Chapter 603: Conspiracies from All Directions

Chapter 603: Conspiracies from All Directions

Hearing Mu Yuanfeng’s puzzled voice, Mu Yiting grew anxious. She had been so confident, believing that Lin Nuo would definitely be recognized by her grandfather and rightfully become her fiancé.

But now, he seemed to have completely forgotten about the Tianyuan Domain matter and even asked what it was.

She thought to herself, although he was old, his memory shouldn’t be that poor.

Mu Yiting anxiously asked, “Grandfather, you must remember the martial arts matchmaking, right?”

“Martial arts matchmaking? I know about that. The matchmaking you arranged had me invited as a guest to watch the competition. So, how does that relate to what you said?”

“It’s just that he was the final victor, and then you thought he needed further tests, leading to him occupying the Tianyuan Domain, which he succeeded in, but Grandfather, you were too busy to come at that time.”

“I remember that both martial artists in the finals were assassinated, leaving no victor. How could there still be any issue with the Tianyuan Domain?”

Mu Yuanfeng continued to feign ignorance, making Mu Yiting even more anxious. It was as if he was disavowing any connection to her situation.

“How could this be? Clearly…”

“Iting, if you have someone in mind, Grandfather can take a look at him, test him out. But right now, with so many guests, let’s discuss this later.”

Mu Yuanfeng interrupted Mu Yiting and then began to entertain the other guests, completely dismissing the matter.

Those who had just scorned Mu Yiting and her companions were now delighted. Where was Mu Yuanfeng’s approval? Did they really think others didn’t know this was nonsense?

“Oh dear, so many martial artists were harmed in the matchmaking, and now you’ve found a wild man? The key is that Lord Mu Yuanfeng hasn’t recognized you; you guys really are something!”

“Indeed, thinking about our big brother Xu Hu’s tragic death, could it be you arranged this?”

“The Li Huo Society has lost its elites as well. If it weren’t such a joyous occasion today, we would really need to ask for an explanation!”

…

More and more people came over to taunt them. After the last matchmaking event, various factions were nursing grudges and seizing the opportunity to mock.

But Mu Yiting didn’t pay them any mind; all she felt was guilt towards Lin Nuo. She had thought her grandfather, Mu Yuanfeng, would acknowledge him, only to be met with such rejection.

He was directly denying this marriage; it was evident how little it was valued.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t expect this to happen…”

Mu Yiting held Lin Nuo’s hand, feeling quite remorseful.

“It’s fine. Nothing to be surprised about.”

Lin Nuo responded calmly. In the underworld, it was common for people to flip on each other. Let alone the underworld, even in upright sects, there were those kinds of people. Did they really think everyone was a gentleman? If that were the case, so many people wouldn’t have died.

“I’ll sit at the regular table; you go share a seat with your grandfather.”

Lin Nuo said, then parted ways with Mu Yiting, heading for the regular seating.

The situation had changed. With Mu Yuanfeng’s selective amnesia, forgetting the straightforward matters entirely, Lin Nuo felt his efforts had been in vain, leaving the Tianyuan Domain free for Helong Hall to take advantage of.

Still talking about tests? After you’ve gotten a free ride, you come back for more? Truly shameless.

Lin Nuo grew increasingly convinced that Mu Yiting was in a weak position. Originally, he had planned to showcase himself in this upper-class social venue to gain recognition, but now, even if he caught someone’s eye, he would merely be a tool, bringing them benefits only to be forgotten shortly afterward. How could they even remember who he was?

Moreover, he was currently under Mu Yiting’s banner, working tirelessly to expand her influence, but everyone he faced was wary. If he sought to please others, they would only see ill intentions.

There was no choice; he hid in a corner, nibbling on some food while considering other options.

Those at the venue were exchanging gifts and blessings. Seeing Mu Yuanfeng grinning widely, it was a rare high point for someone his age.

But it was merely a fleeting brilliance before sunset. Soon enough, the glory of the Helong Hall would be without Mu Yuanfeng.

Such was the trend of history; in the underworld, death was a common occurrence.

As for the king of the underworld, the second-in-command, he had unknowingly arrived at the scene, mingling with the crowd.

Compared to other leaders, his attire was very ordinary; he appeared kind and unassuming, not conspicuous at all. He approached without even being noticed.

He shared a seat with Mu Yuanfeng, giving gifts and blessings like everyone else, and conversed without any highlights. Unlike the other leaders who boasted of their achievements, he remained calm and steady.

The scene looked harmonious, and Lin Nuo felt he had walked into an ordinary family banquet; it was too serene.

…

One day prior.

“Second-in-command, here is the list of organizations invited to Mu Yuanfeng’s birthday banquet.”

“Hmm, good.”

The second-in-command of Helong Hall took the list, glancing through it.

“There are quite a few. Numerous organizations are present, even the Refining Demon Sect. However, the representative sent by the Refining Demon Sect, Mu Lao, really doesn’t have much face; none of the higher-ups came. But, it’s understandable; a frail old man like him doesn’t warrant such attention from others.”

The second-in-command chuckled, placing the list on the table.

“These organizations each have their own agenda, coming to curry favor with Mu Lao for some benefits. It seems like a black alliance, but in reality, they are a scattered bunch. The Refining Demon Sect must be itching to move, which is good; I can use the Refining Demon Sect to bring them all under my command.”

The second-in-command murmured to himself, already hatching a plan. He had various strange talents under his command, and this time he had even invited illusionists, who would soon cause a scene at the birthday banquet.

Illusionists specialize in illusions and mind interference. In a venue packed with various forces, stirring discord was the best strategy.

On such a day of celebration, everyone would restrain themselves, not daring to cause trouble. However, illusionists could induce hallucinations, disrupt their consciousness, causing tempers to flare. Since everyone had grievances towards one another, it would take just a spark to ignite a full-blown conflict.

Especially for several leaders, anyone causing a ruckus at the birthday banquet would undoubtedly lose face, further diminishing their image in Mu Yuanfeng’s eyes. If chaos ensued and he stepped in to settle it, it would certainly boost his reputation.

When it came to cunning schemes, he was a professional.

“It’s about time to go. I’ll be waiting for a good show.”

He smirked, putting on his outer garments and stepping out the door.

…

By now, various forces had arrived, and Lin Nuo had almost finished the plate of peanuts on the table. He had to admit, the peanuts at Helong Hall were delicious; he could go for another plate.

He noticed that the Refining Demon Sect hadn’t shown up yet, thinking to himself that they really were a bunch that loved to put on airs, delaying their attendance.

No choice; perhaps it was wishful thinking—having sent an invitation, they had no intention of coming, merely leaving an empty seat—a truly awkward situation.

Lin Nuo stepped outside to use the restroom.

However, just as he left, the group from the Refining Demon Sect arrived, led by Ling Yuan.

“Ah, the Refining Demon Sect has finally arrived.”

Seeing this, Mu Yuanfeng immediately grew excited and rushed over to greet them.