Chapter 471: Chapter 115: Master Mo, Get Lost!

“Why could that Shui Ling see through my disguise in an instant and discern my gender?” Mu Qingge gazed icily at the man opposite her.

This conceited guy had once boasted that with the forbidden techniques he imbued in the Illusionary Artifact, no one could see through her disguise unless their cultivation surpassed his, right?

In the courtyard, Si Mo’s white robe was spotless, fluttering in the breeze with an air of elegance and otherworldliness. Faced with Mu Qingge’s questioning, he didn’t show much expression, only a faint smile on his lips as he said, “I didn’t expect to find a bloodline endowed with spiritual eyes here in Linchuan.”

“What did you say?” Mu Qingge was shocked.

Was Si Mo implying that Shui Ling also possessed a unique bloodline?

Wasn’t it said that there were no people with special bloodlines in Linchuan?

The case of that anomaly Han Caicai was an exception because he was exiled here, right?

But what about Shui Ling? What’s going on?

The clear eyes revealing unguarded true emotions gratified Si Mo.

To him, Mu Qingge had no need to conceal herself in front of him at all.

He naturally reached out and held the delicate hand. Mu Qingge, immersed in thoughts about the bloodline issue of Shui Ling, did not notice the man’s ’bold act.’

“Indeed, those rooted and proliferated in Linchuan do not have inherited bloodlines. Yet, there’s a situation similar to the Mu Family in the Wanxiang Building, being those abandoned by their families.” Si Mo explained with a slight smile.

Mu Qingge listened intently, her brows furrowing slightly.

Si Mo’s heart tugged, reaching out to smooth the crease on her brow, earning himself a fierce glare from Mu Qingge.

He chuckled inwardly and withdrew his hand.

Mu Qingge also forcefully withdrew the hand held by him, asked, “Are you saying that Shui Ling also came from the Middle Ancient Realm?”

She hadn’t forgotten that Si Mo had said that there was a world larger and more powerful than Linchuan, known as the Middle Ancient Realm.

“Not necessarily her,” Si Mo replied.

Mu Qingge narrowed her eyes, lightly pressing her lips, waiting for his explanation.

With a deep, magnetic voice, Si Mo slowly said, “Perhaps, her ancestors came from the Middle Ancient Realm and stayed in the Linchuan Realm. I can sense that the spiritual eye bloodline within her has a kind of atavism.”

“Atavism?” Mu Qingge whispered softly.

She could understand what it meant. Si Mo’s words suggested that Shui Ling’s abilities came from her unique bloodline, which may have lain dormant within her family for generations without an heir. Yet in her generation, it inexplicably became innately activated, granting her the ability to see through all disguises.

“Why are you so certain?” Mu Qingge looked at Si Mo with a tinge of inquisitiveness in her eyes.

Si Mo’s lips curved slightly, his tone calm as he said, “Because, in today’s Middle Ancient Realm, the lineage of spiritual eyes has long vanished.”

Mu Qingge’s eyes narrowed; this answer stunned her.

It also made Si Mo’s words seem closer to reality.

“Enough about the lineage of spiritual eyes, it’s better for you to think about how to teach a lesson to those who dare to plot against you.” Si Mo cared little about Shui Ling; instead, his concern lay heavily on those who used Fu Tianlong to scheme against Mu Qingge.

Even though Mu Qingge wasn’t harmed and had uncovered the treachery, he couldn’t tolerate anyone daring to treat the one he cherished so recklessly.

If he hadn’t feared that Mu Qingge would be displeased, he would have long dispatched Gu Ye to wipe out that person’s entire family.

“Why bother about him?” Mu Qingge said indifferently.

The enmity between her and Feng Yugui dated back to Tu City. No, it was more accurate to say it began once it was discovered in Huan City that he was the pillar supporting Zhu.

If he didn’t make a move today, he’d likely seize the chance to do so tomorrow.

“When did little Ge’er become so magnanimous?” Si Mo’s amber eyes flickered with a deep, dangerous light.

“Magnanimous?” Mu Qingge sneered, “Hmph, such a person isn’t even worth me caring about.”

This statement made the danger in Si Mo’s eyes instantly fade. The depth in his gaze softened as if turned into a gentle spring breeze. “Just an ant, indeed, not worthy of little Ge’er’s concern.”

Mu Qingge couldn’t be bothered to respond, only furrowing her brow in silence.

Seeing her distressed expression, Si Mo couldn’t help but ask, “What is troubling little Ge’er?”

Mu Qingge did not hide, merely saying, “Although Shui Ling has not proclaimed my disguise, I still feel as if I have given her leverage.”

“Then I’ll help Little Ge’er kill her.” Si Mo said casually.

The tone made it sound as if killing someone was as easy as cutting vegetables.

Mu Qingge glared at him and warned, “Don’t you dare do that!”

“Killing her would solve everything, wouldn’t it? Then Little Ge’er wouldn’t have to worry so much.” Si Mo said, his voice slightly deep. He really didn’t like the way Mu Qingge put so much energy into others, even if that person was her enemy.

“Killing people over a disagreement, how impressive you are, Holy King!” Mu Qingge sneered sarcastically.

Seeing Mu Qingge seem angry, Si Mo immediately reined in his cold killing intent and said indulgently, “Fine, if Little Ge’er says not to kill, then we won’t.”

Mu Qingge rolled her eyes at him and looked away.

Secretly, she thought: It seems I should find a chance to talk with Shui Ling.

Having decided, the tension between her brows instantly disappeared. However, she still looked at the man beside her with displeasure and asked, “When are you going to get lost?”

“What does ’get lost’ mean? Is it a leash for a dog?” Si Mo looked at her with an innocent expression.

Mu Qingge’s mouth twitched. She wanted to bluntly say, ’Get lost means scram! Simply put, when are you going to leave!’

But, thinking of this man’s tendency to kill over a disagreement, she felt stifled and held back.

Under Si Mo’s gaze, she gritted her teeth and subtly said, “I mean, when will you go take care of your business?” Stop wasting time following me!

“Is Little Ge’er disliking my company?” Si Mo immediately appeared extremely aggrieved. As clever as he was, how could he not understand the true meaning hidden in her explanation?

Mu Qingge was speechless.

A mighty man of nine feet acting so innocent and wronged in front of her made her want to back away.

“I can’t be bothered with you.” Mu Qingge turned around and entered the small house in the courtyard, leaving Si Mo standing alone outside.

As soon as she left, a shadow appeared behind Si Mo, quick as a gust of wind, leaving no trace of its appearance, as if it materialized out of thin air.

“Holy Master!” Gu Ye knelt on one knee behind Si Mo, bowing respectfully.

Si Mo’s aura changed, his white clothes fluttering like a deity. Instantly, a black mist rose around him, blending with the night, dark and eerie, yet seemingly incredibly powerful.

He was as handsome as a god, yet his aura was as powerful as a demon.

These two opposing qualities appeared in him, yet they could perfectly merge without conflict.

“How are things on Gu Ya’s side?” Si Mo asked indifferently.

The handsome and resolute features bore no more of the gentle tenderness they had while speaking with Mu Qingge.

Yet this Si Mo seemed to be the master Gu Ye was familiar with. He lifted his head, his gaze intense as he answered, “Gu Ya is waiting at Sunset Wilderness under orders for Han Caicai. They’ve sent word that Han Caicai’s people have arrived.”

Si Mo nodded imperceptibly, his cold voice saying, “Since they have arrived, have Gu Ya leave. You two investigate the people from the Heavenly Doctor Clan of Ba Country and keep an eye on Han Caicai’s every move.”

These two people with special bloodlines appearing around his Little Ge’er, he didn’t know if it was fortune or misfortune; he had to keep a closer eye on them for Little Ge’er.

If anything was amiss, he’d have them ’get lost,’ sparing Little Ge’er any worries.

“Yes, Holy Master.” Gu Ye bowed his head in acceptance. Then hesitantly said, “About the Holy Yuan Empire…”

Si Mo responded nonchalantly, “Ignore it.”

Gu Ye’s mouth twitched and disappeared silently.

When he reappeared, he was already far from Sangzhi City.

He turned to look at the city’s silhouette dimly lit by the night behind him and said without words, “It seems now in the Holy Master’s heart, nothing compares to the Lady of the Mu Family.”

After sending Gu Ye away, Si Mo also headed towards the small courtyard’s house.

However, the door he entered was the same one Mu Qingge had walked through earlier.

“You’re in the wrong room.” Mu Qingge, meditating cross-legged on the bed, heard the commotion, glanced at him, then closed her eyes again.

Si Mo seemed unaware, lying down sideways on the bed. “The night is deep and the dew heavy, sharing the room, we can keep each other warm. Little Ge’er, just focus on your cultivation and ignore me.”

His shameless words made Mu Qingge’s eyebrows slightly twitch.

She ended her cultivation and opened her eyes to look at the man across from her. In her clear eyes, his tall figure was reflected.

Suddenly, her clear eyes flashed, and she slowly squinted, leaning back lazily, feeling extremely relaxed. She gave a mischievous smile and said to Si Mo, “What? Does the beauty want to offer themselves to warm my bed again?”

“If little Ge’er needs it, I naturally offer myself.” Si Mo’s lips, like cherry petals, curled slowly, overflowing with charm.

Mu Qingge’s eyes flickered, her smile deepening with amusement.

She extended her finger and beckoned to Si Mo, “Come over.”

These two words, falling on Si Mo’s ears, sounded like heavenly music.

His amber eyes brightened, and he vanished instantly.

When he reappeared, he had already embraced Mu Qingge, both falling onto the wide, soft bed.

“Don’t move, little Ge’er.” Si Mo stopped Mu Qingge from trying to speak.

Mu Qingge was stunned but heard the man continue, “Just let me hold you and rest, okay?”

Her lips twitched; Mu Qingge didn’t feel the slightest hint of tender affection in the words but instead gritted her teeth and said, “You treat me like a pillow, huh?”

“What is a pillow?” Si Mo asked in confusion.

Mu Qingge was too lazy to explain, kicking his calf with her foot and snorted, “You promised to warm the bed, so you have to do it.”

Si Mo laughed, “With the two of us hugging like this, aren’t we warm enough? Why need to deliberately warm the bed?”

Pshaw!

How can she sleep while being held like this?

Mu Qingge protested, “Get down!”

“No, this is quite nice,” Si Mo hugged her tighter.

“Let go!” Mu Qingge warned.

Si Mo innocently said, “It was little Ge’er who invited me first.”

These words made Mu Qingge feel like crying without tears. She admitted she had let the wolf into the house, didn’t she? Originally, she wanted to tease the man as before, making him leave awkwardly; how did things turn out like this?

“I regret it, no need for you to warm the bed, leave!” Mu Qingge’s hands firmly pressed against Si Mo’s chest, trying hard to create distance between them.

But no matter how she struggled, the distance between them remained intimate.

Mu Qingge tried to use her spiritual power but found that her spiritual power was operating sluggishly, like falling into a quagmire, completely ineffective.

No need to think about it; she knew it was this man’s trick.

“Get off me!”

“Be good, sleep now, it’s late.”

“Get out!”

“Shh, careful not to disturb others.”

“…”

The sounds of contention transmitted from inside the house to outside.

In another room, You He and Hua Yue were lying on the same bed, listening to the evocative conversation, palms sweaty.

“You… You He, aren’t we really going in? Will little Lady be in trouble?” Hua Yue asked worriedly in a low voice.

You He was extremely restless as well, yet she smiled bitterly, “If we rush in and see something we shouldn’t, wouldn’t it be worse?”

“But what if little Lady suffers a loss?” Hua Yue’s voice was helpless.

When leaving Qin Country, they promised the old Lord and eldest young lady to take good care of little Lady!

“We have to trust little Lady.” You He said firmly, “If Master Mo really harbors ill will, little Lady wouldn’t keep him by our side.”

“You’re also right.” Hua Yue nodded in agreement. Suddenly, she realized, “Could Master Mo be the husband that little Lady herself chose?”

“Shh~!” You He quickly covered Hua Yue’s mouth, stopping her from speaking further.

After the noises outside the adjacent room gradually quieted, You He spoke softly to Hua Yue, “Such things, if little Lady doesn’t admit, we can’t speak indiscreetly.”

Hua Yue nodded vigorously.

Those words slipped out. At this voice, she still felt anxious.

If they were heard by little Lady, causing displeasure, she might not be allowed to continue serving.

With this possibility, Hua Yue, with a sobbing plea, “You He, don’t tell little Lady about this!”

“Don’t worry.” You He comforted Hua Yue and then said, “Let’s rest too. After waking up, everything will be fine.”

The room of the two girls gradually quieted down.

Outside, the cold moon and sparse stars, the silky clouds gradually hiding their silhouettes.

In a blink, the moon sank, stars fell, and the radiant sun rose, illuminating the earth, making the dewdrops on the grass tips particularly glistening.

Sunlight streamed through the window lattice, spilling onto the large bed in the room.

The two people embraced in sleep were enveloped in this warm dawn.

Mu Qingge’s long eyelashes fluttered slightly, opening her eyes.

Sleepiness faded from her gaze, seeing the room’s arrangement clearly.

Suddenly feeling a breath beside her, Mu Qingge was startled, turning her gaze.

What she saw was an elegantly handsome face, so close she could see each inch of skin clearly.

She suddenly froze.

Si Mo, in his sleep, carried an innate coolness, as if isolating him from the mortal world. It was entirely unlike her impression; which truly represented him?

Mu Qingge’s eyes carried some confusion, yet she unconsciously used her gaze to meticulously outline Si Mo’s unparalleled features.

’I actually slept in his arms all night!’ Mu Qingge marveled inwardly.

This night, she slept remarkably soundly. Waking up, she felt incredibly energized.

Suddenly, she felt puzzled about her relationship with the man in front of her.

He was originally the bright moon in the night sky, while she was like the rising sun. They were not supposed to have any intersection, yet they met mysteriously.

His interest, curiosity in her, even omniscience, once made her feel repulsed.

Yet she quietly adapted to everything about him, accepting all he had to offer.

He entered her world in a manner distinct from himself, becoming her strongest support, making it many times difficult to tell reality from dream.

However, this sensation was not something Mu Qingge favored.

With a light frown, unconsciously, Mu Qingge’s lips had already tightened.

She never wanted to depend on anyone for survival; she desired to rely on her strength, to dominate the heavens and earth, becoming powerful, standing at the pinnacle of the world.

Now, with Si Mo appearing by her side like a mountain. And one day, she hoped she could also grow to that height, to be by his side when he needs, repaying this kindness.

Become strong! I need to become even stronger! Purple Realm is but the starting point!

Mu Qingge’s gaze gradually became firm.

Like a reef in the deep sea, undeterred by the surging waves.

“Why frown so tightly?” Suddenly, Si Mo opened his eyes, looking at her with smiling depth but no trace of early morning confusion.

Mu Qingge was taken aback, her clear eyes swiftly regaining calm. With a cold voice, she said, “Pretending to sleep is amusing, huh?”

Si Mo chuckled, “I just saw you were watching intently and couldn’t bear to interrupt.”

With a cold snort, Mu Qingge rolled out of bed, turned away from the man on the bed, and sorted out her wrinkled clothes.

Si Mo propped himself up, holding a smile, watching the slender and upright back, suddenly saying, “Last night I slept very well, been long since I felt this peace, all thanks to little Ge’er.”

Mu Qingge’s hands paused, a flash of realization: ’Turns out I’m not the only one who slept soundly.’

But this thought, just emerging, was quickly shrugged off by Mu Qingge.

She turned around, her face cold: “If you’re well-rested, then get out quickly!”

You He and Hua Yue will soon come in to assist her, and she doesn’t want the two to see her sharing a room overnight with a man.

This time, Si Mo didn’t linger and left.

However, what he said as he left made Mu Qingge so angry that she wanted to kill someone.

“I know little Ge’er’s face is thin. I’ll leave now and come back tonight.”

“Damn it!” Staring at the empty bed, Mu Qingge grumbled through gritted teeth.

By the time Mu Qingge calmed herself and left the room, Si Mo was nowhere to be seen, and she had no idea where he had gone.

On leaving, not seeing any sign of Si Mo, Mu Qingge figured he must be busy with his own affairs, so she left the temporary courtyard with You He and Hua Yue.

The registration for the Medicine Tower Branch has ended; now they just have to wait two days to be led into the Medicine Tower by their people.

These two days could be spent exploring Sangzhi City.

Approaching the meeting place agreed upon with the Wei siblings the day before, Mu Qingge saw that four people were already standing in the pavilion.

“Mu Ge, you’re here!” Wei Guanguan, with sharp eyes, was the first to spot Mu Qingge approaching and exclaimed joyfully.

Mu Qingge nodded and entered the pavilion.

With You He and Hua Yue by her side, the four people in the hall all stood up to greet her.

Wei Qi walked up to her and said, “Mu Ge, you’re just in time. We were just talking about settling the score with Feng Yugui.”

“That’s right, we can’t just let this bad guy go!” Shui Ling agreed angrily and even gave Fu Tianlong a fierce look.

The latter, under her glare, had no choice but to step forward and say to Mu Qingge, “I’m sorry.”

His voice wasn’t loud and carried a hint of reluctance.

Mu Qingge didn’t mind much, but Shui Ling wasn’t satisfied and kicked Fu Tianlong, saying, “So insincere.”

Instantly, Fu Tianlong’s face turned red, and he had to loudly say to Mu Qingge, “Mu Ge, I’m sorry!”

“You were just used by a scoundrel,” Mu Qingge laughed, not taking it to heart.

She then looked at Wei Qi and said, “You plan to trouble Feng Yugui? Don’t forget, your father is the City Lord of Tu City, and he is, after all, a prince of Li Country.”

“So what? Who told him to bully you so despicably!” Wei Qi said indignantly.

Wei Guanguan added, “Right! Not only did he scheme against you, but he also defamed my reputation behind my back. Even if you don’t seek revenge, I will!” After speaking, she glared fiercely at Fu Tianlong.

Mu Qingge scanned the faces of these people, and she roughly understood.

Apparently, after they went back last night, they must have ’interrogated’ Fu Tianlong to extract all the details.

Fu Tianlong, feeling uncomfortable under Wei Guanguan’s glare, said sullenly, “That guy tricked and used me; I won’t just let him off easily.”

“How do you plan to find him then? And how will you get back at him?” Mu Qingge asked with a smile.

Wei Qi immediately grinned and said, “When we came, we already got the information. Feng Yugui is also a student at the Medicine Tower this session and today he organized a boat outing on Cui Lake with some seniors.”

“And then?” Mu Qingge asked.

Before Wei Qi could answer, Wei Guanguan jumped in, “We’ll expose his vile deeds, telling everyone how he impersonated you, claiming your elixirs as his own. And what happened yesterday, we’ll speak of it all and shame him publicly.”

“We even have a witness!” Shui Ling, full of momentum, said while tugging at Fu Tianlong’s sleeve.

The four of them, united in their indignation, amused Mu Qingge.

“It seems you all have a plan?”

The four nodded earnestly, eyes ablaze with the fire of revenge.

“In that case, let’s take a trip to Cui Lake then,” Mu Qingge said, going along with their idea without further comment.

Seeing Mu Qingge nod in agreement, the four immediately began arranging for a boat to dock.

Once everyone boarded, the boat slowly left the shore, following the waterway toward Cui Lake.

…

Cui Lake is a famous scenic spot in Sangzhi City.

Known for its jade-like emerald green waters, the lake surface is as calm as a mirror. Within the lake, countless lotus blooms, and in the distance, mist drifts, resembling an Immortal Realm.

A two-tiered boat slowly emerged from a dense area of reeds, creating ripples that disturbed the calm lake surface.

On the boat, musical instruments played together, producing sounds akin to celestial music.

On the deck, a round table was set, around which five people were seated.

The five included three men and two women.

One of them was Feng Yugui.

The other two men: one was as slender as bamboo, possessing an elegant, ethereal air, while the other had sharp, sinister features exuding a chilling vibe.

The remaining two women were both bright and attractive.

The woman in yellow was lively and charming, with a full, enticing figure. The woman in white was cold as ice, her features exquisitely beautiful.

These four, with entirely different temperaments, gathered at Feng Yugui’s banquet, an impressive sight.

Yet, upon closer inspection, one could discern Feng Yugui’s attempts to curry favor with the four. Typically proud, he wore a smile now, raising a glass to toast them.

The elegant, bamboo-like man seemed to only be interested in the icy, beautiful lady in white. Meanwhile, the woman in the yellow dress appeared closer to the sinister-featured man.

Feng Yugui raised his wine glass, lightly clinking it with the sinister man to his right before addressing the others, “Today, I am privileged to have invited you all for a lake outing. I hope you all enjoy yourselves.”

Having said that, he downed the wine in his glass in one go.

The other four, except for the woman in white who merely sipped, also drank their wine.

The woman in white’s actions did not anger Feng Yugui; instead, after glancing at her, he had a meaningful smile on his lips.

Today, he initially intended to invite the two disciples of the Medicine Tower Branch Director.

They were the sinister-featured man and the charming woman in yellow. Diao Yuan and Zhu Ling were the prized students of the Medicine Tower Branch Director.

Unexpectedly, due to Zhu Ling’s connections, two other prominent figures from the Medicine Tower also appeared.

It wasn’t until they met that he learned Zhu Ling and the frosty Shang Zisu were friends, and Zhao Nanxing, the Prince of Yu Country with the greatest alchemy talent, was Shang Zisu’s admirer.

Understanding relationships between men and women, Feng Yugui didn’t need to ask anyone to discern this layer from Zhao Nanxing’s blatant gaze.

Shang Zisu and Zhao Nanxing were disciples of the top alchemist in the Medicine Tower, Lou Chuanbai.

Rumor had it that Medicine Tower Director Hua Cangzhu and Lou Chuanbai were secretly at odds, yet their disciples could sit together so peacefully, which was impressive.

This made him admire Zhu Ling’s abilities.

Despite their masters’ rivalry, she could become friends with an ice-cold beauty like Shang Zisu.

Originally, Feng Yugui planned to apprentice under Hua Cangzhu at the Medicine Tower, which is why he used connections to invite Diao Yuan and Zhu Ling.

Now, with Shang Zisu and Zhao Nanxing unexpectedly present, it was a pleasant surprise for him.

In particular, Shang Zisu, famous as the most beautiful woman in the Medicine Tower Branch, lived up to her reputation upon meeting.

As for Zhao Nanxing…

Feng Yugui automatically ignored him.

If he were the Crown Prince of Yu Country, perhaps Feng Yugui would view him differently. But now, with thoughts developing towards Shang Zisu, naturally, he would see Zhao Nanxing unfavorably.

“Senior Sister Shang, this venison is specially prepared, taking six months for the entire process. It can beautify and enhance one’s appearance. As an Alchemy Master, why not taste it and see if it is as miraculous as rumored?” Feng Yugui placed a piece of venison in Shang Zisu’s bowl.

But Shang Zisu frowned slightly at this, her refined and delicate features emotionless.

Suddenly, a pair of chopsticks appeared, taking the venison from her bowl.

Feng Yugui looked up unhappily to see Zhao Nanxing smiling faintly, “Junior Sister Shang has a hygiene obsession and doesn’t like others placing food in her bowl.”

The words nearly implied that he found it dirty.

Feng Yugui’s eyes darkened for a moment, a cold glint flashed by, yet he displayed an apologetic expression toward Shang Zisu and said, “I’m sorry, Senior Sister Shang, it was abrupt of me.”

However, Shang Zisu still remained unresponsive.

“Your Highness Third Prince Feng, please don’t mind, Zisu is like this with everyone.” Zhu Ling lightly laughed with her hand covering her mouth, trying to smooth things over.

Feng Yugui immediately laughed, lifted his wine glass, and apologized to Zhu Ling and Diao Yuan: “Senior Brother Diao, Senior Sister Zhu, I was inattentive just now, I hope you don’t mind.”

With one sentence from Zhu Ling, Feng Yugui regained clarity.

Chasing women is not suitable at this moment. His purpose for hosting this banquet today is for Diao Yuan and Zhu Ling.

If he can bribe the two of them, he will be able to introduce himself to Hua Cangzhu.

Diao Yuan snorted coldly, arrogantly lifted his wine glass, and drank alone.

This attitude displeased Feng Yugui, but he was bound by the other’s status and had to hide his displeasure in his heart.

Seeing that Feng Yugui’s attention was no longer on Shang Zisu, Zhao Nanxing showed a gentle smile towards her. He felt once again that it was right to shamelessly tag along!

However, Shang Zisu seemed not to notice, didn’t respond at all.

It felt as though all her focus was attracted by the beautiful scenery around her, leaving no room for others.

Zhao Nanxing seemed accustomed to this, no matter how indifferent Shang Zisu was to him, he gladly stayed by her side.

To Shang Zisu, the mutual flattering among the three nearby, as well as the fervent and sincere gaze from the other side, were as fleeting as the breeze, leaving no trace.

She was just gazing at the distant misty waves, watching those faintly visible blooming lotuses.

Suddenly, within her sight, a small boat slowly sailed through the winding waterway. This boat was small, with only one layer, incomparable to the one beneath her.

Yet, the person standing at the bow of the boat caught her attention and she couldn’t look away.

Red clothes like flames, sleeves fluttered. Like scorching fire, or the blazing sun on the horizon.

Some people are born to become the focus within a crowd, like an eagle among chickens, standing out and impossible to ignore.

The stunningly charming and upright figure before her was one such person.

Shang Zisu watched intently, her previously calm eyes for the first time showed emotional waves. It was an astonishment in its unexpected splendor, seeming to blow away the frost in her eyes.

But then, the frost slowly gathered again, returning to its original state. The only difference was hiding that touch of awe beneath the frost.

“Zisu, what are you looking at so intently?” Suddenly, Zhu Ling’s curiosity was piqued by Shang Zisu’s unusual behavior.

Interrupted, Shang Zisu lowered her gaze indifferently and spoke in a cold tone: “Nothing.”

She had no intention of sharing that glimpse of splendor with others.

However, just as she finished, that small boat sailed into everyone’s view.

The first to show a sour face was Feng Yugui.

He had people guarding every exit of Cui Lake earlier, not wanting anyone to intrude and spoil the mood during his banquet; yet surprisingly, someone managed to slip through.

When he saw the person in red standing at the bow, his expression turned even uglier.

“Quickly, Fish Chief. Paddle toward that double-decked cruise boat!” Compared to the small boat, the two-layer cruise boat Feng Yugui had chartered was more conspicuous. Wei Qi immediately instructed the boatman.

Mu Qingge observed the few eager people, amused in her heart. ’Coming to seek trouble with Feng Yugui, truly with a passionate spirit!’

Just exposing him, is that considered revenge?

Mu Qingge was indifferent about their plans; she had her own ideas.

Often, to bring about one’s downfall, they must first be led into arrogance. Then, on this path of arrogance, she will send Feng Yugui on his way.

“No need to deliberately approach, just pass by them will do,” Mu Qingge suddenly spoke up.

“Got it!” The boatman adjusted the direction of the oars.

Wei Qi and Wei Guanguan immediately stood at Mu Qingge’s sides, the former curiously asked, “Why? Mu Ge, do you have a new plan?”

The latter also asked anxiously, “Mu Ge, you’re not planning to let that guy go, are you?”

Their anxious looks left Mu Qingge speechless. It seemed, Feng Yugui’s target was her.

“Of course not.” Mu Qingge affirmed.

“Mu Ge must have her plans, we’ll just cooperate from the side,” Shui Ling reassured, adjusting her stance after a quick glance at Mu Qingge.

Fu Tianlong looked at Shui Ling, muttered, feeling wronged in his heart: “Why do you always think he is great at everything?”

Ignoring him, Shui Ling gave him a sidelong glance, disinclined to explain.

The small boat gradually approached, the figures on the bow became clearer.

Seeing those unrelenting figures, Feng Yugui stood tensely, as if he could see the mocking smile on Mu Qingge’s face.

“Your Highness Third Prince Feng, what’s the matter?” Zhu Ling inquired with a cheerful smile. Her eyes were filled with curiosity.

“It’s nothing,” Feng Yugui replied with a forced smile, steeling himself as he continued, “I just hope irrelevant people don’t spoil our leisure.”

“Cui Lake, being a famous spot in Sangzhi City, is normal for others to enjoy. One can’t speak of ruining leisure just like that. I was wondering why Cui Lake seemed so desolately quiet today.” Zhao Nanxing casually remarked with a faint smile. After speaking, he habitually glanced at Shang Zisu but noticed she wasn’t looking at him. It seemed she didn’t hear his words.

With a nonchalant smile, he had long been accustomed to it.

“Zhao Nanxing, you’re merely accompanying guests today.” Diao Yuan said coldly. His voice, like his demeanor, brought an icy chill.

Zhao Nanxing grinned, not speaking further.

Zhu Ling chuckled, trying to mediate: “It’s just a few tourists, causing us to argue here.”

“Senior Sister Zhu is right,” Feng Yugui replied with a smile, and sat down again.

Zhu Ling’s smile remained, casting a playful gaze towards Feng Yugui: “Your Highness Third Prince, you seem to know them? If they are friends, why not invite them to join us?”

“There’s no need,” Feng Yugui swiftly refused.

He might not know himself, since being frightened away by Mu Qingge in Tu City, he’s become somewhat afraid to see her.

His haste deepened the playful look in Zhu Ling’s eyes.

Without insisting further, she shifted her gaze to the approaching small boat, scrutinizing the figures onboard with interest.

They seemed to be just a group of youngsters.

Suddenly, her eyes brightened, her gaze fixating on the striking figure in red at the helm.

Such indescribably beautiful youth was a first for her.

The boat drew closer, and Mu Qingge suddenly shouted: “Boatman, stop for a moment.”

The small boat halted in response, hovering on the water.

Mu Qingge stood on the deck at the bow, slightly tilting her head to look towards the people on the two-layer cruise boat, a light smile curved at her lips, as she clasped her hands in greeting: “Your Highness Third Prince, long time no see.”

“It seems they are indeed acquaintances,” Zhu Ling withdrew her gaze, speaking to Diao Yuan.

It appeared the remark was directed to Diao Yuan, but in reality, it was meant for Feng Yugui to hear.

Feeling slightly embarrassed, Feng Yugui explained: “The three of them are also from Li Country, that pair of siblings with seven-point resemblance are the Dragon and Phoenix children of Li Country’s Tu City’s Wei Linlang. The other two seem to be from Ba Country; I don’t know them. As for that red-clothed youth…” Introducing Mu Qingge left Feng Yugui at a loss, as he didn’t know how to describe.

But under Zhu Ling and Diao Yuan’s gaze, he had to speak: “She seems to be Wei Linlang’s friend across generations.”

“Since they are familiar, why not invite them over,” Zhu Ling suggested with a smile. She glanced at Diao Yuan: “Senior Brother, what do you think?”

Diao Yuan’s demeanor was arrogant as he glanced at the group, aside from a fleeting admiration for Mu Qingge, he regarded the rest with indifference.

Apparently, he felt these people were unworthy to sit together with him.

He didn’t answer, which disappointed Zhu Ling, who then said to Feng Yugui: “It seems Senior Brother doesn’t enjoy crowds.”

Her words were quite explicit.

Feng Yugui felt relieved by this and quickly summoned his guards: “Escort that small boat to the shore; no other boats are allowed on Cui Lake today.”

This domineering order seemed as if he was the Prince of Yu Country. Zhao Nanxing sneered internally.

“Your Highness Third Prince Feng, why so hastily repelling guests? I heard you can now refine Advanced Elixirs, hence my visit to witness the splendor of Advanced Elixirs.” Mu Qingge said with a sly smile.

That smile was like a cunning little fox.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep