Naturally, White Jade Xia would not seek out Jiang Wang.

What purpose would there be in seeking Jiang Wang?

The record of Jiang Wang’s initial foray into the Inner Mansion realm, set during the Qing Shi incident, still hung like a radiant star in the firmament. No Inner Mansion cultivator in the world had yet surpassed it. Now, having already broken through to the Divine临 realm, and granted a Marquisate for his military exploits, he had long since stepped out of the circle of “young heavenly talents” to compete against the most powerful cultivators of all ages. What right did White Jade Xia, who couldn’t even claim the title of “Yue Country’s Strongest Young Heavenly Talent,” have to challenge him at his door?

Yet, for some inexplicable reason, Zhao Rui knew Jiang Wang, and seemingly quite well. In that light, being defeated by this individual of the same realm didn’t seem quite so difficult to accept. Birds of a feather flock together; since Zhao Rui could be so familiar with Jiang Wang, it was only reasonable that he would be somewhat formidable.

White Jade Xia mused for a moment, then found a suitable branch, his heart finding unexpected peace as he lay down. He still hadn’t realized that before knowing Zhao Rui, such thoughts would never have crossed his mind; he would never have conceded defeat as “reasonable.” But everything had unfolded in such a subtle manner.

A “Struggler” and a “Lying Corpse” traveling together – it was like two tigers locked in contention, and inevitably, one would influence the other. Whether the east wind prevailed over the west, or the west wind over the east, remained to be seen. But in that moment, lying there, he simply ceased to think.

The night leaked stars and moon, and the evening breeze carried the chirping of insects. It truly was, surprisingly, quite pleasant.

“What joy in birth, what sorrow in death? What is held close, what fades away? Gathering, scattering, parting, uniting… seize the moment’s pleasure,” the singing girl’s voice was captivatingly melodious. The pipa plucked, the ancient zither sang. The dance girls’ cloud sleeves billowed, their graceful forms reflected on the screen.

Yuwen Duo sat primly, his voice low as he said, “It seems Marquis Wu’an has no intention of deepening our alliance.”

Helian Yunyun, watching the dance on stage, replied casually, “Such matters don’t require him to speak of them. Don’t waste time with meaningless probes. Just accompany him in enjoying himself; that’s always been your specialty, hasn’t it?”

Yuwen Duo grimaced. “I truly haven’t tried to entertain Zhao Ru Cheng… I only returned from the frontier not long ago!”

Helian Yunyun didn’t respond, merely appreciating the song and dance, praising sincerely, “Chu girls are slender and soft, Chu songs are melodious… I am quite fond of them!”

Yuwen Duo felt a pang of heartache, but still said, “Since Your Highness is fond of them, please feel free to summon them to the palace.”

This troupe of singing girls and dancers was one he had painstakingly brought from the land of Chu, cherishing them dearly and only rarely summoning them for private performances. It was only because Helian Yunyun had graced this “Ming Luan Performance House” with her presence today that he had brought them out as an offering. But now that Helian Yunyun had spoken thus, how could he possibly say, “You are welcome to visit often”?

“Though I am fond of them, such decadent sounds will inevitably erode ambition…” Helian Yunyun waved a hand. “Give them to Marquis Wu’an. Let him take them back to the State of Qi.”

“Ah?” Yuwen Duo looked up, astonished.

Helian Yunyun had already risen from her seat to leave.

What nonsense about decadent sounds eroding ambition? Was Marquis Wu’an’s ambition not afraid of being eroded? Yuwen Duo listened intently, straining to discern some hidden meaning, but only managed to catch a single phrase in the silence: “I also find them pitiable, moreover Zhao Ru Cheng?”

But what about me, Yuwen Duo?

At this moment, listening again to the enchanting yet melancholic melody from the performance room, a sense of sorrow and resentment, a quiet choking grief, arose within him, making him feel particularly sentimental.

“Performance House” was a type of building found throughout the State of Mu, traditionally used for performing the grassland’s unique “Beast Face Play.” It was the most beloved form of leisure for herdsmen after a long day of labor. A pot of mare’s milk wine, a basin of mutton, and a Beast Face Play – such were the days that surpassed those of immortals. For many herdsmen, they could not go without pitching a tent, could not go without building a horse pen, and absolutely could not go without building a Performance House.

This “Beast Face Play” used beasts to symbolize people in its narratives. The performers all wore beast masks, painted with vibrant colors, emphasizing both dance and song. Ballads and stories were equally important. By now, over thirty thousand plays had been developed, ranging from creation myths to tales of romantic affection, with rich and colorful plots.

After the unification of the grasslands, as the horizons of Mu’s nobility broadened, especially among the young who had experienced tours in various countries and enjoyed relatively higher standards of living, many forms of entertainment from other nations were introduced. Performance Houses gradually ceased to be limited to only Beast Face Plays.

Like Yuwen Duo’s troupe of skilled musicians and dancers from the land of Chu, they were but one example, and indeed, one of the finest troupes within the royal court. Which time he summoned them for a performance, was not the stage below filled to the brim, the valley echoing with appreciation? How many True Blood disciples yearned for a glimpse! He hadn’t expected today to be the last time he would appreciate their art…

“I shall escort Your Highness.” Yuwen Duo suppressed his sorrow, rising to respectfully see off Princess Helian Yunyun. Swallowing the bitter pill, enduring the humiliation… Zhao Ru Cheng, you have misled me!

A group of people exited the performance room, only to encounter another group – Great Mu’s Crown Prince, Helian Zhaotu.

As the most renowned Performance House in Eagle City, Ming Luan Performance House was always frequented by high officials and nobles. However, it was rare for both the Prince and Princess to be present simultaneously. The State of Mu was unlike other nations; it did not have a multitude of imperial heirs. The current Empress had only one son and one daughter. The son was named “Zhaotu,” and the daughter “Yunyun.” The position of imperial heir was yet to be decided, but it could only emerge from these two highnesses. Other clan children had no chance whatsoever.

Just as this time’s succession ceremony for the Divine Crown Preaching Great Priest was hosted by Helian Yunyun, Helian Zhaotu had gone to Qiong Lu Mountain earlier to handle another important matter. The Empress had given them both opportunities to distinguish themselves, showing no favoritism.

But truthfully… in recent years, Helian Zhaotu held a clear advantage. Even Yuwen Duo, whose allegiance was clearly defined, had to admit that Helian Zhaotu possessed an outstanding heroic bearing, a grand demeanor, and the appearance of a wise ruler. If the imperial heir were to be decided now, Helian Yunyun’s chances would be less than two tenths.

Of course, until the final moment, everything still held variables. Helian Yunyun had him, Yuwen Duo, much like the Qin Emperor had Wang Xixu – it was like a tiger gaining wings, a great cause within reach. Add to that a Zhao Ru Cheng, and it was like the grassland’s fierce tiger, a formidable force – what need was there to worry about not ultimately prevailing?

This succession ceremony for the Divine Crown Preaching Great Priest was a test for Helian Yunyun. She had to ensure the ceremony was smooth and magnificent, and also demonstrate her performance in interacting with envoys from various countries, her grasp of international relations… Thus far, Helian Yunyun had done very well.

“Yunyun, why are you in such a hurry?” The brother and sister met, and it was Helian Zhaotu who spoke first.

This prince was tall and handsome, with a dignified presence and an innate noble bearing. His tone towards his imperial sister was exceptionally gentle.

Helian Yunyun glanced at the small, elderly figure of Huang Budong beside Helian Zhaotu, a smile playing on her lips. “Does Mister Huang have an interest in Beast Face Plays?”

Anyone looking at Huang Budong, who appeared to be a flickering candle in the wind, would find it hard to believe he was just over three thousand years old. It was said that when he attended the Yellow River Meeting last year, True Monarch Yuxi had specifically verified his age, demonstrating how deceptive his appearance was from birth. He spoke with seemingly little energy, yet his demeanor was not poor. He first performed a courtesy, then said, “Mu Country is a powerful nation in the world, possessing a long history and brilliant civilization. Although this humble one holds the position of envoy, attending to official matters, in private, I have long yearned for the scenery of the grassland and inevitably wish to see more.”

Helian Yunyun first instructed her attendants, “Go and summon my Yuan Hua Ling troupe. Tell them to prepare diligently. They will perform for Mister Huang shortly.” Guards immediately acknowledged the command and departed.

Only then did she continue speaking to Huang Budong, “It is truly Yunyun’s lack of consideration for not resolving Mister’s heart’s desire. But with my imperial brother accompanying you, I believe it will satisfy you. This Yuan Hua Ling troupe is the best in the royal court. Whatever Mister wishes to see, whatever you wish to hear, please feel free to request it. It is my only hope that the harmonious aspirations of Great Mu and the world can be made known to your esteemed country.”

The person hosting this grand ceremony was her, Helian Yunyun. Yet, Huang Budong, as the Qin envoy, had come to see the Beast Face Play with Helian Zhaotu. The implication of this was worth contemplating. However, Helian Yunyun’s speech showed no sign of concern, displaying great poise and dignity, truly demonstrating a regal bearing.

“Naturally.” Huang Budong smiled. “This humble one has seen both Highness Zhaotu, of imperial lineage, and Highness Yunyun, so grand and insightful. Coming to the grassland this time has been smooth in every respect, truly like bathing in a spring breeze.”

Helian Zhaotu did not interrupt their exchange until this moment, when he finally smiled. “Then Mister Huang might wish to stay a few more days. The grassland may not only have spring breezes.”

“And spring carriages,” Yuwen Duo interjected abruptly. The atmosphere instantly turned cold. His words were awkwardly placed.

Helian Yunyun glared at him, then turned to Helian Zhaotu and said, “I have been busy with matters in the royal court recently and have only just managed to find time for leisure. However, Imperial Brother, why have you returned from Qiong Lu Mountain so quickly?”

Helian Zhaotu smiled, using Helian Yunyun’s previous words in reply. “The song and dance have finished. What need is there to linger?”

The two groups exchanged a few more pleasantries with smiles, then politely parted ways.

Outside the Ming Luan Performance House, Helian Yunyun lightly reprimanded Yuwen Duo, “Can you not think of anything else?”

Yuwen Duo grumbled, “That old fellow’s words were full of barbs; he’s not a good person.” Huang Budong had described Helian Zhaotu as “of imperial lineage,” while Helian Yunyun was merely “grand and insightful.” “Grand and insightful” was of course a good phrase, suitable for describing a noble lady, but not suitable for describing an imperial heir vying for the throne. The fellow had all but suggested that Helian Yunyun should stay indoors and embroider, awaiting marriage in her boudoir. Yuwen Duo naturally felt indignant.

Helian Yunyun, however, said only in a low voice, “He just appears old, he is not truly old… Let’s go back.” Thereupon, she stepped into her sedan chair.

She knew, of course, why Huang Budong would adopt such an obviously biased attitude. But she didn’t care. Just like her great mother, who had said when giving her her name, “In this world, there are all sorts of things… Let him say what he will.” Whose evaluation could define her, Helian Yunyun?

Watching Helian Yunyun’s sedan chair depart, Yuwen Duo’s eyebrows and eyes drooped. He was already worrying about how to send that troupe of singing girls away and how to make Jiang Wang accept them. Despite the heartache, he had absolutely no intention of guiding Jiang Wang to refuse. Since Helian Yunyun had spoken, intending for him to send the people, then he must send them.

But that fellow Jiang Wang was a cultivation fanatic, more so than Zhao Ru Cheng. Since arriving in the grassland so many days ago, apart from that first day when he was taken on a trip to the Heaven Mirror, he had been in secluded cultivation within the Min He Temple. An envoy, leaving his country’s borders and coming to a foreign land, was actually not engaging in diplomacy. Compared to this, refusing banquets and declining the opportunity to enter the God’s Grace Temple was not so surprising. How could such a person, wholeheartedly devoted to the Dao, agree to accept a troupe of singing girls? One person for each set of secret techniques?

Yuwen Duo returned to the Ming Luan Performance House, his heart filled with worry, and was about to go find his singing and dancing performers. Suddenly, outside one of the luxurious performance rooms, he saw Helian Zhaotu instructing his subordinates about something. Standing guard at the door were several dismounted Wang Zhang cavalry. Huang Budong was not present; he must have already entered the performance room.

Thinking about the Yuan Hua Ling troupe having to perform for that old fellow later, he felt a surge of anger. If not for…

Helian Zhaotu also saw him and smiled and nodded at him before turning and walking into the performance room. Yuwen Duo maintained courtesy and watched the imperial prince depart. But as he looked at Helian Zhaotu’s back, a description suddenly came to mind: “That person has a very grand appearance, his eyebrows and eyes are clear, he is tall and handsome. He is about your height. He is a bit thinner than you.”

“Brother Jiang! Brother Jiang!” Yuwen Duo excitedly ran into the Min He Temple, his braided hair bouncing up and down.

Within the compound where the Qi envoy resided, two hundred Tianfu Army soldiers were practicing their saber skills. Regarding this sort of envoy mission, generally after arriving at their destination, apart from necessary defense personnel, the others would take turns relaxing and seeing the foreign scenery. This was also the convention. Jiang Wang, however, did not restrict them and allowed them to act freely. It was just that with Marquis Wu’an himself diligently cultivating without cease, it was truly unbecoming for these followers to slack off. In short, under Qiao Lin’s leadership, the Tianfu Army’s habit of one practice session per day had changed to three… Since they were willing to put in the effort, Jiang Wang was also not stingy with his guidance, often observing and occasionally stepping forward to teach a few moves.

Engaging in combat in another’s territory was not ideal, so they practiced silent saber techniques. Not only did they not make any sound themselves, but they also controlled the strength of their saber swings, ensuring that when the war saber cut through the air, there was no sharp whistling sound. This kind of saber technique was the most lethal in killing.

“What’s the matter, Brother Yuwen, in such a hurry?” Jiang Wang’s room door was opened in a timely manner. Yuwen Duo withdrew his gaze and looked at Jiang Wang, his tone joyful. “I know who that person who asked about your identity was when you first arrived in the royal court!”

Jiang Wang gestured for him to enter the room, then said, “Is it one of your relatives?”

“You have to promise me one thing first, then I can tell you,” Yuwen Duo said mysteriously.

Jiang Wang glanced at him. “Seeing you so secretive, that person is definitely not from the Yuwen family.”

“Hahaha, don’t guess!” Yuwen Duo said, “You quickly promise me first. I guarantee it won’t be something that puts you at a disadvantage.”

“That person’s identity is not ordinary, otherwise you wouldn’t be so excited. That person has an understanding of you, of Zhao Ru Cheng, and of me, which shows that their master has incredibly keen intelligence. That person should not truly be a Wang Zhang cavalry soldier, otherwise you wouldn’t be so confident, because you definitely couldn’t find them if they were truly in the Wang Zhang cavalry. He casually used you as a shield, and you were not angry, which indicates his status is only higher than yours.”

Marquis Jiang leisurely analyzed the situation. “Then the problem arises, you Yuwen Duo are already a True Blood descendant of the Yuwen clan. Among all the young people in Mu Country, how many have a status similar to yours? And whose status is only higher than yours? This person also has connections within the Wang Zhang cavalry, and was even guarding the highest royal court during the Battle of Liyuan City…” He smiled. “The person I met that day, could it be His Highness, the Imperial Prince of Mu Country?”

Yuwen Duo was stunned.

Just from his mysterious tone, he could infer so much? This seriously did not match his understanding of Great Qi’s Marquis Wu’an! You said we would all be rough and unrefined together, how did you secretly become so intelligent?

Facing Yuwen Duo’s silence, Jiang Wang simply finished a bowl of ghee tea and said lightly, “It seems I guessed correctly.” This ordinary matter fell on his ears without causing a stir. He fully displayed the demeanor of a wise man.

“Marquis!” Qiao Lin just happened to walk to the door at this moment and reported loudly, “The horse sent by the Mu Country’s Imperial Prince has been personally groomed clean by your subordinate! Do you want to go out for a ride now?”