Chapter 629: Ning Que (Two-in-One)
The Sixth Prince, Emperor Wuming, was one of the most powerful individuals among the younger generation of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty.
The poem he recited was adorned with magnificent words and possessed a majestic aura. He compared the bright moon to a pearl on an emperor's crown, and every line exuded an overbearing arrogance of self-supremacy.
Frankly speaking, this poem indeed surpassed Zhang Zhiwen's by a notch in terms of rhythm and grandeur.
However, whether it was truly his own work remained to be debated.
The hall was silent; no one dared to easily comment on the Prince's poem. Although these nobles usually enjoyed immense prestige, they still had to tread carefully in front of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty's imperial family.
Zhang Zhiwen's face alternated between green and pale, his lips quivering a few times. In the end, he didn't dare to speak again, sullenly sitting back down, his heart filled with humiliation and resentment.
Who in the capital didn't know Emperor Wuming's reputation as a profligate? Everyone knew this poem was definitely not his work, yet no one dared to speak out.
Moon Pity Star's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly.
Although Emperor Wuming's poem was well-structured and of high caliber, every line conveyed a condescending attitude, lacking any sense of freedom or naturalness, which was completely at odds with the artistic conception she pursued.
But... her gaze swept over the guests. Even Zhang Zhiwen could only sit grim-faced in his seat, and none of the other talented scholars dared to step forward.
In this Eternal Imperial Capital, even Chunxiang Tower could not openly offend imperial family members.
Moon Pity Star sighed softly in her heart, thinking that she could only temporarily agree and then make other plans later.
She possessed a secret technique that could make one's consciousness hazy and perception of external objects chaotic.
Thus, she might be able to muddle through.
"Haha, since everyone has no objections, why doesn't Miss Yue make preparations soon?"
"Wuming can't wait to spend the spring night with you, Miss."
His face was filled with greed and possessive desire, his gaze burning as if he wanted to devour Moon Pity Star alive.
This blatant attitude made Moon Pity Star feel extreme disgust.
Just as her crimson lips parted, ready to reluctantly accept this nauseating invitation—
"Wait!"
A clear and firm voice, like the clash of metal and stone, suddenly rang out, breaking the suffocating silence.
Everyone looked over in astonishment, only to see a scholar in a faded blue robe standing up in an inconspicuous corner of the main hall.
His stature was not tall, nor was his face exceptionally handsome, but there was an indescribable aura of righteous integrity between his brows. His eyes were clear and bright, and at this moment, he fearlessly met the gaze of the smug Emperor Wuming on the stage.
"He's here."
Gu Yun's eyes lit up, his gaze falling upon this person.
Emperor Wuming's appearance perfectly embodied the villainous archetype. Gu Yun was almost certain that this poetry gathering would definitely have one of his fellow transmigrators come out to disrupt things.
As expected, Xi Tong's sweet, soft voice rang out—
[Ding! Detected a new Child of Destiny]
[Name: Ning Que]
[Cultivation: Early Dao Body Realm]
[Identity: Male Protagonist of "Sage of Literature Supreme"]
[Physique: Literary Heart Saint Body]
[Halo: Child of Destiny Halo (Orange)]
[destiny value: 40000]
[Associated Heroines: Shen Jingshu, Lu Mingwei, Moon Pity Star]
"He's indeed a Child of Destiny with a plagiarist nature, but isn't this destiny value a bit low?"
A mere forty thousand destiny value was a drop in the bucket for the current deficit in Gu Yun's Great Luo Dao Pagoda.
[However, for Host, dealing with him should be a trivial matter.]
Xi Tong's mischievous voice rang out. As the saying goes, 'one is influenced by one's company.' Having been by Gu Yun's side for so long, the originally sweet and soft little system had also picked up some bad habits.
"That is indeed true."
As early as the beginning of his transmigration, Gu Yun had already prepared for today's situation.
Those commonly used ancient poems were all recorded by him and preserved in the Supreme Divine Dynasty's Imperial Palace, published and distributed by the Supreme Divine Dynasty's imperial family.
Although the time was still short, it had already gained some recognition.
And this Ning Que still wanted to walk this path again, which could only lead to one outcome: utter ruin.
"How long can you last?"
"Don't disappoint me too much."
Coming to the Eternal Imperial Capital was originally to add a few more blows to Liu Feng. Now with an extra side dish, Gu Yun's interest had increased considerably.
In the hall, Ning Que's sudden utterance instantly drew everyone's attention.
"Who is this person? How dare he speak up at this moment?"
"He looks very unfamiliar, not like a native of the capital. Perhaps he's a scholar from out of town who doesn't understand the rules?"
"He truly doesn't know the immensity of heaven and earth, daring to provoke the Sixth Prince. He's probably going to suffer greatly!"
Whispers instantly surged like a tide, mostly carrying surprise, mockery, and a hint of excitement at watching a good show.
Zhang Zhiwen silently glanced at Ning Que, a cold sneer forming on his lips: "An arrogant fool. Does he really think this poetry gathering is for selecting the top scholar?"
Emperor Wuming's good mood was interrupted, and his face instantly darkened to the point where water could drip from it.
He squinted at the ignorant scholar in blue below the stage and said coldly, "Where did this impoverished pedant come from? How dare you spout nonsense here? You've ruined this Prince's mood; can you bear the consequences?!"
The pressure of the late Dao Body Realm bore down on Ning Que, but he merely swayed slightly before steadying himself.
His back was ramrod straight, like a green pine standing proudly against the wind. His eyes were clear and firm, meeting Emperor Wuming's oppressive gaze without flinching.
A flicker of surprise appeared in Moon Pity Star's beautiful eyes. She gently waved her hand, and all the pressure in the hall dissipated.
"The Sixth Prince is being too overbearing. This poetry gathering is hosted by Pity Star, naturally hoping that all talented scholars can speak freely and display their talents."
"Since this young master has something to say, why not let him finish?"
Seeing Moon Pity Star speak, Emperor Wuming suppressed his anger and snorted coldly: "Good! This Prince wants to see what kind of timeless masterpiece you, a poor scholar, can produce!"
For this poetry gathering, he had specially invited three literary masters to meticulously craft his work, which resulted in this piece. How could an impoverished scholar from who-knows-where possibly surpass it?!
Emperor Wuming had absolute confidence. His previous anger was merely dissatisfaction that his authority had been challenged.
Facing the mocking gazes of the entire hall, Ning Que's expression remained calm.
He did not immediately compose a poem but instead bowed solemnly towards Moon Pity Star.
At the same time, he revealed a smile that he believed was as refreshing as a spring breeze. The fact that Moon Pity Star was willing to speak up for him must have been due to her admiration for his integrity in not fearing power.
While feeling a bit smug, Ning Que spoke loudly, "What Emperor Wuming presented is merely a crude work; how can it be worthy of Miss Pity Star's peerless grace?"
Upon hearing this, the entire hall erupted in an uproar!
This was no longer just a question; it was blatant disparagement and provocation.
Emperor Wuming's face instantly darkened: "What an arrogant fellow, boasting shamelessly."
"If this Prince's poem is a crude work, then you present a world-shaking masterpiece to open everyone's eyes. Otherwise, don't blame this Prince for punishing you with the crime of great disrespect!!"
The atmosphere in the hall instantly became extremely tense. Everyone held their breath, watching the scholar in blue, wondering how he would resolve the situation.
Moon Pity Star also frowned slightly, finding the scholar's words too arrogant, yet a faint sense of anticipation secretly arose in her heart.
Gu Yun's gaze was calm. He could predict the upcoming plot with his toes. Among poems related to the moon, the most famous was undoubtedly "Prelude to Water Tune."
As expected, Ning Que took a deep breath, as if condensing all his lifelong talent and pride. His gaze swept across the hall, finally settling on Moon Pity Star, and with an undeniable confidence, he recited loudly:
"How long will the bright moon be there? I raise my cup and ask the blue sky.
I wonder what year it is tonight in the palaces of heaven.
I wish to ride the wind and return, yet I fear that in the jade towers and crystal pavilions, the height is unbearably cold.
Dancing with my clear shadow, what can compare to being in the human world?"
As the lines were spoken, the magnificent and unrestrained artistic conception poured down like the Milky Way from the nine heavens. The people present were all famous talented scholars of the Eternal Imperial Dynasty, possessing extraordinary appreciation skills, and were instantly captivated by the verses.
The entire Chunxiang Tower fell into a deathly silence!
Everyone's eyes were wide, and their mouths agape, staring in disbelief at the scholar in blue on the stage.
Between heaven and earth, a faint, ethereal Dao rhyme seemed to appear, interweaving with Ning Que.
The Three Thousand Great Daos encompass everything, naturally including the Dao of Literature.
Such a celestial phenomenon appearing naturally indicated that this world recognized Ning Que's work.
Moon Pity Star's delicate body trembled violently, her veiled face fluttering without wind. Her cold eyes suddenly burst forth with unprecedented dazzling light, staring intently at Ning Que!
These lines... this artistic conception... could he... be the person young mistress is looking for?!
Emperor Wuming's expression also changed from initial mockery to shock, and finally to deep anger.
Why? Why could this impoverished scholar from who-knows-where possess such profound literary attainments?!
Enjoying the profound silence and the shocked gazes of the crowd, Ning Que's lips curved into a cold smile. He would let these bumpkins from another world witness what true cultural heritage was!
His heart swelled with heroic pride as he continued to recite the second stanza:
"She turns to the vermilion pavilion, lowers the embroidered window, and shines upon the sleepless.
There should be no regret; why is the moon always full when people part?
People have joys and sorrows, partings and reunions; the moon has its waxing and waning, its cloudy and clear days. This has been difficult to perfect since ancient times.
May we all live long, and share the beauty of the moon, though a thousand miles apart."
As the words fell, heaven and earth were silent.
Everyone was immersed in the exquisite artistic conception of this poem, and several talented scholars even achieved enlightenment, beginning to cultivate on the spot!
Soon, thunderous applause erupted, and exclamations echoed through the sky.
"Heavens! This poem should only exist in the heavens!"
"A divine work! This is a truly divine work!"
"I... I simply cannot describe it with words!"
"Ning Que! This young man possesses the potential of a Sage of Literature!"
Zhang Zhiwen's face was ashen, and he slumped in his chair, muttering, "Impossible... how can this be possible..."
This Ning Que appeared to be of similar age to him, yet his literary attainments were already comparable to a grandmaster!
Emperor Wuming's face could no longer be described as livid; it was completely twisted and ferocious.
He clenched his fists tightly, his fingernails digging deep into his palms, his gaze towards Ning Que filled with insane jealousy and murderous intent!
Moon Pity Star stared blankly at Ning Que, and after a long while, she softly spoke, "Young Master Ning's work is truly astonishing, Pity Star... is impressed. If there are no other excellent works at this poetry gathering, Young Master Ning's 'Prelude to Water Tune' shall be deemed the best. Do any of you talented scholars have any objections?"
She looked around, and silence reigned.
At this moment, in everyone's eyes, the winner and loser were clearly decided, the superiority immediately apparent.
Whether it was Zhang Zhiwen or Emperor Wuming, their poems were like dust on the ground, insignificant and uninteresting.
Ning Que felt immensely pleased in his heart, yet maintained a reserved and composed expression. He returned a bow to Moon Pity Star, his voice gentle and with a hint of perfectly appropriate excitement: "Miss Pity Star, you flatter me."
"This student has been away from home for a long time, and it is a festive occasion. I was moved and happened to compose this. It is this student's good fortune to gain Miss's favor."
Moon Pity Star nodded slightly, her cold voice carrying a subtle, imperceptible tremor: "Young Master Ning is immensely talented; Pity Star is truly impressed."
"May I ask if Young Master would be willing to move to the inner chambers? Pity Star would like to offer tea and seek your guidance in person?"
This was a clear invitation!
Countless envious, jealous, and fervent gazes focused on Ning Que.
A humble scholar actually managed to overpower all the talents, including the immensely powerful Sixth Prince, and win the favor of the courtesan queen. This was a story that would only appear in novels.
Chu Ruoyao watched this grand spectacle with little interest: "What, your courtesan queen is about to be snatched away, and you're still not making a move?"
She looked at Gu Yun. Spending so many spirit stones just to watch others show off?
She really didn't know what this guy was after!
She tossed the spirit fruit high into the air, caught it with her mouth, and looked again, but Gu Yun was already gone.
In the hall.
Ning Que was already ecstatic in his heart, but on his face, he tried to maintain composure: "Thank you for the invitation, Miss Pity Star, then I shall..."
"Heh heh."
A soft chuckle, like a stone dropped into a calm lake, once again broke the atmosphere in the hall.
Everyone's gaze once again collectively turned towards the VIP box on the second floor, labeled 'Heavenly Character Number One'.
Only then did they notice that the person who should have been the most distinguished guest at this poetry gathering had remained silent until now.
What was he going to do now?!
"Who exactly are you?"
Emperor Wuming's eyes narrowed slightly. The power behind Chunxiang Tower was extraordinary; even he couldn't act recklessly.
However, losing to an impoverished scholar was truly humiliating. If this person could severely slap Ning Que's face, he would feel much better.
Zhang Zhiwen and the other talented scholars also cast their gazes over, wanting to see who dared to speak up at this moment, after such a world-shaking masterpiece had been created.
Gu Yun slowly walked to the edge of the private room, and the crystal bead curtain automatically parted to reveal his ordinary yet exceptionally distinguished face.
His gaze calmly swept over Ning Que, whose expression had slightly changed, finally resting on Moon Pity Star, a faint, unreadable smile playing on his lips.
"This young master, do you perhaps have a better poem to offer for guidance?"
Moon Pity Star was slightly stunned, taken aback by Gu Yun's appearance. How could there be such a handsome man in the world?
Seeing the favorability increase to sixty points, Gu Yun knew what to do: "'May we all live long, and share the beauty of the moon, though a thousand miles apart.' Indeed, it has a magnificent scope and profound artistic conception; it is a rare and excellent work."
He first praised it a few times, which made Ning Que secretly breathe a sigh of relief. He thought disdainfully, 'This is a great work by Master Dongpo, do I need you to tell me if it's good or not?'
'What are you?!'
Of course, he couldn't show it and instead planned to speak humbly—
"It's just a pity that this poem isn't your work!"
"Ning Que? A talented scholar? Heh, merely a fraud who deceives the world for fame!"
//630//
Chapter 630: Exposed (Two-in-One)
Gu Yun's tone suddenly changed. His voice wasn't loud, but it exploded like thunder, instantly plunging the entire Chunxiang Tower back into dead silence!
Everyone stared at him dumbfounded, then looked at Ning Que, whose face had drastically changed below the stage.
This poem, "Shuidiao Getou," wasn't written by Ning Que?!
Indeed, if they hadn't seen it with their own eyes, who would dare believe such a divine work could come from an obscure scholar from a humble family?
But if it was plagiarism... who else could have written such a masterpiece?
"This person walked out from the Heaven Character Number One Private Room. His status must be extraordinary, so he shouldn't be talking nonsense."
"That's right, I found it strange. If this Ning Que had such talent, he should have become famous long ago. Why is he only just emerging now?"
"And haven't you noticed, his demeanor when composing poetry, rather than being a gushing fountain of ideas, was more like... reciting?"
"Now that you mention it, it does seem a bit odd..."
Questions, like sparks, began to spread through the venue.
Emperor Wuming's lips curled into a cold smile. Since someone had taken the lead, he would stir things up.
Once an uncontrollable situation arose, Chunxiang Tower would still have to rely on him to maintain control.
Moon Pity Star's eyes twitched as she looked at Ning Que.
Ning Que sneered, "How ridiculous. You say this poem isn't mine, but do you have proof?"
"Can you just slander my innocence with empty words?!"
His words were forceful, and combined with his unyielding expression, they immediately made some people feel doubtful again.
Yes, without concrete evidence, how could one easily conclude that he was plagiarizing?
Moon Pity Star spoke at the opportune moment, "This young master, whether Young Master Ning plagiarized or not is still open for discussion. After all, with my knowledge, I've never heard of'Shuidiao Getou' before, and I imagine the scholars present here are the same."
"If it were truly the work of a senior master, such an astonishing piece could not have remained unknown for millions of years."
"Now that it has come from Young Master Ning's mouth and even caused heavenly phenomena, in this servant's humble opinion, it has some credibility."
She had previously heard from Mama Qi, the madam, about the guest in the Heaven Character Number One Private Room. This person was generous and had a mysterious background, so she was told to avoid offending him if possible.
But now, the other party had personally questioned the person her young miss was looking for. At this critical moment, she couldn't worry about too much and could only speak up to protect him.
"Miss Yue, what you say is wrong. If this Young Master Ning truly possesses genuine talent, he must surely have more than just this one masterpiece."
"Now that he is being questioned, why not recite a few more poems to convince everyone?"
Just then, someone, unknown, proposed a rather reasonable solution.
Ning Que's heart first tightened, then surged with wild joy!
Asking him to compose poetry? This was like finding a pillow when sleepy!
His mind held the accumulated essence of five thousand years from his previous life. Let alone a few poems, he could effortlessly produce dozens, even hundreds!
Heh, these bumpkins from another world.
Did they really think such methods could stump him?
How ridiculous!!
His lips curved into a confident sneer. He cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping across the entire venue, and declared proudly, "Very well, since you all have doubts, then I, Ning, shall present a few more humble pieces, so that certain boastful individuals may be shamed into silence!"
"Since the theme was 'moon' just now, I, Ning, shall compose a few more moon-themed poems for your appraisal!"
His tone was natural, as if all of this was effortless.
Gu Yun did not speak. To destroy someone, first make them mad.
The higher one climbs, the harder one falls; he was not in a hurry.
Chu Ruoyao, on the other hand, was slightly gloating, "I thought you had some ability, but now that he's about to compose poetry, if he succeeds, how will our Prince Gu Yun save face?"
"Xiao Yao, what you're saying now doesn't quite fit your persona."
"Hmph! I'm worried about you, but you're treating my good intentions like donkey lungs."
"Do you really think his poem isn't plagiarized?"
"How could I not know if it's plagiarized? The quality of'Shuidiao Getou' is absolutely top-tier in the literary world. Even those old fogeys from Daluo Academy might not be able to compose it. If it were truly an ancient work, it would have been widely circulated by scholars who cultivate the literary Dao long ago. How could it be unknown now?"
"I think you've hit a snag today. Perhaps this Ning Que is truly a literary genius."
"After all, heroes are as numerous as carp crossing the river. With your arrogance, you might suffer a great loss in the future."
"Since Senior Chu is so interested, how about we make a bet?"
Gu Yun said with a smile.
"A bet?"
Chu Ruoyao became interested. "How do you want to bet?"
"It's simple, we bet on whether this Ning Que truly possesses genuine talent and learning."
Gu Yun said with a smile.
"Good! If it's true, then I want the thousand illusions pipa!"
Chu Ruoyao's eyes lit up as she spoke.
Gu Yun was slightly surprised, "Why, you don't want to leave me anymore?"
"What good would that do me? Even if I returned to the Demon Sect, I might not get such a good opportunity."
"Alright, and if I win?"
Gu Yun leaned against the railing. At this moment, everyone's attention was drawn to Ning Que, so no one noticed him.
His gaze lingered unreservedly on Chu Ruoyao's graceful figure, carrying a hint of playfulness, "I hear Senior Chu's dance is unmatched in the Three Thousand Dao Domains. I wonder if I might have the opportunity to witness it?"
Chu Ruoyao's heart skipped a beat. Looking at Gu Yun's ill-intentioned smile, she instinctively wanted to refuse.
After all, she hadn't gained the upper hand against Gu Yun many times. But—
That was the thousand illusions pipa, and Ning Que had caused heavenly phenomena. Her chances of winning were ninety percent. If she didn't dare to bet now, wouldn't she lose all face in front of Gu Yun in the future?
"Good! I agree!"
Chu Ruoyao gritted her silver teeth, "You just prepare the thousand illusions pipa!"
The two clasped hands to seal their oath, their gazes simultaneously turning to the stage below.
At this moment, Ning Que had already brewed his emotions. He stood with his hands behind his back, looking up at the sky, and recited in a clear voice, "Before my bed, the bright moonlight, I wonder if it's frost on the ground. I raise my head to gaze at the bright moon, then lower it, thinking of my hometown."
The poem was simple and direct, yet it vividly depicted the homesickness of a wanderer, instantly resonating with many people present who were far from home.
"Good! Concise and heartfelt!"
"Though short, this poem has profound meaning!"
"Young Master Ning is a great talent!"
Cheers erupted once more.
Most talented scholars were pure-hearted individuals, and they had a considerable fondness for Ning Que, who also possessed talent and came from an ordinary background.
Ning Que was secretly pleased. Without waiting for everyone to savor it, he immediately recited another poem: "A bright moon rises from the sea, sharing this moment across the vast sky. Lovers resent the long night, rising with endless yearning..."
As this poem was uttered, its vast imagery and lingering longing once again shocked the entire venue!
"Another timeless masterpiece!"
"Could this Ning Que truly be a literary immortal descended to the mortal realm?!"
Exclamations and praises surged like waves, one higher than the last.
Moon Pity Star's gaze towards Ning Que once again carried admiration and recognition.
She became even more certain of her judgment. Someone who could continuously write such astonishing works would surely not be a person seeking fame through deceit.
Now, the only trouble was whether that young master from Heaven Character Number One would become enraged and humiliated by this.
There were very few people in the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains who could produce three thousand top-grade spirit stones at once.
Even her young miss might not be able to handle it!
Thinking of this, she looked up at Gu Yun, but saw that he remained calm, with not a hint of surprise on his face, as if he wasn't at all astonished by Ning Que's actions.
"Should I contact the young miss in advance?"
Moon Pity Star couldn't make up her mind, feeling that things seemed to be getting a bit out of her control.
However, Ning Que reveled in the compliments, becoming even more spirited and full of heroic pride.
At this moment, he felt his heart soar to the heavens. All the previous doubts were nothing but the noisy chirping of a jumping clown: "Frogs in a well, dare to question a true dragon?!"
"I will eventually soar into the nine heavens, unstoppable!!"
He sneered inwardly, his heroic spirit surging. No longer confined to the fixed form of moon-themed poems, his poetic inspiration surged within him, desperate to be unleashed!
He wanted these people from another world to witness the true vastness of the sea of poetry!
With this thought, he spoke again, his voice becoming even more resonant, carrying an air of looking down on the world: "Do you not see... one should enjoy life to the fullest when successful, and not let the golden goblet face the moon empty. Heaven has endowed me with talent, which will surely be useful; though a thousand gold coins are spent, they will come back again..."
"...Fear not the floating clouds that obscure the view, for one is naturally at the highest level!"
Classic lines, some bold and impassioned, spewed from Ning Que's mouth like a rapid-fire cannon. Each one stirred literary energy, causing light to flow and various phenomena to appear!
The entire Chunxiang Tower seemed to transform into an ocean of literary Dao, with talent soaring to the heavens, shaking people's hearts!
The crowd had long been numbed by the continuous onslaught of these divine works, leaving only endless shock and adoration.
The light in Moon Pity Star's beautiful eyes grew brighter and brighter, with not a shred of doubt remaining in her heart.
How could someone who could continuously compose so many poems of varied styles, yet all reaching a perfect state, be plagiarizing??
This was clearly a literary prodigy, rarely seen in a thousand years! The person the young miss was looking for must undoubtedly be him!
Chu Ruoyao was also somewhat dumbfounded, followed by immense smugness. She transmitted a message to Gu Yun, "See? This person's level has probably reached a perfect state."
"I'm taking back those words now. Even those old fogeys from Daluo Academy might not be able to compare to him!"
"Hehe, the thousand illusions pipa, the thousand illusions pipa is mine. Just admit defeat..."
However, to her surprise, Gu Yun's expression remained calm, without a trace of panic.
"Admit defeat?"
Gu Yun chuckled softly and shook his head, looking calmly at Ning Que below the stage. He said coldly, "Miss Chu, you're celebrating a bit too early. This Ning Que seems remarkably talented, but he's actually talking nonsense."
"These poems of his, with such a wide range of styles, can they truly belong to someone of this age?"
Chu Ruoyao was stunned, her brain feeling as if it had been struck hard. Her clever intellect once again took over.
The literary Dao emphasizes inspiration.
No matter how much of a genius Ning Que was, he couldn't possibly possess such a wide range of literary styles.
Damn it, such a big flaw, how did I not notice it before?!!
After realizing this, Chu Ruoyao's face turned as black as charcoal. She gave Gu Yun a resentful look. Damn it, she had been tricked by this scoundrel again!
At this time, after continuously reciting seven or eight timeless masterpieces, Ning Que felt he had completely conquered the entire audience, his prominence unmatched.
He proudly raised his head, his gaze provocatively directed at Gu Yun in the Heaven Character Number One Private Room on the second floor, his voice carrying undisguised sarcasm: "That one upstairs, I, Ning, have now composed several pieces. Can this prove my genuine talent and learning?"
"If you still don't believe it, you can point out which ancient sage I, Ning, plagiarized, and from which classic text?"
He asked this question very cunningly, full of confidence.
These poems were from his previous life; how could a mere Gu Yun possibly know them?
It was just a pity that he had wasted so many at once this time. His path ahead might be even more difficult.
"Damn bastard, don't let me find out your identity!"
[Ding! Child of Destiny Ning Que has developed extreme aversion towards the Host, rewarding 8000 villain value points]
All eyes once again focused on Gu Yun.
Someone spoke, "This young master, Young Master Ning has already proven his talent. Should you not apologize for your rash words just now?"
"Exactly, such an astonishing talent, yet slandered by you, young master. It's unreasonable, no matter how you look at it."
Under everyone's gaze, Gu Yun slowly stood up and walked to the edge of the private room again.
"Shuidiao Getou, Quiet Night Thoughts, Gazing at the Moon and Longing for a Distant Friend... Bringing in the Wine, Ascending Flying Peak..."
With each word Gu Yun spoke, Ning Que's face grew paler, until finally, he was ashen, his body trembling uncontrollably.
"No, impossible, how could you know these poem titles?"
His words were still unspoken, yet it was as if someone had choked his throat.
With absolute crushing power, Gu Yun didn't need to play any tricks with him.
A book appeared in his hand. As spiritual energy surged, it flipped through pages, and all the poems Ning Que had recited earlier were projected into the heavens and earth, listed exactly as they were, word for word.
The cover of the book bore the four gilded characters, "Tang Song Poetry Collection," shining brightly under the divine light!
"Everyone, this item was obtained by me during my travels in the Supreme Divine Dynasty. It originated from the Gu Family Emperor Child and was officially published and distributed by the Supreme Divine Dynasty."
"It's just that I wonder why this Ning Que today... dares to falsely claim these as his own work?"
"Could it be that he truly believes he can get away with imitation and plagiarism?"
Boom—!
The entire Chunxiang Tower erupted!
"This... this Ning Que, he really did plagiarize!"
"Shameless! Utterly shameless!"
"And I just revered him so much, bah!"
The evidence was conclusive, undeniable!
Whether Gu Yun's words were true could be verified almost instantly.
Ning Que, who had just been the center of attention, instantly became the target of public condemnation.
Waves of disdain, curses, and anger threatened to drown him.
"No, it's not like that..."
He stammered, "These are all my works!"
"I, I still know others..."
Ning Que began to recite poems, but for every one he spoke, Gu Yun's poetry collection flipped a page.
Until he had nothing left to recite.
"Is that all?"
Gu Yun said with a smile, "This poetry collection contains over five hundred poems. You've only recited less than a fifth. Do you want me to give you a few more hints to help awaken your sealed memories?"
///631//
Chapter 631: Arrangements (Two in One)
Inside Chunxiang Tower, there was a deathly silence.
Ning Que's face was as pale as paper, his lips trembling, unable to utter another word.
He had racked his brains, using all the knowledge he had accumulated in his life.
But… someone had already beaten him to it.
No, impossible.
He was a Transmigrator; he should be the protagonist of this world!
A feeling of emptiness washed over him. Ning Que, like a madman, pointed at Gu Yun and roared, his voice shrill: "No, impossible! How do you know these poems? These poems weren't written by you, not by you!"
"Indeed, they weren't written by me."
Gu Yun's lips curved into a smile. "Didn't I say? This collection of poems comes from the Gu Family Emperor Child. If you don't believe me, you can go to the Supreme Divine Dynasty and inquire."
"See if even street urchins can recite them."
How vast were the Three Thousand Dao Domains? From the Supreme Imperial Capital to the Eternal Imperial Capital, even a Great Emperor tearing through space would need a month to cross it.
Poems circulating among ordinary cultivators would not spread across the sea without several hundred years.
"Ning Que, this young master doesn't know how you obtained this collection of poems from the Supreme Divine Dynasty, but if you want to show off in front of others, you must be prepared to be exposed."
"Or… you can recite a timeless masterpiece not from this collection, and I will acknowledge you as a literary genius."
Gu Yun spoke with a smile, and the aura on his body pressed down, making everyone present a little breathless.
Crack, crack. Ning Que felt his legs trembling, as if he would directly kneel in the next second.
His mouth opened and closed, but he couldn't speak.
Casually create a timeless masterpiece?
If he really had that ability, he wouldn't have been an idle, good-for-nothing shut-in in his previous life.
One step slow, every step slow!
A fierce look flashed in his eyes. His path to rise had already collapsed, but he would never let that Gu Family Emperor Child have an easy time.
He just arrived in this world a little earlier than me. Since you blocked my path to rise, I will tear off your hypocritical mask!
Ning Que suddenly raised his head: "Heh heh, heh heh heh, that's right, these poems were indeed not written by me, but so what?!"
"That Gu Family Emperor Child is nothing more than a despicable thief. These poems originate from another civilization, a brilliant kingdom."
"He, he…"
Ning Que opened his mouth, howling miserably, but found that his words caused no ripples. The people beside him looked at him as if he were an idiot, with pity in their eyes.
"How did he go crazy? Such poor psychological endurance, yet he still tries to seek fame and praise like others."
"Exactly, laughable, truly laughable. I was so amazed before, but now it seems that His Royal Highness, the Emperor Child, is the true super all-rounder!"
"Yes, I'm afraid no one in the entire Three Thousand Dao Domains can compare to him."
"Ah, roar, roar, ahhh!!!"
Ning Que was still trying, but he seemed completely out of sorts, unable to speak a complete sentence: "No, it's not like that, don't believe him."
[Ding! Child of Destiny Ning Que's reputation is ruined, destiny value decreased by 20,000 points]
[Ding! Child of Destiny Ning Que's path is cut off, destiny value decreased by 10,000 points]
Is that enough?
Gu Yun only felt bored; for a character like Ning Que, he didn't need to do much.
In the hall, Moon Pity Star's cool expression also became somewhat displeased.
What was supposed to be a pleasant poetry gathering had been ruined into this state. Her gaze towards Ning Que turned to cold disgust.
"Guards, throw this man out!"
Several guards with steady auras immediately stepped forward, and without a word, they lifted Ning Que, who was still roaring and struggling, and unceremoniously dragged him out the door.
The atmosphere in the hall became somewhat stagnant.
Such a scandal erupting at a poetry gathering was truly disappointing.
Moon Pity Star took a deep breath, suppressing the vexation in her heart, and bowed gracefully to everyone present. Her voice returned to its previous calm, but with a trace of imperceptible fatigue: "Everyone, today's incident has spoiled your enjoyment. It is Liansing's inadequate arrangement."
"The poetry gathering will end here. Chunxiang Tower will fully refund everyone's losses."
Upon hearing this, several people in the hall were displeased, but after looking up at Gu Yun, they all remained silent.
"This matter is not Miss Liansing's fault. Please do not take it to heart. The entrance fee we paid earlier at least allowed us to witness Miss's musical attainments, so it was not a wasted trip."
"Miss doesn't need to refund it."
Zhang Zhiwen cupped his hands. What followed might be a storm of blood, so he didn't plan to stay here any longer.
Soon, people left one after another.
Finally, only Gu Yun and Emperor Wuming remained.
"Sixth Prince, aren't you leaving yet?"
Gu Yun suddenly spoke, his gaze like lightning fixed on Emperor Wuming.
The latter's expression changed, and a figure appeared in front of him, his face extremely solemn: "Young Master, this is the Eternal Imperial Capital!"
"I know where this is. I was just reminding the Sixth Prince… that's all."
"Quasi-Emperor First Stage?"
"It seems this is that kid's Dao Protector. Should I take him out for you? We can cancel our previous bet."
"Don't worry, I guarantee no one will ever know. I'm a professional."
"Dream on, Senior Chu. Get ready. I can't wait to see your dance."
Chu Ruoyao was eager to try, but was unexpectedly doused with cold water.
The Dao Protector seemed to want to say something else, but Emperor Wuming, behind him, suddenly stepped forward, his eyes slightly hollow, emitting faint black mist.
"Let's go."
"But Your Highness…"
"Did you not hear me tell you to leave?!!"
Emperor Wuming's voice was incredibly cold, carrying boundless chill.
The man couldn't help but shiver. The two no longer hesitated, flicking their sleeves and departing.
In the blink of an eye, the vast Chunxiang Tower hall was left with only Gu Yun, Chu Ruoyao, Moon Pity Star, and a few maidservants.
The courtesan on the stage swayed gracefully and came to Gu Yun's side, bowing deeply: "I must thank Young Master for your help today. Otherwise, Liansing would truly have been deceived by that fame-seeking person. I apologize for any offense given earlier, please forgive me, Young Master."
Her voice was soft and sweet, as if carrying some strange magical power that could make people deeply entranced.
Gu Yun, possessing Myriad Transformation Power, naturally wouldn't fall for it, but he also saw that this woman's intentions were impure.
Since that was the case, he would play along with her charade.
Thinking of this, Gu Yun casually made a gesture of support, saying indifferently: "Miss Liansing, there's no need for formalities. It was merely a small effort."
He then put on a dissolute posture, gently taking Moon Pity Star's small hand: "Now that the irrelevant people have all left, I wonder if what Miss Liansing said earlier… about being my honored guest, still counts?"
Moon Pity Star's pretty face flushed slightly upon hearing this, and her eyes, as they shifted, added a few more touches of charm.
She did not break free from Gu Yun's hand. Instead, she lowered her head and responded shyly: "Young Master jokes. Since Liansing has promised, it naturally counts."
Saying that, she glanced at Chu Ruoyao again: "It's just that there are many eyes here. Why don't… Young Master move to Liansing's boudoir? Liansing can offer tea and then… explain in detail to Young Master?"
In her opinion, Chu Ruoyao, dressed in men's clothing, was somewhat inappropriate.
Those eyes looking at Gu Yun seemed to contain myriad emotions, wanting to speak but holding back.
Chu Ruoyao looked at this scene with deep disgust: "Seductress, disgusting!"
"Cough cough."
Gu Yun's lips curved into a smile, and he put on an eager expression. His reputation was well-known, and now that he was acting naturally, no one would suspect anything.
"Miss Liansing is right."
"Xiao Yao, that Young Master Ning left in a hurry. I haven't had a good discussion with him about where his poetry collection came from."
"Go and invite him back for me."
"Why…"
Chu Ruoyao was about to speak when she suddenly received a sound transmission from Gu Yun.
"Senior Chu, you wouldn't want to…"
"You!"
"Hmph."
"Then you be careful yourself, don't fall for this woman's tricks!"
Chu Ruoyao turned around angrily and vanished in a flash.
Moon Pity Star: "Young Master, if you wish to invite that Ning Que, Chunxiang Tower can do it for you."
Her gaze fell in the direction of the departing Chu Ruoyao, her eyes slightly curious, as if wondering why a fair-faced young master would be addressed as Xiao Yao.
"No need, Miss Liansing. Please lead the way, I'm quite impatient."
Gu Yun looked eager, stepping forward to embrace Moon Pity Star's waist.
Moon Pity Star lightly dodged, graceful as a startled swan, elegant as a swimming dragon.
Every smile was captivating, every movement showcased her charm.
"Young Master, please follow this servant."
A fragrant breeze wafted, carrying a hint of seduction. Gu Yun's expression was intoxicated, as if he had been utterly captivated by this peerless courtesan, following her dazedly towards the hidden boudoir deep within Chunxiang Tower… "Damn scoundrel, is that courtesan so good that she's stolen your soul?!"
Leaving Chunxiang Tower, Chu Ruoyao was still indignant, mostly due to her dissatisfaction with Gu Yun's differential treatment.
Her divine sense spread out, quickly locking onto Ning Que's location.
However, her eyes narrowed slightly, evidently not expecting someone to have gotten there before her.
With a flash, her figure instantly disappeared.
As the Blood Pipa of the Demonic Sect, if she didn't want to reveal herself, no one present could discover her.
Ning Que, who had been thrown out, walked along a small path in the Imperial Capital, his ordinary face filled with unwillingness.
"Why, why is this happening? Today should have been the day I made a name for myself in the capital, how did it turn out like this?"
"That Gu Family Emperor Child must also be a Transmigrator. Hmph, so what if he arrived a few years earlier than me? I'll tear off your hypocritical mask someday!"
As Ning Que thought this, he suddenly felt his vision go dark.
A figure emerged, it was Emperor Wuming's Dao Protector.
Looking at Ning Que, who was heavily injured and lying on the ground, a trace of helplessness appeared on his face: "His Highness is still so vindictive. This poor scholar poses no threat to him at all, yet he insists on eradicating him."
"If not for…"
"Forget it, there are no other options now."
As members of the Sixth Prince Emperor Wuming's maternal clan, their rise and fall were firmly tied to Emperor Wuming.
Three years ago, the unexpected death of Crown Prince Di Wushang gave them some thoughts they shouldn't have had.
The current Eternal Imperial Dynasty was not peaceful in the dark.
All five princes had a chance, but following Emperor Wuming, where should they go?
"Wait… where's that kid?"
In just a moment of daze, Ning Que, who had just fainted from the sneak attack, was gone.
The Sixth Prince's Dao Protector's eyes flashed with astonishment. He looked around, and a chill rose from the soles of his feet.
"No, this place is not suitable for long stay. This child might not be simple. After returning, I must make His Highness plan early!"
He didn't hesitate and his figure instantly vanished.
In the dark.
Chu Ruoyao looked at Ning Que, who was like a dead dog, her expression unchanged: "If I had been any later, this kid would probably be dead."
Normally, she wouldn't bother saving Ning Que, but this time Gu Yun explicitly wanted to see this kid.
Then she couldn't let him die. Ning Que's life wasn't important, but if Gu Yun deducted points from her, it would be a loss.
She could also use this as an opportunity to bargain with that little brat.
Maybe she wouldn't have to dance~
...Passing through several layers of beaded curtains and embroidered screens, the lingering scent of cosmetics was gradually replaced by a refined, cool fragrance.
Moon Pity Star's residence was not as gaudy and extravagant as that of ordinary courtesans. Instead, it was arranged with extreme elegance and simplicity. Several landscape paintings with profound artistic conception hung on the walls, and faint blue smoke rose from the incense burner.
"Young Master, please sit."
Moon Pity Star led Gu Yun to sit on the soft couch and personally poured him a cup of fragrant spiritual tea, her movements elegant.
Gu Yun took the teacup, a frivolous smile on his face: "Miss Liansing, since you've invited me, why still wear a veil? Wouldn't that spoil the mood?"
Moon Pity Star's delicate body tilted slightly, as if shy yet feigning anger: "Why is Young Master so impatient?"
"The night is long. Why not first taste this 'Drunken Immortal's Lure' and listen to Liansing play a tune for you?"
"Drunken Immortal's Lure?"
Gu Yun raised the teacup to his nose and lightly sniffed. A peculiar mellow fragrance entered his nostrils: "Could it be that even immortals can get drunk?"
"Hehehe~~"
Moon Pity Star chuckled: "Your Highness jests. It's merely an improvement of tea using winemaking techniques, giving it a unique flavor. Make immortals drunk?"
"Liansing doesn't have such ability."
Saying that, she came to an ancient zither and slowly sat down on her knees.
Her slender fingers plucked the strings, and the music, compared to what she played in the main hall earlier, had a more soul-stirring charm.
The zither's melody lingered, as if it could draw people into oblivion, making them shed all their defenses.
Gu Yun leaned back on the soft couch, the tea in his cup drained in one gulp, his eyes gradually becoming hazy: "A song that breaks the heart, where in the world… can I find a kindred spirit?"
Moon Pity Star was startled by his words and looked up at Gu Yun.
She saw that the young man had already fallen into a deep sleep, as if the arrangements in the teacup had taken effect.
She slowly rose and moved with light lotus steps to Gu Yun's side.
Looking down at the young man's handsome face, her heart was stirred.
She had initially thought this was just an ordinary young master from a noble family, but she never expected… well… the person Miss was looking for was probably that Gu Family Emperor Child, not this person.
"Young Master Yun, please rest here for the night."
Moon Pity Star reached out, about to cover Gu Yun with the quilt.
//632//
Chapter 632: Shen Jingshu
But just as Moon Pity Star's fingertip was about to touch the brocade quilt, a warm, powerful hand suddenly seized her wrist.
Moon Pity Star was greatly alarmed. She snapped her head up, only to meet a pair of clear, deep eyes.
"You... you weren't asleep?"
Moon Pity Star cried out in shock. That Drunken Immortal Lure was quite extraordinary; even a Great Saint expert would fall for it if caught off guard.
Let alone Gu Yun, who only displayed the cultivation level of an ordinary person in the Dao Body Realm.
However, the current situation far exceeded her expectations. Subconsciously, she intended to circulate her spiritual power to break free, but was horrified to discover that her spiritual power was like a clay ox entering the sea, firmly suppressed by an even mightier force, unable to be raised even slightly.
Gu Yun slowly rose. With just a gentle tug of his hand, Moon Pity Star felt an irresistible surge of massive power strike her. By the time she reacted, she had already fallen into the young man's embrace.
"Just a mere fine wine, and you thought it could knock me out?"
Gu Yun directly picked up the jade pot from the side, drank it all in one gulp, and maintained his composed smile, completely unaffected.
Moon Pity Star stared blankly at the scene, her brain completely shutting down.
"Th-this..."
"Miss Lianxing, during such a beautiful night, you only thought of intoxicating me. Isn't that a bit disappointing?"
Gu Yun's arm, wrapped around Moon Pity Star, began to wander, quickly learning most of her secrets.
Redness crept up her neck and spread to her face. Moon Pity Star's delicate body trembled slightly. She wanted to struggle, but it was useless.
"Y-young Master... please respect yourself."
Moon Pity Star's voice trembled. Although she was in Chunxiang Tower, she had never had such intimate contact with a man.
The scorching body temperature and overbearing aura emanating from Gu Yun made her flustered and completely lost her composure.
"Respect myself?"
"Miss Lianxing, when you invited me into your boudoir, you weren't unprepared the whole time, were you?"
Gu Yun chuckled softly and gently pinched her with his fingers.
Moon Pity Star immediately let out a muffled groan. All the strength seemed to drain from her body, and she collapsed limply into Gu Yun's arms, even her fingertips numb and weak.
She gasped softly, feeling as if her mind was being flooded with a series of strange thoughts.
Her delicate body felt slightly hot, and she was on the verge of collapse.
Her crystal-clear jade hands couldn't help but reach out toward Gu Yun's body, her flushed skin reflecting her inner turmoil.
"Enough, Gu Yun... she belongs to me."
Just as Moon Pity Star was becoming confused and aroused, her clothes half-undone and about to fall into disgrace, a cool voice rang out, abruptly cutting through the room's sensual atmosphere.
Under the bright moonlight, a figure silently appeared.
She wore a moon-white dress, her figure tall and statuesque, standing there like a freshly bloomed white magnolia.
Her appearance was breathtakingly beautiful and striking, bright and moving. Her phoenix eyes were clear and cool, yet when she looked at others, it was with a condescending scrutiny.
Her jade nose was delicately upturned, her lips pale cherry. Her dark hair was loosely gathered with a simple white magnolia hairpin, with a few strands falling beside her cheeks. Her entire demeanor exuded inherent nobility and cold arrogance.
Just by standing there, her gaze sweeping over them calmly, she naturally carried an invisible sense of oppression, as if looking at her for too long was sacrilege.
The moonlight flowed behind her, plating her with a hazy halo, adding a touch of mystery and nobility.
Moon Pity Star, as if grasping a life raft, struggled to escape Gu Yun's embrace, her voice choked with tears: "Miss!"
Gu Yun did not let go. Instead, he held the completely limp Moon Pity Star even tighter in his arms, looking with interest at the woman who had suddenly appeared.
"Eldest Miss Shen, I thought you wouldn't show yourself."
"After all, sacrificing an insignificant maidservant shouldn't be a big deal for you, right?"
[Ding! A new Destiny Heroine has been discovered]
[xuan qing treasure mirror, Page 29]
[xuan qing treasure mirror, Page 9]
[Name: Shen Jingshu]
[Age: 892]
[Affection: 50]
[Cultivation: Quasi-Emperor Second Layer]
[Physique: Moon Essence Saint Body]
[Identity: Heroine of *Sage of Literature Supreme*]
Gu Yun's teasing attitude did not anger Shen Jingshu; her cold and beautiful face remained largely expressionless.
"Release her."
"Eldest Miss Shen, is this the attitude you use when asking for something?"
Gu Yun made no move, maintaining his lazy posture.
His fingertips moved slightly, easily shaping Moon Pity Star however he wished, playing with her in the palm of his hand.
Moon Pity Star's face had long lost all composure, and she was nearly in tears.
Shen Jingshu took a deep breath: "The person you are looking for is not her. Release her, and I will talk to you."
"How will we talk?"
"Eldest Miss Shen, I think you should show some sincerity, shouldn't you?"
"Don't worry, you will be satisfied!"
Shen Jingshu spoke, then, under Moon Pity Star's astonished and disbelieving gaze, she walked forward, sat on the bed, and leaned against Gu Yun's other shoulder.
"I'll take her place, how about that?"
Moon Pity Star widened her beautiful eyes, staring at her own mistress in disbelief.
A hint of surprise flashed in Gu Yun's eyes, immediately turning into a knowing smile.
"Eldest Miss Shen's choice is quite surprising to me."
Gu Yun released the hand restraining Moon Pity Star, allowing her to stagger back like a frightened rabbit, hiding behind Shen Jingshu and tightly clutching her mistress's sleeve.
"Miss, you..."
Her throat was dry, and she spoke incoherently, opening and closing her mouth.
"You go out first. Let me speak with His Highness Gu Yun for a while."
Shen Jingshu gently patted the back of her hand, signaling her to relax.
Moon Pity Star glanced worriedly at her mistress, then fearfully at Gu Yun, and finally bit her lip, lowered her head, and quickly exited the room, gently closing the door behind her.
After hesitating at the door for a moment, still worried about Shen Jingshu, she stood guard by the door, waiting quietly.
"Your little maidservant is certainly loyal."
Gu Yun spoke with a smile, tightening the arm he had around Shen Jingshu.
"Why, if you truly like her, I can give her to you."
Shen Jingshu said, her voice lacking any sense of distance.
As disciples of Immortal Ancient Families, although the relationship between the Gu Family and the Shen Family wasn't as good as their relationship with the Qin Family, they always had dealings with each other.
And as the most outstanding disciple of the Shen Family's younger generation, Shen Jingshu naturally left a deep impression on the young Gu Yun.
"You know, compared to Moon Pity Star, I actually want you more."
Gu Yun made no attempt to hide his desire, saying this while hooking Shen Jingshu's chin.
"But you know that is absolutely impossible."
Shen Jingshu calmly stated: "In the Shen Family, my destiny is to be a bargaining chip for political marriage to solidify the Shen Family's status, and that partner will definitely not be you, Gu Yun!"
"Sacred Radiance Immortal Palace, Shadow Immortal Palace, or Chaos Imperial Dynasty—it will most likely be one of these three. There will be no surprises."
//633//
Chapter 633: A Bird in a Cage
"As far as I know, the Shen Family has already arranged a marriage for me."
"Why... for a momentary lapse, would you want to become enemies with the entire Immortal Ancient Shen Family?"
Shen Jingshu's tone was calm, without a ripple, and a hint of playfulness flickered in her cold phoenix eyes.
"Why not?"
Gu Yun curved his lips into a smile: "If Miss Shen is truly willing to offer herself, perhaps I can genuinely consider it?"
Inside the room, incense smoke curled upwards.
Shen Jingshu allowed Gu Yun to embrace her, but her body remained ramrod straight, like a jade bamboo unwilling to bend.
She spoke coldly, her voice clear and crisp like ice springs hitting stone.
"Gu Yun, put away your playboy tricks. You forced me to show myself; surely it wasn't for these romantic theatrics."
Gu Yun lowered his hand: "As expected, I can't hide anything from Young Lady Shen. However, what I don't understand is, what use is an un-matured Literary Heart Sacred Body in escaping your current predicament?"
When the false is taken for true, the true is also false. Although Ning Que is currently just a good-for-nothing, only capable of copying poems to gain fame, he possesses the Literary Heart Sacred Body after all.
He will eventually become a true literary giant; this was a back door his Child of Destiny father opened for him in advance, but everything came a bit too late.
However, this Shen Jingshu seemed to have been plotting something for a long time.
Chunxiang Tower's informants are spread across the Four Imperial Dynasties. Aside from the Supreme Divine Dynasty, she can be said to control the entire intelligence network of the Three Thousand Dao Domains.
Her ambitions are not small, and her thoughts are far from as simple as they appear.
"You can indeed discern the Literary Heart Sacred Body."
"This is a physique not even on the Rankings of All Heavens Physiques. It seems the world's evaluation of you, the Gu Family Emperor Child, is truly biased."
Shen Jingshu's calm eyes still showed no emotion.
"Why be so polite between us? Don't worry, I've already made preparations; our conversation won't be detected by anyone."
Gu Yun said calmly.
Shen Jingshu looked around, realizing they were already in a strange space.
She closed her eyes and carefully sensed, only to find that she had momentarily become rootless, like duckweed.
She looked at Gu Yun in shock: "H-how did you do that?"
"Young Lady Shen, I don't think I have time to waste with you."
"I have my methods; you just need to know that!"
Shen Jingshu composed herself, the slight ripples in her icy eyes settling back into calm.
"The value of the Literary Heart Sacred Body lies not in its combat power, but in its potential to discern the essence of all laws in the world."
"And now, I need this potential..."
Saying this, Shen Jingshu naturally tore open the clothing at her chest, revealing her exposed charms without reservation before Gu Yun, but Gu Yun had no mind for appreciation.
Only because on the skin that should have been fair as jade, a strange dark purple mark conspicuously appeared.
The mark resembled a closed eye, surrounded by wisps of black energy, emitting an ominous and decaying aura.
"This is..."
Gu Yun's pupils contracted slightly: "The power of Disaster. "
"The Shen Family people actually dared to touch the forbidden zone. It seems those old fogeys are tired of living."
"Those on the verge of death are naturally insane!"
"Indulging in the Emperor Coffin, lingering on, some will inevitably grow mad. The Shen Family has existed for too long, and people's hearts differ, making them hard to fathom."
"They touched a taboo, and sooner or later, their claws will extend beyond the Shen Family. The Immortal Ancient Gu Family is their biggest stumbling block."
"Why are you telling me this?"
"Nothing, just don't want their plan to succeed."
"The current Shen Family is almost an empty shell. We, these seemingly glamorous Immortal Ancient Family disciples, are actually just puppets of others."
"Originally, I planned to use the Literary Heart Sacred Body's power to discern the origin of all laws, to help me analyze this power from beyond the domain, but now..."
"I've completely ruined everything. You should hate me..."
"Hate you?"
"His intentions were impure to begin with; even with the Literary Heart Sacred Body, his future achievements would be limited."
"It's just a pity that Heaven is unfair."
Shen Jingshu looked up at the sky, a hint of anger burning in her eyes.
She couldn't understand why this generation's Literary Heart Sacred Body would fall upon such a shameless scoundrel!
"Heaven has never been fair. For you and I, born into Immortal Ancient Families, to talk about such things is rather laughable."
"Indeed..."
Shen Jingshu lowered her head, laughing mockingly.
How many people in the Three Thousand Dao Domains float and sink on the sea of destiny? Someone like her was already fortunate.
"The once arrogant and cold Shen Family noblewoman, upon our reunion today, actually threw herself into my arms like this, which has made me lose a lot of interest."
"You... have you just accepted your fate?"
"I've already made an effort."
"Slap!"
A crisp slap echoed. Shen Jingshu clutched her swollen cheek, looking at Gu Yun, somewhat stunned.
"That wasn't effort; at most, it was... struggling."
"A drowning person flailing about, exhausting themselves completely."
"And when hope truly arrives, they become anxious and dare not move forward."
Gu Yun pinched Shen Jingshu's chin, forcing her to look him in the eye: "The power of those scumbags from the forbidden zone, your Shen Family treats it as a treasure, but my Gu Family scoffs at it."
"Follow me, and I will help you control the Immortal Ancient Shen Family!"
"But I... am already a dying person."
"Is that so?"
Gu Yun chuckled softly, his finger hovering above the mark. The purplish-black mark began to tremble as if encountering its nemesis.
Shen Jingshu watched this scene, dumbfounded: "H-how is this possible?"
"You are merely the Myriad Transformation Body..."
"Starting from humble beginnings, I am already far from what I once was."
Gu Yun actually felt emotional inside. If the Gu Family hadn't helped him complete that cruel primitive accumulation, perhaps he would have died long ago on the endless cultivation path.
It is precisely because of this that he would never let anyone ruin all of this—not a Child of Destiny, and certainly not a creature from the forbidden zone!
What Gu Changge could do, he could also do, and... he would be even more ruthless!
Not becoming an immortal until the forbidden zone is emptied?
His goal was to make the Gu Family truly transcend all Daos!
"This is merely a simple demonstration. Since the Immortal Ancient Shen Family has already acted against you, they naturally have means of detection."
"If I were to completely remove it now, it wouldn't help your situation in the slightest. Do you understand this point?"
Shen Jingshu stared blankly at Gu Yun, the mark on her chest still faintly burning, reminding her that this was not an illusion.
Gu Yun could actually suppress this forbidden power that even the Shen Family ancestors were helpless against. This was not an imagined fantasy, but a real, tangible hope.
After a long moment, she took a deep breath, her voice gradually recovering: "I understand. Startling the snake will only make me die faster."
"That's good then."
"However, while I can't touch it for now, I can give you some ways to deal with it."
As Gu Yun spoke, he gently tapped Shen Jingshu's glabella with his finger.
Instantly, demonic energy overflowed, and a black demonic flower gradually formed on her glabella before finally disappearing.
//634//
Chapter 634: The Transaction (Two-in-One)
After a moment of disorientation, Shen Jingshu touched her glabella; it felt cool, and there was nothing unusual.
But she could clearly feel that an indescribable power had appeared within her body.
She sat cross-legged, the Dao Rhyme in the air being exceptionally rich.
This instantly allowed her to enter a meditative state. Looking inward, the black Demonic Flower, though hidden from view, had taken root in her Sea of Consciousness. As its petals unfurled, threads of Demonic Qi continuously emanated, weaving an invisible great net.
This power was extremely mystical, and the dark purple mark seemed to be enveloped without any awareness.
The two complemented each other perfectly, showing no flaws.
"Th-this, this is... a Demonic Seed?"
"But... it seems a little different. How can you also control the power of Calamity?!"
Shen Jingshu raised her eyes to look at Gu Yun, shock evident in them.
"The Power of Calamity?"
"No, no, no. It's just that I want it to manifest in this form right now."
"When the time is right, it can also transform into the most solemn judgment, clearing all obstacles for you!"
A divine light flashed in Gu Yun's eyes, and Shen Jingshu felt as if her Sea of Consciousness was about to burn. The mysterious power enveloping the Calamity instantly turned tyrannical, like the fiercest beast, swallowing it completely in an instant.
"No! Stop!!"
She paled in shock, but when she came back to her senses, she realized nothing had happened.
"Don't worry, it was just an illusion. You just need to know that I possess this ability."
Gu Yun chuckled and spoke.
Shen Jingshu's body went slack, her chest heaving, her heart tumultuous.
Only now did she realize that in the hands of the young man before her, she seemed to have become a plaything to be manipulated at will.
Her cultivation at the Quasi-Emperor Second Layer was useless; the true hidden methods of the person before her were probably far more terrifying than she imagined.
"You are truly a monster."
"Thank you for the compliment."
Gu Yun didn't mind at all, and Shen Jingshu's emotions gradually calmed down.
Regarding the events concerning the Shen Family, she only understood bits and pieces; she would need to climb to a higher position to learn more.
"How about it? Are you interested in taking a look at the Patriarch position?"
"Hmph! How could it be that easy? Within the Shen Family, I am merely a bargaining chip for a marriage alliance. Currently, I still have to hide to prevent them from realizing I have a chance to escape their control. Wanting to become the Patriarch is nothing but a fool's dream."
"All difficulties stem only from insufficient firepower. I just ask you: Do you want it, or not!"
Gu Yun pinched Shen Jingshu's chin and spoke with a smile.
"I want it! Of course, I want it!"
"Otherwise, should I let that simp continue to lord it over me?!"
"What kind of joke is this?!"
"Simp?!"
"Are you talking about... Shen Jingzhou?"
A handsome man appeared in Gu Yun's mind. The reputation of this Shen Family Emperor's Son in the Three Thousand Dao Domains was certainly not bad; he shouldn't be associated with the term'simp.'
"If not him, then who?"
Perhaps because she had gotten rid of a long-standing trouble, Shen Jingshu's expression became much more lively than before.
This was more in line with the image Gu Yun had of her—she was an arrogant Eldest Miss, not a ruthless block of ice.
"That's true... You are still young, so perhaps you don't know about the rotten things he has done!"
Speaking of Shen Jingzhou, the cold Yu Jie in his arms expressed indescribable disdain. She didn't have much affection for this blood-related younger brother.
"Elaborate."
Gu Yun was intrigued. Gossip is unavoidable in life. Who would have thought that two scions standing at the peak of power in the Three Thousand Dao Domains would be engrossed in another person's romantic affairs?
Shen Jingshu rolled her eyes at Gu Yun, seemingly finding his attitude of enjoying the spectacle tiresome. But she finally spoke, her tone carrying unconcealed contempt: "Him? He appears noble and upright on the surface, but in reality, he is an absolute sentimental fool, and the most useless kind at that."
"You know Ye Qingcheng, right?"
"That first Divine Maiden of the Shadow Immortal Palace."
"I don't know what kind of bewitching potion that enchantress used, but she managed to completely infatuate that idiot Shen Jingzhou."
"Before, he was running to the Shadow Immortal Palace every few days. The dignified Shen Family Emperor's Son acted like an attendant, trying every means to please Ye Qingcheng. He even mobilized family resources, repeatedly helping her secretly eliminate rivals and stabilize her position in the Shadow Immortal Palace."
"If not for this, how could Ye Qingcheng, a woman with no foundation, have established herself in a dangerous den like the Dragon's Pool and Tiger's Den?"
"Oh? So that's how it is."
Gu Yun grew interested: "He did it so obviously, and your Shen Family higher-ups tolerated it?"
"Tolerated?"
"Hmph, those old fogeys are incredibly strict in their control over everyone else, but they are unreasonably good only to Shen Jingzhou."
"He is the Pearl in the Palm of the entire Immortal Ancient Shen Family. If he wants something, even the moon in the sky must be brought to him!"
"It's only because he said that enjoying the feeling of pursuing love would be of great help when crossing the Great Emperor Tribulation in the future that those old Clan Elders turned a blind eye. Otherwise, Ye Qingcheng would probably have been sent to Shen Jingzhou's bed long ago."
"Tsk tsk, it's still a little story of pure love."
"Heh heh, pure love?"
"I think it's just cheap!"
"For so many years, Ye Qingcheng has always treated him coldly, discarding him like a worn-out shoe once she was done using him."
"Yet Shen Jingzhou remains tireless and still accepts it gladly."
"A few years ago, in order to help Ye Qingcheng completely secure the Divine Maiden position, he specifically went to the Abyss of Godfall and retrieved a Shadow Divine Stone. As a result, he was affected by the Ancient God's Will inside, nearly losing his life. He lay in bed recuperating for three years before recovering. But when he returned to the Shadow Immortal Palace, Ye Qingcheng was nowhere to be found."
"It is said that after obtaining the Shadow Divine Stone, Ye Qingcheng successfully broke through to the Quasi-Emperor realm, and her status in the Shadow Immortal Palace became incomparable to before. No longer needing Shen Jingzhou's support from behind, she deliberately distanced herself from him. Now, she seems to be out performing some secret mission."
"The first sword upon reaching the shore is used to cut down the beloved, huh?"
"Quite interesting."
"Exactly! An ordinary person encountering this situation, if not becoming sworn enemies, would at least sever all ties."
"But do you know what Shen Jingzhou said?"
"What?"
Gu Yun listened attentively.
"He said: 'Qing-City has me in her heart. Otherwise, why would she only accept the cultivation resources I send her? It must be that she feels her cultivation is too low to be worthy of me, which is why she left for a distant land. She will return to my side someday!'"
"Then, he immediately went and gathered a pile of Heavenly Materials and Earthly Treasures, claiming they were to help her consolidate her realm!!"
When recounting these words, Shen Jingshu's imitation was vivid, and the sarcasm in her tone almost spilled over.
"It seems you have a strong opinion."
"Nonsense! What the hell is this if not cheap? He's practically disgraced the Immortal Ancient Shen Family!"
"Those blind old Clan Elders even said that this boy is just young and naive, and once he passes this age of first love, his future achievements will be limitless."
"Ptooey!"
"Alright, calm down, calm down. You finally have hope; don't ruin your health with anger."
Gu Yun gently soothed Shen Jingshu's heaving chest and spoke softly.
"What are you doing?"
"Nothing much, just helping you Smooth your Qi."
"Smoothing Qi is usually done from the back, right?"
"My technique is excellent; I can do it from the front or the back."
"Gu Yun!!"
"As expected, fame is not undeserved; you truly are a Lecherous Scoundrel. You, fellow, are the complete opposite of my good-for-nothing younger brother!"
Shen Jingshu slapped away Gu Yun's mischievous hand, glared at him with angry Phoenix Eyes, and quickly straightened her collar, covering the exposed skin once more.
However, the lingering blush on her fair cheeks added a touch of vitality to her cold anger.
"Eldest Miss Shen is much more pleasing to look at when she's like this."
Gu Yun said shamelessly.
"Stop being so glib here."
Shen Jingshu snorted coldly, resuming her distant and aloof posture, her snow-white neck raised like an arrogant peacock. But in front of Gu Yun, it seemed to lack a bit of conviction.
"So now you know: even after doing so many ridiculous things, those Clan Elders still spoil Shen Jingzhou."
"In this environment, the next Patriarch of the Shen Family must be him!"
"I don't stand a chance."
Speaking of this matter, even the proud Shen Jingshu felt a wave of powerlessness.
"Heh heh, that's not necessarily true."
Gu Yun chuckled softly.
"You are not a member of my Shen Family; perhaps you don't know the intricacies involved."
"How could I not know? It seems Shen Jingzhou's status in the Shen Family is roughly the same as mine in the Gu Family."
"I am the one who can empathize the most, so of course, we can understand each other."
Gu Yun looked completely justified.
Shen Jingshu rolled her eyes at Gu Yun, speechless.
Fine, fine, you're all Young Masters.
As far as she knew, Qin Qing霜 of the Qin Family seemed to receive the same treatment.
So, she was the only one with such a miserable fate.
Heaven is unfair.
"Since you can empathize, why would you say such childish things? Actually, I also suspect that the Shen Family Clan Elders dabbling in the Power of Calamity is also paving the way for Shen Jingzhou. We are all just stepping stones."
"But what if... the Emperor's Son of your Shen Family... was replaced?"
"Replaced??!!"
"How is that possible? Who would dare do such a thing in the Shen Family?"
Gu Yun's words were shocking, and Shen Jingshu was clearly stunned.
"I'm just giving an example, you don't need to worry too much about it."
"What if it becomes a breakthrough point in the near future? You never know, right?"
A moment of silence fell in the small room. Finally, Shen Jingshu responded with a twitching mouth: "I understand what you mean, and my mood is quite calm now. Young Master Gu, can you please stop smoothing?"
"Oh, I'm used to it. It was just a reflex."
"You know, I'm just a common person. I spend my days accompanied by beauties and have no grand ambitions."
Gu Yun said nonchalantly.
Shen Jingshu just looked at him quietly: "If you want her, I can give Miss Lianxing to you."
"I said I was more interested in you."
"I can also be yours, but it has to wait until later."
"At least after I have re-established a firm footing in the Shen Family. Right now, I can't let them detect any anomaly."
Shen Jingshu looked intensely at Gu Yun, as if the subject of her words was not herself.
"Oh? You made such an important decision so hastily?"
"Is it important?"
"Perhaps it is to you, but for me..."
Shen Jingshu gave a cold smile: "I've never had any illusions since childhood."
"Being able to struggle now is already the best choice."
A moment of silence fell over the scene. Finally, Gu Yun raised Shen Jingshu's hand, and the two lightly slapped palms: "Excellent, the transaction is complete!"
"Eldest Miss Shen must remember what she said today. I am a person who hates it most when people go back on their word."
Shen Jingshu looked at his lazy appearance, feeling both annoyed and amused, yet her heart inexplicably felt a little calmer.
"Don't worry, it will happen as you wish sooner or later!"
She straightened her appearance, once again transforming into the cold and aloof Noblewoman of the Shen Family.
"One more thing."
"Go ahead?"
"Chunxiang Tower's intelligence network spans the Three Thousand Dao Domains. I need you to help me investigate a piece of information."
"It concerns... Dragon Tendons!"
...Outside the window, the night deepened.
Moon Pity Star paced at the door, occasionally pressing her ear against it, but the room was unusually quiet, causing her anxiety.
"Miss won't be in trouble, will she? They all say that Gu Yun is a Lustful Fiend. Miss is so cold and noble; even I find it hard to resist her charm. Will that Pervert do anything harmful to her?"
"What should I do? What is the best course of action?"
Just then, a creaking sound was heard, and the room door opened.
Moon Pity Star immediately rushed forward: "Miss, you're finally out! Are you alright? Xing'er was worried sick."
She threw herself into the person's arms, but suddenly her expression froze. Wait, it felt a little hard.
"What's going on? Before even entering the sect, Miss Lianxing is already thinking of throwing herself into my arms?"
A teasing voice sounded. Moon Pity Star felt her waist being encircled. She stiffly raised her eyes and saw Gu Yun's handsome face.
"W-why is it you? Where is Miss? What did you do to her?!"
Gathering her courage, the Courtesan Miss delivered a soul-searching question.
"She didn't do anything to me."
Shen Jingshu's cold words came through, and the virtuous figure followed closely behind Gu Yun.
Moon Pity Star was delighted, but still couldn't break free, so she spoke first: "That's wonderful, Miss! Look at him, quickly save me!"
"Lianxing, since His Highness Gu Yun likes you so much, you should follow him from now on."
Her hopeful heart was splashed with a basin of cold water.
Moon Pity Star never dreamed her Miss would say such a thing. She widened her beautiful eyes in disbelief, her voice tinged with a sob: "Miss! Wh-what did you say? Do you not want Lianxing anymore?"
"Lianxing, haven't you always enjoyed literary pursuits? You won't make greater progress by staying by my side."
"And this person is the true author of the "Tang Song Poetry Collection". Following him is your best destination."
Shen Jingshu's voice was cold, and a hint of reluctance still flashed in her eyes, mixed with a trace of determination.
She finally looked at Gu Yun: "I will keep an eye out for the matter of the Dragon Tendons. If I find them, I will inform you immediately."
"Then I thank Eldest Miss Shen."
Shen Jingshu left directly, leaving Moon Pity Star standing alone as if struck by lightning.
Just then, a figure suddenly appeared: "What Dragon Tendons? Gu Yun, you are becoming more and more presumptuous! How dare you even target the Dragon Race? I won't join you in this recklessness; that could be life-threatening."