique, his strength is probably equivalent to the early stage of the second realm. In the Flameheart Tower, he is definitely taking advantage. I think even if Brother Li encounters experts in the mid or late stage of the second realm, as long as the opponent needs to suppress their inner demons, Brother Li won''t be at a disadvantage."


    "Haha, great!"


    Li Ziye''s mood improved after hearing this. It seems that the Flameheart Tower is his home ground!


    Home ground advantage, do you understand?


    Heavenly Book, cheer on, home ground whistle, and black whistle, let''s go!


    "Divine Child."


    At this moment, the envoys of the Divine Temple also walked over. A strong man from the Divine Temple saw Li Ziye in front of the Imperial Academy and said, "That kid is here too."


    "I know."


    Leading the way, Yan Xiaoyu, dressed in a moon-white robe, glanced at Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu in front of the Imperial Academy, a cold light flashing in his eyes.


    "That fish is here."


    In front of the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye also noticed the strong men of the Divine Temple walking towards them, and the smile on his face immediately faded as he said softly.


    "Okay."


    Bai Wangyu nodded and said, "It''s expected."


    "Bai Wangyu, Li Ziye, see you in the tower."


    As they passed each other, Yan Xiaoyu stopped, said indifferently, and then continued to walk forward.


    Behind them, Li Ziye looked at the backs of the people from the Divine Temple and said softly, "Old Bai, do you think the experts from the Divine Temple above the third realm will also follow in?"


    "No."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head and said, "The experts above the third realm can''t enter the Flameheart Tower at all. You can rest assured, Brother Li."


    "That''s good."


    Li Ziye breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, there are restrictions on cultivation levels. Otherwise, if some experts from the Divine Temple above the third realm were to sneak in, he would be in trouble.


    "Let''s go, let''s go in too."


    Bai Wangyu said, walking towards the Imperial Academy.


    "Okay."


    Li Ziye nodded and followed.


    In the center of the Imperial Academy, the Flameheart Tower stands tall, an eighteen-story tower that reaches into the sky.


    As the Flameheart Tower is about to open, people from all sides gather, but most of them are disciples of the Imperial Academy dressed in Confucian robes.


    "Senior Brother!"


    In front of the tower, many disciples of the Imperial Academy saw Bai Wangyu and respectfully saluted, making way for him.


    "Old Bai, I didn''t expect your Senior Brother to be so prestigious."


    Li Ziye followed beside Bai Wangyu, looking at the Confucian disciples who were saluting and making way, and said softly.


    "False reputation." Bai Wangyu smiled lightly and said.


    "Tsk, you''re out of breath even when I call you fat," Li Ziye sneered.


    "Brother Li, you must remember that even if you reach the top floor, it''s only the beginning of the test. The real challenge is how to pass the test of the Confucian Scholar," Bai Wangyu said, looking at the Flameheart Tower in front of them with a serious tone.


    "The Confucian Scholar is on the top?" Li Ziye asked puzzled.


    "I''m not sure."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head and said, "But when you reach the top floor of the Flameheart Tower, there will definitely be another test. What this test is, no one knows. This is also the key to whether you can inscribe your name on the Heavenly Book."


    "Given our relationship, do you think the Confucian Scholar will fix the match?" Li Ziye said something shocking.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man beside him as if he were an idiot and said, "If my face is worth that much, would I still need Brother Li to help with inscribing my name?"


    Li Ziye scratched his head and smiled awkwardly at the words, "You''re right."


    "Brother Li, rest assured, if possible, I will do my best to help you block a few competitors," Bai Wangyu encouraged at the right time."May the heavens bless you, Lao Bai, you must stop that fish at all costs," Li Ziye prayed.


    "It''s all up to luck," Bai Wangyu replied, his gaze fixed on the Burning Heart Tower ahead, the time was almost here.


    "Boom!"


    Before they could gather their thoughts, the stone door in front of the Burning Heart Tower suddenly rumbled and then slowly opened, emitting an ancient aura that was truly awe-inspiring.


    "It''s starting!"


    Before the Burning Heart Tower, everyone''s expressions were filled with excitement.


    "Brother Li, let''s go!"


    Bai Wangyu spoke with a serious tone.


    Li Ziye nodded and immediately followed the little red-capped girl towards the tower.


    "Divine Child, I leave it to you!"


    Not far away, the Divine Temple''s Archbishop Liu Rongn¨¹ looked at the Divine Child in front of her with a solemn expression.


    "Rest assured, Archbishop Rongn¨¹."


    Yan Xiaoyu nodded without any hesitation and stepped into the Burning Heart Tower.


    At this moment, in front of the tower, countless young powerhouses entered, all vying for this hard-earned opportunity.


    Just as Li Ziye entered the Burning Heart Tower, a woman in a plum-white dress walked up in front of the tower, her stunning beauty drawing the attention of everyone present.


    "Qin E''nuo!"


    Among the powerful figures of the Divine Temple, Archbishop Liu Rongn¨¹''s expression darkened as she saw the newcomer, this woman was indeed from the Imperial Academy.


    Ignoring Liu Rongn¨¹''s muttering, Qin E''nuo focused on the Burning Heart Tower ahead, her eyes filled with determination.


    Little one, this time, it''s up to you!


    As long as you can pass this test, your path in martial arts will be limitless in the future.


    Inside the Burning Heart Tower, as soon as everyone entered, the world around them immediately changed.


    "Lao Bai! Little Red Cap! Bai Wangyu!"


    Li Ziye looked at the misty world around him and called out.


    Where did the little red cap go?


    Similarly, in different parts of the tower, everyone was separated, shrouded in mist, making it difficult to see the way forward.


    "Is this the small world of the Burning Heart Tower?"


    In a corner of the tower, Yan Xiaoyu gazed at the surrounding mist, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    "Swoosh!"


    At that moment, not far away, a sword energy came rushing through the air, heading straight for Yan Xiaoyu.


    "Hmm?"


    Yan Xiaoyu sensed it and his expression turned serious, dispersing the sword energy with a palm, saying coldly, "Who goes there?"


    "Confucian School, Bai Wangyu!"


    At this moment, a figure in a white Confucian robe walked out from the mist, looking at the Divine Child of the Heavenly Oracle Hall with a smile, "Indeed, you are the Divine Child, Brother Li''s luck seems to be quite good."


    "It''s you!"


    Yan Xiaoyu''s expression darkened as he saw the newcomer, "Are you going to fight me now? Don''t forget, the test has just begun, if we fight here, we will definitely be overtaken by others."


    "The Divine Child speaks the truth, but I don''t care."


    With those words, Bai Wangyu drew his sword, and a powerful aura surged around him, the ancient sword''s edge reappearing.


    Seeing this, Yan Xiaoyu''s expression became serious, and without underestimating his opponent, he activated two divine techniques at the same time.


    In an instant, the two of them moved at the same time.


    With a loud bang, their palms and swords clashed, and a powerful surge of genuine qi erupted, dispersing the surrounding mist with a fierce wind.


    No one had expected that at the beginning of the Burning Heart Tower, the two strongest individuals would officially clash, and the aftermath of their battle was deafening.


    Far away, the young powerhouses who had entered the Burning Heart Tower felt the tremendous aura emanating from a certain direction, and they all avoided it, not wanting to be affected by this intense battle.


    Although no one knew who the two fighting individuals were, the intensity of their genuine qi was not something to be trifled with.


    "Someone''s already fighting so soon?"


    In the distance, Li Ziye also felt the genuine qi fluctuations in a certain direction of the Burning Heart Tower, feeling surprised.


    They''re fighting!


    It''s best if they both end up injured and get sent out, leaving only him.


    Just as Li Ziye was having unrealistic thoughts, a powerful palm force came through the air, directly striking someone who was still daydreaming.


    "Despicable!"


    Li Ziye snapped back to reality, his expression changing slightly as he swiftly blocked the attack with his sword.


    With a loud impact, Li Ziye took a half step back, looking at the young man who was approaching through the mist, his expression slightly stunned.


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    The Confucian robe, that must be someone from the Imperial Academy, right?


    "Are you from the Confucian School?" Li Ziye asked, on guard.


    "Yes!" the young man nodded.


    "I''m friends with your senior brother, so how about we part ways for now and not fight?" Li Ziye suggested.


    The young man hesitated, "Since this is a test, we will eventually have to fight. Avoiding battle would be unbecoming of a disciple of the Confucian School." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s not avoiding battle, it''s strategically choosing the right time to make a move."


    Li Ziye continued to persuade, "Look, there are so many people in the tower, you can''t possibly fight everyone you meet. Even if you''re powerful, you can''t defeat everyone on your own. If you want to win the opportunity to inscribe your name in the Heavenly Book, you must learn to pick and choose. For example, an opponent of my level is obviously not much different from your senior brother. Why suffer needlessly and waste time?"


    "Good point."


    The young man nodded and said, "Thank you for the advice, we''ll meet again."


    With that, the young man bowed and left.


    "..."


    Seeing this, Li Ziye breathed a sigh of relief, his face filled with speechless expression.He who stays near vermilion gets stained red; he who stays near ink gets stained black. This is the Little Red Riding Hood who just arrived at Li Garden, so incredibly easy to hoodwink!

 Chapter 66 – Cheating?

    Li Ziye used his eloquence to deceive an opponent and carefully continued to search for the next level of the Burning Heart Tower.


    The Burning Heart Tower had a Confucian secret array, with a world in each layer, incredibly mysterious.


    In the tower, the sounds of battle could be heard from various positions, indicating that more and more young powerhouses were encountering each other and engaging in fierce fights.


    At this time, even disciples of the Imperial Academy were competitors and did not need to show any mercy to each other.


    Most of the young powerhouses who realized that their opponents were difficult to deal with chose to temporarily cease fighting, not wanting to waste too much time.


    Except for Bai Wangyu and Yan Xiaoyu.


    When you''re just trying to make great content at .


    Bai Wangyu was determined to hold back the Divine Child of the Temple of the Heavenly Edict, using various Confucian skills to create a fierce battle.


    Yan Xiaoyu, who did not want to engage in battle with Bai Wangyu, was increasingly frustrated and tried to find an opportunity to escape.


    However, Bai Wangyu saw through Yan Xiaoyu''s intentions and intensified his attacks, using various Confucian skills to drag out the Divine Child of the Temple of the Heavenly Edict.


    "Are you crazy, Bai Wangyu!"


    Yan Xiaoyu was infuriated and tried to block Bai Wangyu''s attacks while persuading him, "We can''t determine a winner here. If you want to fight, we can do it outside."


    "Why wait until we''re outside? We can fight here just as well!"


    Bai Wangyu seemed to misunderstand Yan Xiaoyu''s words and responded with a smile, attacking with great vigor, determined to draw out the Divine Child of the Temple of the Heavenly Edict.


    "Fool!"


    Yan Xiaoyu cursed angrily and continued to fight and retreat. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Second floor, haha!"


    At this moment, Li Ziye was the first to discover the entrance to the second floor and hurriedly went there.


    "Someone has reached the second floor!"


    Outside the tower, the onlookers saw the second floor of the Burning Heart Tower light up and exclaimed in surprise.


    "Who could it be?"


    They began to speculate.


    Was it Bai Wangyu of the Confucian School, or Yan Xiaoyu of the Divine Temple?


    However, it could also be someone else, as strength was important, but luck was equally necessary in the Burning Heart Tower.


    After Li Ziye reached the second floor, he felt that the mist had decreased slightly, making it easier to see.


    "Let''s hurry, or we might get into another fight if others find us."


    Li Ziye muttered to himself and quickly left to find the entrance to the next level.


    Shortly after Li Ziye reached the second floor, others also found the entrance and came up.


    Soon, more and more people reached the second floor, and with the reduced mist, more people started fighting.


    "They''re all so impulsive."


    Li Ziye listened to the sounds of battle behind him and shook his head helplessly.


    Fortunately, he was fast and was not caught by these belligerent people.


    "Third floor, the third floor is lit up!"


    Not long after, the people outside the tower saw the third floor of the Burning Heart Tower light up and were shocked.


    "How could this be so fast?"


    The people outside the tower were puzzled.


    It was said that the Burning Heart Tower had a series of mazes inside, making it impossible to discern the direction once inside.


    "This is the east, the entrance to the second floor was in the south, and the entrance to the third floor is in the west. There''s no entrance here, so the entrance to the next level is likely to be in the north."


    On the third floor, Li Ziye looked at his compass and headed straight to the north.


    Thankfully, he was prepared!


    These belligerent people wouldn''t know how capable he was without some high-tech gadgets to play with!


    "Fourth floor!"


    Soon, the people outside the tower exclaimed again. Everyone was shocked, showing disbelief on their faces.


    Too fast!


    Even the former Temple Master of the Heavenly Edict could not have been this fast.


    "Fifth floor!"


    "Damn, the sixth floor!"


    "Who is this person? They''re too fast!"


    "Cheating, it must be cheating!"


    "Cheating my ass, who can cheat under the eyes of the Confucian Scholar."


    "Why are you swearing? What''s wrong with me saying cheating!"


    "I''m from the Confucian School. No one dares to cheat on our turf. You''re insulting the Confucian Scholar by saying that!"


    "Stop arguing, look, it''s the seventh floor."


    "No, it''s already the eighth floor. My god, who is this!"


    "Ninth floor, ninth floor, damn, it''s the tenth floor. Are my eyes playing tricks on me!"


    Outside the Burning Heart Tower, exclamations rang out one after another as everyone''s eyes were fixed on the tower, witnessing the miraculous speed.


    Inside the Burning Heart Tower, Li Ziye climbed the floors, panting and almost unable to move.


    I''m so tired!


    This tower is strange. The higher I go, the more my Genuine Qi is suppressed, and my body becomes heavier. But I haven''t felt any influence from the Heart Demon.


    "Has he stopped?"


    Outside the tower, the people saw that the eleventh floor had not lit up and looked at each other in confusion.


    "Is he trapped by the Heart Demon?"


    "It''s possible. The higher you go in the Burning Heart Tower, the stronger the influence of the Heart Demon. No matter how powerful he is, he can''t be unaffected all the time."


    The people speculated and comforted themselves.However, what no one knew was that Li Ziye wasn''t troubled by any inner demons; he was simply too exhausted to climb any further and had stopped to rest.


    "Bang!"


    Just then, on the fourth floor of the Burning Heart Tower, a streak of light flashed, and immediately a figure was ejected, crashing to the ground outside the tower.


    "Someone has been eliminated!"


    The crowd exclaimed in surprise upon seeing this.


    "Bang!"


    But before their words could settle, another figure was thrown out of the Burning Heart Tower, slapping onto the ground like an Indian flying disc.


    "Another one!"


    In the time that followed, in front of the Burning Heart Tower, figures were ejected one after another, falling to the ground as if dumplings were being dropped into boiling water.


    "The eleventh floor, the eleventh floor is lit up!"


    Suddenly, the eleventh floor of the Burning Heart Tower lit up, shocking everyone present.


    "The twelfth floor!"


    "The thirteenth floor!"


    "The fourteenth floor!"


    "The fifteenth floor now, damn, wasn''t that person supposed to be trapped by inner demons? What''s going on, why are they moving even faster now!"


    "I have no idea, today is really full of strange occurrences, there''s always something odd each year, but this year it''s particularly frequent!"


    "They''ve stopped again, they''ve stopped again!"


    "It must be the inner demons this time!"


    Outside the tower, the onlookers were more excited than the next, feeling envious upon seeing someone performing so outstandingly, all of them hoping that this person would stop.


    "Yes, it must be the inner demons!"


    The chorus of agreement grew louder, everyone craning their necks to look up at the fifteenth floor of the Burning Heart Tower, their necks starting to ache from the strain.


    On the fifteenth floor of the Burning Heart Tower, Li Ziye lay sprawled on the steps like a dead dog, too tired to even crawl.


    Oh heavens, who built this damn tower, and why didn''t they install an elevator?


    This tower is too bizarre; with each floor ascended, one''s body feels heavier, and at this rate, he would surely be exhausted to death.


    Below the Burning Heart Tower, on the ninth and tenth floors, more and more people climbed up, but everyone encountered different situations, and the tests were all unique.


    Those with unstable minds even began to go mad, losing their senses, and were directly ejected by the divine script.


    As Li Ziye paused, those below began to gradually catch up.


    The eleventh floor, the twelfth floor, the thirteenth floor...


    "What''s going on, that person has been on the fifteenth floor for a long time now, haven''t they overcome their inner demons yet? If they had lost consciousness, they should have been ejected by now!"


    Outside the tower, the crowd craned their necks and waited for a long time, but there was still no movement from the fifteenth floor, which made them somewhat curious.


    "What on earth is happening? It''s so frustrating not being able to see!"


    At this moment, everyone was scratching their heads in anxiety, not out of concern for the person, but rather wanting to know what was happening.


    "The sixteenth floor, he''s moved, he''s finally moved!"


    Just then, exclamations rang out once more as the sixteenth floor of the Burning Heart Tower lit up, exciting the crowd outside once again.


    If he didn''t move soon, they would have thought the person was dead.


    "Temple Master Rongn¨¹, could it be the Divine Child?"


    Not far away, a powerhouse from the Divine Temple looked up at the upper levels of the Burning Heart Tower and asked in a solemn voice.


    "It''s unlikely."


    Liu Rongn¨¹ shook her head with a grave expression, "The Temple Master once said that with the Divine Child''s strength, it would take at least five hours to ascend this Burning Heart Tower. It''s only been three hours now, and that person has already reached the sixteenth floor; it shouldn''t be the Divine Child."


    "Could it be Bai Wangyu from the Confucian School?"


    The powerhouse from the Divine Temple side expressed concern; if someone from the Confucian School took the lead, the Divine Temple''s plans might very well fail.


    "It doesn''t seem like it."


    Liu Rongn¨¹ shook her head again, "Bai Wangyu''s strength is comparable to the Divine Child''s; it''s probably not him either."


    "Then who could it be? Inside the Burning Heart Tower, the strongest should be the Divine Child and Bai Wangyu. If it''s not them, who else could it be?" the powerhouse from the Divine Temple asked, puzzled.


    "I''m not sure at the moment."


    Liu Rongn¨¹ spoke solemnly, her gaze shifting towards Qin E''nuo, who stood quietly not far away. The presence of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal here gave her a very bad premonition.


    It could very well be that the person who has now reached the sixteenth floor is that direct descendant of the Li Family.


    "The seventeenth floor!"


    At that moment, the crowd suddenly exclaimed, each one of them shocked beyond belief.


    Only one more floor to go!


    Upon hearing this, Liu Rongn¨¹ immediately withdrew her gaze and looked upwards.


    She saw the light on the penultimate floor of the Burning Heart Tower, just one step away from the last floor.


    This is bad!


    Liu Rongn¨¹''s expression darkened; if this person were to reach the top first, the Divine Temple''s plans would be completely disrupted.


    Divine Child, what on earth are you doing!


    "Bai Wangyu, you madman!"


    On the fifth floor of the Burning Heart Tower, Yan Xiaoyu''s voice rang out in extreme anger, having been entangled by the senior brother of the Confucian School for far too long, wasting too much time.


    "You forced my hand!"


    Seeing that time was running out, Yan Xiaoyu could no longer hesitate. With a roar of anger, he no longer suppressed his cultivation, unleashing his full combat power, and a vast expanse of white divine light soared into the sky.


    Ahead, Bai Wangyu saw this and his eyes narrowed slightly. He no longer held back his moves, holding his sword horizontally in front of him, his fingers passing over the blade as a surge of righteous energy burst forth like a raging wave.

 Chapter 67 – A gentleman does not launch a sneak attack!

    At the fifth level of the Burning Heart Tower, the raging waves surged, and in order to escape, Yan Xiaoyu no longer suppressed his cultivation, unleashing his full strength.


    A vast white divine light soared into the sky, as Yan Xiaoyu displayed the Divine Temple''s secret technique, an astonishing pressure surged and roared.


    Facing the Divine Child who was about to fight to the death, Bai Wangyu did not dare to be careless, pointing his sword and unleashing his full strength as well.


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    Righteous spirit surged, empowering the Taiyi Ancient Sword, a majestic sword pressure emerged.


    "Divine Oracle of Light!"


    "The Wind of a Gentleman!"


    With a deep shout, two astonishing forces collided, and instantly, the fierce wind dispersed the mist on the entire fifth floor.


    Bai Wangyu and Yan Xiaoyu were both impacted by the residual force, their mouths stained with blood, and they both took several steps back.


    Seizing the opportunity, Yan Xiaoyu swept his gaze across the entire fifth floor, and upon seeing the entrance to the next level, he stepped forward and swiftly moved past it.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu did not hesitate and followed suit.


    On the sixth level, Yan Xiaoyu disappeared into the mist.


    Bai Wangyu caught up, but could no longer find any trace of him.


    "He''s really fast."


    Bai Wangyu sheathed his sword and did not rush to pursue him again.


    After delaying the Divine Child for so long, it was probably enough.


    And, just now, Yan Xiaoyu had disregarded the disturbance of the heart demon and unleashed his full strength, presumably suffering a considerable backlash.


    He just didn''t know where Brother Li had gone.


    "Phew!"


    Suddenly, Bai Wangyu stumbled and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    The backlash of the heart demon was unavoidable. Even with his strength as a senior disciple of the Confucian School, he had suffered a serious injury.


    "This time, I''ve really devoted all my energies."


    Bai Wangyu gave a bitter smile and wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth.


    If Brother Li couldn''t seize the opportunity to carve his name on the Heavenly Book, he would be at a great loss.


    Come on, get some spirit!


    "I''m so tired, I''m so tired!"


    On the seventeenth level, Li Ziye lay on the stone steps, panting heavily, his body soaked with sweat, and he didn''t even want to move a finger.


    Wasn''t there supposed to be a heart demon? What kind of nonsense heart demon was that? This was just a test of physical endurance!


    If he had known, he would have exercised more.


    "Why did he stop again?"


    Outside the Burning Heart Tower, the onlookers looked up anxiously.


    Below the seventeenth level, as the mist diminished, the young generation of strong cultivators began to search for the entrance to the next level at an increasingly faster pace, but they dared not exert their full strength due to the heart demon.


    However, even so, the young strong cultivators gradually caught up.


    Of course, those who could persist until now were almost all the cream of the crop among the young generation. Those with slightly insufficient strength or willpower had already been expelled from the tower.


    If Li Ziye hadn''t run fast enough and arrived ahead of everyone else, he might have been kicked out long ago.


    On the stone steps leading to the eighteenth level, Li Ziye tried to climb up, but he couldn''t move at all, as if his whole body was being crushed by Mount Tai.


    At the top of the Burning Heart Tower, an old figure sat quietly at a table, sipping tea. One hand was raised, and an invisible force spread out, as if pressing down on someone like Mount Tai.


    This kid couldn''t be allowed to come up so easily.


    The mist was useless to him, and the heart demon was also useless to him. It was truly inconceivable.


    Could it be that this kid had nothing to fear or regret?


    "What the heck?"


    On the seventeenth level, Li Ziye struggled to move, but couldn''t budge, and couldn''t help but look puzzled.


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    He was about to reach the final level, and at such a critical moment, he couldn''t afford to mess up, otherwise, it would be a disservice to Little Red Riding Hood''s efforts!


    Below the seventeenth level, the young generation of strong cultivators exerted all their efforts to catch up, and they could see that they were about to catch up.


    "This aura!"


    Suddenly, the young strong cultivators on the fourteenth level felt the rapidly approaching aura from behind, and their expressions all changed.


    So strong!


    He was already at the peak of the Second Realm, and was not far from the Third Realm.


    In the Burning Heart Tower, there were not many cultivators with such strength.


    "It''s the Divine Child of the Temple of Heavenly Prophecy!"


    As the dissipating mist revealed a figure passing by, someone exclaimed in shock.


    "So fast!"


    Before they could react, Yan Xiaoyu''s figure passed through the mist and directly rushed towards the next level.


    "Quick, chase after him!"


    Seeing this, the young generation of strong cultivators immediately followed.


    On the fifteenth level, with obstacles in front and pursuers behind, Yan Xiaoyu and the young generation of strong cultivators gathered, and the mist on this level was almost gone. They looked at each other, ready to draw their swords.


    "Join forces to stop him!"


    On the fifteenth level, the young generation of strong cultivators saw Yan Xiaoyu, who had disregarded everything and unleashed his full strength, and immediately prepared to join forces to stop him.


    No one knew if anyone had already reached the next level, but they knew that if they couldn''t stop the Divine Child of the Temple of Heavenly Prophecy again, they would have no chance in this test.


    "Just you guys!"


    Yan Xiaoyu looked at the people blocking his way, his expression turning cold, and said, "Very well, I''ll eliminate all of you, and this Divine Child will have much less trouble."


    With that, Yan Xiaoyu let out a deep shout, and a radiant divine light emanated from him, illuminating the entire fifteenth level.


    "Divine Oracle of Light!"


    The secret technique of the Temple of Heavenly Prophecy reappeared, with an incomparably majestic might. In the fifteenth level of the Burning Heart Tower, all the young strong cultivators who rushed forward were all blown away by this extremely powerful force and suffered heavy injuries.


    "Phew!"


    After using all his strength, Yan Xiaoyu finally couldn''t suppress the backlash of the heart demon, and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Outside the Burning Heart Tower, the light flickered, and several figures fell and crashed to the ground.


    "A few more have been eliminated. It seems that there are only four people left in the tower!"


    Outside the tower, the onlookers looked up at the top of the Burning Heart Tower, their faces tense. Who would ultimately win?


    The person on the seventeenth level had been silent for a long time.


    On the fifteenth level, Bai Wangyu hurriedly arrived, and after seeing Yan Xiaoyu disappear into the entrance of the next level, he immediately followed.


    On the sixteenth level, with the mist almost completely dissipated, the entrance to the next level was faintly visible.


    Yan Xiaoyu rushed over, about to charge into the entrance of the next level, but saw a figure in a Confucian robe at the end of the mist.


    "A disciple of the Confucian School?"


    Yan Xiaoyu''s expression turned cold, not daring to delay, and continued to rush forward.


    Behind him, Bai Wangyu caught up and also hurried towards the next level.


    In a few breaths, the four people gathered on the seventeenth level.Thus, the scene took on a somewhat eerie turn.


    "Cultivating Confucianism?"


    Bai Wangyu, upon seeing the disciple from the seventeenth layer of the Confucian School, expressed his surprise, "You''re here too."


    "Eldest Senior Brother."


    Wen Xiuru greeted with a respectful bow, addressing him.


    "Brother Li, why haven''t you gone up yet?"


    At this moment, Bai Wangyu also noticed Li Ziye, who was sprawled in front of the entrance to the eighteenth layer, and asked in confusion.


    "Old Bai, you''re finally here, quick, save me, I can''t move!"


    Li Ziye, seeing his savior in the little red cap, summoned his energy and called out urgently.


    "So, they''re all acquaintances."


    Yan Xiaoyu glanced at Bai Wangyu and Li Ziye at the last layer''s entrance, his expression slightly cold, "Good, I''ll take care of you all at once."


    "Cultivator Wen, shall we join forces?"


    Bai Wangyu looked towards his junior brother and asked.


    "It''s possible."


    Wen Xiuru nodded, brandishing his sword, as his righteous Qi surged, his cultivation seemingly not much less than the other two.


    Not far away, on the stone steps, Li Ziye was shocked to see this. Wasn''t this the same person who had attacked him on the first layer?


    So powerful?


    "Bai Wangyu, Wen Xiuru, the Confucian School''s eldest and second disciples, very well, come at me together!"


    Seeing this, Yan Xiaoyu''s expression turned utterly solemn, his palms flipped, and a blazing divine light surged out.


    White surging waves, vast and mighty, facing the two strongest successors of the Confucian School, Yan Xiaoyu dared not hold back, elevating his combat power to its peak.


    In a flash, the three figures crossed paths, swords joined, battling the Divine Child of the Divine Temple.


    An intensely fierce battle ensued, with sword Qi crisscrossing and palm force shocking the world. The three, all at the peak of the Second Realm, displayed their most astonishing abilities.


    From outside the battle, Li Ziye watched this incredible fight, his eyelids twitching.


    Wasn''t it said that one''s full strength couldn''t be exerted here due to the influence of inner demons? What''s with these three, they''re too fierce!


    "Divine Oracle!"


    Facing two opponents and unable to gain the upper hand, Yan Xiaoyu, unwilling to prolong the fight, unleashed a world-shocking move, with vast divine might surging like waves, enveloping the battlefield.


    "The Gentleman''s Breeze!"


    Upon seeing this, Bai Wangyu and Wen Xiuru joined their fingers across their swords, their righteous Qi stirring, their swords sweeping through, carving a path through the tumultuous waves.


    "Boom!"


    In the earth-shattering collision, blood spurted from the corners of Yan Xiaoyu''s mouth, and two swords pierced through his body, drawing out a blinding cascade of blood.


    Even the Divine Child of the Divine Temple, facing two opponents, ultimately fell into a disadvantage.


    However, despite his severe injuries, Yan Xiaoyu''s expression did not change in the slightest, his hands grasping the arms of the two men, his pupils blazing with white light.


    "What is this?"


    Bai Wangyu and Wen Xiuru, sensing the sudden danger, both changed their expressions.


    Divine Oracle Technique!


    How could this be? Wasn''t the Divine Oracle Technique something that only great cultivators of the Fifth Realm were qualified to practice?


    "Hmm?"


    Just as Yan Xiaoyu was about to use the Divine Oracle Technique, far away in the Western Regions, within a Divine Temple, a scholar in green stood quietly, his gaze towards the east, his face showing a hint of surprise.


    Yan Xiaoyu, to be pushed to such a state!


    Who could it be?


    "Boom!"


    At that moment, above the seventeenth layer, the wind surged like waves, the thin mist furiously converging, and amidst it, thunder and lightning roared.


    "Divine Punishment!"


    With a furious shout, Yan Xiaoyu displayed the Divine Oracle Technique for the first time, and in an instant, above the three, thunder descended, tumultuous and engulfing.


    "Old Bai!"


    Seeing this from outside the battle, Li Ziye''s face showed a look of urgent anger, and in a flash, he broke free from his restraints, his figure dashing forward.


    The Pure Jun sword unsheathed, its sword Qi dazzling, tracing a brilliant streak of light within the Burning Heart Tower.


    "Fei Xian Jue, a sword to cleave the skies!"


    With anger fueling his heart, he unleashed an unrestrained sword strike, like a fiery meteor, reaching its limit in speed, and in the blink of an eye, it cut through to the center of the three''s battle.


    "Ah!"


    With a sword piercing through, blood gushed forth, and Yan Xiaoyu, looking at the long sword protruding from his chest, coughed up a mouthful of crimson blood, his face showing a look of shock.


    How could this be!


    Amidst the thunder, the figures of the three began to fade, their injuries too severe. The Heavenly Book, to preserve their lives, was about to transport them out of the tower.


    "Brother Li, a gentleman does not launch a sneak attack!"


    Before disappearing, Bai Wangyu, looking at Li Ziye behind Yan Xiaoyu, showed a gentle smile and said, "However, you did well this time!"


    Beside him, Wen Xiuru also showed a hint of a smile, nodding in acknowledgment.


    The Eldest Senior Brother was indeed the Eldest Senior Brother; the friends he made were so extraordinary. It seemed he still had much to learn.


    The next moment, outside the Burning Heart Tower, the figures of the three fell from the sky, crashing heavily to the ground, falling unconscious.

 Chapter 68 – Confucian Scholar

    The seventeenth floor of the Heartburn Tower, Li Ziye stared blankly at the empty scene in front of him, unable to come back to his senses for a while.


    Is this it?


    Is Little Red Riding Hood okay?


    What just happened? Did he stab that fish with a sword?


    Is it dead?


    Awesome!


    After a brainstorm in his mind, Li Ziye turned around and looked at the entrance of the last floor, unable to help but show excitement in his eyes.


    Stepping into the Five Realms and finally having the time to beat all the planes is finally coming!


    Thinking of this, the smile on Li Ziye''s face gradually became distorted again.


    Waited for a long time, finally waited until today!


    Outside the Heartburn Tower, when Yan Xiaoyu and the others were sent out, everyone''s expressions were shocked.


    "The Divine Child of the Tianyu Temple and the Confucian Scholar Bai Wangyu have been eliminated?"


    "And the Confucian Scholar Wenxiu, who is the second disciple of the Confucian School, is said to be not much weaker than Bai Wangyu."


    "Damn, what happened? The three strongest people have all been eliminated. Who is left in the tower now?"


    "Left, Li Ziye is still left!"


    "Li Ziye? Which Li Ziye, who is Li Ziye?"


    "Don''t you know? The legitimate son of the Li Family from Yuzhou City!"


    "The son of that nouveau riche? Is that kid so powerful? Did he eliminate Yan Xiaoyu and the others alone?"


    "It''s hard to imagine that there is still a genius who can surpass Yan Xiaoyu and Bai Wangyu under the sky."


    "Now I understand why the Meihua Immortal Sword personally rushed to Yuzhou City to take him as a disciple. He is indeed a rare talent, terrifying!"


    Outside the tower, everyone saw Yan Xiaoyu, Bai Wangyu, and the three others being eliminated, and for a while, they couldn''t accept it and discussed it.


    "Divine Child."


    On the side of the Tianyu Temple, several strong men stepped forward and rescued Yan Xiaoyu, stuffing a pill into his mouth.


    "Senior Brother."


    On the side of the Confucian School, many disciples also stepped forward to help Bai Wangyu and Wenxiu, giving them pills to take.


    In front of the tower, after the three took the pills, they woke up one after another after a short time.


    "Divine Child!"


    "Senior Brother!"


    Seeing this, the people on both sides showed a look of joy on their faces.


    "Divine Child, what exactly happened?"


    On the side of the Tianyu Temple, Liu Rongn¨¹ looked at the Divine Child who had just awakened and said in a deep voice, "With your strength, plus the divine art given to you by the Temple Master, this task should have been a sure thing. How could you be injured like this?"


    Yan Xiaoyu did not answer, and his gaze turned to Bai Wangyu on the side of the Confucian School, a touch of anger flashing across his pale face.


    Damn it!


    In front of the disciples of the Confucian School, Bai Wangyu, who had just awakened from a coma, felt the angry gaze of the Divine Child not far away and responded with a calm smile.


    "Senior Brother, is that person the legitimate son of the Li Family that you mentioned?"


    Beside him, Wenxiu, the Confucian Scholar, spoke, looking at the top of the Heartburn Tower with a calm expression.


    "Yes."


    Bai Wangyu nodded and said, "Junior Brother, are you not reconciled?"


    "No."


    Wenxiu shook his head, a smile of relief on his face, "As a Confucian Scholar entering the tower, I just wanted to see the extent of my own cultivation. Even though I have reached the seventeenth floor, that''s enough. As for whether I can carve my name in the heavenly book, it''s all up to fate."


    "Junior Brother''s temperament, Senior Brother admires."


    Bai Wangyu said softly.


    "Senior Brother is too modest."


    Wenxiu smiled and said, "From the performance of Senior Brother after entering the tower, it seems that Senior Brother has never thought of competing for the opportunity to carve his name in the heavenly book, but has always been making a wedding dress for that legitimate son of the Li Family. Compared to Senior Brother''s realm, Wenxiu is still quite different."


    "Compared to us, Brother Li needs the opportunity to carve his name in the heavenly book more. And, more than living up to expectations, I hope to see a miracle!"


    As the two were talking, on the last floor of the Heartburn Tower.


    Li Ziye walked over, and at this moment, all the pressure on him disappeared.


    However, Li Ziye still didn''t dare to be careless.


    Little Red Riding Hood once said that even if he defeated everyone and successfully reached this last floor, what awaited him was the test of the Confucian Scholar.


    The quiet last floor of the Heartburn Tower, without a sound, Li Ziye carefully looked around, afraid that something terrible would happen suddenly.


    "What, are you afraid of something?"


    At this moment, not far away, an old voice sounded, and a man appeared in the tower, holding a scripture in one hand and quietly drinking tea.


    Li Ziye was startled to see the sudden appearance of the old man, but quickly regained his composure, took a step forward, and respectfully saluted, "Junior Li Ziye, I pay my respects to the Confucian Scholar!"


    The identity of the person who can appear here is self-evident.


    The current head of the Imperial Academy, Confucian Scholar Kong Qiu!


    "I didn''t expect that you really did it, the kid from the Li Family, not simple."


    Kong Qiu put down the scripture in his hand, showing a calm face, and asked, "The old man is very curious, did you ever think before this that you would be standing here?"


    "I did." Li Ziye grinned.


    "Oh?"


    Kong Qiu was slightly surprised and said, "With so many young talents and the unparalleled arrogance of Yan Xiaoyu, where did your confidence come from?"


    "If a person has no dreams, what''s the difference between them and a salted fish."


    Li Ziye said matter-of-factly, "Besides, I''m not bad."


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    Kong Qiu laughed heartily and said, "The confidence you have, there really is no one else in the world like it."


    "Confucian Scholar is too kind. I am unworthy of such praise."Li Ziye rarely humbled himself and said, "Please sit."


    "Thank you, Confucian Scholar," Li Ziye replied without any politeness, sitting across from the Confucian Scholar and picking up the tea that had been poured on the table, drinking it all in one gulp.


    I''m so thirsty!


    I''ve been busy all day and haven''t even had a sip of water.


    Kong Qiu looked at the young man in front of him, who showed no restraint, and smiled, "In the past hundred years, except for the current emperor, you are the first person to dare to sit in front of me and drink tea."


    Li Ziye was taken aback and looked at the tea cup in his hand. He hadn''t committed any taboos by just drinking a cup of tea, had he?


    "Don''t overthink it," Kong Qiu smiled, "They just dare not."


    Li Ziye smiled awkwardly and explained, "I was just really thirsty."


    "According to Forgetful Language, you have always wanted to see me. Is there something you want to ask?" Kong Qiu said.


    "Yes!" Li Ziye quickly put down the tea cup and asked, "Where is my fairy master?"


    "Right here in the Imperial Academy."


    Kong Qiu replied truthfully, "The medicinal king that the Imperial Academy sent to Li Garden was exchanged by the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal for a year of time. Without that medicinal king, you would not have been able to stab Yan Xiaoyu with that sword, and of course, you would not be standing here today. So, everything has a cause."


    Li Ziye was shocked to hear this and clenched the tea cup tightly in his hand. No wonder the fairy master had not come to find him.


    So that''s how it is!


    A quick look at " will leave you more fulfilled.


    "In addition, I promised the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal to do something for you. Tell me, as long as it is within my ability, I will fulfill it for you," Kong Qiu said.


    "I want the Confucian Scholar to free my fairy master," Li Ziye said without hesitation.


    "Oh?"


    Kong Qiu was slightly surprised and said, "Think carefully. I rarely make promises to others. If you miss this opportunity, perhaps there will be no more."


    "I know."


    Li Ziye responded lightly, but he had no intention of changing his mind, "I just want the Confucian Scholar to free my fairy master."


    "Heh."


    Kong Qiu chuckled and looked at the woman outside the tower, saying, "Your guess was indeed correct."


    Outside the tower, Qin E''nuo''s eyes flashed with light, "Confucian Scholar, please keep your promise."


    "As you wish," Kong Qiu nodded in agreement.


    "Who is the Confucian Scholar talking to?"


    Li Ziye looked around and felt a little creepy.


    "He''s talking to your master."


    Kong Qiu said calmly, "Change your request. Your master doesn''t want you to interfere, and her staying in the Imperial Academy may not be a bad thing."


    "My fairy master doesn''t want me to interfere?"


    Li Ziye was taken aback and a little anxious, "Why?"


    "Her cultivation has reached a bottleneck. Perhaps she can find her own path in the Imperial Academy," Kong Qiu said truthfully, "Change your request, anything is possible."


    Li Ziye hesitated for a moment and said, "Then, Confucian Scholar, will there be any more tests to come?"


    "No."


    Kong Qiu shook his head, "After you finish talking to me, you can carve your name on the Heavenly Book."


    "No more?"


    Li Ziye was surprised, "Little Red Riding Hood said that the Confucian Scholar''s test was actually the most difficult."


    "Little Red Riding Hood?"


    Kong Qiu was taken aback, then understood and smiled, "Are you talking about Forgetful Language? He''s not wrong. If I''m not willing, do you have a chance to go to the Heavenly Book? In fact, the so-called test is just to see if I''m happy or not."


    "Damn!"


    Li Ziye couldn''t help but spit out the fragrance after hearing this.


    Too hasty!


    "After carving your name on the Heavenly Book, can I open the Eight Meridians and step into the Five Realms?" Li Ziye hurriedly asked.


    "Maybe."


    Kong Qiu shook his head, "Everyone''s destiny is different. It depends on luck, kid, state your request."


    "Confucian Scholar, can I save this request for later and bring it up again in the future?"


    Li Ziye asked tentatively. He was very clear about the weight of the Confucian Scholar''s promise. It would be more valuable to save it for later than to use it now.


    "You greedy kid."


    Kong Qiu saw through the young man''s thoughts at a glance, but did not refuse. He smiled and said, "Alright, go up. The time to open the Heavenly Book is limited. We''ll talk about other things after you carve your name."


    "Thank you, Confucian Scholar!"


    Li Ziye''s face showed joy, and he respectfully bowed before looking up at the top of the tower, feeling excited.


    Whether or not I can achieve success in one go depends on today.


    Kong Qiu waved his hand, and righteous qi surged, sending him on his way.


    The next moment, Li Ziye''s body rose up and slowly flew towards the top of the tower.


    "He''s coming out, he''s coming out!"


    Outside the tower, the onlookers were excited to see this.


    On top of the tower, the righteous qi was surging, the Heavenly Book was floating, and the ancient and mysterious aura made it difficult to see clearly.


    "Is this the Heavenly Book?"


    Li Ziye stood on the tower and looked at the stone tablet in front of him. After a moment, his eyes narrowed sharply.


    On the Heavenly Book, three names were clearly engraved from top to bottom.


    Kong Qiu, Li Taibai, Fu Jinglun!


    What was unbelievable was that the Confucian Scholar''s name was at the top.


    "How is this possible?"Li Ziye was profoundly shaken. Li Taibai was the name of the first Sword God, yet the name of the Confucian Scholar existed even before the first Sword God?


    Could it be that the Confucian Scholar has lived for at least a thousand years!

 Chapter 69 – Carved out some loneliness?

    On the top of the Heartburn Tower, Li Ziye gazed at the celestial book, his heart churning.


    The Confucian Scholar has lived for over a thousand years?


    The first generation Sword God, Li Taibai, is already dead, so how is the Confucian Scholar still alive?


    Can mortals really live for a thousand years?


    Envy!


    Can he also live for so long?


    Or should he ask the Confucian Scholar for tips on maintenance?


    Lost in thought, Li Ziye once again drifted off track out of habit.


    "What is that kid doing? Is he ever going to start carving?!"


    Below, the crowd looked up, their necks aching, complaining.


    Behind the crowd, Qin E''nuo clenched her delicate hands, gritting her teeth, wishing she could go up and slap the guy to death.


    It''s already this late, and he''s daydreaming again!


    "Brother Li, really."


    In front of the Confucian School''s disciples, Bai Wangyu saw the situation above and couldn''t help but smile bitterly. This kid is really something else!


    "Senior Brother, what is he doing?"


    Beside him, a Confucian Scholar named Wenxiu showed a curious expression and asked.


    "He''s probably daydreaming."


    Bai Wangyu helplessly said, "It''s an old habit of his."


    "Heh."


    Wenxiu chuckled lightly and said, "At this time, with so many people watching, the young master of the Li Family is indeed extraordinary."


    "Li Family kid, are you going to start carving or not?!"


    At this moment, someone among the onlookers finally couldn''t wait any longer and couldn''t help but shout impatiently.


    On the Heartburn Tower, Li Ziye was startled by the person below, and he looked down and retorted, "It''s none of your damn business whether I carve or not."


    "Damn it!"


    The person being scolded also had a bad temper and shouted angrily, "You''re too arrogant, come down and fight me!"


    Li Ziye''s face also showed a look of anger and said, "I won''t come down, bite me!"


    The people around looked at the two quarreling, each with a strange expression on their faces.


    Truly, bizarre!


    Not far away, the experts from the Divine Temple also had unpleasant expressions when they saw this scene.


    They actually lost to this kind of idiot twice in a row?


    Similarly, the disciples of the Confucian School shook their heads in frustration.


    It''s a disgrace to the Confucian way!


    "Senior Brother, I admire you, I admire you!"


    Wenxiu recovered from his shock and said with a look of admiration.


    The eldest senior brother of the Confucian School, who always adheres to etiquette, can actually get along with the young master of the Li Family for so long. The cultivation of the eldest senior brother is indeed not something ordinary people can compare to.


    "Heh heh."


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu also smiled awkwardly, but the tightly clenched hands exposed his true thoughts.


    This idiot, it''s already so late, and he''s still arguing with people!


    "Plum Blossom Sword Immortal."


    Finally, an instructor from the Confucian School couldn''t bear to watch any longer, walked up to Qin E''nuo, and said with an embarrassed expression, "Do you think we should stop this?"


    "Mm."


    Qin E''nuo responded indifferently, her expression indifferent, revealing nothing of what she was thinking.


    "Clang!"


    Frost was unsheathed, and the sword energy surged. In the shocked gazes of the crowd, the Fairy slashed directly at Li Ziye in front of the celestial book.


    "Damn it, who?!"


    Li Ziye sensed it and quickly dodged.


    Swish, the sword energy passed by his ear, and a strand of hair fell, drifting away with the wind.


    "You, Fairy Master."


    Li Ziye looked over with an angry expression, about to scold, but then he saw the familiar beautiful figure and immediately put on a brilliant smile.


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.


    "Don''t say another word. If you do, the next strike will cost you something." Qin E''nuo said coldly.


    "Hiss."


    Li Ziye sucked in a breath of cold air at her words, then quickly nodded and said, "Fairy Master, spare me, I know I was wrong."


    In front of the tower, the onlookers also felt a chill down their spines at the way the master and disciple were interacting.


    If that sword just now had been a little off, Li Ziye would have been done for.


    Both the master and disciple are truly extraordinary!


    On the Heartburn Tower, after being reprimanded by Qin E''nuo, Li Ziye finally regained his composure, looked at the celestial book in front of him, and reached out to touch it. Suddenly, he realized that he didn''t know how to carve.


    Use a pen?


    Or a sword?


    So, with everyone watching, Li Ziye''s gaze looked down again, grinned, and said, "Fairy Master, how do I carve again?!"


    "Damn it, don''t stop me, I''m going up there to kill him!"


    At this moment, everyone outside the tower was boiling, and the hot-tempered man who had been arguing with Li Ziye earlier was even trying to climb up to attack him.


    "Big brother, calm down!"


    Seeing this, the people behind hurriedly reached out to stop him and advised, "This is the Confucian School''s territory, and private fighting is not allowed!"


    Not far away, Qin E''nuo, who transcends the ordinary, was also heaving with anger, her hand gripping the sword, her veins bulging.


    She really wanted to kill this idiot with one strike!


    In front of the Confucian School''s disciples, Bai Wangyu turned around to look at the about-to-go-wild Plum Blossom Sword Immortal, then looked up at the top of the tower and shouted, "Use Genuine Qi, Genuine Qi!" S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The young master of the Li Family is extraordinary, truly extraordinary!"


    Beside him, Wenxiu couldn''t help but laugh, repeatedly pulling at his wound, causing him to grimace in pain.


    Behind him, the disciples of the Confucian School felt so ashamed that they almost wanted to leave this place of trouble. How could their eldest and second senior brothers lose to this kind of guy!


    "You should have said that earlier!"


    On the Heartburn Tower, Li Ziye heard Little Red Riding Hood''s reminder and muttered, then condensed his Qi into his fingers and slashed towards the stone tablet in front of him.


    Huh, it really works?


    The Qi cut through the stone tablet, and stone chips flew everywhere, and the character "Li" appeared.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye continued to write.


    "Li, Zi, Ye!"


    With unprecedented focus, Li Ziye exerted all his strength, striving to carve his name neatly for future generations to admire.


    However, Li Ziye overestimated his ability to carve.


    In the end, the three characters he carved were crooked and almost not on the same line.


    Among the four names on the celestial book, Li Ziye''s three characters were the ugliest.


    "It''s still okay, it''s still okay."


    Li Ziye wiped the sweat from his forehead and comforted himself.


    "Is he finished carving?"


    The onlookers below asked curiously.


    "It looks like he''s finished."


    Someone with a keen eye saw that Li Ziye had already put his hand down and said.


    "Why isn''t there any reaction?"


    "I don''t know, let''s wait a bit longer."


    The crowd discussed, waiting for the legendary commotion.


    In front of the celestial book, Li Ziye was also waiting, his face filled with anticipation.Eight meridians fully open, a single step into the Five Realms, hurry!


    "Boom!"


    Under the expectant gazes of the crowd, the heavenly tome finally seemed to recognize those three characters and began to roar to life.


    The boundless Genuine Qi surged like an endless ocean, obscuring the entire sky.


    "Damn it, what a commotion!"


    Below, the crowd was shocked by this astonishing scene.


    It seemed even more tumultuous than when Fu Jinglun stepped into the Five Realms.


    "Brother Li, truly a heaven-sent genius!"


    In front of the Confucian School disciples, Bai Wangyu finally breathed a sigh of relief upon witnessing this scene, deliberately raising his voice in praise.


    Thankfully, it finally looked impressive. If there had been another problem, his face as the eldest disciple of the Confucian School would have been completely lost.


    Beside him, Wen Xiuru glanced at his senior brother, seemingly understanding the latter''s thoughts, and smiled gently.


    It seemed that even the senior brother was afraid.


    "Boom!"


    Under the shocked gazes of the crowd, the commotion atop the Burning Heart Tower continued to grow. Amidst the heaven-covering Genuine Qi, myriad rays of light shone, and mysterious sounds seemed to echo, reverberating between heaven and earth.


    "Heaven and Earth bear witness!"


    At this moment, the crowd was even more excited. According to legend, such a phenomenon only appeared when a treasure was born or someone was proving the Dao.


    "Could this kid be stepping into the Five Realms?"


    The crowd looked enviously at the youth in the sky, what a tremendous opportunity!


    In front of the heavenly tome, Li Ziye was startled by the astonishing scene above, but soon his face revealed an arrogant and twisted smile. He spread his arms, ready to welcome this incoming opportunity!


    "Come on, don''t pity me, I can take it."


    Let the storm come more violently, I am willing to endure the madness of stepping into the Five Realms!


    "Boom!"


    The heavenly tome seemed to hear Li Ziye''s voice, and amidst its violent trembling, an infinite amount of Genuine Qi poured into his body.


    The crowd watched as Li Ziye was enveloped by Genuine Qi, and a pained grunt followed.


    Genuine Qi broke through the meridians, and then, the vast power quickly repaired the ruptured meridians. Visibly, the fourth meridian was rapidly reconstructed at an incredible speed.


    Immediately after, Genuine Qi surged through the four major meridians, like a torrent crashing towards the second sealed Divine Hidden Technique.


    Boom!


    With a loud noise, the second Divine Hidden Technique opened in response!


    Breakthrough!


    Below, the crowd saw this and their expressions revealed shock; indeed, a breakthrough had occurred!


    But atop the Burning Heart Tower, Li Ziye''s chest, where the second Divine Hidden Technique burst forth with dazzling light, the thunderous roar echoed, deafening.


    "Wait, this kid just opened the second Divine Hidden Technique?"


    In front of the Burning Heart Tower, the onlookers suddenly realized something and exclaimed in surprise.


    "Does that mean he was only at the First Realm before?"


    "Damn it, then how did he defeat Yan Xiaoyu and the others?"


    "Insider dealings!"


    "Cheating!"


    Below, the crowd became angry again, unable to believe this outcome.


    Atop the Burning Heart Tower, after the breakthrough, Li Ziye, excited yet vigilant, didn''t forget to look down at the crowd and mockingly said with an arrogant face, "Country bumpkins!"


    "I can''t stand it anymore, I''m going to kill him!"


    A hot-tempered man exploded with anger, rolling up his sleeves, ready to go up.


    "Calm down, big brother, he''s still breaking through, you might not be able to beat him!"


    The people behind hurriedly held him back.


    Although they also wanted to kill this kid, the current situation suggested that this guy might ascend to the heavens in one step, surpassing all of them in strength.


    "Boom!"


    While the crowd was indignant, the heavenly tome atop the Burning Heart Tower vibrated once more, the pervasive Genuine Qi quickly converged, and after a few breaths, everything returned to calm.


    "What?"


    Li Ziye was stunned.


    The onlookers below were also stunned.


    Is it over? Just like that?


    Such thunderous noise, such a terrifying scene, and in the end, this?


    Then, the crowd below gradually recovered from their shock, disbelief, and exchanged glances, soon smiling, their expressions growing twisted.


    This kid seemed quite arrogant just now!


    Good, he has to come down eventually!


    A mere second-realm newbie, they had so many people, they could cripple him!


    "This is up to you, big brother."


    Behind the man, the crowd egged him on.


    "Don''t worry."


    The man clenched his fists, his face twisted into a smile, "I promise not to kill him."


    Atop the Burning Heart Tower, Li Ziye saw the excited crowd below and his eyelids twitched.


    This isn''t how the story should go!


    Something must have gone wrong!


    With that thought, Li Ziye looked at the heavenly tome before him, shook it vigorously with his hand, and said anxiously, "Come on, heavenly tome, do it again!"


    However, the heavenly tome had completely stopped responding, no matter how Li Ziye fussed.


    "I''ve already taken off my pants, and this is what you show me?"


    Li Ziye was on the verge of tears. This wasn''t the right process. What happened to stepping into the Five Realms in one go, becoming invincible, and then lamenting the loneliness of a master, the cold from the heights?


    Now, instead of carving a name for himself, he had carved loneliness!

 Chapter 70 – You are the savior

    On the top of the Heartburn Tower, all eyes were on Li Ziye, who was feeling lonely. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The opening move was earth-shattering, and the special effects were at their maximum, but the result was just a shiver, and it ended abruptly.


    It was so dull.


    Li Ziye felt like crying. He looked down at the people waiting for him to come down and suddenly felt trapped.


    If he had known that the Heavenly Book was so unreliable, he wouldn''t have been so arrogant before.


    Did he just insult someone?


    A few people?


    Did he insult everyone?


    Thinking of this, cold sweat broke out on Li Ziye''s forehead.


    "Kid, why don''t you come down!"


    Among the onlookers, a man spoke with a fierce expression, "Are you planning to spend the New Year up there?"


    "Haha!"


    At these words, the crowd burst into unrestrained laughter. They had been enduring this kid for a long time.


    They were afraid that this kid would rise to the top in one step, so they didn''t dare to say anything. But now it was different. It was finally time for them to vent their anger.


    "The Plum Blossom Sword Immortal has left."


    Someone shouted, and everyone looked over to see that the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal had indeed left, and their last bit of concern disappeared.


    "The people from the Confucian School are leaving too."


    Then someone else shouted.


    In front of the tower, including Bai Wangyu and the Confucian Scholar Wenxiu, the disciples of the Confucian School turned around and prepared to leave.


    "Old Bai, don''t go!"


    On the Heartburn Tower, Li Ziye saw the situation and felt a little panicked. He shouted anxiously, "What will I do if you leave?"


    Behind the disciples of the Confucian School, Bai Wangyu paused, about to turn back. But the Confucian Scholar Wenxiu spoke up with a smile, "Senior Brother, can you fight so many people alone?"


    Bai Wangyu''s expression changed, and he subconsciously looked at the excited crowd not far away. Then he withdrew his gaze and left even faster.


    "Old Bai, you are not righteous!"


    Li Ziye shouted loudly on the Heartburn Tower.


    "Divine Child, let''s go too."


    In the Sky Oracle Hall, Liu Rongn¨¹ spoke calmly, "Since the mission has failed, we must apologize to the Temple Master."


    "Okay."


    Yan Xiaoyu nodded, looked at the young man in front of the Heavenly Book with cold eyes, and then turned and left.


    Li Ziye, you won''t be so lucky next time we meet.


    The strong people of the Sky Oracle Hall left one after another. In front of the Heartburn Tower, only a group of onlookers who had been sprayed by Li Ziye were left. At this moment, they were excited and waiting for Li to come down.


    "Kid, come down quickly!"


    In front of the crowd, the man clenched his fists and shouted loudly, "I''ve been patient with you for a long time!"


    "Yes, come down quickly!"


    Behind them, the others echoed angrily.


    Li Ziye looked at the group of people below who were reluctant to leave, and sweat continued to pour down his forehead. What should he do?


    The Fairy Master had left, and that ungrateful Little Red Riding Hood had slipped away, leaving him alone to deal with this group. Wasn''t this a joke?


    At this moment, on the eighteenth floor of the Heartburn Tower, Kong Qiu stood up and looked at the Heavenly Book above with a hint of surprise in his old eyes.


    Strange.


    He had never seen a Heavenly Book with such weak power.


    It only opened one vein, and his cultivation had only increased by one realm. It was really too little.


    From the commotion just now, it seemed that this kid could step into the Five Realms at any moment. Where did all that righteousness go when it entered his body?


    It seemed that there were many secrets on this kid that he didn''t know about.


    Thinking of this, Kong Qiu waved his hand, and invisible energy surged out, retracting the Heavenly Book.


    The next moment, the Heavenly Book disappeared into thin air, and Li Ziye''s figure also disappeared.


    "Damn, where did that kid go?"


    The people below erupted in anger.


    "Where did he run off to!"


    "I haven''t had my revenge yet!"


    At the Imperial Academy, in the east, in a small courtyard.


    Without warning, Li Ziye''s figure appeared out of thin air.


    In front of him, Kong Qiu threw a hoe at him and said, "Can you weed?"


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye took the hoe and looked at the vegetable garden in the courtyard, showing surprise on his face. It was already autumn, so why did this small courtyard still look like spring?


    "Kid, is the place you came from very different from this world?"


    In the vegetable garden, Kong Qiu also took a hoe and asked curiously while weeding.


    Li Ziye was about to crouch down when he heard this and was shocked to see the old man in front of him. His surprise was evident in his expression.


    He had never told anyone about this secret, not even Old Li or Sister Youwei.


    It wasn''t a matter of distrust, but this matter was too shocking and unbelievable.


    How did the Confucian Scholar know?


    "Don''t panic."


    Kong Qiu weeded a plant and said calmly, "From the moment you were born, this old man knew that you were not from this world."


    Li Ziye came back to his senses and suppressed his shock, saying, "Confucian Scholar, apart from you, does anyone else know about this?"


    "Your Master knows."


    Kong Qiu answered truthfully, "No one else."


    Li Ziye breathed a sigh of relief. That was good.


    It was better for not too many people to know about this matter, otherwise, there would be a lot of unnecessary trouble.


    "Confucian Scholar, do you want to know what my world is like? In fact, the sky is no longer blue where I come from, the sea is no longer clear, the city is full of tricks, and the roads in the countryside are slippery..."After finally meeting someone to confide in, Li Ziye sat on a pile of dirt and began to talk non-stop. He talked about everything from astronomy and geography to trivial matters, and from the big bang to relativity. If it weren''t for his limited abilities, he could have recited the entire history of the Earth.


    Kong Qiu listened to the young man''s enthusiastic storytelling without any impatience, and sat down quietly in the vegetable garden.


    After a while, Li Ziye''s throat felt dry from talking so much. He saw a teapot on a nearby stone table, got up, poured himself a cup of tea, drank it in one gulp, and then sat back down to continue talking. "After several ice ages, most of the creatures in our world became extinct, and then..."


    "Hold on."


    At this point, a strange look flashed in Kong Qiu''s eyes as he said, "Has your world also experienced such a long winter?"


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "We call it the Ice Age."


    "How did your world survive this long winter?" Kong Qiu asked in a serious tone.


    "Well," Li Ziye scratched his head and said, "During the Ice Age, the evolution of humans in our world was not complete, and there wasn''t a good way to survive, so most of us were on the brink of extinction."


    After hearing this, Kong Qiu furrowed his brow. After a moment, he spoke, "Have you heard of the polar night?"


    "I have."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "In our world, the phenomenon of polar day and polar night often occurs at the North and South Poles, and each polar day and polar night can last for several months."


    "If the polar night arrives, how do you deal with it?" Kong Qiu continued to ask.


    "There''s no way."


    Li Ziye shook his head and said, "The two poles of the world are simply uninhabitable. Even though the technology in our world is very advanced, the teams that go to investigate during the polar night usually end up returning."


    At this point, Li Ziye''s face showed a look of curiosity as he said, "Why is the Confucian Scholar asking about this?"


    "Because in this world, the polar night will soon descend," Kong Qiu said with a serious expression.


    "What?!" Li Ziye gasped, suddenly realizing the seriousness of the situation.


    The appearance of the polar night at the poles was not a big deal, but if the polar night descended on the entire Nine Provinces, it would be a catastrophic disaster.


    Not to mention the cold winter, the more frightening thing was the human heart!


    With the collapse of etiquette and the absence of law, the entire Nine Provinces would be in chaos.


    Thinking of this, Li Ziye couldn''t help but swallow hard and look at the old man in front of him, saying, "Confucian Scholar, is there no way to avoid it?"


    "At least, I can''t stop it," Kong Qiu sighed lightly. "You should have seen my name in the ancient book."


    "I did."


    Li Ziye nodded, puzzled, "I was just wondering why the Confucian Scholar''s name is before the first generation Sword God?"


    "Because I am a person from a thousand years ago."


    Kong Qiu did not hide the truth and said, "A thousand years ago, when I obtained the ancient book, I saw the scene of the polar night and cold winter descending a thousand years later. So, I have been trying to find a way to solve it, but for a thousand years, I have been unable to find a solution, until I saw you come to this world seventeen years ago."


    "But I also don''t know how to solve this dilemma," Li Ziye said in a serious tone.


    "Don''t worry."


    Kong Qiu shook his head and said, "The polar night and cold winter won''t arrive at this moment. We still have time. The important thing is that you have a vision and insight beyond this world, which is your greatest advantage and the reason why I chose you."


    "The burden on the Confucian Scholar is really too heavy," Li Ziye said with a wry smile. "I have never thought of myself as a savior. I don''t have the broad-mindedness and compassion of the Confucian Scholar. I just want to make the people around me live better and make myself live better. That is my greatest happiness."


    "The people around you?" At this point, Kong Qiu seemed to remember something and asked, "Is your elder sister betrothed to someone?"


    "No."


    Li Ziye''s face showed a guarded look as he said, "Confucian Scholar, my elder sister has very high standards, mainly because she has such an outstanding younger brother like me, so she doesn''t look favorably on ordinary people."


    "Heh."


    Kong Qiu smiled gently and said, "What do you think of my family''s W¨¤ng Y¨³?"


    "Little Red Riding Hood?"


    Li Ziye looked startled, then his face showed a pained expression as he said, "If it''s Little Red Riding Hood, I can endure it, but I don''t know if my elder sister is willing?"


    "Don''t worry."


    Kong Qiu smiled and said, "I was just asking. Whether they are truly destined to be together depends on the two of them. W¨¤ng Y¨³ has changed a lot during the time he has been with you. With you taking care of him in the future, I can rest assured."


    "Confucian Scholar, please don''t praise me so much."


    Li Ziye smiled wryly and said, "Little Red Riding Hood is so capable. He has always been the one taking care of me."


    "Now it''s different."


    Kong Qiu sighed lightly and said, "W¨¤ng Y¨³ is fated to face a calamity. I am really worried that he won''t be able to get through it. This child''s temperament is too stubborn, and sometimes, being too rigid makes one easily break."


    "Is Little Red Riding Hood in danger?"Upon hearing this, Li Ziye''s expression tightened slightly as he said, "Is it that serious?"


    "A matter of life and death."


    Kong Qiu nodded and replied, "That''s why this old man has asked him to follow you. In the future, if he finds himself in a desperate situation, I hope you can lend him a hand as much as possible."


    "Rest assured, Confucian Scholar."


    Li Ziye spoke earnestly, "I may not care about the others, but if anyone dares to harm Little Red Riding Hood, I will risk my life to tear them apart!"

 Chapter 71 – Extreme Night Frost

    In the quiet courtyard to the east of the Imperial Academy.


    An old man and a young man were chatting in the vegetable garden, discussing everything from the origin of the universe to the end of the world, sharing insights from two different worlds.


    "Confucian Scholar, why couldn''t Li Taibai live past a thousand years?"


    Li Ziye voiced his confusion, asking, "Is it because his cultivation was not as advanced as the Confucian Scholar''s?"


    "It''s not that."


    Kong Qiu shook his head and said, "This old man has lived past a thousand years because of the existence of the Heavenly Tome. Do you know why, despite the millennia, the Heavenly Tome, which opens every hundred years, only has four names inscribed upon it?"


    "Is it because they didn''t pass the Confucian Scholar''s test?" Li Ziye asked curiously.


    "Yes, and no."


    Kong Qiu replied calmly, "The test of this old man is, in fact, the test of the Heavenly Tome. Over the millennia, many have reached the end but were unable to inscribe their names on the Heavenly Tome. Thus, even after a long thousand years, only four have successfully inscribed their names."


    "The Heavenly Tome has its own will?" Li Ziye asked in surprise.


    "Yes."


    To read the uncut version, go to ].


    Kong Qiu nodded and said, "Inscribing one''s name on the Heavenly Tome is essentially the process of the tome recognizing its master. Without its acknowledgment, even if one''s cultivation is strong, they cannot inscribe their name upon it."


    "The Heavenly Tome recognizes a master?"


    Li Ziye became even more astonished and said, "But wait, there are four names on the Heavenly Tome. Doesn''t it say that a treasure only recognizes one master?"


    "The Heavenly Tome is somewhat different."


    Kong Qiu patiently explained, "The Heavenly Tome is the embodiment of the rules of this world, encompassing all things. Therefore, it does not only acknowledge one person. However, there is a hierarchy."


    At this point, Kong Qiu paused slightly before continuing, "For instance, my name is ranked first on the Heavenly Tome, and I have held it for the longest time. In truth, I am the real master of the Heavenly Tome. To some extent, the Confucian Scholar is the Heavenly Tome, and the Heavenly Tome is the Confucian Scholar. This is also why I have lived for over a thousand years."


    "What about the others who have been recognized by the Heavenly Tome?" Li Ziye asked, puzzled.


    "Each has their own gains."


    Kong Qiu answered, "Li Taibai was obsessed with the sword, so with the power of the Heavenly Tome, he comprehended the Flying Immortal Technique. Fu Jinglun was obsessed with the Dao, so he stepped into the Five Realms. As for you, well, you know best."


    Hearing this, Li Ziye touched his nose awkwardly, knowing he was the least accomplished.


    "Actually, you shouldn''t be disappointed. The Heavenly Tome doesn''t make mistakes in its choice. Perhaps what you have gained is no less than anyone else''s; it''s just not apparent yet." Kong Qiu said with a smile.


    "I hope so."


    Li Ziye muttered, not quite believing his own words.


    "Speaking of the Heavenly Tome, there''s another matter I must entrust to you."


    Kong Qiu looked at the young man before him and said seriously, "Now, of the four people on the Heavenly Tome, Li Taibai has passed away, and Fu Jinglun''s name is actually ranked second. If I die, he will automatically become the master of the Heavenly Tome. Therefore, your task is not only to prevent the arrival of the Extreme Night Cold Winter but also to find a way to stop Fu Jinglun from obtaining the Heavenly Tome."


    "No, no!"


    Li Ziye quickly shook his head and said, "He''s ranked ahead of me, and his cultivation is so much higher than mine. How can I stop him? Besides, Confucian Scholar, you''ve lived for over a thousand years; living a few hundred more shouldn''t be a problem. That day will never come."


    "Fate dictates otherwise; you cannot escape it."


    Kong Qiu said earnestly, "Moreover, now that you have inscribed your name on the Heavenly Tome, once I die, the only possible masters of the Heavenly Tome will be you and Fu Jinglun. By then, even if you do not compete, Fu Jinglun will not tolerate you."


    "Damn it."


    Li Ziye was shocked by the revelation and said, "Confucian Scholar, why didn''t you say so earlier? If I had known, I wouldn''t have come."


    After all the hardships to break through just one meridian, his cultivation hadn''t improved much, and now he was even targeted by the Temple Master of the Heavenly Mandate Temple. It didn''t seem worth it!


    "You, young man."


    Kong Qiu showed a helpless expression and said, "Having the chance to become the master of the Heavenly Tome is an opportunity many dream of, and yet you are unwilling."


    "It''s mainly because I can''t defeat that Fu Jinglun." Li Ziye said with a wry smile.


    "I''m not asking you to fight that scholar right now. This old man won''t die so soon; I''m just giving you a heads-up." Kong Qiu explained.


    "Confucian Scholar, with all due disrespect, you''re almost living as long as a turtle, and I might not even outlive you. You''re thinking too far ahead with these matters." Li Ziye said.


    "Heh."


    Kong Qiu chuckled lightly, not taking offense, and said, "I''m old. In the future, this world will belong to you young people. All this old man can do is ensure a peaceful transition when the day comes."


    "Who can be certain about the future?"


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "I hope you live a long life, no, for thousands of years. This burden is too heavy; you should continue to carry it."


    "You..."Kong Qiu shook his head helplessly and said, "Forget it. I''ll hold on for a while longer. When you grow up, we can talk about it. I don''t want you to resent this old man behind my back."


    "How is that possible?"


    Li Ziye immediately denied, "The person I respect the most is you, Confucian Scholar."


    At this point, Li Ziye seemed to remember something. He took out a tattered book from his pocket and handed it to the old man in front of him, saying, "Confucian Scholar, I forgot to ask you about something. Do you know what this ''Extreme Night Frost'' recorded in here refers to?"


    Kong Qiu took the tattered book and glanced at it. A glimmer of light flashed in his eyes, and he said, "If I''m not mistaken, ''Extreme Night Frost'' should refer to... demon blood."


    "Demon blood?"


    Li Ziye was surprised and asked, "Are there really demons in this world?"


    "All things have spirits. In this world, there are always some existences that people cannot understand. Demons and humans are essentially no different, just different names."


    Kong Qiu said, "The thing you and the Southwest King''s son encountered in the capital city before, was a demon."


    "So, Confucian Scholar knows about this."


    Li Ziye said in a deep voice, "If that thing is really a demon, it''s going to be troublesome. If demons eat people, the world will be in chaos." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kong Qiu fell silent for a long time and sighed lightly, "Not all demons eat people. Just as humans have good and evil, demons are the same."


    "Confucian Scholar may think so, but the world doesn''t."


    Li Ziye said seriously, "As long as one demon eats a person, people will fear demons. If two demons eat people, this fear will be greatly magnified. Without being of the same race, there can never be equal treatment. Confucian Scholar should understand this."


    Kong Qiu sighed lightly and said, "I understand, but when the extreme night frost comes, demons are destined to emerge from the extreme night and come to the human world. If they cannot coexist, the world will be filled with blood."


    Li Ziye fell silent. This matter was destined to have no solution.


    The difference in races will trigger fear in people''s hearts. Even if it is forcibly suppressed with violence, it can only maintain temporary peace at most and cannot last long. Just a small incident will reignite the conflict.


    Demons eating people is deeply ingrained in people''s minds and cannot be changed.


    "Li Family''s young master, you have to figure out a way to solve this matter," Kong Qiu said.


    "No."


    Li Ziye immediately refused, "I can''t solve it. This matter is fundamentally unsolvable. Confucian Scholar, you are overestimating me. Each task you assign is more difficult than the last."


    "If it were easy, I wouldn''t have given it to you."


    Kong Qiu smiled and said, "I''ll say it again, there''s no rush. You have plenty of time to think of a solution."


    "Confucian Scholar, I feel like something is not right."


    Li Ziye looked at the old man in front of him with suspicion, "I''ve been here for half a day, and you''ve been giving me homework without any benefits. Isn''t that inappropriate?"


    "Benefits?"


    Kong Qiu was taken aback, then smiled lightly, "What benefits do you want?"


    "I don''t want much, just to enter the Five Realms."


    Li Ziye said with anticipation.


    "I can''t do that."


    Kong Qiu shook his head.


    "Then help me open the Eight Meridians."


    Li Ziye took a step back and said expectantly.


    "You have already opened four meridians in a row. Your body has reached its temporary limit and needs to rest for a while. So, I can''t fulfill this request now. Besides, the effect of the Medicine King''s action in breaking the meridians is much better than mine. The Li Family has connections and silver, so there''s no need to settle for less," Kong Qiu said truthfully.


    "Ugh."


    Li Ziye felt frustrated at this and thought, ''Nothing works. I want the horse to run, but I won''t give the horse grass.''


    "However."


    Seeing the young man in front of him about to lose his temper, Kong Qiu''s tone changed and he said with a smile, "If there''s anything you like here, you can take it. I won''t stop you."


    Li Ziye looked at the old man in front of him with disdain. What''s there to take here, except for a few cabbages? Does the Li Family lack cabbages?


    "Confucian Scholar, you''re really stingy," Li Ziye couldn''t help but say.


    "Haha."


    Kong Qiu laughed. In a thousand years, only this little guy dared to speak to him like this.


    "Laugh all you want."


    Li Ziye muttered to himself in his heart, of course, he didn''t dare to say it out loud.


    "How about this, you switch to the Confucian School, become my disciple, and in the Great Shang Dynasty, you can walk with your head held high," Kong Qiu suggested with a smile.


    "No."


    Li Ziye decisively shook his head and said, "I only want my Fairy Master. With my Fairy Master''s protection, I can still walk with my head held high."


    "Heh."Kong Qiu chuckled lightly and said, "You should think carefully. Although the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal is formidable, after all, she is but one person. The Confucian School, on the other hand, has disciples all over the world, and with my influence, even the Heavenly Edict Hall would have to admit inferiority."


    "Confucian Scholar, please don''t try to coax me."


    Li Ziye said helplessly, "Do you think I''m a fool? Little Red Cap is the top disciple of the Confucian School, and at the very least, he could become a revered master in the future, or even possibly take your place. Given my relationship with Little Red Cap, what difference does it make whether I join the Confucian School or not? Why should I bear the stigma of being opportunistic and betraying my master and ancestors?"


    "True to the Li Family, you''re quite clear-headed in your calculations."


    Kong Qiu smiled and continued, "Well then, if you don''t join the Confucian School, it will save us a lot of trouble. Let the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal worry about your future trivial matters. However, I have a suggestion for you. Since you have the title of a National Scholar, why not come to the Imperial Academy and start a class as an honorary instructor? This way, you won''t have to join the Confucian School, yet you''ll still have access to many resources that only Confucian School disciples have."


    "That''s a possibility."


    Li Ziye''s eyes lit up upon hearing this and he asked, "Can I teach anything?"


    "Anything."


    Kong Qiu replied with a smile, "As long as there are students willing to listen."


    "Hehe."


    Li Ziye''s smile grew wider upon hearing this.


    He liked this idea very much!

 Chapter 72 – Knowledgeable in propriety

    Outside the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye sneaked out cautiously, looking around to see if anyone was waiting to ambush him.


    "Stop looking, no one''s there."


    From behind, Bai Wangyu walked over and said, "Those people couldn''t wait and have already left."


    "Old Bai."


    Li Ziye''s face lit up when he saw the newcomer and asked, "Is your injury okay now?"


    "I''ve taken the medicine, it''s nothing serious."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and said, "But Yan Xiaoyu''s injury is much more severe than mine."


    "Yeah, I made a mistake."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "I should have just killed him with one sword."


    "Haha."


    Bai Wangyu chuckled and said, "There''s no need for that. If he died in Great Shang, it would cause some trouble. The sword you gave him is enough to leave a lasting impression on him."


    "I didn''t think that much at the time, but looking back now, it feels great!"


    Li Ziye said with a sense of relief.


    "Let''s talk about it later, let''s go."


    Bai Wangyu smiled and then walked towards Li Yuan with his sword on his back.


    "Wait for me."


    Li Ziye hurried to catch up, talking non-stop along the way, venting to Little Red Riding Hood about the oppression he faced from the old man at the Confucian School.


    Bai Wangyu just listened patiently with a smile, rarely interrupting.


    Before long, in front of Li Yuan, Li Ziye seemed to have let something slip, and Bai Wangyu stopped in his tracks, looking surprised as he asked, "What did you say? Li Youwei and me?"


    Li Ziye quickly covered his mouth and shook his head vigorously, saying, "I didn''t say anything."


    Bai Wangyu furrowed his brows lightly but didn''t ask further, walking into Li Yuan.


    Strange, when did the Confucian Scholar start caring about the private affairs of the Confucian School disciples?


    In the front yard, a beautiful figure was waiting, with a graceful face, long hair cascading down, the epitome of a beauty.


    Bai Wangyu walked over and, upon seeing the woman in the courtyard, felt something was off for some reason.


    "Sister Youwei."


    Li Ziye ran up from behind, joyfully saying, "I won, none of those so-called geniuses could even put up a fight."


    "You''re really amazing, little brother."


    Li Youwei smiled and said, "Are you hungry? The food is ready and waiting for you."


    "A little."


    Li Ziye replied and then turned to grab Little Red Riding Hood, who was trying to run away, saying, "Let''s go, let''s eat together."


    "Brother Li, I''m not hungry."


    Bai Wangyu struggled a bit and said.


    "Even if you''re not hungry, you have to come. This meal is also a celebration for me."


    Li Ziye grabbed Little Red Riding Hood''s sleeve and dragged him towards the inner courtyard.


    In the room, the beautiful young maids of the mansion had already prepared the food and left one after another.


    Li Ziye dragged Little Red Riding Hood over and pushed him into a seat.


    Behind them, Li Youwei also walked over and sat down opposite.


    "Wow, it''s rare that everyone''s here today."


    At this moment, Slovenly Zhang walked over with a jar of wine, looking at the four people at the table and grinning.


    "Temple Master Sword Enthusiast."


    Bai Wangyu saw the old man approaching and immediately stood up to pay his respects. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sit down, stop being so formal. You''ve been at Li Yuan for so long, but you still have the habit of being so formal."


    After speaking, Slovenly Zhang sat down next to Li Ziye, curious as he asked, "Kid, I heard you made a name for yourself in the Heavenly Book today?"


    "Of course, how was it? Am I amazing?"


    Li Ziye immediately straightened up, proud of himself.


    "Haha."


    Slovenly Zhang chuckled and said, "There''s no need to think about it, I''m sure Bai Wangyu helped you fend off most of your opponents. Otherwise, what could you do?"


    "What''s wrong with me?"


    Li Ziye was immediately annoyed at the comment and said unwillingly, "I''m also a master of two Divine Hidden Techniques now!"


    "Wow, two Divine Hidden Techniques, so amazing!"


    Slovenly Zhang sneered, "I''ve lived for so many years and have never heard of anyone who''s weaker than you after making a name for themselves in the Heavenly Book."


    "..."


    Li Ziye was hit where it hurt and felt like crying.


    This old man was really annoying.


    He just had to bring it up!


    "In fact, Brother Li did quite well. In the Tower of Burning Hearts, if he hadn''t given Yan Xiaoyu a sword in the end, perhaps, Yan Xiaoyu would have been the one to win in the end."


    On the side, Bai Wangyu timely defended Li Ziye''s pride and said.


    "He was able to stab Yan Xiaoyu?"


    This time, it was Slovenly Zhang''s turn to be surprised and asked, "That''s not right, even if you could hold off Yan Xiaoyu, with this kid''s little skill, it''s impossible for him to injure the Divine Child of the Temple of Heavenly Decree."


    "Well... the situation was a bit complicated at the time."


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and explained, "At the time, Second Junior Brother and I joined forces, intending to defeat Yan Xiaoyu as soon as possible. Unexpectedly, Yan Xiaoyu suddenly used the Divine Decree Technique, almost sending me and Second Junior Brother out directly. Fortunately, at the critical moment when Yan Xiaoyu used the Divine Decree Technique, Brother Li took action and gave him a sword."


    "The Divine Decree Technique?"


    Slovenly Zhang''s expression changed upon hearing this and said, "No, that Yan Xiaoyu hasn''t even reached the third realm, it''s absolutely impossible for him to learn the Divine Decree Technique, unless..."


    At this point, Slovenly Zhang''s tone faltered, showing a look of shock.


    Could it be that scholar?


    "Temple Master Sword Enthusiast''s guess is probably correct, it''s the handiwork of the Temple of Heavenly Decree''s Temple Master."


    Slovenly Zhang concluded.Bai Wangyu said in a low voice, "According to the inference of the Confucian Master, the Temple Master of the Divine Oracle Temple may have sealed a divine technique in Yan Xiaoyu''s body in advance, which can only be used in a critical moment."


    "Weird, why would the Temple of Divine Oracle go to such lengths?"


    Slovenly Zhang couldn''t understand and said, "This method will definitely have extreme side effects. After using the Divine Oracle technique, Yan Xiaoyu''s foundation might be damaged. The cost is really not worth it, unless he is absolutely sure he can win this opportunity. Otherwise, it''s completely unnecessary to take such a risk."


    With Yan Xiaoyu''s martial arts talent, even if his name is not engraved in the heavenly book, he would have been able to enter the Fifth Realm given time. The current situation has cast a shadow over the martial arts path of this Divine Oracle Child.


    "I don''t understand this at all."


    Bai Wangyu said, "Perhaps the Temple Master of Divine Oracle has other intentions."


    "Are you two going to eat?"


    At this moment, Li Youwei, who had been silent at the table, looked at the two chattering men and said calmly.


    "Yes."


    Slovenly Zhang was taken aback, then grinned and dared not say more.


    After spending a long time with her, he realized that judging people by their appearance is nonsense.


    He had actually thought that the eldest daughter of the Li family had a pure and kind personality?


    He was too naive.


    On the side, Bai Wangyu immediately shut up and quietly picked up his food to eat.


    In the middle of the two, Li Ziye had already picked up his bowl and was stuffing food into his mouth with all his might.


    Huh, two idiots, they don''t speak when it''s time to sleep and don''t understand when it''s time to eat? Do they really need Sister Youwei to remind them?


    The meal ended quickly under Li Youwei''s powerful aura, and then everyone went their separate ways.


    "Sister Youwei."


    As Li Youwei was clearing the table, Li Ziye approached and looked around before whispering, "What do you think of Little Red Riding Hood?"


    "Average."


    Li Youwei said calmly, "Why do you ask?"


    "Nothing."


    Hearing his elder sister''s evaluation, Li Ziye shook his head regretfully. Little Red Riding Hood, I did my best, but you''re just not outstanding enough.


    "If you have nothing to do, go rest or practice your sword. Your Second Brother said he will be back soon." Li Youwei reminded him.


    "Cough, Second Brother is coming back?"


    Li Ziye shuddered at the news and said, "Then I''ll go practice my sword first."


    With that, Li Ziye hurriedly ran to the west wing.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu was puzzled and asked, "Brother Li, why are you back again instead of resting?"


    "My Second Brother is coming back soon, so I have to make good use of my time to practice my sword." Li Ziye panted.


    "Brother Li''s Second Brother?"


    Bai Wangyu was surprised and asked, "Li Qingzhi?"


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye nodded and said, "Have you heard of him too?"


    "I''ve heard of him, but I don''t know much about him." Bai Wangyu said.


    "Old Bai, let me tell you, my Second Brother is a freak."


    Li Ziye said in a low voice, "He always bullies me because he''s a few years older. He''s always been bullying me."


    "Is there anyone in the Li family who dares to bully Brother Li?" Bai Wangyu looked incredulous and said.


    "What do you mean, ''is there anyone who dares''? In the Li family, apart from Old Li, I have the lowest status."


    Li Ziye said bitterly, "You saw my elder sister just now. When she speaks, no one dares to say a word. My Second Brother may not be as domineering, but he''s really good at fighting. I can''t beat him, I can''t outrun him. I''ve been beaten up since I was little."


    "But Brother Li has already entered the Second Realm, so he shouldn''t be beaten up anymore." Bai Wangyu comforted him.


    "Heh."


    Li Ziye smiled awkwardly and said, "It''s useless, Old Bai, I''ll tell you, my Second Brother might have already entered the Third Realm."


    "The Third Realm?"


    Bai Wangyu was shocked to hear this.


    Given the age of Brother Li and his elder sister, the second son of the Li family should be no more than twenty years old. It''s hard to believe that someone of this age has entered the Third Realm.


    "The Li family really hides dragons and tigers!"


    Bai Wangyu came to his senses and couldn''t help but sigh.


    He had thought that Yan Xiaoyu, San Zang, and Huo Lin''er were already the most powerful among the younger generation, but he didn''t expect that the Li family had an even more powerful Li Qingzhi.


    Opening three divine hidden techniques, on the Nine Provinces, he was already considered a true master. After all, there are not many Five-Realm cultivators like Confucian Scholars and Plum Blossom Sword Immortals in the world.


    "Old Bai, do you understand my pain now?"


    Li Ziye said sorrowfully, "So, can I not work hard? I won''t say anymore, I need to practice my sword quickly."


    "No rush."


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu grabbed him and said, "I have a better way."


    "What way?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "Aren''t you going to be an instructor at the Imperial Academy?" Bai Wangyu said, "In the Imperial Academy, there are also hidden dragons and crouching tigers. If Brother Li can get guidance from those old instructors, his strength will surely improve by leaps and bounds. So, Brother Li, rest up today, and tomorrow we''ll go to the Imperial Academy and greet the instructors."


    "Good point."


    Li Ziye''s eyes lit up. As the saying goes, in a group of three, there must be one who is my teacher. The Imperial Academy gathers the most powerful people in the Great Shang. Their insights into martial arts must be different. If he can get their guidance, he might not have to endure his Second Brother''s bullying.


    ...


    The next day.As dawn broke, Li Ziye dragged Bai Wangyu out of Li Garden and hurried towards the Imperial Academy.


    "Old Bai, what are the personalities of the instructors at the Imperial Academy like?" On the way, Li Ziye asked curiously.


    "The Imperial Academy is the sacred land of the Confucian School, and the instructors are naturally the best among them, knowledgeable in propriety, and gentle and refined," Bai Wangyu recited as if reading from a book.


    "Oh."


    Li Ziye responded, quickly taking note in his mind.


    At the north courtyard of the Imperial Academy, Bai Wangyu led Li Ziye over, just about to enter when he suddenly stopped in his tracks.


    "Damn it, these little brats are so hard to teach, I really want to slap them to death!"


    "Heh, Old Yao, what''s the use of complaining? Those little brats, if it weren''t for the rules of the Imperial Academy, I would have slapped them dead long ago, it wouldn''t even be your turn."


    Outside the north courtyard, Li Ziye listened to the noises inside, his face filled with confusion as he turned to look at the little red hood beside him.


    Is this what you meant by knowledgeable in propriety, gentle and refined?

 Chapter 73 – Chen Qiaoer

    Imperial Academy, outside the North Court.


    Bai Wangyu stood there with an embarrassed look on his face, not knowing whether to enter or not.


    "Hey, little Wangyu!"


    At this moment, an instructor in the courtyard saw Bai Wangyu outside and immediately smiled, saying, "Come on in."


    Bai Wangyu had no choice but to walk in with a stiff face.


    Behind him, Li Ziye curiously followed, ready to see what these "well-behaved" instructors looked like.


    "Who is this?"


    The instructors in the courtyard saw the young man following behind and asked in confusion.


    "He is Li Ziye, the eldest son of the Li Family," Bai Wangyu introduced.


    "Is he the young man from the Li Family who carved his name in the heavenly book?"


    A bearded instructor showed surprise and said, "He doesn''t look particularly special."


    "Old Yao, don''t judge a book by its cover, you know nothing," a middle-aged man who looked like a scholar stepped forward from behind and looked at the young man with what he thought was a friendly smile. He reached out and patted the young man''s shoulder, saying, "Young man from the Li Family, I am Li Qingshan. Perhaps hundreds of years ago, we were also family."


    "Instructor Li."


    Li Ziye immediately greeted politely.


    "Young man from the Li Family, don''t be fooled by this old glass. He''s the most eccentric one in the entire North Court," a bearded instructor reminded from the side. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Li Ziye was taken aback and looked at the little red hat beside him, wondering what it meant.


    "Be careful."


    Bai Wangyu reminded in a low voice.


    "Ah."


    Li Ziye took a sharp breath at the words and quickly took a step back.


    Damn, that''s disgusting.


    "Yao Guihai, do you believe I''ll tear your mouth apart!"


    Li Qingshan saw the little fat sheep about to escape and looked at the bearded man beside him, his friendly expression disappearing, replaced by a cold tone.


    "Old glass, come on, I''m not afraid of you."


    Yao Guihai, with a full beard, showed no weakness at all, confronting him head-on.


    "Don''t quarrel!"


    Just then, a female instructor with thick glasses walked out of the North Court, holding a scroll in her hand, reading and speaking at the same time.


    Li Qingshan and Yao Guihai saw the approaching woman and immediately shut up, not daring to say more.


    Beside Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu saw the woman coming and couldn''t help but break out in a cold sweat.


    Instructor Chen Qiao''er, why is she here today?


    "What''s wrong?"


    Li Ziye, seeing the situation, said in confusion. Isn''t she just a weak female instructor? Why are these people so scared?


    Under three fearful gazes and one puzzled gaze, Chen Qiao''er read her book and walked over.


    From Li Ziye''s aesthetic point of view, the female instructor in front of him was not a standard beauty, more like a delicate and pretty woman from the south, very delicate. However, the thick glasses destroyed all the beauty.


    "Young man from the Li Family?"


    Chen Qiao''er put down the scroll, looked closely at the young man in front of her, and asked.


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye politely greeted.


    Bai Wangyu, seeing Chen Qiao''er approaching, subconsciously took a step back.


    Seeing this, Chen Qiao''er narrowed her eyes behind her glasses and said, "Little Wangyu, are you afraid of me?"


    "No."


    Bai Wangyu''s back was sweating profusely, shaking his head vigorously, "Instructor Chen is gentle and virtuous, how could I be afraid?"


    "Smart."


    Chen Qiao''er gently patted the young man''s shoulder and then turned her gaze back to the young man in front of her, saying, "I heard that Crystal was invented by you?"


    "No."


    Li Ziye immediately shook his head and denied, "It was invented by an old man in my family."


    Chen Qiao''er''s eyes flashed with a dangerous light at the words, "Where is that old man? I''ll go find him."


    "He has passed away." Li Ziye sensed that something was wrong and said.


    "Where is his grave?" Chen Qiao''er continued to ask.


    "..."


    Li Ziye was speechless for a moment. Is she really going to dig up someone else''s grave?


    "It was invented by you!"


    Chen Qiao''er stared into the young man''s eyes and said seriously.


    "No, it wasn''t," Li Ziye refused to admit.


    "Yes, it was!" Chen Qiao''er insisted.


    "No, it wasn''t!"


    "Yes, it was!"


    "No!"


    "Yes!"


    In the North Court, the two of them stared at each other, refusing to back down.


    Around them, Bai Wangyu and the two instructors all stayed far away, not daring to get involved.


    "Bang!"


    Suddenly, a loud noise rang out. Bai Wangyu and the two instructors were shocked to see the two arguing people directly start fighting, or more accurately, one-sidedly beating each other.


    With a slap, Chen Qiao''er directly knocked Li Ziye out.


    On the wall of the North Court, Li Ziye fell down like a piece of paper and landed on the ground.


    "Brother Li."


    Bai Wangyu came to his senses and hurried over to help him up.


    "Mad woman!"


    Li Ziye, holding his aching chest, said angrily, "A gentleman uses his mouth, not his hands. Why did you hit me!"


    "I am a woman, not a gentleman," Chen Qiao''er said calmly, "If you''re not satisfied, you can hit back."


    "Brother Li, don''t be impulsive," Bai Wangyu reminded quietly, "Instructor Chen is a master who has opened four Divine Hidden Techniques. You can''t beat her even if there were a hundred of you."


    "Ah!"


    Li Ziye took a sharp breath at the words, feeling a chill. This woman is so powerful?


    "Brother Li, let me introduce you to three instructors."


    Bai Wangyu saw that the atmosphere was a bit awkward and tried to smooth things over, saying, "You''ve just met Instructor Li Qingshan. He''s good at swordsmanship, so you can ask him for advice in the future, Brother Li."


    After that, Bai Wangyu looked at the bearded man on the other side and introduced, "This is Instructor Yao Guihai, from a butcher background, with superb knife skills, especially good at... slaughtering pigs!"


    Finally, Bai Wangyu looked at the only woman among the three instructors and said cautiously, "This is Instructor Chen Qiao''er, born with divine power and powerful palm techniques. Brother Li just experienced it."


    Li Ziye heard the introduction from Bai Wangyu and bowed respectfully, showing as much respect as possible.


    They''re all freaks!


    Not a single normal person."Are the introductions over?"


    Chen Qiao''er glanced at Bai Wangyu and said indifferently.


    "They''re over."


    Bai Wangyu replied respectfully.


    "Then go stand aside, I haven''t finished asking my questions!"


    Chen Qiao''er said coldly, then immediately stepped forward towards Li Ziye.


    "Old Bai, save me."


    Li Ziye, frightened, quickly ran behind Little Red Riding Hood and pleaded for help.


    Bai Wangyu was also sweating coldly. Although Instructor Chen was usually not normal, she had never gone mad like today.


    What happened?


    "Move aside!"


    Chen Qiao''er looked at Bai Wangyu blocking the way and spoke.


    "Instructor Chen."


    Bai Wangyu was about to say something, but upon seeing Chen Qiao''er''s warning gaze, he immediately chickened out and discreetly moved aside.


    "Old Bai, you!"


    Li Ziye, seeing this, was so angry he almost spat out blood. At the critical moment, Little Red Riding Hood was indeed unreliable.


    "Kid, did you invent the Crystal?"


    Up close, Chen Qiao''er looked at the young man in front of her and asked persistently.


    "Yes."


    Li Ziye finally couldn''t hold out and chose to compromise, admitting it.


    "That''s great."


    Upon hearing this, Chen Qiao''er''s delicate face showed a hint of joy. She took off her glasses from her nose and said, "Can you make these thinner? They''re so ugly!"


    Li Ziye was stunned, looking at the glasses in the woman''s hand. All this trouble for this?


    Just for this?


    Why didn''t you say so earlier!


    Li Ziye took the glasses and put them on his own eyes, immediately feeling the world spin.


    Damn it.


    What''s the prescription on these?


    Li Ziye quickly took off the glasses, shook his head, and then looked at the woman in front of him, curiously waving his hand in front of her eyes.


    With such high myopia, without glasses, it was almost no different from being blind.


    "Stop shaking, I can''t see, but I can sense it," Chen Qiao''er said indifferently.


    Hearing this, Li Ziye immediately withdrew his hand and gave an awkward smile, forgetting that this woman was an expert who had opened four Divine Hidden Techniques.


    "You haven''t answered me yet, can you or can''t you?" Chen Qiao''er asked.


    "It''s possible, but it will take some time," Li Ziye looked at the glasses in his hand and said, "The craftsmanship of Crystal is not yet mature. It''s not easy to make glasses with a high refractive index."


    "Refractive index?"


    Chen Qiao''er looked puzzled and asked, "What do you mean?"


    "This..."


    Li Ziye was somewhat stumped, how to explain this.


    "Never mind, as long as you can make it," Chen Qiao''er reached out, took back the glasses, and put them on again, "Once you make them, I''ll help you beat up someone, anyone you choose."


    "Deal."


    Li Ziye grinned and replied.


    This deal wasn''t bad, simple and brutal!


    He was starting to like Instructor Chen.


    "Instructors, Brother Li and I still have to visit instructors from the other two courtyards, so we won''t stay any longer. We''ll take our leave now."


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu quickly grabbed Li Ziye and started walking outside.


    "Old Bai, why the rush? I haven''t finished chatting with Instructor Chen!" Li Ziye complained after being dragged to the North Courtyard.


    "I''m afraid if you two keep talking, you might team up and flip the North Courtyard upside down."


    Bai Wangyu said irritably, "Let''s go, to the West Courtyard."


    ...


    While Li Ziye was starting to network in advance for teaching at the Imperial Academy, on the west side of the Capital City, a caravan rumbled along. Departing from the southwest border of Great Shang, after more than ten days on the road, they were less than half the distance to the Capital of Shang.


    Inside the carriage in the middle of the convoy, an extremely beautiful young girl sat, looking back at the procession behind her every so often, searching for that familiar figure.


    However, each time she looked, the girl was disappointed once more, her expression growing darker.


    At the back of the convoy, in a place no one could see, a young Buddhist Disciple in a light yellow robe followed silently, day after day, from the southwest border of Great Shang all the way here.


    The Buddhist Disciple had a delicate appearance, as pure as a child, with a blood-red Buddhist seal on his forehead, striking and vivid.


    After more than ten days of continuous travel, even a strong Buddhist Disciple like him was looking pale, clearly reaching his physical limits.


    However, San Zang did not stop, always following behind the caravan.


    The master said that suffering is also a form of cultivation.


    "Little monk, where are you?"


    In the carriage, Qing Qing murmured with a gloomy expression, her gaze fixed on the Capital of Shang, which was not too far away, a determined look flashing in her eyes.


    She would never marry that Prince.


    Even if it meant death.


    But she couldn''t bear to leave the little monk.

 Chapter 74 – This time Ill give you guys a big one!

    At the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu had almost reached dusk after walking through the West and South courtyards.


    After seeing the three courtyards of the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye''s three views were almost collapsing.


    There wasn''t a single normal person in the entire Imperial Academy!


    With these perverts, how could they teach students?


    As they were about to leave the Imperial Academy, Li Ziye looked at the little red hat beside him with a skeptical look on his face.


    It is said that people with high knowledge are prone to perversion. The instructors at the Imperial Academy are the most vivid examples. Will the little red hat also become like them in the future?


    It''s very dangerous!


    Bai Wangyu could tell what Li Xiong was thinking and felt a little embarrassed. She said, "Actually, the instructors are quite normal on weekdays."


    "Oh."


    Li Ziye nodded and responded indifferently.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu didn''t know how to explain, so she had to change the subject and ask, "What kind of class are you planning to teach at the Imperial Academy, Li Xiong?"


    "Hehe."


    When Li Ziye heard the question from the little red hat, the smile on his face suddenly became somewhat eerie, and he said, "Guess?"


    "Swordsmanship?" Bai Wangyu asked curiously.


    "No."


    Li Ziye shook his head and said, "There are so many instructors who use swords, and my fairy master is also in the Imperial Academy now. I don''t have a chance."


    "Footwork?" Bai Wangyu continued to guess.


    "Also not."


    Li Ziye shook his head again.


    "Unconventional skills."


    Bai Wangyu said affirmatively, "Li Xiong must be teaching this. The things invented by the Li Family are rare in the world. As a member of the Li Family, you must be very familiar with these crafts."


    "No."


    Li Ziye grinned and denied it again.


    "Not this either?"


    Bai Wangyu was surprised and said, "Then I can''t guess. What are you going to teach, Li Xiong?"


    "I''m not telling you!"


    Li Ziye laughed heartily and said, "Lao Bai, you''ll see. I guarantee that my class will have the largest number of auditors in the history of the Imperial Academy."


    Bai Wangyu looked at the young man beside her with a puzzled expression. Was Li Xiong having another episode?


    Thinking of this, Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but worry and urged, "Li Xiong, the Imperial Academy is a holy land for the Confucian School. You can''t mess around."


    "Mess around? Of course not."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "I was a little unsure at first, but after seeing those instructors today, I''m confident now. They are all so perverted. I''m sure the psychological endurance of those Imperial Academy students is still a bit lacking."


    This time, I''ll give you a big surprise!


    Listening to Li Xiong''s words, Bai Wangyu had a vague sense of foreboding for some reason.


    Is Li Xiong going to do something messy again?


    After returning to Li Yuan, Li Ziye, for once, didn''t rush to practice swordsmanship but went back to his own room.


    Under the pretext of preparing for class!


    For two days in a row, Li Ziye didn''t leave the inner courtyard, spending the whole day writing and drawing in his room, looking mysterious.


    Curious, Slovenly Zhang tried several times to go in and see what Li Ziye was doing, but he was chased out every time.


    In the end, even Hong Zhu and Li Youwei were alarmed and wanted to go in and see, but they still couldn''t enter Li Ziye''s room.


    As a result, the master and servants of Li Yuan all knew that the young master was up to something big.


    In the West Chamber, the most difficult thing to endure these days was Bai Wangyu. The more mysterious Li Ziye was, the more worried she became.


    "Sister Youwei, go to the southeast of the city and bring Miss Qing Xuan over for me!"


    Two days later, Li Ziye, with a messy head and dark circles under his eyes, poked his head out from behind the door and shouted loudly.


    After speaking, Li Ziye slammed the door shut again.


    In the inner courtyard, Li Youwei was startled to see her younger brother''s appearance. She wanted to say something, but the door had already been closed.


    "What is this little guy doing?" Hong Zhu asked in confusion.


    "I don''t know."


    Li Youwei shook her head and said, "The last time he was like this was ten years ago when he invented crystal and perfume. Judging by his appearance, he''s probably researching something again." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It doesn''t seem like it."


    Hong Zhu frowned and said, "It''s too quiet inside, and why does he want to invite that Yu Qingxuan?"


    "We can''t guess what the little brother is thinking. Let''s just do as he says."


    Li Youwei said, then turned and left the inner courtyard to bring Miss Qing Xuan from the southeast of the city for Li Ziye.


    Two hours later, a carriage arrived outside Li Yuan and stopped in front of the residence.


    Yu Qingxuan got off the carriage and entered Li Yuan with a puzzled look on her face.


    "Why did your young master summon me?" Yu Qingxuan asked the little maid who led the way, looking puzzled.


    "I''m not sure."


    The little maid shook her head and said, "You''d better ask the young master yourself."


    In the inner courtyard, Yu Qingxuan followed the little maid.


    "Young master, Miss Yu is here." The little maid knocked on the door and shouted.


    The door creaked open, and Li Ziye reached out and pulled Yu Qingxuan into the room, then slammed the door shut again.


    In the inner courtyard, Hong Zhu looked at this scene with a strange expression and said, "Youwei, is your brother going to do something to that courtesan?"


    "It doesn''t matter if he does."


    Li Youwei said calmly, "The Li Family is wealthy and can afford it."


    "..."


    Hong Zhu was speechless. This way of thinking is truly unique.


    Is this a matter of wealth and status? The key is whether the courtesan is willing!


    "Ah, the student has surpassed the master!"


    Just as the two were talking, the panicked voice of Yu Qingxuan came from the room ahead, spreading throughout the courtyard.


    Outside, Hong Zhu and Li Youwei were both stunned and looked at each other.


    Did he really use force?


    It can''t be. There are so many beautiful maids in the Li Family. If he can''t resist, there are plenty who would willingly offer themselves.


    "Could it be true love? He''s not good to other women?"


    Li Youwei murmured persistently.


    "..."


    Hong Zhu felt a headache coming on. What kind of siblings are they!


    "Qingxuan, don''t shout. Keep it down, keep it down!"Inside the room, Li Ziye looked at the courtesan before him, her beauty faded with distress, and quickly offered comfort.


    "Ziye, you!"


    Yu Qingxuan, her face flushed with embarrassment, looked at the patterns on the portraits before her and exclaimed, "This is an affront to decency!"


    "An affront my ass, this is called hygiene education, a legitimate science course."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "Quick, help me see what needs to be improved. My drawing skills are limited, so if there''s anything not good, you can redraw it for me. I''ve heard you''re proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting."


    "I won''t draw."


    Yu Qingxuan shook her head vigorously, her face burning with shame.


    "Don''t be so stingy, help me out with the drawing. Once it''s done, I''ll give you a few more music scores," Li Ziye said, grabbing her arm.


    At the mention of music scores, Yu Qingxuan''s face showed a touch of emotion, but upon seeing the patterns on the portraits again, she began to struggle once more.


    "Stop hesitating, if you don''t tell and I don''t tell, no one will know it was you who drew them."


    Li Ziye pulled her over to the table, laid out the rice paper, and handed her the brush.


    "I must not be said to have drawn this!" Yu Qingxuan insisted, her face red.


    "I won''t tell," Li Ziye nodded vigorously.


    "Swear it," Yu Qingxuan pressed.


    "I swear four times over!"


    Li Ziye raised four fingers and declared.


    Yu Qingxuan''s face reddened again, but ultimately, the temptation of the music scores made the pure courtesan abandon her integrity.


    Half a day later, Yu Qingxuan left the room with a flushed face, hurrying away without daring to stop for a moment.


    "Her face is so red, there must be something going on," Hong Zhu remarked.


    "How come she walks so smoothly? Could it be that she''s no longer a virgin?" Li Youwei wondered.


    "That shouldn''t be the case."


    Hong Zhu frowned, "I''ve heard that this little courtesan is very chaste."


    "Well, it could also be that she''s just in good health."


    Li Youwei nodded, "Never mind, I''ll ask my younger brother later. If he really likes her, it doesn''t matter if she''s not a virgin, she can still be a concubine."


    "..." Hong Zhu didn''t want to continue the conversation.


    The next day, at the Imperial Academy.


    Outside the classroom of the northern courtyard, a large promotional poster was posted, announcing the start of classes by the youngest national scholar in history.


    The students of the Imperial Academy scoffed at the poster, most of them disdainful.


    Who would want to attend a class taught by an instructor younger than themselves?


    Half a day later.


    "Damn it, is it true?"


    "It''s true!"


    "Then let''s go have a look!"


    "Hurry up, if we''re late there won''t be any spots left!"


    The northern courtyard classroom was packed with people, heads crowded together, afraid to miss the most shocking and unconventional course in the history of the Imperial Academy.


    "Bang!"


    In the southern and western courtyards, several old instructors heard about the new course opened by Li Ziye in the northern courtyard and were so shocked that they fell off their stools.


    "What did you say?"


    "What class?"


    "A hygiene education class!"


    A student in a Confucian robe said with a sweaty forehead, "The portraits brought by Instructor Li are all of undressed figures, and there''s more, there''s..."


    At this point, the student didn''t know how to continue.


    "An affront to decency, an affront to decency indeed!"


    The old instructors from both courtyards were furious, their beards bristling and eyes bulging. Was this Li family youngster trying to turn the Imperial Academy into a brothel?


    In the northern courtyard, in the classroom.


    Li Ziye put up a portrait on the easel, took a sip of tea from beside him, and continued, "Now, let''s look at this picture. Do you recognize what''s drawn here? Yes, it''s what you use to urinate, commonly known as the ''thing.''"


    "And what''s below it? What''s its use? Does anyone know?" Li Ziye surveyed the crowd and asked.


    Below, there was silence. The students looked at each other, but no one dared to speak.


    "You bunch of good-for-nothings, you really don''t know anything."


    Li Ziye first scolded them, then explained, "This is called the testicle, the place where male hormones are secreted. The reason you haven''t grown into the shape of a woman is because of its existence. Of course, whether you can impregnate a woman also depends on this thing. Your seed also comes from here."


    "Hiss."


    In the classroom, the students of the Imperial Academy listened to these shocking and unconventional statements, each one gasping in disbelief, looking at each other, feeling as if their entire worldview had collapsed.


    "Next, we''ve finished with men, let''s talk about women."


    As he said this, Li Ziye''s smile on his face gradually became radiant, eerie, and twisted.


    Below, many students of the Imperial Academy heard this and their eyes immediately began to gleam.

 Chapter 75 – Qing Qing Enters the City

    Imperial Academy, North Courtyard Classroom.


    Li Ziye''s class on personal hygiene caused a sensation throughout the Imperial Academy.


    Students from the North, West, and South courtyards were all drawn to it.


    Inside and outside the classroom, it was packed with people.


    Just as Li Ziye was about to take out a diagram of a woman''s reproductive system and use his ultimate move, urgent footsteps were heard from outside.


    "Head Confucian Instructor."


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    Many students from the Imperial Academy saw the newcomer and were immediately shocked, respectfully bowing and making way.


    Behind the Head Confucian Instructor, a few old instructors followed. When they saw the images posted in Li Ziye''s classroom, the Head Confucian Instructor''s face turned red with anger.


    This is an insult to the culture, an insult!


    Beside the Head Confucian Instructor, Bai Wangyu quietly gave Li Ziye a meaningful look, meaning, "Good luck to you."


    Li Ziye also returned a look, then grinned, meaning, "Who cares!"


    "Instructor Li, come out for a moment."


    In front of the classroom, the Head Confucian Instructor spoke politely.


    "Students, please wait a moment. This instructor will be right back."


    Li Ziye glanced at the students in the classroom, then calmly walked out.


    Outside the classroom, the Head Confucian Instructor looked around and said in a low voice, "Kid, what are you doing? This is the Imperial Academy, not a brothel!"


    "The Confucian Scholar said that as long as there are students willing to listen, I can teach whatever I want." Li Ziye grinned.


    The Head Confucian Instructor felt a pang in his chest. This kid actually dared to use the Confucian Scholar''s words to pressure him!


    On the side, Bai Wangyu wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. This guy is really out of control now, and he can''t be restrained.


    If he had known that this guy had been messing around with this during the days when Li Yuan was in seclusion, he would have said that this kid couldn''t come.


    Now, the joke in the Imperial Academy has become a big deal. If today''s events spread, I''m afraid the entire capital city will know about it.


    "Give me some face, and we''ll end it here today." The Head Confucian Instructor suppressed his anger and said.


    "But the class is only halfway through." Li Ziye looked embarrassed.


    "What do you want?" The Head Confucian Instructor asked directly.


    "Give me a Medicinal King plant." Li Ziye made a bold request.


    "The Imperial Academy only has one Medicinal King plant, and it''s already been given to you!" The Head Confucian Instructor lowered his voice and said angrily.


    "Oh, the students are still waiting for me to go back to class."


    After speaking, Li Ziye turned and was about to walk back into the classroom.


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    The Head Confucian Instructor immediately reached out and stopped him. Although he was burning with anger, he had to temporarily agree, and said in a deep voice, "As for the Medicinal King plant, I and the other instructors will figure it out. You should stop the class for now."


    "You should have said so earlier."


    Li Ziye chuckled lightly, then stepped back into the classroom.


    Below, the expectant and embarrassed gazes of the students, Li Ziye put away all the images and grinned, "Class dismissed!"


    As soon as the words fell, all the students in the Imperial Academy were stunned.


    Dismissed? Is it over?


    What about the next lesson on women''s reproductive health?


    Fraud!


    The students in the Imperial Academy came to their senses and were all angry!


    After waiting for so long, is this it?


    Li Ziye felt the burning anger from the people below, and didn''t dare to stay any longer, turning around and leaving.


    "Old Bai, let''s go!"


    Outside the classroom, Li Ziye gave Bai Wangyu a look, indicating that they should leave quickly.


    "Head Confucian, all the instructors, this disciple will go back first."


    After receiving Li Ziye''s signal, Bai Wangyu bowed and then quickly followed.


    On the way.


    "Brother Li, have you gone crazy!"


    Bai Wangyu complained, "Didn''t we agree not to mess around?"


    "I didn''t mess around!" Li Ziye replied, "The class on personal hygiene is a very scientific and solemn course. I think it''s necessary to continue teaching this class."


    "You want to continue?" Bai Wangyu was shocked, "Aren''t you afraid of the instructors beating you up?"


    "Is the Head Confucian more important, or the Confucian Scholar?" Li Ziye asked.


    "Of course, it''s the Confucian Scholar." Bai Wangyu replied.


    "Then that''s it. The Confucian Scholar agreed that I can teach whatever I want. If the four instructors have any objections, they can go to the Confucian Scholar!" Li Ziye grinned.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu didn''t know how to refute.


    Eastern Courtyard of the Imperial Academy.


    In front of the Confucian Scholar''s small courtyard, the four instructors gathered.


    "Confucian Scholar!"


    The Head Confucian Instructor said urgently, "We can''t let that kid continue to mess around like this. The students of the Imperial Academy are all the pillars of our Great Shang. If that kid keeps playing around, it won''t be long before the Imperial Academy becomes a laughingstock in the eyes of the world."


    "What you said is true, Head Confucian." The other three instructors echoed.


    "Is it really as exaggerated as you all say?"


    Inside the courtyard, Kong Qiu watered the vegetables with a ladle, and replied.


    "Confucian Scholar, the most important thing in our Confucian School is etiquette, but the actions of that kid are truly against the teachings. Even if the Confucian Scholar loves talent, he can''t let that kid do as he pleases." The Head Confucian Instructor was a little anxious as he spoke."Um..."


    Kong Qiu thought for a moment and nodded, "You make a good point. How about this, you have Wangyu bring that kid here, and I''ll talk to him."


    "Yes!"


    The Confucian scholar glanced at the other three elders and respectfully agreed.


    Two days later.


    "No, Confucian Scholar, you can''t go back on your word."


    Li Ziye pulled a radish out of the vegetable garden, washed it with clean water, and sat on the ground, nibbling on it as he spoke.


    "All four elders have come to me, and I can''t pretend I didn''t hear them. You have to give me some face."


    Kong Qiu looked at the small, unripe radish in Li Ziye''s hand with a hint of heartache.


    "Confucian Scholar, those four old men are too rigid. Do you know why the maternal mortality rate is so high in this world? It''s because no one has ever taught them about reproductive health."


    Li Ziye took a bite of the radish and continued, "I''m saving lives, the class must go on."


    "Is it necessary?"


    Kong Qiu asked with a slightly surprised expression.


    "Of course it''s necessary," Li Ziye nodded.


    "Alright then."


    After thinking for a moment, Kong Qiu said, "You can continue with this class, but make it a bit more discreet. Don''t be so explicit, after all, this is not your era, and many things are still unacceptable to the world."


    "More discreet?"


    Li Ziye heard this and rubbed his chin, "That''s very challenging, Confucian Scholar. I''ve encountered a bottleneck in my recent cultivation. The Flying Immortal Technique is too difficult to practice, and I have no other martial arts to practice. What do you think?"


    "You can learn the martial arts of the Confucian School at will."


    Kong Qiu understood and replied with a smile.


    "It''s tiring to study martial arts while preparing lessons for students. It really hinders my own progress in martial arts," Li Ziye continued.


    "You can take the elixirs of the Confucian School as you please."


    Kong Qiu replied, then added, "However, those elixirs are difficult to refine, so don''t overdo it to avoid causing public outrage."


    "Confucian Scholar, you really have foresight. Why can you be the leader of the Confucian School, but those old men can''t? This is the difference, the gap in vision!" Li Ziye stood up, feeling great, and handed the half radish in his hand to Kong Qiu, "Do you want to eat? It tastes good."


    "No, thank you."


    Kong Qiu''s mouth twitched and he said, "Go back now, Wangyu is still waiting for you."


    "Alright, goodbye."


    Li Ziye took back his radish, waved his hand casually, and walked out of the courtyard.


    In the courtyard, Kong Qiu watched the young man leave with a pensive look on his aging face.


    Perhaps, the young master of the Li Family was right.


    Sometimes, experiencing pain firsthand is the only way to understand the value of peace.


    Outside the small courtyard, Bai Wangyu saw Li Ziye walk out and asked curiously, "Did the Confucian Scholar agree?"


    "Of course."


    Li Ziye nodded, "I can persuade people with virtue and reason. How could the Confucian Scholar not agree?"


    "Wow."


    Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but gasp in disbelief, "Did the Confucian Scholar really agree to let you continue teaching that class?"


    "It''s true. Do you think I could lie to you about something like this?"


    Li Ziye said confidently.


    Bai Wangyu felt a headache coming on. What was happening to the world all of a sudden?


    "Princess Qing Qing is about to enter the city!"


    As they walked, a few students from the Imperial Academy hurriedly passed by from behind, saying excitedly, "It''s rumored that Princess Qing Qing is the second most beautiful woman in our Great Shang, second only to the Ninth Princess in the palace."


    "Princess Qing Qing is entering the city?"


    Li Ziye heard the students'' words and was taken aback, then he grabbed the little red hat next to him and hurried forward, "Let''s go, let''s go see too."


    He loved to join in the excitement like this!


    ...


    Outside the West City Gate, a grand procession of carriages arrived. The Southwest Prince, Zhu Qingge, had already gone to greet them, leading his guards to guide his sister into the capital.


    "We can''t even see what Princess Qing Qing looks like!"On either side of the street, Li Ziye stood on tiptoes, peering towards the carriage in the middle, grumbling discontentedly.


    "Brother Li, Princess Qing Qing is still an unmarried lady; of course, she wouldn''t show her face in public."


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu said helplessly.


    "I see her, I see her, Princess Qing Qing is so beautiful!"


    Before Little Red Riding Hood could finish speaking, Li Ziye''s eyes suddenly lit up, and he began to shout like an idiot, almost drooling.


    In the midst of the procession, Princess Qing Qing lifted the curtain of her carriage, looking towards the back of the line.


    Her exquisite beauty was breathtaking, dazzling all onlookers on the street.


    Next to Li Ziye, Bai Wangyu discreetly moved a bit away, really not wanting to be too close to this fool.


    It was too embarrassing!


    "Hm?"


    Suddenly, Bai Wangyu''s body shook as if he sensed something, his gaze shifting across the street.


    There, behind the crowd on the opposite side of the street, stood a young, fair-skinned novice monk, the Buddhist mark on his forehead bright and captivating, like a flickering flame seizing the soul.


    "Buddhist Disciple, San Zang!"


    Upon seeing the Buddhist mark on the novice''s forehead, Bai Wangyu''s expression immediately turned solemn.


    How did he also come here?

 Chapter 76 – San Zang is here

    In the capital city, Qing Qing entered the city with a grand escort from the Southwest King''s son, creating a grand scene.


    Li Ziye''s attention was completely captivated by Princess Qing Qing, with a look of infatuation on his face and drool almost dripping from his mouth.


    "Brother Li."


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu tugged at his sleeve and said, "Look over there."


    "I don''t want to look, I want to look at the beauty."


    Li Ziye''s gaze was fixed on Princess Qing Qing in the carriage, and his face became more and more infatuated. If it weren''t for the crowd blocking his way, he might have rushed up to her.


    "The Buddhist disciple is over there."


    Bai Wangyu tugged at his sleeve again and reminded him.


    "What''s wrong with the Buddhist disciple? He''s not the Buddha."


    Li Ziye casually replied, then suddenly, his expression changed and he asked, "Who are you talking about?"


    "The Buddhist disciple, San Zang!"


    Bai Wangyu said in a serious tone, "He''s right over there."


    Li Ziye followed the gaze of the little red hat and saw the fair-skinned little monk behind the crowd.


    "Is he the Buddhist disciple?"


    Li Ziye asked in surprise, "Why does he look like a child?"


    "The Buddhist nature is pure and innocent, so his appearance will also be younger."


    Bai Wangyu said in a serious tone, "However, although he looks like a child, he is actually slightly older than Brother Li. Of course, his understanding and cultivation are far superior to Brother Li''s, and he is no less than that Yan Xiaoyu."


    "You don''t have to say the last sentence."


    Li Ziye gritted his teeth and said, "This guy, if you want to praise someone, just praise them directly. Why compare him to others?"


    "Do you not find it strange, Brother Li, why did San Zang come to the capital city of Great Shang?" Bai Wangyu asked.


    "It''s none of my business whether he comes or not."


    Li Ziye said impatiently, "The Qingdeng Temple and the Southwest King''s Mansion are not far away. Maybe this little monk also admires Princess Qing Qing. I heard that Princess Qing Qing is going to get married, so he came here to seek life and death?"


    "Don''t talk nonsense."


    Bai Wangyu said, "This San Zang is known as a rare genius of the Qingdeng Temple in a hundred years. His understanding of Buddhism is extremely high, and he is almost certain to become the next generation of the Western Buddha. How could he possibly have ulterior motives?"


    "You don''t understand this."


    Li Ziye heard the nonsense from the little red hat and smirked, "Think about it, in the deep mountains and ancient temples, the little monk has not seen women for years. Suddenly he meets a girl like Princess Qing Qing, who is like a heavenly immortal. How could he not be moved? They are both young people, and there''s nothing wrong with them physically, you know."


    At the end, Li Ziye''s smile became very mischievous!


    Of course, all of this was made up by Li Ziye. Whether San Zang had ulterior motives or not was none of his business.


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu, having heard Li Ziye''s nonsense, didn''t want to talk anymore. This guy, he didn''t know where the conversation was going.


    "Buddhist disciple!"


    Li Ziye, who was bored and not afraid of causing trouble, suddenly shouted at the little monk across the street, "Hello!"


    Immediately, Bai Wangyu, as well as San Zang on the other side, were all startled.


    "Brother Li, you!"


    Bai Wangyu was so angry that he couldn''t speak.


    On the other side, San Zang saw the young man waving at him and was surprised. How could anyone here know him?


    This is bad!


    "Stop the carriage!"


    On the carriage, Princess Qing Qing heard Li Ziye''s shout and immediately got off the carriage, searching through the crowd.


    In an instant, when their eyes met, tears welled up in Princess Qing Qing''s beautiful eyes.


    He''s here!


    It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from ".


    Behind the crowd, San Zang subconsciously avoided the girl''s gaze, not knowing what to do.


    "Oh no, really?"


    On the other side, Li Ziye saw this scene and couldn''t believe it. Did he really hit the mark?


    There''s something fishy, no, a private relationship!


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu was also slightly stunned. He wasn''t a fool and could see that the relationship between Princess Qing Qing and San Zang was not ordinary.


    "Old Bai, from now on, please call me the Cupid of Yuzhou!"


    Li Ziye licked his lips and said, originally bored and wanting to tease the little monk for some fun, but he didn''t expect to stir up such an exciting scene.


    A princess and a Buddhist disciple?


    A girl and a little monk?


    Just thinking about it was very exciting!


    As he thought about it, Li Ziye''s smile became mischievous again.


    "Qing Qing."


    In front of the group, the Southwest King''s son, Zhu Qingge, dismounted and came to the middle of the group, looking at his sister in confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    Qing Qing came to her senses and was about to say something, but she found that the familiar figure behind the crowd had disappeared.


    "The little monk."


    Qing Qing became a little anxious and walked towards the crowd.


    "Qing Qing!"


    Zhu Qingge hurriedly followed, grabbing her and saying, "What little monk? Where did a monk come from in the capital city of Great Shang?"


    Qing Qing ignored him and anxiously searched through the crowd, but she couldn''t find any trace of the little monk.


    "What a pity."


    On the other side, Li Ziye watched this scene and sighed, "Such a lovely girl, how could she be snatched away by a pig." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Brother Li, let''s go."


    Beside him, Bai Wangyu pulled him away and walked towards the crowd.


    "Where are we going? I haven''t seen enough yet," Li Ziye asked.


    "I''ll tell you later."Bai Wangyu responded with a quick step forward.


    In the abandoned and dilapidated courtyard to the west of the city, San Zang sat quietly, taking out a hard piece of cake and nibbling on it.


    At this moment, Bai Wangyu and Li Ziye walked into the courtyard.


    Inside the broken courtyard, San Zang heard the movement outside and was surprised. Were there other people living in this abandoned courtyard?


    "Creak!"


    At the next moment, the door of the broken courtyard was pushed open, and Bai Wangyu and Li Ziye walked in.


    The three of them looked at each other, and San Zang immediately recognized the brocade-robed young man in front of him as the one who had just revealed his identity.


    "Buddhist disciple San Zang?"


    Bai Wangyu spoke, her voice firm.


    "And who are you two?" San Zang asked, puzzled.


    "I am Bai Wangyu of the Confucian School."


    Bai Wangyu introduced herself and then looked at the person beside her, saying, "This is Li Ziye of the Li Family in Yuzhou City."


    "Namaste, may I ask what business the two of you have with this humble monk?" San Zang asked respectfully.


    "San Zang."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "Is your surname Tang?"


    San Zang was taken aback by the question, but still respectfully replied, "This monk has no name or surname. San Zang is my Buddhist name."


    "Brother Li, don''t interrupt."


    Bai Wangyu said helplessly, looking at the young monk in front of her and asking, "Why did the Buddhist disciple suddenly come to the capital of Great Shang? The people here do not believe in Buddhism, and the Buddhist disciple should be aware of that."


    San Zang fell silent, then said softly, "This monk came here for some personal matters, which are not convenient to discuss with the two benefactors."


    "Princess Qing Qing is about to get married."


    Li Ziye, with his sharp tongue, spoke at the right time to hurt.


    San Zang''s body shook, and his expression became somewhat unnatural.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye''s face showed a very kind smile and said, "Little monk, do you have a place to stay? This is not a Buddhist country, and there are no temples here."


    "I can stay here." San Zang replied.


    "What will you eat?" Li Ziye asked, looking at the dry cake in San Zang''s hand.


    "I can rely on alms." San Zang replied.


    "That''s not nutritious. Come to Li Garden, where you can eat and stay." Li Ziye grinned, revealing his true nature.


    On the side, Bai Wangyu opened his mouth to say something but then swallowed his words.


    It''s better to bring this Buddhist disciple to Li Garden. If anything happens, he can find out in advance.


    San Zang shook his head gently and said, "Thank you for your kindness, but I will stay here and not cause any trouble."


    "What if the owner of this courtyard comes back?" Li Ziye''s mouth curved into a smile as he began to deceive, "This is considered illegal entry, and in our Great Shang, it is a violation of the law. The officials will come to arrest you soon."


    San Zang looked hesitant and subconsciously looked at the senior disciple of the Confucian School in front of him. He had never been to Great Shang and was not familiar with its laws.


    Bai Wangyu glanced over but did not make eye contact with the young monk. He couldn''t ruin Brother Li''s plan, or else this guy would definitely not let him off the hook.


    "Let''s go. Since your identity has been exposed, it''s better to stay at Li Garden. You don''t want the officials to come looking for you every now and then, do you?" Li Ziye continued.


    San Zang''s face showed a struggle, and after a long time, he finally compromised, respectfully bowing and saying, "I will trouble the benefactor then."


    Seeing this, Li Ziye gave Bai Wangyu a meaningful look, as if to say, "See, I''m amazing, I''ve deceived another one."


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu didn''t want to pay attention.


    An hour later, at Li Garden, Li Ziye returned with two bodyguards.


    In the mansion, the pretty little maidservants were delighted to see the little monk brought back by the young master.


    What a cute little monk!


    Not far away, Hong Zhu, who was idly holding a plate of fruit, saw Li Ziye bring back another person, and her expression became somewhat strange.


    This kid, why does he keep bringing back monks, and they''re all male?


    Does Li Ziye have some special preference?


    Thinking of this, Hong Zhu felt a chill in her heart and quickly left, keeping her distance from the three of them.


    Li Ziye looked at Hong Zhu''s hurried departure with a puzzled expression.


    What''s wrong with Sister Hong Zhu? Is she having her period?


    In the west wing, Li Ziye arranged a room for San Zang, then nudged Bai Wangyu with his elbow and whispered, "Old Bai, it''s up to you. Don''t let this little lamb slip away. You have to coax something out of him, like a relic or a secret Buddhist technique."


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu regretted deeply. How did he end up knowing such a guy!


    "I''m going to prepare my lesson. Tomorrow, I plan to pull off a big move."


    Saying this, Li Ziye''s face lit up with an extremely bright smile as he walked out of the west wing.


    At the same time, in the imperial palace, in the Shou''an Hall.An elderly eunuch entered, bowing respectfully, "Your Majesty, Princess Qing Qing has entered the city."


    On the bed, the Merchant Emperor held a chess piece, gazing at the chessboard before him, and calmly said, "I see, you may leave."


    "Yes!"


    The eunuch took the order and turned to leave.


    "Mu Yuan, let your father see just how much you''ve been holding back."


    The Merchant Emperor let out a cold laugh, and as the chess piece in his hand was placed down, the entire black piece silently split apart, crumbling into dust.

 Chapter 77 – Omen of Polar Night

    "Lecturer Li is starting class!"


    "Lecturer Li is starting class, hurry!"


    "Exciting, isn''t it?"


    "What do you think? Hurry, there won''t be any seats left if you''re late!"


    At the Imperial Academy, in the northern courtyard classroom, most of the students hurriedly rushed over just to grab a good spot.


    In the classroom, Li Ziye held a self-made insulated tea cup, pretended to blow on it, took a sip of tea, then pursed his lips and spat the tea leaves back into the cup.


    "Yuck!"


    Instantly, many of the Imperial Academy students below were almost sick to their stomachs.


    Li Ziye looked down at the students in front of him with disdain. This was the standard tea-drinking action for a teacher. What do you know!


    "Alright, let''s begin the class!"


    Seeing that almost everyone had arrived, Li Ziye put down the tea cup and said, "Today, I will continue the previous lesson on personal hygiene."


    Below, dozens of Imperial Academy students'' eyes immediately lit up at the mention of the topic.


    Outside the classroom, many students who hadn''t secured a spot were also eagerly waiting for this moment.


    Li Ziye took out a sketch and pinned it to a wooden frame, grinning as he said, "Due to pressure from above, we will be using stick figures today. You can imagine the specific details yourselves."


    "Damn!"


    The students below couldn''t help but curse when they saw the simple outline of a woman on the sketch. They felt cheated!


    Disappointed, the crowd immediately got up to leave.


    "Alright, everyone can leave!"


    Seeing the situation, Li Ziye didn''t stop them and picked up his insulated cup again, taking another sip of tea. "I was actually going to teach you some tips on having sons."


    "Huh?"


    The students who were about to leave were taken aback by his words and looked at the young man in front of them with suspicion.


    Tips on having sons?


    "L-Lecturer Li, is that true?"


    A slightly older student opened his mouth and then asked with determination. He had been married to his wife for a while and had already had two daughters, but he had never been able to have a son, which had always been a sore spot for him. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of course it''s true."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "Have I ever lied to you?"


    The crowd looked at each other and simultaneously flashed a look of disdain. He had stood them up in the previous class!


    "Cough! Cough!"


    Li Ziye also realized that he seemed to have fooled these guys and coughed lightly to cover up his embarrassment. He looked ahead and said, "Let''s continue the class. Do you know who determines whether a child is a boy or a girl?"


    "Of course it''s determined by the wife!"


    A student below replied, and the entire class burst into laughter.


    "Vulgar."


    Li Ziye said disdainfully, then felt unsatisfied and added, "Ignorant!"


    "Lecturer Li, are you saying that if a man can''t have a son, it''s the man''s fault?" The student who had spoken before was not convinced.


    "You got it right."


    Li Ziye looked at the students below and said, "If you can''t have a son, it''s your fault, and it has nothing to do with your wife."


    "How is that possible!"


    "Lecturer Li, you can''t just say that."


    The classroom suddenly became heated, and the students refused to accept it.


    In an era of male superiority and female inferiority, it was not easy for men to admit their mistakes. Moreover, not having a son was a big mistake. How could these proud students accept it?


    Li Ziye took a sip of tea from his insulated cup, then spat out the tea leaves again, following the proper teacher''s tea-drinking process.


    The students below, who were still spouting nonsense, were suddenly too disgusted to speak.


    "Aren''t you going to speak?"


    Seeing the situation, Li Ziye put down the insulated cup and said, "Then I''ll continue."


    "Clap!"


    Li Ziye took out another sketch and pinned it to the wooden frame. "First, let''s talk about the determining factor for the gender of a child. Yes, it''s the chromosome."


    "Chromosome?"


    The people below were stunned at the mention of this, wondering what it was.


    "You bunch of useless people, you obviously didn''t pay attention in my previous classes."


    Li Ziye scolded them and continued, "Chromosomes are similar to the Genuine Qi you cultivate when practicing martial arts. You can''t see or touch them, but they really exist. Men have XY chromosomes, and women have XX chromosomes. When you and your wife have a child, the chromosomes in your bodies will split in half and then recombine freely to form a pair. So, if you don''t provide the Y chromosome, how can your wife have a son?"


    "This!"


    The students in the classroom listened to this unheard-of statement and looked at each other in disbelief.


    This was too shocking and outrageous!


    "Lecturer Li, we''ve never heard of these things before!"


    A student questioned, "Could it be that you made it up?"


    "Good question."


    Li Ziye grinned and said, "Learning means learning to question. These statements were told to me by the Confucian Scholar, and I also thought it was nonsense. How about we go ask the Confucian Scholar together?"


    "Hiss!"The people below heard the words and immediately took another breath of cold air, shaking their heads, "No, no!"


    Li Ziye looked at the group of cowards in front of him, sneering in his heart, "I don''t believe it, I can''t cure you."


    I don''t believe you really dare to ask the Confucian Scholar.


    "Instructor Li, how can we have a son?"


    Among the dozens of Imperial Academy students, someone was more concerned about this issue and hurriedly asked.


    "Eat more alkaline foods."


    Li Ziye began to talk nonsense in a serious manner, "The Y chromosome likes an alkaline environment. Eating more alkaline foods is beneficial to the survival of the Y chromosome, and the probability of having a son can also be increased."


    "What are alkaline foods?"


    The students below listened with confusion, asking as if they understood.


    "This involves trade secrets."


    Li Family grinned and said, "The Li Family will soon launch a medicinal diet formula that can increase the probability of having a son. Of course, it only increases the possibility, and it does not work for everyone. Also, there is no gender discrimination. If you don¡¯t urgently need a son, there is no need to buy it."


    "Where can I buy it?"


    The students below were all wealthy and immediately asked.


    "Not available yet."


    Li Ziye smiled, "And because the medicinal materials and ingredients are very precious, even if it is officially launched, there will be quantity restrictions, and it is not possible for everyone to buy it."


    The people below heard this and looked at each other. Can''t even buy it with money?


    Li Ziye looked at the expressions of the people below, his mouth slightly curved.


    These guys, don''t they understand the concept of scarcity marketing? The more I don''t let you buy it, the more active you will be when the time comes.


    By the way, the Confucian Scholar''s sign is really useful. Should I invite this great god to the Li Family shop for some publicity?


    Half an hour later, many students finished their classes and left. Li Ziye sat calmly in front of the painting, drinking tea. After standing for an hour, his waist was sore.


    "Brother Li, did the Confucian Scholar really tell you all this?" Bai Wangyu walked over and asked curiously.


    "You can go ask the Confucian Scholar and find out," Li Ziye replied.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu also sat down without saying a word. This kid knows he doesn''t dare.


    "Old Bai, am I a business genius?" Li Ziye smiled triumphantly.


    "Will they really buy it?" Bai Wangyu asked in confusion, "Brother Li already said that the medicinal diet may not work."


    "That''s exactly why they will buy it," Li Ziye laughed, "People have a mentality of luck and rebellion. If I tell them it will definitely work, they won''t believe it and will suspect that I am advertising. But if I say that it doesn''t work for everyone, they will try it. The more you don''t let them do something, the more they will want to do it. Just watch, when the Li Family shop launches this medicinal diet, it will be full of customers."


    "Brother Li, you really are a cunning merchant," Bai Wangyu couldn''t help but say.


    "Thank you for the compliment!" Li Ziye grinned, unashamedly responding.


    "..."


    Bai Wangyu really didn''t know what this kid''s thick skin was made of.


    "Let''s go home and chat with the little monk, see if we can get some good stuff out of him."


    Li Ziye had rested enough and stood up, walking out of the classroom.


    Meanwhile, in the Desert North, the northern part of the Central Plains, the Mo Bei Eight Tribes lived here all year round, each with their own territory.


    And on this day, at the northernmost part of Mo Bei, near the polar region, the territory of the Hu Yan tribe, night suddenly fell, as if the endless night divided the heavens and the earth.


    The shepherds of the Hu Yan tribe didn''t take it seriously at first, until...


    The monsters arrived!


    The monsters shrouded in black mist, numbering in the hundreds, appeared from the depths of the night, crazily preying on the shepherds on the grasslands.


    In one night, the grassland flowed with blood.


    The northernmost branch of the Hu Yan tribe was wiped out in one night.


    "Great Sovereign, there are monsters!"


    A man covered in blood, who had survived by chance, rode a horse to the tent of the Great Sovereign of the Hu Yan tribe, and then passed out due to exhaustion.


    Half a day later, the young man woke up and hurriedly told the tribe what had happened, causing a stir throughout the Hu Yan tribe.


    Some believed, some didn''t. The Great Sovereign of the Hu Yan tribe immediately sent people to investigate. In less than a day, the people who went to investigate returned and told everyone present what they had seen in the tribe.


    Shocked, they were all shocked!


    The tribe was full of white bones, with no survivors, extremely tragic, exactly like the legendary scene of monsters eating people!


    "Immediately contact the Great Sovereigns of other tribes to discuss the matter of resisting the monsters!" The Great Sovereign of the Hu Yan tribe made a decisive decision and said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    For a while, the entire Hu Yan tribe at the northernmost part of Mo Bei began to be on guard.


    However, the news from Mo Bei did not reach Great Shang until nearly a month later.


    Back in Li Garden, Li Ziye returned from the Imperial Academy and had been pestering the little monk, claiming to exchange martial arts knowledge.


    Of course, exchanging martial arts was a lie. The real goal was to find a way to coax some secret techniques from San Zang of the Buddhist Sect.Old Li had his own set of troubles, indeed. The Fei Xian Jue was simply too difficult to master; the complexity of each move doubled in difficulty. By the fourth stance, just the footwork alone consisted of thirty-six steps, practicing it nearly made Li Ziye cough up blood.


    In his spare time, Li Ziye naturally wanted to extort some powerful techniques to have up his sleeve.


    After all, one cannot have too many skills!


    "Bang!"


    A quarter of an hour later, Li Ziye fell off the wall, crashing onto the ground like a paper doll.


    "Amitabha!"


    Seeing this, San Zang hurried over, apologizing anxiously, "This humble monk did not do it on purpose."


    "Ouch, my bones! My vertebrae, my lumbar disc!"


    Li Ziye lay on the ground, rolling and crying out, "Little monk, you must compensate me!"

 Chapter 78 – The Strongest Turtle Shell in History

    Li Yuan, San Zang looked at the young man rolling on the ground, his forehead covered in cold sweat, not knowing what to do for a moment.


    He didn''t know that the young master of the Li family was so weak!


    Wasn''t the young master of the Li family a disciple of the Plum Blossom Sword Immortal?


    "Master Li."


    San Zang urgently said, "This monk has no money, how can I compensate Master Li?"


    On the ground, Li Ziye heard this and immediately stopped acting spoiled, grinning and said, "Teach me a move."


    San Zang was taken aback, and after a moment, he put his palms together and recited the Buddhist chant, "Amitabha, Brother Li, the martial arts of the Qingdeng Temple cannot be passed on."


    "Ah, my lumbar disc!"


    Li Ziye rolled on the ground again.


    Outside the west wing, Bai Wangyu floated over and saw the scene inside, saying lightly, "San Zang, I advise you to teach him a move, otherwise, this matter will definitely not end."


    San Zang looked embarrassed, and after a long time, gritted his teeth and said, "Then Master Li must promise not to pass on the techniques of our Qingdeng Temple."


    "I swear on my life."


    Li Ziye lay on the ground, holding up four fingers, solemnly swearing.


    "Alright, Master Li, what technique do you want to learn?" San Zang asked.


    Li Ziye heard this and looked at the little red hat not far away, gesturing with his eyes, meaning, which one to learn?


    Bai Wangyu understood and mouthed, "Bodhi Three Degrees."


    "I want to learn Bodhi Three Degrees."


    Li Ziye immediately repeated after seeing this.


    "This..."


    San Zang looked even more embarrassed after hearing this.


    "Ah, my cranial vault!"


    Li Ziye continued to roll on the ground.


    "Alright."


    Seeing this, San Zang quickly agreed and said, "But I can only teach one move."


    "Stingy."


    Li Ziye, having achieved his goal, grumbled and got up, walked to the little monk, coughed, and said, "I''ve made up my mind, I want to learn the Mirror of Truth!"


    San Zang nodded at this and looked at Bai Wangyu not far away.


    "I''ll leave."


    Bai Wangyu immediately turned and left the west wing.


    "Amitabha."


    Seeing the senior disciple of the Confucian School leave, San Zang put his palms together and recited a Buddhist chant, saying, "Master Li, you must pay attention, this move is not easy to learn. Next, this monk will teach you the starting posture and the method of guiding the meridians. Remember, you cannot make any mistakes."


    "Understood!"


    Li Ziye nodded, looking excitedly at the little monk in front of him.


    Absolute defense, sounds very cool.


    "Bodhi Three Degrees!"


    In the courtyard, San Zang shouted, and in an instant, golden light shone all over his body, and two divine techniques were revived, erupting with a thunderous sound, and vigorous genuine Qi burst forth.


    "Mirror of Truth!"


    San Zang flipped his palm, and the Buddha''s light shone, boundless genuine Qi rose and turned into Buddha''s light, which then turned into a golden wave, forming a protective mirror-like light around him, shining brightly and dazzling.


    "I''ll test its power."


    Seeing this, Li Ziye''s face showed excitement, then drew the Pure Jun Sword and stabbed directly.


    "Clang!"


    The sound of metal clashing rang out, and Li Ziye felt a numbness in his arm. The sharpness of the Pure Jun Sword was difficult to penetrate.


    "What a hard shell."


    Feeling the power of this move, Li Ziye was greatly excited. With this move, he wouldn''t be afraid of being beaten in the future.


    "Master Li, remember, all defensive moves have their limits, and the Mirror of Truth is no exception. Don''t be reckless just because you have this move, and try to block all the attacks of your opponent." San Zang put away the Buddha''s light and earnestly admonished.


    "Rest assured, I understand this principle." Li Ziye nodded vigorously.


    "This monk will teach Master Li the method of guiding the meridians."


    As he spoke, San Zang stepped forward, placed his hand on Li Ziye''s chest, and suddenly, genuine Qi surged in, leaving a mark of guiding the meridians in his meridians.


    After a while, San Zang withdrew his hand and looked at the young man in front of him, somewhat surprised. "Master Li has only opened up four meridians?"


    "Sorry, sorry."


    Li Ziye smiled awkwardly. Was it embarrassing to have only opened up four meridians?


    "Amitabha."


    San Zang recited the Buddhist chant and said, "This monk has taught Master Li the method of guiding the meridians. Next, Master Li will have to practice on his own. This monk has some other matters to attend to, so I will leave for a while."


    After speaking, San Zang bowed respectfully again and left the west wing.


    After San Zang left, Bai Wangyu returned to the west wing, puzzled, "Where did he go?"


    "I don''t know, he didn''t say, probably went to find Princess Qingqing."


    Li Ziye responded indifferently, then excitedly said, "Old Bai, I''ve learned it, let me show you."


    After that, Li Ziye operated his genuine Qi according to the method of guiding the meridians left by the little monk, and in an instant, a weak light that was almost invisible appeared, turning into bubbles and protecting his body.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu stepped forward, extended a finger, and lightly poked it.


    "Bang!"


    An embarrassing scene occurred, Li Ziye''s protective Qi bubble burst with a sound, turning into starlight and dissipating.


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    Li Ziye and Bai Wangyu were both silent, not knowing what to say.


    After a moment, Bai Wangyu, afraid that the atmosphere would be too awkward, encouraged, "Brother Li, don''t be discouraged. Maybe with more practice in the future, this protective genuine Qi will become indestructible.""Hehe."


    Li Ziye let out a soulless chuckle, his voice dripping with disdain, "Hypocrite!"


    "Let''s do this."


    Bai Wangyu spoke, "Since the Confucian Scholar has also agreed that Brother Li can learn all the techniques of the Confucian School, I will teach Brother Li the defensive moves from the Vast Chapter. Perhaps, practicing two sets of defensive martial arts together will provide Brother Li with more insights."


    "That makes sense."


    Li Ziye stroked his chin and nodded, "I will learn both martial arts. Later on, when I go out, I''ll wear a golden silk soft armor or some other precious armor. I''d like to see who can break through my shell then."


    Bai Wangyu chuckled lightly, stepped forward, and with a focused gesture, channeled his qi. In an instant, the righteous energy of the Vast Chapter surged and poured into the chest of the former.


    "This move is called Vast Righteous Qi, and it shares the same ingenious principles with the Buddhist Sect''s Clear Mirror Stand."


    While speaking, Bai Wangyu left traces of the meridian pathways inside Li Ziye''s body, helping him to learn this absolute defensive move from the Vast Chapter.


    The meridian pathways of the two martial arts were imprinted inside his body at the same time, and immediately, the Genuine Qi began to circulate automatically under the guidance of the two breaths. Li Ziye felt it and immediately sat down cross-legged to carefully comprehend the profound mysteries of the two martial arts.


    Bai Wangyu stepped back and watched the youth before him, with flickers of light passing through his eyes.


    There were others who practiced both Buddhist and Confucian techniques, but none had ever learned both the Vast Chapter and the Bodhi Three Degrees at the same time.


    These two supreme martial arts of Buddhism and Confucianism, along with the original Sword God''s Divine Hidden Technique, complemented each other in offense and defense. Perhaps, Brother Li was embarking on an unprecedented path of martial arts.


    "Om!"


    At this moment, the two Divine Hidden Techniques within Li Ziye began to awaken, rumbling faintly into existence.


    Buddhist light and Vast Righteous Qi alternated in appearance, and although both were very weak, they were gradually taking shape.


    Seeing this, Bai Wangyu''s face revealed a trace of joy.


    He could succeed!


    His greatest concern just now was that the two martial arts would conflict with each other. Now it seemed he had worried unnecessarily.


    Perhaps, the martial arts of both Buddhism and Confucianism were meant to converge despite their different paths.


    Half an hour later, Li Ziye opened his eyes, and a golden and a white light flashed by.


    "Old Bai, quick, try it out."


    Li Ziye jumped up excitedly, "I think I''ve found the trick."


    "How much of your strength will you use?" Bai Wangyu asked.


    "All of it."


    Li Ziye replied, then added, "But don''t hit the vital spots."


    "Alright!"


    Bai Wangyu nodded, flipped his palm to Condense Qi, and Genuine Qi surged, secretly holding back three-tenths of his strength.


    "Ha!"


    Seeing this, Li Ziye shouted deeply, Genuine Qi swirling around him, and Vast Righteous Qi emerged in response.


    "Come on!"


    "Alright!"


    Bai Wangyu responded and struck out with his palm.


    Instantly, a tumultuous wave, like a raging torrent, roared down upon him.


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    "Well done."


    Having acquired two peerless martial arts, Li Ziye''s confidence soared, and he used the Vast Righteous Qi to withstand the incoming attack.


    Bang!


    A loud noise was heard as the Vast Righteous Qi shattered on cue, unable to withstand the overwhelming palm force.


    However, Li Ziye showed no sign of panic and shouted loudly, his body shining with golden light, "I still have this!"


    A golden mirror appeared, and at this moment, its might was clearly much stronger than the bubble-like defense from before.


    It was this that greatly increased Li Ziye''s confidence.


    But Li Ziye had forgotten that Bai Wangyu was much stronger than him.


    "Boom!"


    Another loud noise erupted, and the golden mirror shattered, the vast palm force hitting Li Ziye directly.


    "Damn!"


    In an instant, Li Ziye''s body flew out like a kite, crashing into the wall of the courtyard with a loud rumble.


    The courtyard wall shook, stones fell, revealing a figure sprawled in all directions.


    Thump!


    The next moment, Li Ziye''s body hit the ground, battered and dazed, seeing stars.


    Ahead, Bai Wangyu wiped the sweat from his face, relieved. Fortunately, he had held back three-tenths of his strength, otherwise, he would have really killed the guy.


    Too weak!


    It seemed that if this guy wanted to become the world''s number one shell, he needed to practice much more.


    ...


    In the Desert North, the Huyan tribe, the extreme night continued to spread!


    In the darkness, creatures shrouded in black qi appeared, attacking one tribe after another.


    In just a few days, the Desert North was in chaos.


    The only good news was that these creatures seemed to only appear at night and could not venture out of the extreme night.


    This provided a bit of psychological comfort to the tribes outside the extreme night.


    Three days later, the four Great Sovereigns of the eight tribes of the Desert North gathered to discuss a solution to the events that had befallen the Huyan tribe.

 Chapter 79 – Capture demons?

    "Are you sure? What exactly is it?"


    In the tent of the Huyan tribe in the Desert North, the Great Sovereigns of the Chisong, Bai Di, and Helan tribes all arrived and looked at the Huyan Great Sovereign in front of them, asking.


    All four Great Sovereigns were men, and except for the Great Sovereign Bai Di, the other three were all strong and sturdy men.


    Compared to the others, the Great Sovereign Bai Di looked more like a man from the Central Plains, gentle and refined, with a slightly pale complexion for some unknown reason, completely lacking the fierce aura of the men from the Desert North.


    However, everyone present knew that the most terrifying among the four tribes was this Great Sovereign Bai Di.


    "It should be the legendary monster!"


    The Huyan Great Sovereign looked at the gazes of the three Great Sovereigns and said in a deep voice.


    "Monster?"


    On the left, the Helan Great Sovereign, wearing a fox fur cloak, squinted his eyes and said, "Are there really monsters in this world? Could it be that you, Huyan Great Sovereign, are just using this as an excuse to borrow troops from us?"


    "Helan Great Sovereign, those monsters were seen by people from our tribe with their own eyes."


    The Huyan Great Sovereign looked at the man opposite him and said coldly, "If you don''t believe it, you can go to the north and see for yourself whether the traces left behind are from monsters. You''ll know at a glance!"


    "I, as the Great Sovereign, don''t have that kind of free time." The Helan Great Sovereign said indifferently. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What''s all the fuss about? Whether those things are monsters or not, send troops over. I don''t believe they have three heads and six arms."


    On the right, a burly man with a red face spoke, his voice like thunder, "The men of my Chisong tribe are the most brave. Even if they are demons, they are not afraid!"


    "Brute."


    The Great Sovereign Bai Di, who had not spoken all along, spoke in a calm tone, "If they are really monsters, the men of your Chisong tribe are not enough to even get between their teeth."


    "What do you mean, Great Sovereign Bai Di!"


    The Chisong Great Sovereign, upon hearing this, showed a look of anger, slapped the table, and stood up suddenly, saying, "Don''t think that I''m really afraid of you. If you''re not convinced, let''s go outside and practice!"


    "Just you? You''re not worthy." The Great Sovereign Bai Di said coldly.


    "You!"


    The Chisong Great Sovereign was furious and was about to step forward to take action.


    "Both Great Sovereigns, the main issue is important, so please refrain from speaking."


    At the main seat, the Huyan Great Sovereign spoke, advising, "The appearance of monsters in the world is an undeniable fact. I remember, there was a legend on the grassland that when the polar night arrives, there will be monsters that eat people. Those monsters likely come from the dark night in the extreme north."


    "The extreme north?"


    A strange light flashed in the eyes of the Great Sovereign Bai Di, "In recent years, there have indeed been many strange occurrences. The phenomenon of the polar night, which should only appear in the extreme north, has now appeared in the Desert North. Perhaps, it is really indicating something."


    "What is the strength of those things?"


    The Helan Great Sovereign, wearing a fox fur cloak, touched the ring on his left hand and asked.


    "Not very strong, their strength is equivalent to between the first and second realms, but they are extremely fast, and they have claws and teeth that are harder than stone, making them difficult to deal with." The Huyan Great Sovereign replied.


    "Then they are no different from the wild beasts on my grassland." The Chisong Great Sovereign said loudly.


    "Of course there is a difference."


    The Huyan Great Sovereign said in a deep voice, "The ferocity of those monsters is not something that wild beasts can compare to, and they are extremely cunning. We must not be careless."


    "There is an important question, can those things really not leave the darkness?" The Great Sovereign Bai Di asked calmly.


    "So far, we have not seen any monsters appear outside of the dark night." The Huyan Great Sovereign replied.


    "No, it''s still not possible." The Great Sovereign Bai Di asked seriously.


    At this, the Huyan Great Sovereign was taken aback, not knowing how to answer.


    He really didn''t know the answer to this question.


    "Huyan Great Sovereign, you have too little information. How can we rest assured to send troops to help you?" The Helan Great Sovereign said coldly.


    Upon hearing this, the Huyan Great Sovereign''s face looked a bit ugly and said, "The territories of our four tribes are adjacent. We all prosper together and suffer together. Do you all think that those monsters will only attack my Huyan tribe?"


    "At the very least, we have not found these things in our territories." The Helan Great Sovereign said indifferently.


    "You, Helan Great Sovereign!"


    The Huyan Great Sovereign''s chest heaved up and down with anger. After a long time, he suppressed his anger and said, "Helan Great Sovereign, you should be clear that in recent years, the dark night has been spreading southward. In the future, more and more monsters will appear. If our four tribes do not unite, we will eventually be broken down one by one by those monsters."


    "Enough talk, let''s fight!"


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    The Chisong Great Sovereign slammed the table and shouted, "My Chisong tribe agrees to send troops."


    The Helan Great Sovereign frowned, thought for a moment, and nodded in agreement, "Fine, regardless of whether those things are monsters or not, let''s first send some people to guard outside the dark night, just in case."


    After the two made their statements, the Great Sovereign Bai Di nodded and said, "Since the two Great Sovereigns have agreed, I have no objections. Let''s send troops."


    The three Great Sovereigns reached an agreement, and the Huyan Great Sovereign''s face immediately showed a happy expression. He looked outside the tent and shouted, "Good, bring the wine!"


    After a while, the soldiers of the Huyan tribe entered the tent with wine and filled the cups of the four Great Sovereigns.


    "For the friendship of the four tribes!"


    The Huyan Great Sovereign stood up with his wine cup and said.


    "For the friendship of the four tribes!"


    The three Great Sovereigns also stood up, raised their wine cups, and said.


    The four Great Sovereigns looked at each other, then drank the wine in their cups in unison!The agreement for the four tribes to send troops was reached, and soon, the warriors from the four tribes gathered and rushed to the place where the extreme night fell.


    However, no one expected that this was just the beginning of a real nightmare.


    ...


    Great Shang Capital City, Li Garden.


    For many days, Li Ziye was busy and happy. In addition to teaching at the Imperial Academy from time to time, most of his time was spent practicing the Fei Xian Jue and his own Turtle Shell technique.


    After more than ten days of practice, Li Ziye''s Fei Xian Jue''s fourth move and two parts of the Turtle Shell martial arts had made considerable progress, enough to spar a few moves with Little Red Riding Hood and the little monk.


    Of course, the end result was still getting beaten up, but in Li Ziye''s words, there was a difference in getting beaten up.


    Getting beaten up without dignity, and getting beaten up with dignity!


    Li Ziye always believed that he was getting beaten up with dignity, at least he fought back.


    Although he couldn''t win.


    "Old Bai, Little Monk."


    The three of them sat in a row on the steps in front of the west wing, and Li Ziye, with a swollen face, said with a depressed look, "Do you think I can beat Huo Lin''er in three years?"


    "No, you can''t beat her."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head without hesitation.


    "Amitabha."


    San Zang recited a Buddhist mantra and also replied, "You can''t beat her."


    "..."


    Li Ziye felt even more depressed at the words. What kind of people were they? Couldn''t they comfort him a little?


    "Brother Li, you haven''t practiced for long enough."


    After giving him a scolding, Bai Wangyu timely handed him a red date and comforted him, "Huo Lin''er has been practicing martial arts for a longer time than you, and her talent is rare in a hundred years. Brother Li, don''t think too far ahead."


    "I''ve worked hard."


    Li Ziye said somewhat disheartenedly. He thought that by opening the second Divine Hidden Technique, he could spar with experts like Little Red Riding Hood and San Zang a few moves, but he didn''t expect that the gap would still be so big when it came to a real fight.


    "I think Brother Li needs a turning point."


    San Zang thought for a moment and said, "The fact that Brother Li has gained the recognition of the Heavenly Book shows that his potential is definitely not bad. However, how to tap into this potential requires Brother Li to think about it himself."


    "Potential?"


    Li Ziye looked at Little Red Riding Hood beside him suspiciously and asked, "Do I have potential?"


    Bai Wangyu hesitated for a moment and said, "You should."


    "Young Master!"


    Just as the three were talking, a servant boy hurriedly walked in from outside the west wing and respectfully said, "News has come from the palace that in seven days, the Crown Prince will marry the Princess Qing Qing of the Southwest Wangfu!"


    "So soon?"


    Li Ziye was surprised to hear this.


    Bai Wangyu frowned beside him. This seemed a bit too hasty.


    Princess Qing Qing had only arrived in the capital city half a month ago, and the Crown Prince''s wedding was a very complicated process. To set it for seven days later, was it too rushed?


    To Li Ziye''s left, San Zang remained silent, lost in thought.


    Seeing this, Li Ziye gave a meaningful look to Little Red Riding Hood beside him, indicating that she should keep an eye on the little monk in the next few days.


    Bai Wangyu understood and nodded gently.


    "Young Master, something bad has happened."


    At this time, another servant boy hurriedly walked in from outside the west wing and said urgently, "Last night, two young men in the city were found with their hearts removed, reportedly the work of a demon."


    "Hearts removed?"


    Li Ziye was startled. Was it the work of a demon from "Painted Skin"?


    "Brother Li, do you think the demon you and the Southwest Wang''s son encountered back then did this?" Bai Wangyu asked.


    "How would I know?"


    Li Ziye said irritably, "What kind of world is this, where heart-stealing demons are running around."


    At this point, Li Ziye looked at the two people beside him and said, "One of you is a disciple of the Confucian School, and the other is a Buddhist disciple. You should have learned the method of subduing demons. Go and catch that demon!"


    Bai Wangyu and San Zang nodded at each other and then nodded to Li Ziye.


    Makes sense!


    "Brother Li, come with us." Bai Wangyu said.


    "Go where?" Li Ziye asked in confusion.


    "Amitabha, to catch the demon." San Zang recited the Buddhist mantra and replied.


    "I''m not going."


    Li Ziye shook his head vigorously. "Whoever wants to go can go, but I''m not going. I''m the most afraid of demons."


    At night.


    The cold wind blew, and the streets were empty.


    "I knew it wouldn''t come, but you guys insisted on making me come."


    At this time, three people walked down the street, with Li Ziye in the middle, hugging himself to keep warm and complaining, "Let''s go back. The demon might be resting today."


    "No rush."


    Bai Wangyu said calmly, "We just came out. We have to wait a little while."


    "Then you guys have to protect me!" Li Ziye urged anxiously.


    "Brother Li, rest assured, we will definitely protect you." Bai Wangyu said.


    "Phew, phew!"


    As the two were talking, a cold wind blew across the street, making the already quiet night even more eerie.


    "It''s here."


    San Zang felt it and said with a slightly serious expression.


    "Okay."


    Bai Wangyu nodded, squinting his eyes.


    "Jie Jie!"


    At the next moment, a mass of black mist surged on the street, and the piercing laughter spread throughout the street.


    "Demon!"


    Li Ziye saw the large mass of black mist surging towards him and was so scared that he quickly hid behind the two of them.


    "Go, Brother Li, it''s time to show your strength!"Bai Wangyu was not one to waste such a natural meat shield. He grabbed the person in front of him and hurled them directly towards the dark aura ahead.

 Chapter 80 – Li Qingzhi

    "Old Bai, damn it!"


    In the dark night, cries of alarm rang out on the street. As the black mist filled the air, Li Ziye was thrown out as a human shield.


    "Brother Li, if I don''t use your turtle shell, you''ll be beaten to death!"


    After throwing Li Ziye out, Bai Wangyu didn''t forget to remind him with a sneer.


    "Fuck you!"


    In the air, Li Ziye gritted his teeth and cursed, then quickly activated his true energy, and a protective energy quickly spread out.


    "Boom!"


    In the black mist, a hand as hard as gold and stone reached out and slammed onto Li Ziye''s protective energy with a loud bang.


    A deafening roar sounded, and Li Ziye was hit so hard that his blood boiled, and cracks appeared on the surface of his turtle shell.


    "Damn it."


    Seeing the situation, Li Ziye''s expression changed, and he quickly activated the second layer of his turtle shell.


    "The mirror is not a platform!"


    In the dark night, a dazzling golden light appeared, and the mirror manifested, dispersing the waves of light to block the monster''s attack.


    With a violent tremor, the monster''s palm strength hit the mirror, and for a moment, ripples appeared, and some of the palm strength was reflected back.


    With a loud rumble, the monster endured its own palm strength, grunting, and taking a step back.


    Watching the battle in front of him, Bai Wangyu commented, "The Buddhist Sect''s mirror not only has a defensive effect, but also reflects the opponent''s attack. It truly deserves to be the strongest defensive technique in the world."


    "The Confucian School''s protective energy is also not to be underestimated," San Zang modestly replied.


    "The Confucian School''s protective energy focuses on a balance of offense and defense. In terms of defense alone, it is not as good as the Buddhist Sect''s Bodhi Triple Defense. That''s a fact," Bai Wangyu said with a smile.


    "White benefactor."


    San Zang looked at the battle in front of him and said, "Shouldn''t we go help Brother Li? It looks like he''s about to give out."


    "No rush."


    Bai Wangyu shook his head gently. "Brother Li and we are fighting, and there''s always a lack of real combat experience. This is a good opportunity for him to hone his skills. Buddhist disciple, let''s step back and give Brother Li some space."


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    With that, Bai Wangyu turned around without hesitation and walked towards the back.


    "Amitabha."


    Seeing this, San Zang looked back at the young man who was constantly being beaten in the battle, and also turned and walked towards the back.


    "Old Bai, little monk, where are you going? Damn it, someone''s going to die!"


    In the midst of the battle, Li Ziye saw the two retreating figures and shouted urgently.


    "Boom!"


    Before the words had even fallen, the monster in the front rushed forward again and threw a punch.


    The protective mirror took a heavy blow, and Li Ziye was shaken back several steps, with his blood boiling violently.


    Fortunately, the turtle shell was hard enough, and he was not injured.


    "Damn it, are you addicted to fighting? Do you really think I won''t fight back?"


    Seeing that the two guys behind him were of no help, Li Ziye''s gaze darkened as he pointed his sword.


    With a clear sound, the sword was unsheathed, and the cold light of the sword was chilling. In an instant, Li Ziye''s figure also shot out like lightning.


    The Flying Immortal Technique, with unparalleled speed and agility, under the black night, Li Ziye''s figure flickered unpredictably. Like thunder, the sword cut through the night, stabbing at the monster in the black mist time and time again.


    "Clang! Clang!"


    The friction of the sword edge and the claws sounded so harsh that the monster''s claws were as hard as gold and stone, making it difficult for the sharp sword to cause any harm.


    Watching the battle in front of him, Bai Wangyu asked, "Buddhist disciple, do you have a way to deal with this kind of monster?"


    "Judging from its aura, it is extremely yin and cold. The so-called mutual restraint of yin and yang is best countered with extreme yang energy."


    San Zang replied, "The Buddhist Sect''s Buddha energy and the Confucian School''s protective energy both belong to extreme yang energy, which naturally counters this monster."


    "However, not everyone can master Buddha energy and protective energy. It''s not easy to deal with this kind of monster," Bai Wangyu said in a serious tone.


    "What White benefactor said is indeed reasonable."


    San Zang nodded, sighed softly, and said, "I just don''t know how many of these monsters there are. If they exceed the limits of the Buddhist Sect and the Confucian School, all living beings in the world will be in great danger."


    "Boom!"


    As the two were talking, the monster threw a punch, and Li Ziye gritted his teeth to block it, then stabbed the ancient sword forward.


    Both sides suffered injuries, and the monster was startled, but it was too late to change tactics.


    As a result, the palm strength and the sword edge of the two collided at the same time, and they fell heavily on each other.


    "Ugh!"


    A muffled groan sounded, and blood splattered. The black blood from the monster''s body flew out and turned into ice when it hit the ground, extremely cold.


    On the other side, Li Ziye also resisted the monster''s attack, a hint of crimson at the corner of his mouth. With his turtle shell absorbing most of the force, he still suffered some backlash.


    "The Confucian Scholar said that your blood is extremely cold, and it''s true."


    Li Ziye glanced at the black blood on the ground, his eyes narrowed slightly. After a moment, he looked up, looked at the monster in front of him, and said coldly, "In that case, I''ll take your life!"The conversation fell, and Li Ziye''s expression became truly serious. He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and the two divine hidden techniques in his chest surged rapidly, making a deafening roar.


    "Brother Li, you finally got serious."


    Outside the battle, Bai Wangyu saw this scene and showed a relieved expression.


    No matter what happened, Brother Li always treated it as a joke. Even if it was a big deal like the Heavenly Book, he would just laugh it off. He rarely got angry or lost his composure.


    This was his advantage, but also his disadvantage.


    Having a good mindset is not wrong, but a young person should have some impulsiveness.


    A person who is not arrogant is not a young person, and not caring about anything is not the way to go.


    "Fei Xian Jue!"


    In the battle, Li Ziye saw that the blood of the monster in front of him was indeed an extremely cold substance. His expression turned cold, and he stepped forward, rushing out like thunder.


    "Double Swords Parting Wind!"


    The second move of Fei Xian Jue appeared, the sword was like an illusion, under the night sky, faintly, the person and the sword split into two at the same time, and the two figures, two swords, simultaneously passed by, making it difficult to distinguish between real and fake.


    Seeing this, the monster''s expression sank, and it gathered its demonic energy in its palms, preparing to block the two swords head-on.


    "Ugh!"


    But with a muffled groan, the monster''s palms fell empty, and a ancient sword broke through the black energy and pierced straight into the monster''s chest.


    Black blood gushed out, and the monster looked at the sword in its chest in disbelief, taking several steps back.


    "It''s impossible!"


    The monster coughed up blood, unable to believe that it was defeated by a human.


    "What''s impossible."


    Li Ziye pulled out the sword and said lightly, "You monsters are allowed to eat humans, but humans are not allowed to slay monsters?" S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Outside the battle, Bai Wangyu and San Zang looked at each other, both showing a hint of surprise in their eyes.


    This guy is much more powerful when he gets serious than they had imagined.


    Even they wouldn''t dare to easily confront that sword just now.


    "Fei Xian Jue, truly deserves to be the number one technique in the world."


    San Zang sighed, "In terms of attack power alone, no technique can compare to it."


    "The trouble is, we also taught him defensive techniques."


    Bai Wangyu smiled, "If in the future, his cultivation surpasses ours, we really won''t be able to defeat him."


    "Not easy." San Zang said calmly.


    "Does Master mean it''s not easy for him to surpass us, or it''s not easy for us to win against him after he surpasses us?" Bai Wangyu asked.


    "Both are not easy." San Zang replied.


    "Master, save me!"


    Just then, the seriously injured monster suddenly shouted.


    In the next moment, a powerful palm force came through the night sky, exactly the same as the previous one.


    "Hao Ran Gang Qi!"


    The sudden palm force was so astonishing that Li Ziye hurriedly used his protective energy to block the attack head-on.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud bang, the Hao Ran Gang Qi shattered, and golden light reappeared on Li Ziye''s body, forming a mirror to block the next attack.


    With a thunderous sound, the palm force broke through the mirror as well. The terrifying palm force far exceeded what a cultivator of the Second Realm could withstand. It came too suddenly, and the two people behind him were too late to help.


    "Who dares to hurt him!"


    At this critical moment, a voice full of anger rang out in the night, and a young man in a gray-white cloak appeared at the end of the night, and in the blink of an eye, he arrived at the scene.


    With the palm force approaching, Li Qingzhi turned his palm and forcefully blocked the attack.


    "Second Brother."


    Seeing the arrival of the man, Li Ziye''s frightened face showed a hint of joy.


    "Let''s go back to the mansion!"


    Li Qingzhi said angrily, giving a cold glance at the three people behind him, then stepped forward and rushed towards the direction of the attack.


    On the street, Bai Wangyu and San Zang saw the young man in the Li Family disappear into the night, their expressions filled with shock.


    This second son of the Li Family is so strong!


    Strong to the point of being unbelievable.


    In terms of speed and palm strength just now, he is even more than just a cultivator of the Third Realm!


    On the street, Li Ziye saw his Second Brother leave, and then killed the monster with a sword before picking it up and returning the way they came.


    "Let''s go back."


    "Yeah."


    Bai Wangyu and San Zang nodded and followed.


    "Brother Li."


    "Yeah?"


    "Is your Second Brother really only at the Third Realm?"


    "I think so. He has been very powerful since he was young, and I have never been able to beat him, so I don''t really know how strong he really is."


    As they talked on the way, their voices became more and more distant, and soon disappeared into the night.


    In the capital city, inside a gloomy mansion, Li Qingzhi appeared with a body full of anger.


    A plain sword, nothing special, but at this moment, it was exuding a strong killing intent.


    "Colluding with monsters, you all deserve to die!"


    The anger that came out of nowhere was so intense that the anger on Li Qingzhi''s body could be felt clearly even from several feet away.


    Just now, he was just a step away from being too late!


    Thinking of this, the anger in Li Qingzhi''s heart surged even more.


    He could discipline his useless younger brother, but others couldn''t!


    Deep in the mansion, a pair of cold eyes looked at the incoming person, and a hint of fear flashed in them.


    Such a terrifying killing intent!Under the veil of night, Li Qingzhi wasted no more words. Alone with his sword, his figure darted forth, and thus the slaughter began.


    At dawn, the moment when the first light of morning scattered.


    Within the mansion, corpses lay everywhere, blood flowed like rivers, and not a single soul was left alive. In his fury, Li Qingzhi showed no mercy, slaughtering everyone in the house to the last.


    The cold morning breeze blew, carrying the pungent scent of blood. Li Qingzhi casually tossed his blood-dripping sword onto the ground and, without a second glance, turned and walked away.