The King of Xiuxianjuan returns to modern times and becomes a landlord

As Ying and Ni walked through the alleys, a complex and rich aroma greeted them: a blend of spices, tobacco, and exotic herbs. Like a prelude to a mysterious discovery, it instantly ignited the excitement and curiosity of every visitor. On either side, a dazzling array of small stalls were scattered in an orderly manner. The stall owners held various postures, some sitting leisurely, while others stood upright, watching. Their faces wore an indescribable smile, their eyes intertwined with cunning and alertness, as if they could read the thoughts of every passerby.

To the uninitiated, these stalls resemble a vibrant treasure trove, showcasing a myriad of rare and exotic treasures. From simple, elegant, historically rich antique porcelain to exotic and exotic playthings, from rare medicinal herbs to legendary manuals containing mysterious knowledge—each item is dazzling, transporting one to a dreamlike world. However, to Ying Li, these stalls exude a whimsical, machine-made atmosphere, obscuring the true charm and precious value of antiques.

As Ying and her companions slowly entered, the whispers between stall owners and buyers intertwined into subtle bargaining battles. Without careful listening, it was almost impossible to discern the whispers of business deals or the coded language of some secretive negotiation. In the dim, sparsely lit corners, several figures slipped past. Some wore dark, mysterious cloaks, others wore simple, elegant bamboo hats, their faces covered with a variety of masks. Like travelers from the depths of history, each carrying their own hidden secrets and missions, they silently advanced through the night.

Ying Li knew full well that in this seemingly chaotic yet orderly black market, every transaction reflected a strict adherence to unspoken rules. Both the parties involved and the patrolling guards worked together to maintain the delicate balance and hidden order of this land. This place revealed the hidden side of the capital, the dark corners beneath the glittering light, inspiring both imagination and awe.

Ying Ni looked down upon these stalls, as she knew very well that what she needed would never be found in such places.

"Sister, this place doesn't seem that scary. I don't think there's anything eye-catching." Chen Yiran looked around and said softly.

"These stalls are just the fringes of the black market, filled with worthless goods, just to deceive those inexperienced people. The real black market has not yet appeared. You must follow me closely. Once you step in, remember not to look around casually, because the people inside are definitely not the ordinary people outside." Ying Li once again solemnly warned Chen Yiran, making sure she stayed close to her to prevent any accidents.

Ying Ni led Chen Yiran and slowly walked into the depths of the alley.

In a slightly dim open space in the alley, a tall man with slightly flamboyant clothes, with a bit of arrogance, followed behind him a few younger brothers who were also young but seemed a little timid. Their eyes showed awe for the big brother, but also a hint of curiosity and uneasiness about what was about to happen.

"Hey, little sister, come here and let me take a good look at you." The man's voice was deep and magnetic, yet it carried a hint of frivolity that couldn't be ignored. His words were like a sudden gust of cold wind, causing the temperature to drop a few degrees. The girl was overwhelmed by this sudden force, her petite body trembling slightly, her eyes gleaming with fear and helplessness. She was wearing a simple white dress, which looked particularly thin in the night wind, as if she would be swallowed up by this indifferent world at any moment.

The man's smile was particularly glaring in the dim light, a smile tinged with amusement and contempt. He slowly approached the girl, each step seeming to tread upon her heart, leaving her feeling incredibly oppressed and desperate. The surrounding younger brothers, though silent, their eyes and gestures cheered on the eldest brother's "bravery," as if this were a premeditated game, and the girl the innocent prey.

"Sister..." Chen Yiran witnessed this scene with a sense of fear, and subconsciously moved closer to Ying Ni. In such an environment, she knew she would never show mercy easily. After all, her grandfather had warned her not to meddle in other people's affairs.

"It's okay." Ying Meng keenly sensed Chen Yiran's fear, and instead of intentionally interfering in the matter, she softly gave her some comfort.

Ying Huan gently removed her mask, and Chen Yiran, observing her, removed her own. Then, Ying Huan gracefully led Chen Yiran towards the burly man. She gently handed the exquisite invitation to the auction to the man and politely requested, "We would like to meet Master Gui. We would be grateful if you could guide us."

The burly man's interest in Ying Ni was piqued the moment he caught sight of her. As he noticed her slowly approaching him, he couldn't help but wonder if she was seeking a fleeting romance. However, before he could ask, a golden invitation was quietly handed to him. Then, Ying Ni made an unexpected request—she wanted to see the Ghost Master.

The burly man and the younger brothers behind him straightened their backs instantly, obviously realizing that this was not someone who could be easily provoked.

"Okay, Xiaoqi, you will lead this distinguished guest." The burly man pointed to a younger brother beside him, motioning him to lead the way, and gave him a meaningful warning look.

"As you command, big brother." A thin man came out and walked towards Ying Ni respectfully, saying softly, "Please follow me."

Ying Ni gestured to Chen Yiran to follow the thin man.

As the thin man led Ying Ni into a courtyard, shops and pedestrians along the way retreated, avoiding their group. Ying Ni knew they were avoiding him out of fear of the thin man. Their purpose was clear: to purchase what they needed, and they didn't want to get into any complications, so they had no choice but to seek their help. After all, in this area, they were like local tyrants, with immense power.

"Dear guest, Master Gui is waiting quietly in the inner room. I am of humble status and cannot step in, so I have to trouble you to go in on your own." After the thin man finished speaking, he turned around resolutely and left without hesitation.

Ying Ni gently pushed open the heavy door and stepped into the courtyard. A desolate and bleak scene greeted her. The courtyard seemed empty and desolate. As Ying Ni approached, she saw an ancient house standing quietly before her. The lights were dim, revealing an inexplicable silence and loneliness. Behind the counter beside the door, a figure could be vaguely seen sitting, like a silent statue, quietly watching over this silent world.

Ying Ying gently took Chen Yiran's arm and slowly walked to the counter, tapping the surface with her fingertips, making a crisp sound. "Ghost Master, it's been a long time. This time, we need you to lead the way for us."

"Hey, little girl, it's been a long time since we last met. Why are you here with Mr. Chen's invitation this time?" The person behind the counter slowly raised his head, and what came into view was a face full of traces of time, and his voice revealed a bit of hoarseness and vicissitudes.

"When this black market event started, I happened to be traveling and failed to receive the invitation in time. I had no choice but to borrow Mr. Chen's invitation to enter." Ying Li explained.

"I see. Let's follow the usual practice. Please rest for a while. When everyone is present, I will naturally lead you down. Also, please be sure to keep this properly." Gui Lao took out two strips of cloth from the cabinet and handed them to Ying Meng.

Ying Ni took the cloth and then led Chen Yiran to the side to wait. Soon after, people began to gather one after another.

"Everyone, please gather in the yard and be sure to wear the cloth strips. I declare in advance that if anyone does not follow the rules and does not wear the cloth strips, don't blame me for being cruel." Gui Lao clapped his hands lightly, and in an instant, dozens of burly men rushed out of the house and surrounded Ying Li and others.

Ying Ni gently covered her eyes with a piece of cloth and carefully tied a knot behind her head, while Chen Yiran beside her followed suit and did the same.

Under the threat of everyone, others could only follow Gui Lao's instructions and no one dared to disobey.