Chapter 3, The Reckless and Unrestrained Qiu Ma (Part 2)

Upon closer inspection, one would find that this renowned dandy from Yujing possesses a decent appearance, with well-defined features and a resolute profile. Unfortunately, all of this is overshadowed by a lazy demeanor that suggests he has not awakened for several days, leaving him devoid of any charm. Instead, what stands out most is his pale and lackluster complexion, with pronounced dark circles under his eyes, which, when combined with his reputation, raises suspicions of excessive indulgence in wine and pleasure.

A slender man on the right replied respectfully: "The boarding location is by the Xianying Bridge in the southeast of Yujing District. If we go there now, it will be just in time for the scheduled appointment"

During the day, this stretch of embankment is particularly quiet, while on the other side of the architectural complex lies the bustling city streets, further highlighting the tranquility of this place that turns day and night upside down.

On the other side of the tea house, it is still quiet, with only Fu Mingxuan and the shopkeeper.

The only girl present was also the youngest, and upon hearing this, she exclaimed in surprise: "In such a small and shabby place, is there really someone who can detect the Master Brother's talisman array from a distance?"

Qin Jiang holds a prominent position at the Guanfeng Pavilion and is capable of recognizing many notable individuals, so he must have seen someone who should not be here.

On the left side of the tea pavilion is a restaurant of modest grade, but it enjoys a large flow of customers due to its location, and it has three stories. The third floor consists entirely of private dining rooms, and at this time, which is not during meal hours, there are hardly any patrons in the private rooms, while the fourth room on the right is also vacant

The young man on the horse was not affected by the rapid galloping and sudden stops; he sat in a relaxed and casual manner, with the reins loosely resting on his knees from top to bottom, as if he were sitting in his own living room

Yan lazily raised her hand in court, scratched the back of her neck, and then looked towards the pier, only to be taken aback, her expression instantly darkening.

The man on the left was quite lively, and immediately teased her, saying: "Which one is that? What difference does it make? The way of wind and moon is also one of the three thousand paths, clearly written in the classics of the Dao"

In mid-air, his deep crimson robe still billowed high, then slowly descended, as if an everlasting flame.

Four young men and women were seated in the room, all of them strikingly attractive, exuding an indescribable aura in their every gesture. Their attire and the items they carried were understated yet refined, easily recognizable to those with discerning taste as the offspring of prestigious families. Sitting in this humble little room, one could not help but think of the phrase "a humble abode that shines with brilliance".

The sunlight shines on the white stone pavement, casting a faint rainbow glow. The long willow branches sway gently in the breeze, softly brushing against the cliffs and the horse path

It is known that Yan Kaiting's recent fervent pursuit of Yi Lanzhou has already stirred up quite a commotion throughout the city.

The Yunmeng steed lives up to its name as a divine horse; coming to an abrupt stop at such high speed, it shows no sign of strain, and even stretches its neck leisurely to let out a snort.

The girl clearly had strong objections to the place they were going, her charming lips curved into a downward arc, and her slightly chubby cheeks were puffed up, giving her a delicate and innocent appearance reminiscent of a half-opened gardenia.

This magic array is not considered a high-level technique, as it lacks the ability to conceal oneself. It resembles more of a signboard, indicating to the outside world a desire not to be disturbed. Of course, this is sufficient for ordinary people; common cultivators will not notice it unless they approach the door, as they would be unable to perceive it from more than ten meters away.

The private room of this inn, apart from being quiet, has little else to commend it. The furnishings are simple to the point of being shabby. This room is no exception; the earthen walls are roughly coated with a layer of white plaster, devoid of any decoration. In the center of the room stands a square table for eight, accompanied by matching round chairs, styled after the high-end version of the "Yao Tai" from Qingzhou, though the quality of the wood used is significantly inferior.

With Fu Mingxuan's cultivation, the environment within a certain radius was entirely under his perception. Initially, when he surveyed the surroundings, he did not detect any anomalies. However, since Qin Jiang mentioned it, there must be something.

The stretch of water located at the southeast of the urban area, near the Xianying Bridge, is the most expansive, and the calm inner river is most suitable for operating sightseeing boats. Over the years, this area, along with the surrounding urban districts, has converged to form the gentle and enchanting realm of fireworks.

How could this happen! The well-known Li Liang, also known as Brother Li, holds a certain status and minor prestige among the companions in Yan's court. Today, he was the one who facilitated the appointment with the courtesan Yilan Zhou, and with such a blunder occurring, he is the most anxious of all.

"In the Flower Temple, if we are going to discuss matters, why meet in a place like the Flower Boat? It is filled with superficial people, is there anything worth seeing? They really take that... that... as their legitimate business!"

At this moment, the group of blue-clad knights, along with their companions and attendants, rushed over with great momentum. Upon seeing the completely empty pier, everyone displayed a variety of expressions, changing from one to another, resembling a canvas that had been altered in color.

Fu Mingxuan revealed a hint of surprise and smiled, saying: "So this place has been taken over by Jingu Garden. Please do me a favor and let Lu Li know that I will visit him another day"

A figure in a flowing red garment appeared as if drifting down from the clouds, suddenly stopping at the entrance of the pier.

The characteristics of the magic array are quite distinct, and it is evident that the user did not intend to conceal their identity. Fu Mingxuan's consciousness stirred, and he knocked and entered. Indeed, a consciousness emerged from within the magic array. In a moment of contact between the two consciousnesses, they mutually understood each other's identities.

At this moment, the entire third floor of the restaurant is devoid of customers, not even a single waiter is present. However, upon receiving a hint, he began to pay close attention and discovered that the room was not entirely empty; there was a soundproof and breath-sealing magical array in operation.

A short-statured person next to him shrank his neck and asked, "Brother Li, is it past the time?"

This is an artificial waterway. At the beginning of the city's establishment, this canal was constructed to draw water from the Dahuang River into the city. It serves as an important component of the city’s defensive array and is also used for the daily needs of urban life

As the two were laughing and joking, they looked up to see the leading young man had already walked out of the door, and they quickly hurried to catch up.

In Yujing City, there flows a ribbon of azure water, winding its way through the city like a jade belt around the waist of a beautiful woman

He held a white porcelain teacup in his hand, yet he never brought it to his lips. After entering the room, he spoke very little, listening to the three junior brothers and sisters chatting. Suddenly, he looked up and said: "We've been discovered, let's go"

The shopkeeper readily agreed, respectfully seeing Mingxuan off at the door. After straightening his back, he couldn't help but rub his forehead and muttered to himself: "What on earth is happening today? Could it be that Yujing City is about to undergo a change?"

The sound of hooves shattered the tranquility

The two junior disciples, who were accustomed to following him without question, immediately stood up without a second thought

The young man did not answer, but only asked: "Is it time yet?"

The shopkeeper did not expect Fu Mingxuan to be so courteous, and could no longer pretend to be ignorant. He quickly jumped up and bowed, saying: "Master Fu, this business truly falls under the name of Jingu Garden. You have been on good terms with Master Lu for many years. If I were to still take your money for such a trivial matter, it would be difficult for me to explain when I return."

Shangzuo is a young man, tall and handsome, with broad shoulders and a straight waist, exuding an air of calm confidence that is undeniable. This is the kind of authority possessed only by someone who has long been in a position of power and holds significant authority.

A young man with a long and thin face shouted, "What is going on! Where are the people from Yilan Boat!"

Fu Mingxuan's thoughts stirred, and his consciousness swept over once again

The Xianying Bridge, named as a bridge, is actually a fixed wharf. With its soaring eaves and long corridors, adorned with a dazzling array of lanterns, it winds and extends along the water's edge. All the flower boats in the city gather here to welcome and send off guests. By nightfall, even the air seems to be filled with an enchanting atmosphere

As Yan opened the court, with the sound of Yunmengji's snort, he also let out a small yawn, and in that moment, both the person and the beast exhibited a remarkably similar demeanor

Fu Mingxuan sat at the table, slightly lowering his eyes, as if deep in thought. At that moment, he came back to his senses from his reverie, stood up, walked to the shopkeeper, and said: "Shopkeeper, I apologize for disturbing your business today; the Fu residence will compensate for all losses"