Recently,
An incredible event was approaching.
Because of this, the ghosts of the Ghost City were panicking.
Because of this, the ghosts of the Ghost City were panicking. When Xie Lian heard this, he was also shocked. Just like the group of ghosts who mysteriously came to inform him, he became anxious. "Birthday?"
"Yes!"
Exactly. The Master of the Ghost City, Hua Cheng's, birthday was coming soon!
Xie Lian was caught off guard and felt inexplicably nervous.
He said, "This, this, this,How did San Lang celebrate his birthday in the past? "
The group of ghosts scrambled to be the first and answered in a messy manner, "It was very lively!"
"I didn't really celebrate it,
I just fooled around a bit … "
"But the Master of the City doesn't care at all?"
After hearing this sentence,
Xie Lian asked, "What do you mean ignore it?"
A ghost said, "It's the old Master of the City,
He never celebrates his birthday. "
"Yes, he never cares what we do on his birthday, and he never looks at the gifts that other people give him. Every year, we're the ones foolishly happy. "
"The Master of the City is a noble and forgetful person.
It seems like he doesn't even remember which day he was born! "
Xie Lian thought about it,
And immediately made up his mind. Since Hua Cheng didn't care much about his previous birthdays,
Then this time, he had to think of a way to make his birthday a bit more unique and interesting,
So that he could be happy on that day. Otherwise,
A birthday with him,
Wouldn't it be no different from a birthday without him?
First,
A birthday gift had to be given. Xie Lian fell into deep thought.
What should he give?
The group of ghosts also looked at him expectantly.
"Xie Daozhang, are you thinking of giving the Master of the City something?"
Xie Lian said, "Mhm. I'm ashamed to say it, but I … … I'm not too sure what your Master of the City will like. I'm afraid that if I don't give him what he likes … … "
The pig butcher said, "Hey, what are you worrying about? In fact, as long as it's from Eldest Uncle … … Xie Daozhang, I think our Master of the City will be extremely happy."
"Yes. Even if it's a piece of waste paper, he'll definitely be happy. How can a gift from Big … … Xie Daozhang's gift be the same as other people's! "
Xie Lian dryly laughed twice. He felt that this kind of thinking was a little too narcissistic and frivolous. It wasn't solemn and sincere at all. He said, "You can't say it like that. When choosing a gift, you must put your heart into it … … Does anyone have any suggestions?"
No matter what, Hua Cheng had been in the ghost market for many years. Perhaps these ghosts would know more about his preferences. Perhaps by brainstorming, he could really find a suitable and unique gift. As expected, all the ghosts said, "Yes, yes, yes!"
As he spoke, more than ten pairs of chicken feet, pig trotters, tentacles, and other miscellaneous items were passed to him. Xie Lian had never seen these things before. Surrounded by them, he was amazed. He casually picked up a mysterious and elegant green jade bottle and asked, "Oh? What's this? "
The person who donated the bottle said, "A peerless aphrodisiac! With just a few drops, it was guaranteed that the poisoned person would immediately fall head over heels for the person who had administered the medicine! And it won't hurt your body! "
"…"
Xie Lian sternly said, "Many thanks for the suggestion. However, affection came from the heart, how could it be manipulated by drugs? It's better if everyone doesn't use it in the future. "
The ghost who offered the medicine said in fear and trepidation, "Yes, yes, yes, no need, no need. However, we don't usually use it. Isn't this why Daozhang Xie asked what to give? "
Xie Lian smiled and said, "I think that your Mayor probably doesn't need this kind of medicine."
All the ghosts shouted, "That's right, if the Mayor wants someone, does he still need to drug them? Really! "Seven or eight hands and feet pressed the ghost down.
Xie Lian thought to himself, this is really the truth. For example, he didn't need any medicine at all. As soon as he saw Hua Cheng, he would almost fall head over heels for it. He was truly ashamed.
In order to not let his shame turn into a red cloud on his face, he hurriedly picked up another box and opened it. "What's inside this?"
The ghost who offered the treasure said, "This is a Begetting Pill!"
"…"
Xie Lian didn't even need to ask what this pill was for. He immediately closed the box with a "pa" sound and helplessly said, "What the hell is this … …"
Why did they want him to give Hua Cheng such an improper thing?
In short, after a round of random discussion, Xie Lian knew that he wouldn't be able to get any useful suggestions. He repeatedly told the group of ghosts to secretly prepare for the Ghost King's birthday celebration and give Hua Cheng a surprise. Then, he left to slowly think about it.
●
Perhaps it was because he had been thinking about this matter so much that his distress was written all over his face. On this day, when he was accompanying Hua Cheng to practice calligraphy, he was racking his brains when he suddenly heard a voice from the side. "Gege."
Xie Lian finally snapped out of his daze and asked, "What?"
Hua Cheng was staring at him. He put down his brush and said, "Could it be my misconception? Gege seems to be worried about something. Can you say it so San Lang can share his worries? "
Xie Lian's heart tightened. He immediately put on a stern face and warned, "Don't put down your brush. Don't be lazy. Pick it up and continue. "
Hua Cheng laughed and picked up his brush again. He slowly sighed and said, "I've been discovered."
Seeing that he had fooled him, Xie Lian secretly relaxed. Who knew that Hua Cheng would pick up his brush and write two lines before absentmindedly saying, "However, recently, Gege has indeed been a little abnormal."
Xie Lian's heart tightened again. However, he still pretended to be calm and composed on the surface. "Oh? Abnormal in what way? "
Hua Cheng carefully looked at him for a while before smiling. "You seem to be especially … … obedient."
Xie Lian smiled. "Haven't I always been like this?"
Xie Lian really couldn't come up with anything after racking his brains, so he decided to take a risk out of desperation. He first randomly said some irrelevant things before pretending to be absent-minded, "San Lang, let me ask you something."
Hua Cheng asked, "Hm? What is it? "
Xie Lian asked, "Do you feel like you're missing something somewhere?"
Hua Cheng asked, "Missing? What is Gege referring to? Are you missing something? "
Xie Lian replied, "Oh, no … … I'm talking about you. I'm just asking … … "
It was a pity that he didn't dare to ask too directly. For example, "What do you like? What do you want?" In case Hua Cheng found out, he could only beat around the bush. However, beating around the bush didn't mean he wouldn't be able to scratch the itch.
Hua Cheng asked, "Me? Gege, do you think I'm missing something? "
… … That's true. Xie Lian couldn't help but feel embarrassed.
Hua Cheng asked again, "Gege, why are you asking me this?"
Xie Lian was afraid that he would notice, so he threw caution to the wind. He raised his hand and forcefully pushed. Hua Cheng had never been on guard against him, so he was pushed back against the couch with a 'dong'. His eyes widened, but he didn't seem to mind. With a smile, he asked, "Gege, what are you doing? You're so passionate, you … … "
Without waiting for him to finish, Xie Lian braced himself and stopped him from speaking.
This time, Hua Cheng didn't have the mood to continue interrogating him. He turned his arm around Xie Lian and flipped him over. He didn't care what was wrong with him anymore.
●
Since he couldn't figure it out by himself, Xie Lian could only ask for help. The first help he thought of was naturally his two capable subordinates from back in the day.
The three of them squatted in a hidden and broken temple. After a moment of awkward silence, Feng Xin asked, "Why are you guys looking at me?"
The other two were still looking at him. Everything was understood without words.
It couldn't be helped. Among the three of them, Feng Xin was the only one who had a wife. Logically speaking, he should know how to win the favor of those close to him. However, Feng Xin's face darkened under their stares. He said, "… … It's useless for you guys to look at me. I've only given him one thing. "It was that golden belt. That was something that Xie Lian had given him.
Mu Qing felt it was inconceivable that he would also be asked this kind of question. Being able to restrain himself from rolling his eyes was already very polite of him. He only wanted to quickly resolve this matter. He said, "That's fine. The belt isn't bad. You might as well give him a golden belt as well."
Xie Lian automatically ignored his sarcasm and said, "I didn't have a single one a long time ago." All of them had been pawned!
Mu Qing became even more sarcastic. "You're now so smooth sailing. The streets are filled with your temples and believers. You can just casually ask for something in your dream and you'll still have to worry about not being able to get one?"
Xie Lian said, "That's meaningless. If I have to give someone a birthday gift from a believer, that would be too perfunctory. "
Mu Qing saw that no matter how sarcastic he was, this person remained unmoved. His tone finally returned to normal. He said, "Why are you so troublesome? Then you should personally make one for him. "
Xie Lian hurriedly said, "Good idea! But I don't know how. "
"You can learn if you don't know how."
Xie Lian said, "Well said. Who do you want to learn from? "
Mu Qing impatiently said, "How would I know? You can do as you please … … "
Before he finished speaking, Mu Qing noticed that this time, the other two people's gazes had coincidentally turned towards him.
Four hours later, Xie Lian's ten fingers had already been pierced seven or eight times. Only by wrapping them in bandages did his hands not become dripping with blood. Moreover, there was an additional strip of unknown meaning and shape on his hands.
Mu Qing really couldn't stand it anymore and asked, "What is this?"
Xie Lian sighed. "A belt."
Mu Qing said, "I know this is a belt. What I'm asking you is, what is embroidered on this belt? What is the meaning of these two potato-like patterns? "
Xie Lian said, "These aren't potatoes! Can't you see? These are two people. " In order to let them see clearly, he even gestured. "Two people's faces. These are the eyes, and the mouth is here … …"
After confirming that these really were two people's heads, Mu Qing said in disbelief, "Why would someone embroider two big heads on a belt? Can this be worn out? Your taste in clothes isn't that bad, so how could you make this kind of thing? "
Xie Lian couldn't do anything about it. In fact, if you asked him to repair a house, dig a well, or build a wall, he would be very good at it. However, he seemed to be innately bad at this kind of work that leaned towards women. Once he was asked to hold a needle and thread or a ladle, the scene would be out of control. He glanced at his hands that were tied up like a dumpling. Although he didn't feel any pain, the progress was slow. He couldn't help but feel helpless and said, "… … I'll just change it."
However, what was done could not be undone. How could he change it? At best, he could only add a layer of flower petals around the two little people's heads, turning them into two clumsy flowers that intimately intertwined with each other. Feng Xin and Mu Qing's expressions became even more tragic.
The veins on Mu Qing's forehead slightly popped out. "I've already taught pigs, why are you so clumsy? Why are you always stabbing your own hands? "
Feng Xin said, "When have you ever taught pigs? You're really just talking big! "
Mu Qing unceremoniously said to Xie Lian, "Forget it. You should just give up. You don't have the talent." It was rare for him to say something like 'you don't have the talent' to Xie Lian, yet he actually said it in such a righteous and confident manner. It felt pretty good. Feng Xin couldn't stand listening anymore and said, "Can you say a few words less? From just now, you haven't said a single word of praise for His Highness. Wearing clothes and making them yourself aren't the same thing! Besides, it's not that bad. At least this belt can still be worn. "
Mu Qing said, "Alright, I'll give this thing he made to you. If you dare to wear it, I'll be convinced."
Before Feng Xin could reply, Xie Lian hurriedly put away that hilariously ugly belt and said, "I can't accept this, I can't accept this. I'll just keep this for myself! "
This kind of thing really couldn't be given away!
●
Feng Xin and Mu Qing couldn't help much, so Xie Lian turned to ask for help from the next person.
"Gift? Your Highness the Crown Prince, you've really asked the right person for this. Thinking back, this … … what rare treasures have I not seen before? "
The two of them squatted on the side of the street. Shi Qingxuan's hair was disheveled and he was in high spirits. His mouth flowed like a river. With one look, it was obvious that he was an expert. Xie Lian humbly asked for guidance. Shi Qingxuan spoke frankly with assurance and said, "This ownerless treasure does exist, but if you want to get it, you'll definitely have to spend a lot of effort."
Xie Lian hurriedly said, "It's fine. It's just what I want. "The more effort one had to spend, the more precious it was. Wouldn't that show one's intentions? It would be best if it was the most difficult to obtain in the world, a treasure that no one had successfully challenged. Like this, if he obtained it for Hua Cheng, then it would have extraordinary significance. As long as he thought about how he could make Hua Cheng slightly raise his eyebrows and smile, Xie Lian's heart was filled with uncontrollable joy and anticipation.
Shi Qingxuan thought for a moment and said, "Heavenly Star Pot! Your Highness the Crown Prince, you should have heard of it, right? This pot is a treasure. If you place it in the middle of the night, the stars and moon in the sky will be reflected in the wine in the pot, allowing it to absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, the sun and the moon. Not only is it elegant, it can also greatly increase one's cultivation … … "
Unexpectedly, the more Xie Lian listened, the more an ominous premonition in his heart became. He hurriedly interrupted, "Wait."
"What's wrong?"
Xie Lian gestured and said, "Qingxuan, are you talking about a small black jade pot this big? The black jade is embedded with fine starlight? "
Shi Qingxuan curiously said, "Huh? Your Highness, how do you know? Have you seen it before? "
"… …"
Last month, when he wanted to pour some water to drink, he forgot that his hand was injured. He accidentally lost his grip and broke a pot like this.
At that time, Hua Cheng immediately came over to ask about the injury on his hand. He saw that the pot was very beautiful and strange, so he asked Hua Cheng what to do and whether it could be repaired. However, Hua Cheng said it was fine, it was just a small toy. Without even looking at it, he ordered his subordinates to sweep away the broken pieces of the pot and grabbed Xie Lian's arm.
Now that he thought about it, could it be that what he broke was the rare treasure that Shi Qingxuan mentioned, the Heavenly Star Pot?!
Xie Lian's heart went cold. After a while, he said, "This … … might not be suitable. Let's change it. "
"Oh." Shi Qingxuan didn't understand. He scratched his head and thought for a moment before saying, "Then the next one, the Eight Desolations Brush! This brush is incredible. It was made from the tip of the spirit tail of an ancient demonic beast, and the shaft of the brush was made from the top of a jade bamboo spirit. When it isn't writing, it will grow … … "
Xie Lian said, "Jasper bamboo leaves?"
Shi Qingxuan said, "Yes! Your Highness, how do you know? Have you seen it before? "
How could he not have seen it before? That was the brush that Hua Cheng used to practice writing every day. Moreover, when his writing was ugly, he blamed the brush for not being good. He would often throw it to the ground, and sometimes he would kick it to who knows where. After that, Xie Lian would often look everywhere for that poor brush, then pick it up and wipe it before putting it away.
"… …" Xie Lian said, "This might not be suitable either. Let's change it. "
Shi Qingxuan said seven or eight things in a row. Xie Lian thought, why did these rare treasures that other people spoke of sound so familiar? Moreover, they were all so miserable. If it wasn't Hua Cheng's stool, then it was his stall; if it wasn't used by him for fun, then it was lost by him!
Thinking about it, it made sense. What rare treasures could there be in this world that Hua Cheng hadn't seen and couldn't get?
Therefore, when he thought about the Ghost King's birthday gift, he couldn't figure it out.
●
In a desperate situation, Xie Lian looked for almost all the people he knew and could ask. However, Quan Yizhen only knew how to stuff gold bars, and Hua Cheng didn't lack money. Pei Ming only knew how to give gifts to women. If you asked him what he could give to a man, he couldn't say anything serious. Ling Wen, although she was protected by a few Superior Heavenly Officials and the fact that the Heavenly Court really couldn't do without her, she was already buried in the sea of documents thrown at her and was about to lose consciousness. Other than reading documents, she couldn't do anything else. It was better to be locked up in prison and be quiet.
There was no way to ask for help. When there were only two days left until Hua Cheng's birthday, Xie Lian really had no other way.
He thought for a whole night with bloodshot eyes. Finally, when the sky was about to brighten, he thought of what to give.
With his mind in a mess, he quietly climbed up from the bed and looked at Hua Cheng who was sleeping soundly at the side.
Hua Cheng was as black as a crow. His eyelashes were long and his eyes were tightly shut. One couldn't tell that one of his eyes was gone. The natural aggression on his handsome face and expression was diluted after his eyes were closed. At this moment, he looked extremely gentle.
Xie Lian's heart moved. He couldn't help but stretch out his right hand and caress Hua Cheng's face. In the end, he was afraid of waking him up. He didn't dare to touch him and stopped.
Unexpectedly, before he could get off the bed, he felt his waist tighten and was pulled back by a hand. A lazy voice came from behind, "Brother, why are you up so early?"
Hua Cheng actually woke up!
His voice was low and hoarse, as if he was still half asleep. Xie Lian was suddenly pulled back by him. He suppressed his guilt and said calmly, "Oh, there's a wish."
Hua Cheng leaned forward and kissed his ear. He said, "The sky isn't even bright. Who would go to the temple to pray so early in the morning? Are they tired of living? "
He probably had a guilty conscience. When Xie Lian heard him speak, his face became hotter and hotter. He said, "I didn't just receive it. It was accumulated before … …"
As he spoke, he felt that it was difficult to speak normally in this position. Just as he was about to climb up again, Hua Cheng also sat up. He wrapped his arms around Xie Lian's neck from behind and rested his head on his shoulder. He said, "Since you've accumulated it until now, what's the harm in accumulating it for a while longer? Brother must be tired from last night. You should rest for a while. "
Xie Lian struggled against his arms and his enticing voice. With great difficulty, he said, "I … … have accumulated it for a long time. I can't suppress it anymore … …"
Hua Cheng said, "Oh. Then should I go with you? "
Xie Lian hurriedly said, "No need. It won't take too long. I'll be back soon. You should rest first! "
Hua Cheng said, "You really don't need me to go?"
Xie Lian said, "No need! You can't follow me. Absolutely, absolutely can't follow me! "
Hua Cheng slightly opened his eyes and said, "Why?"
"… …" Xie Lian choked. In a flash, he suddenly turned around and grabbed Hua Cheng's shoulders. Looking straight at him, he solemnly said, "You, have to practice calligraphy."
Hua Cheng innocently looked at him and blinked. Xie Lian braced himself and said, "Today, you must stay in the monastery and practice calligraphy. When I come back, I want to check it! "
Hua Cheng looked even more innocent. He tilted his head but still obediently said, "Oh."
Xie Lian managed to deal with it with great difficulty. He tumbled down the bed. Hua Cheng half-leaned on the table and squinted at his fleeing back. He smiled and rested his head on his hands before lying down again.
●
Xie Lian first went to the barren mountains. After getting what he wanted, he went to the copper furnace.
Within the territory of Bronze Furnace Mountain, in a small hut in the thick forest, Xie Lian saw the State Preceptor set up a table with three empty shells. He was currently playing cards with a serious expression. Without saying a word, he immediately turned around and walked out. The moment the State Preceptor saw him, his eyes lit up and he shouted, "Stop!"
Xie Lian knew that there was only one situation where the State Preceptor would ask him to stop. As expected, the next moment, the State Preceptor flipped the table and said, "I'm not playing anymore. I have something to do and I'm leaving! The Crown Prince is back! Why are you looking for me? "
Xie Lian turned around and saw the three empty shells on the ground. He knew that the State Preceptor was about to lose. Against his will, he said, "Actually, it's not a big deal."
However, the State Preceptor hurriedly said, "No, no, I see that your expression is serious. Something big must have happened! You can play cards for a while. Let me help you first! "
"… …"
But when Xie Lian explained the purpose of his visit, the State Preceptor's expression changed again. The two of them sat on a simple bench. Xie Lian could hear the State Preceptor scolding him, "It's really not a big deal. It's just a birthday, is it worth it for you to think about it for so long? You even ran all over the world to personally retrieve that kind of thing! "
Xie Lian knew that he couldn't explain it to others. Even if he explained, they wouldn't understand. He rubbed his eyebrows until they were red and said, "In any case, I've already retrieved the raw materials. It's just that I can't remember how to make the Xian Le style longevity lock that I used to make when I was young. I hope the State Preceptor can give me some pointers. There's no need for you to do it. I can make it myself. "
The State Preceptor seemed to be unable to calm down and said, "You don't need to prepare any birthday gift. You've already delivered yourself to his doorstep. What gift does he want??? "
"… …"
Was he saying that "you yourself are the best gift"? Xie Lian couldn't stand this kind of argument. He couldn't even think about it. He slapped his forehead and thought, "I'm not that narcissistic."
The State Preceptor saw him repeatedly shaking his head. He resisted and said, "You're too useless. You're the only Celestial Official who has ascended three times! Corolla Martial God! Xian Le Crown Prince! Seventeen years old and you dare to say that you want to save the common people! Eighteen years old … … "
Xie Lian immediately said, "State Preceptor! Stop! State Preceptor! Don't say anymore! Don't say anymore! "
What was there to be proud of with this kind of dark history!
The State Preceptor looked at him with a complicated expression. It was as if he hated iron for not becoming steel. He said, "Your Highness the Crown Prince, you really don't need to put yourself so low."
Xie Lian said, "It's not that I'm putting myself very low. It's just … …"
It's just that when facing someone you admire, you naturally want to give them the best in the world. However, you can't help but feel that you're still not good enough.
The State Preceptor looked at him and sighed. He folded his hands into his sleeves and thought for a while. Then, he said, "The longevity lock, right? Wait, let me think. It's been too long. I don't dare to say that I remember all of the craftsmanship and the opening ceremony. "
Xie Lian said, "It doesn't matter. If you can't remember, then I'll make it from my memory. I believe it will work if you're sincere. "
In a flash, the State Preceptor glanced at him and said, "Do you want to ask him?"
"… …"
He didn't say his name, but Xie Lian knew who 'he' was.
Jun Wu was suppressed in the depths of this copper furnace.
After a long silence, Xie Lian still shook his head.
●
After staying in Bronze Cauldron Mountain for half a day, Xie Lian returned to the Ghost City.
At this time, there were only a few hours left before Hua Cheng's birthday officially arrived. The group of ghosts and Xie Lian had discussed it. On the surface, they all pretended that nothing was going on. But in the dark, they were all secretly arranging the Ghost City. Xie Lian flashed into a small shop. Not long after, the group of ghosts surrounded him. They anxiously and noisily asked, "How was it? How was it? "
Xie Lian thought that this was practically like a thief. He asked, "How was your Master? Did he notice anything unusual? "
The group of ghosts replied, "No, no. The Master was in Thousand Lanterns Monastery the entire day. "
Xie Lian was a bit surprised. "He was here the entire day?"
"Yes! The Master seemed to be in a good mood today. Da … … Xie Daozhang, have you prepared the birthday gift for the Master? "
Xie Lian finally felt relieved. He stroked the longevity silver lock that he had painstakingly made and smiled. "I'm ready."
The group of ghosts was overjoyed. They discussed He Sheng's arrangements for tomorrow before returning to Thousand Lanterns Monastery. As soon as they entered, they saw that Hua Cheng was actually practicing calligraphy.
Without his urging, Hua Cheng actually took the initiative to practice calligraphy. This was truly a rare occurrence. It seemed that Hua Cheng was truly in a good mood. Xie Lian saw that the pitiful and precious Eight Desolation Brush was writing such twisted and ugly characters under his hands. He found it inexplicably funny and shook his head. Hearing that Xie Lian had returned, Hua Cheng put down the brush and finally stopped tormenting it. He smiled and said, "Brother, you're back? Just in time to see my results today. "
Xie Lian smiled and said, "Okay." He was about to step forward. Unexpectedly, at this moment, his expression stiffened. His feet stopped, and he frowned.
Hua Cheng immediately felt that something was wrong. In the next instant, he was by Xie Lian's side. "What's wrong?"
Xie Lian's expression immediately returned to normal. "It's nothing."
It wasn't that he was fine. Just now, in that instant, his heart felt a slight pain.
Hua Cheng didn't allow him to be careless. He walked up and grabbed his wrist. "Where did you go? Did you get hurt again? "
Xie Lian replied, "No."
This was the truth. Indeed, he hadn't. Although he had been rushing around these past few days, it had been smooth and he hadn't encountered any danger. Hua Cheng muttered to himself for a moment. Unable to find anything, he put down his hand. Xie Lian circulated his breathing and didn't discover anything. He thought that it was probably just an illusion. He smiled and said, "Maybe it was just a twisted nerve. Alright, let me see how your results are today. "
Only then did Hua Cheng reveal a smile. Holding his hand, he said, "Come here."
Before Xie Lian could respond, his heart suddenly hurt again.
This time, it definitely wasn't an illusion! He clearly felt that if the first time was as painful as being pricked by a needle, the second time was as painful as being scratched by a sharp nail. If Hua Cheng hadn't coincidentally turned his face away, Xie Lian probably wouldn't have been able to say that he was fine this time.
Xie Lian didn't want to disturb Hua Cheng for the time being. The two of them played at Thousand Lantern Monastery for a while. Then, he casually found an excuse to leave and carefully examine himself.
After a while, he put down his hand. His expression was solemn.
Of course, there were no problems. Otherwise, when Hua Cheng grabbed his hand, he would have found out.
Then why did his heart hurt for no reason?
After thinking for a moment, Xie Lian guessed that some evil spirit had entered his body or that he had been poisoned. However, he didn't panic. At least, there was no need for now. After a while, it would be Hua Cheng's birthday. If something happened to him at this time, Hua Cheng definitely wouldn't have the heart to think about this birthday. He was afraid that he would be forced to treat his injuries again. Xie Lian was used to enduring pain. It wasn't like he hadn't experienced this kind of strange thing before, so he didn't take it to heart. He decided to endure this day first and think about it later. After that, he would quietly solve it himself.
At night, it was almost time. Xie Lian returned to Thousand Lantern Monastery. Inside, Hua Cheng was still bored to death. He pretended to scribble and make waste paper. Xie Lian couldn't help but laugh. However, before his laughter could rise, he felt another wave of pain in his heart. Rubbing his chest with his fingers didn't seem to have any effect. He thought to himself, "It seems that this thing is quite powerful. I'll just endure it for a bit longer."
He took a light breath and walked out. In a warm voice, he said, "San Lang? There's something that I'm afraid I need your help with. "
Hua Cheng put down his brush. "What help?"
Xie Lian said, "Please close your eyes first."
Hua Cheng raised his eyebrows. He didn't ask any more questions and obediently closed his eyes. Xie Lian held his hands and said with a smile, "Come with me."
This was the complete opposite of that night on Mount Yu Jun. Hua Cheng smiled and said, "Okay."
Xie Lian pulled his hands and slowly walked to the door. "Be careful of the threshold."
Hua Cheng didn't know how long he had been wandering around this Thousand Lantern Monastery. Naturally, he didn't need Xie Lian to remind him where to go. However, he still waited for Xie Lian to remind him before he lifted his boots. The silver chains on his boots jingled. The two of them walked out of the door and arrived on the long street.
After walking for a while, Xie Lian said, "Alright, open your eyes."
Only then did Hua Cheng open his eyes. In that instant, that pitch-black eye seemed to have been lit up like a bright lamp.
The long street was decorated with lanterns and streamers. Compared to the messy street in the past, it was a lot cleaner and tidier. It was as if every household had put in a lot of effort to tidy up their house. Their worn-out houses had all been replaced with new ones. The cornices were also sparkling, looking brand new. They didn't know when this group of ghosts had surrounded them. Just now, they didn't even dare to breathe loudly. As soon as Hua Cheng opened his eyes, he started blowing and beating with all his might. He chaotically shouted, "Happy birthday to the City Lord!" Taking advantage of the chaos, he blindly shouted things like "Bliss for a hundred years" and "Have a son soon".
Seeing this terrible effect, Xie Lian slapped his forehead. They had clearly trained for a long time and could barely shout in unison. Why were they still shouting in a mess now?!
Hua Cheng's face was expressionless. It seemed he wasn't moved at all. He only raised his eyebrows and said, "What are you guys doing? So noisy. "
The group of ghosts had already given up on the results of their training. They said, "If we die, then we die! In any case, there's no one here! "
Hua Cheng sneered. When he turned around, he saw Xie Lian standing behind him with both hands hidden behind his back. He said, "San Lang, I heard … … today is your birthday?"
As if he had been waiting for a long time, Hua Cheng crossed his arms and tilted his head to look at him. He smiled and said, "Mhm. That's right. "
Xie Lian lightly coughed a few times. Suddenly, he jumped up and put the longevity lock around Hua Cheng's neck. He said, "This … … was made in a hurry. I hope you don't dislike it!"
The longevity lock was carved with the same patterns as his wrist guard. There were maple leaves, butterflies, fierce beasts, and so on. It was extremely exquisite and contained a powerful spiritual power. With one look, one could tell it wasn't an ordinary item. One after another, the group of ghosts shouted, "Amazing! It's too beautiful! What kind of treasure is this! "
"Ah! Only the City Lord is worthy of this kind of treasure! Only this kind of treasure is worthy of the City Lord! "
Their shouting was extremely exaggerated, causing Xie Lian to not know whether to laugh or cry. The more nervous he became, the more he didn't know whether he should ask Hua Cheng what he thought. Hua Cheng also didn't say a word. However, his eyes were extremely bright and a smile appeared on his lips. He picked up the silver lock and seemed to be about to speak.
Unexpectedly, at this moment, a strange change suddenly occurred.
Xie Lian's knees suddenly went soft and he fell to the ground.
This was truly unexpected. The originally cheerful group of ghosts watching suddenly cried out in alarm. Hua Cheng's smile instantly disappeared. With sharp eyes and quick hands, he caught Xie Lian and said, "Gege? What's wrong? "
Xie Lian's face paled. He shook his head and forced a smile, saying, "Nothing … …"
Before he could finish speaking, his throat choked.
Oh no, it's coming again!
That inexplicable pain in his heart came again. This time, the pain was unprecedentedly intense, as if his heart was about to explode.
Xie Lian secretly cried out in alarm. He didn't expect the pain to come so fiercely. Moreover, each time it came, it was fiercer than the last. It just had to happen at this critical moment!
He could still be considered calm, but the sharp pain continued. It was as if someone was waving a peach wood wedge and hammering it into his heart. Xie Lian was in so much pain that it was difficult to breathe. He couldn't even lift his head as cold sweat dripped down his forehead. Hua Cheng's expression completely changed. "Your Highness?!"
He grabbed Xie Lian's wrist, but he still couldn't find anything. He said, "Your Highness! Where did you go yesterday?! "
Panicked shouts could be heard from all directions. Xie Lian opened his mouth, but it was as if something was nailed to his throat. He couldn't even speak.
Hua Cheng's arm that was holding him was trembling. Looking at Hua Cheng's handsome face, which was usually calm and composed at all times, stained with frantic anxiety, Xie Lian's heart felt as if it had been struck by a heavy hammer. Finally, he couldn't hold on any longer and fainted.
Before he lost consciousness, his mind was filled with the words' I'm sorry '.
Today was Hua Cheng's birthday.
●
After an unknown amount of time, Xie Lian suddenly woke up. Before he could even catch his breath, he blankly stared at the top of the sky. In a daze, he thought to himself, "This is … … Thousand Lanterns Monastery? How did I … … fall asleep? "
He was still slowly waking up when suddenly, a hand supported him. Hua Cheng's voice was close at hand. "Your Highness?"
Xie Lian raised his head. Sure enough, he saw Hua Cheng's face. Between his brows, there was a burning look. Xie Lian was startled. Just as he was about to open his mouth, a sharp pain came from his heart.
This time, he was completely awake. His entire body immediately curled up, his five fingers almost digging into the flesh of his chest. The strength was so great that it was as if he wanted to dig out his own heart. When Hua Cheng saw this, he immediately grabbed his wrist and said, "Your Highness!"
If he hadn't grabbed it quickly, Xie Lian's chest would have five bloody holes. At this moment, a voice sounded from the side. "I think something's wrong. How about you let him go first?"
Mu Qing was actually here. Hua Cheng said, "If I let him go, what if he hurts himself?!"
Feng Xin's voice immediately rang out. "I'll help you hold him down! If we don't quickly figure out what's going on, his pain won't stop! "
Xie Lian's body was bent over when he felt another hand grab his wrist. When he heard this, Hua Cheng's movements paused for a moment. Sure enough, he let go of him.
Speaking of which, it was strange. When he let go of Xie Lian, the pain dissipated quite a bit. In any case, Xie Lian could finally move. When he turned over, he found that Feng Xin and Mu Qing were standing beside the bed. They had probably been called over to help. Meanwhile, Hua Cheng stood not too far away, staring at him without blinking.
When he looked, Xie Lian's pain, which had faded with great difficulty, returned. When Mu Qing saw Xie Lian's expression change again, he said to Hua Cheng, "Stand further away! He seems to be in pain every time he gets close to you or sees you! "
When Hua Cheng heard this, his figure stiffened. His expression was extremely frightening and indescribable. However, he still immediately dodged and retreated outside the room. As soon as he disappeared from Xie Lian's line of sight, the sharp pain in Xie Lian's chest also abruptly stopped.
Xie Lian was almost driven crazy by the pain. He gasped for breath and said with difficulty, "This … … in the end … … what's going on?"
Mu Qing and Feng Xin still firmly held him down, preventing him from moving around and looking at Hua Cheng. Mu Qing said, "That's up to you! What's going on with you? You must've provoked something! "
Xie Lian said, "… … I've checked. I don't have any evil spirits on me."
Mu Qing asked, "Then did you go to any strange places these past few days?"
Xie Lian said, "The only places I've been to these past few days are Bronze Cauldron Mountain and … … the Imperial Tutor's Tomb."
Mu Qing frowned and said, "What? Imperial Tutor's Tomb? What Imperial Tutor's Tomb? "
Hua Cheng stood outside the room, but he already understood. He said, "Imperial Tutor Fang Xin's Tomb?"
Xie Lian said, "That's right. San Lang, you should come in … … "
Hua Cheng's heavy voice came from outside. "Gege can just stay here and recuperate. I'll go take a look."
Xie Lian immediately said, "I'll go too!" However, the moment he got up, he immediately lay back down in pain. After Hua Cheng said that sentence, he didn't make another sound. Presumably, he had already left. Xie Lian tried to get up again, but Mu Qing said, "I think you should stop moving around. You can't even walk!"
Xie Lian was pressed down by two people and four hands, but he was still struggling. He said, "It's not like I haven't felt pain before. I'll get used to it after a while." He couldn't just not see Hua Cheng just because he felt pain.
However, Mu Qing said, "You're willing to feel pain, but that San Lang of yours isn't."
Xie Lian stared blankly for a moment. He thought about the expression on Hua Cheng's face before he fainted from the pain, and then thought about the expression on Hua Cheng's face when he realized that he was in pain whenever he got close to Xie Lian. Xie Lian's breathing became sluggish, and his heart suddenly felt as if it was being torn apart. His face immediately turned deathly pale. Feng Xin and Mu Qing were both staring at him. Feng Xin asked in astonishment, "Didn't Bloodrain Tanhua leave? Why is he still in pain? "
Mu Qing was very sharp and said, "Were you thinking about him just now?"
Xie Lian clenched his teeth and endured for a good while before reluctantly saying, "What … Could it be … I can't even think about it?"
Mu Qing said, "Don't think about it. The more he thought about it, the more tormented he felt. Let me pour you a glass of water. "
Xie Lian didn't even have the strength to shake his head and say that it was over. Mu Qing got up to pour some water while Xie Lian closed his eyes and forced himself to calm down. But the calmer he was, the more worried he became. He didn't know what kind of evil creature had found him, but neither of them could find any clues. He really couldn't feel at ease leaving Hua Cheng alone. At this time, Mu Qing handed over the teacup.
The teacup was white and elegant. Hua Cheng had used it the night before. When he thought of this, Xie Lian's face paled again. He laid on the ground without saying a word. With one look, Mu Qing knew that Xie Lian couldn't control his own brain again. He couldn't even pass over the teacup in his hand. With a darkened face, he said, "Why do you always think about him? Do you not want your life anymore?! "
Xie Lian said, "… … How is this something I can control?" If he could say that he didn't want to be alone, then he wouldn't be alone. Then there wouldn't be so many worries and resentments in this world.
Mu Qing said, "I think we should just knock him unconscious. That way, he won't be able to control his own brain."
However, as Xie Lian's former attendant, Feng Xin would never hit Xie Lian. Of course, he also wouldn't allow others to hit Xie Lian in front of him. He immediately said, "No! I think you should talk to him more and divert his attention. That way, he won't keep thinking about Bloodrain Tanhua. "
Mu Qing said, "What can I say to him? No matter what I say, can't he think of Bloodrain Tanhua? It's better to just knock him unconscious! "
Feng Xin said, "In any case, we can't hit him! This way, he won't have the mood to think about anything else, right? I guarantee he won't have the time. I'll go first, I'll live as long as Mount Nanshan! "
Mu Qing hated this game to the bone, but he still reluctantly continued, "… … The mountains are poor, the rivers are evil."
Xie Lian really didn't have any other choice. He weakly continued, "… … The evil purple seizes the vermilion … …"
Just as he finished speaking, he curled up again. Mu Qing said in disbelief, "How can you think of him like this? This isn't related at all, right?! "
Xie Lian thought to himself, 'How is it not related? Vermilion, vermilion, vermilion clothes, red clothes. ' When he thought of red clothes, how could he not think of Hua City?
He couldn't endure such torture anymore. Using all his strength, he broke free from the two people who were holding him down. With a 'thud', he rolled off the bed. Even though Feng Xin and Mu Qing had long since anticipated that his explosive strength would be extremely strong and had secretly held back, they still weren't able to suppress him. Seeing him break free, they hurriedly went to restrain him. However, they were both slapped to the ground by his palm. Mu Qing raised his head and just happened to see him break through the door. He said, "Where are you going? Don't run around! "
Xie Lian, on the other hand, was almost at his limit. He took out two exquisite dice from his sleeves and tossed them before stumbling into a door.
Hua Cheng had said that if Xie Lian wanted to see him, no matter how many dice he threw, he would be able to see him. Xie Lian didn't know where the dice had brought him when he threw himself, but this time, he really did fall into someone's embrace. Hua Cheng's slightly startled voice sounded above his head, "Your Highness!"
Xie Lian hurriedly hugged him, afraid that he would disappear again. He said, "San Lang! Don't go by yourself. I … … will go with you … … "
Hua Cheng also seemed to want to immediately hug him, but his arms froze in midair. With great difficulty, he restrained himself and said, "Your Highness, quickly go back. You will be in terrible pain."
However, Xie Lian clenched his teeth and hugged him even tighter. With a trembling voice, he said, "If it hurts, then it hurts!!!"
Hua Cheng said, "Your Highness!"
Rather than sitting somewhere else and thinking about Hua Cheng and thinking about the pain, he might as well tightly hug Hua Cheng and let the pain kill him. The more painful it was, the tighter he had to hug him. Xie Lian's forehead was covered in fine beads of sweat. He said intermittently, "Wait for me for a moment, just a moment. I'll be fine soon. I'll get used to it. I'm very good at enduring pain. With you by my side, I can still endure the pain. If you leave, then it will really … … be so painful that I can't endure it anymore … … "
Hearing these words, Hua Cheng was stunned for a long time. After a while, he said in a low voice, "Your Highness … …"
This sound was like a sigh and pain, as if it was even more torturous than Xie Lian's. Xie Lian took the initiative to hug him tightly, waiting for the unbearable pain to pass.