Hearing Tian Chen’s invitation, Simei stepped gracefully toward the front deck of the ship. The cool night breeze brushed against her face, fluttering the hem of her soft gown and loosening a few strands of hair from her bun. Under the pale moonlight, her charm seemed to radiate even more, like a fairy descending into the mortal world. She stood beside Tian Chen silently, following his gaze, which had been fixed on the starlit sky above. Silence enveloped them, accompanied only by the gentle lapping of the river water beneath the hull of the ship. Though the scene was peaceful, an awkward feeling hung between them. Each wanted to speak, yet neither knew how to begin. When they finally gathered the courage to say something, the unexpected happened. “Are you joining the competition too?” They spoke in unison. The words slipped out simultaneously, creating a small mistake that left them momentarily stunned before their eyes met. Simei’s eyes widened, her face slightly flushed, whil

Without fear, Tian Chen stepped forward, even though he couldn’t sense his opponent’s aura. His instincts alone were enough to tell him that the masked man before him was an extremely dangerous foe. However, no matter how strong this man was, Tian Chen had to defeat him. He stood tall, both hands gripping tightly the hilt of his black sword engraved with golden dragon patterns. His sharp eyes stared straight at his opponent. In front of him, the masked man walked forward calmly. His cold gaze was hidden behind the silver mask adorned with peacock engravings. "Little boy, I’ll play with you a bit. It’s an honor for you to exchange blows with me," said the man with a mocking tone. Tian Chen didn’t respond; he simply tightened his grip on his sword. The masked man slowly raised his hand, and at once, the river water around the ship began to stir, forming swirling waves that circled his body. The once calm ripples now churned wildly, seemingly influenced by the energy he emitted. Th

The masked man stared at Tian Chen with barely concealed astonishment. "Impossible! You're just a titled swordsman! How could you suddenly become a king swordsman?" The masked man's voice trembled. His mind was in chaos, and his survival instincts kicked in. Tian Chen didn't answer. He simply raised his sword. WUSHHH!!! The air vibrated violently. In an instant, hundreds of black swords patterned with golden dragons appeared, floating in the air, surrounding Tian Chen with an oppressive aura. The masked man gritted his teeth. His breath hitched. "Damn it! This is beyond my capabilities! I have to escape from here!" Without hesitation, he dove into the water. His body shot forward at full speed, piercing the river current like a shadow trying to escape death. But— SWOOSSHH!!! With a flick of Tian Chen's wrist, hundreds of black swords patterned with golden dragons shot into the river, relentlessly pursuing the masked man. The masked man kept swimming, but when he looked bac

Tian Chen looked at his mother with confusion. His instincts told him the events were real, but his mother's expression was so calm, as if there was nothing to worry about.Physician Siyo noticed the change in her son's expression. She knew Tian Chen still doubted her words, but she didn't give him a chance for further debate.With a slightly firmer voice, she said, "Don't think too much. Eat. Mother has prepared it for you."Without saying anything else, she placed a tray of food on the small table beside the bed.Tian Chen, who had been pondering, finally nodded. The aroma of the food that had been lingering made his stomach even hungrier. Slowly, he began to take his first spoonful.The food tasted better than usual. In seconds, one bowl was empty.However, his hunger hadn't subsided.He immediately took a second bowl, then a third, a fourth, and it continued.Physician Siyo watched him calmly. There was no surprised expression on her face, as if she had expected this to happen.Ti

Inside the Most Luxurious Restaurant in the Imperial Capital The atmosphere inside the luxurious restaurant was magnificent. Crystal chandeliers sparkled on the ceiling, reflecting soft light that made the marble tabletops glow. Gentle music played by skilled musicians flowed through the air, adding to the elegant ambiance that filled the room. The guests wore their finest clothes, enjoying expensive dishes while conversing gracefully. Occasional light laughter echoed, showing how relaxed they were while indulging in the luxury of the place. However, at one of the main tables, the tension was thick. Tian Chen sat calmly in his seat. Beside him, Simei appeared relaxed, while on the other side, Saoye sat with an expression that was hard to read. Tian Chen could feel the hateful gaze from the man. Every time Simei smiled at him, Saoye’s face grew more rigid. Though the man’s lips still held a slight smile, the hand hidden under the table was clenched tightly. Then, suddenly, Saoye’