Ying Wuji arrived at the back door with a fierce momentum, feeling a burning anger in his heart. He secretly cursed Zhao Ling's ancestors countless times, but he couldn't disrespect his elders. He had already told her last time to quickly deal with Hua Wanqiu, who was causing trouble for him, but Hua Wanqiu was still alive and well. Although he had requested that the Prime Minister's woman be dealt with within seven days, it was still somewhat difficult. But at least there should be some pressure!

When Ying Wuji reached the back door, he saw Hua Chao looking around in the courtyard with a hesitant expression. He walked up to her and coughed lightly.

"Ah!"

Hua Chao was startled and quickly explained, "I just woke up, I won't see her!"

"Okay!"

Ying Wuji nodded and watched Hua Chao return to her room before he let out a sigh of relief. He coldly snorted and opened the courtyard door.

Hua Wanqiu was wearing a plain dress and had a worried expression on her face. When she saw Ying Wuji open the door, she immediately showed a joyful smile. "Young Master, you finally opened the door!"

Ying Wuji blocked the door and glanced indifferently at the basket she was carrying in her arms. "If you came here to visit Hua Chao, you can leave now!"

"Why?"

Hua Wanqiu was puzzled. "I heard that Hua Chao was frightened. I wanted to visit her last night, but the Flying Fish Guards stopped me from entering, so I came to the bookstore early this morning to visit. How is Hua Chao?"

Ying Wuji snorted, "As long as you don't come in the future, she will be fine! Please leave!"

"As long as she's fine!"

Hua Wanqiu breathed a sigh of relief. She didn't feel displeased by Ying Wuji's hostility, but rather smiled as she handed him the basket. "I know you don't like me, so I won't force it. But this is a little gift for Hua Chao, please... Ah!"

With a cry of surprise, the basket was knocked over and a box of not-so-delicate pastries scattered on the ground.

Ying Wuji angrily cursed, "Can't you understand when I tell you to get lost? I'm disgusted just looking at your hypocritical appearance. Do you really think you're Hua Chao's mother? Go tell Luo Yan that he helped me this time, so I don't want to argue with him, but if he wants forgiveness from his daughter, he should come and make amends himself! It's disgusting to randomly find a woman and make Hua Chao call her mother. Are you not disgusted? And you! What are you scheming? If I see you within ten zhang of Hua Chao in the future, even if you're the Prime Minister's woman, I will kill you! What a joke!"

Hua Wanqiu was shouted at and kept retreating. After being scolded, her eyes were already turning red, and she murmured softly, "I'm not the Prime Minister, I just wanted..."

"I don't care if you want to or not, now get lost!"

Ying Wuji turned around and said, "Bai Zhi! Remember this woman clearly. If you see her within ten zhang of Hua Chao next time, break her legs and throw her onto the street!"

"Yes!"

"Alright, alright! I'll take my leave!"

Hua Wanqiu wiped her eyes and picked up the pastries that had fallen on the ground, sadly returning to the carriage.

"What a joke!"

Ying Wuji spat on the ground as he watched the carriage leave.

He couldn't wait any longer. He had to quickly find the Crown Prince and get rid of this disgusting woman, or she would become a disaster sooner or later. After all, this woman was too confusing, even Hua Chao was a bit confused by her. Such a person should disappear quietly.

He had to go now!

Ying Wuji rubbed Bai Zhi's head and said, "Don't go anywhere today, just accompany Hua Chao. Don't let that woman get close to her! Got it?"

"Don't worry, Young Master. I'm very strong now!"

Bai Zhi nodded.

Ying Wuji: "..."

Although her cultivation had improved rapidly, her personality was still as pleasing as ever.

The more Ying Wuji looked at her, the more he liked her. He messed up her neatly arranged hair, relieving his frustration. But then he thought that when she broke through and regained her demonic body, her fur might become even smoother. He became even more excited!

After breakfast, Ying Wuji greeted the people at the bookstore and went out directly. Shortly after he left, a noble young man with a distinguished appearance arrived at the door.

"I am Zhao Ling, a friend of Young Master Wuji. Please inform him!"

"My Young Master just left!"

"Where did he go?"

"I don't know..."

"..."

Zhao Ning was a bit annoyed. He had worked late into the night yesterday to finish his year-long political affairs so that he could come out and play with Wuji today. But Wuji was not here.

"Perhaps Young Master went out for a stroll and will be back soon. If you don't mind, you can rest in the backyard for a while. Young Master once said that you are a rare distinguished guest and must be treated well. There is 'Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio' in the study. You can relieve your boredom by reading it first!"

"That's fine!"

Zhao Ning smiled happily. It didn't matter to wait a bit longer. It seemed like Ying Wuji really treated him as a friend.

Since they were sincere friends, they should treat each other like this.

Led by the servant, Zhao Ning directly came to the study, but he couldn't find 'Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio' no matter how he looked. He had no choice but to wave his hand. "It's fine if I can't find it. Don't bother. I'll just sit here for a while. You can go about your business!"

"Then I'll take my leave!"

"Okay!"

After the servant left, Zhao Ning curiously looked around the layout of the study.

Was this where Wuji created his works?

Thinking that "Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio" was written on the desk in front of him, he couldn't help but feel emotional.

"Huh?"A thought suddenly popped into her mind. "Liaozhai Zhiyi" is currently selling like hotcakes. Even though it is being printed at a fast pace, there is still a high demand for it. If I manage to grab some and sell them, I can increase the price by twenty to thirty percent.

Zhao Ning wasn't particularly interested in bound books.

But if it was an unfinished manuscript, it seemed to hold some sentimental value.

She didn't want to steal.

But how could reading be considered stealing?

Moreover, they were about to become a family, and Ying Wuji had been causing her so much trouble these past few days. It was only fair that she made him worry for once before returning it.

It was said that those who wrote these books would be more upset if their manuscripts were lost than if they were killed!

Stealing the manuscript would make Ying Wuji anxious.

If she lent it to Cai Mei, she would definitely be happy.

As soon as this thought arose, it quickly spread in Zhao Ning's mind.

With Zhao Ji watching her in the court, the pressure on her lessened, and for the first time in her life, she had the idea of playing a prank.

Finding the manuscript wasn't particularly difficult, and she quickly took out a stack of papers from the drawer.

"It's so thick! Brother Ying is truly talented!"

Zhao Ning weighed it in her hands. It was the thickness of three volumes, and she roughly flipped through it. The first few pages were the content of "Liaozhai Zhiyi," so it shouldn't be wrong.

She smiled and quickly put the stack of papers into her storage pouch.

Then she casually took a book from the bookshelf and sat obediently at the desk, flipping through it.

...

Today, the Qiqi Palace had an air of majesty that it didn't have on other days.

There were countless carriages parked at the palace gate, and officials of all sizes from the city of Jiang should have arrived.

Ying Wuji felt a bit annoyed as he recalled the commotion that came from the Qiqi Palace yesterday. It was not difficult to deduce that the King of Li had already left seclusion.

After such a big event happened a few days ago, it was impossible for the King of Li to not hold a grand court meeting. Zhao Ling, as a key figure, would most likely be there as well.

"So, I made a wasted trip?"

Ying Wuji rubbed his chin and felt that, following the principle of not leaving empty-handed, he should do something.

So he found a dark alley.

Invisibility, earth travel!

Originally, he planned to visit the King of Li openly, but when it came to stealing, it was better to be low-key.

He traveled through the earth and found the place where he had emerged last time. The stone was not red, there was no one around, and he could enter.

Ying Wuji emerged from the earth and heard a surprised voice.

"You just got out of prison, and you came so early?"

Turning his head, he saw Li Caimei's slightly tired and pretty face.

Ying Wuji smiled, "Of course! I have always been a person who seeks knowledge. How can I not come when I don't even know the princess's name? Yesterday, I composed a song overnight that will surely move the young lady!"

For a miner, it was basic etiquette to dig when there was a mine.

But Li Caimei propped her cheek and lightly hummed, "I changed my mind! Even if you can move me, I won't tell you my name!"

She was feeling a bit down today. She didn't expect the King of Li to come out of seclusion so quickly. In that case, the marriage alliance with the Princess Chang would happen at any time, and her false identity would no longer be useful.

After Ying Wuji knew her true identity, he probably wouldn't come anymore, right?

Sigh...

"You're really good at evading, aren't you?"

"What do you mean by evading?"

Li Caimei smiled ambiguously, "I heard that you, sir, were furious for a beauty and killed twenty-seven criminals! Since you have already fallen in love with another woman, why go against your heart and marry into the Zhao family?"

Is she blaming me?

No way! How could she be jealous so quickly?

But if it's not jealousy, why ask this?

In an instant, he was about to blurt out the child's name.

Fortunately, Ying Wuji stopped himself in time and looked at the playful expression on her lips, teasing, "So you don't want to tell me your name because you think I already have someone in my heart?"

For this kind of question, the best solution was to throw the ball back.

Li Caimei gave him a disdainful look, "It doesn't matter if I don't tell you... I've heard that you think you're flawless in everything you do, but in reality, you can't hide anything."

After the court meeting, he would immediately find the King of Li. Then they wouldn't play this guessing game anymore.

Li Caimei pursed her lips and thought, so you want to meet the princess by asking the King of Li?

Unfortunately, you won't find me with this method.

She propped her cheek and smiled ambiguously, "I'm afraid you won't understand by then."

Ying Wuji felt a slight chill in his heart when he heard this. What does she mean by "won't understand by then"?

Damn!

Could it be that the King of Li is also a difficult person to deal with and keeps secrets?

Why does it feel like this whole family is so secretive and likes to be mysterious?

He felt a bit annoyed, but it was clearly not the right time to complain. It would only make him appear weak.

No!

He had to pretend!

So he smiled faintly, "Actually, I already knew."

Li Caimei curiously asked, "Knew what?"

Ying Wuji calmly said, "His Majesty the King of Li wants to keep secrets! He's hiding the highest-ranking daughter from me and trying to deceive me with someone else?"

Li Caimei subconsciously nodded. It wasn't surprising that he could guess this...

Wait!

Something's strange!

He should have just found out, so why did he say he already knew?

And I haven't shown any signs of having a high status, and even my cultivation is well hidden, but his words directly pointed to the "highest-ranking daughter."

Is he talking about me, or... Zhao Ning?

A chill ran down Li Caimei's spine as she felt that his words were full of strangeness. This person... could it be that he already knew her true identity?

Judging from her appearance.

Ying Wuji understood. He had successfully pretended, and it felt great!

"I understand you, actually!"He understood, which made Li Caimei a little flustered: "What do you understand?"

Ying Wuji smiled. He really understood. The princess in front of him had terrifying talent in cultivation, and she also practiced the Jade Maiden Technique, a mysterious technique that would destroy half of her cultivation upon breaking through. It was obvious that she was treated as a secret weapon. Especially with the unstable situation in Kingdom Li, how could the King marry such a powerful weapon to someone else?

He sighed lightly, "You have been secluded in the palace for many years. The root of all these problems lies in the weakness of the royal family's power. But the consequences are borne by you, a woman, for your entire life. Are you... willing?"

Li Caimei's heart skipped a beat. This question really struck a chord.

But what made her even more unsettled was why Ying Wuji would say such things?

She had a vague feeling that Ying Wuji knew more than she had imagined.

Indeed, the root of all these problems was the lack of absolute control by the royal family.

If there was, Zhao Ji would directly help the Empress ascend the throne, and no one would dare to object.

But without clear understanding of the situation, she couldn't say anything!

Zhao Ning, did you tell Ying Wuji everything?

Seeing Li Caimei's unstable emotions, Ying Wuji knew that he had overdone it.

But seeing her lost and confused expression, he also felt that he had been too rough. So he asked gently, "Do you want to leave here? To go to a wider world outside, free from the constraints of your identity!"

What does he mean by this?

Does he know my current situation?

And he knows what I want to do?

Li Caimei was shocked and subconsciously replied, "Hmm."

Ying Wuji smiled, "I have a way!"

There was a hint of bitterness in Li Caimei's mouth, "It's a big matter. What can you do?"

Ying Wuji confidently smiled, "As I said earlier, the root of all these problems lies in the weakness of the royal family's power."

Li Caimei asked eagerly, "Are you saying that you can make the Zhao family's power stronger?"

Ying Wuji nodded, "Not sure, but I can try! Speaking of which, King Li's actions are not fair. Clearly, it is a problem of the royal family, but the consequences are borne by you alone. Don't worry, no matter the result of the marriage alliance, I will help you regain your freedom!"

Li Caimei: "..."

Although she still felt that this matter was too unbelievable, hearing these words still moved her.

【Hint】: When the target's emotional fluctuation value exceeds 90, randomly obtain the Profound Stage technique "Seven Star Steps."

Ying Wuji smiled proudly.

See!

I told you I understood, right?

Originally, he was just guessing, with about seventy to eighty percent certainty. But when the "Seven Star Steps" was mentioned, he completely believed in his guess.

Regardless of whether he would choose her in the end, he had already sold this favor!

Reasonable mining rights obtained!

My brilliant mind!

Li Caimei couldn't help but ask, "Do you really mean it?"

"Of course!"

"Then what about the marriage alliance?"

"Let it be. If King Li really intends to marry a princess to me casually, I definitely won't accept it. I will only marry the person I want to marry."

"But..."

"There's nothing to worry about. If he wants to fool me, it's because he thinks I'm not worth it. As long as I show my value, he has no reason to stop me."

"This..."

Li Caimei's mind was a bit chaotic. According to Ying Wuji's words, he wouldn't marry any mediocre princesses.

So, the one he wants to marry... is Zhao Ning?

Not only does he want to marry Zhao Ning, but he also wants to set me free?

But if it's just to set me free, why did he say so many seemingly ambiguous words before and play the pipa for me?

Could it be that he wants to marry all of us?

This person is crazy. How dare he make such demands to King Li?

Zhao Ning!

I haven't said a word.

What did you tell Ying Wuji?

Li Caimei felt her head was a mess.

Ying Wuji saw her appearance and knew it was almost enough. When it comes to showing off, there is a limit.

If he continues to show off, it would be impolite.

He slowly stood up, smiled, and said, "Don't worry! Leave these matters to me. You just need to wait patiently. The coldness in the palace won't last long. Even if there is still some time, don't you still have me?"

Li Caimei: "..."

She felt that this person was a bit crazy, but also felt a warmth.

For a moment, she had many things to say, but also felt that there was no need to say them. He should already know.

She hesitated for a moment and asked, "When will you come next time?"

Ying Wuji thought for a moment and said, "Tonight! In the afternoon, I will discuss a major matter with King Li. He may not immediately agree with me, but it's only a matter of time. During this time, we should act low-key. Remember to continue displaying the red and gray stones. After all, we need to give him face."

Li Caimei: "..."

"See you tonight!"

Ying Wuji smiled and waved, leaving her with a graceful back.

Invisible! Underground!

【Hint】: When the target's emotional fluctuation value exceeds 90, randomly obtain the Earth Stage technique "Dragon Capture Hand."

After showing off, he ran away. How exciting!

In the courtyard, Li Caimei stared blankly at the direction where Ying Wuji disappeared, her heart unable to calm down for a long time.

Just fifteen minutes ago, in her heart, Ying Wuji was still an ignorant fool.

Now she understood.

The fool was actually me.

...

Outside the Siqi Palace.

Ying Wuji walked with a bumpy gait, looking so beautiful that bubbles of snot were about to come out.

This time, he really went all out with his act.

And he even obtained a Dragon Capture Hand, an Earth Stage technique that combines control and damage. Although its control effect was not as good as the Shackling Technique, its flexibility was more than ten times greater, and the damage was incomparable.In the past, although I had mastered various strange skills, my individual combat power was always lacking.

This wave of the Dragon Catching Hand directly made up for his biggest shortcoming.

After strolling all the way, he quickly returned to the bookstore and happened to see Zhao Ning leisurely reading.

Zhao Ning put down the book and smiled slightly: "Brother Ying! Are you well?"

"Well? How do you know if I'm well?"

Ying Wuji was furious: "Tell me, where have you been these days? Didn't I tell you that Hua Wanqiu is my disciple? But she is still alive and kicking!"

Zhao Ning was sprayed and had a headache. He quickly explained: "It's not my fault! After all, Luo Xiang is the right-hand man of the Great Li. If the Crown Prince wants to move his fiancee, he has to consider it. But now that His Majesty has come out of seclusion, it should be resolved today!"

Ying Wuji sneered: "It better be!"

Zhao Ning smiled: "Coincidentally, the grand court meeting is about to end. I will accompany Brother Ying to the palace now!"

"Okay!"

Ying Wuji's expression eased slightly. He subconsciously glanced at a drawer. The fan fiction he wrote about Ying Yue, Lin Qing, and Tie Niu was temporarily stored there. He had already prepared to give it to Tie Niu, but unexpectedly, he got involved in that case.

Although it was unlikely to be discovered, and it was hidden under the manuscripts of Liao Zhai, it was still better to find a safer place.

"You go out and wait for me for a while. I'll pack up my things!"

Saying that, he subconsciously took a few steps towards the drawer.

Zhao Ning was startled and quickly grabbed him: "Don't! Brother Ying, it's better to solve the matter with Hua Wanqiu as soon as possible. Otherwise, we will continue to worry!"

Without saying a word, he directly pulled Ying Wuji out of the bookstore.

On the carriage to the palace, Ying Wuji asked all the way.

After all, he had been in the prison all day yesterday. Although Wu Shuangxu briefly described it, he still had a feeling of not knowing the whole story. It was not easy to meet his potential wife candidate, so he should ask clearly!

Zhao Ning also didn't hold back and told him everything about this matter.

Ying Wuji listened with great interest. He thought that the Kingdom Li was more exciting than the Kingdom Qian. The ambitions of the Wei and Han families had been revealed. Although they temporarily put aside their hatred and united to request the Great Li to come out of seclusion, it could be guessed that the secret of the Zhao family's bloodline had been leaked by Pingling Jun, and he had promised them a huge benefit.

If he had to guess a specific result, it was very likely that the three families would divide the Kingdom Li.

Ying Wuji smiled and looked at Zhao Ning: "No wonder at the astronomical meeting, Zhao Qi's eyes looked like he wanted to devour people. It turns out there is this reason."

"Such a despicable person, I wish I could eat his flesh alive!"

Zhao Ning's eyes were slightly cold, and he did not hide his hostility towards Zhao Qi. After all, she had completely regarded Ying Wuji as her own, and it was time to make him understand some of the internal situation of the Kingdom Li.

Ying Wuji smacked his lips: "This person thinks he can walk between major forces, but he has no ability and is indecisive. He is indeed a clown. But from his perspective, there is nothing wrong with doing so."

Zhao Ning was a little dissatisfied: "Brother Ying, are you speaking up for him?"

"Of course not!"

Ying Wuji smiled and waved his hand: "I'm just thinking that if anyone with ambitions were in his position, they would probably make the same choice. But this person really underestimates his own strength. Regardless of this case or the previous literary meeting, he couldn't remain calm."

Not to mention that he relied on the Li family and the Zhou royal family. Even if he could eventually seize the power of the Zhao family, would the Zhou royal family allow him, an outsider, to continue to be the King Li?"

"Yes!"

Zhao Ning's eyes showed a hint of pity and disgust: "But it is precisely this person who has the support of the Li family and the Zhou royal family. Dealing with him is indeed a bit tricky."

Ying Wuji was a little curious: "I understand why the Zhou royal family is difficult to deal with. After all, their status is relatively high, and they have the descendant of the Martial Saint. But why can't you deal with the Li family? This Li family is involved in all sorts of shady dealings and doesn't seem like good people!"

He really didn't understand.

This Li family was indeed a bit mysterious. There was Li Caitan, Pingling Jun, and even Lin Qing who gave birth to an ancient bloodline for Ying Yue.

With such an evil family, the royal family actually allowed it to develop.

But then he suddenly slapped his forehead: "I almost forgot! Your Crown Princess is also from the Li family!"

Zhao Ning's expression became complicated, and he sighed softly: "Brother Ying, don't you think the Li family has not been dealt with?"

"Huh?"

Ying Wuji became curious.

Zhao Ning smiled helplessly: "The Li family has actually been cleaned up many times, both openly and secretly, but they always manage to save their family! Do you know why?"

"Why?"

"Because the Li family is not united internally! I heard that Ying Wuque was punished not long ago. I think Brother Ying should understand his background, right?"

"I know a little!"

"Then, do you think the people who invested in Ying Wuque and the people who invested in Zhao Qi are the same group?"

"Ah..."

Ying Wuji understood: "You mean the Li family is divided into factions, and every time they clean up, they get rid of those who have failed in their investments, leaving behind those who are still pure and even become heroes?"

Zhao Ning nodded: "You guessed it right!"

Ying Wuji grinned: "You guys let them play such tricks?"

Zhao Ning spread his hands: "You are aware of the bloodline of the Li family. Many geniuses in various families are related to them. As long as you propose to wipe out the Li family completely, there will definitely be a group of people opposing you."

"Alright!"

Ying Wuji finally understood. The Li family could survive until now, and there was indeed a reason for it.He squinted his eyes, "So how do you plan to handle this matter in the end?"

Zhao Ning looked at Ying Wuji, hesitating, "Yesterday... the result of the discussion between our Crown Prince and His Majesty, the Wei and Han families will no longer pursue it. Wuji, you..."

She was worried that Wuji would blame her.

Wuji smiled, indicating that he didn't mind, "Wei Teng and Han Xie are both dead. Even if you continue to pursue it, what can you do? Given the situation of your Zhao family, let alone putting pressure on the Wei and Han families, it's even difficult to make ends meet!"

Zhao Ning: "..."

In front of Wuji, she felt that she, as his sister, had no face.

Wuji squinted his eyes, "But with the means of His Majesty, you should be able to gain a lot of benefits, right?"

Zhao Ning smiled, "There shouldn't be a problem! This matter has caused a great uproar. Wei Teng has strained the relationship between the Wei family and the Minister's Mansion, while Han Xie has made all the nobles feel threatened. His Majesty will propose that if the noble children want to hold important official positions, they must go through the court's review, otherwise they will be persecuted!"

"Brilliant!"

Wuji sighed. If it really happened, it would mean that the number of official positions for the nobles would not be reduced on the surface.

But if you want to enter an official position, you have to consider the court's face. Invisibly, the authority of the court has been elevated.

Under the leadership of Zhao Qi, the Wei and Han families directly clashed with the Li King, naturally they would not openly oppose it.

The other aristocratic families were probably just as afraid of the Li King.

The Li royal family would make a fortune from this!

No!

It's his own father-in-law's family that will make a fortune!

Wuji asked with a smile, "What about that dog Ji Su?"

Damn it!

Thinking of this dog, Wuji became angry.

From the paper shop to the bookstore, and then to this major case, this guy's figure was everywhere.

Even his good brother Wu Dan had been implicated by him.

Although what he did was not wrong from the perspective of being a hostage for exchange in the Flame Kingdom, it didn't affect Wuji's desire to kill him.

Zhao Ning couldn't help but smile, "After all, he is a hostage from another country. Even if he is sentenced, we have to inform the Flame Kingdom. But rest assured, his status in the Flame Kingdom is not high, they won't protect him. Even if he can avoid death, the best outcome is to have his meridians and dantian disabled and be sent to the border as a slave!"

"That's great!"

Wuji nodded.

While they were talking, the carriage had already arrived at the entrance of the imperial palace. They got off the carriage and hurried to Chongli Palace.

At this time, the grand court meeting had just ended not long ago, and the ministers all had gloomy faces, as if they had lost their mothers.

Wuji had a rough idea in his mind. This grand court meeting of the Li King should have ended in a complete victory.

When they saw the two approaching, the eunuch on duty at Chongli Palace quickly greeted them.

"Captain Zhao Ling, Young Master Wuji! His Majesty said that after you two arrive, go directly to the side hall!"

The old eunuch shrank his neck and didn't dare to look at Zhao Ning.

Side hall?

Wuji couldn't help but smile. Did this old eunuch mean to say Princess in the side hall? His monthly allowance for this month was probably going to be confiscated.

He didn't think too much about it and entered the side hall with Zhao Ning.

As soon as they entered, they saw a middle-aged man with a majestic appearance and graying hair sitting on the high seat.

He had a tall figure and a calm expression, without any particular emotions, but it made people unable to help but feel a sense of worship.

Zhao Ji!

Wuji remembered seeing him before, but they didn't have much interaction. After all, at that time, he was just a useless hostage.

Before the two entered the side hall, there was another person besides Zhao Ji.

This person was none other than Ji Su, the hostage from the Flame Kingdom.

At this moment, Ji Su was wearing a brocade robe, looking no different from his usual noble appearance, but his face was pale and his eyes were hollow. He had long lost his former vigor.

The hall was quite quiet, and neither of the two men spoke, or rather... two men, plus a figure in the illusion.

That's right!

A transmission talisman was floating in the air, emitting a faint light.

Wuji had never seen the person in the illusion, but he looked somewhat similar to Ji Su. If he guessed correctly, it should be the Flame King.

Ji Su didn't speak.

The Flame King didn't speak either.

Zhao Ji sat on the high seat, looking like he was watching a show. When he saw Zhao Ning and Wuji approaching, he waved his hand to signal them to come and watch together.

After a long time.

Ji Su couldn't help but speak first, "If you want to scold, go ahead. It's uncomfortable to hold it in!"

"You really..."

The Flame King's voice had a touch of vulgarity, but he stopped after saying three words, "Forget it! I won't say anything. Although your methods are stupid and despicable, they are also for the Flame Kingdom. I heard that you have cultivated the Nine Flame Pulse?"

"Yes."

"Have you succeeded?"

"I have. But three-tenths of my original source true energy was stolen by a woman from the Li family. I lost everything and can only reach the third-grade Spirit Embryo at most."

"That's good! It's not a pity if it's disabled."

"..."

Ji Su had no strength to argue and stood still without saying a word, feeling a bit depressed.

The Flame King then looked at Zhao Ji, "Old Zhao! I don't want to explain this matter anymore. It's unfortunate for the family, but my useless son has nothing to do with the will of the royal family. Since he has stepped on the land of your Li Kingdom, he should be judged according to your laws. If you want to disable or kill him, I won't object."

Zhao Ji smiled faintly, "According to Li's law, it is natural to kill him! However, since he is a prince from a friendly country, it wouldn't look good to just kill him like that. How about this, the young man from Kingdom Qian who was harmed has also arrived. Why don't you negotiate with him? If he is willing to reconcile, we can disable his meridians and dantian and send him to the border as punishment!"

As he spoke, he smiled and looked at Wuji.Ying Wuji smacked his lips, letting the victim decide the life and death of the suspect. This method of handling can be said to be quite lenient.

The Flame King narrowed his eyes and did not object: "That's fine!"

But Ji Su was unwilling.

He originally had a look of wanting to die, obviously lying down and waiting for death. But when he heard that he was going to be dealt with by Ying Wuji, he suddenly screamed like a chicken with its neck pulled, his voice extremely miserable.

"If you want to kill, then kill!"

"What does it mean to hand it over to Ying Wuji?"

"Father! Disabling the meridians and sending me to the border is no different from giving me death. You might as well just kill me directly, why bother letting him humiliate me again before killing me?"

The Flame King's face turned dark: "Shut up!"

Ji Su gritted his teeth and snorted fiercely.

Ying Wuji smiled: "Little brother, it seems you haven't figured out the situation! Since you said that disabling the meridians and sending me to the border is no different from giving me death, then isn't giving me death the cheapest option for you? Why do you think so highly of it?"

Ji Su: "..."

Although, what he said made sense.

Ying Wuji looked at the Flame King and smiled slightly: "Your Majesty, although the prince of your country is not the mastermind, he is still the one who harmed me personally. His life and death will be decided by the laws of the Li and Flame Kingdoms, and I don't want to make any suggestions. But since I am the victim, is it unreasonable for me to make some requests?"

The Flame King nodded: "Speak!"

Ying Wuji smiled: "There is an alkali mine in the small mountain range at the border of the Qian and Flame Kingdoms. I am very interested in it. Can you give it to me?"

Upon hearing this, everyone present was stunned.

Indeed, there is an alkali mine in the small mountain range, and it is currently the largest known alkali mine in the world.

But what does Ying Wuji want the alkali mine for?

After all, there are many alkali mines in the world, mainly used for military and prevention purposes. Except for the production of leather goods, most industries do not require a large amount of alkali, so almost every country has enough alkali.

So what does he want to do?

The Flame King only pondered for a moment: "I can give it to you! I will contact the Qian King later and transfer the alkali mine to the Qian Kingdom."

If it were any other mountain, he would definitely think twice, after all, a mountain at the border of the two countries could potentially affect the war situation. But the small mountain range has always been like a chicken rib, even if a war breaks out, the two countries wouldn't bother to take a look.

But Ying Wuji shook his head: "Not transfer it to the Qian Kingdom, but transfer it to my personal ownership!"

The Flame King: "..."

Damn it!

The hostage in another country has completely disregarded the national interest.

Are the people of the Qian Kingdom all like this?

He hinted: "Are you sure?"

"Sure!"

"Any other requests?"

"There is a small mountain to the west of the small mountain range, which can be accessed through the Qian Kingdom to enter the Li Kingdom. I would like the Flame Kingdom to make this road wider and more durable!"

"No problem!"

The Flame King frowned slightly and asked again: "So, you only want the alkali mine in the small mountain range?"

Ying Wuji nodded: "Yes! As for how to deal with Ji Su, I leave it to Your Majesties!"

Although Zhao Ji was puzzled, it was obviously not the time to ask these questions now, so he smiled faintly: "Since even the victim doesn't care, then Ji Su's life or death, Ji Brother, what do you think..."

The Flame King's gaze towards Ji Su became complicated: "In that case, disable his cultivation and send him back! He will definitely be demoted to a commoner and sent to the border..."

"Hold on!"

Ji Su suddenly erupted, turning around to look at Ying Wuji: "Ying Wuji! I may have lost this time, but I did not lose to you! We both bear the guilt in this matter, and if we were to switch places, I would never end up in such a miserable situation.

In the end, it's because our Flame Kingdom is not strong enough!

You can walk away unscathed, it's only because your Qian Kingdom has just won a battle. If it weren't for the Qian Kingdom backing you up, do you think you would be able to leave unharmed?"

His eyes turned red, like a mad beast on the verge of madness.

Ying Wuji sneered: "A weak country has no diplomacy, so many 'what ifs'. Are you talking about your mother?"

His voice was so loud that it made everyone's eardrums ache, and then everyone fell into silence.

A weak country has no diplomacy.

This sentence is really damn insightful!

Ji Su's lips moved, his expression becoming extremely complicated.

Ying Wuji sneered: "And, do you really think you didn't lose to me?"

Ji Su's expression became fierce: "What do you mean?"

Ying Wuji turned his head and asked: "Your Majesty of the Li Kingdom, are there no outsiders in this side hall?"

"No!"

Zhao Ji looked at him with interest, not knowing what he was up to.

Ying Wuji was somewhat dissatisfied: "Or maybe you should call in some eunuchs and palace maids!"

"Clap clap!"

Zhao Ji clapped his hands twice, and soon dozens of eunuchs and palace maids rushed in.

They stood in the hall, somewhat confused as to why the Li King called them in.

"Let's make it lively!"

Ying Wuji smiled and took a step forward, rushing towards Ji Su: "Jian Cong, take over!"

The air in the hall suddenly became hot.

Ying Wuji's slender and fair hand was instantly covered with a layer of flames, and a slap landed on Ji Su's face, leaving a clear palm print burn mark.

Everyone present was shocked.

"Liehuo Palm Technique!"

The originally doubtful case instantly became clear.

Ji Su stood still for a long time, suddenly awakened from a dream, his voice filled with misery: "The Liehuo Palm Technique is a secret technique of our Ji family in the Flame Kingdom. How could you..."

Ying Wuji sneered: "You may not believe it when I say it, but my father's Lin Guifei is from the Li family. Your Ji family's techniques may be a secret to others, but to the Li family, it's just a joke.

Although my father favors Ying Wuque more, he also feels guilty towards me, so he secretly obtained many techniques and spells from the Li family's treasures and had them secretly sent to me."

Ji Su's mind couldn't keep up: "Nonsense! It's forbidden to spread other family's techniques, even for the Li family..."

Ying Wuji interrupted: "You don't know how much Lin Guifei loves my father, she is now the noble concubine of Kingdom Qian, the rules of the Li family mean nothing!"

Ji Su: "..."

Flame King: "..."

Zhao Ji: "..."

Zhao Ning: "..."

Although this explanation sounds like nonsense, it seems to make some sense!

Zhao Ji couldn't help but smile. Even if it was fake news, he was very satisfied with this fake news.

He really wanted to see the relationship between Lin Guifei and the Li family being stirred up.

And with this, there seems to be some tension between King Qian and Lin Guifei.

This guy with the surname Ying is really cunning!

Ying Wuji looked at the pale-faced Ji Su and pointed to his own nose with a smile: "Do you think I killed Wei Teng because I was hot-blooded or poisoned by Han Xie? When you were with Han Xie last night, weren't you both fighting each other? You thought he betrayed you, and he thought you betrayed him, right? Actually, I wanted to stop and spare myself, but I didn't! Damn it! I just wanted to live a peaceful life, but you dogs kept jumping in front of me every day. Now that you're dead, are you happy?"

All the eunuchs and palace maids in the hall turned pale and trembled on their knees.

Ah, this... Can we hear this?

Ji Su: "..."

His lips trembled, and his voice was trembling: "You said it out loud in front of everyone, aren't you afraid..."

Ying Wuji glanced at the Flame King: "Are you afraid that it will spread? So what if it spreads? What can you do to me? Even if you hear it, you'll pretend you didn't hear it, right? It's just the anger that was swallowed today, and it will be swallowed again! Don't just talk about this time, even if there's another Wei Teng, another Ji Su next time, I will still kill if I have to. Bite me!"

Ji Su: "..."

Flame King: "..."

Zhao Ning: "..."

Zhao Ji laughed and stroked his beard: "I said Ying Yue's brat couldn't be a pushover. This little brat is really cunning!"

Ying Wuji quickly corrected: "King Li, please don't. I'm just a pitiful victim!"

"I've never seen a victim as arrogant as you!"

Zhao Ji laughed and scolded, but there was no hint of blame in his tone.

He glanced at the palace maids and eunuchs kneeling on the ground in the hall, and his expression was extremely satisfied.

The situation of this major case has been determined, and no one can change it. No matter how shocking the sound is, it will be classified as a rumor, otherwise it will be a slap in the face for everyone.

However... rumors may not change the outcome, but they can undermine the morale of the Wei family.

With the reform approaching, it is destined to offend many people. So this blow to morale should not be in vain.

Ying Yue's family, this kid is really crazy, he really suits my taste!

Ying Wuji looked at the Flame King: "Flame King, don't be angry. Ji Su's intentions are indeed malicious. Anyway, he has committed a crime. It's just a matter of life or death. His exile is not a loss!"

Flame King: "..."

His face had become extremely gloomy, and a few pimples had burst on his well-maintained skin, without him realizing it.

Ji Su felt like he had fallen into an ice cellar. He had already resigned himself to death, but now an endless will to survive surged within him.

He quickly looked at the Flame King: "Father! Father! Let's make today's events public. I don't have to bear such a heavy blame. Ying Wuji..."

The Flame King snorted coldly, interrupting him: "Stop embarrassing yourself!"

After speaking, he didn't give Ji Su a chance to continue speaking.

With a wave of his hand, he directly canceled the communication talisman. What's the use of making it public?

Originally, only Ji Su would be punished.

Although he had to compensate Ying Wuji with a alkali mine, it was now uncomfortable to think about it, like eating a fly. But it was definitely not a reason to make it public.

Should I tell the whole world that I, the Flame King, have a stupid son like a pig?

The Flame Kingdom can't afford that!

"Father! Father!"

Ji Su's voice was desperate, but the communication talisman floating in the air had turned into ashes and fell to the ground.

Ying Wuji smiled and arched his hand towards Zhao Ji: "King Li, it seems that the Flame King intends to depose Ji Su and send him back to his country, and then let them exile him to the border, right?"

Zhao Ji didn't answer, he just said loudly: "Guards! King Li and Flame King have reached a consensus. Depose Ji Su, the hostage of Flame Kingdom, and send him back to his country!"

"Yes!"

The guards rushed into the hall, they were professionals in deposing people's cultivation.

Ji Su suddenly opened his eyes wide and shouted like a madman: "Nonsense! No one can judge me, I will triumph over the heavens!"

Before the guards could capture him, he suddenly rushed towards the stone pillar in the hall.

"Bang!"

A muffled sound, and a body fell to the ground.

He died just like that.

Zhao Ji glanced at Ying Wuji and calmly asked: "Killing someone, do you still need to kill their spirit?"

Ying Wuji smiled and arched his hand: "I am originally kind-hearted, solving problems for Your Majesty, willing to tarnish my reputation!"

Zhao Ning: "..."

Zhao Ji's mouth twitched, then he waved his hand: "Bring him! Ji Su, the hostage of Flame Kingdom, has confessed his deep guilt and feels ashamed towards his motherland. In order to maintain the friendship between Kingdom Qian and Kingdom Li, he chose to die by hitting the pillar to cleanse his sins! Such sentiment is rare, and my heart is touched. Therefore, I will grant him a thousand pieces of brocade and send him back to his homeland!"

"Your Majesty is benevolent! Your Majesty is wise!"

Ying Wuji immediately praised loudly.

The palace maids, eunuchs, and guards in the hall looked at each other, and then they realized it. They all echoed: "Your Majesty is benevolent! Your Majesty is wise!"

Zhao Ning: "..."

Zhao Ji: "..."

The body was quickly carried out, and the blood and brain matter on the floor of the hall were wiped clean.After the floor was cleaned, the palace maids and eunuchs also left.

They were all sensible people. Since they were called in by King Li to hear the news, they would naturally relay the message outside faithfully.

Soon, only three people were left in the hall.

It can be hard to make great work when its stolen from bit.ly/3iBfjkV.

Ying Wuji took a deep breath, and made a serious bow to Zhao Ji.

"Son-in-law Ying Wuji, greets father-in-law!"

Zhao Ji: "......"

Zhao Ning: "......"

Although this was indeed the case, the shift in mood was too abrupt, and they were somewhat unable to react for a moment.

~~~~~~

End of this volume.

Although the plot has been criticized by many readers as oppressive and unsatisfactory, the author believes there are still some ups and downs. Of course, as a feel-good story, this is quite a failure. The scenarios set for the protagonist are too dangerous, leading to a lack of security. Otherwise, the early stages wouldn't have been so disastrous.

From now on, all the essential crises of the protagonist will be resolved, and it's time to step into the political arena.

Everyone will see a more and more unrestrained Ying Wuji.

The theme of the next volume, borrowing a line from an ancient poem: Know that in your youth you should grasp the clouds, and vow to be the best in the world.

(End of this chapter)