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Chapter 290 Brother-in-law, save me!

The Shengjing Post Station has been unusually busy these past few days, as goods are constantly circulating in Qingyun Tianxia amidst the exchange of gifts.

Ji You emerged from the Wulu Trading Company amidst the morning mist, dressed in white, and waited in line for a long time before finally receiving her goods.

Qiu Zhong sent several jars of wine, all brewed by farmers in Fengzhou.

After the inventory was completed, Ji You waved his hand and put it into his storage gourd. He then traveled to Kuang Cheng's residence, where he saw Kuang Cheng writing couplets for the new era.

Ji You stood aside and glanced at it, noticing a perfectly matched couplet.

Reading history by the pine-shaded window, I am always mindful of the joys and sorrows of the world.

While brewing tea in Meiwu, one should not forget the rise and fall of the nation.

Ji You knew that this was written by Kuang Cheng for himself.

His life is much better now than before, a world of difference compared to when he was in Yuyang County. This couplet is a reminder to himself not to forget to be prepared for danger even in times of peace.

Kuang Cheng stopped writing and looked up: "Brother Ji, you've arrived?"

Ji You nodded: "Well written. Even if you weren't in the Imperial Academy anymore, you could still make a living selling calligraphy and paintings."

"Thank you for your kind words, Brother Ji. Shall I write one for you as well?"

"Sure, write it down. Looks, talent, whatever topic you choose, but forget about gentlemen and sages, I'm not worthy of them."

Kuang Cheng picked up his pen again, pondered for a long time before carefully putting pen to paper, and then quickly wrote two lines of large characters.

The harem was filled with three wives and four concubines, a scene of bustling activity.

Many children surround her knees, bustling and lively.

Ji You remained silent for a long time after reading it, then looked up at Kuang Cheng and felt that the kid was mocking her.

After he returned from here yesterday, he kissed the young master of Lingjian Mountain until evening, almost making the girl taller by half a head. Then Yan Shuyi said it was getting late and got up to go back, not caring about his life or death at all, which is why he couldn't get a good night's sleep.

Many daughters and sons surround her knees, bustling and lively, tsk tsk.

Ji You took out some wine from his storage gourd: "Old Qiu sent these over, I'll save two jars for you."

"I live alone, two jars are a bit too much..."

"Not much, goodbye."

"Hey? Brother Ji, why are you leaving in such a hurry?"

"Go back and cultivate!"

"?"

After leaving the wine, Ji You drifted out and then returned to Wulu Trading Company.

The shop assistants had been given a few days off, and the courtyard was now deserted. He lit a fire in the tea pavilion and then sat cross-legged in meditation.

Afterwards, he cleared his mind and began to absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.

Ji You had guessed before that spiritual energy was a universal substance that could exist in any form, and now, due to the weather, the spiritual energy absorbed into her body also carried a cold chill.

As this spiritual energy flowed into his body along with his shattered spiritual essence, it immediately ignited into a raging fire under his mind.

The scorching flames began to burn through every inch of his body, causing him to tremble all over and feel pain deep in his bones.

The last time he broke through a major barrier in his physical body was at the sacred site of the ancient sages, where the spiritual energy was abundant, and his physical improvement was truly rapid.

However, after returning from it, the concentration of spiritual energy in the outside world was not enough to support his intense burning.

Body refinement is no easier than enlightenment, because Ji You felt the process was prolonged during his several breakthroughs in the sacred land of the sages. First, there were three levels, then five, then seven, and now he has probably reached the ninth level.

With the blessing of the sacred land of the ancestors, the fifth and seventh levels did not take Ji You too much time, but now the ninth level is progressing very slowly. Only now has he touched the first barrier.

This is also why he couldn't beat Yan Shuyi, because in terms of the division of enlightenment realm, he hadn't even reached the initial stage.

Ji You clenched his fists, his body surging with energy, and sweat began to appear on his forehead.

Yan Shuyi brought Ding Yao and Zhuo Wanqiu over for a free meal, and they once again witnessed his cultivation process.

"Young Master's cultivation time is longer than before; it's already past 11 AM."

"The new year is approaching. I've seen many disciples of the Heavenly Academy suspend their cultivation these past few days to go down the mountain to meet with friends. Why have you suddenly become so diligent, young master?"

Listening to Ding Yao and Zhuo Wanqiu's conversation, the aloof little appraiser clenched his fists, remembering how he had wanted to carry him back to his room yesterday.

This guy wants to beat me and make me have his baby...

As the new year approached, Shengjing City began to become increasingly lively.

Every household hangs paper lanterns, and the East and West Markets begin planning the lantern festival stalls. Stalls filled with winter wine also begin to appear on the main street.

The lively little appraiser at home was getting restless, but instead of saying anything, he had Ding Yao coax Ji You into taking them out to the street.

In the bustling East and West markets, vendors were working hard to sell their wares amidst the surging crowds.

Ji You led three veiled girls through the long street, bought some nice-looking but useless things, and then went to the second floor of Zuixianlou Restaurant, where they found a private room to sit down.

Yan Shu could use the Spirit Mirror to erase the three people's traces to avoid exposing their identities and causing a commotion, but it would still be inconvenient for everyday conversations, so finding a private room would be better.

You get what you pay for. Although the private rooms on the second floor are expensive, they offer a much wider view than the crowded lobby.

Whether it's singing and dancing or instrumental performances, you can see it all.

After the four sat down, they ordered some tea and snacks. Before they were all served, Yuan Chen rushed over.

After coming up, I drank a cup of tea, grabbed a piece of mung bean cake, and ran back down. I struggled through the crowded front hall and squeezed my way to the front of the stage below.

He has already figured out the program schedules of all the major teahouses and restaurants in Shengjing, and knows that the storytelling program is coming soon. He sits in the front row for the most direct and impactful experience.

Ji You had been busy cultivating these past few days and hadn't had time for Yuan Chen. Seeing him in such a hurry, she couldn't help but ask, "What have you been busy with lately, Yuan Chen?"

Yan Shuyi put down her teacup, raised her eyes and looked at him: "Yuan Chen has not been able to control the sacred artifact very smoothly, so I gave him a wisp of the sacred artifact's essence, and he has been refining that wisp of the sacred artifact's essence these past few days."

"The origin of the sacred artifact?"

"It is used for testing. If he is not rejected by the source of the sacred artifact, then he can wield the sacred artifact. And after observing for the past few days, Yuan Chen should not be rejected."

Ji You opened his mouth: "Then why has he had such a bad time on Dan Mountain?"

Yan Shuyi's expression turned serious: "Perhaps Yuan Chen really didn't work hard enough, so Yuan Caiwei was very angry, which is why Yuan Chen has had a miserable few days and can only sneak out to listen to stories for a while."

"Will giving you a wisp of the sacred artifact's essence have any effect?"

Yan Shu also sensed a hint of concern, but instead did the opposite, adopting the dignity of a judge and turning his gaze cold: "A mere disciple of the Heavenly Academy is meddling in other people's business."

Ji You looked up at Ding Yao and Zhuo Wanqiu: "Turn your heads away, don't ruin the image of your Master of Appraisal in your hearts."

Little Appraiser: "?"

Ding Yao and Zhuo Wanqiu didn't dare to be negligent and immediately turned around, thinking to themselves that their high and mighty judge was about to get a spanking again.

Sure enough, as soon as the two had this thought, a "snap" sounded behind them, along with the sound of whistling sword energy blowing their robes.

When the two turned around again, they found their master looking at them with a murderous expression. They couldn't help but purse their lips, thinking to themselves that their master only knew how to scare people with his aura, and actually couldn't bring himself to do it.

After a while, Yan Shuyi, who had been wielding sword energy for some time, was fed a piece of pastry and couldn't help but speak softly.

"If you want to know, I can tell you. It doesn't matter whether there is more or less primordial power, but it is connected to my spiritual mirror. If it is taken by someone with bad intentions, it may cause trouble."

"Did Yuan Caiwei ask you for this?"

"She was so worried that I came up with this idea."

"It seems that although you sisters bicker from time to time, you actually have a pretty good relationship."

After he finished speaking, the private room fell silent.

Looking at Yan Shuyi's menacing expression, Ji You thought to himself that he had acted rashly.

In the past, when people talked about sisters, they really meant sisters. But now, in Yan Shuyi's eyes, the word "sister" means "to steal a man."

However, despite his undiminished jealousy, the arrogant ghost still risked giving Yuan Chen a wisp of the sacred artifact's essence.

This was partly because she was inherently proud and felt that no one could surpass her, and partly because of her relationship with the Yuan siblings.

On the other hand, he also felt that Yuan Caiwei seemed to be a bit elusive, only showing up for dinner every day and always carrying the smell of her class.

However, the young appraiser thought that his sister's matter had offended him, which made him feel that it was inappropriate to ask again.

At the same time, a commotion suddenly broke out downstairs.

Three or four people dressed in black with their hair in buns came down from the second floor and began to clear a passageway leading to the front desk from the crowd.

There were many pushing and shoving incidents during the incident, which led to some discontent.

Afterwards, several young masters and ladies from noble families, dressed in fine clothes, came down from upstairs, carrying wine cups brimming with spiritual energy, and approached Yuan Chen.

As the new year approached, many aristocratic families came to visit the Nishan Heavenly Academy. In addition, those who had come earlier to participate in the Immortal Appreciation Gathering and Snow Appreciation Gathering were also present. Cultivators could be seen everywhere.

Among those who came downstairs were several young masters from the Zhu family of Liangzhou, Miss Xu from the Xu family of Qingzhou who was affiliated with Shanhaige, the son-in-law of the Miao family of Yuzhou, and the younger generation of the former imperial family, the Li family. They had all been invited by prominent families in the capital to drink and make merry with their friends.

Someone saw Yuan Chen upstairs and confirmed that he was a direct disciple of the Dan Sect, so they immediately became restless.

Just like Liu Junchi before them, what they were thinking about was the spare pills that the Pill Sect had brought with them when they delivered the pills this year.

These kinds of pills are usually bought up by powerful and influential families after the pills are transported, and ordinary family scions rarely get to see them.

However, the direct disciples of the Dan Sect naturally have the right to choose who to give the medicine to, and today is a rare opportunity for them.

"This front hall is so crowded and chaotic. Young Master Yuan is of noble status, why don't you come upstairs with us for a drink?"

"Who are you?" Yuan Chen looked at them, completely bewildered.

The Zhu family members bowed slightly and said, "Young Master Yuan doesn't know us yet, but we are all interested in making your acquaintance."

Upon hearing this, Yuan Chen immediately waved his hand and said, "Thank you all for your kindness, but this place is fine."

“If Young Master Yuan wishes to see a performance, our private box also features singing and dancing; there’s no need to squeeze in here.”

"I don't watch song and dance performances. What's so interesting about that kind of hip-swaying and swaying?"

He came here to listen to storytelling; he wasn't interested in singing or dancing.

Upon hearing his refusal, several people nearby couldn't help but gently step forward and grab his arm.

It's rare to meet a direct disciple of the Dan Sect, and now that we have, it's impossible for him to be dismissed with just a few words.

This behavior was a little rude, but it was common knowledge in Qingyun that alchemists had no combat power. Although he was reluctant, as long as he was invited up and apologized, a few drinks later, they might become friends in a drunken stupor.

There's an old saying in Qingyun: "No fight, no friendship."

However, they were unaware of Yuan Chen's determination to listen to audiobooks, and were immediately pulled away.

Then several daughters of prominent families stepped forward and began to entangle with him, instantly drawing the attention of everyone around.

"Who is that person? How come he is so popular?"

"A direct disciple of the Dan Sect."

"Why would a direct disciple of the Dan Sect be here?"

"Those who came to deliver pills to the Heavenly Academy have been here for several days now."

"No wonder those scions of noble families were so enthusiastic. But they've already started to get involved...aren't they afraid of offending someone?"

"Let alone the direct disciples of the Dan Sect, even ordinary alchemists in the upper five realms are extremely rare to see. There's no chance to make enemies with them. Besides, you can't hit a smiling face. After going up there and having a few drinks, you'll get to know them. Such an opportunity is truly rare."

But at that moment, Yuan Chen, unable to resist them, suddenly shouted "Brother-in-law!" instantly silencing the entire room.

A private room on the east side of the second floor opened its door, and Ji You walked out, looking down with her eyes lowered.

Yuan Chen cried out, "Brother-in-law, some strangers kept trying to drag me away!"

Ji You frowned slightly and looked at the young noblemen who were holding Yuan Chen: "Are you doing this because you want to die?"

Many of the private rooms on the second floor opened their windows and couldn't help but look at Ji You because of the word "brother-in-law".

Among them were disciples from the Heavenly Academy who were sitting idly, Lu Qingqiu who was receiving guests with her uncles and elders, Princess Zhao Yunyue of Chang Le who was wearing a flowing fairy dress, and Liu Junchi, whom the Prince Chong had chosen for her.

In fact, those Zhu family members and Xu family members below were all guests invited by Zhao Yunyue.

Zhao Yunyue was the one who caught a glimpse of Yuan Chen in the crowd. When she heard that the young men from the noble families she was hosting wanted to invite Yuan Chen up, she raised her hand in agreement, wanting to get to know him.

But she didn't expect that the Zhu family members would act somewhat coercively because the other party had no fighting ability. What was even more unexpected was that Ji You, who hadn't shown up for a long time, was also there.

At this moment, the smiles of the scions from the noble families who had invited him vanished, their brows furrowed, and the man who had been holding Yuan Chen's arm slowly lowered his hand.

Seeing this, Yuan Chen pushed them away and then ran upstairs.

This is a trivial matter. If both parties are willing, it's a perfect match. If you invite me but I'm unwilling, it won't necessarily lead to enmity. It's not a big deal.

As the disciple of the Pill Sect rushed past, the disciples of the Heavenly Academy sitting on the south side of the second floor fell silent.

Like Ji You, they belonged to the same immortal sect, and some of them were even Ji You's senior brothers and sisters. They had been sitting in seclusion in the deep mountains for many years, and their cultivation had actually been increasing.

But Qingyun Tianxia only remembers those disciples personally taught by the Palace Master.

Logically speaking, Ji You should be just like them, or even stronger because of his background. But in reality, every time someone else appears, or even just has a name, it's enough to force many people to back down.

In addition, there is the attitude of direct transmission from the Dan Sect.

Countless people in Qingyun Tianxia wanted to befriend the Dan Sect, let alone its direct disciples. In the past few days, many people have tried to intercept the pills from them as before, but they have been unable to find them.

Who else could summon the personal disciple of the Dan Sect at will, like Ji You?

In the almost diagonally opposite private room, Liu Junchi watched Zhao Yunyue's figure gradually emerge from the window, his face darkening.

He had known Zhao Yunyue for over two years, during which time he had tried every means to win her over, but she had never given him any response.

Although Zhao Yunyue didn't say it, he actually knew that the reason lay with Ji You.

My junior sister Yun Yue once took the initiative to cultivate with Ji You, but was rejected by Ji You. So she vowed to find someone stronger than Ji You and trample him underfoot.

But now that Zhao Yunyue is so resistant to him, it's almost as if she's saying he's inferior to Ji You.

"These Zhu family members and Xu family members are all a bunch of good-for-nothings."

Hearing his cold words, Zhao Yunyue couldn't help but come back to her senses: "The rumors from some time ago have already made many people feel that Ji You's combat strength is unusual. Their choice not to take action may not be wrong."

Upon hearing this, Liu Junchi raised his eyes and said, "There are many reasons why Elder Fang is unwilling to take action against Ji You. Perhaps Ji You has received the favor of some influential figures, or perhaps the Heavenly Academy does not want its disciples to die in the academy. But this does not necessarily mean that Ji You is unfathomable."

"Where did you hear these things from?"

"It's not something I heard from others; it's just that you and I are both cultivators, so how could we not know the difficulty of cultivation?"

Zhao Yunyue frowned slightly after hearing this: "I thought you had heard some rumors."

Liu Junchi put down his teacup: "Knowing the hardships of cultivation, one can understand how absurd the rumors are. There is no need for other evidence."

In fact, similar discussions were also common in the other dozen or so private rooms.

They were unaware of the Night's Watch's existence, and judging by the difficulty of their own training, they felt that other reasons were more reasonable.

Although Elder Fang is old and frail, with little lifespan left, and his cultivation level is far from his peak, he is still a powerful figure in the Boundless Realm. Even a starved camel is bigger than a horse; he is not someone that just anyone can easily take advantage of.

However, these things were ultimately insignificant to them.

In their view, no matter what Ji You was like, it was ultimately none of their business.

So they continued their previous conversation, talking about spiritual practice, business, and so on.

Meanwhile, the young masters from noble families who had gone to the front hall to invite Yuan Chen but were driven away by Ji You had returned to Zhao Yunyue's private room, muttering something about how it was not advisable to fight with the disciples in front of the Heavenly Academy.

Another group of people, who knew which private room Yuan Chen was in, were holding their drinks and hesitating whether to go over and exchange a few pleasantries.

Just as everyone was lost in thought, a series of crackling sounds suddenly came from the hall downstairs.

Because the hall was quiet after what had just happened, the sound was particularly jarring.

Everyone couldn't help but look over at the sound, and saw a furtive figure standing in the front hall. It seemed that he had been walking in too much of a hurry and had accidentally bumped into a teapot on the table, causing the teapot to scatter and the cups to overturn.

When people saw his face, many of them couldn't help but be slightly taken aback.

"Isn't that Fang Jincheng?"

"What is he doing...?"

Those in Zhao Yunyue's private room couldn't help but look in the direction of the sound and saw Fang Jincheng trembling all over, a look of bewilderment flashing in his eyes.

Rumors circulated in the capital that Fang Jincheng had used Peng Yu's situation to cause trouble for Ji You, but was instead imprisoned in a mountain abyss by Elder Fang.

Although the truth of the first half is hard to discern, many people know that he was indeed imprisoned in the mountains, because after that, many people never saw Fang Jincheng again.

However, with the new year approaching, the city is bustling with singing and dancing, the aroma of wine, and lively atmosphere, making it impossible for young people to sit still.

Therefore, many people know that this prodigy, who has a powerful patriarch behind him, has secretly left the pass to seek pleasure several times.

But many people are unaware that he is in this building today, and they don't know what he is doing.

At this moment, Fang Jincheng, who had knocked over the teapot and made a noise, looked terrified and glanced at the private room where Ji You was. Then he stumbled and rushed out of the building, as if he were facing a great disaster.

In the side hall where he came out, several disciples of the Heavenly Academy also ran out. Seeing that there was no movement in the private room, they hurriedly ran out of the Drunken Immortal Pavilion.

Upon seeing this, those who had planned to visit Yuan Chen suddenly retreated.

Those who remained in the private room, including Liu Junchi, who was trying to persuade Zhao Yunyue not to believe the rumors, all fell silent.

Fang Jincheng, who had secretly come out to seek pleasure, was frightened away not far from the Heavenly Academy, where the Grand Master of Wujiang Realm was in charge.

(Ask for monthly ticket)

(End of this chapter)