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Chapter 94 - Chapter 94: A Grand Gift

The group of six ceased their idle chatter and approached the grand gate of Xiuyang Upper Palace.

The guards stationed at the gate quickly bowed in salute upon seeing the three high-ranked Rune Generals. Shortly after, three more generals clad in rune-etched armor arrived. They saluted the three Rune Generals and presented square rune tokens, which they pieced together to open the grand gate.

Fanzhu explained, "The gate of Xiuyang Upper Palace only opens three times daily—at dawn, noon, and dusk. Aside from merchants, shopkeepers, and noble servants, ordinary Da Fu citizens are not permitted entry. Even the nobility, whether from Da Fu or other nations, must enter or exit only during these designated times. We are fortunate to accompany the three Rune Generals today."

Once inside the upper palace, the group walked down its bustling streets.

"This is where we part ways," Sang Yang announced. "We must report back to the court. Qin Ji, do visit my Fusan Clan sometime. I promise to host you warmly."

Ji Ning echoed, "With the token I gave you, you're a guest of honor at the Fuji Clan. Even if you knock on our manor doors at midnight, you'll always be welcome."

Although Yue Ze said little, his expression was warm, and his gaze toward Qin Ji reflected newfound respect.

Qin Ji returned their courtesies with a bow. Smiling, he replied, "Your generosity is duly noted. I shall pay my respects to your clans someday and trouble you with my presence."

Before departing, Sang Yang gave a stern reminder to Zhao Wu and his companions: "We will report the matter of Zhang Yi to the Rune Sage King shortly. Until then, you must not disclose this to anyone—not even your elders. The palace punishments are not something you wish to face."

Zhao Wu shuddered at the warning and nodded repeatedly.

The three Rune Generals soared into the sky and headed toward the royal court of Xiuyang Upper Palace.

As they departed, Zhao Wu let out a long sigh of relief. "It's exhausting to be around figures as formidable as ancestors for so long. I could barely breathe."

Fanzhu nodded in agreement and turned to Qin Ji with a smile. "I've never seen Rune Generals treat juniors with such warmth. We owe this rare experience to you, Qin Ji."

Qin Ji chuckled but said nothing. His attention was drawn to the lively street before them.

Though called a palace, Xiuyang Upper Palace was more akin to a city, spanning over twenty miles in length and width. Besides merchants and commoners, it housed many Da Fu nobles, prominent families, and foreign dignitaries, making it a true city of elites.

The street they stood on was a bustling commercial hub. Shops and stalls lined the thoroughfare, manned by vendors of various appearances: humanoid figures with tiger heads, wolf-like beings walking upright, towering giants over two zhang tall, and dwarves half the height of an average human.

These vendors called out loudly to promote their wares, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of flourishing ancient markets from Qin Ji's previous life.

Seeing his amazement, Fanzhu's lips curled into a playful smile. "You've mentioned countries more wondrous than Da Fu, but have you seen commerce as developed as ours?"

Qin Ji merely smiled in response, offering no reply.

Fanzhu continued, "Da Fu's strength is undeniable, but we are confined to a territory spanning just over ten thousand li. In the endless wilderness beyond, many powerful nations and clans thrive. It's said that the central regions of the wilderness boast nations of immense scale, filled with countless mighty beings."

"Yet, when it comes to commerce, Da Fu holds its own. Our natural borders—a vast mountain range to the east and an 800-li-wide river to the north—provide unparalleled security. Moreover, our prosperity stems from trading rune tokens, which has made our commerce flourish."

Qin Ji nodded. He was already aware that three centuries ago, Da Fu was but a weak tribe. Through two generations of wise rulers and their trade of rune tokens, they had established a vast and formidable nation in just three hundred years. Now, few dared provoke the mighty Da Fu.

"Qin Ji," Zhao Wu interrupted, "why not accompany me to the Zhao Clan? Let me host you properly."

After some thought, Qin Ji pulled out the rune token gifted by Ji Ning. "I appreciate the offer, but I must first settle into my own accommodations. Ji Ning granted me an estate, and I should inspect it."

Zhao Wu nodded in understanding and bowed. "Once you've handled your affairs, please visit the Zhao Clan. It would be an honor."

Qin Ji returned the bow. "Do go back and ease your family's worries."

After Zhao Wu departed, Qin Ji turned to Fanzhu, who said, "The estate Ji Ning gifted you is on the same street as my family's manor. I'll guide you there."

The two walked and observed the customs of Da Fu along the way. Before they knew it, half an hour had passed, and they arrived at a tranquil street called Zhongjing Lane.

The street was lined with elegant and unique courtyards. Some were grand, spanning dozens of acres, while others were more modest but artistically designed.

Fanzhu stopped before a courtyard with a crimson gate. Pointing at it, she said, "This is the estate Ji Ning gave you."

Qin Ji looked up at the plaque and saw two characters: Yanxiang (Mist Haven).

"Who would've thought Ji Ning, with his fierce demeanor, would name an estate so poetically," Qin Ji remarked, stroking his chin.

Fanzhu chuckled. "His demeanor isn't the only thing fierce. Ji Ning has the worst reputation among the Rune Generals. He's known for ruthlessly killing and tormenting non-Da Fu bloodlines. It's said his estate even houses a dungeon where he tortures captives from other clans."

Qin Ji frowned, glancing at the rune token in his hand. Why would someone like Ji Ning gift me an estate just because I mentioned mourning Ji Xiu?

Fanzhu added casually, "Perhaps Ji Ning's love for Ji Xiu moved him to repay your kindness."

Ignoring her teasing, Qin Ji's eyes glimmered as he activated his Sunlit Eyes, gazing into the estate.

What he saw made his brows furrow in intrigue. Strange, ominous sights filled his vision, and his Great Sun Spirit-Suppressing Furnace within him stirred faintly. A sly smile crept across his lips.

Fanzhu asked, "Are you going to enter?"

"Of course," Qin Ji replied, his smile deepening. "This is quite the grand gift."

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