Chapter Forty-Four: Leave If You Want!

Within the South King's City flows an inner river, its source nestled atop one of the peaks of Mount Zhongnan. The river meanders down from the heights, ultimately passing through the heart of the city. This river is known as the South King River.

Each year, the city hosts a festival of river lanterns; the lanterns set afloat by the citizens drift along the South King River, carried by the descending terrain toward other cities of the empire.

Upon the river’s surface floats a grand vessel, entirely painted in vermilion. Atop this ship rises a four-story pavilion, its eaves curved upward like flying wings, adorned with colorful painted designs upon the walls. The structure is exquisitely ornate, reminiscent of a palace in its beauty.

Two figures stood before the pavilion.

“Dragon and Phoenix Pavilion…” Liu Ji nodded as he gazed at the signboard with its three bold, sweeping characters that seemed to leap and soar like dragons and phoenixes. “It means a gathering place for dragon and phoenix, huh. This group of noble youths is rather proud indeed.”

Those three characters alone were enough to deter any who lacked confidence in their abilities; to enter was to admit oneself among the gifted. Even those who made it inside could scarcely keep their composure. Of course, some thick-skinned individuals might disregard such concerns.

At that moment, a woman approached, dressed in a slit qipao, her elegant hair coiled atop her head, her figure graceful. She stopped before Liu Ji and gave a slight bow. “Young master, the ladies and gentlemen have been waiting for some time.”

Liu Ji nodded, and under the guidance of the qipao-clad hostess, entered the lavish pavilion. As he stepped in, a fragrant aroma greeted him, refreshing his spirit and clearing his mind.

Along the way, Liu Ji noted many scions of South King City’s noble families. Some rose to greet him with folded fists and bows, others only nodded, some maintained cold expressions, some ignored him entirely, and still others snorted derisively. Their attitudes were complex, but Liu Ji paid them little mind. The reason for their varied reactions was likely the original owner of his body, who, relying on his status, had offended many in the city. Now that Liu Ji had transmigrated into this body, all grievances would be directed at him.

Accompanied by Liu Yuqing, Liu Ji followed the hostess straight to the fourth floor. The view here was expansive: to the south, snow-capped peaks shrouded in clouds could be seen; shifting perspective revealed the shimmering waves, where one swell followed another; and along the riverbanks stood houses built of stone, some tall, some short, with crowds bustling to and fro. The spectacle was truly grand.

“Ha ha ha!” As Liu Ji admired the scenery, a booming laugh echoed, “To meet Young Master Liu is as difficult as climbing Mount Zhongnan!”

Liu Ji turned toward the voice and saw a man with lustrous hair and gentle features approaching. He recognized him as Zhang Yihan, eldest son of the Zhang family—the most prominent clan in South King City. Among the younger generation, Zhang Yihan was a leader of considerable renown.

Liu Ji had previously sought information on the city’s notable young figures, so he was well aware of Zhang Yihan’s reputation.

Upon reaching Liu Ji, Zhang Yihan extended his hand, smiling warmly. “Brother Liu, you spend all your days cloistered in the South King’s Mansion. What are you up to in there? Why not come out and join us now and then?”

“What else would I be doing? Surely just indulging in pleasure all day!” Suddenly an unpleasant voice interjected. “I heard that a few days ago, our esteemed Young Master Liu spent a fortune at Spring Night House to redeem a beautiful woman from the Northern Region. He’s likely been amusing himself with her ever since!”

Liu Ji glanced toward the speaker and saw Sun Zi’ang’s mocking sneer. It was indeed he who had made the remark. In fact, Sun Zi’ang’s words reminded Liu Ji of something he’d nearly forgotten—that the woman he’d rescued from the brothel, Xiao Lan, had been left unattended for several days.

He chose not to argue with Sun Zi’ang. Instead, he shook hands with Zhang Yihan and laughed, “It’s not that I don’t wish to join you all, but I fear you geniuses would look down on me. After all, I am but a good-for-nothing scion!”

“Heh.” Sun Zi’ang, munching on fruit, sneered sarcastically, “At least you have some self-awareness. You know you’re here only to be humiliated!”

His words caused those nearby to exchange glances, each seeing surprise and doubt reflected in the others’ faces. They wondered what had gotten into Sun Zi’ang—was he spoiling for a fight? Why did he immediately mock Liu Ji upon his arrival?

Still, no one said anything. The feud between Sun Zi’ang and Liu Ji was well-known, and none dared intervene. While Liu Ji had crossed swords with others, none had the courage to challenge him openly. Thus, of all the guests, only Sun Zi’ang dared confront Liu Ji in public, earning silent admiration for his boldness.

In their hearts, they gave him a thumbs-up.

“Sun Zi’ang, mind your tongue!” Zhang Yihan shot Sun Zi’ang a glance. Sun Zi’ang pouted and fell silent, and Zhang Yihan turned back to Liu Ji with a smile. “Brother Liu, you jest. Who among us would dare ridicule the young master? Who has the nerve?”

Liu Ji recognized Zhang Yihan’s banter and smiled without replying.

Zhang Yihan quickly gestured, “Look at me, so caught up in reminiscing. Please, young master, take the seat of honor!”

Liu Ji nodded and headed toward the chief seat. As he walked, he suddenly stopped and turned around, noticing Sun Zi’ang sitting beside Mu Wan Jun, whispering to her.

Today, Mu Wan Jun wore a light blue gown, with vivid red undergarments and a violet embroidered sash cinched at her slender waist. Her glossy black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall. Beneath her long, elegant brows gleamed bright, slightly sharp eyes. Her delicate features gave her the appearance of an earthly goddess.

Seeing Liu Ji pause and gaze at her, Sun Zi’ang frowned in confusion. “What do you want?”

Liu Ji replied, “Get up. Move aside.”

Sun Zi’ang’s face darkened at the blunt command. “Why should I? This is my seat.”

Without another word, Liu Ji raised his hand and flicked his wrist. A sharp, forceful surge of astral energy shot out like a bullet, whistling through the air.

Boom!

The astral blast struck the wall, leaving a gaping hole.

Swish!

Sun Zi’ang sprang to his feet, his eyes blazing as he glared at Liu Ji, his expression so grim it seemed a fight might erupt at any moment.

“Fine, I’ll move! Don’t think I’m afraid of you!” He spat the words and stalked toward another vacant seat, glaring resentfully at Liu Ji.

…

Those present exchanged uneasy glances, surprise and oddity written across their faces. They had expected Sun Zi’ang to fight Liu Ji, but who would have thought he’d concede so easily?

Yet, it was hardly surprising; Sun Zi’ang might be bold, but he would never truly dare lay a hand on the young master. Regardless of Liu Ji’s current strength, his status alone was enough—harm him, and his father would bring troops to your door.

That would be a terror beyond imagining.

…