城市猎人：系统升级之王

Chapter 9: The Liu Family Castle

The next moment, a stunningly beautiful mature woman appeared on the television screen. Despite appearing to be in her early thirties with a tall, exquisite figure that made many self-proclaimed beauties feel ashamed, her elegant imperial attire accentuated her nobility and grace. Her radiant smile instantly captivated everyone watching.
"So beautiful." Even Li Nianlong, who believed Li Ying to be the most beautiful woman in the world, couldn't help but admire her charm and sincerely praised, "This is what a true woman looks like, fit for a queen."
Unlike Li Nianlong, a tinge of sadness flickered in Nalan Ruyue's eyes upon seeing the woman.
The woman was named Zhao Bingbing, the eldest daughter of the Zhao Family, one of the Ten Great Families, who was already fifty-five years old but looked only in her thirties, a testament to her meticulous upkeep.
Zhao Bingbing was once hailed as China's number one beauty, attracting countless elites and proposals, including suitors from nine out of the Ten Great Families. Ultimately, however, it was Long Qingyun who won her hand.
And Long Zongheng was Zhao Bingbing's son.
Despite his deep hatred for Long Zongheng, Li Nianlong did not hold Zhao Bingbing accountable. Moreover, she was worthy of his respect, having devoted herself to charity for decades. Not only did she raise immense funds for impoverished Chinese citizens, she also served as a global charity ambassador, striving to improve the conditions in poor countries and regions worldwide, earning international acclaim and being lauded as the world's most beautiful woman over the past fifty years.
But...
As Li Nianlong watched Zhao Bingbing on the screen, a hint of confusion crossed his eyes. Despite her makeup, it couldn't hide the fatigue on her face. What could have made someone of Zhao Bingbing's stature appear so weary?
Zhao Bingbing had now reached Long Qingyun's side, their eyes met, and they shared a smile. Witnessing this display of 'conjugal affection', Li Nianlong felt a strange sensation. He pointed at Long Qingyun on the screen and asked Nalan Ruyue, "If I told you I'm Long Qingyun's son, would you believe me?"
Nalan Ruyue blinked, smiled faintly, and signed, "What if I told you I'm Zhao Bingbing's daughter, would you believe me?"
Li Nianlong smiled slightly and handed her the phone...
"..."
Turning off the TV, Li Nianlong fetched his car from the garage and set off with Nalan Ruyue.
Li Nianlong owned three cars: a black Lamborghini, a white Range Rover, and a humble Panda for work. In a time when even school principals were cautious about driving luxury cars, it was wise for a teacher, especially a physical education one, to keep a low profile.
However, it wasn't a workday, and there was no harm in showing off, especially with a beauty like Nalan Ruyue by his side. Driving a Panda would have been beneath them. Having lived as a pampered son for over two decades, Li Nianlong lacked the mindset of a struggling commoner.
Cruising in his coolest Lamborghini, Li Nianlong showed Nalan Ruyue around. Although located in the suburbs, the city center was only a short drive away. There were markets and convenience stores nearby, ensuring no inconvenience in daily life, and the area was far from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it perfect for recuperation. Many retired officials and wealthy individuals had settled here.
With these esteemed elders residing in the area, security was top-notch. In the years Li Nianlong had lived there, only one theft had occurred, and the thief was caught red-handed, sentenced to thirty years. Rumor had it, he didn't survive his first day in prison, falling victim to multiple assaults. His remains were discarded in a mass grave, devoured by crows and stray dogs. After that, no thief dared to offend fate here again.
Meanwhile, as Li Nianlong familiarized Nalan Ruyue with the surroundings, Yue Chang and Yuexi arrived at an eastern suburban castle in Tianfu that was styled in traditional Chinese architecture. Surrounded by mountains and a vast man-made lake, the castle was graced with the soft cries of waterfowl and the intermittent sight of ancient buildings nestled among lush trees, all enclosed by towering walls reminiscent of ancient city fortifications.
Only the Liu Family, one of the Ten Great Families, could boast such a grand castle in Tianfu.
The Liu Family not only controlled Tianfu's military and political powers but also enjoyed a prestigious reputation in the southern martial arts community. Coupled with the local's exclusivity, the Liu Family in recent years had become a de facto regional lord, deferring to the Long Family's authority in name only.
Moreover, the other nine families, excluding the Manchu Nalan Family and the Central Plains Li Family who were closer to the Longs, including the Jingchu Xiang Family, the Lingnan Sun Family, the Tianhai Jiang Family, the Tubo Nan Family, the Dali Duan Family, and the Western Regions Adil Family, all maintained a facade of loyalty while secretly harboring dissent. The Xiang Family, in particular, was highly discontent, often plotting to overthrow the Long Family's rule.
The Xiang Family's dissatisfaction traced back a century to when the Jade Seal of State emerged, with the Xiang Family joining the competition alongside the Long Family. Unfortunately, destiny favored the Longs, who became the royal family while the Xiang Family returned home in bitterness. Back then, the Xiang Family was significantly stronger than the Longs, and everyone expected them to win. The Longs' victory was seen as a fluke, marking a century-long humiliation for the Xiang Family.
Though the Long Dynasty appeared prosperous on the surface, beneath lay turbulent undercurrents. Whether this was fortunate or unfortunate for the commoners remained to be seen.
The Liu Family Castle was not incorrect usage; rather, it was a renowned tourist attraction in Tianfu, a must-visit for outsiders. The locals even coined a saying, "Not a hero until you scale the Great Wall, not fulfilled until you enter the Castle." The castle referred to was the Liu Family's.
The Liu Family Castle perfectly showcased Tianfu's ancient defense features and the lifestyle of its residents. Inside the castle, not only were there antique buildings, but also quaint shops and stalls, even street performers, exuding the charm of ancient Tianfu. It was designated by UNESCO as the most well-preserved intangible cultural heritage site in China.
"At the city gate, they want to collect a toll? On what grounds?" At the entrance, Yue Chang and Yuexi were stopped by the 'city guards'. Hearing about the fee, Yuexi grew furious, and her anger spelled trouble.
Faced with Yuexi's captivating beauty, the guard remained patient and courteous, "Apologies, but that's the rule here. Every visitor entering the city must pay a 100 yuan toll, akin to buying an entry ticket to a zoo."
"Alright!" Yue Chang pulled Yuexi back and handed over 200 yuan with a gentle smile. "Sorry, my sister has a bit of a temper. Please don't take offense, sir."
Yue Chang's adorable charm softened not only the guard's stance but also his heart. He beamed, "No problem at all. Are you two sisters visiting the castle for the first time?"
"Yes." Yue Chang smiled, "Do you have any advice for us?"
"I'm not worthy to give advice," the guard replied with a seemingly amiable (but actually lascivious) smile, "You ladies are quite lucky. Tonight, we have the annual Summer Lantern Festival inside the castle. There will be beautiful lanterns and riddle-solving activities. It's best enjoyed with your boyfriends."
At the mention of boyfriends, Yuexi burst into laughter. "What a joke! What man in this world is worthy of us? Right, Changchang?"
Yuexi was up to her antics again.
Yue Chang smiled wryly, "Xixi, stop fooling around." Turning to thank the guard again, she led Yuexi inside.
"Why did you pull me, Changchang?" Yuexi pouted. "That guy had lecherous intentions. He's no good, and I haven't taught him a lesson yet!"
"Business first," Yue Chang's expression turned serious, her gaze sharp as she warned, "Let's not create unnecessary trouble."
Seeing Yue Chang's change, Yuexi too sobered up, nodding. "Where should we head first?"
Scanning the area, Yue Chang led Yuexi up to the city gate tower, offering a panoramic view of most of the castle. The bustling scene below included people shopping at stalls, resting in inns, and watching street performances, vividly depicting the lifestyle of ancient Tianfu residents. If they changed into coarse clothing and removed modern items, the scene would be indistinguishable from ancient times.
After a brief moment, Yue Chang suggested, "Let's head south first."