Starting from the imperial palace guards, his clones spread all over the world.

Chapter 713 The Woman with a Fake Name
The night was as dark as ink, and the streets and alleys of Hanzhou City appeared deep and quiet under the sparse lights.

The carriage Liang Jin rode in was not luxurious, but it was exceptionally sturdy and stable. The wheels rolled over the bluestone road, making a rhythmic rumbling sound that carried far in the empty night.

Bao Rui rode his docile pony, diligently leading the way, occasionally turning back to check if the carriage was following, his face beaming with barely suppressed excitement and flattery.

Before long, the carriage slowly came to a stop in front of a mansion.

Although it cannot be presumptuously called "Baofu" (宝府), the facade of this "Baofu" is indeed quite grand.

The vermilion gate, with its gleaming brass rings, and the bright lights within the high walls, clearly indicated that the owner had gone to great lengths for tonight.

As Liang Jin stepped off the carriage, the main gate of the mansion swung open, and two rows of servants who had been waiting inside bowed in unison, their voices loud and clear.
"Welcome, Your Excellency!"

The ostentatious display was almost noisy, drawing the attention of some neighbors and late-night travelers.

This was exactly the effect Bao Rui wanted. He wanted to make a big fuss and let everyone in Hanzhou City know that he, Bao Huazi, was now someone who could get the Marquis of Zhenxi to come to him!

Once this news spreads, even if he holds no official position, everyone in Hanzhou City will look up to him and treat him with deference.

Liang Jin's gaze swept calmly over the ostentatious welcoming scene, seeing right through Bao Rui's little scheme.

He didn't care.

In the Western Desert, he was the law, the ultimate authority, holding the power of life and death.

If Bao Rui can present him with a "great gift" that satisfies him today, he wouldn't mind letting this scoundrel get some glory.

But if this so-called "spirit mine" is a scam, or if there is another motive, then this seemingly grand mansion will be a ruin by this time tomorrow, disappearing into the sandstorm along with its owner.

Bao Rui was so excited that he was almost at a loss for what to do. He personally led the way, bowing very low and with a fawning smile on his face, as he led Liang Jin into the living room of the house.

The living room was lavishly decorated with mahogany furniture, precious porcelain, and thick Western Region carpets on the floor.

The banquet was already prepared, with a dazzling array of delicacies.

In the small courtyard in front of the hall, the traditional Chinese music troupe was already in place. Several graceful dancers, dressed in thin gauze costumes, waited quietly in the early spring chill, ready to perform.

Liang Jin walked straight to the head seat and sat down. He casually glanced around and saw that most of the guests present were Bao Rui's family members and children. They were all dressed smartly, but they could not hide their unease and awe. There were no outsiders of any importance.

Clearly, Baorui wanted to confine the glory of "climbing the social ladder" to its own inner circle as much as possible.

With Liang Jin symbolically raising his glass, the banquet officially began.

The music of string and wind instruments begins, dancers dart about, and wine cups are clinked.

Liang Jin was too lazy to talk to the Bao family, so he remained silent.

He had no interest in music, dance, or food, and even when he occasionally picked up a glass of wine, he didn't drink it.

Bao Rui is a shrewd person; how could he not see that Liang Jin was not interested?

He knew he couldn't wait any longer, even before his family members had come forward to offer him a toast after only one round of drinks.

He hurriedly got up, carrying a rather old-looking sandalwood box that had been prepared beforehand, and ran to Liang Jin's side, his face showing an eager smile as if he wanted to claim credit:

"My lord! My dear father, my lord! I am about to present you with the first great gift!"

He carefully placed the wooden box on the table in front of Liang Jin, as if he were holding some rare treasure.

"This is it—a clue about that spirit mine!"

Liang Jin's originally indifferent eyes finally showed a slight ripple.

He put down his wine glass and his gaze fell on the wooden box.

Bao Rui took a deep breath and gently opened the box.

Inside lay a dark-colored sheepskin scroll with some signs of decay along the edges.

Time has left its deep marks on it, making it look extremely fragile.

Liang Jin stretched out his slender fingers and carefully took out the parchment scroll, then slowly unfolded it on the table.

The movements were gentle, as if afraid that if too much force was used, this ancient vessel would shatter into pieces.

The parchment was fully unrolled, revealing a finely drawn topographical map, though the lines were somewhat blurred.

Liang Jin's eyes quickly swept across the map; he was already intimately familiar with the mountains and geography of the Western Desert.

"This is...Dry Dragon Gorge?"

His deep voice rang out, carrying a hint of confirmation.

Hanlong Gorge is located on the northern foot of Yumen Mountain in the western desert.

The Yumen Mountain area is indeed a place in the western desert where jade mines are abundant.

Upon hearing this, Bao Rui's face immediately lit up with admiration, and he gave a thumbs up:
"Your Excellency truly possesses keen insight and understands the universe perfectly! Indeed, this is the Dry Dragon Gorge!"

He hurriedly stepped forward, extended his chubby finger, and precisely pointed to a slightly conspicuous red dot marked with cinnabar on the map.

"My lord, look! This is it! According to this map, the entrance to the spirit mine is hidden right here!"

Then, Bao Rui lowered his voice and began to recount the origin of the map.

It turns out that this map belonged to Bao Rui's former master, the former lord of Hanzhou City.

Originally, Hanzhou City was nominally jointly governed by the Wuliang Mingwang Sect, the Daxueshan Sect, and the Xingmohai Sect. However, the three sects did not trust each other, so the city lord of Hanzhou City was always nominated by the local prominent families.

To some extent, everything within Hanzhou City belongs to the city's management.

Apart from the city, everything else was controlled by the three major factions.

The original city lord was merely a product of negotiation among the three major factions to maintain a balance of power.

Before that, Bao Rui was a hanger-on of the city lord and had once been the city lord's confidant.

As for the map of the spirit mine, Bao Rui had no idea where the city lord got it.

All he knew was that one day, the city lord was in high spirits, as if he had encountered a great joy.

Bao Rui later learned that the city lord had obtained the map of the spirit mine.

However, after obtaining the map, the city lord was not entirely happy. Instead, he became anxious and worried, constantly fearing its loss.

The feeling was as if he had acquired a fortune that could easily bring disaster, but he was reluctant to part with it, yet dared not let others know about it.

He had a mountain of treasures to his name, yet he was caught in a dilemma between greed and fear.

Bao Rui also knew that the city lord had sent people to check the spirit mine, and afterwards he had all the people he sent out killed.

People like Bao Rui naturally wouldn't have the guts to get involved in such a major event.

After that, Qingyi Tower took control of Hanzhou City, and the three major sects were either destroyed, retreated, or submitted under the strong influence of Qingyi Tower.

The city lord committed suicide in fear the day before he took over the Green Robe Tower.

With the death of the city lord, the servants in the mansion scattered like monkeys fleeing a fallen tree.

Meanwhile, some people of low character immediately set their sights on the various treasures in the city lord's mansion and began to scramble for and divide them up.

Bao Rui naturally joined the scramble immediately, and the first thing he grabbed was this map.

After listening, Liang Jin's lips curled into a smile that was neither a smile nor a frown:

"Baorui, you did a great job."

This Bao Rui was exactly as he expected. As soon as his original master died, he immediately offered the original master's treasures to his new master.

He really is a treacherous person who betrays his master for personal gain.

However, Liang Jin was well-versed in the art of managing subordinates; when he used petty people well, they were sometimes more effective than gentlemen.

As long as one always holds absolute power and can bestow irresistible favors and intimidation, such a villain will become the most "loyal" dog.

The next moment, Liang Jin's smile vanished instantly, and his tone turned icy cold, like the chilling wind of a night in the Western Desert:

"I will personally inspect this spirit mine."

His gaze was like a knife, piercing straight into Bao Rui's heart:
"But you must remember that my time is of utmost value. If it turns out to be nothing but a fabrication... the cost of making me come all this way for nothing would be something your entire Bao family couldn't afford."

Upon hearing this, Bao Rui shuddered, knelt down with a thud, and kowtowed repeatedly, promising:

"Your Excellency is wise!"

"Even if I had ten thousand lives, I would never dare to deceive you, Lord Marquis!"

He certainly believed that the spirit mine was real.

He had gone there alone to confirm that there was indeed an abandoned mine, and that there were indeed many special jade stones inside the mine.

Bao Rui certainly didn't know what kind of jade it was, but he believed it must be a spirit ore.

After all, the former city lord had sent people to verify it. If the spirit mine was fake, then the former city lord wouldn't have killed all those who confirmed it.

Seeing Bao Rui's frightened appearance, Liang Jin remained noncommittal, simply saying:

"Get up."

Bao Rui felt as if he had been granted a pardon. He shakily got up, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, and put on a fawning smile again.

"My lord, we can set off at any time to verify the spirit ore."

He then changed the subject, his tone becoming mysterious again:
"However, I have a second great gift to offer to Your Excellency! I guarantee it will satisfy you!"

As he spoke, he clapped his hands lightly.

The beaded curtain on the inside of the living room swayed slightly, and a woman slowly walked out.

She wore a light blue flowing dress with a trailing hem that rippled as she walked.

Her dark, cloud-like hair was styled into an elegant updo, adorned with a kingfisher feather hairpin that swayed gently with her steps, shimmering with iridescent light.

Her face was extremely beautiful, with skin as white as snow, eyebrows like distant mountains, eyes like autumn water, a delicate nose, and lips as red as cinnabar; she was truly a beauty.

The only regret is that time has left a few faint lines at the corners of her eyes, making her look nearly thirty, but adding a touch of mature charm.

Liang Jin frowned slightly, his tone carrying a hint of impatience:
“A beautiful woman?” “Baorui, if this is all the ‘gift’ you’re talking about, then don’t waste my time.”

"Quickly present the remaining gifts, and then immediately follow me to verify the spirit mine."

Bao Rui was slightly taken aback upon hearing this.

He had already found out that the Marquis of Zhenxi was surrounded by beautiful women and indulged in debauchery day and night, so how could he not be moved by such a stunning beauty?
This reaction was completely different from what he had expected.

But he reacted quickly, immediately regaining his composure and saying seriously:
"My lord, please calm down! Ordinary women are naturally not worthy of your attention."

"But this... Senior Su is not just about looks. She is a true martial arts master!"

"I have been paying attention to the fact that the Marquis's mansion has been actively recruiting talented people recently. I happen to have a past relationship with Senior Su and know that she has always been eager to serve the Marquis. That is why I am here today to recommend her."

"Senior Su has long admired the Marquis. If he could be recruited into your ranks, he would surely become a great help to the Marquis!"

Upon hearing this, Liang Jin's lips curled into a disdainful sneer.

master?

His gaze swept over the woman again. Her breathing was steady, her steps were ordinary, and there was no sign of internal energy flowing through her body. She was clearly an ordinary person who did not know martial arts.

Was Bao Rui deceived, or is he scheming for something else?
However, just as he scoffed inwardly, the thought had barely formed in his mind—

A sudden change occurred!

Without warning, the woman named Su Yumo suddenly exuded a clear and powerful martial arts aura!
The aura was condensed and profound, like an undercurrent hidden beneath the deep sea, suddenly surging to the surface—it was clearly at the level of a third-grade martial artist!

Liang Jin's pupils suddenly contracted, and his body, which had been lazily leaning back in the chair, abruptly sat up straight!

A glint flashed in his eyes as he looked at the woman, who still wore a gentle smile and stood gracefully.

"How could this be so..."

A surge of emotions welled up within him:
"How could you conceal your presence to this extent right under my nose?!"

In an instant, he understood.

This woman must have cultivated some extremely advanced technique for concealing her aura, similar to his "Hidden Dragon in the Abyss," or even more exquisite!

Only when she realized that she had been underestimating herself did she deliberately release a trace of her aura to prove her worth.

This finally piqued Liang Jin's interest.

He naturally wouldn't give a pretty face to a vase that's all show and no substance.

However, a woman who possesses both stunning beauty and the strength of a third-rank martial artist has a completely different value.

In particular, third-rank martial artists are pillars of strength wherever they are, and can indeed greatly enhance the high-end combat power of the Green Robe Pavilion.

at this time.

The woman had gracefully walked to within five steps of Liang Jin, and gave a dignified bow. Her movements were elegant and composed, and her voice was clear and melodious.
"This humble woman, Su Yumo, greets Your Excellency!"

Su Yumo?
Liang Jin quickly searched his memory and confirmed that he had never heard of this name among the well-known experts in the Western Desert and the surrounding areas.

Moreover, judging from their accent and attire, they were clearly not from the Kingdom of Skhari or the Black Dragon Dynasty.

"Judging from your accent, you don't sound like a local from the Western Desert."

Liang Jin asked calmly, his tone indifferent.

At the same time, with a slight thought, his consciousness connected to the system's [Thousand-Mile Tracking] function, and he entered the three words "Su Yumo" into the search bar.

The next moment, several dots lit up on the [Thousand Mile Tracking] map, each representing a person named "Su Yumo" and her location information.

however--

Liang Jin's brows furrowed imperceptibly.

None of the "Su Yumo" figures shown on the map were near him!
The closest one to Hanzhou City is 300 miles away, and the image it displays is completely different from the stunning woman in front of us!
"It seems... they're using a fake name."

Liang Jin's sneer intensified, and his vigilance grew stronger.

As his status and power grew, he attracted not only sycophants but also countless people with various motives who wanted to exploit or scheme against him.

The woman in front of me, who doesn't even dare to give her real name, doesn't use the proper recruitment channels of the Qingyi Pavilion. Instead, she uses a scoundrel like Bao Rui to get close to me. Her motives are definitely not simple!

Even at this moment, Liang Jin's gaze towards Bao Rui carried a hint of scrutiny.

Did this guy really meet this "expert" by chance, or was he already bribed, with the spirit mine map being bait to lure him into a trap?
Liang Jin couldn't help but recall Li Xueqing, the woman who had also deceived him with a false name and disguise.

However, Liang Jin believed that the person in front of him could not be Li Xueqing.

Li Xueqing possessed an aloof and sharp temperament, unlike Su Yumo who had the alluring charm to seduce men.

at this time.

Su Yumo seemed completely oblivious to Liang Jin's inner turmoil. She smiled slightly and offered an explanation:
"Your Excellency is wise."

"This woman is originally from Fuyao County, Yinzhou, Daqian. However, she was harmed by villains in her hometown and got involved in a disaster. Unfortunately, she was wanted by the Six Doors and could not stay in the Central Plains. She had no choice but to flee to this western border region."

She spoke earnestly, portraying herself as a fallen master who was forced into a corner and seeking refuge.

"I have long heard that the Protector-General of the Western Desert and the Marquis of Zhenxi have broad minds, welcome talents from all directions, and do not care about their background. I have come here to seek refuge with you, and I am willing to serve you like a dog or a horse."

"Please, Lord Marquis,... take me in!"

She not only revealed her place of origin but also pointed out her "identity" as a wanted person by the Six Doors, seemingly being honest and revealing all her secrets.

If Liang Jin sends people to investigate based on this clue, it seems easy to verify.

But since Liang Jin already knew that even her name was fake, why would he believe such a seemingly reasonable explanation?
He was certain that even if they did investigate, what they would ultimately find would be meticulously crafted, flawless false information.

Liang Jin's mind raced.

A third-rank martial artist, if harboring ill intentions, can be extremely destructive.

If we refuse her on the spot and drive her away, it would be like releasing a tiger back into the mountains, turning her from the light into the shadows, which would only make her more dangerous.

Perhaps... we should go with the flow and keep her by our side, placing her under our surveillance.

This is a good opportunity to slowly investigate her true identity and purpose, and see who is trying to harm us.

If she truly harbors malicious intentions, then Liang Jin will personally send her on her way.

Thinking of this, Liang Jin showed a look of being persuaded.

He spread his hands, leaned forward slightly, and spoke in a slightly frivolous tone typical of someone in a superior position:

"I see. People from the martial world inevitably face some difficulties."

"I am indeed eager to find talented people, but as for the Six Doors of the Great Qian Dynasty... their reach cannot extend to my Western Desert."

He abruptly changed the subject, his gaze falling on Su Yumo's beautiful face with a hint of amusement:
"Miss Su, come here and have a drink with me."

"As long as you can keep me happy, not only will I take you in, but you will also enjoy wealth and honor."

However, Su Yumo stood still, completely motionless.

Her gentle smile remained unchanged, but her voice carried an undeniable firmness:

"Please forgive me, Lord Marquis."

"I, a humble woman, have joined your ranks and am willing to serve you with my sword and martial arts skills, and to establish myself through my own abilities."

“But he never deigned to, nor was he willing to, use his looks and charm to serve others.”

"This is my principle, and I hope Your Excellency will understand."

Upon hearing this, Liang Jin let out a cold snort.

Playing hard to get? Feigning aloofness?
He has seen this kind of method many times.

He didn't insist any further, casually gesturing to an empty table nearby:
"In that case, sit down and have a drink."

This time, Su Yumo did not refuse, and bowed slightly in greeting:
"Thank you, Lord Marquis!"

After speaking, she walked calmly behind the table, sat down gracefully, and maintained a dignified posture, keeping her eyes straight ahead.

Throughout the entire process, Bao Rui didn't dare to breathe loudly, nervously watching the conversation between the two.

On one side was the Marquis of Zhenxi, who held the power of life and death, and on the other side was an unfathomable third-rank martial artist. Neither of them could be offended by him.

Seeing that the two sides seemed to have reached a delicate balance, he secretly breathed a sigh of relief and put on a smile again.

He leaned closer to Liang Jin and asked cautiously:
"My lord, are you satisfied with these first two major gifts?"

Before Liang Jin could answer, he put on that mysterious expression again and lowered his voice:

"However, I have prepared a third great gift for you, My Lordship! This is the real surprise I've prepared for you... the grand finale!"

Liang Jin glanced at him and said indifferently:
"Stop keeping me in suspense, just show it to me."

Bao Rui waved his hands repeatedly, a sly look on his face suggesting that the time was not yet right.

"My lord, weren't you in a hurry to verify the authenticity of that spirit ore?"

He pointed to the pitch-black night sky outside the door:
"This third great gift is not in my humble abode, but... on the road!"

"If we set off now, at breakneck speed, you won't even need to wait until midnight to see this wonderful gift! I guarantee you won't have a wasted trip!"

Liang Jin's gaze slowly moved from the ancient sheepskin map on the table to the face of Su Yumo, who was sitting quietly drinking and exuding a charming aura, and finally settled on Bao Rui's fat face, which was full of flattery and mystery.

A fleeting, icy chill flashed in the depths of his eyes, like an undercurrent passing through a dark pool.

However, a seemingly pleasant and expectant smile slowly spread across his face, his voice steady and carrying an undeniable determination:
"it is good!"

"In that case, what are you waiting for?"

"Leave now!"

(End of this chapter)