Just as Qiong Qi died, Wu Wang sensed changes in the Great Dao within the Divine Court through the Star God's Dao.

What Wu Wang found somewhat absurd was…

No sooner had Qiong Qi been slain than the ranking of his Great Dao, 'Evil Falls,' within the Heaven Palace's Great Dao sequence ascended significantly; it rose from the very bottom all the way into the middle-lower rank!

This? Could it be that the Heaven Palace was waiting for Qiong Qi to die, to 'officialize' this Great Dao and then use it to scheme against the Human Domain? In other words, the Heaven Palace never recognized Qiong Qi as a Divine Spirit but only acknowledged the Great Dao of 'Evil Falls,' which emerged from Qiong Qi's own Divine Skills, as being qualified to be a Divine Spirit's Great Dao.

Wu Wang almost cursed out loud.

All of a sudden, he felt pity for Qiong Qi, and his already negative impression of the Heaven Palace plunged even deeper into the negative.

Thinking of Qiong Qi's life filled with sin, serving as the Heaven Palace's lackey to the end, only to meet such a fate, without even a strong god to stand up for him, wasting the Human Domain's efforts in setting up over a hundred traps… It was excessive, outrageously so. Those Innate Gods of the Heaven Palace truly have no shame!

Watching as Qiong Qi's corpse was dragged away, Wu Wang felt not a hint of joy, but rather a sense of emptiness. This was, after all, once his opponent.

When Wu Wang had first arrived at the Human Emperor Pavilion, Qiong Qi had been secretly contending with him, and he, in turn, had used Qiong Qi to clear the Main Hall of the Human Emperor Pavilion of all spies from the Ten Evils Hall. Unfortunately, Qiong Qi was too deeply bound by the Heaven Palace, with not much room for his own development. Now, Wu Wang had destroyed his Divine Soul with a single stroke of the Star Sword, making even the hope of Qiong Qi reviving in the Heaven Palace's Divine Pool a luxury. Not to mention, the Heaven Palace did not want to expend that part of its Divine Power for Qiong Qi.

Where do souls belong?

What justice is there in heaven and earth?

Wu Wang stood on the high platform, holding the Star Sword untainted by a single drop of blood, his left hand behind his back, gazing into the azure sky, motionless for a long time.

The Heaven Palace. Heavenly justice. The Heavenly Dao will take its place, and heavenly justice will be determined by the Heavenly Dao!

「...」

The Human Emperor Pavilion held a Qiongqi Banquet, and Wu Wang, unable to decline, was dragged there to at least make an appearance. The so-called Qiongqi Banquet was not about roasting Qiong Qi's old flesh. The Human Domain had long moved beyond its tribal origins, and even if Human Cultivators hated Qiong Qi to the bone, they would not engage in the act of eating his flesh. Although Human Cultivators, in their travels across the Nine Wildernesses of the Great Wilderness, had spared no effort in seeking strange beasts and compiling their tastes and characteristics into books, they generally did not eat the flesh of beings who had developed Spiritual Wisdom. At most, it would be for pill refining or similar purposes.

Incidentally, any exotic plant labeled with 'beneficial to offspring,' 'strengthening the essence,' or 'increasing yang energy' would, within ten thousand years, become a rare species in the Great Wilderness. Those were much sought-after items in the Human Domain.

At the banquet, Cultivators bustled about, and numerous esteemed figures unceasingly came forward to toast Wu Wang. Wu Wang accepted all comers this time, drinking with the Cultivators one after another, earning himself the reputation of being able to drink a thousand cups without falling.

Many Human Cultivators who had met Wu Wang a few times noticed that he seemed different today; his demeanor, speech, and actions all radiated confidence. He seemed more approachable and more reliable.

"Look at today's Wu Wangzi; he shines as if he were glowing. Before, he always seemed aloof, a bit ethereal, and somewhat lazy about worldly matters," said one.

"It must be because he has stepped into the Transcendent Realm and opened up a new world for himself," another replied.

Such conversations were whispered among the Cultivators.

Wu Wang indeed had opened up a new world for himself. However, it had little to do with whether he was Transcendent or not. Mainly, he was strong now, had goals, and was constantly thinking about how to deepen his relationships with his destined lovers, eagerly awaiting the day beneath the apple tree to taste the forbidden fruit and the rocking of the reed boat in the marshes.

Such thoughts frequently bubbled up in Wu Wang's mind: The Great Wilderness is truly marvelous.

Lin Suqing was behind Wu Wang, pouring wine, and the little Princess from the Feather Country held the artifact containing the wine, never leaving Wu Wang's side. Jingwei disliked such bustle and thus kept hidden, presumably having gone back to visit Shen Nong.

As the banquet was in full swing, Wu Wang took Lin Suqing for a stroll to the corner where the young people gathered. Upon Wu Wang's arrival, the young talents of the Human Domain rose to their feet. The male Cultivators called out in admiration to Wuwang Palace Lord, their eyes full of longing and aspiration. The female Cultivators were either shy and coy, smiling warmly, or boldly stepping forward to toast, openly stating their names; many did not conceal their admiration for Wu Wang.

Wu Wang responded with a smile, searching for Ling Xiaolan among the crowd, but realizing she was not present at such an occasion.

She must be busy with matters of the Xuan Nu Sect.

Thus, Wu Wang muttered to himself internally: I should pay a visit to the Xuan Nu Sect later; it's about time I showed my stance toward this major sect.

"Brother Wuwang."

"Teacher!"

A familiar voice rang out beside him. Wu Wang immediately walked over with a smile, while the female Cultivators crowding around him tactfully stepped back.

It should be mentioned that Wu Wang was still enveloped in an Ice Crystal film and always kept at least half a yard away from these beautiful Fairy Immortals, with an aura swirling around him that prevented others from getting close.

Wu Wang was well aware of what was going on. Having obtained the sun and the moon, why bother with the Stars. (Also, the sun and moon here did not refer to the Twin Xis.)

How could Ji Mo and Lin Qi be absent from such a grand event as slaying Qiong Qi? The two brothers were originally sitting in the most secluded corner, but now Lin Qi had moved his bowl and chopsticks to the side. Wu Wang didn't stand on ceremony and took a seat right away. Lin Qi glanced at two young female Cultivators beside him, who quickly bowed to Wu Wang and left with their bowls and chopsticks, leaving the space for them to enjoy privately.

"Suqing, take a seat."

"Alright," Lin Suqing responded, and, under the gaze of many Cultivators, she calmly took a seat across from Wu Wang. Yu Fenman stood alone behind Wu Wang, skillfully adding dishes and pouring wine, showing no sign of her initial embarrassment as one of his Maidens.

Wu Wang raised his hand and sprinkled streaks of Yin-Yang Dao rhythm, isolating this corner from the rest of the banquet. "Let's chat freely; there's no need to worry about being overheard… Lin Qi, when did you get back? Why didn't you let me know?"

"Teacher, I only arrived at the Human Emperor Pavilion today." Lin Qi's face was ruddy and his eyes were bright, his voice even more clear and melodious, clearly having had a good time in the Southeastern Region.

He laughed and said, "I haven't had the chance to congratulate you on reaching the Transcendent Realm, Teacher. Your pace of Cultivation is truly unmatched!"

"It's all down to personal encounters." Wu Wang teased Lin Qi with a raised eyebrow and a slightly mischievous look in his eyes. "When will you have some good news to share? I've heard that in the Southeastern Region, you've hidden a beauty in a golden house—don't tell me there's more than one?"

"Teacher, this… this…" Lin Qi, his face and ears flushed red, stammered in defense, "An affectionate relationship is not the same as hiding a beauty in a golden house… When mutual affection is involved, how could it be something to be concealed?"

He then offered some comments like, "Our love is sincere," and "Females of other races can be quite gentle as well."

Wu Wang and Ji Mo howled with laughter beside him; the entire Barrier was filled with a lively atmosphere. The three of them had a rare gathering, freely chatting about leisurely topics. As the conversation went on, Ji Mo steered the subject back to his old profession.

Brothels.

Wu Wang's Dao heart wavered slightly. Talking about this now, he was certainly not sleepy! Of course, even without the curse, he remained pure as ice and clean as jade, simply wanting to see the world for himself.

"This brothel you mentioned, is it respectable?"

"Of course it's respectable!" Ji Mo laughed.

Lin Suqing, at the side, gave a coquettish roll of her eyes.

Ji Mo looked around and lowered his voice. "I've heard that in a city near the Human Emperor Pavilion, there's a brothel with several musicians whose skills on the zither are quite remarkable. How about we go and listen to some music later? Of course, just to listen to music. After all, we are now people of status, and we dare not have any improper thoughts. It would be quite a scandal if the news got out."

Wu Wang frowned and asked, "Where did you hear such news? Weren't you going to stop visiting brothels?"

"Although I no longer visit brothels, my legend is still very much alive in that world, so I often receive Jade Talismans with news from a few old scoundrels," Ji Mo said earnestly. "Are we going to the brothel to indulge in pleasure and wine? No! We are going to inspect the local establishments, to see how the brothels are managed and to show concern for the physical and emotional needs of Cultivators."

Wu Wang took a bite of succulent fish meat and said calmly, "Later, we'll sneak in without drawing attention."

Lin Qi and Ji Mo both bowed and accepted the instruction.

Lin Suqing held her forehead with one hand, already seeing the brilliant light rising in the Young Master's eyes.

What should she do? Though she was the Young Master's maiden, and a close and personal one at that, if he wanted to go to a brothel, she shouldn't say anything. She might even have to go lay out the bed, guard the door, and help the chosen girls bathe and dress, sprinkling flower petals for their bath. But… so annoying! Hmph, there's almost double happiness at home, yet he's thinking of going to listen to music at a brothel. No honey in his tea for the next half month!

Naturally, Lin Suqing still carefully instructed Yu Fenman, telling her not to let slip any word when she got back, especially not to mention that the Young Master had gone to those unsavory places. Yu Fenman nodded her agreement repeatedly, but also held a few expectations for the grand cities of the Human Domain.

「...」

As dusk fell, lanterns were lit for the first time. A winding river flowed past the majestic city walls, upon which the light walls of the Formation glowed like flowing water. Three cloaked figures walked intermittently, entering a lavishly decorated building with few patrons.

In a corner of the street, a courtesan witnessed this scene and immediately crushed the Jade Talisman she held in her hand for messaging.

Right away, two graceful and beautiful women stepped forward to greet them, saying that the place had been booked by a guest for the whole night and would not receive other patrons today.

There are even acts of bullying and monopolizing the market in this place! Wu Wang frowned slightly upon hearing this.

But then Lin Qi coughed and gestured to the side, prompting several black-robed guards to step forward and present Jade Talismans as proof.

"C-cousin, I booked this place in advance."

Wu Wang smiled awkwardly. This Disciple certainly learned his bold essence well.

"Guests, please come in. We were truly rude just now, please do not take offense," said the two women, revealing a proper smile as they bowed and led them to the most spacious suite on the third floor.

There were rows of women waiting inside. The women here were not all just smiling coquettishly. Those with a distinguished air had a cool expression, those sweet-looking smiled radiantly, those with flirtatious looks had seductive eyes, and those with enchanting figures wore as little as possible.

The impressive wooden doors swung open, and they bowed in unison, their voices blending into one greeting, "Good evening, young masters."

Wu Wang glanced over…

He had no interest whatsoever. Indeed, for someone whose heart was occupied by a beauty rarely found in this world, who was accompanied by a beauty beyond compare, who had seen Chang Xi in the moonlight and felt Xihe's majesty up close, who had deceived a 'young girl' like Young Master who was over a million years old—even his group of Maidens were no ordinary women. It was only natural that his Dao heart remained untroubled by these courtesans.

However, Wu Wang didn't want to dampen the spirits of his two friends, and he fully respected these women. After taking his seat at the head of the table, he made it clear, "Let's get this straight – we are only here to listen to music today, and we won't engage in foolish behavior."

"Of course," Ji Mo said as he flicked the hem of his robe and took his seat two places away to Wu Wang's right. Lin Qi sat opposite Ji Mo, also two seats away from Wu Wang. Then, Lin Qi clapped his hands, and the rows of women gracefully stepped forward.

"I'll sit here, Young Master!" Lin Suqing suddenly jumped out and sat down right next to Wu Wang's right hand, her eyes somewhat nervous.

Wu Wang laughed, "Just sit down. Xiao Man, you can sit on this side."

The little Princess of the Feather Country paused, then quickly bowed her head in agreement, folding her thin wings behind her back as she sat down, her movements possessing an indescribable grace. This left the two rows of courtesans somewhat at a loss.

"Leave two to serve wine, and quickly summon the best musicians you have here," Ji Mo said with a smile.

The women, having seen the arrival of three clean-cut young masters, had hoped for a night of pleasure, yet they couldn't help but feel disappointed now. But the guests had spoken, and they dared not linger. They each bowed and left, leaving behind two women to stand behind Lin Qi and Ji Mo.

After a while, singing and dancing began on the platform ahead. Dancers with lithe figures and soft movements moved to the gentle music. Wu Wang watched with interest, occasionally opening his mouth to eat the vegetarian dishes Lin Suqing passed to him. Lin Suqing internally compared the situation and felt that everything seemed normal enough today; the three men didn't do anything out of line.

"Young Master, Young Master…"

"Hmm?"

"Which piece do you like? I will go buy the score from their musicians and practice diligently when we return, so I can play it for you every day."

"You? You'd better not," Wu Wang chuckled. "Don't end up with that 'crying at the grave' routine again."

"Oh, how could I? That was when I had to struggle to earn Spirit Stones within the sect," Lin Suqing protested, unwilling to yield.

Just as she was about to argue further, a cold snort came from outside the brothel, and the Formation that protected the building trembled thrice. Ji Mo, who was slightly intoxicated, suddenly shuddered, eyes widening as he leaped to his feet.

"Yao'er!"

"Le Yao has come?" Wu Wang glanced at Lin Suqing, who immediately shook her head; she would never betray the Young Master like that.

Wu Wang spoke calmly, "Don't be afraid, we're just listening to some music, how serious can it be? I'll go speak with your wife; tell her to come right in."

"That won't do, that's not acceptable, absolutely not!" Ji Mo was frantic, like an ant on a hot pan. "I've sworn an oath not to listen to music behind her back, and today I forgot to tell her!"

BOOM!

The protecting Formation of the brothel trembled again, but the Formation here was indeed quite firm. The two courtesans accompanying them covered their mouths and giggled, looking at Ji Mo with a hint of admiration in their eyes.

Lin Qi stood up, his face showing seriousness and a surge of boldness. "I shall go!"

From outside came a sharp shout, "Surround this place! Don't let a single fly escape!"

"Yes!"

Outside, there was chaos as if a horde of demons was dancing wildly!

Lin Qi's Adam's apple quivered. He said calmly, "Let's go to the next room to hide for a while."

"You would run away when your brother is in trouble, wouldn't you!" Ji Mo stepped forward to hold Lin Qi back, his gaze swinging left and right before finally settling on Lin Suqing and Yu Fenman, who stood by Wu Wang's side. "Quick, a chivalrous emergency! Saving a life can earn a thousand years of cultivation; we will definitely repay you handsomely in the future!"

The expressions of Lin Suqing and the young Princess of the Feather Country were also ones of astonishment.

「A moment later.」

The grand Formation of the brothel opened on its own, and rolling demonic qi poured into the tall building! The women inside were rather calm, each gathering at the railing to watch the excitement unfold.

Le Yao, wearing a verdant green long skirt and carrying two Short Swords, led a large group of guards from the Sun Demon Sect and burst in, heading directly towards the brightly lit area. As her skirt fluttered, she kicked open the door of the suite and agilely leaped in.

Look ahead! The Screen showed the silhouettes of two figures calmly eating and drinking.

Le Yao rushed forward in two strides, ready to shout at any moment. She had even forgotten to use her Immortal Consciousness to scout the room, her Short Swords already raised as if to split the round table.

"You… eh?" Le Yao was startled to see Lin Suqing and Yu Fenman sitting in the main and secondary seats, with two other women, elegantly made-up, adding wine and dishes for them. Not far away, the musicians and dancers curiously sized up Le Yao.

"What's this?" Le Yao blinked at Lin Suqing. "Sister Suqing, what brings you here?"

"I was bored staying at the Human Emperor Pavilion, so I came out specially to listen to some music, learn some tunes, and plan to play them for the Young Master when I return," Lin Suqing said with composure, her peripheral vision catching a glance of a certain wooden cabinet in the corner.

Le Yao heaved a slight sigh of relief. Her gaze swept around the room, and then she went to the bed to investigate, tapping the wall with the handle of her knife to feel if there were any special Formations. The whole process was remarkably proficient.

Soon, her eyes filled with slight apprehension as she muttered, "That's true, my husband has already taken a terrible oath never to come to such a place again. My lack of trust in him might upset him if he finds out about this."

Lin Suqing's Primordial Spirit, within her still-forming Immortal Platform, pressed its palms together, continuously bowing to Le Yao. On the surface, however, she was brimming with enthusiasm, smiling as she pulled Le Yao to sit down. The bowls, chopsticks, and chairs had already been replaced with brand new ones, stripped of their previous aura…

Inside the wooden cabinet, Wu Wang's forehead was covered with black lines. He looked at Ji Mo in front of him, who seemed to have lost half his life, and Lin Qi by his side, trying hard not to laugh, while continuing to maintain the fleeting Yin and Yang Barrier.

What a mess. How did I also get dragged into this?! It's a good thing the Yin and Yang Path left by Senior Fu Xi was mysterious enough that the three of them could hide so securely.

Lin Qi laughed and said, "It's fortunate that my sister-in-law's cultivation isn't too high to see through Teacher's Transcendent Realm techniques."

Ji Mo kept bowing beside them, pleading via voice transmission, "Brothers, please don't talk. For the sake of my future happiness, let's just be patient."

"Of course," Wu Wang smiled slightly. "With my current methods, even if a Transcendent came, they wouldn't be able to see through them. Just stay put and don't worry."

Lin Qi immediately echoed, "That's right! With Teacher here, Brother Ji, you can relax. There will absolutely be no accidents!"

"Ah, we can always trust Brother Wuwang…"

DING—

Gold light, dazzling gold light. A mass of gold light bizarrely appeared above their heads at the top half of the cabinet, and intense fluctuations of Heaven and Earth emanated from within!

Wu Wang was about to act against the gold light, but a voice timely resonated within his heart: "Kunlun's Lu Wu, by the orders of my master, has come to bring the God of Spring as a guest to the Kunlun Ruins."

This voice transmission wasn't even halfway through when the gold light suddenly erupted, illuminating the entire brothel and stirring up layers upon layers of ripples in Heaven and Earth…