The Hulijing Emperor

[menghulijing]

Welcome to my Fic 🦊.

◆◆◆

Formally @thehulijingemperor2

I present to you, the Meng Family Saga.

Jin Guangyao is the emperor of hulijings, kitsunes and Gumihos, and has a large harem. From time to time, there's drama, misadventures, romance and secrets.

Then later in the saga, a New hulijing emperor will be crowned 👑

Can everyone comment, please? It's encouraged.

And tell me about it. No I dont want validation, but it helps me update!

Main @lianfunzun

[menghulijing]

At Jin Manor's Red mansion, Wen Ruohan's residence that was next to Meng Shi's Eternal flower mansion, Wen Ruohan was busy scolding his servants and ordering them around. This however was the norm, and some servants do try to avoid him.

Wen Ruohan: Make that mistake again and I'll whip you!

Y..yes Taifei! *runs*

Xue yang: Yea! Ruoruo wants it perfect! Whatever you did wrong.

Su she: Greetings Wen Taifei. How are you?

Wen Ruohan: Pissed. My servants looked at me in the eye. How dare they?!

Xue yang: For that? Really?

Wen Ruohan: I think I should go back to fierce corpse servants. But something keeps eating them.

Is this the work of my Yao'er?

Mo xuanyu: Correct. He ordered us to feed Bai Renshou weak fierce corpse underlings.

Wen Ruohan: That's incredible! I can't wait to see this Bai Renshou.

Su She: Everything he does is incredible.

In due course, Wen Taifei.

Xue yang: I heard you were crying your eyes out.

Wen Ruohan: You insolent delinquent! How dare you assume that!

I never cry!

Xue yang: *chugs wine, then chokes* Dude what are you drinking!

Wen Ruohan: Expensive wine! Now stop wasting it!

Su she: Wen Taifei, that would be a problem if you're drunk!

Wen Ruohan: Why, Shanshan? Did I ask you to hold back my hair while I throw up?

Anyways, I filtered out the alcohol with my core.

Su she: Like Lan lips.

Xue yang: You taught something to Lan lips?

Wen Ruohan: Hell no!

But I know that taught Yao'er--

Wen Ruohan: That explains a lot

Mo xuanyu: Yao gege invited you to his exhibit.

Wen Ruohan: Delightful! Let's go then! Yao'er knows my worth, and I'm popular among thr Hulijings.

...

Meanwhile, at the exhibit, Qin Huanghou walked alongside Yao Huangdi while admiring various blades.

Yao: Dear, i didn't mean to bore you with swords. Do you want to choose a piece of jewelry from my collection?

Qin su: As if don't have my own collection of bejeweled weaponry already, Yao Huangdi. Plus, I've been around cultivators my whole life. *laughing* They're all very interesting and exquisite. Like no other.

Yao: I'm glad to hear that.

Qin Su: *looks on at small spider-like objects* What's that? It looks like a bladed spider.

Yao: They stick to a victim, suck on their qi, and poison them slowly.

It was rarely used.

Qin su: Ah. Like a parasite then.

Yao: Yup.

Rusong: Can they control the host?

Yao: They can, and they transfer the qi to the owner.

Rusong: Wow!

Jingyi: Pretty badass.

Xiaobao: It looks like a pretty brooch.

Yao: Stay away from them, A-Bao. They're extremely dangerous.

Xiaobao: You don't need to tell me twice. I love being a scholar to be, and a pampered Dianxia. We should leave all that work to the professionals. *opens fan*

Yao: Ah.

Qin Su: Yao Huangdi, may I ask you a favour.

Yao: Tell me, my dear empress.

Qin Su: Let's go to Langya some day, during Sunshot week.

Yao: Ohh Langya! *laughs knowingly* Empress, what is this.

Jingyi: What's special about there?

Rusong: A lot of things. Care to spill the beans, A-niang.

Qin su: That's where I first saw your Diedie, and fell in love with him.

I was captured by the Wens there amd he saved me.

Jingyi: Awwww.

Rusong: So romantic!

A-Qing: I didn't know you were a damsel in distress like Lan guifei.

Yao: your Muqin was very vulnerable back then, as she was the daughter of a rich clan leader.

I saved her.

Qin su: And you did a pretty good job, Huangdi.

Yao: We'll visit Langya. *puts her hands in his* And go on a little date.

Qin su: *blushing* Yes A-Yao.

And make sure to wear your Wen robes.

Yao: Ah, good choice.

Wen Ruohan: Yao'er!

Yao: Fuqin.

Wen Ruohan: I see you have all my stuff on display. Well it's yours now.

Yao: I take good care of it too.

Wen Ruohan: As expected of you!

Rusong: A-Die had just showed us the heavy necklace you gifted him.

Wen Ruohan: Hmm.

Xiaobao: How did your blood sons react?

Wen Ruohan: they were PISSED!

But I told them they would've gotten it if they pleased me.

I only reward people deserving of it.

All of these bring back memories.

I know that they may sell it after I croak.

Hulijing onlooker: Huangdi, San Dianxia, please show me The Assassins dagger.

Yao: Gladly. *wields it*

Wen Ruohan: You have that old thing?! *laughing proudly*

Perfectly polished, though.

Yao: It's my prize possession!

The Assassin's dagger. It's extremely chilling and sharp, and the reflection isn't your own.

It can be a man, woman or elder. Perhaps someone who was killed by it.

I shall give it to A-Song when he becomes the emperor.

Rusong: Ah, thank you. I'll take good care of it.

Yao: I know, dear. This dagger is my war trophy, you know. It's the relic of relics.

Xiaobao: This dagger was originally. owned by an assasin.

Wen Ruohan: Mhm. I snatched it after I beheaded him. Long story.

I think Wen Qing used it or something. I'm not sure. I'm getting a little old.

Jingyi: Yea, you're about one thousand years old now!

Wen Ruohan: Oh my goodness, er Dianxia! I'm not that old.

But in cultivation age, yes.

Yao: I acquired it after he was defeated.

The Lanling Jin clan had conducted a siege.

Wen Ruohan: Yes. And I'm happy that everything ended up in your hands.

Imagine Jin Guangshan touching my priceless Lacquer vase. And my Lacquer ornaments.

Xue yang: What else do you want him to touch, Ruoruo?

Wen Ruohan: Xue yang!!

Yao: Xue chengmei, I don't think Jin Guangshan is his type.

Wen Ruohan: He's a worm. And worms should be crushed.

Yao'er, where's that peacock brother of yours? The one who kicked Wen chao in the crutch.

He resembles his dad.

Rusong: Oh shit. Zish Shushu wouldn't like that last part.

Yao: Aha, Zixuan will be here shortly.

Jingyi: He kicked Wen chao?!

Wen Ruohan: Yea. And the weak little twink ran in crying about it.

I was like, so? If Jin Zixuan kicked you in the crutch, he kicked you in the crutch.

Yao: Oh those were the days! When I had to pretend that I don't know him.

I had to pout and say, Wen Gongzi, Jin Guangshan has a lot of children, and I don't know this one who had kicked you where the sun doesn't shine. No pun intended.

Rusong: Nah, the pun was indeed intended.

Thereafter, Zixuan Huangdi and jinling arrived, and greeted Meng Yao. Both still had their views on Wen Ruohan, but they've always admired Yao Huangdi's collection. Plus they know that he's Meng Shi's concubine now, who was reduced to a puppy.

Zixuan: Foxy, sorry I'm late.

Yao: It's fine! You arrived at the perfect time.

Jinling: Heyy A-Song.

Rusong: What's up?

Jinling: Gonna ask Xiao shushu for one of his artifacts.

Rusong: Try. Apparently I'm going to get a ghost dagger when I become the emperor, so.

Jinling: That's epic!!

Rusong: Are you planning to give it to your concubine or something?

Jinling: pfft. No.

Maybe. If he pleases me.

Xiaobao: Ling ge, I think you're lying.

Jingyi: Definitely is. Mistress Jin is on his knees for Sizhui. Ahahaha.

Jinling: Shut up.

Zixuan: Former Wen Zongzhu, I'm happy that the Mengs have you in their clasp.

Wen Ruohan: *speaking dryly* Well I am happy being a concubine.

Zixuan: My sect and A-yao had defeated you, hence Lanling Jin is superior. And forever will be. A-Ling is the sect leader now, and I don't want you to cause any hindrance.

Wen Ruohan: Yea, don't rub it in.

Yanli: But it's good to see him as a concubine.

A-Xuan, don't be mean. The past is past.

Zixuan: I'm stating facts, A-Li. And the whole idea of Sunshot week is remembering the past, so.

Yanli: You're so dramatic all the time.

Zixuan: Why did you delay my wedding?

Wen Ruohan: Heyy?! I don't meddle with matters of the heart! Even though I'm looking for more concubines for the emperor.

Zixuan: You? Want to find a concubine for A-yao?

It's not one of your former....sect members...right?

Yanli: I had to call of our wedding preparations, dear. Remember, my sect was on fire.

Zixuan: And who made that happen?

Jinling: So it's true then!

Wen Ruohan: Jinling, we were at war.

It wasn't a pillow fight.

Jinling: That's so not cool!

Wen Ruohan: It builds character.

Yao: *laughs nervously* Let's forget about Fuqin for a sec. We must reflect on our resilience and our contribution in ending the Sunnshot campaign.

Zixuan: And the indoctrination. Agh. I don't know what I hated more. Standing in the heat for 10 hours or rolling around in manure.

Wen Ruohan: Relax. It went on for 4 hours.

Zixuan: Oh really?

Jinling: Xiao Shushu.

Yao: A-Ling.

Jinling: I want something from your collection.

Yao: I know you never leave Jing Manor empty handed.

Jinling: Of course not! Because you always spoil me.

Yao: That's right.

Have this ejecting sword case.

It was actually owned by the Meishan Yu sect, but was acquired by Wen Ruohan through Wen Zhuliu.

It can hold two swords and four throwing knives.

Jinling: Thank you so much!

I love you Xiao shushu!!!

Yao: I love you too!

.

Yao: Finished your report?

Zixuan: *Walking with Meng Yao* Yea Ziyao. Finished!

Yao: Oh good. Same here.

You called me Ziyao? All of a sudden.

Zixuan: The Jin sect had officially accepted you after assassinating Wen Ruohan. So you're my Jin Ziyao.

Yao: Aww. Please, don't make me emotional.

Zixuan: I don't know why you had to do so much to win A-Die's favor. He doesn't know the dangers. What if you were killed.

Yao: I'm smart enough not to.

Zixuan: I wish I was a spy instead of a prisoner.

I'm so jealous!

Yao: That's kind of weird about you being jealous of me.

I was a little jealous of you in the beginning. 

Zixuan: You're joking! Really?

Why? I'm just normal. Is it because of my position?

Yao: Yea. But then I realized that trying to please a corrupted man is a waste of time. Jin Guangshan was only using me as a pawn, as well as someone to save face. Everyone knew i was his son.

Zixuan: Very unfortunate.

Yao: Forget this! What was your favorite part of the war?

Zixuan: killing fierce corpses and mapping. You know, I picked up on your Yunping handwriting.

Yao: You did??

Zixuan: Jiang Cheng and I are accustomed to the Yunping script, as Yunmeng are close to Yunping.

Yao: I see. Normally when I write for the Wens, I use the Northwestern Bejiang and Hejian script.

But no one knew I was from Yunping.

Zixuan: That's cool!

Team dimple, on the other hand was telling Shen jiu, the rest of concubines, and a group of people some "information" about the plethora of Wen sect chains, clamps, branding tools and other torture devices 

Xue yang: Yea, these are a few pounds! But it doesn't feel as heavy when Jiggy ties us up.

Shen Jiu: too much info?

Xue yang: You're just jealous.

Su she: *coughs* Yao Huangdi sometimes would test it out. To see if it works.

Mo xuanyu: It's so sexy when he does it.

Su she: very intimate.

Xue yang: I hope Jiggy does it later or something. What should we do to make him chain us up?

Jiang Cheng: Why are you three so shameful in public.

Mo xuanyu: You will never understand team dimple, Jiang cheng!

Shen jiu: I don't think he wants to.

Will you excuse me, I'm going to meet up with the emperors.

They're less....Unhinged.

Xichen: I want A-yao to chain me up too. Just for fun.

Shen Jiu: Lan lips? I thought you were innocent.

Su she: That thing could ever be innocent?

Shi Qingxuan: I think team dimple are just very kinky, and that's ok. They love the emperor.

Didn't you like it when Binghe put you in a jar?

Shen Jiu: *rolls eyes* No.

Mo xuanyu: *excited* Can Yao gege do that to us?!

Shen Jiu: Lan Xichen, how do you do your Lan silencing spell?

Xichen: You know I can't give you my clan secrets.

Shen jiu: Not like I'm going to tell everyone.

But I may take credit. If it falls on my plagiarism day.

Xichen: Your what day?

Shen Jiu: A day where I learn other people's techniques. Don't worry, it isn't large scale cultivation. And it's for research purposes.

Mingfan knows, but he has sworn to secrecy.

~~~

An hour later, in the conference room, Yao Huangdi and Zixuan huangdi took the stage to share their experiences.

Yao:  Like I've said before, I used to change mt handwriting and script a lot, in order to confuse everyone. Yunping script for spying, Northwestern for the Wens, Lanling for the Nies and rest of Lans.

Zewu Jun, what was your pov?

Xichen: Dage had asked me about this Yunpingese person, and I told him that I've only trusted a stranger. He had his doubts but he realized the strangers plans were working.

We came to the conclusion that the person was close to Qishan Wen. Maybe close to Wen Ruohan.

Zixuan: Yes, Nie Mingjue thought that you were with us all this time. I told him I didn't know where Meng Yao was.

Yao: Ah, that's a good thing. I love to hear this.

Xichen: I was shocked to know it was you!

Random Fox spirit onlooker: In conclusion, our Huangdi outsmarted thr entire Jianghu.

You're all nothing without him.

Rusong: Exactly.

I plan to make my own legacy.

Xiaobao: Zewu Jun, I read that your encouraged cultivators. Did you say a speech or something? That would've been epic if you did!

Xichen: I offered my words of wisdom and empowerment. The Wens had oppressed the jianghu for so long, and destroyed our clans.

Xiaobao: Oh waw!! I admire you so much.

Jiang cheng: Solved the Lan book mystery yet? I still believe that the Chief cultivator gremlin ran away with it.

Mo xuanyu: It was Lan Xichen! How dare you accuse Shanshan.

Xue yang: I was imprisoned by a very sexy Jiggy, so I don't know.

Su she: I've only stolen 2 scores. And obviously Lan Xichen would protect the Lan clan books.

It's his sect's stuff.

Xichen: Correct. I fled with most of the books.

Our clan had spread propaganda about Su she after he left. They blamed him for countless things.

Su she: Your sect should get a life.

Yao: They took away A-Huan's heroism. What a shame.

Zixuan: And Jiang cheng's. He saved me in Xuanwu cave!

*winks at him*

Jiang cheng: You were as heavy as a rock.

Zixuan: Because i can't swim, dearie.

To be continued.....

[menghulijing]

Sunshot Week 🔥

Everyone in the Jianghu is celebratingt/commemorating the beginning of Sunshot week in different ways, by having retelling, plays and other forms of media. The new Wen Zongzhu will have his own event to honour the resilience of his sect members. Some being the ones who survived in Yiling, and some being descendants.

(Yes, it's a canon divergence)

Meng Yao is known as the hero of the Sunshot Campaign.

In the Fox spirit and Kongque Empires, it was a huge deal. Probably larger than the Jianghu. Artistic and patriotic Fox spirits take pleasure in honoring their victorious Huangdi, while basking in their own cultures which was inspired by the event. This was such an event, that had an everlasting impact on them.

On the other hand, with the Kongque peacock spirits honour their Zixuan Huangdi as a veteran who was on the literal battlefield fighting against fierce corpses, tending to wounded cultivators and making sure they get food.

There will have a two part exhibition, that will start at the Lacquer Mansion, which is like a museum and library. Then they'll go on to Jing Manor for Yao Huangdi's display of rare Wen artifacts.

~

Lacquer Mansion 📍

The room was packed with onlookers and history enthusiasts, as well as Huangdi's admirers. Xiaobao waits for his cue to start, while Meng Yao and Rusong stand front and center wpeaking to Li Zhaoning and Xuanji~ the caretakers. On the other hand, they had Meng Yao's Wen robes and other clothes on display. Speaking of clothes! Meng Huangdi and Rusong wore Wen inspired styles.

Yao: Good to see this old thing in tip top shape.

Li Zhaoning: As if you wore it yesterday, Huangdi.

Qin Su: You've always looked sexy in it, Huangdi.

Yao: Oh you think?

Qin Su: Very much.

Rusong: How did you do your spy operations? Like smuggle info?

Yao: Easy. After I left the Nie sect, I joined the Wen sect. So when I was based in Yangquan, I wrote down notes, strategies and plans, and hired a loyal  messenger on the spot.

I also redrew mapa from memory.

Xuanji: Huangdi, you are gifted!

Yao: Haha. It's just my eidetic memory at work.

Rusong: Waw!

And that means they wouldn't have known that it's missing or leaked.

Yao: Exactly.

Meng Shi: Very smart and cunning of you, Yao'er! I love it.

You've drawn maps from memory!

Yao: Mhm.

Meng Shi: Aw, I wish I was there to see you at work.

Qin Su: Same. Huangdi is so brilliant.

Who was that person you've trusted so much?

Yao: Just a random vendor. His cousin was a student from the Lan clan.

Qin Su: Ohh.

Rusong: And what about Zewu Jun? You hid him in Yunping.

Yao: Yes. He was injured and I helped him back to health.

Zhaoning: The folk story around here is that Lan Xichen was a peace treaty concubine and Huangdi's secret hostage.

Meng Shi: So he wasn't? What else was he?

Yao: This is always amusing. Does he even qualify as a secret hostage?

Meng Shi: Of course, Yao'er. He's your refugee, and no one else knew.

Yao: *laughing* Well then. He is a secret hostage.

Zhaoning: Despite him not knowing that he's the emperor, Lan Xichen was in love with him. But then when he found out, he knew that he must become a peace treaty between the Meng Dynasty and GusuLan.

Rusong: Is it true that he couldn't do laundry? Ripping everything he put his hands on.

Zhaoning: *Laughing* Yes Taizi! Huangdi had to do the task of doing it for him.

Xuanji: Our precious Huangdi was so hardworking and humble. And he still is.

Rusong: *smiles* And good at doing laundry it seems.

Yao: Hahaha. Don't let them know.

Meng Shi: I taught A-yao everything, guys. Isn't it obvious.

Su she: Like other Lans, Li Zhaoning, Zewu Jun was just being disrespectful.

Xuanji: I believe he's trying to be a damsel in distress.

Rusong: Hm, that's it.

A-Qing: *looks around, then admires a bow and a quiver with two arrows intact.*

Xuanji: Taizifei, the Wens were good at archery, you know?

A-Qing: Interesting! I thought they used swords like the rest of them? But then the Jins and Qins practice archery too!

Xuanji: It wasn't common in night hunts, but the Wens would use it for fun.

A-Qing: Ahh.

I would love to learn some archery one day.

Yuefu Huang, is this your bow?

Yao: A replica. I had to dismantle it to make a torch.

And yes, I'm excellent at it.

A-Qing: What?! A torch?!

Meng Shi: Yao'er?!

Rusong: Misadventures of A-Die.

Yao: I wandered off, trying to meet with someone in secret, then I got left behind.

Meng Shi: Oh my poor baby. Yao'er, you should've been careful.

Yao: I was, A-niang.

Xuanji: I must add this in the records, Huangdi. You're really interesting.

Qin Su:  Did any fox spirits help you with anything?

Yao: They wished to help me, but I told them not to. Cultivators still saw

hulijings as malevolent creatures in which they faught against.

Qin Su: That's tragic. But it was all to save your fox spirits.

Xiaobao: I see!

Rusong: At least they got time to sort of reinvent their culture.

Xiaobao: Mhm! There was a lot of fanfare!

Everyone was going crazy about the fact that their Huangdi is now a spy.

A-Qing: But how didn't they blow his cover by accident. The fox spirit empire is vast!

Xiaobao: Vast or not, they agreed to keep it a secret.

This gave birth to the saying, 'If you run your mouth, Huangdi will fail.' and 'Snitching is like snitching on the emperor himself.'

Nonetheless, they donated funds to their Huangdi to be able to afford necessities.

On the other hand, Gongyi Xiao who accompanied Taihua, looked on at a smokey feather in a wooden case.

Gongyi Xiao: Is this from a dire owl?

How did the hulijings require this?

Zhaoning: Because our Huangdi learnt how to control them, despite being a skill learned by only Wen heirs,

Jinfeng zun.

This is a feather from the the dire owl that was killed by Wangxian. Us Hulijings made sure that we acquired these precious artifacts to make our Huangdi stronger.

Yao: Correct.

I have 6 feathers in my private collection. It says that with the help resentful energy, or any power, one can revive dire owls with a single feather.

Gongyi Xiao: So cool, Huangdi!

A-Qing: Why don't you use them again?

Yao: It may ruin the anesthetic, I believe. And that amount of resentful energy is harmful.

Gongyi Xiao: Dire owls are kind of common where I live as well. But they thrive in Tianlang Jun's territories.

I think he was a fan of Wen Ruohan right before he lost the Sunshot campaign.

Yao: Isn't that so?

Tianlang Jun and Wen Ruohan are known for bickering with each other. It's kinda hilarious that Tianlang Jun initially liked him.

Rusong: He's a disappointed fan.

Meng Shi: They both secretly admire each other, but competing for my favour.

Concubine things.

Taihua: What about the Meng Huangdi Soup?

Xiaobao: The fox spirits were obsessed with eating like him.

Hence they eat soup containing one dumpling and a sprinkle of spring onions.

Xuanji: Well that's a delicacy! My wife's making it later.

Yao: Oh that's lovely to hear! I hope you enjoy. 

.

Afterwards, Xiaobao San Dianxia took the pleasure to analyze fox spirit propaganda drawings! Well. Propaganda for disloyal cultivators and mortals, if any.

Their "fanart" is sketched out with a fibe brush, where only the emperor is colored in, and sometimes Zixuan Huangdi.

Meng Huangdi was always depicted as large, handsome and dashing like the young hero he is, whereas the rest of clan leaders would be ugly or dependant on the emperor's knowledge and expertise. It was actually more comedic than anything else.

Xiaobao: This is one of my favs. When they drew Lan guifei as a concubine.

Meng Shi: What else is he, A-Bao?

Xiaobao: You're right! That's why I love it.

Yao: He looks nice in a dress and flowery hairpins!

*admires*

Rusong: Zewu Jun is definitely more popular than Jiang Guifei. If it was in reverse, then Jiang guifei would've been wearing a dress.

Zhaoning: Exactly. But we still have him in high regards. During the Sunshot campaign, Sandu Shengshou was both on the field fighting, and coming up with strategies with the rest of cultivators.

Not to forget that he was doing all that after the tragic death of his parents  and the burning of some of his sect.

In terms of a concubine, he's a loyal one.

He co patented with two emperors in raising Jinling Dianxia.

Xuanji: In a way, he's also a peace treaty concubine as well.

An alliance between two empires.

Yao: You're quite knowledgeable.

Xuanji: Thank you very much, Huangdi. This is my livelihood after all.

History and research.

Yao: Ah. The Fox Swallowing the Sun.

One of my favourite pieces as well. It is absolutely beautiful.

This piece art in particular, that inspired many textile patterns. "Fox Swallowing the Sun" symbolizes their huangdi ending the Wen reign of terror and further establishing his own empire.

It shows a golden nine tailed fox, whose tails formed gold clouds, while he opens his mouth to swallow the sun.

Zhaoning: But how is Wen Taifei (senior consort) now? Does he have an influence in your court.

Yao: Wen Ruohan spends his time as a concubine without any political power. But he has influences in our familial setting.

Meng Shi: He is now a little puppy in my harem.

Jingyi: Yep. Yeye is a trophy husband now.

Xuanji: As expected of the Mengs, to have him under control. Us Hulijings  actually like Wen Ruohan!

He is Huangdi's father you never had. Plus we hated the cultivation world anyways. Well, before you've merged the worlds together and faught for our protection and image.

Yes, he had tyrannical rage, but at least our Huangdi got the love he deserved.

A-Qing: Did you two plan that stabbing, Yuefu? Since you were close

Yao: Nop, he didn't see it coming.

When I stabbed him from behind, he called said "Yao'er" in a sort of shocked and impressed way.

I've only stabbed his core leaving him powerless and locked him away.

He stayed spiritually crippled for a while, until I took over the Jianghu. Later on, he joined our family.

A-Qing: Epic! But yeye doesn't seem vengeful, which is a good thing.

Oh is he afraid of Nainai?

Yao: He is proud of me for stabbing him and taking over the Jianghu.

A-Qing: That's strange. I would've been pissed! And kind of jealous, to be honest.

Rusong: Yeye is a guy who is obsessed with savage people, who'll do anything to reach their goal.

Imagine technically raising someone who turned out dauntless and powerful.

Meng Shi: Exactly! If I'm prideful, that means Ruoruo is prideful too. And it shows.

A-Qing: Oh!

Yao: He's a complex person.

A-Qing: I just remembered that you have gained popularity and earned your place in the Jin sect after all this!

You literally became popular over night just like me.

Yao: Correct!

Xuanjie: For the fox spirits, Huangdi was always famous. The cultivators had just realized how valuable he is.

....

Later on, The Mengs hosted a rare Wen display in Jing Manor, as planned! Some other onlookers took the opportunity to walk through and admire priceless Wen pieces which were stored in Yao Huangdi's treasure room.

There were weaponry, manuscripts, ceramics, jewelry, chests and boxes.

Yao: A-Song. Do you see this ruby necklace?

Rusong: Mn. That's the heavy one, am I right? The one that you kept joking about almost breaking your neck with.

Yao: Yes, Wen Ruohan had given it to me as a reward and a token of affection.

Rusong: Such a beautiful piece.

Yao: He did it right in front of his own blood sons too.

Rusong: Oh my goodness! I could imagine the look on their faces!

They were probably punching the air.

Yao: Exactly. But Wen Ruohan made it clear that I've pleased him and they haven't, so I deserved the reward.

Xiaobao: He should've been here for the exhibit.

Yao: Agreed. I'm concerned about him.

Jingyi: Yeye must be drinking and thinking about his past.

Yao: Hmm I'll let team dimple check up on his welbeing and escort him here.

Team d.

Su she: Will do, Huangdi.

Xue yang: We'll harass him a little less today!

Mo xuanyu: Why is he so dramatic anyways?! The hulijings adore him.

Yao: He's maybe thinking about his defeat, more than admirers and critics. He was once a feared person.

.

Former Arbiter General of the Sky Faring commission and historian Huaiyen, who was best known for working side by side with Yao Huangdi's grandfather, met Huangdi and offered his respect.

Yao: Gen. Huaiyan. How are you?

Huaiyan: I'm well, Meng Huangdi. You are always concerned about your lowest servants.

Yao: What are you saying? You're almost like family now! And your grandson-in-law and granddaughter are close to my children and A-Qing.

Huaiyan: It's an honour!

I made sure that they offer their service and companionship to the Meng Family.

Yao: That's good.

Former General, shall I show you some weaponry?

Huaiyan: I would love to.

Yao: right this way.

.

To be continued......

[menghulijing]

I might increase my word count 🎉

[menghulijing]

Yaoyu

Head Eunuch Li enters again with the concubine plaque to present to his Huangdi. Meng Huangdi's throne room however had three halls connecting it, and the old, short hulijing Eunuch is just comically throttling down the hallway (with his little legs) and a whisk in his hand. Meng Yao however was done talking to Shen Jiu about somefhing.

Shen Jiu: Here he comes again. *opens fan* Are your eunuchs bored?

Yao: Nop. They're just preoccupied with their emperor's love life.

He knew I slept with Huanghou already.

She Jiu: Those eunuchs are definitely gossiping about you! Shall I whip them for your amusement?

Yao: You don't need to. My eunuchs would never gossip about their emperor.

I also want to keep them in my clasp. Historically, eunuchs seize power and I don't want that to happen. So it's best we treat them nicely.

Shen Jiu: One crucial question. Are they castrated?

Yao: Ew no. That's inhumane, and there will be urine everywhere.

Not in my fragrant palace.

Shen Jiu: Agreed.

Yao: But they still can't have children, and must live as monks.

Xue yang: Jiggy, why don't you just ask us out. You don't need a plaque!

Shen Jiu: No, you're right. He needs a restraining order.

Yao: Certainly not. Xue yang is a gremlin, yes, but he makes me laugh.

Mo xuanyu: Shen Qingqiu! Stop being bitter! This is the time for love and romance.

Shen jiu: Love and romance are the same thi- Nevermind.

Su she: Huangdi, who will you pick this time?

Yao: Soon you'll see, Shanshan.

Eunuch Li: *bows* Huangdi, this mere servant requests you to select a concubine. Again.

This time, I think that team dimple had sabotaged the plaques.

Yao: Not again.

Su she: How dare you accuse us! You old fox!

Mo Xuanyu: W..what proof do you have!

Xue yang: You better stay in your lane, if you know what's good for you.

Eunuch Li: Pardon! Pardon team dimple, but your names are there thrice each!

Mo Xuanyu: Listen. We haven't done anything, ok. We're Yao Huangdi's team dimple and you're not allowed to question us.

Shen Jiu: You three totally did it.

Yao: But without Shanshan. My dear is clueless.

Su she: Exactly Huangdi. And I never lie to you.

Yao: And oh look, it's Shan Liusi's handwriting. Yuyu's maid's. And she wrote with Vermillion instead of ink.

I remembered when you asked her to write a love letter on your behalf while your nail polish was still wet.

Shen Jiu: Someone's caught red handed. And yes. PUN INTENDED!

*opens fan again* deal with it.

Mo xuanyu: My Yao gege is always smart and superior.

Shen Jiu, you'll never understand. Yao gege and I are soulmates because we were intimate on many occasions and I have a statue of him in my room that I constantly make out with! Sometimes I feel like he speaks to me.

Shen Jiu: The....statue?

Mo xuanyu: You're just jealous that you're not on the same wavelength!!!

Shen Jiu: *concerned*

(I wonder if Binghe does the same)

Su she: We should've replaced him with Hua cheng.

Xue yang: Like, who doesn't make out with Jiggy's statue.

Su she: *blushing* Every morning means every morning.

To quote my enemy.

Shen Jiu: Agreed. It heals you. You should quote your enemy incorrectly more often.

Su she: Right.

Yao: *laughs* well there's that. I'm always moved by your infatuation with me.

*looks at the plaque* I choose the statue smooching Mo xuanyu.

Mo Xuanyu: *jumping up and down with glee* Really Yao gege!!!

Omg I think I'm dreaming!! Someone punch me!

Shen Jiu: I thought you'd never ask actually~~

Mo xuanyu: Wait no!! I have to look good for Yao gege.

Yao: You know you guys could ask me out instead of tamper with the plaques.

Su she: Team dimple is just extra, Huangdi.

Yao: Hmm. Nothing new.

Mo xuanyu: We wanted to be called like concubines.

*kisses hand* Anyways, i have to start my 56 step beauty routine. See you later.

Yao: *pats head* see you later, Yuyu.

Shen jiu: A 56 step beauty routine? Are you brushing your insides or something?

Yao: It's nothing new actually.

~~

Later on in the evening, Mo xuanyu arrived at Fangfei Mansion along with maids who brought in wine, snacks and a few items.

Mo xuanyu: Thanks for bringing them in. Now go away. I want Yao gege to myself.

Attendants: Yes Mo guifei.

Mo Xuanyu: Yao gege, I'm here.

Yao: Yuyu, I'm so happy to have you. *nine tails floating in the wind, ad always*

Mo Xuanyu: *kneels and kissss his had* Yao gege.

Yao: My dear Yuyu.

Mo Xuanyu: let me help you with your robe. *takes it off*

Yao: Thank you. *sits* You've brought wine. How delightful. Pour for the two of us, won't you.

Mo Xuanyu: Right away, Yao gege. You know I should've dressed up like a bride and *giggles* act like it's my wedding night.

But then I was like nah. I rather worship you instead.

Yao: *chuckles* Oh I'm so flattered. A-Yu, you don't need to be so elaborate.

But I'm used to you and team Dimple's antics.

Thereafter, the emperor elegantly reclined on his cushioned seat and Mo xuanyu served him some wine.

Mo xuanyu: Here you go, my beloved Yao gege.

Yao: Thank you dear.

Mo xuanyu: *props his head and stared at him*

Yao: Yuyu.

Mo Xuanyu: How are you so perfect. *brushed his hand against Meng Yao's thighs* I'm downing in your dimples and aura.

Yao: *puts down his cup, then lifts Mo xuanyu's chin and glared with golden eyes.* You think I'm perfect?

Mo Xuanyu: a little to perfect, Yao gege. I want to lock you up and have you all to myself.

Yao: Aha, you certainly can't do that. I'm an emperor.

Mo Xuanyu; Yea, that's it. *buries his head in his chest, then tries to undress him some more* Yao gege, i want to kiss your chest.

Yao: How about later, A-Yu.

Mo Xuanyu: Yes Yao gege.

Yao: *caresses his face* so obedient. *strokes his hair*

Mo Xuanyu: *giggling*

My lord!

Yao: Now tell me, how are you so obsessed with me?

Mo xuanyu: You're so kind and hot and always gently. Hella gorgeous!

When I was abused in Mo Manor and had a breakdown, I only wanted you and you alone! You were the only one who showed me love.

Jin Guangshan was a dick.

Yao: Oh poor thing. Yuyu, I'm always by your side.

Mo Xuanyu: And I'm always by yours.

Yao: I wonder what even happened to thr Mo cousins and Mo Manor.

Mo Xuanyu: I just know that I don't want to be there! I want to be next to you.

Yao: Of course. You must be my my side forever.

Anyways, forget the Mos.

Mo xuanyu: Mn. *caresses his dimples, then gave them a kiss* I love you Yao gege.

Yao: I love you too, Yuyu.

Mo Xuanyu: Do you love team dimple? We're a cult, you know. Don't tell the harem

Yao: Obviously i know you're a cult. And yes, i love team dimple dearly. You three are my alter ego.

Mo xuanyu: *sips wine* That's so so good to hear. But if you hated me, I would still love you intensely. *kisses his neck*

Yao: *kisses his forehead* Shall we take things in bed.

Mo Xuanyu: *giggles* I was waiting for you to ask!

Feel free to punish me if I dont please you!

Yao: A-Yu, you and team dimple never fail to please me. *gently wraps his hair around his hand, as he knew that Mo xuanyu loves it*

Mo xuanyu: *flushed red* HUANGDI~ Omg!! I love you so much!

Yao: *walks with him to his bed and puts him there.*

Mo xuanyu: *bites his lips* Yao gege!

Yao: *sits and glares in a smug way*

Mo xuanyu: *props next to him, then unwrapped him like a divine gift.*

Yao: You're mine.

Mo xuanyu: Yes I am, Yao gege! I'm your property!

Yao: No, not property. You're still a person.

Mo xuanyu: Then I'm your devotee, who wishes to worship your body. Alone, and intimate. *locks eyes with his*

Yao: *golden eyes* So be it.

Mo xuanyu: Yao gege.

~~~

Next day, at Jing Manor's drawing room and teahouse, the Mengs, Zixuan Huangdi and Jiang Yanli, as well as some fox spirit officials gathered. The Sunshot Aniversery week is about to start, and Yao Huangdi must finalize the details.

Yao: It's 34 years since the Sunshot campaign ended, so this week must be filled with symbolism. What is Wen Yuan Zongzhu doing on his side?

Su she: Huangdi, Wen Yuan will host his own event in Qishan, but he's definitely

planning to attend one of the events.

Yao: Excellent news. Let him have his separate event.

Xiaobao: Xuan Shushu, you and A-Die are the heroes of the Sunshot Campaign! How are you going to start the celebration?

Zixuan: Foxy and I are supposed to say a speech, then we'll host a banquet and lantern festival.

Yao: But to fill in the week, we'll look at some Wen artifacts and fox spirit historical pieces from that time, and I would put a few rare treasures on display.

Zixuan: We will host the banquet at Jinlintai.

Jinlintai? Or Qishan?

Yao: Jinlintai sounds ideal.

Xiaobao: I guess i have to go shopping with Huaien!

Huaien: Mhm. I would love to spoil you.

Xiaobao: Aww.

Yao: Yes, you all should look your best. We're the Imperial Mengs.

Xiaobao: As you wish.

A-Die, may I host the exhibit. I've learnt a lot about the Sunshot Campaign from the point of view of fox spirits.

Yao: Ahh, you're perfect for the job! Of course you can, A-Bao.

Xiaobao: Thank you.

Yao: A-Song, A-Yi. You'll be by my side, and you can give your piece in the speech.

Rusong and Jingyi: Sure!

Yao: Mn. A-Song, I also want you to co-host with me.

Rusong: I would love to, A-Die.

Qin Su: A-Qing, you'll by your Rusong's side, when he's front aand center. You two will look adorable together!

A-Qing: Of course, Yuemu! I'm always next to my Rusong.

Yao: Everything is set then!

Meng Shi: *enters with Sisi and Tianlang Jun*

She also decided to embrace her grey hair, that was tied in a knot and adorned with gold ornaments (as usual). 

Her hair was more salt and pepper than entirely white.

Meng shi: Yao'er, how's the planning going?

Yao: Smoothly, A-niang.

And I love your new look! You're always the wisest of the wise.

Meng Shi: Aww thank you!

Yao: *kisses her hand in respect*

Sisi: Despite her grey hair, she still looks young.

Qin su: Mhm, you look very timeless!!

Rusong: It really suits you, Nainai.

Xiaobao: Always!

Jingyi: Nainai, I love your new look.

Meng Shi: Thank you, thank you babies.

Tianlang Jun: You deserve all the flattery, A-Shi.

Meng Shi: *smiles*

Rusong: I don't see yeye anywhere.

Yao: Yea, where's Fuqin?

Tianlang Jun: In a dramatic mess. The Sunshot Aniversery is drawing close. He's such a loser.

Meng Shi: This time would naturally be hard for him, but as Tianlang Jun said, he was indeed dramatic about it.

Yesterday, he was coming up with wild ideas like deposing Wen Yuan and putting Rusong to run it.

Rusong: Me??

Jingyi: Yes you!

Rusong: Yeye knows that Sizhui is my friend. I'll never do that to him.

Meng Shi: That's what happens when you're the heir, baby. You fall in everywhere.

Tianlang Jun: Does Ruoruo know what a friend is?

Yao: *laughing* Seems like he's in a crisis. No. I helped Wen Yuan acquire his sect.

Tianlang jun: How dare Ruoruo disobey the emperor. A-Shi, I would never do such a thing you know.

I heard him asking Sisi if he's a piece of meat.

Xiaobao: Oh shit.

Sisi: It's just a phase.

Yao: Yes. It will go away.

A-Niang, Song'er will be co-hosting once again.

Meng Shi: As he should. Song'er is our future Huangdi.

[menghulijing]

Fox spirit matchmaking

♤

The Meng Meeting room 📍~ the stately conference hall where the Mengs meet and discuss their family matters.

Firstly, one of Taihua's selective suitors was here with his family. He's Long Haoren, the future emperor of the BaiLong dragon clan. Being the envoy he is, Meng Rongjiu was the first to meet them.

There's Long Xihui Huangdi, his wife Zhu Huanghou, and their sons, Long Haoren and Long Haoxun (they have more children by the way). The anesthetic of the longs are silky white with turquoise ornaments, whereas they're excellent at manipulating water.

But other than being dragons, they're still cultivators.

After the prospective match, Long Haoren and Taihua would mingle a bit until they're ready to get serious.

Long Xihui: Meng Huangdi. Why have you summoned us all of a sudden?

Haoren: Is Gongzhu back?

Zhu Huanghou: Ren'er! Don't be rude!

Yao: It's fine. Nothing is wrong with eagerness. Hua Gongzhu will arrive in the evening.

Zhu Huanghou: Well that's good.

I would love to see Meng Guifei.

Qin Su: Meng Huanghou to be precise. Huangdi wishes that Taihua becomes the highest ranking concubine.

Zhu Huanghou: Meng Huanghou. Thank you for the correction.

Haoxun: *whispers* Better tell Xin'er to leave. Or was it Yichen?

Haoren: Shh!

Xihui: *clears throat* Like every Taizi, my son also has his concubines.

Yao: Mhm. I believe they're treated well.

Xihui: Of course! Of course! Yes there are a lot of harem drama, but they're still tight knit.

But you haven't explained clearly. Your

Meng Gongzhu is going to be Nuwang. Where would our BaiLong empire stand with the Mengs?

Yao: They'll be allied with us. But must comply to Hua's rules if any.

Haoren: But Huangdi, you want me to listen to my wife? I mean, she's a trophy for me to look at.

Yao: Listening to your wife is the best thing you know. Companionship works wonders.

Zhu Huanghou: Aya, Haoren is still young. And he meant to say that Meng Taizifei is so pretty to admire. He had seen drawings of her already.

Haoxun: I'm more open minded! Don't listen to him, Huangdi.

Yao: *smiles*

Haoren: You're not the heir.

Yao: Long Huangdi, I wanted to tell you that I'm calling off the alliance.

Long Xihui: What? You're calling it off?

Haoren: Did I say or do anything wrong?

Zhu Huanghou: Of course you did! You can't keep your mouth shut!

Meng Shi: Please calm down, Zhu Huanghou. And let the emperor speak.

Yao: It seems like Taihua Gongzhu likes someone else. Well, it's speculated.

Zhu Huanghou: Now who could that be?!

Yao: My daughter is pretty. Obviously she'll have her suitors, and her type.

Haoren: That's so unfair! That's so so unfair!! I will kill that person who took Gongzhu's heart!

Yao: I forbid you!

Long Xihui: *sighs in fustration* Haoren, what kind of behavior is this! Sit down! You're not at home!

Meng Shi: Do you have a family secret you're hiding from us?

Yao: Seimei had told me all about it.

Well, only half.

Zhu Huanghou: *trembling* Huang, he's in contact with Seimei!

We're doomed.

Long Xihui: Well. Obviously my dear.

Meng Huangdi, it's ok if Gongzhu likes someone else.

Our secret is that someone attempted Haoren at birth. Though he survived, he can die or qi deviate at any time.

We're hoping that some harem member produces an heir for him, and end his suffering.

Haoren: A-Die, how am I suffering! I'm perfectly fine!

Yao: Oh my goodness. That's quite tragic.

I'm so sorry.

I don't think that's ideal for Hua.

Or ideal for anyone. Turmoil needs strength.

Zhu Huanghou: Yes, and the harem can be competitive at times. I was just a consort who replaced the actual empress. Poor poor Wei Huanghou.

Yao: Yes. It's a hell of a thing. I'm glad that my harem are just repressed simps.

As speculated, Zhu Huanghou jad probably killed the former empress, and wanted to kill her baby too. Haoxun is Zhu Huanghou's biological son. No one knows that! But Long Xihui only knows half.

Yao: Haoren, though just a teen, I wish you get your justice.

Stay safe, ok.

Haoren: Thanks Huangdi. Now who to marry? Any hot hulijings around?

Yao: Plenty. But you must focus on your health first.

Long Xihui: Thanks for having us, Huangdi. And I know my secret is safe with you.

Yao: Absolutely. Hope we keep in contact.

~~~

A half an hour later, Mingfan enters with Shen Jiu.

Mingfan: Heh...greetings Imperial Mengs.

Shen jiu: Good job at not freaking out. *rolls eyes* Greetings Meng Huangdi. Taihou, and Qin Huanghou. You're looking very gorgeous today.

Mingfan: Do I say the same thing, Shizun?

Shen Jiu: no.

Huangdi, I've told you about Mingfan's fondness for your son. Now here he is, to answer your questions.

Yao: Mingfan, it's so nice to see you.

Mingfan: It's nice to see you too, Huangdi.

Yao: It's always nice to see me. According to my subjects, harem and team dimple.

Almost glorious.

Anyways, you love my son?

Mingfan: Yeaa, I have a crush on him.

And I'm a perfect concubine candidate! I can play the guqin, and do cultivation. Taizi said that he likes me already.

Qin Su: Do you understand Rusong's role? Do you respect him? I don't see you pampering him or falling at his feet.

Mingfan: I'll do that in due course, Huanghou. But honestly I dont know how to be a concubine.

Qin su: Neither does Jiang cheng.

Mingfan: I understand his role entirely!

He's Taizi Dianxia and the Laoling Qin sect leader.

Yao: Ah, you have a lot of understanding.

Good job.

Meng Shi: You're completely different from Yingying. But once Rusong likes you as his concubine and you're willing to learn, then so be it.

Yingying will teach you.

Mingfan: Right after she beats me up.

Meng Shi: Yingying? Aw no! She could never hurt a fly.

Qin Su: She's so refined and poised. Yingying is the sweetest little thing.

Yao: Mn. She's devoted to Song'er. And they make a good pair. Well, it's expected from a student of Shen Jiu.

Mingfan: I'm a student of Shizun too. I promise not to let the Mengs down.

Yao: No need to reassure me.

Mingfan: *kowtows* Thank you Huangdi. May you live long and get grey.

Yao: *laughs* I feel like I'm getting grey already, my dear. But I let my servants dye it.

Mingfan: Aww, Huangdi. You're well pampered.

Yao: As i should be.

Mingfan: Your hat can cover it up.

Yao: *cracks up* Oh really?! You're very smart.

Meng Shi: I believe i should go fully grey! Yes, I'm a goddess, but I would love to embrace greys.

Yao: That's excellent, A-niang. You'll you'll look ethereal and timeless.

Meng Shi: You think?!

Well then. I'll do it soon.

Mingfan, you're a trendsetter

Qin Su: Quite fashionable for Song'er.

Yao: Song'er's harem must have their own image and trends, and you're fitting in well already.

Mingfan: *shy* What did I do? Anyways thank you, Huangdi. You don't need to flatter me.

Yao: You showed me your charm. I hope that you and Song'er get close. And make sure to please him.

You're in fact a concubine.

Mingfan: I feel like I can do anything for him. H..he's so dreamy.

I think he had seduced me. With the Meng effect. He plucked my core with his eyes.

Yao: Oh did he?

Qin Su: So that's what Songsong has been doing.

Meng Shi: My baby is innocent, Mingfan.

Mingfan: *blushing* Of course he is, Taihou.

Yao: You're approved by us. I don't see a reason not to.

Lord Shen, you're amazing.

Shen jiu: Thank you Huangdi. I'll provide the best of the best for you and your family.

Yao: You're such a darling.

Mingfan: So what now?

Yao: I guess you should go to Pine Pavillion and spend time with Rusong.

Mingfan: Hehe, good idea!

Thanks again Huangdi! I'll take your leave.

Yao: *smile* Nice meeting you.

Eunuch Li: Hua Gongzhu and Jinfeng Zun have arrived, Huangdi.

Yao: Oh that's amazing!

Fuying, Xiying. Have the staff prepare food for them at the banquet hall. *stood up*

Fuying: As you wish, Huangdi.

~~~

Later at Pine Pavillion 📍.

Ouyang Zizhen: Well obviously I'm not surprised, Dianxia. Who doesn't think you're hot.

Rusong: I'm quite fond of his simping and flustered behavior.

Like can he relax.

Ning Yingying: He was always a nerd. And he loves to show his dominance by bullying Shizun's students.

All in all, he's still loyal.

Rusong: Hmm. I'll tame him alright.

A-Qing: You already did, Rusong. He's a big simp now.

Rusong: He'll fit in perfectly with you three.

Ouyang Zizhen: Is he a part of team dimple 2.0?

Rusong: *laughing* He can try to be.

Yanqing: Am I part of team dimple 2.0? Dianxia?

Rusong: Technically, everyone who's a part of my court in Pine Pavillion is a part of team d 2.0.

I should have my own style.

Yanqing: Awwwww, Dianxia.

Underneath Meng Huangdi and his court (or inner circle) rather, there's Rusong's. They would listen to and support him, but they all still abide by Huangdi's regime. As Taizi, Rusong was encouraged to make his own links within the Jianghu.

Fortunately, this means that Meng Yao has absolute trust in his son.

Mingfan: *Enters* Dianxia.

Rusong: *smiling* Mingfan! You've met my family! Did they approve of you?

Mingfan: Yes! The Mengs love me.

But they were crazy about you, Shimei.

Ning Yingying: Aw, they mentioned me?

Rusong: Obviously, my dear. You're iconic.

Ning Yingying: *blush*

Ouyang Zizhen: Are you a clan leader?

Did you spend your money on Rusong Taizi Dianxia yet.

Mingfan: What does being a clan leader have to do with anything! And i will definitely spend my money on Dianxia.

Ouyang Zizhen: I rent out restaurants for him, so that he can be comfortable in Baling.

Mingfan: *scoffs* You think you're the only rich concubine.

Ning Yingying: Mingfan, we're all rich.

Rusong: Aha, no need to fight over me.

Even though it's entertaining. You know what. Do it some more.

Mingfan: pfft! I can do that too.

I heard that Baling doesn't have good quality restaurants.

Ouyang Zizhen: Of course there is! Now stop criticizing my beloved sect please!

Ning Yingying: Shizun was right.

Too much testosterone makes them fight.

A-Qing: It makes them more of a simp.

I'm afraid Rusong Dianxia is too sexy for this world.

Ning Yingying: *laughs* he'll cause a riot.

Ouyang Zizhen: At least we can agree on that.

Mingfan: Mn, he has beautiful genes.

Rusong: The way you all flatter me. Mingfan, you should night hunt with us some time.

Mingfan: I would love to, Dianxia! Thank you.

Rusong: No problem.

Your cultivation expertise is always appreciated.

[menghulijing]

Little date in Moling ( Gongyi Xiao and Taihua this time!)

Next day in Jing Manor~

Taihua walks into the drawing room after getting ready. And Gongyi Xiao, who was waiting, took a moment to admire her.

Taihua: Jinfeng zun. Are you ready to leave?

Gongyi Xiao: On your time, Gongzhu.

You look pretty.

Taihua: Thank you.

Rusong: So this is how I would find out, Jinfeng zun.

Gongyi Xiao: I'm so sorry you had to know this way, Dianxia. But I would've told you sooner.

Rusong: well this was pretty soon.

I had already speculated it. Is it true?

Taihua: Song ge. *shy* I've grown fond of Jinfeng, and cherish his company.

Gongyi Xiao: You do?

Taihua: *blushing* Jinfeng zun. We're getting late.

Rusong: Hey, time always waits for us Mengs. It's It's just me.

Spill the tea.

Gongyi Xiao: Dianxia, I wanted to focus on my work and service to you. Having a crush on Gongzhu might strain my relationship with you and hurt her honour.

Rusong: You're very loyal and chivalrous for that, Jinfeng zun. But I think you should pay more attention to my sister.

Taihua: Gongyi Xiao. *smiles*

Is this a dream.

Rusong: Nop. Hua, it's ok to have a crush. You two were already dazzling at my party.

And A-Die and Nainai already picked up.

Taihua: Yea.

Rusong: Gongyi Xiao is always quite respectable.

Taihua: That's why i like him.

He's very friendly and upright. Just like how a clan leader is supposed to be..

Gongyi Xiao: I promise to take care of her, and keep her in mind.

Taihua: So I wasnt always on your mind?

Gongyi Xiao: You are, Gongzhu. I didn't mean it like that.

Taihua: *Laughs* You always have good intentions.

But Song ge, do you like that nerdy Mingfan?

Rusong: Hm, at first it was more platonic. But it seems that I have accidentally seduced him.

Taihua: Haha! I thought he only loves his Shizun.

Rusong: I thought so too.

Guess he was overwhelmed by my allure.

Taihua: Like everyone in your harem.

Rusong: Quite.

Taihua: See you later Song ge.

Rusong: Bye, my dear. Have a good journey, ok?.

Taihua: Will do!

Afterwards, Gongyi Xiao stretched out his hand to help her into the caravan. Then both fond eyes locked for a moment.

Gongyi Xiao: I still can't believe you have a crush on me. Do you really?

Taihua: And what about you? *puts her hand in his* I cherish you.

Gongyi Xiao: I cherish you too.

They were then off on their journey. However, their caravan will soon enter into a teleportation area, which are roads invented by Moling Su to assist in the teleportation of traffic.

Even though they were traveling for an hour and a half, it felt like a day.

Gongyi Xiao: Gongzhu, why would people even want a teleportation road. Do they not fly on their swords?

Taihua: Of course they do. But the teleportation arrays were Su Xiandu's prized project. A-Die made sure to fund it and make it happen.

Gongyi Xiao: Ohh.

That's brilliant.

Taihua: How isn't your sect called Gongyi? Were you adopted? Not that it matters!

I was just asking.

Gongyi Xiao: We don't inherit names like your clans here. So our original surnames are kept.

Taihua: That's so unique. Our clans here are heavily influenced by family. Hence the clan name is strictly given to family members. Their peripherals and guests will keep their name.

Thanks to Wen Mao.

Gongyi Xiao: You're intelligent. Your clans are well structured, but why must they segregate like that. Don't you think it's a little savage?

Taihua: Mnn, maybe. Nobody pays mind. And we must know who's who.

Gongyi Xiao: Didn't Huangdi end classism?

Taihua: Yes. Among rich gentry cultivators and less fortunate. He gave them jobs, protected them, gave them a gentry status, and funded their education. Putting then on the same level as famous cultivators.

You're asking me about a traditional clan structure. It's more hierarchical.

Gongyi Xiao: Ohh. My bad! I got confused.

Taihua: No problem. You'll get the hang. of it.

Gongyi Xiao: You're here to teach me.

Taihua: Absolutely.

Gongyi Xiao: Was there an instance where an outsider took the clan?

Taihua: Rarely. But that's only if there are no surviving family members, or there was an arrangement made among sworn brothers.

~

Moling 📍

Taihua and her guest, Gongyi Xiao, arrived at the Moling Su headquarters where they were heartedly greeted by the Moling Su sect members, Su Minshan and SuYin.

Taihua: Accept my greetings, Su Xiandu.

Gongyi Xiao: *bows*

Su She: Greetings. Make yourselves comfortable.

Taihua: Thank you.

Suyin: We were eagerly waiting for you to arrive! You used the teleportation road right?

Taihua: Yes. And I thought I've arrived swiftly.

Su she: Ah, don't listen to him, Hua.

He was just excited. Overly excited.

Taihua: I see.

Su she: I was also overly excited to welcome you, but I must focus on making you comfortable.

My beloved

Su she: Jinfeng zun, glad to see you. Huangdi had praised you on a few occasions.

Gongyi Xiao: Oh, he did? I'm happy to hear that I was a topic for discussion.

Su she: Huangdi said that you're close friends with Hua and Rusong, so i wasn't surprised to see you.

Gongyi Xiao: I'm really honored.

Hereafter, they all had a seat at the Su conference hall and began their conversation. Taihua Gongzhu however was in her element! She's going to learn about her role. And adding to that, her crush was by her side.

Su She: Our Moling Su own over 35 provinces and 80 districts, 10 subsidiaries and four grand

watchtowers. Our watchtowers are named Lianfang, MengYao, Ziyao and JinZong.

Each of our provinces has magistrates and city lords, who are peripherals of Moling Su or families of our close allies.

Currently, the sect oversees the running of the cities, while we do or cultivation and night hunting.

Taihua: You have so much on your plate. And I find it remarkable that your sect started from a mere subordinate to a well networked powerhouse.

Su she: Thanks to Huangdi of course.

He had helped me generously. And he treats me so well.

I'm the closest to my Huangdi, and I'm his servant. No one else will have that honour.

Taihua: That's amazing. And your loyalty made you a legend.

Su she: *laughs* Me. A legend?!

Don't flatter me.

Hua, if you're our Nuwang, some weight would be lifted off our shoulders. It also falls in line with Huangdi's edict.

He wants all his children to rule some faction of the Jianghu. Taizi becomes emperor and the rest of siblings will have their dominion under him.

Taihua: Understood. Adie had explained to me. I'm honoured to be your Nuwang some day.

But what will I do?

Su she: You're too rule and guide, and make sure everyone gets proper welfare. We will remain as a cultivation sect

Taihua: Ohh. And I hope you remain as powerful.

Su she: I will, Hua. Don't worry. But i don't need power, once I'm close to Huangdi.

Taihua: Aw.

Suyin: Gongzhu, I shall be the median between your court and Moling Su. You can ask me anything, or give me a request.

Taihua: I'll keep you in mind.

Su she: there's a mansion in Moling, that was a gift from Huangdi to Rusong Dianxia. I believe it will be passed to you next.

Taihua: *mischievous* as it should, Su Xiandu.

That would be lovely!

Su she: Yes, Hua Nuwang.

Taihua: Haha, I'm not Nuwang just yet.

Su she: I must practice from now.

Taihua: As you wish.

Now tell me about concubines and court members. I would like more women in my court.

Su she: You can make anyone a concubine. Just like Taizi or any Meng.

Do as you like.

You can have a selection for your harem members, and court members normally take an imperial exam.

Adding to that, your concubines will have the titles Meng Furen and guifei, despite being men, amd your offspring will inherit the Meng surname.

Taihua: Oh how cool!

And my key Wangfu would be Meng Furen too? *winks at Gongyi Xiao*

Su she: Technically, yes.

Gongyi Xiao: *chuckles quietly*

Taihua: Thanks for explaining.

Su she: Please, I insist you to take a tour through our residence after we're done.

I'll tell you about our clan's history after lunch.

Taihua: Sounds perfect.

.

Meanwhile in Jing Manor's shady, outdoor seating area, Rusong sits and sips tea while waiting for Mingfan.

He had requested (probably ordered) Mingfan to meet him and have a discussion.

Mingfan: *nervous* T...T...t...t..

Rusong: Ttttt? Mingfan, relax.

Yanqing: You're just simping over the gorgeous Rusong Taizi. No big deal.

Mingfan: Why are you gaslighting me?

Anyways, Dianxia, you know?! How did you find out?!

Rusong: Shizun! Well, it wasn't no fault of mine. He was talking to A-Die and I happened to be in the room.

*props his head on his hand* So. You think I'm hot?

Mingfan: *avoids eye contact*

Yanqing: Oi, simp! Dianxia asked you a question!

Mingfan: I think you you're very very attractive, Taizi.

Rusong: Ahh. Understood.

Mingfan: And I feel seduced. Shizun says that the Meng effect is real!

Rusong: Seduced? I was listening to you play the guqin. Huh, Yingying maybe flipped when she found out.

Mingfan: Yea, she almost punched me, and she made it clear that I won't be a rank higher than her.

Rusong: Aww. You two are fighting over me already.

Yanqing, am I that hot?

Yanqing: Of course, Dianxia. You're like a beautifully carved Jade.

Mingfan: True.

Rusong: I like you, Mingfan. You'll make a marvelous addition to my harem.

Mingfan: Of course i will make a good concubine.

Anything to please and be around you.

However, I'm not as graceful.

Rusong: I'm sure you'll learn from observation.

Ning Yingying: *enters* Dianxia. *bow*

Rusong: My dear A-Ying. *kisses her cheek*

Ning Yingying: *blushing*

Shixiong, are you trying to steal Dianxia again?!

Mingfan: He had just added me to his harem.

Rusong: Don't worry, Yingying. He will be at a lower rank than you, and he won't replace you.

Ning Yingying: Thanks for reassuring me, Dianxia.

Rusong: *cups face* 

...

Moling 📍.

Meanwhile, Taihua and Gongyi Xiao were still walking through the halls and admiring the art and artifacts on display.

Gongyi Xiao: *softly glares st her* So Gongzhu has a crush on me.

Taihua: Mn. You're my type!

Gongyi Xiao: Well judging from your dad's type, I totally see it.

Taihua: What's that supposed to mean?

Gongyi Xiao: He's surrounded by a harem of clan leaders, also the empress is the daughter of a clan leader.

Taihua: *laughing* Noo it's not because of that!

You're well refined, talented, and a joy to be around! No words can explain how I feel.

Gongyi Xiao: You have the world's cutest dimples.

Taihua: Jinfeng zun. Tell me about your crush.

Gongyi Xiao: I couldn't stop thinking about you.

And I've drawn you before.

Taihua: You have?! I want to see!

Gongyi Xiao: Very soon, Gongzhu.

Taihua: Awww.  

The new couple stopped for a while to just stare into each other's eyes, then they slipped into an empty room and continued their montage. Taihua was completely lost, while Gongyi Xiao hesitated to touch her face affectionately.

Taihua: *Kisses his hand which was frozen in the air* It's alright.

You won't dishonour me, because being loved by you is the greatest honour.

Gongyi Xiao: I feel put on a pedestal.

Gongzhu, I thought it was impossible.

Taihua: It is possible! I really like you, Gongyi Xiao!

Gongyi Xiao: I like you too, Hua. I can call you Hua, right?

Taihua: Please do!

*caresses his face* You look much cuter when you confessed your feelings.

Gongyi Xiao: Oh really?

Taihua: Hm.

Gongyi xiao, do you think we're rushing into a relationship?

Gongyi Xiao: Not at all.

We've only confessed. I guess we should build our relationship by hanging out more.

Taihua: I like that!

I really want to be with you more often.

Gongyi Xiao: *hugs her tightly close to his chest*

Taihua: Xiao. I feel like I'm dreaming.

Gongyi Xiao: Same.

Taihua: Tonight I'll be unable to sleep. Why don't you sneak in?

Gongyi Xiao: Hua darling, what if Su Xiandu spies on us?

Taihua: Nah, that won't happen. I won't let him.

Su Xiandu has better things to do, and his sect members will never.

Gongyi Xiao: Ok then, Nuwang.

We will cuddle.

Taihua: Mn.

[menghulijing]

New ship unlocked!

Pine Pavillion ~

Rusong was in his study, waiting for Ning Yingying to come play the guqin. She normally comes and play, to make him relax after hours of paperwork and reading. All three concubines have different tasks to serve Rusong in Pine Pavillion. A-Qing is his main wife, who does marital duties as well as take care of the mansion and be a hostess. Ning Yingying plays music for him and makes sure he appeased and relaxed. And Ouyang Zizhen is just a loyal companion and cultivation partner.

Unfortunately, Ning Yingying was on her period and can't come play for him, so she sent Mingfan to play the guqin for him in her place.

Anyways, in the meantime, Rusong was talking to Gongyi Xiao.

Rusong: You're doing a good job! But do you still wish to be a cultivation level cloud knight? I don't want you to leave Laoling or Pine Pavillion.

Gongyi Xiao: Actually, Taizi, I was thinking of setting up a base in Laoling. I'll work on some cloud knight stuff for 5 months and then resign. Then I'll be all yours

Rusong: Oh ok. I see.

That will definitely work.

Gongyi Xiao: Anything for my Taizi Dianxia.

(And Hua. I don't want to leave her)

Rusong: Jinfeng zun. I'm sorry for talking to you so harshly. Bai Renshou's identity is a secret, and I can't have people poking their noses in.

Gongyi Xiao: Understood.

I should've remembered my boundaries.

Rusong: It's fine.

Gongyi Xiao: You'll make a firm Huangdi.

Rusong: *chuckles* You think?!

Gongyi Xiao: Certainly.

Rusong: Jinfeng zun.

Gongyi Xiao: Taizi?

Rusong: Do you have a crush on anyone? Anyone you see in my court?

Gongyi Xiao: *startled by the question*

I will tell you very soon. Right now I don't know about my feelings.

Rusong: You look compatible with Hua.

Gongyi Xiao: Oh you think so? Gongzhu is a delight.

Rusong: Mn.

Kohaku: Dianxia, The tea was delivered to Ning Guifei.

Rusong: *smile* Thank you dear.

Gongyi Xiao: Do you have anything else to tell me, Dianxia? Pertaining to work or something.

Rusong: That was all, Jinfeng zun. Thank you.

Gongyi Xiao: *bows*

Rusong: Take care.

Gongyi Xiao: Thank you.

...

Mingfan: *enters with a guqin* Greetings Taizi Dianxia.

Rusong: Mingfan?

Mingfan: Ning Yingying has girl issues, so she told me to play the guqin for you in her place.

Rusong: Aww! How sweet! *opens fan* You've learnt from the best, so I won't doubt your skills.

Mingfan: That's true! Shizun is the best guqin player you can have!

Rusong: Shall we do this in the lounge area? *stood up, then glided elegantly across the room*

Kohaku and Yanqing: *follows him*

Mingfan: Yes Dianxia.

*looks at him* (Huh. Why am I just noticing his beauty. Ning Yingying has good taste.

And he's so polite)

Rusong: Mingfan, are you coming?

Mingfan: Y...yes! Taizi!

Rusong: *reclines and made his fox tails appear* Ah!

Attendants: Taizi, have sone grapes.

Rusong: Thank you!

Mingfan: (everyone worships him. I...I wonder how it's like to be a concubine? I want him to command me.)

Rusong: *glares*

Mingfan: *startled* Ah yes! Guqin! I forgot.

Sorry, Dianxia.

Rusong: Are my tails distracting you?

Mingfan: Not at all. I just zone out sometimes.

Your hulijing features are incomparable.

Rusong: Thank you, Mingfan.

Mingfan: *began to play the guqin*

A-Qing: *enters* Dianxia.

Rusong: My love.

A-Qing: *kisses him deeply, then snuggles in his arms* Why is Mingfan playing for you?

Did you seduce him?

Rusong: I won't do such a thing.

It's his choice whether to be seduced or not. He's filling in for Yingying.

Mingfan: (I do feel seduced)

A-Qing: That's impossible when you're a Meng.

Rusong: Oh isn't that so, my darling wife.

A-Qing: Yup.

Rusong, He's also not a part of team dimple 2.0.

Rusong: *laughing* What?

A-Qing: what?

Mingfan: *blushing*

Rusong: You play marvelously!

Mingfan: *coughs* Of course I do. Thank you, Taizi!

Rusong: Mn.

Attendants: *brushing his fox tails*

Mingfan: What's next, Taizi? Are you relaxed?

Rusong: Yep. Play another song.

And please, stay back for refreshments.

Mingfan: As you wish. *turns red*

Rusong: *glares softly*

Though openly calm, Mingfan was internally flustered. Rusong is dashing and glamorous, and has an imperial aura about him. He's sitting proudly while being attended to by servants and his wife.

Mingfan tries his best not to pull a wrong string, which may ruin the song and cause embarrassment. Rusong may laugh or pity him if that happens and he would get more flustered.

Ahh Ning Yingying is the luckiest person in the world.

Mingfan: *stops playing*

Rusong: *claps* Marvelous again! I'm miced by your music.

Wine or tea?

Mingfan: Pardon?

Rusong: I'll order refreshments for you. What are you drinking? And please, have some roasted duck.

Mingfan: You're too kind, Dianxia.

I'll have some green tea.

Rusong: good choice.

Rusong stands, and his adoring attendants fixed his garments, then he walked over to Mingfan and gave him a pink jade pendant with an Obsidian bead. This immediately made Mingfan's heart race!

Mingfan: (A priceless gift from Taizi! This has never happened before?! Do I bow? Do I kowtow?! Does he love me?!)

Rusong: This is for my dear Yingying. I can feel her love through her music.

Mingfan: For Yingying?!

Rusong: Yes. You played on her behalf.

Mingfan: Ahahahaha! Right! You're right! Of course you're right, because you're Taizi Dianxia. Hehe. The heir. Don't behead me.

Rusong: What's up with you?

Mingfan: Nothing. I'm perfectly fine.

I will deliver this to Shimei.

Rusong: Thank you.

Please, have a seat. Your refreshments are here.

Mingfan: Yes Dianxia.

You're very kind to me.

Rusong: Of course i will be.

~~~~~

A few days later, at Qing Jing Mansion, Shen Jiu's Jing Manor's residence, Mingfan was reading but it seemed like nothing was registering in his brain.

Shen Jiu: *stops and gives him a concerned glare* What is up with you today

Mingfan: I'm normal, Shizun!

Shen Jiu: No you're not. You're staring at your book, just earlier you forgot your sword home before heading to a night hunt.

Mingfan: Nah, Shizun. I was a bit tired these days. That's all.

Shen Jiu: that's unlike you.

Mingfan, tell me the truth. Or else I'll drug you.

Mingfan: Oh no, Shizun! Not the truth serum!

Shen Jiu: Spill then.

Where were you on Tuesday? You were normal a week ago.

Mingfan: I was playing the guqin for Taizi, on the behalf of Ning Shimei.

Shen Jiu: Oh really?!

*closes fan* spill.

Mingfan: Shizun, is the Meng effect real?

Shen Jiu: Obviously, Mingfan. What happened? Which Meng seduced you? Taizi did?

I feel like such a proud parent!

Mingfan: When I played the guqin for him, I became completely infatuated.

Shen Jiu: Wowwww. Well I saw that coming actually.

Ning Yingying: Hold up! I told you to play the guqin for him on my behalf! But you're planning to take my Dianxia away from me?! Shizun!!!

Mingfan: Shimei! I didn't propose to him. And I delivered his pendent!

Ning Yingying: And what else?!! Stop playing innocent!

Mingfan: I just said that he's gorgeous, and he's free to step on me. I would be a concubine without taking your place!

*gasps* The Meng effect!

Ning Yingying: Shixiong!!

Shen Jiu: Oh my god. Someone's in love!

Someone wants to be a concubine

My two students are fighting over Taizi Dianxia! Ahahaha!!! This is too good! Too marvelous!

Mingfan: I think I have a crush.

But i don't want to progress with it. Shi Mei turned me down and laughed in my face. I had a crush on Ning Yingying but she ignored me.

I can't have my heart broken again, and I'm not good at flirting.

Ning Yingying: I just wasn't interested in you, Shixiong. Forget about it.

Shen Jiu: You don't need to flirt. And you shouldn't give up. Give Taizi a chance.

Mingfan: Sometimes i feel rejected by everyone. Sometimes by you.

Shen Jiu: Oh no, Mingfan. I deeply care about you. And I cherish the gifts given to me by your family.

They have some rich tea leaves.

Mingfan: It feels nice hearing that.

But what is wrong with me? Why do I keep falling in love? I'm a cultivator.

Shen Jiu: So what? Cultivators can't fall in love?

You're a man surrounded by gorgeous people. Obviously you'll have a couple crushes.

Mingfan: Mn.

Ning Yingying: Surrounded by my darling Taizi Dianxia. *sniffles*

Shen Jiu: Do you want me to promote you? I have a very high influence in Huangdi's imperial court.

Mingfan: Thank you, Shizun!!

Shen Jiu: I'm so happy for you.

And this shall please the emperor. You're overly qualified.

Mingfan: You're the best!

Ning Yingying: But you better not cramp my style.

Mingfan: Promise. And I'll be a rank lower than you.

Ning Yingying: That sounds good.

First is Taizifei, then Ouyang guifei and then me. You see, Ouyang Zizhen is a clan leader so.

Mingfan: I see. Shizun, Taizifei had already told me I'm not a part of team dimple 2.0. What's does she mean by that.

Shen Jiu: The influence of team dimple, obviously. Don't worry.

They just want the spotlight.

Taizifei is an icon, anyways.

Mingfan: Got it! Now how to be a concubine.

Ning Yingying: It's just like having a boyfriend. But he's a prince and future emperor.

No pressure.

Mingfan: Huh.

Ning Yingying: But he's chill.

Mingfan: And dreamy!

~~

Meanwhile, Taihua going to meet her family at the lounge area in Jing Manor, until she was greeted by her crush. This is absolutely perfect timing, as she wished to have him involved in something.

Taihua: Jinfeng zun!

Gongyi Xiao: Gongzhu. In a hurry?

Taihua: Not at all. I'm just going to meet A-Die.

Tomorrow, I'm supposed to visit Moling to meet the Su clan.

Gongyi Xiao: That's great.

Taihua: What about you?

Gongyi Xiao: I was heading to evening coaching

Taihua: Ah.

Gongyi Xiao: I'm planning on being a cloud knight for 5 months, then I'll return to working directly under Taizi.

Taihua: Does that mean you're leaving for one of those flagships??

I'm afraid I might miss you.

Gongyi Xiao: Not at all. I'll set up a base in Laoling.

Taihua: You will need funding. I'll organise one for you.

Gongyi Xiao: That's not necessary. Because Taizi would make arrangements.

You're too kind.

Taihua: Good then.

Jinfeng zun, I would like you to accompany me to Moling.

Gongyi Xiao: You do? I'm absolutely honored. Sure.

Taihua: But I want you to relax a bit. You're not out with Taizi. You're with me.

Gongyi Xiao: Aw. As you wish.

Taihua: come. We must tell A-Die.

Gongyi Xiao: You're open about your feelings. I admire that.

Taihua: Of course.

I was like that since I was a child. And I would get what I want.

Gongyi Xiao: Oh waw. Princess privileges.

Taihua: Mhm.

•

Lounge area📍

Shen Jiu: Huangdi, I've found another concubine for Taizi!

Yao: Ah! The more the merrier! And I have my full trust in you.

Qin su: Are they like Yingying? She's such a dear.

Meng Shi: I hope it's not Gongyi Xiao. He looks like he's only devoted to Song'er as an equerry. We can't rush things.

Mingfan: No no. Don't worry. It's not Gongyi Xiao, and yes he's quite fiery little thing. Fortunately his loyalty has no bounds.

Qin su: I see.

Xiaobao: Congrats, dimples.

Rusong: I don't know who it is yet.

Xiaobao: Congrats in advance, dimples.

Shen Jiu: Mingfan.

Rusong: Him?! No wonder he was acting weird.

Yao: Mingfan. Your dear student.

Well, we must evaluate him.

Meng Shi: Hmm. Well he's submissive enough.

Qin su: Does he come from a good family?

Shen Jiu: Yup. His family is wealthy. But not as wealthy as the Qins.

They're like Qinghe Nie level of wealth.

And he is a talented student.

Yao: I rather him be a clan leader. Why didn't you seduce another clan leader, A-Song.

Rusong: I don't know, A-Die. He was playing the guzheng for me, but he was flustered the whole time.

I will look for a clan leader in the future

Meng Shi: *sigh* Rusong. Stop seducing people.

Rusong: I can't help it, Nainai. *pouts*

Yao: Oh Song'er. You're a Meng at heart.

Xiaobao: Song ge is seducing the whole empire! But I agree with A-Die. Get a clan leader.

Yao: Song'er, you're something else. What do you think about him?

Rusong: He's entertaining! But we haven't been on a date or anything.

Yao: I see. I see. Well your choice is yours.

Rusong: Yes A-Die.

A new addition to my harem would be lovely, to be honest. But I plan to do my own evaluation.

Yao: You should always go for the loyal and resourceful ones. They'll help you with everything.

Shen Jiu: Huangdi, Mingfan is like an acting peak lord. When I'm busy at court or whatever, he supervises.

He doesn't do a good job at it, but.

Yao: Doesn't do a good job?

Shsn Jiu: He does, but he's just openly bossy.

Yao: Oh.

.

Taihua: *enters with Gongyi Xiao* Greetings A-Die.

Gongyi Xiao: Greetings Huangdi.

Yao: Taihua! My dear. Are you ready for your trip tomorrow?

Taihua: Yes, A-Die.

Yao: Brilliant. You will be absolutely brilliant, and would learn a lot from Minshan and Suyin.

Taihua: What do they think about me being their Nuwang? Do the Su sect control the entire province?

Yao: They're elated. Remember, they're my closest men.

Moling is indeed controlled by the Moling Su sect.

Taihua: Mn. I can't wait.

Qin Su: Baby, the Sus will tell you everything. Listen to them.

Taihua: Will do, A-Niang.

Qin Su: And know that you're a Meng.

Meng Shi: I hope that Jinfeng zun has a day off, so that you two can spend some time.

This is such an adorable pairing.

Taihua: Nainai.

Gongyi Xiao: ah, thank you Taihou. Actually--

Xiaobao: Awwwwww!!! I know right. Nainai has the best taste!

Taihua: Nainai, i was going to ask A-Die permission, to bring a guest.

Yao: I've always admired your pairing. And Jinfeng zun is well mannered.

Qin Su: A clan leader (*teasing the emperor*)

Yao: Go ahead, Hua. Carry him with you.

Taihua: Thank you, A-Die!!

You're the best! *kisses his cheek*

Yao: I always am.

Rusong: But i do agree that it's a good pairing.

Xiaobao: Match made in heaven!

Meng Shi: Exactly.

Yao: We'll keep an eye on the progress.

Gongyi Xiao: Huangdi, I'm honoured to receive such fondness from you and your family.

Yao: No problem. We treat all our allies like family anyways.

Shen Jiu: (did I just unlock a new ship. Gongyi Xiao is smooth for that. Or is it the Meng effect again.)

[menghulijing]

Yao Huangdi's meeting room 📍.

When Guzi was dragged in by fox spirit guards, Meng Yao quickly recognized him. However, he wasn't at all surprised by his peripheral henchman's son became rogue, as he saw these kinds of scenarios before.

Guzi: *grins* Huxian Meng Huangdi. Hulijing emperor with shrines across the land. Well, they're not as good as the one A-Die had built for you.

Yao: It's a pleasure seeing you. Though it's a disgraceful position.

Guzi: Mhm. Your Rusong is no fun. I offered to poison his enemies but he still insisted on locking me up. I love it when he's angry. He looks hotter.

Su she: Guzi, Qi Rong was in Huangdi's service! Don't drag his name in the mud!

Mo xuanyu: Your dad would be very disappointed!

Xue yang: Team d, team d. Let Jiggy and his sexy self talk. Before I show him how Lingchi is done.

Guzi: Oh my god. A-Qing wanted to Lingchi me too! Kinda weird that it happened twice.

Yao: Thank you, Chengmei.

Rusong doesn't need a hitman, nor a new one.

I've treated Qi Rong so well, and you dare challenge me?

Qi Rong: Aha, i know that, Huangdi. And i respect you too. I'm in need of your collection of turmoil.

That's just it. Is it that hard?

Yao: My turmoil is a mysterious and powerful art piece. Not anyone can get

Their hands on it.

Have you heard about the battle at the Nightless city, when everyone was trying to grab the Yin Iron. Some got stabbed or amputated in the process.

Guzi: So? I'm not like those lousy cultivators! And I fear nothing.

Yao: It's not a matter of being lousy cannon fodders. My score isn't a to. It will be passed on from Huangdi to Huangdi and nothing else. Meng to Meng. Su Minshan is an exception.

Guzi: Would it change if I knock up with dimple?

Yao: Leave my son alone.

Guzi: *laughs*

Rusong: *enters and greets Meng Yao* A-Die.

Guzi: *voice chimes* Dimples~ I was just talking about you.

Xue yang: Simp.

Su she: You did the same thing, to he honest.

Xue yang; I was better than that, Shanshan. Come on.

Rusong: Gui Gongye Guzi wants to seek revenge on the Jianghu for mistreating Qi Rong.

Yao: *glance softened*

Rusong: He was spat on and mistreated. Guzi thought that the collection of turmoil would help him.

Guzi: Oh you remember my backstory! How sweet!

Hearing the account, Yao Huangdi started analyzing and calculating Guzi's motives. Though standing his grounds and protecting one of the most powerful possessions of him, he started seeing himself in Guzi. He had done this before! He had done radical things in the name of Meng Shi and her status. He made sure that she, him and the Mengs get the resspect they deserve.

However, this hulijing wasn't quick to side with him. He can't rule by emotions.

Minshan, what did your spies find out?

Su she: The Yin group had also tried writing their own versions, but failed. They've written their scripts behind cabinets and on their undergarments.

Yao: Terrible! Have anyone tried using the corrupted versions then?

Su she: I heard that one of them had controlled a fierce corpse with it. But the corpse was only able to do acrobatics.

Some had used it and got sick. Their illness started off as a pollen allergy, then it gets worst over time.

Choking hiccups, coughing up blood and nightmares.

Yao: Ah, well that's expected, Shanshan.

Su she: Yes Huangdi.

They wrote and played it incorrectly.

Yao: And the original is sadly out of the question.

Su she: Rest assured, we didn't leave a trace of the corrupted scores, before someone tries to use it to their advantage again.

Guzi: Meng Huangdi's stooge! You've destroyed all my efforts! I would've tweaked it! I would've been able to seek revenge.

Su she: Your scheme for revenge violates Huangdi's most sacred edict.

Yao: Continue with your observations, Shanshan.

Guzi: Shanshan is such a cute name for someone with a fiesty attitude. Huh!

Su she: Xiandu to you.

Guzi: Shanshan Xiandu!

Su she: Huangdi, My spies had found some scripts in Siamese.

Yao: Siamese?? That's impressive.

I should try that myself. But I need a Siamese speaker.

Guzi: Sadly Shanshan killed one of my Siamese hitman.

He did the translations.

Yao: Other than that, Guzi. I understand the reason for your revenge plot, and would love to lend a helping hand. Without the collection of turmoil, got it?

Guzi: What could be better than the turmoil!

Yao: My imperial support, Guzi.

I'm the Turmoil's master.

Mo xuanyu: Why does Yao gege say the sexiest things?

Xue yang: Because he's sexy.

Rusong: Team dimple. *shakes head*

Yao: Here's what. I'll give you blades doused with my signature poison, the Golden String Poison, and some fox spirits who wish to be assasins.

Guzi: Ahh, an infantry! I love the sound of that. Can I have Rusong as a concubine.

Rusong: Dear, I'm Meng Taizi Dianxia. I collect concubines.

Guzi: That can work.

Rusong: *rolls eyes*

Guzi: what a sassy little prince.

Xue yang: Jiggy used to play hard to get just like this.

Yao: You'll be monitored, by the way. I've given you these things to help you grow powerfully.

You said you make poisons, correct?

Guzi: Yea! I offered to make them for Dimples, but he refused.

Yao: Maybe when he's ready.

Use your assets wisely. Yes, you can be sparingly dangerous. Sparingly, ok!

Remember, you're in my clasp.

Guzi: Got it, Huangdi. You're in control.

Yao: *smile* That's good.

Guzi: Ah. I forgot to add that my Siamese associate told me about Siamesse fox spirits. And how they're venerated.

They're said to help with love, affairs of the heart and fortune.

Other than your fox spirits who are venerated for a wide range of things.

Yao: Ohh. I haven't read up on them, honestly.

Thanks for sharing.

Guzi: Their fox spirit guardians are Nang Phaya Chingchok and Kao Hang. He's also known as Jing Jork Gao Hang.

Yao: They're very interesting

I will educate myself about Siamese culture and their scripts.

You're now dismissed.

Guzi: Oh my goodness, thank you! I was getting bored! Well not of you, but of my confinement.

And Dimples didn't even pay me a visit.

Yao: How unfortunate. *smiles* However you and Rusong have separate work to do. I hope we meet again, in a proper way.

Guzi: Yea, got to go, Huangdi.

*escorted out*

Rusong: What's up with him?

Yao: It happens to all of us Mengs.

*Sips tea*

Rusong: haha! I see that. That's why there's team dimple.

Yao: Qi Rong had always joked about me hiring his son as your servant.

Rusong: Oh really?

That's quite the coincidence. Probably I need a little chaos in my glamorous court, from time to time.

Yao: It heals the boredom.

Mo xuanyu: Are you going to add him then?

Rusong: not yet. I barely know him.

Xue yang: You know Songsong is a diva. He has to be a sassy Meng before anything else.

Mo xuanyu: Yea.

Xue yang: Jiggy, your Bai Renshou is eating my fierce corpses

Yao: Hmm. That may be a problem.

He shall eat some scraps. Like unwanted meat. As well as the fierce corpses with a low qi level. You, the ones that don't perform as you like.

Xue yang: Certainly, my emperor.

Mo Xuanyu: I put lipstick on him so that he would look cute.

Su she: He should look presentable for you, Huangdi.

Yao: Oh! Isn't that so. And you went through the trouble of doing his makeup.

Here's what, Yuyu. Do it again when I have to introduce him to my family.

Mo xuanyu: Got it, Yao gege!

Rusong: Nie Guifei is still a concubine. So the lipstick is ideal

Yao: Exactly.

Rusong: I await that scene!

A-Die, I'll take your leave.

Yao: See you later, A-Song. *smile*

Suddenly, his head Eunuch entered right after, with a plaque and eyes lowered to the floor, like always.

Yao: Oh speaking of concubine.

Eunuch Li: Greetings, Huangdi. Your mere servant requests you to select a concubine.

Yao: Trying to hook me up with a concubine again, Li?

Have we discussed this?

Eunuch Li: *laughing, knowing how playful his emperor is at times*

Your imperial majesty, your concubines wish to be blessed by you.

Yao: No wonder they've been squabbling! I'm the Emperor.

Eunuch Li: Heheh! You ARE the emperor.

Yao: Before upholding the peace of the empire, i must uphold the peace of my harem. And stop the squabble.

Eunuch Li: *presents the plaque*

How is team dimple so quiet?

Yao: They've learnt not to fight.

*smiles, then flips a plaque* I will spend my time with Qin Huanghou.

Eunuch Li: Excellent choice as always, Huangdi.

Yao: Mn. Of course the empress will be elated, because who wouldn't.

You said they're all fighting over me.

Eunuch Li: Yes Huangdi.

Yao: Right. I know so.

Please. Convey the message.

Eunuch Li: I will swiftly, Huangdi.

Yao: Ahh, Eunuch Li. Always trying to stop the harem drama by starting it.

~~~

Later in the night, at Fangfei Mansion, Qin Su and Meng Yao spent some quality and intimate time together. In addition, he had his fox tails out, which added to his majestic allure.

Yao: *affectionately tying Qin Su's hair in a fashionable knot. He had already gifted her diamonds earrings.*

Qin su: A-Yao, how are you so good at hairdressing?

Yao: Learnt from observation, dear.

I was constantly around women.

Qin Su: I'm not surprised.

Yao: *kisses her* Hmm, how come?

Qin Su: You're too gorgeous for your own good.

*pecks him on his dimple*

Yao: And what about you? You're too cute for your own good. *cups face*

Qin Su: *gets lost in his golden eyes. She kisses his hand and then deeply on the lips*

Yao: You're gift to me and my empire, A-Su. *lifts chin* Thank you for everything.

Qin Su: For what, Huangdi? I have only given you my support, my heart, my undying devotion and loyalty.

Yao: Exactly. Thank you for that.

Thereafter, the imperial couple

went to their balcony, where Qin Su carried a Yueqin in hand. The ambiance, as expected, was cool, calm and intimate. Just beforehand, Meng Yao had ordered his servants to place some wine near their balcony's seating area just to add another romantic touch.

Yao: You plan to serenade me, dear.

Qin Su: Yes Huangdi, while you have some wine.

Yao: Dear, the wine was catered for you as well.

Qin Su: Save some for me then, A-yao. After my service to you is done.

Sitting next to Huangdi will be my reward.

Yao: Aw! Darling.

A-Su, look at the view.

Qin Su: Ah yes, it's so beautiful and vast.

Yao: Indeed. That nosy Eunuch Li is probably in our courtyard, spying and wondering about the outcome of our date.

We've been doing this for years, and I always serve.

Qin Su: *laughing* You do a good job at it too. All clan leaders are in your submission!

Yao: *puts her hand in his* But rest assured my dear, I've locked the doors, and ordered Xiying and Fuying to guard them.

Qin Su: Good.

You and your nosy eunuchs.

Yao: Pay no mind to them.

Qin Su: You should have them beheaded for eavesdropping.

Yao: A-Su, they're entertaining. And I'm trying not to behead people.

Qin Su: But you look hot when you're fierce and ruthless.

Yao: Oh really, my empress. You like fire?

Qin Su: And excitement!

*She eases him lovingly into his seat*

Yao: I see.

Qin Su: Huangdi, be comfortable.

*sits and plays the Yueqin.

Yao: *sips wine* Hmn.

~~~

A few minutes later, Qin Su finished her song and knelt in the floor, waiting for her emperor's praise. Then Yao Huangdi lifted her chin with his fan and softened his gold eyes.

Qin Su: Huangdi. *blushing*

Yao: *lifts her from off the floor* You're very beautiful, and so is your song.

Qin Su: *looks at him lovingly*

Yao: *kisses, then puts her in his arms*

Qin Su: Yao Huangdi. I...I love you. *buries her head in his chest*

Yao: *caresses her cheek* A-Su.

Qin Su: Tell me you love me back. *hides her face*

Yao: Of course I love you, beloved.

Let's have a seat.

Qin Su: mn.

Huangdi, I need your opinion in something. *pours wine for herself*

Yao: What is it?

Qin Su: Song Qiutong told me that she wants to overthrow Mo Ran.

Please don't tell him.

But what are your views on that?

Yao: I always support powerful women and women in power. And I believe there's a reason behind it.

Qin Su: Yea she has had enough. Song Qiutong is very much underrated and not at all valued.

Yao: An unfair environment tends to do that.

I've also had enough, when I was just a mere cultivator. That thirst for validation, justice and self image made me resilient.

If I can prove everyone wrong, Song Huanghou can too!

Let her have real power.

Qin Su: Right! I support her too.

She can call for my spies any time she likes.

Yao: We must support her discreetly. I don't know how would Mo Huangdi react.

Qin Su: Agreed, Huangdi.

Yao: I will do my best to preserve the bond between two empires.

Qin Su: As you should!

Now. *puts his hands in hers* Shall we get back to some romance?

Yao: Definitely dear.

Qin Su: I wish to feel you all over my body, Huangdi.

Yao: *laughs daintily* I hope i don't devour you completely. *lifts chin*

Qin su: So what if that's my desire.

*wraps her arms around his*

Furthermore, they laid in bed while playfully undressing each other and locking eyes. Qin Su passionately grabbed his thigh whereas Meng Yao grabbed her waistline, pulling her close to his jade chest. The both then kissed gently and gracefully while his tails floated in the wind, then against his hips. Qin Su snuggles more while she continued to receive kisses from her emperor.

Qin Su: Huangdi!

Yao: Am I all over you yet?

Qin su: *giggles* Always.

Huangdi, I want to stay like this forever.

Yao: You're forever my wife, darling.

Qin Su: You know how Wangxian does everyday means everyday, sometimes I feel like I can do the same. And then stay in bed with you forever.

Yao: *kisses* Oh I see. *kisses her neck* My beautiful empress.

Qin Su: But i know you have imperial duties.

Yao: mhm.

Qin Su: Now my Handsome Emperor. Tell me about my beauty again.

Yao: No one is as beautiful as you, empress. You know this. *kisses her forehead*

You're a gem.

Qin Su: And my Huangdi is the most gorgeous and most superior. You are perfect. *snuggles*

[hulijingemperor2]

Followup~

Jingyi and Xiaobao brought the two estranged lovers together

Jingyi: introducing, Yanqing.

Xiaobao: and introducing Yunli.

You seem to know each other, right?

Yunli and Yanqing: *blushing*

Jingyi: we got to go. Rusong is calling us.

You know, we have to toast together.

Xiaobao: brother things.

Bye!

Yanqimg: but Dianxia.

Yunli: Dianxia.

Both: ..........

Yunli: hey.

Yanqing: hey.

How are you doing?

Yunli: I'm ok. And you?

Yanqing: same.

Yunli: .........you....met Huangdi?

Yanqing: ......yea I did. Huangdi is still Huangdi..

Gosh I sound like a treasonous idiot.

Yes Huangdi is amazing.

Yunli: I agree.

No I agree with Huangdi being amazing.

Not the treasonous idiot part.

I'm actually the idiot to let you go.

Yanqing: no. You thought that was the right thing to do.

And long distance relationships always end up in estrangement, if not taken care of.

Yunli: yea. Were gossiping about me to Dianxia??

Yanqing: guilty.

Sorry. Dianxia wanted to know.

Yunli: no worries. I gossiped about you too.

Yanqing: well it's a tie.

Yunli, you're maybe leaving tomorrow. On your Xianzhou Zhuming.

Yunli: Yup. We're going to hover over a Borisin territory.

Yanqing: be careful.

I'm on weaponry duty, and mapping.

Yunli: thank you. And have fun.

Yanqing: shall we continue where we left off? Grab a few drinks and reminisce the good old days. If it's not a problem with you.

Yunli: I would love that!!!

Yanqing: good!!

Yunli: but I thought that you cloud Knights don't drink in the presence of the emperor?

Yanqing: yea, but it's a party. And our merciful Huangdi gave us the right away.

Yunli: aww.

Yanqing: *gives her his arm*

Yunli: *wraps her arms around his*

Yanqing: how's your yeye?

Yunli: strong as ever! Thanks for asking

Yanqing, I thought I wouldn't see you again.

Yanqing: same here! I miss you

Yunli: I miss you too!

Yanqing: any vacations?

Yunli: after spying on the Borisins of course. Maybe within two weeks.

Yanqing: that's so long, but I'll wait.

Maybe I should bury myself in work to pass the time along.

Yunli: yea!

At least we're together. And maybe we can continue dating when we're on vacation.

Yanqing: I love the sound of that.

Both: *took a seat together*

Yunli: yeye would be happy though. He always asks about you.

Yanqing: really???? Me???

Or does he miss giving me shovel talk?

Yunli: maybe both. *giggling*

Yanqing: ahahaha. I miss yeye too.

Yunli: imagine if he knew that it's the princes who helped link us up again.

Yanqing: now then he'll believe it's a match made in heaven!

Yunli: it definitely is. It always was.

But it became special because the Mengs helped us.

Yanqing: yes, I do agree. Meng approval is divine.

It means that the emperor is pleased with our alliance.

But he approved through our down to earth princes.

Yunli: exactly.

Then what if Rusong Taizi linked us up?

He already as the aura of a Huangdi.

Yanqing: then your yeye would get us married.

Yunli: *blush* I'll be the happiest then

Yanqing: *looks at her lovingly* aww.

Yunli: but let's just date for a bit. *hugs*

Yanqing: as you wish.

Yunli: you're so ideal for me, you know.

You treat me right, we're hulijings and we serve our Huangdi.

Yanqing: yes. And you're absolutely ideal for me.

Yunli: wanna know a secret?

Yanqing: tell me.

Yunli: when we broke up, and yeye saw me cry, he decided to get me a husband.

Yanqing: what??? Who?? Is...is he hotter than me?

Yunli: he's hotter than everyone, because it's Taizi Dianxia.

Yanqing: wow.

Yunli: but alliance never happened. And the Mengs didn't know a thing. Yeye knew I could easily become the concubine of Taizi, because of my rank.

Rusong Taizi is gorgeous, but he's my future emperor. I rather be a servant than a concubine.

Yanqing: your yeye is so sweet. He looks like he would even bring down a demi God to cheer you up.

Yunli: *laughing* he would!!

Yeye will do the impossible.

Yanqing: so how are things on the Zhuming ship? Are you still hunting for cursed swords?

Yunli: Yup. No one is allowed to have cursed swords, according to my team and I. Only Huangdi can keep them safe.

Yanqing: how righteous.

Yunli: the ghosts that are trapped in the swords are taken care off by ghost king Hua Cheng.

Yanqing: oh waw.

I only wanted to be promoted as a general, but Huangdi had instilled a new goal in me! So now I want to be a Marshal one day.

Yunli: go for it! You're a very ambitious person, with good morals.

Yanqing: thank you!

~~~

On the other hand, while chatting and toasting with Yao Huangdi~

Huaiyan: Meng Huangdi, I would like to introduce you to the hero of the Xianzhou Alliance. Jingliu.

She has defeated Hoolay and threw him in prison.

Yao: pleasure to meet you.

Jingliu: *bow* sorry I'm late, Huangdi.

I was unwell, but know I have recovered.

Yao: oh that's dreadful. I'm glad you're fine now and I get the opportunity to meet such a hero.

Jingliu: Huangdi don't flatter me.

Yao: come one, let's toast.

Jingliu: mn. 

Yao: I'm always happy to see female heroes, who shape our history.

You're absolutely amazing!

Jingliu: thank you so much.

It's all thanks to goddess Meng. I'm one of the millions that go to her temple in Yunping every year.

Yao: magnificent. Aniang must be elated.

Jingliu: Huangdi, I wanted to form my own army of women, but you know I was unwell for a month.

Yao: your health should come first. So don't push yourself too much.

Jingliu: certainly Huangdi.

Rusong: I hope you get well soon, Lao Jingliu.

Jingliu: thank you. But Dianxia, the moon rage is a natural disease. Weak hulijing like us can't run away from it.

It's a fragment of our pass. If intensely aggravated by stress, it can affect the hulijings mental state.

Rusong: oh dear.

Jingliu: some hulijings who were oppressed by the Borisins went insane, qi deviated or suffered from ptsd.

I suffered a lot too.

Rusong: I'm so sorry to hear that. But please, take care of yourself.

Yao: are you getting treatment?

Jingliu: yes Huangdi.

Yao: I'm worried about the rest of hulijings, who are now in Jiaoqiu's care.

Jingliu: Huangdi you're quite compassionate.

Yao: the Borisins will never be forgiven for torturing hulijings. I guess I should oppress them in return, but that would be dangerous.

Anyways, Jingliu, I appreciate your work. You're the definition of a hero. Capturing a war criminal while battling with your own illness.

You're very strong.

Jingliu: thank you. It made me relate to the ones I saved, because they had the same experiences as me.

Yao: quite remarkable.

Jingliu: thank you so much, Huangdi. I'm glad I made you proud, and served the Mengs.

Yao: yes, you're indeed exceptional.

A-Song, do you see these great veterans? You must get accustomed being around them.

Rusong: oh yes, they're all very interesting.

The true backbone of our empire and nations.

Yao: exactly. They work very hard, A-Song. And we must honor and thank them countlessly.

Rusong: sure, A-Die

Jingliu: aw Huangdi. You're training Taizi.

Yao: yes, as I must. There are responsibilities he will soon inherit.

Qin su: *confronts them after meeting other guests* Jingliu. Nice to meet you.

Jingliu: *bow* Huanghou, it's an honour.

Qin Su: *smiling* honour to meet you too. 

And you met Taizi.

Jingliu: definitely. He's very brilliant, and he has Huangdi's radiance, and your elegance.

Qin Su: of course.

Yao: A-Song is A-Su Huanghou.

Qin Su: he's the both of us, Huangdi.

And our A-Song is the most elegant thing. *strokes Rusong's hair*

Rusong: haha thank you A-niang.

Qin Su: Jingliu, you know my Rusong is an amazing sect leader too.

Jingliu:  awww, I heard all about it, Huanghou. Dianxia is perfect in everything.

Qin Su: of course he is.

Huangdi, I was just chatting with some other Cloud Knights.

Yao: lovely. Everyone should get a glimpse of their beautiful empress.

Qin Su: *blushing*

Huaiyan: my empress. *bows and kisses her hand in respect*

Qin Su: former Arbiter Huaiyan. How are you?

Huaiyan: I'm great, empress. Thank you for your concern.

You're a blessing to the Mengs, Huanghou, as you're regal, soft-spoken, beautiful and absolutely glamorous.

Qin Su: thank you very much.

Yao: she's a gem.

Qin Su: don't flatter me. I try my best, that's all.

Huaiyan: the best of the best.

Huanghou, how's your daughter-in-law to be?

It would be amazing to see her and Taizi together.

Qin Su: she's fine. And i completely agree. Everyone should see them together.

Am I right, A-Song?

Rusong: mhm. I think she's she got a little comfortable with her new environment.

Qin Su: she must. As the girlfriend of Taizi.

Jingliu: happily the empress is there to teach her.

Qin Su: of course.  Jingliu, Shall we walk and chat?

Jingliu: sure Huanghou. I could never turn you down.

~~~~

Next day, in imperial court, Yao Huangdi was engaged in protecting his borders, and correcting maps~ by hand.

His attendant however stood by, preparing his ink by rubbing a block in water.

Yao: Anle is a Northern bordering city, controlled by Moling Su. I advise that every regiment should have at least 1000 hulijing troops. Feixiao, I want you to work with the Su cousins.

Feixiao: will do, Huangdi.

Su she: Huangdi, we have a secret watchtower, where we can easily spy on the Borisins from.

Once I gave you a tour, Huangdi.

Yao: yes yes, I know what you're talking about. Good idea, Minshan.

Suyin: Minshan will be in Moling itself and I will be in Anle, Huangdi.

Yao: well I'll give a replica of the map to Su Zongzhu.

He's in charge of his sect members, and would orchestrate our plans perfectly.

Mo xuanyu:  where did the Borisins even come from, all of a sudden.

Yao gege, would they invade your empire?

Yao: never, A-Yu. We're Guarded right around.

The current Borisin uprising signals something, about their leader.

Xue yang: but he's imprisoned.

Yao: yes, but that doesn't stop him from sending messages.

Imform Chiyi that I want the the prisons purged. No one is supposed to be communicating with Hoolay!

Who the hell is he to have his own messengers?!

Xue yang: gosh I love it when Jiggy is infuriated.

It's so hot.

Mo xuanyu: I know right.

Feixiao: I'll inform her, Huangdi.

Yao: I myself will evaluate the officers. And if I suspect anything, I'll execute them Qishan Wen style.

Xue yang: imagine if Binghe was a Borisin ally.

Yao: could be possible. But I think he's too busy being a yandere.

Hua: *enters* Huangdi! It's urgent!

Yao: what's that?

Hua: a message from Hoolay.

Yao: this how it's supposed to be. Only appointed members of the Cloud Knights can convey messages from prisoners.

Tell me.

Hua: *reading* Guangyao Huangdi. How dare you and your Mengs imprison me. You're the actual war criminal for doing so.

So hilarious how these people have an emperor now. Pathetic!

Huangdi doesn't know who he's dealing with and I will have my revenge!

Hulijings deserve to be under the oppression of us Borisins, like in the beginning.

But Huangdi, I am indeed a person of reasoning, so here's what. Give me power. Give me a place in your imperial court.

Yao: that will never happen! Why would I put such an unscrupulous person in my imperial court!!

You will be nowhere near my people!

Xue yang: the guy literally said he's coming for revenge, and then he's asking for a place in the Huyao Meng empire.

Is he an idiot?

Hua: I know our Huangdi is very strong.

So what now?

Yao: I'll meet him personally.

Team dimple, let's go.

Team d: right behind you!!

Cloud Knights: *follows Yao Huangdi to serve as protection*

~~~~

Thereafter they arrived at the 'Alcatraz' of the Jianghu. The Shackling Prison is where all criminals are shackled and (tortured- depending on the crimes).

Crimes varied from murder to high treason, war crimes and attempts on Regicide.

The Jianghu has other dungeons and prisons, but this one is the dungeon of dungeons. And it has a torture chamber on sight.

As for the empire's judicial system,

First they're presented to Huangdi, where he arrests them, then Zhou queen, Su Daji oversees the trials. If it's serious, the entire elite will be involved.

Su Daji has become the fox goddess of justice and warfare, even though she's fierce and brutal at times.

That's how it is. Basically the Jianghu is run by hulijings, since Yao Huangdi merged the two worlds.

The Jianghu is his dominion.

The Guardian of the Prison is Madam Chiyi, or just Chiyi. And she let her officers kneel in a row to be evaluated by the emperor.

Chiyi: *Kneels and kisses A-yao's hand in submission.* I greet you, Huangdi.

Yao: please, you may stand.

Chiyi: Huangdi, I made all my subordinates kneel before you. Now you may enter.

Yao: lovely.

Chiyi: would you like some tea or something? Forgive me but, Huangdi looks infuriated.

Yao: oh you are too kind. Perhaps later.

I was just angry about Hoolay.

Chiyi: yes Huangdi. Forgive me for not inspecting the staff earlier. I don't know who could be his messenger.

Feel free to stab me.

Yao: don't blame yourself. You are doing your best.

Chiyi: thank you Huangdi.

The prison's staff: *kneeling and trembling* hail the hulijing emperor! Hail the hulijing emperor!

Yao: *standing in front of them*

Team dimple, search them.

Xue yang: will do.

Yao: *unwraps his sword from around his waste*

Huangdi, have mercy!

Yao: some of you are communicating with that distasteful war criminal under Chiyi's nose. Hence I decided to evaluate you myself.

Yao: if innocent, you'll see your emperor's mercy. But if found guilty, you'll be killed Qishan Wen style.

Officer: *fighting with Mo xuanyu*

Yao: *locks their qi with the flick of his wrist* I order you to stay put.

You wrestle with team dimple, you wrestle with your emperor. How dare you!

Xue yang: these guys are innocent here

But. *reaches into an officer's pockets* this one isn't! Isn't this Borisin dialect written here?

Huangdi I can explain!

Yao: *stabs the officer*

Mo xuanyu: you're a Borisin in disguise!!!

Shhh, shh! Lower your voice!

Mo xuanyu: I'm part of Yao gege's defense force! You can't shush me. *slaps* bitch!

*infuriated* fine! You caught me! down with your Huangdi!

Yao: *stabs*

Su she: disgrace.

Huangdi, these 3 have letters on them too.

All Borisin coded.

Yao: *stabs again*

Mo xuanyu: Yao gege, this person is guilty too!

Huangdi Huangdi, no!

Mo xuanyu: stop pleading! Huangdi despises fake people like you!

Huangdi I was set up by Hoolay himself.

Yao: then why do you have his pendant!

He gave it to me.

Yao: think you can fool me. *stab*

Su she: *grabs another officer behind their head* you look suspicious.

X: *cries* I was blackmailed by Hoolay! To send messages! But I didn't know Huangdi was passing through. Huangdi!!

Su she: *pushes him down*

X: *hugging A-yao's feet* huangdi, I'm sorry!!

Xue yang: *stabs*

Yao: Chengmei!

Xue yang: spare no one.

Yao: anyways, he was in contact with him.

A few minutes later~

Yao: are the other 40+ officers innocent?

Su she: yes Huangdi.

Mo xuanyu: we managed to execute 18 of them.

Yao: *hands hensheng to xue yang~ as he enjoys cleaning up the blood. Then he opens his fan*

Mo xuanyu: Chiyi. Bring in the refreshments. Huangdi is exhausted.

Chiyi: will do.

Su she: have a seat, Huangdi.

Yao: *sits behind a desk* well half of  my work here is done.

Attendants: *preparing tea*

The innocent officers then dropped on their knees and kowtowed to him three times.

Yao: *amused*

Xue yang: he's so powerful.

Here's your Hensheng back, Huangdi. *kneels*.

Yao: thank you Chen

Su she: he'll manage to let even Hoolay bow.

Mo xuanyu: that's the greatness of our Yao gege.

Yao: *sips tea* that's enough, officers. I accept your adoration and allegiance. Get back to work.

Yes Huangdi.

Chiyi: I'm so happy that we have an emperor who's on the scene in anything. Be it purging the defence force or meeting his people.

Yao: it is my duty.

Chiyi: you still wish to meet Hoolay.

Yao: yes, definitely! He challenged my authority, so I must remind him that I'm Huangdi and he's my prisoner.

Team dimple, go meet him for me. And make sure he's ready.

*opens fan* you see, some rude people don't know how to properly greet their Huangdi.

Chiyi: as you wish. And for Huangdi's protection, the jail cell will stay closed.

Yes he's chained and his core is destroyed, but we're still afraid of the chains breaking somehow.

However the cell will be opened for team dimple.

I know they're masters of torture.

Team dimple, I'm not putting you in danger, I swear.

Su she: it's fine. It's your job to protect the emperor.

He's very precious to all of us.

Chiyi: mhm.

~~

To be continued~~~ Yao Huangdi will meet with Hoolay. I just want to write the scene in the beginning of a chapter so that's whyy.

[hulijingemperor2]

An interesting meeting with Yao Huangdi and his militaria ✨️~ Yess, it's HSR inspired.

Today is the anniversary of the Xianzhou Allince, and Yao Huangdi as well as Rusong hosted members from their hulijing military. Yao Huangdi however is definitely ahead of his time, as the Xianzhou alliance of Hulijings have their own airships, which deal with navigation, trade and safety.

All airships are under the Sky Faring Commission.

On the other side, the Verdant Cloud Knights is a highly elite organization of combat hulijings who are closest to Huangdi. The predecessors of the order were made heroes for their feats, and earned their own plaques and murals.

Marshal Hua and the rest of his Cloud nights all knelt before their Huangdi amd kowtowed 3 times.

Yao: it's a pleasure meeting my cloud Knights again, on such an auspicious day. Please discard the formalities.

Hua: thank you Huangdi.

Yao: Cloud Knights, you have quite a legacy. I absolutely admire the part you have to play in hulijing history.

Hua: yes. We had to save our fellowmen from oppression.

And we're still fighting those evil Borisins.

Yao: they will never change. They have caused a crime against the fox spirits, hence it's a crime against me.

Rusong: Borisins?

Yao: distant half canine relatives of Hulijings.

Despite being related, we have become enemies, and the Borisins enslaved the hulijings of Verdantia.

Rusong: that's so awful. Were they punished for their misdeeds?

Hua: yes Taizi.

And their leader Hoolay is still imprisoned. Then plenty of his Borisin troops were defeated and killed.

Rusong: oh good then. Well hence the anniversary.

I'm happy that you all can live your lives freely.

Yao: justice is yours, forever.

However we must devise a plan, since we still have a Borisin problem. We can't let them snatch your rights once again.

Hua: certainly. We brought some of our strategies here. Our generals are peak Hulijing intelligence, Huangdi.

Yao: so I saw. Every generation of the cloud Knights are extremely talented and brilliant.

Hua: shall we discuss after the banquet if you're free?

Yao: of course.

Hua: us cloud Knights abstain from liquor on the job. We'll only consume it if Huangdi allows.

Yao: aha, maybe I can

Please, tell me about the Borisin problem in detail.

Sushang Jiangjun: Huangdi, they're trying to get into our Western hulijing territories.

Yao: well station your men at our North Western secret base.

Sushang: and we'll also take from the North Eastern side, to box them in.

Yao: correct.

Jing Yuan: I'll do the honours in boxing them.

My regiment will take from the south.

Yao: what an excellent plan.

Suyi: we'll keep you updated, Huangdi.

Yao: much appreciated.

Hua: your hulijings will be safe. And just recently, we have saved some oppressed fox spirits.

Yao: oh that's delightful news! Please, take good care of them.

They must have been through a lot.

Hua: certainly. We got them some shelter and food. Some of them are malnourished.

Feixiao Jiangjun: some either have injuries, almost lost their sanity, or lost their tails.

Yao: how tragic.

Soon I'll visit them personally. The physician, Jiaoqiu should be on sight.

Feixiao Jiangjun: yes, rest assured. He and his team are helping them.

Jin Yuan: may I escort you when you're ready to visit? They're in Zhuming now.

Yao: lovely. Yes. Do the honours. *smiles*

Rusong: feel free to move them to Yunping, if you like.

Jin Yuan: will do. Maybe when they get back on their feet.

Hua: Huangdi, have you met Lt. Yanqing? He's the youngest lieutenant here.

Yanqing: greetings Huangdi and Taizi.

I'm so nervous to be in your presence.

Yao: nice to meet you. Don't be nervous.

And I love that we have young prodigies.

They always remind me of myself.

I was 14 during the Sunshot campaign.

Yanqing: waw! Huangdi is very brave.

Yao: yes. That's the only thing you should know how to be. There'd no time for fear.

Yanqing: did you have fun being a spy?

Yao: of course! I really enjoyed it. And it was interesting to see the war in that standpoint.

Yanqing: you're so incredible, Huangdi.

I hope it's proper to say that you're my role model.

Yao: it's totally fine.

Who else would be your role model.

Yanqing: you're right!

And you're already the head of the Verdant and Yaoqing Cloud Knights.

Yao: exactly.

The cloud Knights always have my heart and approval. I wish you all the best. And climb those ranks, ok.

Who knows, you may become a Marshal when Rusong Taizi is Huangdi. 

Yanqing: ah that's my dream! I want to serve the Mengs until my last breath.

Yao: appreciated.

In addition, the old retired Arbiter general, Huaiyan was aided by a walking stick and her granddaughter Yunli, the Arbiter general.

She's now in charge of Xianzhou Zhuming.

Jiaoqiu: Lao Huai. Did you take your qi tablets?

Huaiyan: I don't need them, thank you.

Jiaoqiu: but Lao Huai, when you reach at a certain age--

Huaiyan: what age?! And I'm still young. I'm at the ripe age of 114. I fought many wars and wrote many books you know.

Jiaoqiu: I understand that, but-

Yunli: yeye, please don't be stubborn. And Jiaoqiu is right.

Huaiyan: you think so?

Well I don't, dear.

Yunli: ah OK ok

Huaiyan: *looks around the grand banquet hall* I see his majesty had kept the original dragon motifs on the base of the pillars.

Yunli: *whispers to Jiaoqiu* just crush them up. I'll put it in his tea.

Jiaoqiu: sure. Food is supposed to be a form of medicine too. And herbal tea is a good medium.

Yao: Former Arbiter general.

Huaiyan: *bow* Huangdi.

Yunli and Jiaoqiu:  *bows* Huangdi.

Yao: Yunli Jiangjun, I must commend you on your skills. And Jiaoqiu on his alchemy and medicine.

Yunli: I'm honoured to be recognized by you, Huangdi.

Jiaoqiu: I'm also honored.

Yao: you have started your own apprenticeship program?

Jiaoqiu: officially.

Yao: congratulations. And I love what you do for the hulijings who were afflicted by oppression.

Jiaoqiu: I must, Huangdi. For the welfare of fox spirits.

Yao: marvelous work.

How are you, Former Arbiter?

Huaiyan: fit as a fiddle, Huangdi. You're truly magnificent. The hulijing realms are under good leadership. Honestly I don't think the pesky cultivators don't deserve you. We should have our Huangdi to ourselves.

Yao: *laughing daintily* I'm flattered. But the cultivators are incredibly powerful as well. They deserve a place in the empire.

Huaiyan: yes Huangdi, well said. It also shows your dominance of two worlds.

Huangdi, you know, whenever I see you I tear up.

Yao: *smile* why so?

Huaiyan: I joined your grandfather, Emperor Zhiyue's army at 15, while he was 28. You are the spitting image of him when he was younger.

Yao: oh really?? Well Aniang do tell me that I resemble him. And I saw for myself in portraits.

But it's interesting hearing it from you.

Huaiyan: same face, same energy. It's like Emperor Meng Zhiyue is in front of me.

We used to be a little close as well, as I became promoted ad a bodyguard.

I left when I turned 27 to join the First Xianzhou Allince, but I felt like it was a mistake.

Zhiyue died, and Empress Meng Shi succeeded him. Then Jing Manor plunged into political ploys to usurp the empire from the teen.

I did go back, to fight them off for a while, but when I heard that the empress had fleed, I got discouraged.

I didn't know if she was dead or alive! If she was dead, then what was I fighting for??

Yao: you have been through a lot, veteran. And your service will always be acknowledged.

Thank you very much.

Huaiyan: every drip of blood in my body is for the Mengs.

Rusong: Lao Huai, what books did you write? And are there copies?

Huaiyan: yes there are a lot of copies. It's just about my biography, Life in Jing Manor, Life as an Arbiter general in the Xianzhou Allince and Sky Faring commission.

Zhiyue Huangdi, Meng Shi taihou, and Yao Huangdi.

However the accounts on Yao Huangdi, on the hold, has its own series of volumes. 

I wrote about him being the hidden gem, his hardships and social climb. The sunshot campaign, Huangdi's rise and his way of thinking and ruling.

Huangdi is quite an interesting person. He's the first Meng Emperor who had to fight for his title. His story shows how experiences and environmental can impact his rule.

Zhiyue Huangdi didn't quite know about his peasants, and everyone respected him when he enters a room. But Yao Huangdi was the opposite. He had to earn his respect and climb socially.

Meng Shi taihou also learnt about hardships when in Jing Manor, but she was still young.

As I quoted 10 years ago, "Zhiyue ruled behind the seven strings of beads of his crown while Guangyao ruled behind the strings of his heart"

Rusong: Beautiful! that's a lot of accounts! I must buy all of them, and read your work. You're brilliant in both writing and battles.

Huaiyan: thank you Taizi.

Please do read them.

But you don't need to pay. It's our history.

Rusong: but you're a genius.

Huaiyan: I'm just happy that the Mengs are restored, all those corrupted people are dead, and we have a brilliant Huangdi. *kisses Ayao's hand* Huangdi, you're the most precious thing to us. You and your Taizi Dianxia.

I want to serve you until I die.

Sorry for being emotional.

Yao: you have made me emotional too. Hearing your story. And thr things you did for history.

Huaiyan: if I was around, I would have burnt that Lanling demon, Jin guangshan!!!

But I was occupied with writing books and being a part of the Xianzhou Allince. Saving your hulijings from the evil Borisins.

We won, during the second phase of the Xianzhou Allince, and I was already retired.

Yao: I still commend you. And yes, the both of us got our victories.

Do you take care of yourself?

Yunli: Huangdi, he thinks he's too strong for qi capsules.

Huaiyan: well Huangdi, it's kind of true.

Yao: your granddaughter knows what's best for you.

Take what's required.

Huaiyan: yes Huangdi.

Yunli: you're the only one he would listen to.

Huaiyan: because he's my emperor, silly girl. Disobeying him is illegal.

Yunli: *laughing* you're right, yeye

Yao: 114, is such a milestone.  And you still have your strength and memories.

You contributed to history and our wars.

Huaiyan: memories and experiences are my identity, Huangdi.

If I go to forget everything, I would lose myself too.

Yao: what should I do to honour you in person? You have your own plaque, murals and medals.

Huaiyan: Huangdi, I can't ask you anything. Anything you give me, will be the greatest honour.

Yao: mn. How about we have a city named after you.

Huaiyan Cheng.

Huaiyan: it will be an honour.

~

Xiying: Huangdi, Dianxia. The leader of the Sky-Faring Commission. Xianzhou Yukong.

Yukong: Huangdi.

Yao: nice to meet you again.

Rusong: it's a pleasure.

A-die, I wasn't too aware of our aviation team.

Yao: yes, A-Song. This is how we trade, navigate, and protect our people.

Rusong: marvelous.

Yukong: yes Dianxia, I used to fly my own ship too, but now I'm the leader and supervisor.

Rusong: I see. Madam, I would love to be on one of your flagships.

Yukong: it's an amazing experience, Dianxia. You would love it. We have seven grand flagships, but I don't know which one you want to be on?

Rusong: how about one of your trade ships.

Yukong: then the Xianzhou Luofu is perfect  for you.

We trade with different realms, and the refugees on the ships would get jobs too.

Yao: when you were around 6, I got the opportunity to fly on the Xianzhou Yaoqing. It's basically a floating city than a cargo ship, trust me.

Yukong had also taught me a few things about physics, rocket science and mechanics.

Yukong: ah yes, and Huangdi was brilliant. He's gifted in mapping, so he quickly picked up the navigation part.

Rusong: can she teach me then?

Yukong: well our ships work on hulijing energy. As you know certain entities have their own magnetic field around them. It picks up stars and other floating objects in front of us.

Our navigator is also a touch screen map.

The ship is empowered by Foxxian rocks, that hold electricity due to friction and heating.

We fly between the Jianghu's atmosphere and space.

Um, when someone down below sees our flagship, they would see that it's moving slow.

Yet in reality we're moving quickly.

Rusong: that's so interesting.

Yukong: yes Dianxia.

Rusong: do they come with their own defense.

Yukong: we're equipped with lasers and an army of cloud Knights.

Rusong: That's a really amazing organisation.

I'm very proud of the fox spirits for their advancement.

You know, An aviation team is unheard of in the Jianghu.

Yao: I guess the great clans should have one. And Yukong can do the honours in developing them.

Yukong: Huangdi, Dianxia, that's a good idea.

Yao: I believe flagships would be excellent for cultivation.

We shall do an testrun then.

Rusong Dianxia's Laoling Qin sect will be the first to do it.

Rusong is already the future of the empire, so it's his job to be a trendsetter.

Rusong: that sounds like a plan. And rest assured, I'll read up more on aviation.

Yukong: certainly, Dianxia.

And I'll send some of my apprentices to teach your clan members.

Once they learn for a year, they'll be able to operate their own airship.

Rusong: right. 

My Laoling Qin sect members are already talented, hence they'll adapt quickly.

Yukong: luckily for you, we had a new airship that wasn't named yet.

We'll proudly name it Xianzhou Laoling.

Rusong: what an excellent choice. It's maybe magnificent.

Fugue: very. And when the Qins finishe their training, I would love to see you open it and give us a dedicated speech.

Us Foxxians are eager to hear our Dianxia.

Rusong: I would be honoured to open the Xianzhou Laoling. Thank you for the opertunity.

Tingyun: Dianxia, I'll show you around the Luofu, if you'd like.

Rusong: please do. You seem like an expert as well.

Tingyun: I'm just  a novice, Dianxia. Haha, but thank you.

~~~~~

After their formal meetings, the banquet party started with live performances, delicious food and wine.

Huaiyan, some high ranking cloud Knights and members from the Sky-Faring Commission were still toasting with Yao Huangdi and chatting with Rusong.

However someone caught Arbiter general Yunli's attention, across the grand banquet hall. And it was non other than Lt. Yanqing, who gazed back.

Yanqing: *a little hesitant to talk to her* no. She said that our relationship is on pause.

I can't force her. And it would be improper in front of Huangdi.

Jingyi: Lieutenant, what are you talking about? *sips wine*

Yanqing: *startled* *bows quickly* er Dianxia!! I didn't see you there!

Forgive me for talking to myself as if I'm going crazy.

Jingyi: *laughing* it's ok. Xiaobao and I had just got here for the after party.

We just let our big bro handle everything stately, then we'll crash.

Yanqing: that's kinda cute. Yes, let your big bro take up all the responsibilities.

Jingyi: exactly. And Rusong is such a natural.

You seem stressed about something.

Yanqing: I don't want to trouble you, Dianxia.

Jingyi: oh no that would be troubling. Go ahead and tell me.

We can't have you talking to yourself.

Yanqing: that girl over there. She's the new Arbiter general, and kind of my girlfriend.

Jingyi: what do you mean kind of?!

Yanqing: we used to date. And we had a long distance relationship when she went back on the Xianzhou Zhuming airship.

Then our relationship just became estranged.

Jingyi: oh no. That's so sad.

Yanqing: Yunli seldom gets vacations. And when she do, she would use them to take care of her yeye.

Then I'm on the other side, working as a cloud Knight.

Jingyi: you both have two important jobs, but a little me time is essential.

Yanqing: yea. But we put our relationships on pause for now.

I do miss her.

Jingyi: so precious. A General amd Her Lieutenant.

Yanqing: she's legendary!

Her yeye is a war veteran who served your great grandfather.

Jingyi: amazing!

Yanqing: it feels so good to chat with you, Dianxia. Thank you so much for listening to my rant.

Jingyi: no prob.

Consider us besties.

Yanqing: that would be an honour.

Jingyi: let's go.

Yanqing: where?

Jingyi: to your girlfriend, silly.

Yanqing: ah, it's ok Dianxia. I'm fine.

Jingyi: dude don't be scared. She knows you already.

~

On the other hand~

Xiaobao: what happened, Arbiter general? Why are you all alone?

Yunli: greetings San Dianxia. *bow*

Xiaobao: are you gonna tell me what's up?

Yunli: I can't Dianxia. It's inappropriate in front of Huangdi and Taizi.

Xiaobao: they're busy chatting with dignitaries.

Yunli: what if Taizi hears about my personal woes. He's the future emperor you know. Yeye would be disappointed.

Xiaobao: then Taizi would just help you too, but in a more~ sophisticated way.

Taizi is chill. And he pampers me a lot.

Yunli: *laughing* they really say you're the babiest of the babiest.

Xiaobao: mhm. The babiest baby to ever baby. I'm San Dianxia, so.

You have a crush on Rusong?? Not that I'm surprised though.

Yunli: noooo. I don't have a crush on Taizi. Even though he's absolutely beautiful.

I just saw my on again off again bf. And I'm afraid to speak to him.

Xiaobao: ohhh, the Lieutenant Yanqing.

But do you want to?

Yunli: definitely.

Xiaobao: well go talk to him.

Yunli: but I'm nervous. He's maybe upset with me.

We decided to put our relationship on pause.

We both were very busy at the time.

Xiaobao: ohh.

How tough.

Yunli: I miss him though.

He used to take good care of me. At first he was afraid of yeye, but they had bonded overtime.

Yeye used to give him shovel talk, and he would want to fight Yanqing.

Xiaobao: but he's over 100?! Why does he want to fight???

Yunli: he still thinks he's young.

Then he would say, "I wouldn't have done that as a Lieutenant. You're the Captain of what?! Well that's a very new regiment.

I was shoulder to shoulder with emperor Meng Zhiyue! I was his shadow!! And his most trusted. The Minshan to his Yao Huangdi!"

I think he's impressed that Yanqing finally get to meet Huangdi.

Xiaobao: your yeye is so intense. We have an intense yeye too. Instead of being a war veteran, he was a war criminal *laughing*

Yunli: ahaha yes I heard of former sect leader Wen. Is it true that he's scary?

Xiaobao: not again! He softens up around Nainai.

Anyways Nainai is the sweetest Nainai ever!

Yunli: awwww.

Xiaobao: let's carry you to Yanqing.

Yunli: WHAT????

Xiaobao: do you rather sulk in a corner while he slip through your fingers?

This is what your yeye taught you?

Yunli: lol yeye taught me about war strategies most of the time.

Xiaobao: same thing.

To be continued........

[menghulijing]

Old chapter ~

[menghulijing]

Rusong encounters a grown Guzi

Pine Pavillion 📍

After overseeing training for both fox spirits and Qin sect members, Rusong sits in his conference room waiting for his hostage.

Ouyang Zizhen: *walks in* Dianxia, the second part of the Yin group were stabbed in Baling. And I got news that Jinfeng Zun and team had successfully did the same to the main branch.

Rusong: That's good.

The Yin group is heavily networked. Communicating across cities. But it seemed like they don't know that the Baling Ouyang sect is allied with us.

Ouyang Zizhen: pfft! Amateurs.

Rusong: You did an amazing job, by the way.

Ouyang Zizhen: It's my duty to assist you.

*giggling in his mind* (Dianxia acknowledged me! Heeheeheehee)

Thereafter, the Qins dragged a bound Guzi in. During their journey, he kept on trying to control passersby and activate fierce corpses so they had constantly bind him with qi binding ropes.

Shanxiao: Greetings Taizi. I mean Qin Zongzhu.

Rusong: *smiles in satisfaction*

Shanxiao: This guy keeps breaking the seal!

Rusong: *closes fan* Really? Wait. Let me fix it. *binds him with his own qi power, which was a lot more powerful*

There you go.

Yanqing: I would've stabbed him already, if only you haven't ordered to keep him alive. But don't worry, I've used my new customized sword wisely.

Rusong: Excellent. Yea, I knew you would have.

Do you all know about the peripheral members of team dimple? Qi Rong and Zhaoyi from Fufeng. My family and I acknowledge Qi Rong for his service.

But Gui Gongye here, had committed an offense.

Yanqing: His dad was a part of team dimple?!

But why am I not surprised.

Shanxiao: He has a kind of Xue yang-esque to him.

And he hates his uncle for some reason.

Gongyi Xiao: Shall we ungag him? Guzi has the right to give his own account.

Rusong: Why is he gagged in the first place?

Shanxiao: I know he would've gone on and on about himself, and then say it again when he arrives here. I was afraid I might qi deviate. Dianxia, you know I rather talk with my sword.

Rusong: *Laughs* It's fine! Not much people can handle all this banter. Anyways, ungag him and let me evaluate.

Then Huangdi will see you tomorrow, ok.

Guzi: *glares*

Rusong: *uses his power to make him nod*

A-Qing: He's so rude!

Rusong: Darling, He's tied up.

A-Qing: Could've fell flat on his face. He's not paralyzed, isn't he.

Gongyi Xiao: *ungags him*

Guzi: *coughs*

Now untie me.

Rusong: I don't think that's necessary.

Guzi: You like to see me tied up?

Rusong: Yes, pretty much.

Gui Gongye. Welcome to Pine Pavillion.

Guzi: Greetings Rusong! Did you say you like to see me tied up?! How kinky.

Your Pine Pavillion is opulent. What a disrespect to poor people.

A-Qing: Taizi Dianxia! Have respect!

Guzi: Agh!! I can't!

A-Qing: What do you mean that his opulence is disrespectful? You want him to be a street dweller?!

Rusong: Guzi, if you didn't know, my Meng Family had helped their people and eliminated classism.

*opens fan*  Qin Zongzhu is fine. We can't waste time.

So you want the collection of turmoil?

Guzi: Would you give it to me? I promise I'll return it. After I write it down of course.

Rusong: It's off limits. Sorry.

Guzi: Why is it!!!

Rusong: I don't make the rules, Gongye. Now I advise you to end your pursuits. It won't get you anywhere.

Guzi: I don't understand your system, where you give orders and expect everyone to obey. *scoffs* Yea it's hot, but impractical.

Rusong: Well that's the thing when you have authority. And it's everyone else's duty to conform.

Don't you worry. I'll make sure you do.

Guzi: *laughs* Waw. Rusong. Well said.

And who's that over there? She's making me jealous.

Though you're spoilt, you're still hot.

A-Qing: You dare call him spoilt?! He is your Taizi! Insult him again and I'll Lingchi you.

You should be grateful to even be in his presence!

Guzi: Lingchi me? Ahaha!

I thought you were the soft type.

A-Qing: What make you think that?

Guzi: You're dressed like a gift wrapper.

A-Qing: Excuse me?! I'm at the height of fashion, mind you!

Guzi: Fiesty Taizifei you got there

Rusong: Guzi, she is like a sword. Shiny but sharp.

Don't mess with A-Qing.

Guzi: Fine!

Ouyang Zizhen: Why do you keep bringing up his hotness.

Yes, I know it's an obvious observation but you're his hostage.

Guzi: I love it how he hunted me down, tied me up and made me nod to him. Plus he's a literal supermodel.

Rusong: *sigh* I'm treating you like a hostage. There's nothing flirtatious about that.

Guzi: Feel free to make it flirtatious.

Rusong: What to do with you. *gestures his servants to serve him tea* Do tell me about your backstory, my Qin members kept referencing.

Guzi: Oh finally then. That's wise of you to order tea.

Rusong: *sips* you have my full attention.

Guzi: I've regained the menory of my past, Before I was adopted by Qi Rong, I was abused at a tender age. Even though A-Die called me a failure constantly, he still loved me I guess. I don't know what that is.

I do his bidding anywaus!

He also let me eat people as a treat.

Haha, get it?! Treat? Sorry, my humor is broken.

He is a part of team dimple! And have even joked about me working for you. Huh.

Rusong: You seem to have a tough, misunderstood life. Continue.

Guzi: My dad's weak cousin took all the spotlight! In addition, he was abused by his aunt.

This caused him a lot of turmoil, you see. He had become an outcast! A scum!

Someone who's not worthy of affection.

Therefore, I wanted to get my hands on the collection of turmoil. To avenge him.

I've heard that the turmoil had become so powerful with Fox spirit cultivation.

Rusong: Though I sympathize with you, the collection of turmoil is still banned from the public. Try doing something else that will fulfill your filial act.

Now go chill in the dungeon until Huangdi summons you.

Guzi: Dimple, why can't Huangdi see me now? I don't think imprisonment is necessary.

Wait. You want me to be imprisoned, Dimple? Oh my goodness.

Rusong: Well we can't have a cannibalistic criminal running around, can we.

Guzi: But aren't your hulijings cannibalistic too?

Rusong: Well played.

They eat the pancreas, qi and core, for you info.

Guzi: Also, dimple, if Huangdi can command even Bai Renshou, it can split the Jianghu in two. And that's what I want to do.

Rusong: Power comes with responsibility.

Guzi: Who told you I'm not responsible, dimple?

Gongyi Xiao: (Meng Huangdi commands Bai Renshou?)

Rusong: What do you do, other than conspire?

Guzi: I rule the undead, cult stuff, eat people, gossip. And yes, I'm an alchemist.

Russong: Mn.

Guzi: I love making poison.

Rusong: You seem resourceful.

Guzi: Do you want a hitman?

Rusong: Not at the moment.

Guzi: *grins* I can prove how resourceful I am, if you give me a chance.

Dimple, how about you forget about prison. I can be of much use to you. Dimple.

After all we've been through? I've told you about my tragic backstory!

Rusong: That's why you won't be beaten in prison. You'll only be detained.

Guzi: Generosity. I like that. But I prefer you beat me up. A little adrenaline is always ideal, and it's said to build character.

Rusong: Be thankful.

Guzi: Release me first!

Rusong: The only person to decide your faith is Huangdi himself.

Guzi: What is Huangdi busy with?!

I think its because of that, that Su Xichen! Hanguang Jun or Jin Yang....Jiang Yang. Whatever their names are.

Rusong: He is doing his imperial duties! How dare you meddle.

You're dismissed. See you later.

Guzi: aren't you coming to see me chained? I know you like those kinds of things.

Rusong: When have I said that?!

I've had enough of you.

Yanqing, take him away.

Yanqing: Right away.

Guzi: Pay me a visit, ok?

Rusong: no.

~~~

A-Qing: He's just as annoying as Xue yang.

Rusong: I know right.

A-Qing: Why don't you lingchi him right away?

Rusong: it's impractical, darling. As a future emperor, I must listen to the plee of criminals sometimes.

A-Qing: Ah.

Gongyi Xiao: *bows* Dianxia.

Rusong: *smiles* Jinfeng zun. I commend you on your work.

Gongyi Xiao: Thank you, Dianxia.

Rusong: I'll surely reward you in the future, once you keep it up.

Gongyi Xiao: I'm happy to hear that I pleased you. It is indeed an honour to be a part of your entourage and offer my service.

I'll be humble to your rewards, Taizi.

Rusong: And I'm happy to have you! Let's walk and talk.

Gongyi Xiao: Lead the way.

Rusong: A-Qing, I'll be back.

A-Qing: Mn. Will wait for you here.

Rusong: Jinfeng zun. Have you been to other parts of the Jianghu?

Moling, Gusu, Lanling?

Gongyi Xiao: I've been to Lanling! And of course Yunping, along witj you.

I heard that Moling is the city of democracy. Why is it called that?

Rusong: It's where all clan leaders meet their Xiandu, and decide to work a one force. Meng Huangdi is also there to oversee the conference.

Moling has become more of a strong cult, as there are Meng Huangdi shrines.

Some people would even carry around statues of their Huangdi.

And of course, the Moling Su clan governs all, untill Hua becomes their Wanghou.

Gongyi Xiao: Oh, that's cool. So does it change, when she's the Wanghou?

Rusong: Nop. Xiandu will continue his operations as normal. The functioning of Moling Su and the broader Jianghu.

Gongyi Xiao: I see.

.

Rusong: As Qin Zongzhu, I had to sit in the conference like every other clan leader.

Gongyi Xiao: That's humble of you.

Rusong: I must.

Laoling Qin is a part of the Jianghu, that's led by Xiandu.

Your clan should join! Xiandu and A-Die are always interested in foreign clans joining.

Gongyi Xiao: Good idea.

Dianxia, may I ask you something?

Rusong: What?

Gongyi Xiao: While we were on the hunt, we heard about Bai Renshou. And now now Guzi said that Huangdi can command him.

Not that I'm suspecting Huangdi for anything, but. I was just curious.

Rusong: A-Die can control whatever he likes. You think he's in control of Bai Renshou?

Gongyi Xiao: Coincidentally, the corpse had killed Borisin forces.

Rusong: Well that's what it is. A coincidence.

Now please, don't bring up this question up again.

Gongyi Xiao: But I was confused as to why us cultivators should control these fierce corpses. Does it go against our job.

Rusong: That's the difference between cultivators and fox spirits. We are free to do anytning.

Nonetheless, If A-Die has a part to play or not, he's the emperor and can do whatever he wants. Do you have a problem?

Gongyi Xiao: Not at all, Taizi. Pardon.

I just wanted to know the mystery behind it.

Rusong: Being an escort to my sister doesn't give you the right to meddle in affairs.

*opens fan* We'll speak later. *walks off*

Gongyi Xiao: *sighs*

Why did I mess that up. My job will be at stake.

[menghulijing]

Beijiang 📍

Gongyi Xiao, Qin Shanxiao and Yanqing, and a few other Qin troops, were on a day hunt. But something seemed different in Beijiang. People were whispering and gossiping amongst themselves, while some walked cautiously. The masked fox spirits however had an unusual pep in their step, as a sign of resilience. Well, that's obvious, because of their recent victories.

The group (Gongyi Xiao and associates) were investigating a certain group that plans to obtain the collection of turmoil and make their own version. Being tied to the legendary Meng Huangdi, it became the most powerful score in the Jianghu.

Yanqing: Do you think they know anything about that Yin group?

Gongyi Xiao: Nah. It seems bigger than that. I'm curious.

Yanqing: Speaking of curiosity and drama. Did you confess to Gongzhu yet?

Gongyi Xiao: Shhhh!

Qin Shanxiao: Y...you what? Confess to Gongzhu? Which one?

Gongyi Xiao: Yanqing!

Yanqing: Sorry. I forgot that it was supposed to be a secret. And Qin Shanxiao doesn't know!

Gongyi Xiao: *facepalms* I'm so dead. So so dead. And out of anyone from the Qin sect, you said it in front of Taizi's stooge.

Shanxiao: *gasps* I'm not a stooge! *crosses arms* Well, i do admit that I daydream about Taizi Dianxia, i mean Zongzhu and will do anything for him. And I report messages to him.

It doesn't make me a stooge!

Yanqing: Is team dimple your teachers?

Shanxiao: I haven't gotten that privilege yet!

Gonyi Xiao: I advise you to keep quiet about it, ok. I'm fond of Taihua Gongzhu.

Shanxiao: Awwww.

Yanqing: Yea he's crazy for her.

Shanxiao: Taihua Gongzhu isn't an ordinary hulijing you know.

And you have to face the Mengs.

Is this the reason why you wanted to work for Dianxia.

Gongyi Xiao: No no! I genuinely wanted to work for Dianxia. Working in the fox spirit empire and the Great Clan Jianghu were always a great interest of mine.

But when I saw her, I couldnt stop admiring her beauty. And not only beauty alone, but she's very interesting and kindhearted. Talented.

Yanqing: Told you he's crazy in love.

Mengs again.

Shanxiao: Once you fall in love with a Meng, there's no turning back.

Gongyi Xiao: So I've heard.

Suddenly something caught their attention. Blade marks on the walls and talismans on front doors.

Gongyi Xiao: Talismans for fierce corpses. But they're doubled. Would we not know about a powerful corpse in this area.

Shanxiao: Huangdi has a massive watchtower here, plus Meng Gongye Luo Binghe resides here.

Gongyi Xiao: Binghe???

Shanxiao: You know him?

Gongyi Xiao: Yea. But how is he Meng Gongye?

Shanxiao: Taihou made his dad her concubine, so he automatically became Gongye.

Gongyi Xiao: Ohhhh.

He might know about the Yin group.

Thereafter, Qin Shanxiao stopped a passerby named Lao Fen.

Shanxiao: Greetings passerby. I'm representing Laoling Qin.

Can you tell us about these markings? They're really strange.

Lao Fen: Gongzi....t..there's a fierce corpse who started appearing here often. *trembling* He comes on a grey horse made of smoke, with a blade.

The corpse doesn't hurt anyone really. Last night it's head hopped inside someone's house, looking for sticky rice.

He must've been a hungry ghost.

As a mortal, I heard that the hulijings believe that those types cover up their guilt by eating.

Yanqing: Yikes! Imagine that head next to your bed at night.

Gongyi Xiao: Or in your bath tub.

Lao Fen: that's my same fear! There's this couple who were badmouthing the emperor and the head rushed them outside to meet the rest of the monster.

Shanxiao: Wow!!

*it finally clicked to him* Wait...Zongzhu warned my sect and I about this. Is he the Bai Renshou?

Lao Fen: Correct! Us mortals don't know anything about the cultivators or fox spirits. I just heard from village gossip.

I gotta go.

Gongyi Xiao: Who's Bai Renshou?

Shanxiao: Zongzhu had just told us to look out and don't fight him.

Gongyi Xiao: But it's our job to fight fierce corpses and demons.

Yanqing: the Mengs and Jianghu's clan leaders are keeping an eye on Bai Renshou.

Gongyi Xiao: Well at least they are.

Huangdi will protect his people with his watchtowers.

Yanqing: Exactly. As for our task.

Shanxiao: Teahouses. We much check the teahouses for the Yin group.

I figured that they'll be there with the crowd.

Bai Renshou is the talk of the town this week.

Gongyi Xiao: Excellent.

Yanqing: We'll go incognito.

Furthermore, they entered a notorious "

"Teahouse", under a low profile. But to their surprise, they met up Luo Binghe sitting and being served by his new concubines and the imitation Shen jiu who's actually a hulijing.

Shang Qinghua: This is a priva-- Hey Gongyi Xiao, what are you doing here?!

Binghe: *looks up* Gongyi.....Xiao?

Ohh look who. You finally want to resell Huan Hua palace to me.

I'm not interested.

I was upset at first, but Shizun told me not to be.

Shanxiao: He still listens to his Shizun.

Yanqing: *sigh* Yea.

Gongyi Xiao: Meng Gongye. I was just passing by. I didn't know that this place was private. There's such a crowd here.

Binghe: *laughing* I made it private, by holding the storyteller hostage aand forcing him to talk about Shizun instead.

Huang ge forbade unnecessary investigations on Bai Renshou's identity.

Storyteller: *bound with a glowing rope* Shen Qingqiu was cruel but a very just teacher.

Binghe: WRONG!!! *throws a teacup at him* START OVER!

And why isn't anyone asking questions! Ask!

I'll order Mobei Jun to give you frostbites.

Ehem. As we were saying. Ah Shizun, you look so hot. *smiles* I think I'm gonna cook for you later.

"Shen Jiu": Oh you flatter me! Please don't.

Binghe: I must, darling Shizun.

Gongyi Xiao: Um..Meng Gongye.

Binghe: Don't interrupt me. Shizun amd I are flirting.

"Shen Jiu": Just listen to the guy.

Binghe: As you wish.

So dreamy! *props his head* I love it when you roll your eyes at me.

Gongyi Xiao: I work for Dianxia. And, do you know a Yin group?

Where to find them?

Binghe: Thr Yin group are rogues lead by some delinquent. He thinks that just because his dad is a peripheral part of team dimple, he can do whatever.

Yanqing: Then why does he want the collection of turmoil! He dare be unfilial, knowing that his dad is a peripheral team d member!

Binghe: he's complex you know.

Other than being a part of team dimple, his dad is also a calamity. I knew him, because I was sort of on the path to becoming one myself.

Ever since Huang ge had altered and added scores to the collection of turmoil, he can do anything with it. Even manipulate time and history if he wished, or have people live in a constant illusion.

It's tied to Huangdi and his Fox Obsidian.

Probably Guzi wants his diedie to get a better life.

Gongyi Xiao: That's kind of tragic if it's true.

Shanxiao: Where to find them?

Binghe:  They're always at the cheapest restaurant. Ironically that's the first restaurant to get newspaper prints. Fenghua inn.

Gongyi Xiao: Thank you.

~~~

Qi Rong's son Guzi and his Yin group were in the place they were said to be. Fenghua. But little did they know, that Fenghua was one of many restaurant fronts where the staff were spies. Meng Huangdi had opened them across the empire to reduce crimes and conspiracy.

Guzi, other than his companions, wad pretty stylish; donning a black cape, gold accessories and a green undergarment.

Whenever he enters a room, people tremble in fear and turn away, or start quietly gossiping.

No wonder Binghe didn't fancy him. Binghe wanted to be the only commanding voice in Beijiang city, and he's cranking his style.

However, Qi Rong was (and maybe is still) a peripheral part of team dimple, who's absolutely crazy for Meng Huangdi. As expected of a team dimple member.

(In the previous book) He had built the Huxian Temple in honour of Guangyao.

He then left for other endeavors after that. Also, the selection of Shi Qingxuan as Meng Huangdi's concubine had a part to play in it. Meng Huangdi just wanted to make his concubine feel comfortable at all times.

Guzi is just about Rusong's age, maybe a little older, and he still likes to eat people from time to time. But he vowed only to eat his hostages! He isn't at all vengeful of Meng Huangdi, but vengeful of his "family" for mistreating Qi Rong.

Guzi had become 

Despite his entourage looking poor, he's actually a ruthless ghost ruler who governs Qi Rong's underlings.

Luckily, he is still in touch with Qi Rong and also plans to repay Lang Qianqiu for taking care of him.

Gongye Gongye!! I got a solution! We can gangster the Lans a little, to re write the collection of turmoil for us.

Guzi: Come closer.

Yes Gongzi.

Guzi: *punches him in the face! Then he pulled daggers from his sleeves*

Ahhh Gui Gongye! Gui Gongyei! I'm sorry!! Please be calm!

Guzi: I don't know if this one of Yao Huxian's spy cafes!

Keep your voice low!

Y....yes. Gongzi!

Guzi: And what do you mean "ask the Lans" ?! You want my plans to be foiled!

Suddenly, Some Qin sect members rushed in and started fighting with the Yin group. Yanqing, in his sword lust, went on a stabbing spree, which caused ordinary customers to evacuate the building, whereas Shanxiao faught alongside him and the Qins.

Gongyi Xiao: *unsheaths his sword*

Guzi: What's Rusong doing here?!!

Gongyi Xiao: Jinfeng zun, Gongyi Xiao. And he's Taizi Dianxia. Have respect.

Guzi: Oh right. I dont see the dimples. *goes to stab him*

Gongyi Xiao: *dodges, then pushed him away with his qi*

Guzi: Agh! I would never say that title!

My uncle has the same!

Shanxiao: What does your uncle has to do with this?

Guzi: Why must you meddle in my affairs?

Shanxiao: *ties him up with qi binding ropes*

Guzi: Oh come on! We could've faught some more.

*grins* Are you tired?

Shanxiao: You Yin group is killed off, bro.

Guzi: So? Do they control my arms and legs?

Now where's your leader? I know he's obsessed with me.

Yanqing: How dare you! Dianxia doesn't even think about you! Until you tried to get your hands on the collection of turmoil.

Guzi: Why is he so selfish then? Obviously Huangdi had taught him. He should share it to the public.

Yanqing: He never will!

Guzi: Want to hear my backstory? I promise it's good.

If you're into tragedies.

Gongyi Xiao: You can tell Dianxia.

Guzi: Ah, finally! I thought you losers would never bring me to your dear dear leader. *laughing*

For the time being, I'll still narrate my backstory to you.

Shanxiao: *gags him* No you won't!

Gongyi Xiao: Savage.

Shanxiao: Honestly I don't want to qi deviate.

[menghulijing]

The Meng siblings and their Shizun.

Featuring Chu Wanning.

Esteemed Shizuns, Shen Jiu and Chu Wanning enjoyed each other's company by engaging in conversation and playing the guqin. They were actually waiting for Shen Jiu's Meng students at his personal residence in Jing Manor's compound.

Chu Wanning: How did you learn so much about this Jianghu?

Shen Jiu: Effortless study and observation. They're so dramatic and well structured.

Chu Wanning: Certainly. They have their own dramas going on in their clans.

The other day, I went to the Zigong Bai sect in Meishan and they were arguing about Baling Ouyang's prominence.

Shen Jiu: Yes. The Ouyang sect seems like it's growing. Obviously, because he's Dianxia's concubine and he's putting a lot of work in it.

The Zigong Bai sect is just afraid that they would make them a subsidiary.

Chu Wanning: I don't think Ouyang Zongzhu would do that. He isn't the greedy type. Well. He he doesn't appear to be.

Shen Jiu: That's true. Zigong Bai is just jealous.

Su Xiandu must solve the conflict.

If he's not too busy causing chaos with team dimple.

Aha, I'm only teasing. He's an effective Xiandu. When he's not chaotic with them.

Chu Wanning: I see.

Have you ever thought of doing it yourself? How long was he Xiandu?

Shen Jiu: Ever since Huangdi merged the two Jianghus. Fox spirit and Jianghu. Hence the the role of Xiandu had expanded. It was the link between Huangdi and his Jianghu.

Yes. I've had my dreams, but haven't thought of the role deeply.

Chu Wanning: Quite an honour.

You should definitely run. If Huangdi proposing a Xiandu selection.

Shen Jiu: Mn. But that's a lot of hard work.

I don't support this nepotism garbage, where the rich and famous gets everything. I'm not like the other concubines.

Probably this is why I like Su Xiandu. He wasn't rich, popular nor powerful, but genuinely loyal. To Meng Huangdi. *laughs* Not to Gusu Lan.

Chu Wanning: I've realised that the Mengs don't care about it. And you have an upperhand on the rest of concubines then!

Shen Jiu: Exactly!

Chu Shixiong, you're motivating me! Stop. Hahahaha!

Tell me, how's Shi mei? Still yandere, I suppose. And what do you do as Mo Ran's concubine??

Chu Wanning: Shi Mei and Hua Binan are in Kongque I believe. But I haven't seen them in a while.

Shen Jiu: So you got a restraining order?

Chu Wanning: Nop.

Shen Jiu: Huh. It would've came in handy. But who am I to judge. I don't have one either.

Chu Wanning: Empress Song hates my guts, Rongjiu is a Meng now. And yes, Mo Ran has countless other concubines who were maybe forgotten.

Shen Jiu: Seriously??? It sounds almost like Binghe's harem.

Chu Wanning: It's kind of on the toxic side. Yea.

Shen Jiu: What is wrong with our students.

Chu Wanning: I don't have a clue.

Shidi, You know, I was touring the Jianghu! So after Zigong Bai, I visited Gusu, and the fox spirits mistook me for Hanguang Jun.

Shen Jiu: oh shit! The hulijings are kind of bias towards him you know. What did they say to you?

Chu Wanning: "Taihou doesn't like you, but i do." "Treason!". "Lan Guifei?". "Ask Taihou for forgiveness and lighten up more!" And something along the lines of "Where is your headband? Did you leave it around Wei Wuxian's leg?"

Shen Jiu: *laughs* OMG!!!

As expected of them!

Chu Wanning: I asked one of the fox spirits who's in charge of Gusu and Caiyi, and they bluntly said Meng Huangdi.

Shen Jiu: Nah. They won't give you a structure. Plus they're entitled sometimes and I root for them!

Chu Wanning: And they still write about other clan leaders in a gossipy way. What do they mean by Jiang Zongzhu being a lotus farmer? Was he?

Shen Jiu: Never.

Chu Wanning: Nie Mingjue was crazy and impractical. And was entirely jealous of Huangdi.

Team dimple are superior.

Shen Jiu: Fox spirit and team dimple propaganda. You'll get used to it.

You'll see a lot, during the Sunshot Aniversery week that's next month.

Chu Wanning: Interesting.

Moling is also unique!

Mingfan: *enters* Greetings, Shizun!

Shen Jiu: Mingfan. Glad you're here.

Where are the Mengs?

Mingfan: Will arrive shortly.

Virya: *rushes in afterwards* Shizun! Shizun! Sorry I'm late!

Shen Jiu: It's fine. Chu Shixiong and I were just passing time.

Mingfan: Legendary!

*sits*

Virya: What's my lesson today?

Shen Jiu: We'll start with the four arts, for discipline.

Virya: ok. That sounds fun.

~

A few minutes later, they've arrived! Rusong and his siblings, as well as Ning Yingying and A-Qing.

Xiaobao: *waving with his fan* Shizun! Shizun hiii!!!

And greetings Chu Shizun.

Shen Jiu: Ah, A-Bao. What's up? I heard you were flirting.

Xiaobao: *gasps*  Where did you hear that from?

Shen Jiu: From Taizi Dianxia.

Xiaobao: Song ge?!

Rusong: me?!

Ning Yingying: Shizun, I don't think Dianxia noticed. He was busy dancing with me.

Shen Jiu: Aha! I knew you were a simp.

Ning Yingying: *pouts*

A-Qing: I was kissing Rusong, so.

Shen Jiu: Ok ok. Rusong's advocate and alibi.

Rusong: Once I gossip, no one would know, A-Bao.

Jingyi: And as you know, I'm the opposite. I'm quicker to tell Shizun.

Xiaobao: You can tell Shizun after.

Jingyi: After you poison his mind?

Taihua: Shizun, Song ge told me so much about you!

Xiaoyu: Is it true that you enjoy the suffering of team dimple!

Shen Jiu: I rather say misadventures. But yes. It makes me laugh.

Taihua: What did they do to you!

Rusong: They took up all of A-Die's attention.

Xiaoyu: How stressful. But I thought that team d always succeed?

Shen Jiu. They do, they do. But they're petty and get carried away.

Please, Mengs, and simps. Have a seat.

Rusong: Sure.

Xiaobao: Thank you, Shizun.

Shen Jiu: My apprentice should sit closer and present my homework.

Xiaobao: *looks at him innocently*

Jingyi: He didn't get any work done, after the hangover.

Xiaobao: Shhhhh!

Mingfan: Your Dianxia privileges may not work.

Cuifen: Yea, and especially how you're not the baby Dianxia of the family anymore.

I AM! *grins*

Xiaobao: A-Fen, are you roasting me?!

Cuifen: A little. It builds character.

Shen Jiu: This child smiles just like his dad.

Cuifen: I'm 13! I'm not a child!

Xiaoyu: You're a literal fetus.

Cuifen: I will contact my lawyer.

Jingyi: And who's that?

Cuifen: Song dage!

Rusong: Oh no.

How much are you paying me?

Cuifen: I'm still very young, dage.

Rusong: *laughing*

Virya: (The Mengs are so cheerful together.

And Xiaoyu Gongzhu is so pretty. Despite being the only one without dimples)

Shen Jiu: Taizifei, how are you?

A-Qing: I'm great. Are you still a fan of mine?

Shen Jiu: Of course, Taizifei. I will never stop.

Rusong: Who doesn't like her? *shows off his dimples*

Ning Yingying: Ahh, Dianxia is adorable.

On the other hand, Mingfan seemed to be caught looking at Rusong as well.

Mingfan: Shimei and A-Qing look so good with Dianxia.

And Dianxia in return is such a supermodel.

Rusong: *raises his brows in Mingfan's direction*

Mingfan: No, I wasn't staring at you!

I was going to ask you.....if you can....play the guqin. Yea.

Rusong: Obviously Mingfan. You've seen me play the guqin countless times.

Ning Yingying: Why is he acting so awkward.

Mingfan: (Shimei might beat me up if I call Dianxia attractive. He's always off limits.)

Rusong: Virya, how are you going? Come chat with us.

Virya: I'm ok. Thank you, Taizi.

Cuifen: Do you guys eat hulijings?

Rusong: A-Fen.

Virya: He's kinda correct. The really brutal ones though.

Cuifen: Oh my goodness!

Virya: And how are you fox spirits like?

Ning Yingying: Fox spirits are beautiful.

Here's Dianxia for example.

Xiaobao: And meeee!

Virya: Agreed. The Mengs are a beautiful bunch, and I saw some good looking hulijings around Shanxi.

But is it true that they're good at sewing and fashion?

Rusong: Absolutely. We have the largest fabric industry.

Virya: Sharp, red nails seem to be all the rage here too. In both male and female.

Rusong: Yea, only for the wealthy. You can't really strenuous labour with long nails.

Red and black are for the rich and high class, and pink is middle classed.

Shen Jiu: Classism in fashion it seems. But it makes sense and doesn't discriminate against anyone.

Virya: Interesting.

Rusong: We use nails to communicate too. Clear means single, dark red is married and white is available and seeking.

As well as one dot for menstruation.

Virya: Oh. And what's the difference among hulijings, Foxians,, Gumihos and Kitsunes.  

Shen Jiu: Geological difference. And that causes their power, fashion and way of life, to vary.

Virya: I need to learn some more.

Shen Jiu: How about you go into the town. To learn from the ways of hulijings from observation. My apprentices Xiaobao and Mingfan will accompany you.

Xiaobao: Yes!! Rest assured, Shizun!! I'll take him to the best places, which are my personal favs. I go there with Song ge all the time. And Song ge is thr future emperor, so you know it's legit.

Shen Jiu: San Dianxia, I'm not asking you to take him on a shopping spree or a vacation.

Xiaobao: pfft. Shizun. I know that.

Cuifen: I'm coming with. San ge. I have some things to buy.

Xiaobao: What?

Cuifen: A few pendants and artwork for my collection. You'll see.

Xiaobao: Aww!

I hope I'm not sponsoring you.

Cuifen: Nah, not today. I know Shizun asked you to show Virya around.

Wait, Virya, what's your surname?

Virya: Us Borisins don't have any.

Cuifen: Oh, I see.

That's still fine!

Xiaobao: Let's go! Byeee Song ge

Rusong: See you later A-Bao.

Taihua: Shizun, can you give me some tips on being a Wanghou?

Shen Jiu: Don't listen to anyone!

*laughs* Just kidding.

Always be open to advice, but go with one that aligns with your beliefs. 

Taihua: Ah. And Shizun. I got the privilege of observing A-Die as Huangdi.

Shen Jiu: Well that's good.

Huangdi is a just leader.

Taihua: Mhm.

Shen Jiu: Just be iconic, and don't tolerate any sort of corruption.

Taihua: Ok then. I'll remember your words. Soon I'll be visiting Moling Su clan, and Suyin is my future advisor.

Shen jiu: That's excellent! And you're in good hands.

He's Su Xiandu's cousin, you see.

Taihua: Marvelous! I would like to get some more women in powerful positions as well. But I don't know who yet. Xiaoyu will be a mainstream imperial scholar.

Shen Jiu: Thr right court members will come.

Jingyi: Shizun, i also have some Gusu Wang preparations to do. Any advice for me?

Shen Jiu: Stay free like the wind. And don't listen to Lan Qiren.

Jingyi: Perfect!!

Rusong: Told you he's a genius.

Taihua: Indeed. Shizun, Song ge. Xiaoyu and I have to go meet Nainai, ok. See you later.

Rusong: See you later, Huahua and Yuyu.

Shen Jiu: It was nice speaking to you two Gongzhus

~~

A-Qing: Shizun, do you promise not to freak out after we ask you this?

Shen Jiu: Taizifei, I've heard, seen and experienced worst.

Rusong: Yea, but promise us.

Shen Jiu: Ok fine. I promise, Taizi. What's up?

Rusong: Well A-Qing and I are a young couple.

A-Qing: And we want to learn about sex education and aphrodisiacs! And yes,  we've had sex already, but with protection.

Shen Jiu: *gasps* oh dear lord.

Jingyi: You are planning to have kids?

Rusong: Eventually. Before we become the talk of the imperial court.

Shen Jiu: How shall I start?

Rusong: We'll we've covered the basis of sex, so.

A-Qing: Tell us about the aphrodisiacs. Yingying said you had 20 species of them. And 45 delicacies invented by Binghe.

Shen Jiu: Yingying!

Ning Yingying: Shizun, it was for research purposes.

Rusong: and please, tell us about parenthood afterwards. How should I juggle it when I become Huangdi. A-Die had his maids, concubines and A-Niang babysit me when he was busy. Then he would just have me in his office, with a maid, of course. Or team dimple.

Shen Jiu: Ah. I'll explain everything.

You both are Cultivating during sex, meaning that you're sharing and transferring energy. Like a mortal, you'll  obviously get pregnant without protection. A-Qing, your body will soon het ready to hold a fox spirit baby some day!

A-Qing: Aww!

Rusong: I understand. So what else?

How does Mpreg happen?

Shen Jiu: Everyone has Yin, feminine, and Yang, masculine energy. If a male's yin is really high and matches with a female's Yin. He will get pregnant instead.

If there are two males, it's said that the one with the higher Yin will get pregnant.

It's the same for two women, but it's Yang instead of Yin.

Rusong: That's really interesting.

Jingyi: And what if the two guys have High Yang energy? Or Yin?

Shen Jiu: It will regulate overtime. But they will fight.

Jingyi: Ahahaha! I love the sound of that! A little drama is good.

Shen Jiu: Same. Let them fight and then kiss.

Rusong: As they should.

Shen Jiu: So do you two want an aphrodisiac or? 

A-Qing: Just for the experience!

But the i get all my satisfaction from Rusong.

Rusong: Shizun, we'll tell you when.

Shen Jiu: *cracks up*

Jingyi: I wonder if that Insense Burner is still off limits. It was even banned from Wangxian, but I heard that Hanguang Jun still sneaks it in.

Rusong: Ugh! We don't want to get drugged.

That's so unexpected of Hanguang Jun.

Jingyi: Hanguang Jun would never do that! And if he did, there would be a reason.

Shen Jiu: Of course there is. He wanted to drug his sidepiece. Everyone knows that.

A-Qing: Shizun, we'll tell you when.

Rusong: Yea. Thanks for explaining it to us.

A-Qing: *looks lovingly at her Rusong.* Rusong.

Rusong: A-Qing. *smiles*

Jingyi: I don't think you two need an aphrodisiac, honestly.

Rusong: Shizun, do you use it?

Shizun: Against my will! Yes!

Rusong: Let me guess. Bing Shu again?

Shen Jiu: *sigh* yes.

Rusong: Hmm. I could imagine.

Jingyi: Poor Shizun.

[menghulijing]

Qin Huanghou inspects Rusong's harem👏

Gongyi Xiaowas in his apartment on the Jing Manor compound painting his crush (Taihua). Both him and Taihua couldn't stop thinking about each other after Rusong's gala.

Suddenly, an infuriated voice yelled, "How dare you!" which made him turn around briskly.

Gongyi Xiao: You?!!

Yanqing: *cracking up*

Gongyi Xiao: You sounded like Dianxia!

Yanqing: That was the point!! You looked so scared!! Ahahaha!

Gongyi Xiao: *coughs* no. I didn't.

Yanqing: *sits* Hoiw are things?! I see you drawing Taihua Gongzhu.

Are you even more smitten?

Gongyi Xiao: I love her company. But, I think it's not right to have a crush in her.

She has her responsibilities, and what's expected of her.

And I've just arrived. I barely made a year.

Yanqing: Tough. I don't think love have boundaries, Shidi.

Look at Taizifei. She was ordinary. She wasn't even a cultivator and she was crazy for Dianxia.

Huangdi grew up in a brothel but Qin Huanghou didn't care at all.

Gongyi Xiao: You have a point.

But, do you think Hua loves me back?

Yanqing: Ah, i don't know for sure.

Hmm.....you're a sect leader and a lieutenant....you got a name from Huangdi himself. If I were her, I would've married you instantly! But then the Mengs don't really care about status. Yes, status is important, but they rather the powerful people come to them without trying.

The Mengs are very mysterious.

Gongyi Xiao: I heard that they attract beauty and power.

Yanqing: Yep. They do.

But you're a handsome person. And qualified too!

Gongyi Xiao: Mhm. I see a positive image of myself already, and don't struggle with insecurities.

I just don't want to dishonour Taizi and Gongzhu by lusting over her in my mind.

Yanqing: Pfft! Jinfeng zun. It's just a crush. And the purest one yet.

You're virtuous and upright.

Like Taizifei, you have an influential link.

Gongyi Xiao: Shen Qianbei?

You're right!! But I want to focus on my work, before I tell him.

I shouldn't rush things.

Yanqing: Yea.

Speaking of paste, you and Gongzhu can't have a secret affair. Huangdi must know about it.

So it's best to do it now, during this Meng Huangdi's reign.

Taizi Dianxia is absolutely protective of his sister and Qin Huanghou as Taihou may influence her prospective grooms if not chosen yet.

Plus, the future Rusong Huangdi might behead you.

MengYao Huangdi is known to be calculating and observant, but once he likes someone, he likes them. He will take time to evaluate. Taizi on the other hand is swift.

He's observant too, but he won't put you in a trap.

Gongyi Xiao: Huh. I guess Huangdi already sensed it then.

Yanqing: Like I said, once you can survive Meng Yao Huangdi, you can survive Taizi. And whatever Huangdi says goes!

~~

On the other hand in Pine Pavillion, Rusong's concubines were getting ready to be inspected by their Yuemu.

Ning Yingying: *pacing up and down* I'm so nervous. Ouyang Zongzhu, how could you be so calm?

Ouyang Zizhen: Don't be fooled by my calm demeanor. *sips* I'm actually screaming internally.

A-Qing: Guys, I have a backup plan if this goes south.

We'll just appease her with peaches.

Ning Yingying: Aw, I forgot that she loves peaches.

Ouyang Zizhen: I thought she loves mangoes?!

Rusong: *sighs fondly* Team dimple 2.0. Everything will be alright. You've seen A-Niang of countless occasions

And please don't bribe her with fruit.

Ning Yingying: Dianxia, what if we're not good enough for you. I promise I'll try harder. *hugs tightly* Dianxia.

Rusong: *cups face* My darling, you're flawless. Don't worry.

Ning Yingying: I can't live without you.

Ouyang Zizhen: Non of us can. *kisses*

A-Qing: Yea, we literally worship you. And that's why I'm not that nervous. Plus I can still try to bribe her with fruit.

Rusong: *laughs*

Afterwards, Qin Su and her entourage enters, and team dimple 2.0 bowed and greeted her*

Rusong: *bows* Greetings A-Niang. *kisses her hand fondly*

Qin Su: A-Song. *her lights up* how are you, baby?

Rusong: I'm doing great. What about you?

Qin Su: Equally great. *pats his head* I'm glad that my A-Song is happy.

Rusong: Please. Have a seat. Are you comfortable?

Qin Su: Yes, Song'er. Dont worry.

Rusong: *gestures to his staff, to serve her refreshments*

A-Niang, I've recently hired new cooks.

Qin Su: Oh how marvelous!

I believe they need to be changed.

Rusong: Yea.

Wang Lingjiao: *sits* Let the drama begin! So who's pregnant for Dianxia?

Sha Hualing: What if it's all three of them!

Wang Lingjiao: *cackles*

Bicao: You two are so immature! *rolls eyes* Plus, Taizi Dianxia would've told us already.

Wang Lingjiao: You're so old and practical. Loosen up a bit.

Qin Su: Oh don't call her old, Jiaojiao. She's indeed an old friend.

Wang Lingjiao: More like an old maid..

Bicao: I don't take any offense, Huanghou. I know I'm not the youngest, but that's my pride. I'm happy to serve Qin Huanghou.

Rusong: We all commend you, Cao Gugu.

(Bicao was there, since the former Madam Qin was pregnant with Qin Su. But she (Bicao) was about 14)

Wang Lingjiao: Shall I check to see if they're pregnant?

Qin Su: No.

*looks at the harem* What a beautiful trio.

A-Qing, you've promoted harmony. Good job.

A-Qing: Thank you, Yuemu.

Qin Su: Ouyang Zongzhu shall go up first.

Ouyang Zizhen: *kowtows* Huanghou.

Huanghou, I love your son!

Qin Su: Of course. If not, you wouldn't have been in the harem. Please stand and tell me what do you do for him?

Ouyang Zizhen: I'm his companion. We go on night hunts together, plan and just share each other's company. The Baling Ouyang clan is allied with Laoling Qin. Well always, but it's stronger now!

Qin Su: That's so good.

Wang Lingjiao: Did you go on a date with him? Like Taizi isn't ordinary.

Ouyang Zizhen: We've been on countless dates in Baling.

Qin Su: I see.

Sha Hualing: And you're still not pregnant?

Ouyang Zizhen: *sobs* I'm sorry!!

Huanghou, I have a Rusong Dianxia shrine you know. And I write about him.

Qin Su: Oh waw! You write about my son?

I didn't know you were a writer. And and as for the shrine-

Ouyang Zizhen: I know. It's weird. But I can explain.

Qin Su: No no. I'm used to it. Team dimple has a shrine for my Yao Huangdi.

I spend some time in there too.

Anyways, I wanted to say that it's remarkable. You must be richer than I've expected. *Sips tea*

Sha Hualing: Huanghou thought that you were poor.

Qin Su: I didn't say that.

Ouyang Zizhen: A-Die has always encouraged me to save. Ah, I used to hate his frugality, but I think I understand now. Don't worry, Huanghou, I won't be frugal with your son. I'll shower him with presents.

Qin Su: You say the correct things! And how's the former Ouyang Zongzhu?

Ouyang Zizhen: He's enjoying retirement! A-Die is doing mortal dad activities. Like fishing, gardening and stuff. Sometimes I can't recognize him! Knowing that he was this clan leader.

I'm glad he's much more relaxed.

Qin Su: His retirement sounds very very blissful.

Ouyang Zizhen: Somtimes he gives me guidance. Without quarreling.

Qin Su: As he should. Value his advice and guidance.

Sha Hualing: *whispers to Wang Lingjiao* She seem to like the young clan leader.

Wang Lingjiao: Because he's a clan leader.

Bicao: She's always around clan leaders, so it would be easier for her to connect.

Qin Su: Be more prominent, Ouyang guifei. Yao Huangdi and I will fund cultivator training and weaponry for Baling Ouyang.

Ouyang Zizhen: Thank you, Huanghou. And thanks to Huangdi. You both are so generous! I was actually freaking out before meeting you. But everything's ok now.

Qin Su: Aww! Ouyang Zongzhu, you didn't need to be. You're a sweetheart, and I'm glad to have a clan leader as my son-in-law.

Ouyang Zizhen: That's good, that's good.

Qin Su: A-Song, you need more clan leaders in your harem.

Rusong: Certainly, A-Niang. I'll have a selection when I ascend as emperor. But I can draft a list.

Qin Su: Mn. Ning Yingying, you're next..

Ning Yingying: Yuemu.

Qin Su: You're super cute. Tell me what you do.

Ning Yingying: I help Dianxia relax, by playing the guqin. And, for his party, we danced together.

Qin Su: Aww. That's very romantic! It reminds me of me and my Huangdi during our private time.

Ning Yingying: Really? Yuemu?!

Qin Su: Certainly.

You and A-Song were dancing in public?

Ning Yingying: Yes, Yuemu.

Rusong: I wanted to make dancing more public, A-niang.

Us Hulijings are dancers, but the cultivation world is a little too rigid. They need to loosen up a bit.

Qin Su: Brilliant, A-Song. You're right.

The Jianghu must loosen up and take inspiration from their Huangdi and future Huangdi.

Rusong: That's my point.

Ning Yingying: I'm in love with Rusong Dianxia.

Qin su: I totally see it, dear.

Sha Hualing: Any drama?

Wang Jingjiao: Taizi's harem is not as chaotic enough. I'm getting bored. Yingying, why don't you take Taizi for yourself.

A-Qing: Noo!! He's my Rusong! I mean, our Rusong!

Ning Yingying: As much as I'm crazy for Taizi, I could never. We all worship him.

Ouyang Zizhen: We're like the other version of team dimple. So maybe we'll chew out other harem members in the future.

Wang Lingjiao: Call me when there's a fight.

Qin Su: I kind of like it. There's only loyalty and no bitterness.

A-Qing,

Wang Lingjiao: So they're all friends? *scoffs*

Taizifei, dont lie.

A-Qing: Yep, we're all friends to be honest.

Sha Hualing: describe "friends"

Wang Lingjiao: They take turns with Rusong, if you know what I mean. Team dimple does the same with Yao Huangdi.

Sometimes I want a chance, but Huanghou forbade me.

Qin Su: Ah, let's ignore Jiaojiao. A-Qing. I know what you're forever by A-Song's side.

And I'm surprised that there's no drama!

Sha Hualing: Wait until Rusong Dianxia gets more concubines!

Ning Yingying: Sha Hualing, we're trying our best not to he like team dimple.

And they always give Shizun a hard time already.

Wang Lingjiao: *laughing* Yingying. Your Shizun is lying to you. He's the dramatic one in the harem, who dare upstage team dimple.

Ning Yingying: Never! My Shizun never lies!

Sha Hualing: He exaggerates the truth, as always.

Qin Su: Guys, Lord Shen is a darling. But yes, He is dramatic.

Bicao. Get them their gifts.

A-Qing: Gifts?! For us??

Qin Su: Yes. I'm pleased with you three.

So I've organised some things.

Qin Huanghou's personal maid as well as some attendants brought in some platters and boxes.

Qin Su: They're just some ornaments, Meng jewelry and priceless ceramics.

A-Qing, Ouyang Zongzhu, here you are. *hands them some papers*

A-Qing: Thank you, Yuemu. But what's this?

Qin Su: I got you a house in North Laoling.

15 rooms and a beautiful garden. It's called Tianrui

A-Qing: 15 rooms?!! My room in Jing Manor is huge enough, Yuemu.

Qin Su: You're Taizifei, A-Qing.

You need some property.

And for you, Yingying, you'll have the bamboo mansion in North Laoling as well.

It has 14 rooms.

A-Qing: Thank you, Yuemu. I feel so spoilt.

Ning Yingying: Thanks Yuemu! That sounds beautiful!

Qin Su: of course it is.

Ouyang Zizhen, I'll grant you land, and fund the building of subsidiaries for you.

Yao Huangdi is also very fond of you, so you have full permission to expand and do whatever you like.

Ouyang Zizhen: Thank you very much, Yuemu.

Qin Su: You three look very adorable with my Song'er. Please continue.

Ouyang Zizhen: Certainly! Yuemu, sorry, but we were gonna bribe you with fruits.

Qin Su: *cracks up* What?!

Wang Lingjiao: You three are concubines, not street vendors!

Sha Hualing: Qin Huanghou is very very powerful.

A-Qing: It was plan B. And it worked last time.

Ning Yingying: We knew you like peaches, so.

Rusong: I told them not to, honestly.

Qin Su: This is the basis of loving my son. The peaches may not work if I was displeased.

Ning Yingying: But aren't we cute?

Qin Su: *laughing* Yes yes! I'll give you that!

It would've been funny if you try!

[menghulijing]

Fierce Corpse Observatory 📍.

Meng Yao arrives with a handful of hulijings, while Team dimple worked on their experiment. The enclosed fierce corpse grounds however had a bunch of deactivated puppets just standing by.

The mysterious fierce corpse grew feral; growling and trying to break the chains, but Team dimple and their henchmen seemed to have him under control.

Xue yang: *grabs his neck* Corpsey, you'll meet your master soon! Calm down!

Mo Xuanyu: Um Yangyang, do we need to get him some clothes first?

Xue yang: Are you vegetarian?

Mo Xuanyu: No?

Su she: Disgusting! *yanks on the chains* Xue yang, I want him to be modest for Huangdi.

Xue yang: As if Jiggy didn't see him naked.

Su she: Xue yang.

Xue yang: Fine. He'll wear a black robe.

*orders his henchman*

Su she: Seeing Huangdi control this monster would be so satisfying.

Mo xuanyu: And really hot!

Xue yang: Jiggy will reward us if this goes well.

Su she: *turns red*

Mo xuanyu: Oh my goodness.

Shanshan, how's my makeup?! Do I smell good?

Su she: You're ok. But. Am I ok? *Fixes his clothes*

Xue yang: He's such a hottie.

Suyin: We're done dressing him.

Xue yang: Good. Drag him out.

~~

Meng Yao was now seated and attended to by his entourage of hulijings, then his most gruesome experiment caught his attention. His lips quickly curled into a satisfied smile and his eyes turned gold~ along with his fox spirits.

Yao: * stretches out his hand for his attendants to help him up*

(He's a diva, yk)

Su she: Huangdi. How does he look?

Xue yang: Did you want him naked?

Mo Xuanyu: Yao gege, Yao gege. Ignore Yangyang.

Yao: *saunters* Dage...Dage looks good.

No, Chengmei. I didn't want to see him naked.

The emperor began circling him to scope him out, but when he did, his fox tails touched the puppet's face.

Yao: I want you to show your reverence to me. *snaps*

The puppet corpse stopped fighting.

Yao: On your knees!

Then the puppet obeyed and bowed.

Yao: *walks back over to his seat and sits* Team dimple, you've done a good job.

I will be tired later, so you may come to Fangfei Mansion. To get a little gift.

Team dimple: YES HUANGDI!!!!

Xue yang: What if I refuse, Jiggy. You and your sexy, mysterious self.

Yao: Then I'll drag you in the same chains as dage, Yangyang. *grin*

Xue yang: Ahahaha! You're so hilarious.

Xue yang: My emperor, try controlling him again. Order him to fight with the rest of fierce corpses.

Yao: Why are you in a hurry? Dage will do whatever I say. Right dage?

Nie Mingjue: *nods*

Yao: What is your motive?

Nie Mingjue: Kill the emperor's enemies.

Yao: I like you better this way.

You're more approachable. Why must you be in this state to know that imin control.

Here! I gave you a name

You'll be named henceforth as Bai Renshou. Hundred Blade Chief.

Mingjue: Accepted.

Yao: *laughs mischievously* Minshan, give him his Baxia. Xuanyu and Xue yang, activate the rest of corpses.

I'm a little bored.

Mo xuanyu: Yes Yao gege.

When the emperor played the collection of turmoil on his guqin, the newly named Hundred Blade Chief became even more fierce and almost terrified. His eyes and veins turned gold, showing that he was under his control. The weaker fierce corpses tried to fight him off but he was no match as he tore them apart with Baxia, which was now smoky black and red. This time, the Nie Butcher skills were on display for the emperor's enjoyment.

Even if Yao Huangdi stops playing Turmoil, he'll still be under his control.

Yao: Stop.

Bai Renshou: *stops*

Yao: Your Baxia is a strong weapon, but I want to replace the spirit with a hulijing. * immediately evokes a hulijing in his blade*

Good.

Xue yang: I want to see him and Wen Ning fight!!!

Yao: Probably they would in the future.

Xue yang: Ah, I missed trying to control him.

Mo xuanyu: I know that Bai Renshou will be stronger than the Ghost General.

Yao: obviously.

Xue Yang: One more thing. I labotomised dage, Jiggy. He's in your full submission.

Su She: He will only speak when spoken to.

And he says the most submissive things.

Go ahead and demonstrate, Huangdi.

Yao: Well, that sounds absolutely fun.

Bai Renshou. Do you know anyone else?

Bai Renshou: Meng Huangdi and Team dimple.

Yao: Who's team dimple?

Bai Renshou: Huangdi's Henchmen.

And concubines.

Yao: Do you know Rusong?

Bai Renshou: Huangdi's eldest son.

Yao: Who are your friends?

Bai Renshou: I don't have any. Yao Huangdi is all I know.

Yao: Good. Someone try ordering him.

Su She: Bai Renshou. Attack the Lans!

Bai Renshou: You're not my Huangdi.

Su she: Good job!

Mo xuanyu: Does Yao gege love me?

Bai Renshou: Huangdi loves loyal people.

I only hope that I'm loyal to huangdi.

Yao: You will be.

Come on, flatter me.

Bai Renshou: You're the most powerful person in the Jianghu. The head of an equally powerful dynasty. We're all underneath you boot. And control! *eyes flashed gold* You know what's best for us.

Yao: What an accurate thing to say. *smiles*

Mo Xuanyu: I like him more like this.

Su she: He's more obedient and less insane.

Xue yang: This guy had to be a fierce corpse to spit the truth! Ahahaha! So lame!

Yao: Makes him more attractive.

Xue yang: I agree.

Feixiao: *walks in* Huangdi, you're

quite precise. The Borisins are attacking Beijiang and Yueyang! Perhaps your experiment will finish them off, or?!

Yao: That's the plan.

I was only waiting for them to enter my trap!

Whay about my people?

Feixiao: They're ordered to stay inside or occupy your watchtowers.

Yao: Excellent.

*opens fan* Bai Renshou, finish the Borisins.

Bai Renshou: As you wish, Huangdi. *unsheaths Baxia*

Mo xuanyu: But Yao gege. What will Lan lips say when he finds out? Not that I'm worried or anything.

Yao: *scoffs* What would hr say, Yuyu? I'm the emperor, and he can believe what he wants.

I'll explain to him later.

~~~

Beijiang and Yueyang 📍(Qishan Province)

Thousands of Borisins charged through the streets, attacking the hulijing defense force, who in turn attacked with the same strength. The cloud knights of the Xianzhou Alliance had also offered a celestial helping hand~ with their eccentric weapons and techniques which they handled with precision.

Surprisingly, some Reformed Wen sect members fought alongside the fox spirits, but a few fell at the hands of the Borisins.

Chiliyan: Take control of Qishan! And Beijiang's Mansion. Yueyang is just a mere dominion.

That cunning emperor's brother is locked up in that place.

Angsin: B...but isn't he the Demon King?

Chiliyan: Why are you afraid of him?!!

Are you kidding me now?

Yao Huangdi's step brother, Luo Binghe, However watches from the comfort of his mansion as he was already in on Yao's plan. A few hours later, he had to make an illusion for Chiliyan.

He made it look like Wen Yuan had surrendered Qishan Wen to him.

Chiliyan: Ahaha! Angsin! Look. The Wen sect leader! I told you that they're all weak!

Angsin: We're in Meng Huangdi's territory. Do you think this is his illusion?

Chiliyan: I'm not dealing with Huangdi. I'm dealing with sect leader Wen.

Meng Huangdi must be sending more troops to their death.

Sizhui: For peace sake, don't kill out the inhabitants of Qishan. To protect Huangdi's empire, I'd like you to take my sect as a treaty.

Chiliyan: Oh really now?

Sizhui: You'll have power, I'll resign and Huangdi's empire will be safe.

Chiliyan: As if I want these bastards to be safe!

Sizhui: Maybe it can change.

Can I give you a word of advice?

Chiliyan: Make it quick.

And I will make the decision whether to take it or not!

Sizhui: The Jianghu feeds on overly exerted qi energy, so you should lower it before you qi deviate.

You can't look weak, right. Also, your immortality don't work in Yao Huangdi's empire.

Chiliyan: I'm never weak!

Angsin, order them to lower their qi! .

Thereafter, the mighty Bai Renshou enters and slices Chiliyan and Angsin in half! Some Borisins who saw, had screamed their Erkhan's name

Bai Renshou continued to bend their weapons and push them away with his beguiling screams. With his screams, ha also destroyed the obstacles in his way.

When the rest of Borisins charged against him, his Baxia struck the ground, where they fell to their doom.

The cloud knights and other fox spirit troops looked in awe, identifying Bai Renshou as their emperor's rumored experiment. This fueled them with so much pride and patriotism~ and a sense of immortality or an upperhand.

Bai Renshou is patriotism for hulijings but a rumor for the Jianghu and mortals.

To end things off, he bit the remaining Borisin troops and turned them into fierce corpses, who attacked their own people. No one was safe from Bai Renshou!

He then destroyed the Borisin war ships with one fling of his Baxia, extetminating them for good. Yao Huangdi however sealed their realm with a powerful incantation. 

Then his hulijings began celebrating their victory on spot. The fierce Bai Renshou was already gone, as a guqin's melody played in his ear.

~~~

Next day, in Jing Manor's imperial court, Meng Yao Huangdi drafted a message. And as he wished, the whole Bai Renshou matter wasn't brought up. He will remain mysterious to the rest of the Jianghu.

However, on the sidelines, Qin Su and her sisters, Wanrong and Wanyue were present. These days, the two Qin sisters had only attended little soirees and galas, and took a break from imperial court as they rather a private (luxurious) life instead. But this time, they couldn't resist! It was in fact an auspicious day for the Mengs and their empire.

Furthermore, the two lavish beauties caught the attention of a certain someone.

Wanyue: Why is he staring at us?

Wanrong: *giggles* I don't have a clue.

Yao Huangdi's brother is kinda hot though.

Wanyue: Oh stop simping.

I still have trust issues. I know he's a gentleman, but.

Yao: Thank you fox spirits for defending your realm. The days of turmoil is over, and the rest of Borisin remnants are locked within their own realm.

My dear Shanhaijing Fox spirit force, Kitsunes, Gumihos, Foxians and Xianzhou Alliance.

The mysterious Bai Renshou is designed to protect us further. He's in my control, hence he does what I say.

Yao: Just Baihua and the Citizens Bureau. Write a list of people and places who were affected by the attack. I'll help them according.

Ji Baihua: I'm honoured to, Huangdi.

Rongjiu: Huang ge, I'm heading to Hejian to help some people there. Hulijings im that province had recognized him as Nie Mingjue. Any connection?

Yao: Nie Mingjue was fully in charge of Hejian.

It's Qinghe territories, that the Wens tried to take from him.

Rongjiu: Ohh. I see.

Yao: Mn. Well, I think that's all for court.  While Ji Baihua does his survey, I'll take a ride through Shanxi. Team dimple-

Su she: Right behind you!

Mo xuanyu: Yes Yao gege!

Xue yang: Of course we'll accompany you.

Yao: I'm sorry team dimple, but I feel as if I've forgotten about my other concubines. I'll ask A-Huan.

Xue yang: I will ambush him!

Mo xuanyu: Whyyy?!

Su she: Huangdi, I don't think Lan Xichen has time for the Mengs. He's probably missing dage.

Yao: I already gave you three your tasks for today.

Su she: Oh righttt! Forgive us, Huangdi. We won't leave anything unfinished.

Yao: Thank you.

And I'm not dumping my team dimple. Don't worry.

Bai Renshou, needs to keep being poisoned with my Golden String.

Xue yang: Sounds fun!

Mo xuanyu: Anything for you!

Su she: Should we beat him? Did he falter in any way?

Yao: No. I just wanted to poison him some more.

Bai Renshou did a good job otherwise.

Su she: consider your work done.

Yao: Thank you, dear. A-Su, the hulijing women would love go hear from their Huanghou. Do address them personally.

Qin Su: Yes Yao Huangdi. Yifan, would you like to do the same?

A-Qing: Of course, Huanghou! But my handwriting isn't that pretty. 

Qin Su: We have people to document what we say, just like Huangdi. Then you will put your stamp.

A-Qing: I? Have a stamp?

Sorry, i haven't used it. Because I was honeymooning with Rusong.

Qin Su: *laughs* Yifan, you're still honeymooning?!

Rusong: She's the one who demands extra cuddles and spontaneous dates.

I cherish them a lot. She takes good care of Pine Pavillion, but I didn't know she hasn't used her stamp for anything?

A-Qing: Like I said, I got caught up with you. And those dimples.

Huanghou, i promise I'll get some work done.

Qin su: Good, dear.

Yao: Did A-Song get any work done?

Rusong: Certainly, A-Die.

Yao: Oh delightful. I thought I had to curl in bed with team dimple and let you ride through Shanxi.

Rusong: I'm a workaholic just like you.

Yao: Ahh. That's my son. Balancing your honeymoon with work.

~~

After imperial court, Meng Rongjiu smoothly confronts Wanrong and Wanyue, who were about to exit.

Rongjiu: Greetings! Qin Guiren and Er Qin Guiren.

You both look lovely today! Well you always do. *kisses their hands in a respectful way*

Wanrong: I'm flattered.

Wanyue: Aw, you're a gentleman.

Rongjiu: As I was told. *opens fan* Lady Wanrong.

Wanyue: I'm Wanyue. She's Wanrong. My er jie.

Rongjiu: My apologies.

Are you ladies free tomorrow? I'm in need of some company.

Wanrong: How dare you try to ask us on a date.

Rongjiu: No no. It's not a date. I'm just heading to Hejian. And I thought I could invite you.

I'm also new to these places, despite being in Hejian for a month. The company would be appreciated.

Wanrong: Ahh.

Wanyue: That's so sad, Gongye.

I would love to come with you! But it's up to Jiejie.

Rongjiu: Understood.

Chysanthamum Mansion and the rest of Jing Manor must be boring sometimes. For those who are accustomed to opulence

Wanrong: Thank you very much for the invite, Gongye.

I think it would be inproper to turn down your invitation.

Wanyue: Delightful!

But just remember we're the sisters of the empress. Meaning we should be treated as such.

Rongjiu: And I'm the Emperor's brother. Nevertheless, I'll make accommodations.

Wanyue: As expected of a charming person like yourself.

Wanrong: So tomorrow then?

Rongjiu: Yup.

Wanrong: Mn. Thanks again.

Rongjiu: *bows and walks off*

Afterwards, they both shared a squeal.

Wanyue: We have to tell Jiejie!!

Wanrong: We must!

What do you think of him?

Wanyue: Regal and polite.

Wanrong: Absolutely charming, right.

But we can't give in too soon.

Wanyue: test him a little.

~~~~

Chysanthamum Mansion 📍

Wanyue and Wanrong told their sister everything what happened.

Wanrong: Jiejie, do you think he's genuine.

Qin Su: He's a respectable person, and he can't misbehave under Taihou unless he wants to be kicked out.

Wanrong: Really?!

Qin Su: Mhm.

This is some good news! And I believe he likes you two.

Wanyue: But all of a sudden? Not that I'm mad or anything.

Wanrong: Does he have concubines?

Qin Su: No, Fortunately.

Wanrong: Jiejie, what do you mean by that? You ship us already?

Did you scope him out?

Qin Su: He's a Gongye in search of concubines. Also, do you remember  Fu xuan's prediction?

She said that you'll be a part of a loving harem.

Wanyue: Awwww!

Wanrong: But, do you think that this is it?

Qin Su:  *Smiles* I firmly do!

But don't rush, ok? Let's see destiny play out!

[menghulijing]

Continuation of Rusong's party~

Later on, a pouty Xiaobao confronts Rusong, who was in mid conversation, and tugs Rusong's clothes.

Xiaobao: Song ge.

Huaien is stalking me.

Rusong: A-Bao, he always stalks you. *to his guests* Will you excuse me. A-Qing, chat with them.

A-Qing: Got it.

Rusong: What did you do?

Xiaobao: *opens fan* it's not my fault. I was looking for new concubines, as I'm San Dianxia and all.

I told him that he'll always be my primary hubby!

Rusong: Oh A-Bao. Why are you so mischievous. I think you were walking on thin ice there.

Xiaobao: I can't help that I'm cute.

Rusong: Yes yes, i know. Us Mengs are always like that.

At least you're not Jin Guangshan or anything. You're just an extremely playful Dianxia. 

I advise you to play it safe. 

Xiaobao: *laughs* Ugh Certainly. Before Huaien locks me in a closet or something.

Rusong: I know right.

Xiaobao: I should be in charge instead of him, Song ge!

Rusong: Well tell him that. I dare you.

Xiaobao: He might pull me into bed.

Rusong: *pats his head* poor poor you.

Xiaobao: But i kinda like it. Hehehe.

My husband is a yandere but I love him for that.

Rusong: At least you're happy.

Jingyi: *chugs wine* So your yandere husband is like this all the time?

Xiaobao: Yea, er ge. I don't think yanderes get a break.

Like I told Song ge, Huaien is supposed to understand.

Jingyi: Yea bro, I get you.

Zhaocai (Xiaobao's personal servant): San Dianxia's personal artisans are all female actually, and he treats them with a lot of respect.

Xiaobao: Right! Song ge, talk to him. He might be upset.

Rusong: Even though I dont like to meddle in relationship drama, I'll still see what I can do.

Xiaobao: You're the best! *hugs*

Jingyi: I hope he doesn't get jealous when he sees you hugging Song ge.

Xiaobao: Nah! He knows that it's Song ge.

On the other hand, Taihua and Gongyi Xiao were admiring fox spirit traditional dances. This dance in particular involved masks, fans and long shawls.

Gongyi Xiao: Your hulijing culture is interesting and beautiful.

Taihua: It truly is!

Gongyi Xiao: Can you dance them?

Taihua: Of course. I can dance a lot of these, as well as play instruments.

I'm multi talented, you know.

Gongyi Xiao: You certainly are. And you come from a talented household.

Anything you're not good at?

Taihua: Singing and cooking.

Gongyi Xiao: Aha! I don't think it's that bad.

Taihua: I'll cook for you some day, and you'll agree that I'm a bad cook.

Gongyi Xiao: Bad cook or not, I may still enjoy your food.

Taihua: That means you're dangerous then.

Gongyi Xiao: *chuckles* How am I dangerous?!

Taihua: You must be honest and not lie to my face.

I dont know if you'll secretly insult me.

Gongyi Xiao: Gongzhu, I will never do such a thing.

I wouldn't want to hurt your feelings.

Taihua:  So what if I can't cook? We all know that my food is horrendous. I'm pretty sure it's not the end of me.

Besides, I have a staff.

Gongyi Xiao: Hmm, you don't really need the skill at your rank.

Taihua: Song ge can make tea, and maybe minor meals. Nothing fancy.

Nainai says to run if a guy cooks.

Gongyi Xiao: *laughing* Taihou said that?! Ahahahaha!

Taihua: She can onlt stomach A-Die's cooking. While he was in Yunping.

Gongyi Xiao: I think that would've been different if he grew up with Jin Guangshan.

He would be horrible at cooking.

Taihua: Yea!

Now, what is Jinfeng zun bad at?

Express your flaws.

Gongyi Xiao: Probably writing novels and handling paperwork.

Yes I'm organised, but I get bored easily.

Plus I don't think I'm as creative enough to write, despite being a part of real-time adventures. If I go to tell someone about my experiences, it would just sound like a report.

Taihua: I see. You rather live in the moment.

Gongyi Xiao: Yea! And I'm a horrible dancer.

Taihua: *laughs* So you trip over your own feet?

Gongyi Xiao: Much worst.

Taihua: Would you dance with me?

Gongyi Xiao: Would you laugh?

Taihua: No. Promise.

Jinfeng zun, Mei Hanxue thought we were a couple. How did you feel?

Gongyi Xiao: Flattered, but I felt like Taizi Dianxia will behead me.

Taihua: Oh dear. He won't, Gongzi.

Because I won't let him.

Gongyi Xiao: Ah, so you're quick to save me? Why?

Taihua: Bec-- *blushes* Because, you're new here.

And I don't want anything tragic to happen to you.

Gongyi Xiao: That sounds very diplomatic of you, Wanghou.

Taihua: As I should be.

After persuading Huaien, Rusong Dianxia glanced over at a blushing Ning Yingying.

Ning Yingying: *shy* Dianxia is looking at me.

Do i look ok?

Ouyang Zizhen: Obviously you do. If Dianxia is looking at you.

Rusong: Yingying. Do you do traditional dances?

Ning Yingying: I can follow you, who have perfected it.

Rusong: *stretches hand* Splendid then.

Ning Yingying: *turns red*

While they curved in unison, to the music, they quickly caught everyone's attention.

Ning Yingying and Rusong took the opportunity to just stare into each other's eyes and trade smiles. Despite being a concubine, she was very much treasured along with Ouyang Zizhen.

Rusong loves his harem members equally, and will continue to do so. Behind the scenes, Ouyang Zizhen had also gotten attention, by spending private time, sharing his novels, playing the guzheng and planning things with Rusong (much like Xiyao)

Ning Yingying: Dianxia is the best dancer.

Rusong: You're equally talented.

Ning Yingying: Why haven't you gone to A-Qing instead? Not that I'm upset. I fancy dancing with you.

Rusong: I didn't want my dear concubine to be left out.

Ning Yingying: Awww!

Yunli: Shall we dance too, Yanyan?

Yanqing: I have two left feet!

Yunli: So?! Is that illegal.

And it seems to be popular now. Dianxia always ends up on the dance floor somehow.

Yanqing: He's magnetic.

Rusong: I would like to popularise dancing in my court, instead of only banqueting and toasting.

Ning Yingying: Good idea!

That will make your parties more fun and some shy people may try to run away.

Rusong: pfft! Not like I'm forcing them.

Us Mengs dance either privately, for charity or just in a loyal space. It is more of a privilege to see us, but I think dancing should be more popular. Fox spirits are also known to be amazing dancers! It's just the cultivation world that was rigid and upright.

Ning Yingying: Would people fight to dance with you?

Rusong: That's a possibility.

Ning Yingying: Well I hope that you remove the rigidity from the Jianghu.

Rusong: Hey, not completely. They must keep a little bit of stoicism if necessary.

Ning Yingying: Agreed.

Announcer: Huangdi is entering with his imperial entourage!!!

Everyone in attendance went on their knees loyally, then Meng Yao Huangdi walks in with Qin Huanghou, his head Eunuch, Lan Xichen and team dimple.

"May Huangdi and Huanghou live forever!"

Rusong and siblings: Greetings Fu Huang and Mu Huang.

Yao: please rise.

You shown me how you soil your clothes.

(Meng Court lingo for showing loyalty. Because one would have to kneel in his presence, causing their garments to get dusty)

Yao: You have very lavish gala going on, A-Song.

Rusong: Yes, A-Die.

Qin Su: As you should. My A-Song has impeccable tastes.

Rusong: And AQing did a marvelous job hosting and being the face of Pine Pavillion.

Yao: Excellent news. She had settled in well.

Rusong: Definitely. A-Niang, A-Die. I'm glad that you're all here to enjoy my gala! Right this way. I'll escort you to your seats

Yao: Quite filial of you. Do the honours.

Qin Su: *opens fan*

A-Qing: Greetings Yuefu, Yuemu.

Yao: A-Qing! How are you? Having fun?

A-Qing: I'm having the time of my life!

Yao: I can see that from your glowing face.

I almost thought you were expecting.

A-Qing: Expecting what?

Yao: *laughs* Oh A-Qing. I meant--

Xue yang: If Rusong knocked you up.

Su she: Xue yang!

Yao: *sigh*

Xichen: I wish that was said better. Anyways, Yao Huangdi doesn't intend to rush.

Mo xuanyu: Yea but you don't speak for the emperor.

Rusong: Team d, please don't fight Zewu Jun this time. He looks so demure next to A-Die.

Mo xuanyu: That's a disguise.

Su she: He thinks he's so superior.

Xue yang: Obviously Jiggy loves team d more than him.

Rusong: *shakes head* 

Qin Su: A-Qing, enjoy your life as Taizifei. You're a natural.

Lan Xichen lovingly made Yao Huangdi comfy in his seat, then he gave a gentle, yet snarky, smile at team dimple. Afterwards Su Minshan and the rest of team dimple too their seat.

Russong: A-Niang. You should inspect my harem some day! They yearn to see you.

Qin Su: That's a good idea, A-Song.

It will give me some Taihou practice.

Yao: I can see you doting on A-Qing, the same way A-Niang dotes on you.

Qin Su: Definitely, Huangdi. And our A-Song has lovely concubines.

Taihua: greetings, A-Die, A-niang.

Gongyi xiao: Accept my greetings.

Yao: Ah, Hua and Jinfeng zun. What a pair.

I would like to see more of you both.

Taihua: Really?

Yao: Yes. Jinfeng zun is part of Rusong's Pine Pavillion court, meaning he's your ally too.

Taihua: Ohh, I see! I love being in his company.

Gongyi Xiao: it's a privilege, Huangdi. Serving your offspring.

Yao: Ahah, of course it is.

Hua, I'm still trying to select a suitable suitor for you and Xiaoyu.

You'll know in due course.

Taihua: Yes, A-Die.

Yao: For the time being, I would like you to focus on your duties as a Meng Gongzhu.

Taihua: As you wish.

Gongyi Xiao: ( How could I forget that shes a filial a Meng princess. Anyways, once Hua is happy, then I'm happy. Or maybe I do have a chance as a clan leader).

Thereaftet, Ouyang Zizhen and Ning Yingying greeted their Yuefu and Yuemu wholeheartedly.

Yao: How is your cultivation going, Ouyang Zongzhu?

Ouyang Zizhen: It's going well. A faction of my sect are now undercover cultivators who live common lives. They would get to know people more and be at the pinnacle of the situation to demolish it quickly.

Yao: Oh, that's really brilliant.

I commend you.

Try securing some coasts aand take charge of the trading routes.

Ouyang Zizhen: I can do that?

Yao: Of course! I've given my cultivators free, but just, will.

And it looks good on you, as a concubine.

Ouyang Zizhen: Aww! Thank you very much, Yuefu!

Yuefu, may I speak to Xiandu?

Yao: Why not. Xiandu is right there. I've heard that youre his apprentice.

Ouyang Zizhen: Yes! Su Xiandu is my role model.

Su Xiandu. Greetings.

Su she: How are you, Ouyang Zongzhu?

You're good with Dianxia, i hope.

Ouyang Zizhen: Always. We're always close.

Su she: Congrats on gaining Huangdi's approval to secure coasts. It means that he has you in the highest regards.

Ouyang Zizhen: That's good to hear.

Su she: I want to push to make you Xiandu, and get you imperial influence and backup. But you still have to build your cultivation activity count and your qi.

Ouyang Zizhen: Should I try harder to, Xiandu?

Su she: No. Don't exhaust yourself. You shall build gradually and ascend naturally. I just wanted to help my apprentice.

Ouyang Zizhen: Xiandu is too kind.

But how is a chief cultivator like? Would you teach me?

Su she: Certainly. I will tell you all that I know.