Chapter 73: Probing

Chapter 73: Probing

Lu Yan appeared surprisingly amenable, which caught Zhao Yuxi off guard. He had merely been testing the waters, never expecting Lu Yan to genuinely consider the exchange.

Zhao Yuxi's heart leapt with joy as he bowed with a smile. "Indeed, King Fengling is magnanimous. If Your Highness is willing to part with your beloved, this prince will ensure you're not shortchanged. For this imperial celebration, our country of Wu Yun has brought an abundance of gifts. Carriages filled with fragrant beauties, jade treasures, and exotic rarities—whatever I possess, Your Highness may choose at will."

Lu Yan scoffed, lifting his chin in arrogance. "As the sovereign of the Twelve Continents, what rare treasure have I not seen? Is Prince Yuxi being too frugal, attempting to trade away my beauty with such trifles?"

Zhao Yuxi thought to himself that King Fengling was indeed as foolish as the rumors suggested. He asked patiently, "Then, what does Your Highness desire?"

Lu Yan feigned contemplation for a moment. "Ordinary items hold no interest for me. If you must give, offer something unique... Ah, I've heard tales of Wu Yun's divine maiden sword technique, its grace and fluidity unmatched. I've yet to witness it firsthand. Why not exchange it with the sword manual?"

Zhao Yuxi's expression shifted at Lu Yan's audacious request, never expecting him to demand their nation's treasured sword technique.

The Eternal Hall was aglow, akin to a celestial realm. Lu Yan's eyes lifted, embodying a divine aura, albeit tinged with mischief. Almost everyone awaited Zhao Yuxi's response. Refusal would make his previous words seem hollow, but acceptance was unthinkable, likely resulting in severe punishment from the king of Wu Yun upon his return.

After a long pause, Zhao Yuxi posed a single question. "If I were to exchange the sword manual, would Your Highness truly agree?"

Lu Yan's smile deepened, making him appear both generous and utterly heartless. "Of course, why not? Not just one, but both could be yours."

Zhao Yuxi nodded. "I'll remember King Fengling's words."

A cunning individual, he neither confirmed nor denied the exchange, instead asking an ambiguous question before gracefully retreating. Truly, he was as slippery as an eel.

Zhao Yuzhang's complexion was now not just unpleasant, but pale. Back in Wu Yun, Zhao Yuxi had always been at odds with him, once a strong contender for the crown. It was only due to Shang Junian's superior skills that he had been chosen as the crown prince. If Lu Yan truly exchanged them, the consequences could be dire, perhaps even lethal.

Once Prince Yuxi was out of earshot, Zhao Yuzhang anxiously turned to Lu Yan. "Aren't you the mighty King Fengling? What treasure have you not seen? And yet, you covet a mere sword manual? Aren't you afraid others will mock your incompetence for casually gifting your male concubines?"

Unfortunately for him, Lu Yan was immune to provocation. "Concubine? You've never shared my bed; how can you claim that title? Lazing around my manor, eating and drinking without contributing, consuming seven large meat buns per meal—it's better to send you away!"

Zhao Yuzhang choked on his anger. "You!"

He regretted his past harsh treatment of Lu Yan, now unable to utter a soft plea for help. Lowering his voice, he said, "If... if you really intend to send someone, let it be me. Don't touch Junian."

Lu Yan found his concern misplaced, responding with a half-smile. "Even if you wish to be sent away, your brother might not be willing to exchange you."

Gongsun Wuyou, however, proved loyal. Seated slightly behind, he mustered the courage to tug at Lu Yan's sleeve. "King... King Fengling..."

Lu Yan raised an eyebrow, turning back. "What is it?"

Gongsun Wuyou stammered, "If... if you want treasures, we have plenty in Tian Shui. I'll ask Master Xuan for some later. Please, don't exchange Junian Brother and Yuzhang Brother, alright?"

Lu Yan smiled. "Why? Wouldn't it be better for them to return home? Then they can go back to Wu Yun."

Gongsun Wuyou replied, "Of course not. Wu Yun has already crowned a new crown prince. Yuzhang Brother's position is precarious. That Zhao Yuxi doesn't seem like a good person. He'd rather Yuzhang Brother couldn't return. Why would he kindly exchange him? He probably wants to harm him secretly."

Who said Gongsun Wuyou was foolish? The boy saw through the situation clearly. Indeed, those born into royalty were rarely fools.

Lu Yan responded indifferently, "We'll see how many treasures Master Xuan can bring."

Across the hall sat envoys from various countries—the Crown Prince of Wu Yun, Zhao Yuxi; Duke Liu Tan Yan of Dong Li; and Master Xuan Hong, the national teacher of Tian Shui. As they toasted each other, their gazes subtly appraised Lu Yan opposite them.

Naturally smiling, unrestrained, and blessed with a handsome visage, he looked like a pampered noble. When they had sent their crown princes as hostages across great distances, they had anticipated hardships, but never imagined the might of Xian Ling would lead to such humiliation, forcing their crown princes to become the male concubines of King Fengling!

Duke Liu and Master Xuan's faces were already grim, a stifled anger welling within them, nearly shattering their wine cups.

Lu Yan picked a grape from the tray before him, offering it to Shang Junian. Green in color, contrasted by pale fingertips, he said, "Try it, it's quite sweet."

Since Zhao Yuxi's approach, Shang Junian had remained silent. Hearing Lu Yan's words, he took the grape absentmindedly, only to frown as its tartness hit his tongue. A low, muffled laugh suddenly echoed in his ears.

"At this time of year, grapes shouldn't exist. Who knows where they got them from. They're likely not sweet. How foolish."

Lu Yan casually grabbed a handkerchief, holding it to Shang Junian's mouth. "Spit it out."

Shang Junian didn't spit it out, instead swallowing the sour fruit with a frown. "It's fine."

Lu Yan whispered, "When Zhao Yuxi came over, you didn't say a word. Weren't you afraid I'd really exchange you for the sword manual?"

Shang Junian knew Lu Yan wanted the sword manual, both to save the three hostages' lives and for Xian Ling's future. His hand, resting on his knee, tightened unconsciously. He couldn't deny a fleeting moment of doubt, fearing Lu Yan would trade him away.

"I know you want the sword manual,"

Shang Junian's voice was low, his eyes revealing sharp determination,

"if you want it, I'll find a way to obtain it for you."

He avoided directly answering Lu Yan's question. Shang Junian had been betrayed too many times in his life, each instance nearly costing him his life. This led him to avoid pondering Lu Yan's final decision.

The best solution was to spare Lu Yan the choice, taking the initiative to secure it for him.

"You still don't trust me."

Under the table, Lu Yan clasped his hand, noticing the blood marks left by Shang Junian's pinched fingertips. He gently massaged them, laughing softly amidst the hall's music.

"The sword technique of Wu Yun isn't that valuable."

He wouldn't even bother exchanging for Zhao Yuzhang, let alone surrender Shang Junian for a mere Divine Maiden Sword Technique.

As night fell deeper, palace maids replaced the spent candles. Suddenly, a long, drawn-out announcement echoed through the magnificent Eternal Hall, its reverberations grand and imposing:

"The Imperial Sovereign arrives!"

Instantly, the music ceased. Everyone hastily straightened their attire, rising to kneel on either side, bowing in obeisance. Their voices rang out, welcoming the ruler who had unified the entire Twelve Continents:

"We, your subjects, pay homage to the Imperial Sovereign! May the Imperial Sovereign live ten thousand years, ten thousand years, ten thousand upon ten thousand years!"

Lu Yan stood among the crowd, discreetly raising his head. He saw the Imperial Sovereign clad in a vermilion robe with black borders embroidered with golden dragons, wearing the imperial crown. Behind the pearl curtain lay eyes of unyielding authority, his voice deep and resonant with the aura of command. "Rise, my lords."

Following the Imperial Sovereign's words, he seated himself in the high seat. Observing this, everyone rose and returned to their positions. One by one, they offered toasts and congratulations, presenting treasures, silks, and silver grains from their respective domains, with Tian Shui's offerings being the most lavish.

The Grand Master Xuan turned his head to exchange a covert glance with Prince Liu, their unspoken agreement unclear. Ultimately, he took the initiative to leave his seat, standing in the center to bow to the Heavenly Emperor: "Grand Master Xuan Hong of Tian Shui pays respects to Your Majesty. This time, we are honored by your country's invitation to send an envoy to Immortal Spirit. Indeed, a great nation with grandeur and magnificence is evident, showcasing the wisdom of Your Majesty."

Flattery was easy for anyone, and clearly, the Heavenly Emperor wouldn't take it to heart. He raised his wine cup in a distant toast to Xuan Hong: "Grand Master Xuan is too polite. After the banquet, you may stay for some time. I will have someone show you around so that you can better understand the customs and culture of Immortal Spirit."

Grand Master Xuan bowed deeply: "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your kindness. This humble servant is greatly honored, but my sovereign is plagued by unresolved worries and remains bedridden. As a subject, how could I indulge in pleasures far from home? I fear I must decline Your Majesty's gracious offer."

His words carried hidden meanings, and the Heavenly Emperor, aware of the trap, still had to ask: "The ruler of Tian Shui is in his prime. Why is he bedridden?"

Gongsun Wuyou, hearing of his father's illness, was anxious, craning his neck from behind, waiting for an answer.

Grand Master Xuan subtly glanced at Lu Yan's direction before withdrawing his gaze: "Your Majesty, our sovereign has a deep bond with the Empress. They have only one son, whom they sent thousands of miles away as a hostage to Immortal Spirit. Their prolonged separation has caused them great concern, leading to his illness."

After his statement, he lifted his robe to perform a kneeling bow: "This humble servant has a request, if Your Majesty would permit it. Since the battle of Bright Moon Crossing, all countries have submitted to Immortal Spirit. Tian Shui has been loyal and never acted against Your Majesty. Please show mercy and allow Crown Prince Wuyou to return home to alleviate the suffering of our sovereign's longing for his son."

All his previous remarks led to this plea for the hostage's return. Upon hearing this, the hall erupted in commotion. It wasn't just the crown prince confined within the hostage residence; children of various regional lords were also held there. Who wouldn't want their own child to return home?

But Lu Yan knew that the Heavenly Emperor would never open that door. If Gongsun Wuyou were released, it would be difficult not to release the others, making it hard to establish rules.

"Parents endure great hardships to raise us. Although I empathize with the love and concern of the ruler of Tian Shui for his son, without rules, there can be no order. The alliance treaty was signed long ago, stipulating that the crown princes of all countries would serve as hostages in Immortal Spirit for three years. Only one year has passed, and I am truly in a difficult position."

Prince Liu rose from his seat at the opportune moment: "Rules can be broken or established. If Your Majesty allows the hostages to return home, I believe everyone in Tian Shui would be grateful for your benevolence. Great achievements are not bound by trivialities. You are already the ruler of the twelve regions. Why should you worry about such insignificant details?"

The Heavenly Emperor closed his eyes silently, not responding. Another trusted court official stood up to counter: "Difficult tasks must be done easily, and great matters must be handled meticulously. If one cannot manage minor details, how can one govern the world?"

"The ruler of Tian Shui, as the head of a country, should value trust and keep promises. If he truly misses Crown Prince Wuyou, he can communicate through letters to ease his worries. Three years will pass quickly. Why rush?"

Many court officials of Immortal Spirit sat among the guests, all shrewd individuals who knew what to do upon catching the Heavenly Emperor's glance. They rose one after another, blocking back Grand Master Xuan and Prince Liu with their words.

Zhao Yuxi was the most unusual among them. He calmly waited for Grand Master Xuan and Prince Liu's failure before slowly rising to toast the Heavenly Emperor, smiling faintly: "Your word is as good as gold, Your Majesty. Yuxi admires you. Besides the gifts for the celebration, our country has prepared a rare treasure to entertain today's feast. Please allow me."

He lightly clapped his hands, and two attendants entered carrying a brocade box. When opened, a cold gleam flashed, revealing a three-foot-long sword lying quietly inside. Its material was unknown, its blade shimmering a snow-blue under the candlelight. A furious, open-mouthed divine beast, the Yi Zhi, was carved on the hilt, exuding a killing aura that made it hard to breathe.

Zhao Yuxi took half a step back, seemingly intimidated by the sword's sharpness: "This sword is called 'Othersworld.'"

The Heavenly Emperor found the name peculiar and frowned slightly: "What does it mean?"

Zhao Yuxi smiled: "It is a heavenly artifact, not of this world, and thus shall depart. This sword is renowned alongside the Divine Maiden Sword in our Wu Yun country as a military artifact. Those who have wielded it throughout history have been famous sword masters and unparalleled heroes. One swing can fend off a million soldiers. Today, I part with my affection for it and wish to present this item."

A sword of unparalleled divinity was as scarce as an unparalleled sword technique. The Heavenly Emperor beckoned it closer for a detailed inspection, unable to help but marvel aloud: "Indeed, it is a divine weapon, unlike anything of this world. Crown Prince Yuxi, since you say this item is to entertain today's feast, how exactly will it assist in the entertainment?"

Zhao Yuxi first bowed to him before turning to face the crowd, performing a four-directional bow. He declared loudly: "Ladies and gentlemen, it is said that rouge is for beauties and swords for heroes. If this item falls into the hands of an ordinary person, it would inevitably be obscured. Not what I desire. How about setting up a martial arts arena in the hall? Each country may send capable and extraordinary individuals to compete. The winner shall obtain this sword. What do you think?"

Upon hearing this, the hall erupted like oil splattering when water drops fell in. The guests whispered amongst themselves, barely concealing their eagerness to try. Divine weapons were rare. Today, Zhao Yuxi was willing to display this item for admiration, but no one expected him to use it as a prize for a martial arts competition. How generous!

That wasn't all. Grand Master Xuan, upon hearing this, also rose to his feet: "With a divine weapon, there must be a sword manual. Crown Prince Yuxi is so generous, and this humble servant admires it. I also wish to add a prize. The Ascension Scripture is a sword technique created by the Plum Blossom Sword Sect a hundred years ago. However, it has been lost for a long time. Last year, I obtained it by chance and felt unworthy. Today, I present it, hoping to match a worthy hero!"

"Whoa—"

Upon hearing the words "Ascension Scripture," the entire hall burst into an uproar. There was no other reason—the sword manual was even rarer than the divine sword. It was rumored that Mo Zhe Mei, the creator of this sword technique, was the youngest sword master in the world, mastering incredible skills at the age of nineteen, a true legend.

The Ascension Scripture was the culmination of his life's work, said to contain shortcuts to transcendence. Twenty years of cultivation could be achieved in ten, and fifty years in twenty-five. However, the method was somewhat sinister, requiring the extraction of martial artists' inner cores for personal use, resulting in mixed opinions.

But it was clear that no one cared whether the method was sinister. They only cared if the Ascension Scripture could truly lead one to immortality in a single step. Even the Heavenly Emperor's eyes flickered with a hidden glint, appearing quite tempted.

Shang Jun Nian held Lu Yan's hand under the table, signaling him not to act rashly. His voice was deep: "Their offering of these items is ill-intended. They likely aim to test the strength and reality of Immortal Spirit's power, and the number of experts."