Chapter Twenty: The Ancient City of Azure—An Encounter with an Old Friend

Indeed, the mortal world possesses a liveliness absent from the Nether Realm. Gazing across the lake, the lotus flowers bloom in radiant beauty, their petals like sculpted jade cradling tender green buds, reminiscent of a young maiden carefully holding a priceless emerald in her delicate hands. The broad lotus leaves, adorned with sparkling droplets of water, glisten brilliantly under the sunlight. A few koi swim beneath the leaves, chasing and playing, darting after one another, occasionally releasing strings of bubbles that ripple the lake’s surface, creating circles of beautiful waves that spread outward. The scene was truly enchanting.

Mesmerized by this rare beauty, Yu Shang and Xiao Yin stopped to savor the view, completely entranced. Yet their tranquil appreciation was abruptly disturbed by two passing cultivators.

One of them remarked, “Have you heard? The gate to that mysterious region in Ancient Biluo City is about to be forcibly opened, gathering the essence of heaven and earth and the power of several elders.”

“Yes, and they've set up a stage in the city, inviting strong contenders from all over to compete. The top new talents will have the chance to explore that mysterious region alongside them!” the other replied, excitement clear in his voice.

“It seems you’re quite interested in this—could it be you’ve come for this very reason?” asked the first.

“And you haven’t? Hahaha.” With that, the two continued on their way, laughing.

After the pair had left, Yu Shang turned to Xiao Yin with a smile. “How about we join in the excitement?”

“How could we miss out on something so intriguing?” Xiao Yin replied, matching his smile.

After searching for some time, the two finally found the “Ancient Biluo City” that those passersby had mentioned—and it was truly magnificent! Even the smallest homes boasted glazed tile roofs and walls of multicolored brick, while the mansions of the wealthy were nothing short of palatial. The streets bustled with unparalleled liveliness.

Yet amidst this uniform grandeur, there was a building that stood apart. Its white city walls exuded a fresh, elegant air; pale yellow roof tiles hinted at noble refinement; the vermilion doors revealed its stately presence. Though the building appeared ordinary, within this opulent city it drew all eyes, especially the graceful script on its signboard, which seemed otherworldly.

“Yanlan Academy? How interesting,” Yu Shang murmured as he gazed at the sign.

“My goodness, even the roads in this little market are paved with marble! This place rivals the inner chambers of a palace!” Xiao Yin exclaimed in surprise. Regaining his composure, he added, “If I hadn’t been clever and gathered some pearls from the lake to exchange for silver, we might have ended up sleeping on the streets!”

Yu Shang, faced with Xiao Yin’s triumphant look, could only respond with resignation, “Yes, yes! You’re the most farsighted of us all. I couldn’t survive without you.”

Before Xiao Yin could retort, his stomach rumbled audibly. Embarrassed, he lowered his head and rubbed his flat belly. Yu Shang couldn’t help but laugh at his adorable display, then took him into an inn.

No sooner had they seated themselves upstairs than they overheard a group discussing openly, “Do you all know the true purpose of the mysterious region in Ancient Biluo City? What’s hidden inside?”

“I’ve heard it was left behind after the battle between immortals and the Nether, a burial ground for powerful warriors who perished—and, of course, their sacred relics!”

“Don’t speak carelessly if you don’t know. It’s said that what’s buried there is the wife of Fu Youming, who once reigned in the Nether Realm but vanished after the great war!”

“Whoever is buried there, the treasures must be genuine! Rumor has it there’s a scroll with earth-shattering secrets. Otherwise, why would those old fellows from Yanlan Academy risk their lives to enter?” a man dressed in white said mysteriously.

Xiao Yin, who had been listening for quite some time, couldn’t resist his curiosity. He sent a secret message to Yu Shang, “What do you think is really in there? They even mentioned that old fox Fu Youming, and that scroll sounds formidable!”

“What use is it to speculate endlessly? Wouldn’t it be simpler to go in and see for ourselves?” Yu Shang replied carelessly.

“Yes, going in would solve everything!” As Xiao Yin and Yu Shang exchanged secret messages, a third voice suddenly interrupted.

Both immediately grew alert, scanning their surroundings—only to discover several familiar faces.

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“It’s really you! I’m not mistaken, am I?” Xiao Yin exclaimed in surprise.

“Go on and laugh; you’re not blind yet!” Yu Xiaoran teased, then sat beside Yu Shang, gazing at him with such intensity that Yu Shang felt uneasy.

“What are you plotting now? Stop looking at me with those strange eyes!” Yu Shang coldly warned, instinctively shifting away to keep his distance.

“How could I dare? Wasn’t your last lesson enough for me?” Yu Xiaoran replied with a mischievous grin.

Meanwhile, Xiao Yin clung to Lan Wu, startling her and leaving her at a loss. Unable to bear the scene, Yan Xue Su pulled the frightened Lan Wu behind her, admonishing Xiao Yin, “Men and women should keep their distance, no matter how much you fancy my sister, you shouldn’t be so rude!” With that, she led Lan Wu over to sit beside Leng Huai Yi. Left with nothing else to do, Xiao Yin sat quietly but kept his gaze locked on Lan Wu.

“How did you all end up here?” Yu Shang asked with curiosity.

“You must have heard the rumors about the king’s past and the mysterious region within this city. The king sent us to investigate the truth and to gain some experience in the mortal world,” Leng Huai Yi explained calmly.

“Not welcoming us, are you? Or are you afraid you’ll lose face if we defeat you in the upcoming competition?” Yan Xue Su teased, her laughter drawing the attention of everyone nearby.

“Such ordinary mortals—see a beautiful woman and they lose their souls, their eyes practically falling out!” Lan Wu sneered at those who stared at her and Yan Xue Su with undisguised, heated glances.

“This world has no real heroes or warriors. Why complain about these kittens and puppies? Are you hoping to find a worthy husband here?” Yu Xiaoran mocked the gawkers while teasing Lan Wu.

“They may not be heroes, but what about me? Am I to your liking?” Xiao Yin seized the opportunity to flirt with Lan Wu.

“Hmph! You’d best abandon that ridiculous idea. Don’t harbor any improper intentions toward me,” Lan Wu refused coldly, though her expression betrayed a hint of fear.

“No matter, time will tell! Maybe you’ll grow fond of me after spending more time together!” Xiao Yin persisted, unfazed by her coldness, and Lan Wu responded with a glare, saying no more.

“I’m almost envious—someone is so devoted to my sister. Don’t let a moment’s anger cause you to miss such a good match!” Yan Xue Su chimed in, egging her on.

“Enough, don’t say another word or I’ll really get angry!” Lan Wu, embarrassed by their teasing, raised her voice to stop them.

“All right, all right. We’ll stop—just playful banter, no need to take it seriously!” Leng Huai Yi soothed her with a gentle smile.

All the while, a man seated in the corner watched Yu Shang and the others, deep in thought. After a long silence, he instructed his attendant, “Find out everything you can about them.” The attendant departed immediately.

“Looks like someone is very interested in us—can’t wait to learn all about us,” Yu Shang remarked after glancing at the man in the corner, then turned back to the group.

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“Maybe he’s fallen for our two stunning beauties! You two really are irresistible,” Yu Xiaoran joked, completely unconcerned.

“You’re always so unruly!” Yan Xue Su gently scolded.

“Exactly—one day I’ll straighten out that unruly mouth of yours!” Lan Wu threatened, shaking her fist at Yu Xiaoran.

“You’re not his wife, so why worry about controlling him? Is it because of him that you turned me down?” Xiao Yin feigned jealousy.

“You…hmph!” Lan Wu started to retort but, seeing it was Xiao Yin, fell silent.

“We’d best be careful. Whether friend or foe, we don’t yet know,” Leng Huai Yi said, ignoring the playful banter and frowning.

“Yes, let’s heed Brother Leng’s advice. So many people harbor ill intent—don’t let carelessness lead us into a trap, lest we suffer needlessly!” Yu Shang urged sincerely.

“Sister Xue Su, let’s go explore outside! It’s such a rare chance—wouldn’t it be a shame not to see what’s out there?” Lan Wu pleaded, clinging to Yan Xue Su’s arm.

Yan Xue Su looked troubled, glancing at Leng Huai Yi and Yu Xiaoran, both unsure what to do. They knew Lan Wu too well—keeping her cooped up in the inn was impossible. At any moment, she might sneak out, which would be even more dangerous. If she went out, her temper might cause trouble; after all, they were in the mortal world, not their own domain. Though it looked peaceful, dangers lurked beneath the surface. If anything happened, it would be hard to resolve. Their identities were special, and if discovered, would surely cause a great uproar. What to do? The three were caught in a dilemma.

“Let’s go out for a walk, kid! Staying in the inn all day is stifling,” Xiao Yin, sensing their concerns, offered to accompany Lan Wu and keep an eye on her, knowing his presence could deter her mischief.

“Why don’t we all go? As Lan Wu said, it’d be a shame not to explore while we’re here,” Yu Shang suggested, seeing through both their worries and Xiao Yin’s intentions.

“Yes, come with me!” Lan Wu, hearing someone speak up for her, immediately put on a pitiful expression and pleaded with the three.

“Fine, we’ll go with you. But let’s agree on three rules: you can go out, but don’t cause trouble—or I’ll discipline you on the king’s behalf!” Leng Huai Yi said sternly.

“I know! With you watching, how could I dare cause trouble? Hehe!” With that, she dragged Yan Xue Su outside. The others rose to follow. The man in the corner also followed closely behind.

“That fellow is persistent. Shall I teach him a lesson?” Yu Xiaoran grinned mischievously, watching the stranger.

“You just finished lecturing Lan Wu, and now you’re acting out yourself. Let him follow—let’s see what tricks he can manage,” Leng Huai Yi said quietly.

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