Chapter 7, A Bustling Scene

Wu Xi then nodded slightly: "So it turns out that it cannot be done in front of others, I understand."

Wu Xi took a deep breath and slowly said with his tongue, which was not very adept at speaking Mandarin, "What the Emperor mentioned is probably the sorcery of the Central Plains people; we do not have such things in the southern frontier."

Everyone's eyes were fixed, and Helian Pei leaned forward with all his might, eager to get a closer look.

Heaven and earth bear witness... Zhao Mingji, with a face that, while not stunning enough to astonish the heavens, at least could make ghosts weep and frighten a few children. Yet, it appeared that Minister Jian was holding what seemed to be the most beautiful woman in the world, with an expression on his face that was exceedingly lascivious. It would have been one thing to simply hold her, but he was also audibly groping her, intermittently murmuring phrases like "Little Lotus Moon" and "My dear heart and flesh" without pause.

I could only feel the person in my arms struggling and resisting, which added a few more layers of a bone-deep, soul-stirring charm. I could not help but wish to collapse together with her amidst the warm fragrance of the red gauze spread across the ground, to turn the clouds and rain together as we journey to Wushan.

Zhao Mingji knelt on the ground, tears streaming down his face and snot running from his nose, hoarsely shouting something like "I am ashamed before the sage" and "From now on, how can I show my face"

The woman, resembling the moonlit lotus, suddenly leaned closer, her outer garment half undone, revealing her delicate bosom, with a bright vermilion mole on her heart, her eyes misty, filled with both shyness and resentment, a myriad of emotions swirling within her gaze. Yet upon a second glance, all of that vanished, leaving only a pair of watery apricot-shaped eyes.

There is always a group of people who are like the unloved and neglected, ignored by everyone, relying on no one and being shunned by all. They bite without hesitation, attacking anyone they encounter. Unfortunately, this is exactly the type of person that Lord Zhao is. It is pitiful that Lord Zhao, who usually bites others with his wide-open mouth, strikes accurately and fiercely, skillfully discerning the will of the emperor to scold those who deserve it and to criticize those who should be criticized, is now so enraged that he cannot utter a single coherent word.

Helian Pei nodded and said: "Alright, do you need any auxiliary items?"

Jian Sizong looked up and saw standing there the small lotus moon of the Shengyan Building, unmistakably the person with two taels of flesh, a face full of wrinkles, and a sunken mouth, the Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, Lord Zhao Mingji

At this moment, if no one else speaks up, the situation will escalate. Jian Sizong is the backbone of the Crown Prince's faction. It was only after a moment of being taken aback that Helian Zhao finally stood up and shouted angrily: "Father, under the watchful eyes of all, how can it be acceptable for court officials to be mocked like this?"

Still no one has come to drag this monster out

It turns out that when this man causes a commotion, he is not much better than a woman. Helian Pei's head is almost about to explode from the noise, his face pale.

just shivering incessantly

Wu Xi fixed a steady gaze on him. Not to mention Helian Pei, who was directly targeted by his gaze, even Jing Qi, standing to the side, couldn't help but feel that the child's eyes were quite strange, possessing a particularly sinister quality that made one feel uncomfortable. He was nothing like other children who were so endearing.

In the southern frontier, the great shaman is regarded as their deity. The tribespeople hold the great shaman in high esteem, much like their reverence for the great god of the sun. The shamanic apprentice is seen as the future great shaman, said to be a little messenger from the heavens. They must be carefully selected, leaving their own homes to be raised beside the great shaman from a young age, learning various skills. In the eyes of the tribespeople, this does not diminish their respect simply because he is a child

Originally, Wu Ximo inexplicably approached Jian Sizong, who had just caused him trouble, to speak. Not understanding the situation, the two were separated by a distance of at least two feet, staring at each other for a brief moment. Suddenly, Jian Sizong took two steps back, pointed forward with his hand, but before he could raise it, he lowered it again.

Indeed, one could see that Lord Zhao roared, "Such shameless scoundrels! Such beasts who appear to be virtuous and moral yet are filled with the depravity of male thieves and female prostitutes, mingling in the court, openly insulting the officials of the court. Although I, Zhao Mingji, am not talented, I have at least studied for a few days and know what is called propriety, righteousness, integrity, and honor! I disdain to associate with such treacherous and immoral individuals!"

The beautiful woman took two steps forward and reached out to unfasten her clothing. Jian Sizong was astonished, wondering how such a lewd and shameless woman could be so audacious in broad daylight. Just as he was about to intervene, he suddenly realized that there was no one around; the grand hall was empty, and all the ministers and officials had vanished, leaving only him and this woman.

Wu Xi raised his head, bending his pair of large, dark eyes, and placed his hand on his chest to perform a gesture of greeting. Jian Sizong did not understand his intentions and merely furrowed his brows, scrutinizing him from head to toe.

Jing Qi thought, given this temperament, this person is likely to first elevate this trivial matter to a higher level, and then collide with the pillar

Wu Xi said: "Your Majesty, this is merely a small trick. What I have used is a type of love charm, which we also call 'One Inch Fairy Trace.' Whoever it is cast upon will see the person they truly desire in their heart. In our place, thinking of someone means wanting to be with them, is it not? Why must it lead to death?"

Wuxi's hand, tucked inside his sleeve, clenched tightly, his nails digging straight into his palm. The man, high above, supported his chin with one hand, and his smiling expression made Wuxi feel an indescribable discomfort. He thought that the way that man looked at him was akin to how the nobility gazed at small cats and dogs meant for their amusement.

Helian Pei lightly coughed and said to Wuxi, "This... this Southern Border shaman, this is indeed quite improper. Quickly lift the spell on Lord Jian, will you? I am well aware of the formidable nature of your Southern Border sorcery."

Jian Sizong was so startled by that call that he broke out in a cold sweat, abruptly halting his vigorous movements as he clung to the woman, his eyes wide open

Then a pair of eyes stared unblinkingly at the empty hall ahead, not knowing whom they were looking at, and a blush that seemed somewhat indecent appeared on the face. Subsequently, this person, who was usually the most decorous and traditional, unexpectedly chuckled, drooling at the corners of his mouth, with an extremely lewd gaze, in stark contrast to his usual demeanor of upholding propriety and integrity.

It is said that the factional struggles among the major parties in the court have become a regular spectacle, yet not everyone can find those few like-minded individuals who share their own peculiarities

Jing Qi turned his face away, nearly losing his composure, solely because of the Emperor's words—"Such actions cannot be taken in public."

Wu Xi tilted his head slightly and saw the expressions of A Qilai and the others—his brave clansmen and warriors, standing there humbly, their faces reflecting a silent fury and grief. These men, who had never retreated a step in the face of wild beasts and venomous snakes, now stood there, needing to raise their heads high to see those who were elevated above them

It is as if a surge of blood rushes up from within, recklessly crashing and wanting to break through his body, pouncing on all those who treat him so lightly here

The sounds rose and fell like an explosion, and only then did Helian Pei lightly clear his throat, casting a troubled glance at Wu Xi. He certainly could not truly drag Wu Xi out; after all, although this shaman boy was strange and uncanny, he was still a child. As a dignified ruler of virtue and righteousness, how could he be so petty and narrow-minded as to hold a grudge against a mere child?

Upon a closer look, this place is not a grand hall at all; it is clearly the "Smoke-filled Pavilion" adorned with red gauze curtains.

Only Helian Zhao, although kneeling at this moment, still dared to cry out loudly: "Father Emperor! Father Emperor, Minister Jian is a loyal old minister of our Great Qing, highly esteemed and respected. This... this is forcing him to crash his head against the stone pillar of this grand hall, Father Emperor!"

In fact, Helian Pei is not without his emotional depth; he possesses small virtues and affections. If he were not seated on this dragon throne, he would indeed be considered an interesting person.

Bold!

Zhao Mingji pointed angrily at Jian Sizong, his whole body trembling like sifted flour, his face flushed as if the countless deep wrinkles were about to be smoothed out, yet he was unable to utter a single word for half a day

This furious shout finally awakened everyone. Zhao Mingji's face turned a deep shade of purple, but his small frame, akin to that of a dried salted fish, was unable to push away the suddenly vigorous Jian Sizong. In a flurry of panic, he attempted to resist the angry roar, but the other party showed no reaction, even tearing part of his ceremonial robe.

The grand hall's lofty ceiling seemed to support a small sky, and the dragons on the towering columns appeared alive, spiraling upwards, soaring into the heavens. Everyone's gaze fell upon him from a high vantage point. Wu Xi believed he had always been calm, having learned many things from the great wizard, understanding what is right and what is wrong, yet he had never felt so unable to control himself as he did now

Oh? Then what do you cultivate

I just felt that this little brat was quite wicked, and indeed possesses some sinister tricks. At such a young age, this little poisoner is already so vengeful; they will surely become remarkable in the future

Suddenly felt a sharp pain in the chest, and was forcefully pushed away

Everyone present was left speechless.

Helian Pei was left speechless, and after a long while, he finally said in a daze: "This... where should I even begin? Oh dear, Your Excellency Jian, you have always held feelings for Lord Zhao, but you should not disregard the fact that he has a wife and children!"

Suddenly, Jian Sizong felt that something was amiss, as if something had obscured his vision, leaving everything blurred. He hurriedly took two steps back, a buzzing sound ringing in his ears, and he looked around in confusion, unable to clearly distinguish the person who was so close. Jian Sizong knew in his heart that he had fallen for the trick of this little child, filled with a mix of shock and anger, he pointed at Wu Xi and shouted: "You..."

This... Heren Pei touched his nose and could only speak ambiguously, "The Central Plains is a place of education, which is naturally different from your barbaric lands. Once you settle down, I will naturally assign a teacher to instruct you in reading and principles, and you will understand. Some things... some things cannot be done in public."

Then, Jian Sizong suddenly made an even more terrifying move; he actually reached out and, like a fierce tiger pouncing on its prey, embraced Zhao Mingji, who was beside him

Jing Qi has indeed become interested now. Others may not know, but Jian Sizong is a pivotal figure in the Crown Prince's faction. When he assisted Helian Yi in eliminating those brothers vying for the throne, he witnessed and heard many sordid affairs firsthand. Naturally, he understands what kind of person this Jian Sizong, who speaks so eloquently of benevolence and morality, truly is. It is a pity that in the previous life, he was too preoccupied with open and covert struggles, lacking someone like the Southern Border Shaman, who emerged out of nowhere and acted without concern, to stir up such a commotion.

He stood beside the Emperor, seemingly oblivious, yet inside, he was filled with a surging sense of glee, contemplating how this simple Minister would react once he regained his senses

A single statement struck the hearts of countless individuals present, making it clear that this remnant of the southern border truly deserves to die. At such a young age, harboring malicious thoughts and speaking with sarcasm and irony, it is evident that there are ulterior motives at play

Wu Xi stood up: "Let me perform for His Majesty, shall I?"

Jing Qi was on the verge of falling headfirst down.

Jian Sizong, upon witnessing this scene, felt a surge of warmth in his lower abdomen, as if his three souls and seven spirits had already scattered by more than half. Unable to restrain himself, he reached out and embraced the beauty.

It is an affront to culture, it is an affront to culture

Upon a closer look, the figure before him was no longer the veiled little boy in black, but rather a young woman dressed in peach-colored attire. The young woman smiled at him, revealing a row of pearly teeth, her cheeks flushed with a delicate pink. Her elegantly arched brows were slightly lowered, exuding an indescribable charm, and the corners of her eyes seemed to be hooked, bearing a striking resemblance to the courtesan Xiao He Yue from the ancient Liu Xiang alley.

After all, he is the Son of Heaven. The officials, both civil and military, who were filled with fervor, suddenly halted and knelt down in unison. Wu Xi smiled slightly and also knelt down, yet his back remained straight.

Wu Xi remained silent, and the eyes that were exposed slightly curved, as if smiling. However, Jing Qi could not help but furrow his brows. When Wu Xi turned around, he happened to meet Jing Qi's gaze, which was fixed on him with a frown. It was then that he noticed the inconspicuous child standing beside the emperor of the Central Plains, slightly turned to the side. Nevertheless, Wu Xi merely cast a casual glance at him before turning and taking a couple of steps to stand beside Minister of Rites Jian Sizong.

After the excitement subsided, he indeed charged towards the stone pillar of the main hall. Fortunately, Master Zhao was not young anymore, and unlike Minister Jian, who was still vigorous and full of martial spirit, he did not run very fast and was quickly restrained by several people.

Jing Qi then pondered again, after such a long time of commotion, Jian Sizong should have come to his senses by now, and this time it should be Jian Shangshu who runs into the pillar

Only then did Wu Xi extend a pair of hands, gently tapping a few times with a peculiar rhythm, and let out a cold laugh. Jian Sizong seemed to be struck by a spell, suddenly becoming motionless. Zhao Mingji seized the opportunity, gasping for breath, and with all his might, pushed him away as if fighting for his life

As he stepped back, he happened to see Helian Yi looking up towards the direction of Wuxi. Jing Qi noticed that a flash of murderous intent crossed the face of the composed young man.

Furthermore, the matter of performing witchcraft was indeed stirred up by his own curiosity. Helian Pei could not possibly slap his own face, so he slammed the table forcefully and shouted, "What is all this noise?!"

His Majesty the Emperor's astonishing remarks once again shattered the reason of the civil and military officials who were about to return to their positions, and Jing Qi quietly stepped back two paces, his gaze falling upon that shaman boy

At that moment, a light laugh was heard by the ear, as if the person laughing had not yet fully matured; the voice was somewhat sharp, yet extremely cold, sending a shiver through the heart upon entering the ear

Like a group of helpless little insects at the mercy of others

Jian Sizong's face flushed instantly