"Descendants of Zhuanxu, during the grand gathering of the Hundred Schools, must be in Jiangcheng..."

Ying Wuji smacked his lips, feeling that something was off.

He glanced up at Jiang Taiyuan and saw that he was also looking at him with a smile that wasn't really a smile. He couldn't help but curse, "Why the hell are you staring at me? There are so many descendants of Zhuanxu. The Ying clan has fourteen branches, and the Mi clan has over twenty branches. Which one of them isn't a descendant of Zhuanxu? The Li Kingdom is the old nest of the Zhao clan, and even Xiang Ding is more reliable than me, damn it."

"That's true," Jiang Taiyuan chuckled, not continuing to discuss this matter as the Swordbearer. It seemed like he was just joking around.

However, Ying Wuji felt that something was not quite right. Jiang Taiyuan didn't mention this matter at all when Zhai Yun was present, but he brought it up after he left. And with the inexplicable help from the Yang clan, could it be that they had discovered something about him?

Damn it!

I admit that I have a grudge, but I really have no interest in Zhou Tianzi!

Ying Wuji felt a bit annoyed, but he was even more curious about the details of this matter. "Are they making a big deal out of nothing? And that divination official, how can he be so accurate, it's like he's trying to scare people!"

Jiang Taiyuan grinned, "Who knows! But I've heard that this person from the Yin-Yang School is extremely mysterious!"

"I see!"

"Indeed!"

"But I think Nangong Ling might have to make a wasted trip. There are so many descendants of Zhuanxu in Jiangcheng, how can he find the right one?"

"That's not necessarily true..."

Jiang Taiyuan smirked, "Didn't they say that during this grand gathering of the Hundred Schools, the military will provide a surge of energy? Now that Nangong Ling has come, he has privately brought three surges of energy, all hidden in the Tomb of the Chaotic Thieves. When the time comes, everyone will be able to enter and fight for them."

"The Tomb of the Chaotic Thieves? What is that?"

"It's the place where Nangong Tuoyi defended against the joint forces of the lords, leaving behind tens of thousands of soldiers' corpses. The palace is already in ruins, and it's just the right time to build a new palace. Nangong Tuoyi invited a few friends who have reached the Enlightened Spirit Realm to turn the ruins of the old palace into a treasure. It is rumored that Nangong Tuoyi's inheritance is hidden here, and the Nangong family can control the formation of soldiers from generation to generation because of this treasure."

"Wow... This thing seems more interesting than arguing with the Confucianists and Mohists!"

"Of course! In any case, with so many benefits at stake, not to mention the grand gathering of the Hundred Schools, even the literary gathering is bound to be quite bloody!"

Ying Wuji fell into deep thought. He had no grudges or grievances, so he definitely didn't want to kill Zhou Tianzi. Naturally, he felt that the person wasn't him. And as for the Sword of the Merchant King, he had no interest in it at all.

But Jiang Taiyuan's behavior made him feel uneasy. It was best to handle this matter cautiously.

The four surges of energy from the military were similar, and Nangong Tuoyi's inheritance was even more tempting, but his own life was more precious.

As long as he didn't stand out, he would be fine. Zhou Tianzi's position was high, but the decline of the Zhou royal family was an undeniable fact. Whether it was the Ying clan of the Qian Kingdom, the Zhao clan of the Li Kingdom, or the numerous noble Mi clans of the Chu Kingdom, they were not easy to provoke for the Zhou royal family.

However, he still felt that something was not right. "By the way, Jiang ge, Zhou Tianzi's dream should be top secret. How did you know about it?"

"Well, um, haha..."

Jiang Taiyuan scratched his head and awkwardly laughed twice, not answering this question. "Let's not talk about this matter. I think there's another matter that you're definitely more interested in."

Ying Wuji slapped his thigh. "You finally got to the point. Where is the killer?"

Jiang Taiyuan finished the remaining wine in his bowl and stood up directly. "Follow me!"

...

Fifteen minutes later, the two arrived at the Shangmo Bookstore.

It was lunchtime, so the bookstore was temporarily closed. Except for the gatekeeper, everyone else had gone to eat, including Hua Chao, who was busy with the theater troupe.

The two of them made their way to the backyard, and Jiang Taiyuan asked, "Which one is your room?"

Ying Wuji pointed in a direction. "Jiang ge, this is..."

"Hush!"

Jiang Taiyuan made a gesture for silence. "Follow me into the room!"

Ying Wuji: "..."

Jiang Taiyuan became a bit impatient and pulled Ying Wuji into the room. Then he quickly closed the doors and windows and took out a black cloth from his bag to cover the window. In an instant, the room was almost completely dark.

Ying Wuji felt a bit panicked.

Damn it, could it be that Jiang Taiyuan...

This guy is obviously a big shot who has already broken through to the Embryonic Shedding Realm, and his Spiritual Embryo Grade is not low. I'm no match for him at all, damn it...

At this moment, the room suddenly brightened.

Jiang Taiyuan extinguished the match in his hand, and in front of him, a pale white candle was already lit. The light emitted by the candle was also pale white, very bright but seemingly without any warmth.

He took out a jade pendant from his pocket and placed it in front of the candle. Suddenly, a dim yellow shadow appeared on the wall.

Ying Wuji breathed a sigh of relief and then looked towards the shadow. There didn't seem to be anything unusual about it, except for a black dot. But... this black dot was moving.

It swayed and gradually grew larger, from a dot to a blot.

The blot grew bigger and gradually took shape. When it grew to the size of half a palm, its true appearance could finally be seen.

It turned out to be two little people carrying a sedan chair. The process of them growing from small to large seemed like an optical illusion, but it was just that they had walked out of the deep shadows.

After a while, the sedan chair returned to its normal size, and the two little men carrying the sedan chair stopped.

Jiang Taiyuan stepped forward and bowed to the two little men before extending his hand.

Although his body blocked the light, there was no shadow on the wall, and the solid wall seemed to be nonexistent, allowing him to reach his hand into the sedan chair.

"Come out!"

Search "pawread.com" for the original.

"Uh, uh..."

A person bound with ropes was pulled out by him. The person looked extremely terrified, but their mouth was stuffed with a smelly sock, preventing them from making any sound.

Ying Wuji was shocked, "What kind of spell is this?"

Jiang Taiyuan smirked, "In the mortal world, everyone has their own treasures. This is the living person talisman given to me by my master. It is the only remaining artifact in the world that can hold living beings. It is very useful in stopping time. This person is the scum who revealed the secret of the prime minister's illegitimate daughter, Hu Qu. I'm handing him over to you!"

Ying Wuji glanced at the terrified person and asked in confusion, "Didn't you interrogate him?"

Jiang Taiyuan shrugged, "I did! But he was too stubborn and didn't reveal anything. I could only bring him back for you to interrogate!"

Ying Wuji felt a headache coming on, "But I don't know how to interrogate people!"

"No problem!"

Jiang Taiyuan took out a book from his pocket and casually flipped through it. It was filled with talismans. He picked out a few, "Here! This is the soul-breaking talisman. It can shatter the spiritual platform and break the memories of the corresponding part. The downside is that the person dies too quickly, and they might die before revealing the important information."

"This one is the exploding pea talisman. It can make a person experience the pain of exploding copper peas at all times."

"This one is the cuckold talisman. As long as you stick it on your forehead, you will constantly feel like your wife..."

"Stop, stop!"

Ying Wuji listened and started sweating, while the bound person let out a series of terrified screams.

Look at how scared this person is!

He looked at Jiang Taiyuan and asked, "Since you have these talismans, why don't you interrogate him yourself?"

"The materials are too expensive, I can't bear to use them!"

Jiang Taiyuan waved the talismans in his hand and smirked, "Two thousand two hundred silver taels each. A great deal!"

Ying Wuji: "???"

So, he doesn't want to spend money!

Two thousand two hundred silver taels for one talisman, why not just rob someone?

Although Shang Mo Bookstore had taken a large number of orders and received a lot of advance payments, two thousand two hundred silver taels for one talisman was still too extravagant.

Ying Wuji's head was starting to ache, but he was more concerned about another question, "Where did you get these strange talismans?"

The soul-breaking talisman was understandable, but what about the exploding pea talisman and cuckold talisman?

Jiang Taiyuan pointed at himself, "I am a practitioner of the Daoist path. I never rely on others for talismans! Take a look and see which one you like. I don't sell these treasures to ordinary people!"

Ying Wuji looked down at the bound person and saw the fear in their eyes. It seemed that they were afraid of these talismans.

It seemed like they weren't that tough after all.

After thinking for a moment, he shook his head, "I don't really need these. Jiang Brother, can I see your other talismans?"

Jiang Taiyuan didn't hesitate and threw the book over, "Take a look. There are prices listed on them!"

Ying Wuji smiled and nodded, then started flipping through the book. The more he read, the more his eyelids twitched.

If Jiang Taiyuan really drew these talismans himself, then he must be a genius in talisman crafting. There were all kinds of talismans, even ones for experiencing menstrual pain and childbirth. He had to hide these things well. If his wife saw them, it would be a devastating blow.

Of course, excluding the ninety percent of non-serious talismans, there were still some that could be useful.

Ying Wuji directly selected three talismans, "A total of two thousand five hundred silver taels. I'll pay you later!"

"Huh?"

Jiang Taiyuan leaned over to take a look and found that it was a soundproof talisman and two protective talismans. The former could block all sounds and last for forty-nine days, but it was relatively useless, so it only cost five hundred silver taels. The other two were for self-protection. When torn, they would create a protective barrier that lasted for half an hour, preventing anyone with a lower cultivation level in drawing talismans from approaching.

He frowned, "Are you planning to use them for interrogation?"

Ying Wuji smiled, "It's enough! Thank you, Jiang Brother, for your generous help. If I need anything in the future, I'll let you know. I'll definitely help if I can!"

"Just your words are enough!"

Jiang Taiyuan smirked, collected the living person talisman and the talisman book, and stood up, "I won't disturb you any longer. Take your time to interrogate this person. Goodbye! Oh, remember to return the rope that seals their meridians when you're done!"

After speaking, he left Shang Mo Bookstore with his hands behind his back.

This person is quite carefree. It's just that his personality is too cheerful, not at all like someone who can be critically hit. He even has a bunch of colorful skill orbs behind his energy bar. He's so envious of having two Earth-ranked skills!

And that living person talisman, with time stopped inside, what kind of living person talisman is that? It's clearly a beauty preservation box.

Otherwise, if someone is seriously injured, they can be put inside and wait for treatment. These functions... are too damn powerful!

He shook his head and squatted down, pulling the smelly sock out of the killer's mouth.

The killer hummed and showed a stubborn look.

Ying Wuji clicked his tongue, "Why did you frame Hua Chao?"

The killer turned his head, "You're asking the obvious!"

"Very well!"

Ying Wuji nodded and stuffed the smelly sock back in.

The killer: "???"

He was a bit confused. Weren't you going to interrogate me?

"Stinky!"

Ying Wuji shook his hand in disdain, ignoring him. He directly opened the secret door in the room and carried him out of the dungeon. This dungeon was built from the moment he took over this bookstore, it was a self-cultivation for the antagonist. Unfortunately, he had too few resources in his hands. Although it was secretive, the soundproofing was poor. But with this soundproofing talisman, everything was fine.

He threw the murderer into the dark room and left after sticking the soundproofing talisman on it.

The murderer was confused. When he opened the door just now, he saw the scene inside. It was just a small secret room with nothing in it. Why did he lock me up here?

After the dark room door closed, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.

After all, that burly Taoist priest was too terrifying. Not only was his strength formidable, but his methods were also unpredictable. Even if he used all his abilities, he couldn't escape his pursuit. The feeling of being played with like a cat and mouse made him feel powerless.

After being captured, his first choice was to commit suicide, but Jiang Taiyuan was extremely skilled and disabled all the methods he could use to commit suicide.

This person made him feel scared. If he was interrogated by him, he would definitely be unable to survive and unable to die.

Compared to that, although this dark room had no light at all, it gave him a sense of security as if he was returning home.

Unexpectedly, Ying Wuji was so compassionate. In his hands, there was still a possibility of escape.

Outside the dark room.

Ying Wuji sneered, "Wait for death!"

Absolute darkness, absolute soundproofing, even someone with strong willpower couldn't bear it.

Ying Wuji didn't understand torture very well, but he had heard of this famous torture. When this person couldn't bear it anymore, he would interrogate him himself, and by then, he would probably say everything.

As for the question he asked just now, it was to completely eliminate Hua Chao's suspicion.

Although their relationship was already good, that incident was still a knot. It was good to untie it now.

As for now...

Ying Wuji took out pen, ink, paper, and inkstone, and copied a volume of "The Carefree Journey" on it. However, he could faintly feel a trace of ethereal energy flowing, but he couldn't absorb it into his body no matter what.

This was clearly a masterpiece of the Dao, but it only had such a slight reaction. Just now on the road, Jiang Taiyuan had mentioned that when a Dao masterpiece was born, there would be signs of heaven and earth. How could this be...

He rubbed his head and a trace of worry appeared on his face. This thing seemed to be a big trouble for Wen Chaogong!

...

Li Family Residence.

"Hoo!"

With a tremor in his body, Ji Su let out a long breath, dismounted, and weakly lay down on the bed.

The fiery true energy in his body circulated a small cycle, suppressing the feeling of emptiness in his dantian.

He suddenly felt a surge of anger and gritted his teeth as he looked at Li Caitan, "Didn't you say you would only take one and a half percent of the true energy source? It's only been a day, and you've already exceeded it!"

Regret!

He regretted it so much!

He originally thought that the speed at which the true energy source was lost should be the same as before. As long as he cultivated the Nine Flames Pulse, he could immediately leave.

But he didn't expect that the speed of stealing and taking would be so different. When he let his guard down, Li Caitan immediately revealed her greedy nature.

One day.

Two percent!

When he realized it, he was already deeply trapped and unable to extricate himself.

Li Caitan gathered up her messy long skirt and giggled, "Don't be angry! Although the loss is not small, as long as you cultivate it, it won't be a problem to break through to the third-grade Spiritual Embryo!"

"Third-grade Spiritual Embryo? What about the first-grade Spiritual Embryo we agreed on? Even if I can cultivate a third-grade Spiritual Embryo, how long will it take? Can I afford to wait?"

Ji Su's eyes were filled with anger, and he couldn't help but curse, "You wicked woman!"

"Smack!"

As soon as the words fell, he was slapped hard on the face.

He was stunned, and then his anger grew even stronger, "You hit me?"

Li Caitan smiled lightly as she admired her hand that had just slapped him, and said leisurely, "It seems that you still can't control your temper. I can only help you!"

"You..."

Ji Su couldn't contain his anger, "You're going back on your word, and you still want to cover up your evil intentions. Why don't you just die?"

Li Caitan leaned slightly and gently patted his swollen face, "If I die, who will help you break through to the third-grade Spiritual Embryo? Young Master Su, your Flame Kingdom is not strong to begin with, and you are about to become an abandoned son of the Flame Kingdom. You can't change anything, you can only change your temper, understand?"

Ji Su: "..."

An unprecedented sense of humiliation spread in his heart, but surprisingly, he didn't get angry this time. He just stood up and said, "I understand! Please help me cultivate the Nine Flames Pulse. Let's stop here for today. Goodbye!"

"No need to see me off!"

Li Caitan smiled and waved her hand.

Ji Su tidied up his clothes and left the Li Family Residence.

Indeed, as the only way to save himself, he didn't have the qualification to negotiate with Li Caitan.

After leaving the Li Family Residence, he went directly to the Wei Family Mansion.

"Excuse me, I am Ji Su from the Flame Kingdom, I would like to see Wei Teng."

Since that was the case, he might as well prepare another way to save himself!

...

Wei Family, backyard.

Ji Su met Wei Teng as he wished, but the atmosphere was obviously not harmonious.

"You bastard, how dare you come here?"

"You asked me to persuade Luo Yan, but your strategy was to give money?"

"Not only did you give money, but you also ruined the bookstore?"

"Why don't you just die, Ji Su?"

As soon as Ji Su saw Wei Teng, he poked his shoulder and scolded him.

He felt bitter in his heart!The Wei family is the second largest family in the Kingdom of Li, but the clan is still ambitious and demands high standards from its descendants. From childhood, they must practice diligently. Each person is given equal resources for cultivation. If they cannot reach the tenth level of essence, energy, and spirit at the designated age, they will be directly assigned to the military and will no longer enjoy any privileges.

After reaching the tenth level, they can either pursue scholarly studies or join the army as a sergeant. This has led to the Wei family's strong military power, firmly controlled by the Wei family. The family's confidence comes from this.

Therefore, there are very few members of the Wei family who can live a carefree life, and Wei Teng is one of them. After breaking through the tenth level, his resources became exceptionally abundant. His talent and hard work allowed him to easily break through to the eleventh level of essence, energy, and spirit, making him outstanding among the family's descendants.

From that day on, he officially started to slack off. After all, isn't the purpose of hard work to enjoy life?

The family could tolerate him for two reasons. Firstly, his cultivation level was indeed impressive. Secondly, his several older brothers were particularly outstanding. As the most favored legitimate youngest son, he naturally enjoyed some privileges, even being given the family's bookstore as pocket money.

But...

The bookstore was destroyed by Ji Su, that damn guy. Not only did he destroy it, but he also mocked him.

Not only did he lose his source of pocket money, but he was also scolded by his father. His mother tried to intervene, but she was also scolded for being an indulgent mother. The commotion at home almost led to him being sent to the border as a soldier, which scared him. So for the past few days, he had been staying at home obediently, not daring to go out.

Unexpectedly, the culprit actually dared to come find him.

Ji Su felt a pain in his shoulder from being poked. In the past, he might have endured it, but he would definitely have been angry. But now, he didn't feel any anger at all. He just smiled and said, "Isn't this Wei Brother coming to apologize? Wei Brother is a big person with a big heart. Don't compare yourself to me!"

"Hehe! Apologize? Do you have the attitude of apologizing?"

As soon as Wei Teng saw Ji Su, he felt a stomachache from anger. If it weren't for the fact that he would be punished if he fought at home, he would have beaten Ji Su to the point of being unable to take care of himself. After all, the eleventh level of essence, energy, and spirit was not something Ji Su could compare to.

Ji Su nodded repeatedly, "Yes, yes! I have prepared a precious treasure to apologize to Wei Brother. I just don't know if Wei Brother is willing to forgive me!"

"Hmm? What treasure?"

Wei Teng became interested. He loved treasures the most.

Ji Su smiled, "I will take Wei Brother to see it!"

"Then let's go quickly!"

Wei Teng took a step forward, but quickly retracted it, looking Ji Su up and down. "No one does anything without gain. You, Ji Su, are the type to burn bridges after crossing the river. Tell me, why are you suddenly trying to please me?"

Ji Su praised, "Wei Brother is indeed wise. No wonder you are loved by the Wei family. Since Wei Brother has already seen through me, I will be straightforward. Wei Brother knows that I lost a lot of money in the bookstore this time, and Kingdom Qian took away the orders. Now, there is a lot of dissatisfaction towards me in my homeland.

I know I have no right to ask Wei Brother for anything, but the Wei family has always had a good impression of the Flame Kingdom. Whether it is the military stationed at the border to deter Kingdom Qian or the cooperation with the Flame Kingdom's trading companies to deal with the Han family, it can reduce the troubles for my Flame Kingdom. So, I came here hoping that Wei Brother, when you come into power in the future, will not change this strategy.

If it is because of me that my homeland suffers unjustly, then I will truly become a sinner to my family and country!"

His words were sincere, and his flattery was subtle.

Wei Teng was quite pleased and smiled slightly, "Rest assured! We are straightforward gentlemen. How could we let personal interests influence the family's decisions? You can be assured of this. But whether or not I will forgive you depends on what the treasure is. Where is it?"

Ji Su bowed and smiled, "How about Wei Brother wait in the Deer House for a while? I will bring the treasure later!"

"Deer House!"

Wei Teng's eyes lit up. The Deer House was a building he had built for pleasure-seeking and entertainment. It had everything, and all of them were top-notch.

If Ji Su dared to bring the treasure to the Deer House, it probably meant that it was something valuable.

"Alright! I'll wait for you!"

At the entrance of the Wei residence, he rode north towards the Deer House.

Ji Su watched his figure as he rode away on his horse and couldn't help but smile.

Half an hour later.

In Wei Teng's anxious wait, Ji Su finally arrived. He was followed by several attendants, who slowly placed a large iron box on the ground.

"What's inside this?"

"You will know when Wei Brother opens it!"

Ji Su smiled slightly and made a gesture of invitation.

Wei Teng was already impatient and directly pulled him aside, using all his strength to open the box.

Then, he saw a helpless little beauty inside.

She looked panicked, like an injured little deer. Perhaps because she hadn't seen the light for a long time, her face was slightly pale, making her even more pitiful.

Her face was beautiful, and her figure was exquisite. There was not a trace of excess fat, but she also didn't lack any curves.

However, Wei Teng frowned, "A woman? Do you think so little of me?"

What I, Wei Teng, lack the least is women!

Ji Su smiled, "Wei Brother, look behind her!"

"What's there to look at!"

Wei Teng cursed, but his body honestly turned the woman around, and then his eyes widened.

A tail!

And then he lifted her hair.

Furry ears!

She was actually a cat girl!

His rough actions frightened the cat girl, causing her to sob uncontrollably, but she didn't dare to dodge at all.Ji Su smiled and introduced, "This is a good item I got from outside the domain. This cat girl has been kept locked up since she was young and raised with various spiritual medicines. All of them have been internalized into pure and rich demonic energy, which can be completely absorbed through dual cultivation.

She has been trained as a famous prostitute since she was young, but has never been in contact with men. She has suffered hardships since she was young. As long as you can satisfy her basic needs, she will treat you as a great benefactor and let you do as you please. Wei Xiong, what do you think of this gift?"

Hiss...

If he could obtain all the pure demonic energy nurtured by medicinal food, even if he didn't follow the demonic cultivation path, it would still greatly benefit his body. After breaking through the Transformation Realm in the future, he might even awaken a spell exclusive to demonic cultivators.

And that tail, those ears, hiss...

Wei Teng trembled with excitement.

Ji Su looked at the cat girl and couldn't help but feel a little heartache. He didn't expect the Han family to be able to obtain such a good item, but it had nothing to do with him.

And this cat girl... she's really good at acting!

Seeing that Wei Teng didn't speak, he reminded him again, "Wei Xiong?"

Wei Teng snapped out of his daze and quickly shifted his gaze elsewhere, his expression becoming serious. "Ji Xiong, it's already afternoon."

Ji Su was puzzled. "Hmm?"

Wei Teng pointed outside the door. "There are still three hours until nightfall. I need to rest!"

Ji Su: "..."

...

Shang Mo Bookstore, study room in the backyard.

Ying Wuji was frowning and contemplating as he stared at a stack of thin papers.

He had just copied down many sentences about governing the country and securing the peace, and he could feel that there seemed to be great talent hidden within them. However, they were all only vaguely connected to him and he couldn't fully comprehend them. He felt extremely frustrated.

Although he could recite many famous works, even if he couldn't produce a masterpiece, he might still be able to rank in the top three.

But what if?

According to Jiang Taiyuan, the disciples of the Daoist school had made up their minds to freely enjoy the fortune of the Hundred Schools of Thought. The works they produced when they came out would probably not be limited to just one.

"Oh? You're back?"

A gentle voice sounded at the door.

Ying Wuji looked up and saw Hua Chao walking towards him with graceful steps. There was a hint of excitement between her eyebrows and eyes, and she seemed to be in a very good mood. He couldn't help but smile and ask, "Didn't you go to the theater troupe? Why are you back so early?"

Since the first performance of "The Beauty Beheading Case," the opera had gained some popularity. Even though "The Beauty Beheading Case" had been banned as a forbidden book later on, there was still some enthusiasm for opera among the common people.

After all, the Kingdom of Li was the most prosperous among the feudal states, and Jiangcheng was the capital of the Kingdom of Li. The common people had some spare money, and with spare money, they would want to find some entertainment. Poetry and essays were a bit obscure for them, but opera was just right.

Those colleagues who supported Hua Chao naturally wanted to join her. Although the theater troupe hadn't officially opened yet, they were already preparing for the next play in order to make a name for themselves at the literary gathering tomorrow.

Moreover, being included in the Yuefu Collection had great benefits. As long as the creator was willing, they would definitely have a place in the Yuefu Collection, blessed by the fortune of the Great Zhou Dynasty. They could easily cultivate related spells, even if they had no cultivation at all, they could still rely on their official status and spells.

Although the Zhou royal family had lost its political power, it still held a superior position in terms of rituals.

If Hua Chao could enter the Yuefu Collection, she would definitely benefit greatly.

Not only would she realize her personal value, but she could also support him to some extent.

However, it was not easy for a new genre to be included in the Zhou Yuefu Collection. Many works of Qiyan and Qijue had emerged before finally being selected. If they wanted to succeed this time, they had to come up with an exceptionally explosive performance.

Hua Chao smiled and said, "We have rehearsed quite proficiently. I let them rest for the afternoon. I want to perform well at the literary gathering tomorrow."

"Great!"

Ying Wuji nodded slightly, feeling slightly better. The opera also had half of his shares, so if it could succeed, it would be good news.

He sighed and prepared to burn the manuscript he had just written.

Hua Chao was curious. "What is this?"

"Just wrote something randomly."

Ying Wuji responded casually, not avoiding it too much, and handed it over when he saw that she wanted to read it.

Hua Chao looked at "The Travels of Xiao Yao" for a while, didn't understand it, and flipped through a few pages. When she saw the line "Worry about the world's worries first, and enjoy the world's joys later," ripples appeared in her eyes, and she praised, "Did you write this? At least it's at the level of a masterpiece!"

Ying Wuji was somewhat surprised. "Hua Chao, you also know about masterpieces?"

Hua Chao smiled and said, "I heard Luo Ming say it. He said that when Luo Yan paid his respects to the Confucian master back then, the Confucian master originally looked down on him. But when he made a masterpiece, although it only barely reached the level of a masterpiece, it still showed a hint of Confucian and Daoist talent, so he was accepted as a disciple by the master. I don't understand these things, but your sentence should be enough to be considered a masterpiece!"

Ying Wuji grinned. After all, Hua Chao was the daughter of the Prime Minister. He couldn't judge her based on the standards of an ordinary singing girl.

He felt a little frustrated. "This is a sentence I wrote for tomorrow's literary gathering, but for some reason, I can't produce any talent."

"Hmm..."

Hua Chao pondered for a moment and suddenly asked, "Wuji! Sister has always believed that you are talented, and I also believe that this sentence was written by you. But... do you truly agree with this sentence in your heart and intend to act on it?"

"This..."

Ying Wuji felt a little ashamed. Not to mention acting on it, he didn't even write the sentence himself.Hua Chao knew the answer, but she didn't show any disdain. She gently smiled and said, "If you don't believe in these sentences yourself, how can you produce talent? In my opinion, the carrier of meaning is not only the work, but also the people!

But unfortunately, you are in a precarious situation, and even taking care of yourself is a difficult task, let alone worrying about the country and the people. Besides, the place you are in now is not your homeland. Actually, you don't need to worry too much. If you can't participate in the Baijia event, then don't. With your talent, you will eventually get what you want."

"Mm."

Ying Wuji nodded thoughtfully, feeling a little relieved in his heart. He smiled and put the paper on the flame.

When the paper turned into ashes, Hua Chao smiled gently and said, "After being busy for so many days, I haven't rested much. Will you accompany me for a stroll outside?"

"Sure!"

Ying Wuji nodded with a smile. "Where shall we go?"

Hua Chao pondered for a moment and said, "Let's go to the south of the city. When my mother first brought me to Jiang City to find relatives, we stayed in the south. Although it's a bit rundown there, I always feel comfortable whenever I go."

"Alright!"

"Change into a set of old clothes first."

"Okay!"

After changing their clothes, the two of them walked to the south of the city. This place was indeed a bit more rundown. Most of the people living here were those who wanted to seek benefits for their descendants from the surrounding cities. After all, Jiang City was a holy land for the Baijia, and there were also many academies.

Although joining an academy did not guarantee a good future, it at least gave them a glimmer of hope. If they could become a guest of a prominent family, that would be even better.

However, studying was too expensive, so these people had to work hard. Making bamboo baskets and engaging in textile work were common occupations. Although they earned a lot of silver, they all spent it on the academies, so their own lives were very poor.

Hua Chao was very familiar with every plant and tree here, and she told Ying Wuji many stories from the past.

Ying Wuji was also willing to listen. With the murderer caught, he had no more doubts about Hua Chao. Naturally, he wanted to know more about her past.

The two of them strolled until evening before returning. After Hua Chao went home, she went straight to rest.

Ying Wuji, on the other hand, returned to his study. He had a vague understanding and seemed to know what he would write tomorrow.

...

The next day.

Jiang City became lively from the first ray of dawn.

Although only scholars could participate in the literary gathering, it did not affect the enthusiasm of the people of Jiang City. After all, those who could afford to read were not short of money.

The literary gathering would be held at Wangyue Lake in the evening, but the vendors had already occupied the area around Wangyue Lake in the morning. The place that used to be quite deserted became the busiest market in Jiang City overnight.

Ying Wuji didn't join in the excitement and stayed at home until the sun started to set before preparing to go out.

But when he passed by a shop, he happened to see a handsome young man holding a book called "Liaozhai Stories".

Zhao Ning heard the footsteps and smiled, raising her head. "Brother Ying, how about we go to the literary gathering together this time?"

"Of course, that's great!"

Ying Wuji nodded with a smile and took Zhao Ning's wrist, warmly pulling her onto the carriage in front of the door.

After sitting down in the carriage, he smiled and said, "Father and I had a quarrel a few days ago, and I made a fool of myself in front of Zhao Xiong!"

Zhao Ning shook her head and sighed lightly. "Brother Ying is in a foreign land, and his homeland doesn't understand or support him. Instead, they make things difficult for him. People are all flesh and blood, and anyone in his shoes would feel resentful. It's not a joke to me, but it makes me look at Brother Ying in a different light. By the way, Brother Ying..."

"If you want to support me and help me regain my position in Kingdom Qian, then please don't say it for now."

Ying Wuji interrupted directly, smiling. "I have a suggestion that Zhao Xiong might be more interested in!"

Zhao Ning was puzzled. "Please tell me, Brother Ying."

Ying Wuji stared at Zhao Ning's face, seeming a little shy. "I don't know if your Majesty would like to have a son-in-law who is handsome, knowledgeable in business and governance, and has a broad mind. This son-in-law doesn't have high requirements, as long as the King of Li is willing to marry his most powerful daughter to him to protect his life."

Zhao Ning: "..."

She was a little confused.

According to her imagination, Ying Wuji had always been hiding his true strength, probably to make Kingdom Li relax its guard and facilitate his future return to the throne.

In this case, he must have great ambitions and would not let the throne that belonged to him fall into someone else's hands.

And his behavior in Kingdom Li further confirmed this point.

The reason why she approached Ying Wuji so openly was because she was certain of this point. Even if she stood in Ying Wuji's position, she would be quite tempted by this proposal.

But...

Become a husband in Kingdom Li?

Zhao Ning was a little stunned. She didn't expect that this handsome and bright-eyed Ying Wuji would also want to live off someone else.

Why was that? He had been patient for so long, was it just to have a taste of an easy life?

And he came straight to the point, making people doubt his true motives.

Ying Wuji became a little impatient waiting for her response. "Yes or no, give me a straightforward answer! Do you not like me as a son-in-law?"

"Uh... no, it's not like that!"

Zhao Ning quickly shook her head. Supporting Ying Wuji to engage in internal strife in Kingdom Qian was indeed a good choice, but it had limited benefits for Kingdom Li.

For nearly a hundred years, Kingdom Li's national policy had been to balance the neighboring countries against each other in order to accumulate its own national strength.But this does not mean that they are afraid of fighting. Even if Kingdom Qian attacks now, she is confident that she can handle it calmly. After all, the military power of Kingdom Li is not ordinary strong. The only one in Kingdom Li who advocates the theory of Qian's calamity is the Prime Minister.

So compared to balancing Kingdom Qian, she hopes to eliminate the shortcomings of Kingdom Li itself.

Although she is not sure how talented Ying Wuji is, this person's thoughts are imaginative and traceable. He can definitely provide her with many novel ideas. Maybe most of them won't be used, but as long as they can be used, it is definitely a guaranteed profit.

It is not uncommon in history for a hostage to become a trusted minister of another country, especially since the Ying and Zhao families are of the same origin. Moreover, once this marriage is involved, it is not easy to get rid of it. Ying Wuji is sincere.

But... isn't the most powerful daughter of the King of Li me?

Zhao Ning shook her head, thinking that almost no one knows about her daughter's identity. She should be referring to someone else.

But she was still puzzled: "Does Ying Xiong really not want to compete for the throne of Kingdom Qian?"

Ying Wuji waved his hand repeatedly: "Forget it! Although I feel a little unhappy, Ying Wuque is really unbeatable. His physique is already different from ordinary people. It is not impossible for him to break through to the first-grade spiritual fetus. When he reaches the stage of shedding the fetus, with the blessing of ancient bloodline, he will be even stronger than an ordinary first-grade spiritual fetus. How can I compete with him?

Ying Xiong, you are the trusted aide of the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince sent you to contact me, which means he values me. In that case, why not consider marrying the highest-ranking sister to me? It will be a win-win situation for both of us in the alliance between Kingdom Qian and Kingdom Li."

His idea is certainly not to freeload, but to develop independently now. It is bound to be regarded by Kingdom Qian as wanting to compete for the throne, and will inevitably face a lot of pressure.

What he needs to do now is to survive and develop for a few years, until all his essence, energy, and spirit break through the thirteenth level and then break through the stage of shedding the fetus. At that time, all those first-grade spiritual fetuses and ancient bloodlines will be crushed by him!

At that time, whether to continue freeload, or return to the throne of Kingdom Qian, or retire and become a carefree wanderer, the initiative is in his hands.

The marriage between Kingdom Qian and Kingdom Li is his best protection.

Moreover, this princess who borrowed the name "Zhao Ling" has a really good appearance, strong talent, respected status, and a generous and straightforward personality. It is hard not to be moved. As for whether it is true love or not, it can be cultivated later.

If he really marries such a wife, it will be hard not to love her in the future.

"It's really not bad..."

Zhao Ning thought for a while, it seems that it makes sense, and this statement makes her quite tempted.

If such a marriage can be achieved, there may even be a chance to use the power of Kingdom Qian to settle the Wei and Han families. How wonderful...

Even if other problems arise, there are ways to solve them completely.

As for the marriage partner... Zhao Ning was a little hesitant. She does have many sisters, but none of them are valued. She can only stay in the Qingjiang Palace and get some pocket money. It is possible to stand out among the crowd. The only worry is that Ying Wuji will not acknowledge it.

It seems that she can only wait for the King to come out and let him grant the title of Princess, otherwise Ying Wuji will not be at ease.

So she nodded: "Okay! When I go back, I will immediately ask the Crown Prince to propose marriage for Ying Xiong!"

Ying Wuji added: "It must be the one with the highest status!"

Zhao Ning nodded: "Rest assured! It will definitely be the highest-ranking princess!"

After all, I am not a princess, I am the Crown Prince!

"Hiss..."

Ying Wuji squinted at her for a while, why did she agree so readily, has she been coveting my body for a long time?

Although he has not seen many princesses, he also knows that they do not have real power among many princesses. Zhao Ling's true appearance is quite similar to the King of Li, and she can also handle so many things for the Crown Prince. She must be the highest-ranking princess.

This... am I walking into the tiger's den?

It's over!

Ying Wuji looked at her determined look and suddenly felt a little flustered. He originally thought he was the hunter, but he didn't expect to be the prey.

Seeing that Ying Wuji's expression was a bit unnatural, Zhao Ning asked in confusion, "What's wrong, Ying Xiong? Do you want to back out?"

"No, no backing out!"

Ying Wuji licked his lips and subconsciously adjusted his collar, trying not to expose himself too early and let her take advantage.

He pointed to the front of the carriage: "Let the coachman continue forward!"

"Hmm?"

"I'll take you through the back door!"

"Okay!"

Ying Wuji's mouth slightly curled up.

Very good!Before even stepping through the door, he had already tasted the sweetness of an easy life.

Two guards stood at the back door, their energy incredibly cold and stern. Seeing the two approaching, they stepped forward immediately: "You, go through the front door!"

Zhao Ning didn't bother arguing with them. He immediately pulled out a jade token from his waist, which was the symbol of Qingjiang Palace.

The guards exchanged a glance, quickly bowed to him, and then let the two into the backyard.

This place was right behind the inscribed stone wall of Wangyue Lake.

As soon as Ying Wuji entered, he saw a figure he didn't particularly want to see.

Upon seeing Ying Wuji, Luo Yan also subconsciously furrowed his brows. However, the displeasure in his eyes quickly disappeared, and he put on a polite smile: "Master Wuji, long time no see."

~~~~~

I've lost a lot of subscriptions, so I want to ask everyone, do you feel there's anything wrong with the plot? Feel free to give your opinions.

If you think the plot is okay, then... please don't just read without subscribing.

Crying...

(End of the chapter)