Chapter 1: Nanshi

"Luo Mingyu, what wind blew you here? You haven't set foot in my East Market for many years. How about it? The scale of this East Market is many times larger than it used to be. Back then, I said I would become the King of the East Market, and now I have. Are you here to congratulate me? Someone, bring out my vintage wine! Today, I want to drink until we drop with my good brother! No one leaves today until they’ve vomited!"

"I am truly so happy you could come. I wanted to invite you yesterday, but I didn't know how to ask. I was afraid that if I did, you wouldn't come, and I would be embarrassed in front of everyone!"

Three rounds of drinks later, Beifeng’s speech had become somewhat slurred. His tipsy gaze always held a faint smile. To him, the cheers and congratulations of others were mere superficial pleasantries; only Luo Mingyu’s presence felt like a genuine celebration. Without the Luo Mingyu of the past, there would be no successful Beifeng today. He had never forgotten the kindness and support Luo Mingyu had shown him.

"You’ve had too much. Get some good sleep; we can talk about anything else tomorrow." Beifeng was a lightweight, the typical "one-glass-down" drinker. As he had done in the past, Luo Mingyu draped Beifeng’s left arm over his shoulder, slowly hoisting his body up and moving toward the small bed behind them. Drunks were incredibly heavy, and Beifeng was rambling nonsense, reeking of alcohol—it was enough to make Luo Mingyu want to retch. If not for the favor he needed to ask, he would have thrown the man out!

The distance between the table and the bed was only about five meters, but Luo Mingyu was drenched in sweat by the time he reached it. The drunken Beifeng was restless, clutching Luo Mingyu’s neck like a koala, his massive frame wrapped tightly around him. It took every ounce of effort to finally dump the man onto the bed.

Luo Mingyu, who loved cleanliness, took a bath and changed his clothes before the smell of alcohol finally faded. He sat on a bench, watching the soundly sleeping Beifeng and listening to the waves of cheers outside. He seemed to merge into the thick night, his expression unreadable.

He slept well through the night.

Beifeng blinked, slowly sitting up on the bed. He tilted his head and gave a fierce stretch. That was a truly comfortable sleep. Was it really Luo Mingyu drinking with him yesterday?

Beifeng couldn't help but shake his head with a bitter smile. How could that be? How could Luo Mingyu have appeared? Ever since he annexed the old East Market and built a larger one, they had had no contact. He often drank with him, but only in his dreams.

"Someone, help me dress!"

Since becoming the King of the East Market, Beifeng never dressed himself; his servants did everything. After working hard for so many years, he deserved to enjoy being served.

A steaming bowl of white porridge sat on the table. Beifeng was pleased; these servants were becoming more observant, knowing that after a hangover, a bowl of porridge was essential for the stomach. The porridge was soft and sweet, just the way he liked it. Once finished, his body felt incredibly refreshed.

Today, Little Die was the one helping him dress. She was nimble, and he valued her highly.

"Little Die, I’ve reminded you so many times—I finally got to drink the hangover porridge you prepared for me today. Keep it up, and I’ll give you a raise. Happy?"

Little Die’s round face bloomed into a smile. "Of course I am happy if you give me a raise, sir. But someone else actually prepared the porridge. He’s outside practicing his martial arts right now. He said that once you woke up, you must go see him."

Little Die didn't want to take credit for work that wasn't hers. "Anyway, you look just as handsome today as you did yesterday, sir!"

Beifeng glanced out the window and indeed saw a man moving with agility. From his back, the name that had been hidden in his heart for years was on the tip of his tongue, but Beifeng still couldn't believe his eyes. Had Luo Mingyu really come? Was yesterday not a dream?

Beifeng dashed out of the room to the wide open space. He saw that familiar back—it was him, it was really him! He wasn't dreaming! He rubbed his eyes again; it was real!

Finishing his routine, Luo Mingyu seemed to sense the intense gaze behind him. He turned around and laughed, "What are you looking at? It’s only been one night; have you forgotten me already?"

That warm, gentle smile was Luo Mingyu’s trademark. Beifeng ran over in two or three strides and hugged his old friend, his body trembling slightly. There was so much he wanted to say, but he didn't know where to start.

"That's enough. You already harassed me yesterday; do you want to do it again today? If you can't handle your liquor, don't drink in the future. Do you know that when you're drunk, you ramble nonsense, and the smell makes me want to throw you out!"

Beifeng, now snot-nosed and teary-eyed, ruined Luo Mingyu’s clean, fragrant clothes. "I thought I was dreaming yesterday. If Little Die hadn't told me, I wouldn't have believed it! Since you’re here, don't leave. The East Market is too big now, beyond your imagination. I can't handle it alone; can you stay and help me?"

"No rush for that. Look at the state you’re in. Go clean yourself up before you talk to me. Everyone is watching—the dignified King of the East Market looking like this? Aren't you afraid they’ll laugh at you? I remember you being the type who cared most about face."

"Let them laugh; I don't care! You are my brother, my best brother. Your coming to help me is what makes me happiest. I care about face, sure, but I never care what others think of me. Can a person live their whole life in other people's mouths?"

"Come, come! Today, I must show you how prosperous the South Market has become! All these years, I’ve wanted to thank you. If not for you back then, how could I have achieved this?"

*South Market? Wait, why South Market? Isn't it the East Market?*

"The East Market I entrusted to you—how did it become the South Market? How did you promise me? Didn't you promise to look after the East Market well? Why haven't I heard any news about the East Market?"

Luo Mingyu’s expression finally turned grave. He had handed the East Market to Beifeng after losing a bet, hoping this man would manage it so that no one would be homeless and everyone would have food. What had this man done?

At this point, there was no use in hiding it. "Big Brother, I won't lie to you. The East Market has merged with my South Market. It was the only way to do what's best for them. After long development, your East Market hit a bottleneck. I spent a lot of time trying to save it, but I failed. At the same time, my South Market suffered heavy losses. I had no choice but to merge them, which is how we have the scale of the South Market today."

"I searched for you more than once, but you were nowhere to be found. I kept the seat of the East Market's master open for you, hoping that when you returned, we could accomplish great things together! That’s why I was so happy to see you. Come, come, go to the South Market, and you’ll see I haven't betrayed your trust. I’ll explain my new ideas to you slowly."

Beifeng pulled Luo Mingyu’s hand, ready to lead him away, completely oblivious to how dark Luo Mingyu’s face had turned. Luo Mingyu pulled his hand away forcefully and said coldly, "No, I’m not going. Actually, I came to find you to take back the East Market. You should know that I only entrusted it to you temporarily. Now that I have time, I want it back, but I never expected the East Market to be gone."

Luo Mingyu’s voice was calm, but it carried an irresistible force. Beifeng looked at him, not surprised. The East Market was Luo Mingyu’s foundation; you could say it was his child. Now that his child had been integrated into another family, Luo Mingyu naturally wanted to know if it was living well.

"Alright, I know you can't accept this in such a short time, Big Brother. But the East Market was already a mess. If I hadn't taken in your brothers back then and given them food, they would have died on the streets. Instead of being grateful, you’re accusing me? I see now—you didn't come to see me out of kindness; you’re here to make trouble, aren't you?"

Beifeng’s expression turned cold as frost. *Hmph, want to take back the East Market? Does it even exist anymore? The era belonging to this man is over.*

Beifeng’s face returned to a smile, "Big Brother, since you’ve come all this way, I must treat you well. For the next few days, eat and play as you please—it's on me. But please, don't mention the East Market again. As a brother, I’d appreciate that!"

Luo Mingyu’s heart ached. He had helped Beifeng when he was in trouble, yet this brat was now treating him this way. The outward respect hid a total lack of regard for him. *Since that's how it is, there's nothing left to say. I understand. Since you refuse to return it, I’ll have to take it back my own way. No matter how dilapidated or wretched it is, it is my life's work, and I won't let anyone hurt it!*

Luo Mingyu left, his departure resolute and without giving Beifeng any face.

Beifeng was stunned. He didn't feel he had offended Luo Mingyu; he had only spoken the truth. *Oh, he forgot—not everyone can accept the truth. He’s the same as before, so impulsive!* Beifeng pulled a handkerchief from his pocket, wiped the hand that had held Luo Mingyu, tossed the handkerchief away, and turned to walk off without looking back.

"Everyone listen up! That man who just left, Luo Mingyu, is my enemy. If he comes back, you can drive him out! He’s here to take the South Market from me. The South Market is doing so well—are you willing to just hand it over?"

Beifeng’s voice sounded like thunder, stirring giant waves in everyone’s hearts. These people relied on the South Market to survive; if someone came to smash their rice bowls, who would agree?

"No! We absolutely do not agree!"

The shouts grew louder and louder. He had achieved his goal. Luo Mingyu was known as the "Number One Young Master of the World" and was a man who valued his reputation. After this, he wouldn't dare come back. Otherwise, what would it look like for him to be brawling with common laborers?

***

"Young Master, your expression is grim. Did things not go well?"

Wen Ren was the leader of the Twelve Musicians of Mingyu Manor and was always steady. That was why Luo Mingyu had brought her along, hoping she might offer some good ideas.

"Indeed, another failure. I should have expected this outcome, but I couldn't give up hope, thinking Beifeng might remember our past bond and return the East Market. You were right—I am too naive. I treated my brother well, but I shouldn't have expected him to do the same. It’s too difficult."

Was Luo Mingyu feeling depressed or angry? Perhaps both.

"Manor Lord, he is a good man, but a good man should not be treated this way," Wen Ren said. "Do you still consider Beifeng your brother? You haven't been brothers for a long time. Someone like Beifeng will turn heartless once he gains power. Your heart is too kind, and doing these things is too hard on you. Since he is a rogue, you should let a rogue handle him. I’ve thought of someone—the most suitable person. Only he can get this done."

The person Wen Ren thought of, Luo Mingyu had thought of too: Liang Xi!

"It seems I have no choice but to find that boy, Liang Xi. I heard he and Ji Anran have been living in seclusion at the South Region Sword Sect lately, living quite happily. I wonder if he’s willing to give up his stable life to help?"

Luo Mingyu didn't know who else he could trust.

"Manor Lord, if there is one person left in this world worth trusting, it is Liang Xi!" Wen Ren believed it firmly.

***

Lately, Liang Xi had been living very happily. He slept until he woke up naturally and ate the freshest food every day. His tasks were simple: practice martial arts, admire the moon, and talk nonsense with Ji Anran and Gu Zhenzhen. Even if someone offered him a god's life in exchange, he wouldn't trade.

"What’s wrong? You’ve been moody lately. Is something bothering you? If so, why not say it? You’ll feel better."

Ji Anran noticed from small details that Liang Xi hadn't been happy lately. She roughly knew why—Liang Xi wasn't a man content with leisure; such a life only consumed his fighting spirit.

"Anran, is this the life we really want? I know it isn't. I think we should go out and get active. We’ve rested long enough."

Liang Xi sensed that something was about to happen. More importantly, he knew this was something only he could accomplish.

"Brother Liang, someone is here to see you. He says his name is Luo Mingyu. He looks very anxious; something must have happened for him to come to you."

*Luo Mingyu? The Lord of Mingyu Manor? Good, great!* Finally, he had something to do. When the Sword Sect’s butler, Old Wang, finished speaking, Liang Xi jumped up, full of excitement.

"Quick, let him in!"

Liang Xi was so excited he was nearly incoherent. *Is the adventure beginning again? I’m really looking forward to it. What kind of thing could make Luo Mingyu come to me?*

Luo Mingyu was forcing a smile; the exhaustion in his eyes couldn't be hidden. Ji Anran and Gu Zhenzhen were old acquaintances of Wen Ren, so they naturally pulled her aside to chat. "Come, come, let’s go talk somewhere else. Let’s leave this place to these two men."

Wen Ren, touched by their enthusiasm, nodded and gestured toward Liang Xi. *Only he can handle this.*

"Well, it’s been a while, and you’re living quite comfortably, kid. You must be riding on Ji Anran’s coattails. If she weren't an elder of the Sword Sect, you wouldn't be a guest of honor here."

"Brother Luo, at a time like this, are you still in the mood for jokes? Between brothers, what can’t we say? Why beat around the bush? Whatever trouble you’ve run into, your brother will help with all his might."

Liang Xi valued friends; that was his nature. No matter how much time passed, that would never change. "Big Brother, I’m glad you came to me when you were in trouble. Tell me, what could possibly stump the Number One Young Master of the World?"

Luo Mingyu took a sip of wine and finally spoke: "When you were at Mingyu Manor, do you remember me telling you about the East Market?"

Liang Xi nodded. "I remember. You said the East Market was everything to you, that you could lose anything but that. But later, you made a bet with someone and mortgaged the East Market to him. You two agreed that if you ever wanted it back, you could have it at any time, and he would not have a word to say!"

"Exactly," Luo Mingyu said. "But the heart of a man is hidden behind his skin. I finally understand what that means. Before coming to you, I went to see Beifeng—the one I made the bet with." Liang Xi nodded, signaling him to continue.

"I told him I had the time now and wanted the East Market back. But I never expected that he would have annexed it without my consent! I was shocked and furious. When I tried to ask about the situation, he wouldn't say a word, and in the end, he threw me out. Brother, your Liang family is the richest in the world; I believe you must have a way, right? I want nothing else—only the East Market."

Liang Xi understood the situation now. "Good, Big Brother. I understand. Did you have a written agreement?"

"No, it was all verbal. It’s my fault—I trusted him too much and wanted to help him. Who knew he would be so heartless? On the way here, Wen Ren even said I was too kind. 'Number One Young Master of the World'—I think I should be called 'Number One Idiot'."

Liang Xi laughed heartily. "Big Brother, that’s not true. You’re a good man who has helped many people—that’s right. You’re just too honest. This Beifeng is a total rogue. It just so happens that I am a rogue too. A rogue dealing with a rogue—that’ll be exciting! Leave this to me. Don't worry."

Since Liang Xi had said so, he must have a way. Luo Mingyu felt incredibly grateful. He had come to Liang Xi hoping for a chance, and to his surprise, it had worked out. A true friend is always worth trusting.

The three girls finished their chat and came out. Everything was clear—what was the plan? Simple: go and demand the property!

"Now that we know the situation, let's move out! Let's see what kind of person this Beifeng is. If he cooperates, fine. If he doesn't hand it over, we fight. No need for rules when dealing with a rogue!"

"Leaving already?" The Sword Sect knew Liang Xi would leave eventually, but they didn't expect it to be so soon. They couldn't stop him, but Ji Anran was an elder—how could she just leave?

"Yes, thank you all for your care during this time. I am very grateful. If not for this, I would have stayed longer, but I have very important work to do. My brother came to me because he trusts me, and I cannot disappoint him."

"Brother Liang, the doors of the Sword Sect are always open to you. But Miss Anran is our elder; we cannot let you take her. Please forgive us!"

Ji Anran was not pleased. "You two old things, trying to stop me? Fine, if you can beat me, I’ll stay. Otherwise, I’m leaving. I’m an elder, and if the sect is ever in danger, I will return. But right now, Liang Xi needs my help. Are you really going to stop me? You can't keep me here anyway, so don't waste your energy!"

"Liang Xi, let’s go!"

The group utilized top-tier movement techniques and disappeared from the Sword Sect before the elders could even think of pursuing them.

"That was so much fun! Did you see the look on those people’s faces? Their noses were crooked with anger. So interesting! The air is better outside. The Sword Sect is nice, but I was getting tired of it."

Gu Zhenzhen, the youngest, was happy as long as there was something fun to do. "Mr. Luo, after we get your East Market back, can I visit Mingyu Manor? I’ve heard many rumors about that place, but I don't believe a word of them. I want to see for myself what it’s really like."

Luo Mingyu laughed. "Why not? I spread those rumors myself. I like quiet and don't like being disturbed. I never expected the rumors to get so bizarre. A perfectly fine place turned into a den of iniquity—naturally, that’s my fault."

"After we cross this mountain, we’ll reach the South Market. This used to be my place, but now, Beifeng has stripped away all its character. It’s a waste."

Liang Xi looked at the sky; it was still early. If they hurried, they could reach the South Market today. "Big Brother, let’s go to the South Market first and see if your old brothers are still there. I’m worried that your departure pushed them into danger."

Luo Mingyu smacked his head. "Right, right! My brain—I didn't think of that. If my old brothers died because of me, I would be devastated."

The South Market was lively—the largest and busiest place for a hundred miles. Every day it was bustling. Although crowded, it was orderly. It was no longer just a market but a majestic city, shining beautifully in the sun.

"Finally here. The road was tough. I’m hungry—let’s get into the city and get some food. Inns and restaurants are always the best places for news."

Xiaoyao Tower was the largest and best restaurant in the South Market, always packed. The manager was constantly being scolded by customers, not because of the food, but because the wait was too long.

Liang Xi had a way to deal with this. He stood at the entrance of Xiaoyao Tower and pulled a bag of yuan crystals from his pocket, saying loudly, "Whoever is willing to leave, these crystals are yours!"

Everyone had seen yuan crystals, but a bag of crystals the size of eggs? Who had ever seen such rare specimens? The man looked extraordinary and must have a wealthy background. If he was willing to spend that much for a meal, they could satisfy his wish.

"Me! Give them to me!"

Liang Xi tossed the crystals into the air, and the group walked in slowly. Behind them, the crowd scrambled frantically for the crystals, as if a second’s hesitation would mean losing out. It was truly an ugly sight.

"Problem solved. Now, let’s eat."

Liang Xi’s philosophy was that most things could be solved with yuan crystals; if they couldn't, then it was a real problem. The manager, a wily old man, knew that Liang Xi was the leader and that his generosity meant he shouldn't be trifled with. He wore a fawning smile. "My lords, what would you like? This shop has the best of everything; you won't regret it."

"The best of everything? You dare say that? In a small place like the South Market, what good could you possibly have? Fine, I won't make it hard for you. Bring out your best dishes. If we’re satisfied, there will be rewards. But don't try to fool us with garbage. I might not be able to tell, but look at these three ladies—they have very discerning palates. If it’s not good, they’ll know. Now, go prepare!"

The manager looked at the three ladies. They were all exceptionally beautiful and dressed elegantly. He believed Liang Xi completely.

"Liang Xi, you love to talk nonsense. Since when am I picky? And how would I know if it’s the best just by tasting it? You’re such a liar!"

"A liar? Yes, I am. Anran, you don't know this, but this manager is a snob. If I hadn't used the crystals to suppress him, how do you think he would have treated us? Look around—everyone eating here is well-dressed. Commoners have no chance to get in. This means the Xiaoyao Tower only serves the 'noble.' Some people are just naturally more noble than others!"

"If I hadn't said that, this greedy merchant would have served us garbage and then charged us a fortune. I’ve seen his type since I was a kid."

"The food is here!"

The manager served the food himself—eight dishes and one soup. He was very cautious, fearing one misstep would offend this god of wealth. "My lords, the food is ready. Please taste."

Liang Xi laughed, "Our three ladies only eat the best. Your food is... passable. I’ll taste it first. If I say it’s good, they’ll eat. If I’m not satisfied, well, we’ll see about your shop."

The manager was suffering inside. *Where did this little demon come from? Is he here to cause trouble?*

Liang Xi picked up a piece of chicken. It was tender and fragrant—not bad. The greens in chicken fat were also well-prepared. It seemed that while the manager was a scoundrel, the chef had real skill. After a round of tasting, Liang Xi remained silent, his face unreadable. He ate elegantly, using serving chopsticks—very proper.

The manager’s heart pounded. *He eats with such elegance; he must be from a noble house. How could someone like that be here to cause trouble?* "Sir, are you satisfied?"

Liang Xi was satisfied, but he couldn't let it show. He couldn't give the man any chance to be smug. "Hmm, it’s... okay. It’s edible. For a small place, it’s not bad. Everyone, let's eat."

The manager finally let out a sigh of relief. *Thank goodness I didn't cut corners.*

"Manager, you must have been in business in the South Market for a long time. You know the ground and the people, right? Good. I want to ask you something. Answer well, and there’s a reward!"

*Ask something?* The manager’s spirits lifted. He knew everything that happened in the South Market. "Sir, it would be my honor to serve you. You’re right; I’ve been here for exactly twenty years. Ask me anything."

Liang Xi placed two fist-sized yuan crystals on the table. *Clack.* The sound was solid. The manager’s eyes lit up. His plan never failed.

"If you answer well, these are yours."

"Tell me, who is the master of the South Market? What is his temperament? Does he have any hobbies?"

The manager didn't hesitate. "The master is called Beifeng. His temperament? He’s mean and ungrateful, yet full of ambition. But few people see him—rumor has it he did something terrible in his youth and doesn't dare go out. Everything is handled by his right-hand man, Wang Yidao. As for his hobbies, I know one—he loves chicken, especially this 'mouth-watering chicken' you just ate. He eats it once a week; if he doesn't get it, he gets furious."

"Where can I find this Wang Yidao?"

The manager hesitated, clearly thinking the questions were worth more than the reward. Liang Xi saw right through him.

*Clack.*

Another fist-sized crystal landed on the table.

The manager’s face broke into a smile. "Oh, right! Wang Yidao usually drinks at the Qingshan Tavern. It’s rumored that the owner is his mistress. I don't know if that’s true."

The questions were finished. "Take these three crystals. Remember, don't tell anyone about these questions!" The manager knew better than to talk. *If I can use these people to get rid of Wang Yidao, who has always bullied me, that would be a huge win.*

"Liang Xi, your questions are expensive!" Ji Anran said, feeling a bit of heartache.

"Expensive, but worth it. Let’s eat, then go to the Qingshan Tavern. Let’s see what this Wang Yidao is made of. If he’s Beifeng’s right-hand man, he’ll know even more. And from the manager’s tone, they have a grudge. Taking him out is no big deal."

Cutting off Beifeng’s left and right arms would leave him isolated. When they finished, the manager emerged, his back soaked in cold sweat. The pressure from this group was immense.

*Fight! Fight each other to the death! Then the East Market will be mine! Wang Yidao, you finally have someone to deal with you!*

The Qingshan Tavern was small, with only four tables. Outside, there were four large wine jars. A yellowing flag displayed the character 'Liu'. It seemed the owner was named Liu.

"Guests, you must be from out of town. You look tired and thirsty. Our plum wine is the best for quenching thirst. Please, come in! Why stand outside?"

A woman around twenty greeted them happily. She wore a green dress and a washed-out floral apron. With her bright eyes and graceful figure, she was a standard beauty.

She was the only one working, so she was incredibly fast. The place was small but clean. After all the bustling, beads of sweat appeared on her smooth forehead.

"Little Liu, I’m back! You should agree to my proposal this time! You know how I’ve treated you all these years. I, Wang Yidao, am being very sincere. If you remain indifferent, don't blame me for being rough!"

When the tavern owner, Little Liu, heard this shout, her body trembled slightly. She was afraid. The tremor was slight, but it didn't escape Liang Xi’s eyes. A burly man walked in. He was not just bold, but crude. A black iron chain was wrapped around his waist, connected to a long blade as thick as an arm—this was Wang Yidao’s trademark, along with the crisscrossing scars on his body.

*For such a beauty to be with a man like this... it’s an outrage!*

"Can't you see the lady is afraid? What are you shouting for?" Liang Xi said.