Chapter 76: The Enchantress Bride

The sun shone brightly, the autumn air was crisp and invigorating.

On the edge of a boundless reed marsh, a young man lay flat on a green stone, hands resting behind his head, a foxtail in his mouth as he basked in the sunlight.

He recalled the imperial delicacies he’d enjoyed on the rafters of the palace kitchen a few days ago, and hunger stirred within him once more. If not for having drunk a few too many cups of the emperor’s fine wine, leaving traces of its aroma detectable by the palace’s vigilant guards, he might still—

Behind the counter lay the kitchen area. The wall facing the street had a window; Ayao had replaced the old sash window with one that slid open on both sides, serving as a takeout window for passing townsfolk. Above it hung a menu with clearly marked prices.

In the residential zone, Feng Yunshan instructed Zeng Yuheng to remember: they needed to establish a large medical clinic, an agricultural training institute, a police station, and a marketplace to facilitate trade. In short, the entire living area of the coal mine was to be treated as a burgeoning town.

Su Zizhan had already anticipated the outcome of the black-clad man being struck down by the Heaven-Tilting Seal. The seal was famed for its unrivaled offensive power, embodying the cataclysmic force of a fractured mountain and overturned heavens. No matter how powerful the black-clad man was, could he withstand such earth-shattering might?

Old Zhang’s acupuncture skills were unrivaled in the world. While not claiming to raise the dead, he could certainly cure all ailments.

Chengdu—as the central city in China’s rear lines—was no less prosperous than coastal regions. Here, war seemed a distant concept. People often said that if the flames of battle reached Chengdu, there would be nowhere left to flee, for escape would be impossible.

Lin Ming had spoken truly: at first, Li Yu’s arrival in Wu and Yue was regarded as insignificant by the noble families. China’s heartland was considered orthodox, with only HB and Guanzhong sometimes included; Bashu and Wu-Yue were always seen as wild and remote.

No one spoke; all nodded in silent agreement. At that moment, Gu Mo in the sky suddenly changed direction, flying straight toward the black-clad man.

Having said this, Yang Yong breathed a long sigh of relief and smiled amiably at the representatives from the construction company.

Compared to yesterday, the spiritual energy in the lake was noticeably richer, though full restoration would still require many days.

His loyal steward, James, had finally been convinced. Yang Yong visibly relaxed. If discord broke out between generals and captains, the momentum of the Yang family’s rise would be disrupted. Only when all hearts moved as one could their power be truly formidable. The Yang family must unite, not divide.

“Qin Mo, I hear the plum blossoms in Plum Blossom Valley are blooming beautifully. Shall we go admire them at noon?” An Yining suddenly suggested, her interest piqued.

When I returned to the prince’s residence, Spring Rain quietly informed me that Zhize had come back. He looked unwell and, upon learning of my secret outing, had flown into a rage. What should I do? I inwardly lamented.

“This was spoken by the princess herself—no backing out now,” He Ye stepped closer, appearing aggressive, yet a trace of amusement glimmered in his eyes.

The astral energy from the nine major apertures surged wildly, all converging within Xiao Yifeng’s Star Sword.

“No need. If it’s urgent, come to the clinic at eleven thirty at noon,” Zhao Yang replied.

This also resolved another mystery in Lin Hao’s mind: logically, without special devices to stabilize their souls, Zhang Deyi and Luo Feng’s spirits should have been destroyed alongside Zhang Deshuai’s attack. Yet not only were their souls intact, they had entered the great hall.

“It’s like this: I’ve come to pay respects to your young master Qian. Would you kindly inform him?” With that, I handed my visiting card to the attendant.

Once all matters in the camp were settled, Qin Aofeng and Xia Mo departed together, carrying the treasure map.