Li Ye brought Zhiruo, Yan Yuchen, Lan Xi, and Chen Hu to the Cloud Pinnacle Pavilion for a banquet. This famous restaurant stands in the center of Maplewood City, seven stories tall, with luxurious private dining rooms on the top floor. The interior of Cloud Pinnacle Pavilion is extravagantly decorated, with exquisite silk drapes hanging in the brilliantly lit hall and walls inlaid with fine jade, as if every inch of the place showcases its extraordinary status.
As they entered the private room on the top floor, the first thing that caught their eye was a large round table filled with delicacies. Crystal-clear jade plates held dishes that were fragrant and visually appealing: there was crispy and rich dragon and phoenix dish, melt-in-your-mouth abalone and sea cucumber, and enticingly colored deer tendons stewed with Snow Lotus. Each dish reflected masterful culinary skills. In the center of the table stood a beautifully carved jade pot filled with precious wine aged for a hundred years. The table was also adorned with various exquisite pastries and fresh fruits that stimulated one's appetite.
Mo Tianxing, as the city lord, stood in the center of the room in a magnificent robe, exuding an air of authority and elegance. He was handsome, with deep-set eyes that conveyed both majesty and grace in his every gesture.
Liu Chengfeng and Su Yue had already arrived. Upon seeing Li Ye enter, they exchanged smiles. Su Yue playfully teased Li Ye, saying, "This meal can't count as your treat; you still owe us one tomorrow night."
Li Ye smiled and nodded, replying, "Miss Su is right; I will definitely treat everyone again tomorrow night."
Su Yue nodded in satisfaction, her eyes gleaming with pride. Liu Chengfeng lightly waved his folding fan, appearing exceptionally refined as he politely remarked, "The city lord personally hosts a banquet for the number one in the world; this is quite rare at past martial arts tournaments. It’s clear that the city lord holds Brother Li in 'high' regard." He emphasized the word 'high,' to which Li Ye nodded quietly and said, "Thank you for the reminder, Brother Liu."
Everyone exchanged pleasantries with City Lord Mo Tianxing. Mo Tianxing warmly said, "Brother Li Ye, congratulations on earning the title of number one in the world. Your performance at this martial arts tournament was remarkable; you truly stand out among young talents." After speaking, he raised his glass to signal everyone, "Come, let us toast to Li Ye's splendid performance!"
Everyone raised their glasses enthusiastically, and the atmosphere instantly became warm and joyful. Li Ye smiled as he clinked glasses with everyone, feeling a wave of warmth in his heart. Zhiruo, Yan Yuchen, and Lan Xi also toasted to congratulate Li Ye on his victory.
During the meal, Mo Tianxing engaged in lively conversation with everyone. Su Yue asked with a smile, "Young Master Li, your performance at the martial arts tournament was truly stunning; how did you manage it?"
Li Ye humbly replied with a smile, "Actually, there’s nothing special about it; I just practice diligently as usual."
Liu Chengfeng took over the conversation and said, "Brother Li is truly modest. Your momentum during battles and your extraordinary swordsmanship are indeed admirable."
Mo Tianxing added with a smile, "Brother Li Ye, what are your plans next? With your strength, you could certainly carve out a place for yourself in the martial world."
Li Ye pondered for a moment before answering, "I don't have any specific plans at the moment; I just want to explore and enjoy time with my friends."
Mo Tianxing nodded and smiled, saying, "No matter when it is, Maplewood City's doors will always be open for Brother Li Ye. I hope that while you venture through the martial world, you can often come to Maplewood City for a visit."
Li Ye gratefully said, "Thank you for your kind intentions, Lord of the City. I will definitely visit often when I have the chance."
Mo Tianxing nodded and continued to chat and drink with everyone.
"Li Ye, your strength at such a young age truly makes me admire your talent," Mo Tianxing praised. "If there is an opportunity, may I spar with you? I would like to personally experience the skills of the best in the world."
Li Ye smiled and replied, "You flatter me, Lord of the City. It would be my honor to spar with you."
At this moment, Zhiruo interjected, "Lord of the City, not only are you skilled in martial arts, but you also govern Maplewood City effectively. May I ask for your insights on the way of ruling a city?"
Mo Tianxing chuckled, "Miss, you overpraise me. The way to govern a city is simply to be diligent and love the people while attracting talented individuals."
Yan Yuchen added with a smile, "Lord of the City, you are being modest. We have witnessed your charisma here and truly felt the prosperity and peace of this city."
Meanwhile, Lan Xi quietly observed from the side. She noticed that Mo Tianxing's gaze seemed to intentionally or unintentionally linger on Li Ye during their conversation. She thought to herself that this lord was certainly not an ordinary person.
After several rounds of drinks and dishes, everyone bid farewell to Mo Tianxing and returned home. Li Ye and his companions went back to the inn, where Zhiruo and Lan Xi helped Li Ye take a bath.
Li Ye sat in the bathtub, warm water slowly enveloping his body. Zhiruo squatted beside him, holding a delicate cloth and gently wiping away the sweat from his forehead. Her movements were soft and warm; each touch felt like a gentle spring breeze.
"Brother Ye, you worked hard today," Zhiruo said tenderly. "Let me give you a proper wash."
Li Ye closed his eyes, enjoying this moment of tranquility and warmth. "Thank you, Zhiruo."
Yan Yuchen stood by the bathtub, pouring high-quality floral water into the bath. Instantly, the bathroom was filled with a fragrant aroma. She gently ran her fingers through Li Ye's long hair, tenderly massaging his scalp with care.
"Young Master, is the water temperature suitable?" Yan Yuchen asked softly, her voice carrying a hint of concern.
"Very good, thank you, Yen Yuchen," Li Ye replied with a smile.
The two women took great care of Li Ye, not overlooking any detail. Zhiruo wiped his body, her fingers gliding over his skin, bringing a tingling sensation; Lan Xi continued to massage his head, her gentle technique making him feel incredibly relaxed.
"You two are really thoughtful," Li Ye said with a smile. "Having you around makes me so happy."
Zhiruo playfully smiled, "Brother Ye, of course we have to take good care of you and help you relax."
Lan Xi smiled slightly, a complex emotion flashing in her eyes. "Young Master, this is what we should do."
Early the next morning, someone from the lord's mansion came to invite Li Ye for a private meeting. Upon receiving the news, Li Ye furrowed his brows slightly but quickly relaxed and nodded. "It seems the lord has something else to discuss; I'll go see what it is."
Zhiruo asked with concern, "Brother Ye, do you want us to accompany you?"
Li Ye shook his head. "No need; I can go by myself. You two rest at the inn and take care of yourselves."
Yan Yuchen smiled and said, "Young Master, don't worry. We will wait for your return."
Li Ye nodded, prepared himself, and set off toward the lord's mansion. He felt a sense of caution in his heart; Mo Tianxing's invitation was clearly not just for simple conversation. This meeting might uncover some hidden secrets lurking in the shadows.
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