[Featured ×4]
Du Rui, an exceptionally forgetful reader, finds himself transmigrated into one of the top male harem stallion novels, but as the antagonist. Now inhabiting the role of Xue Xinyu, the cunning villain, Du Rui struggles to maintain his s...
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"Here we go," Xue Xinyu thought to himself, steeling his nerves as he prepared to step into the grandeur that awaited. "Time to fake it till I make it. Or till I trip over my own feet and become the laughingstock of the sect. Whichever comes first." He took a deep breath, mentally rehearsing the phrases and polite nods he'd been perfecting in front of his mirror for the past week. The butterflies in his stomach, however, were less than cooperative, staging a full-blown riot.
Standing outside the room was Feng Mingzhu, adorned in elegant robes that seemed to shimmer with every step he took. His attire was even more elaborate than usual, each layer a tapestry of intricate embroidery and fine silks. In this world, elegance was a standard; however, special occasions like these seemed to elevate the sartorial game to a whole new level. The flowing sleeves and delicate patterns on his robes made him look like a majestic crane gliding through the air.
Upon entering the grand hall, Xue Xinyu's eyes widened at the sight before him. The space was vast, with high ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and lanterns that cast a warm, inviting glow. Multiple small sitting tables, each an island of opulence, were adorned with an array of snacks that looked too beautiful to eat. Delicate pastries, exotic fruits, and an assortment of teas and delicacies beckoned to the guests like sirens of the culinary world. It was the kind of spread that could make a monk question his vows.
Feng Mingzhu and Xue Xinyu found a table and sat next to each other. Xue Xinyu tried to relax, but his eyes kept darting around the room, cataloguing the presence of the other peak masters and high-ranking officials. His nerves prickled as he noticed Li Tao was conspicuously absent, replaced by a stern-looking representative from his peak. This year, Hongyan Peak would be hosting the Wayfarer Trial, a prestigious event where the sect's disciples showcased their skills.
Stepping to the front of the hall were Sect Master Zhuang Tianming and the peak leader of Fenghuang Peak. The room quieted, all eyes turning to the sect master.
"Thank you, everyone, for gathering here today to assist in the planning of the Wayfarer Trial," Zhuang Tianming began, his gesture welcoming. His presence commanded attention, his voice resonating with authority. "Not everyone here has as much to do as some of the peak masters, but your presence is nonetheless appreciated."
"We've recently encountered some small malfunctions with the Wayfarer Trial's barrier," Zhuang Tianming continued, his gaze resting on Xue Xinyu like a hawk eyeing its prey. "Xue-shidi, who erected the barrier, we must ask you to take a look at it later."
Xue Xinyu bowed slightly, his face flushing with a mix of pride and anxiety. "Of course," he responded, hoping his voice didn't betray his nerves. The thought of inspecting the barrier filled him with a mix of dread and determination.
What if the problem was bigger than he anticipated? What if he couldn't fix it? What if the barrier malfunctioned and accidentally released a horde of zombie squirrels? He quickly dismissed those thoughts, focusing on the task ahead.
