C10 You will Not Die

"Okay, even if you are exceptionally gifted and managed to reach the third level of the Houtian realm in just two days—a feat that would take others two years—you're still nowhere near catching up to Yu Lin."

One is at the Houtian third level, and the other at the Xiantian fifth level. The gap between them is as vast as the difference between heaven and earth!

"You have one and a half days left. If you can advance to the Houtian fourth level, perhaps... you might save your own life."

Her expression was grave, her eyes brimming with sincerity.

Since she had come to terms with the reality, she had been earnestly contemplating the repercussions of Qin Xuan's participation in the Rite of Induction. Yu Lin was unforgiving and petty, hell-bent on claiming Qin Xuan's life.

Qin Xuan, on the other hand, had no experience in sparring with others. Despite his foundation in the martial arts at the Houtian third level, it seemed inevitable that he would meet his demise.

So now, the only thing to do was to find a way to preserve his life.

To be frank, times have changed. Qin Xuan wasn't exactly the favorite among the princes. If he were to perish during the Rite of Induction, it's doubtful anyone would seek justice for him.

Moreover, with the intricate ties between the Grayhands and Prince Qin Tan, no one would risk offending the Grayhands over the death of an ineffectual prince...

With these thoughts, she let out a sigh, feeling somewhat stifled.

"Fetch the Sword Manual. I'll teach you a technique that could save you from a fatal blow if Yu Lin decides to strike with lethal intent on the stage..."

Qin Xuan's gaze softened. "Are you concerned that I might die up there?"

"I'm worried you'll die a death unworthy of your status!" she retorted with a hint of vexation. "After all, we are betrothed. If you were to die under such unclear circumstances, it would... it would tarnish my reputation as well!"

Unable to bear the sight of his smug expression, she turned her face away.

Perhaps it was just his imagination, but for a moment, Qin Xuan thought he saw her delicate earlobes flush with red...

A wave of emotion stirred within him. In this palace, it seemed she was the only one who truly cared about whether he lived or died.

She was inherently proud and reserved, yet she found herself speaking so many earnest and heartfelt words in an attempt to persuade him, which must have been hard for her.

Wu Ji, growing impatient with his silent, goofy grin, snapped, "Fine, if you're seeking your own demise, it's none of my concern! If the worst happens, I'll simply find another husband once you're gone!"

With those harsh words, she spun on her heel to leave, but as she turned, an uncharacteristic shyness crept onto her face, the likes of which had never been seen on her before.

Qin Xuan was torn between laughter and tears, calling out to her retreating figure, "We are bound by fate in this life, destined to be together for eternity. For you, I will not meet death!"

He was determined not only to survive but also to triumph over Yu Lin—his entire 'fortune' was at stake.

Ding!

The system detected the host's emotional turmoil. Would you like to activate protection mode?

"What's this protection mode?" Qin Xuan asked, perplexed.

"Upon activation, the host will lose all five senses, becoming numb to pain and sorrow, fully absorbed in the rites and music system's upgrade process."

"And how is that different from being an emotionless tool?"

"It's an integral part of the rites and music system's defense mechanism..."

"Never mind that. Let's focus on how to advance in the martial arts realm more quickly."

He was in dire need of improving his realm; his very life depended on it.

Yu Lin didn't seem the type to play fair; there was a real risk he might resort to foul play.

"To gain more recognition from your audience and improve your skill proficiency, you can swiftly elevate your martial arts realm."

That was stating the obvious!

Qin Xuan rolled his eyes. He understood the principle, but he was trapped in the palace!

Prince Qin Tan had already stationed spies outside to thwart any attempt he might make to sneak out and register. Any slight move, and he'd be caught.

Without leaving the palace, where would he find an audience?

This was a real conundrum!

Was there no other way to earn the audience's approval?

Lost in thought, he noticed Squirt scampering over, clutching a piece of colorful silk, looking quite comical.

"Your Highness, guess who I just saw? It was none other than Miss Yanyu from the Sky-Kissed Pavilion!"

Miss Yanyu?

"The belle of Sky-Kissed?"

"Yes, that's her! I've discreetly found out that Miss Yanyu has entered the palace as a musician, likely for the upcoming birthday banquet of His Majesty."

"What's that in your hand?"

Squirt carefully set down the silk cloth, looking somewhat uneasy, "I found it on the way here. It must have been dropped by one of the musicians. I was just about to find someone to help return it."

A musician?

A birthday banquet?

A spark of inspiration flashed through Qin Xuan's mind, and he suddenly had a plan!

"Why look for someone else? I'll accompany you!"

Squirt blinked in surprise. "Your Highness, you wish to visit the Melody House? But haven't you previously criticized the people there for their poor taste and their chaotic performances? Why now..."

"Isn't Miss Yanyu there?"

"Oh, that's right. You did praise Miss Yanyu's exceptional music skill during our last visit to Sky-Kissed."

"Well, what are we waiting for? Lead the way at once! I intend to have a thorough exchange of music skills with Miss Yanyu!"

Squirt felt a bit troubled. What if Miss Yanyu wasn't willing?

Moreover, she was in the palace on official business. Was it really appropriate for His Highness to intrude so abruptly?

But Qin Xuan wasn't concerned with such matters. He was eager to find an audience, and as luck would have it, the Melody House had assembled quite a few who knew a thing or two about music. This was a great opportunity for him!

"Right, gather everyone you can, and let's head over together!"

"Ah? But..."

Qin Xuan didn't bother to explain further. He picked up his guqin and strode out.

Squirt, not daring to delay, clutched the silk and summoned the young eunuchs and maids from the Sylvan Lodge. They all hurried towards the Melody House.

At that moment, the Melody House was alive with light songs and graceful dances, the melodies of the guqin floating through the air.

The arrival of Qin Xuan and his entourage was a delightful surprise to the musicians.

Since he enjoyed playing the guqin and composing poetry, he had already established good rapport with many of the musicians, making the atmosphere exceptionally warm and congenial.

The head musician responsible for overseeing all affairs at Melody House was named Chunwan. She was acquainted with Qin Xuan and promptly approached to pay her respects. She also arranged for tea and refreshments to be served and invited him to take a seat.

Once Qin Xuan was comfortably seated and they had exchanged pleasantries, he inquired about the purpose of his visit.

Popping a grape into his mouth and scanning the surroundings, Qin Xuan mumbled, "I've heard that Melody House has composed a new piece for the Emperor's birthday celebration. I've come especially to have a preview!"

"I see," Chunwan replied, visibly relieved. "Should Your Highness find any aspect lacking, I would greatly appreciate your guidance."

With that, she efficiently set about directing everyone to their respective places, readying them for the performance.

A thought suddenly struck Qin Xuan. "How many people are in the Melody House today?"

"Excluding those yet to arrive, we have around seventy-four," she answered.

"Excellent, excellent!" Qin Xuan nodded in approval. For him, the more the merrier.