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Hu Liena, Xie Yue, and Yan stood dumbfounded—this was the first time they had ever seen Ju Guan like this!
The three of them had practically grown up under Ju Guan's watch and had spent considerable time with him.
They thought they understood his personality well, which was precisely why they were so shocked.
"Could this be Elder Ju's brilliant strategy?"
Hu Liena glanced at Ju Guan's back, then at Zhongli and Paimon.
Paimon was Zhongli's spirit—building a good relationship with her was equivalent to building one with Zhongli, wasn't it?
Thinking this, Hu Liena couldn't help but inwardly praise: As expected of Elder Ju!
Why didn't I think of leveraging this connection?
Truly, no one who becomes a Titled Douluo is simple.
Xie Yue, deep in thought, wasn't entirely sure.
He wasn't as "clever" as Hu Liena, so his perspective wasn't as "profound."
He simply felt that Ju Guan must have some deeper intention behind his actions!
Ju Guan: "..."
Yan scratched his head—his brain wasn't built for this kind of thinking.
He only saw the surface level, and in fact, he was the one closest to the "truth."
Ju Guan truly had no ulterior motives—he just genuinely liked Paimon.
Overthinking leads to mistakes—this phrase perfectly described Hu Liena and Xie Yue.
The surrounding spies shuddered—this was a promise from a Titled Douluo!
Most importantly, Ju and Gui are inseparable.
Gaining Ju Guan's promise was equivalent to gaining Gui Guan's as well!
Two Titled Douluos...
Wait, wasn't Paimon herself the spirit of another Titled Douluo?
At this realization, the spies trembled—this news was explosive! They wondered if their family heads or sect leaders could handle it.
The scholars and refined gentlemen remained silent—they knew when to speak and when not to.
Some even quietly slipped away, fearing this place might become a "danger zone."
Two Titled Douluos gathering—what if they overheard something they shouldn't? Would they even survive?
Ignorance is bliss.
Of course, while some feared death, others did not!
Their eyes burned with curiosity, ears perked, ready to catch any "secrets."
After a long while, Ju Guan finally remembered his original purpose for coming to the teahouse.
His main goal was to find Paimon's "master," not just chat with Paimon.
Reluctant but compelled, he gave Paimon an apologetic look before turning to Zhongli.
"Advisor Zhongli, I've come on an important matter. Might we speak privately?"
His tone was exceedingly polite, even clasping his hands respectfully.
From the intelligence he had, Zhongli's strength likely surpassed his own.
After all, Zhongli possessed a 100,000-year spirit ring—Ju Guan did not.
Never underestimate the power of a single spirit ring—just look at Tang Hao...
At this thought, Ju Guan shuddered.
As one of the survivors of that battle, his fear of Tang Hao—and of 100,000-year spirit rings—was bone-deep.
Seeing Ju Guan finally return to the main topic, Hu Liena and the others sighed in relief.
Ju Guan had been enthusiastically discussing snacks from the Star Luo Empire, signature dishes of the Heaven Dou Empire, and specialties of Spirit City.
If he kept chatting with Paimon, they'd be here until dinner...
Calling Zhongli "Advisor" was appropriate—officially, he was an advisor to the Crown Prince's residence.
Since Ju Guan didn't know Zhongli's "title," simply calling him by name would have felt too casual—even disrespectful. Hence, "Advisor Zhongli" was the safest choice.
Hearing this, Zhongli pondered briefly before nodding.
He had already guessed Ju Guan's purpose.
It was likely an invitation to join the Spirit Hall.
Otherwise, why bring Hu Liena and the others along?
Knowing he was a "Titled Douluo," yet bringing juniors to "cause trouble"—that would be suicidal.
Clearly, Ju Guan wasn't here to pick a fight.
Before Zhongli could respond, Paimon fluttered to his side and whispered:
"Zhongli, it's almost dinnertime. Since Grandpa and the others came all this way, why don't we treat them to a meal?"
"We can talk business over food!"
She spoke softly, afraid Zhongli would see through her real motive.
But Paimon underestimated everyone.
Who wouldn't guess her intentions?
After all that food talk, she must be hungry!
Paimon thought Ju Guan was a great guy—he'd even promised to bring her treats. That's why she suggested dinner.
"Very well, no problem."
Zhongli replied without changing his expression.
Classic Paimon—bought over with a few empty promises.
He'd just charge the meal to the Crown Prince's residence—let "Xue Qinghe" foot the bill.
Spending their own money to entertain their own people...
"Xue Qinghe": ???
In no time, the teahouse emptied.
With Zhongli gone, the scholars had no reason to stay.
The spies rushed back to report—who had time to idle over tea?
—
Seven Treasures Hotel
A familiar place, a familiar setup.
When the manager saw Ju Guan and the others, he froze. Then, spotting Zhongli and Paimon, his confusion deepened.
What's going on?
Why is Advisor Zhongli with a Spirit Hall elder?
Though puzzled, he quickly regained his composure.
Until things are clear, don't jump to conclusions.
As a direct descendant of the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Clan—and Ning Fengzhi's cousin—he naturally recognized Ju Guan.
Whether Ju Guan remembered a "small fry" like him was another matter.
Hurriedly ushering them into a private room, he took their orders before quietly excusing himself.
"Strange, why does the manager look so troubled?"
Paimon glanced at the door, muttering to herself.
Zhongli's eye twitched—here we go again!
If he responded, would it trigger a "quest"?
Go ask the manager what's wrong?
"Of course he's troubled!"
Ju Guan smirked, a hint of disdain flashing in his eyes.
Seven Treasures Hotel?
If this place wasn't connected to the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Clan, he'd eat his hat!
This manager was probably some nobody who recognized him.
"Then what's bothering him?"
Ju Guan: Isn't it obvious? It's because he saw me with you!
But he couldn't say that outright.
"His house must be on fire."
"Eh?"
Spoken like a true Ju Guan—his words dripped with honey.
Zhongli shook his head, then turned to the three standing behind Ju Guan.
"Young friends, please join us."
At this, the three exchanged glances, surprised...
Note: So far this story is published up to chapter 130 on my patreon, go check it out and remember that if we reach the goal of 20 power stones I will publish the next chapter.