The riverbank was lined with willows.

It was noon, right on the dot, and the blazing sun hung overhead.

Off in the distance, Dragon Ford Ferry Crossing was full of ships. They were tightly packed, and travelers were as numerous as carp in the river. It was an extremely lively scene.

Not long after Su Yi reached the shore, a Swiftlight Sparrow descended from the skies, carrying a sealed letter and a cloth pouch in its sharp claws.

Then, beneath Fu Qingyuan and Gu Caining’s stunned gazes, Su Yi took the letter, opened it, and read its contents:

“Young Lord, after you arrive in the Jade Capital, you can proceed to Auspicious Lane on the west side of the city. You can take up temporary residence in the third courtyard on Peach Glyph Alley, a place called ‘Pinewind Villa’. It’s been empty for years. Please, accept it with a smile.

“The Jade Capital is the imperial city, and its borders include one hundred and eight star towers. Each is manned by an expert of the Shadow Dragon Guards, who keep watch for disturbances within the city to prevent disasters from arising. Young Lord, as you conduct your affairs, stay on guard, or the Shadow Dragon Guards will set their sights upon you.

“We...