Chapter 425: Entering the Prefectural City
Two figures drifted through the air above the ancient road, both possessing striking features with sharp, sword-like eyebrows and bright, starry eyes. One wore azure robes cinched at the waist, while the other was clad in white robes and a feathered crown.
Xu Sanyan glanced at the jade-adorned crown atop Shan Qiuyu’s head, finding it both ostentatious and strangely dignified.
After hearing his father’s words, Shan Qiuyu had deliberately changed into more formal attire to appear more proper and show his respect for Xu Sanyan.
As they traveled, the two engaged in casual conversation. Xu Sanyan learned much about the Prefectural City from Shan Qiuyu.
Because Shan Zhoushan and Shan Qiuyu viewed matters from different perspectives, Shan Zhoushan had only provided a general overview, while Shan Qiuyu offered detailed explanations. This gave Xu Sanyan a more thorough understanding of the city.
In just a day, they arrived at the outskirts of the Prefectural City. Xu Sanyan gazed down at the sprawling ancient metropolis, which resembled a giant beast lying prone, its jaws agape as if ready to devour the land. The sight was truly awe-inspiring.
Within the city walls, countless citizens bustled about like ants, their tireless activity forming a magnificent tableau.
“Junior Brother, we must enter the city on foot,” Shan Qiuyu cautioned. “Flying is strictly forbidden within the walls, as is any act of violence. The laws here are absolute, and the Grand Temple of Eternal Harmony shows no mercy.”
“Very well, Senior Brother, please lead the way.”
“After you.”
The two stepped through the city gate, one after the other. Xu Sanyan gazed at the majestic city walls, his gaze lingering on their towering height.
The walls were over a hundred feet thick, constructed from massive bluestone blocks. Xu Sanyan’s eyes lit up slightly as he noticed a faint, shimmering aura barely visible to the naked eye.
A formation!
The Prefectural City was indeed protected by a formation, requiring him to adjust his plans accordingly.
Inside the city, shops lined both sides of the main street, where mortals and cultivators coexisted peacefully, each respecting the other’s space in harmonious coexistence.
Shan Qiuyu explained the city’s layout to Xu Sanyan. “Junior Brother, if you need to purchase magical artifacts or medicinal pills, the Spirit Treasure Hall is the official government store. Their prices are fair, and the quality is guaranteed.”
“Mm, thank you, Senior Brother.”
“Brother Shan, over here!”
A clear, crisp voice called out from the side. The two paused and looked through the crowd to see a young girl bouncing toward them, her lively spirit evident in every step. Stray strands of hair framed her face, adding to her playful charm.
Xu Sanyan raised an eyebrow, his heart stirred. What a beautiful young lady, he thought, perfectly suited to my tastes.
Shan Qiuyu smiled warmly, a hint of fondness in his expression, as he introduced her to Xu Sanyan. “This is Qin Shutong, the youngest daughter of the associate magistrate. She’s been close to me since childhood. Actually, she’s somewhat related to you, Junior Brother—Senior Brother Yu is her brother-in-law.”
“Oh?” Xu Sanyan murmured, slightly surprised. Shan Qiuyu had explained the situation on the way here, and Xu Sanyan knew he was here to help the Qin Family set up an array. He hadn’t expected to encounter them so soon after entering the city.
So, Yu Huisheng’s wife is this girl’s elder sister?
But they share the same mother. Why do they look so different? It’s like night and day.
Wait… they might not share the same mother, but they definitely share the same father.
Xu Sanyan’s thoughts shifted. Actually, even the father part is still up for debate…
“Brother Shan, you’re back!” Qin Shutong chirped, tugging on Shan Qiuyu’s sleeve. Her large, bright eyes blinked as she stared at Xu Sanyan with intense curiosity.
Shan Qiuyu introduced them. “This is my junior brother, Liang Yongzhuo. And this is my little sister, Qin Shutong.”
“Greetings, Brother Liang,” Xu Sanyan said.
“Greetings to you as well, Brother Yu,” Shan Qiuyu replied.
The two men exchanged formal bows. In truth, Xu Sanyan might not have been much older than Qin Shutong, who looked to be in her early twenties.
“Let’s go. Your accommodations have been arranged. I’ll take you to see them first. If they’re not suitable, we can find something else.”
Qin Shutong’s eyes darted around before she tugged on Shan Qiuyu’s sleeve. “Brother Shan, I have an empty room in the Jade Spring District. If Brother Liang doesn’t mind, he could stay there.”
Shan Qiuyu nodded. “That sounds good. It’s more spacious there. What do you think, Junior Brother?”
Xu Sanyan clasped his hands in a respectful bow. “I’ll defer to Senior Brother’s judgment.”
“Alright, let’s go take a look then.”
Qin Shutong felt a surge of triumph. She had come with a mission, timing her arrival at the city gate perfectly to intercept them.
Yesterday, Shan Zhoushan had visited her home, discussing matters with her father at length before leaving. Afterward, her father had instructed her to cultivate a good relationship with this man, leading to today’s “chance” encounter.
Otherwise, in such a vast Prefectural City, what were the odds of running into them the moment they returned?
Qin Shutong was particularly curious about Xu Sanyan. She wanted to see what kind of young prodigy could reach the Peak Stage of Soul Refinement at such a young age, and who was also a Grand Formation Master. This combination of achievements made him even more enigmatic.
Moreover, she had heard that he was upright and virtuous, having spent considerable time and effort setting up formations for Zhangzhi City without accepting a single coin—a true paragon of the righteous path.
Her curiosity grew, and she found herself instinctively wanting to uncover the secrets hidden within him.
The trio arrived at a spacious courtyard residence. Qin Shutong pushed open the gate and glanced around. This was actually her first time here as well; the courtyard had just been acquired specifically for Xu Sanyan.
“This is it,” Qin Shutong said, her voice tinged with anticipation. “Does Senior Brother like it?”
Xu Sanyan clasped his hands in thanks. “This place is lovely. Thank you, Miss.”
“Just call me Shutong,” she replied. “Brother Shan and the others do.”
“Alright, thank you, Shutong.”
Xu Sanyan smiled slightly, his expression radiating warmth. Qin Shutong gazed at his profile, her cheeks suddenly flushing crimson as she quickly lowered her head, lost in thought.
She knew her father’s intentions: arranging this meeting to bring them together. If they got along…
That’s why she had rushed here so eagerly to meet him. Now, at least, she found him far from unpleasant…
Xu Sanyan glanced at her and immediately understood her thoughts. This young girl wore her heart on her sleeve, making her intentions painfully obvious.
Fully aware of his own charm, Xu Sanyan knew that a little pretense and aloofness would be as devastating to these young girls as a celestial technique.
Being handsome and talented made charming women effortless.
Shan Qiuyu glanced around, suddenly feeling like he was intruding. He pursed his lips in resignation and said, “Shutong, please take care of Junior Brother Liang for me. I need to return home to report.”
Qin Shutong’s heart leaped with joy. This was exactly what she wanted. She quickly replied, “Brother Shan, don’t worry. I’ll take excellent care of Brother Liang.”
She couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity to spend more time alone with him.
In just a few moments, Qin Shutong’s address for Xu Sanyan had shifted from “Senior Brother” to “Brother” and finally to “Brother Liang.”
After Shan Qiuyu left, Qin Shutong led Xu Sanyan around the courtyard, chatting casually. “Brother Liang, will you be free the day after tomorrow?”
Xu Sanyan pondered for a moment. “I should be.”
Qin Shutong’s face lit up. “That’s wonderful! The Prefectural Examination will be held in Qian Prefecture the day after tomorrow. If you’re free, you should come watch.”
Xu Sanyan saw through her intentions and smiled knowingly. “Are you taking the exam too, Shutong?”
“Heh heh…”
(End of the Chapter)