The atmosphere in the teahouse grew increasingly tense, and Yun Mengting felt like a string, ready to tug at any moment. Shen Jingxuan stepped into her line of sight, attempting to attract the attention of those prominent figures, while Yun Mengting struggled to remain calm, doing her best to record any useful information. "In this game of power, wisdom and decision-making are equally indispensable," she mused, her ears perked up, listening intently to the conversation. "I heard that Liu Tianjiao has recently been close to a powerful official in the southwest, and this has made those established factions wary." The man's voice was low and confident, with a hint of unease. "Yes, the tactics Liu Tianjiao uses in front of the powerful official are impressive. If we can mediate, perhaps we can gain some protection," another woman echoed, her eyes as sharp as a cheetah's. Yun Mengting's heart trembled; this information was exactly what she needed. Just as she was about to take further notes, the exile quietly approached and whispered, "I've noticed they seem to be referring to a mysterious organization called 'Night Shadow,' surprisingly able to operate freely within the power structure." "Night Shadow..." Yun Mengting muttered the name silently, jotting it down. She understood that this organization had complex connections and might be closely tied to Liu Tianjiao's plans. Shen Jingxuan was conversing with the woman, exuding great grace and charm, seemingly successfully capturing her interest. Yun Mengting breathed a sigh of relief; the delay bought her precious time. "Liu Tianjiao's attempts to manipulate Xiao Qingyi will only intensify. We must be prepared," someone muttered, warning the others. Yun Mengting was wary, sensing a potential threat. She could sense a faint sense of oppression in their words. Just then, a crisp sound shattered the tense atmosphere. The teahouse door flung open, revealing several men, elegantly dressed and sullen, who entered with menacing presence. "Search!" the leading black-clad man shouted, and the patrons in the teahouse retreated, the atmosphere suddenly tense. The exile frowned, and with a quick glance, he directed Yun Mengting and Shen Jingxuan, "Quick, conceal your identities!" Yun Mengting, alert, quickly lowered her head, obscuring her features. In this sudden situation, she pondered her response. "What are you talking about here?" one of the black-clad men demanded of the assembled dignitaries, his tone cold and ruthless. "Nothing, just ordinary chit-chat," one of the men grudgingly replied, his expression slightly uneasy. "Ordinary chit-chat? But you're talking about Liu Tianjiao?" The black-clad man's eyes were sharp, like a hawk, staring at them, clearly sensing a hidden agenda within the teahouse. Yun Mengting held her breath, listening to his every word, sensing a growing sense of unease. Shen Jingxuan, realizing the shift in the situation, turned back and gestured to her, signaling for her to prepare. "We're here to gather information. Don't get too nervous," Shen Jingxuan said calmly, trying to lighten the mood. A sneer curled the corners of the black-clad man's lips. "Do you know what the price of gathering information is?" As soon as he finished speaking, he suddenly stepped forward, staring at Shen Jingxuan. Immediately, a strong sense of hostility filled the air, and the entire teahouse fell into a dead silence. Amidst this tense situation, the exile reacted quickly. He and Yun Mengting exchanged tacit understandings, preparing for the impending conflict. "I think we should return here. After all, this deal is meaningless," the exile said calmly, trying to divert attention. "You're right," Yun Mengting, observing the situation, joined in the conversation, trying to calm the situation. The black-clad man's eyes suddenly grew cold and sharp, as if he were deep in thought. Just as he was about to speak, Shen Jingxuan's voice suddenly rang out. "I'm just seeking support for my friends. How do you think we should ensure our own safety?" He asked calmly and politely, his calm tone breaking the tense atmosphere. This question slightly eased the atmosphere in the teahouse. The man in black seemed to ponder, his gaze shifting between Shen Jingxuan and Yun Mengting. Just then, subtle movements were heard again, and more targets converged. The atmosphere in the teahouse felt like a powder keg, poised to explode at any moment. Yun Mengting understood that this was a rare opportunity; she must use this moment of respite to gather intelligence and protect her companions. At this moment, her first plan of action flashed through her mind. "We might not be enemies. Perhaps we have the intelligence you need, in exchange for a moment of uninterrupted peace." Her voice surged over the clinking of glasses, attempting to guide the negotiations. With her words, the atmosphere in the teahouse shifted subtly. Everyone's eyes were instantly fixed on her. This game of power and conspiracy had just begun, a complex web of relationships intertwined, waiting for her wisdom and courage to unravel. In this turbulent situation, she was sure to face many challenges.

Tap the screen to use advanced tools Tip: You can use left and right keyboard keys to browse between chapters.

You'll Also Like