"By the way, Gu Yuntong seems to have gone out on business and may not return to the Imperial City for some time."
Shen Yehong said, "Why don't you come to the palace with me? My father would be very happy to meet you. They were overjoyed to hear you've arrived in the Imperial City."
"That might not be a good idea!" Lu Fan shook his head and said, "We came to the Imperial City specifically to cause trouble for the Gu family. If we enter the palace, it would imply a connection with the royal family, and the Gu family would then hold us accountable."
"The royal family holds the highest authority within the Imperial City. How would the Gu family dare to do such a thing?" Shen Yehong shook her head. "Moreover, my father has assured me that as long as you are in the Imperial City, you will be under his protection." Su Dan Novel Network
"That's before anything has happened!" Lu Fan chuckled. "Once something happens, it will be different. The Gu family, as a noble clan of the Taiyan Dynasty, will not give up so easily."
Shen Yehong was somewhat helpless. Lu Fan's words were not without reason, and she had no intention of refuting them.
As they were talking, outside the Immortal Dwelling, a group of people suddenly arrived. The leader was dressed elegantly, holding a paper fan, and walked towards the Immortal Dwelling.
"Little sister, I told you to introduce me, but you made me come here myself."
Shen Tian smiled and approached Lu Fan and the others, appearing harmless.
"Second brother, why are you here!" Shen Yehong frowned. "And without even notifying me."
"If I had notified you, I probably wouldn't have met these people," Shen Tian said with a faint smile, cupping his fists towards Lu Fan. "I am Yehong's second brother, and also the Second Prince of the Taiyan Imperial Dynasty. I hope I haven't intruded!"
"So, it's the Second Prince!"
Lu Fan cupped his fists slightly, feeling a bit curious as to why the Second Prince had come.
"Second brother, your sudden arrival is quite inappropriate," Shen Yehong said directly. "They don't know you!"
"I know that intruding like this is indeed a bit inappropriate,"
Shen Tian smiled. "However, the disciples of Tongtian Academy are all peerless prodigies. If I want to befriend them, this is the only way."
"Your Highness the Second Prince flatters us."
Bi Qing chuckled. "Although Tongtian Academy is renowned, we are merely disciples within it. We cannot be compared to a prince!"
"That's where you're mistaken. Those who can enter Tongtian Academy are no ordinary individuals."
Shen Tian smiled faintly. "Since we have the fate to meet today, why not share some wine and become friends?"
"Second brother, you didn't come here with ulterior motives, did you?" Shen Yehong rolled her eyes. "They are my fellow disciples and have nothing to do with you. I think it's best to forget it."
"How can that be? Wouldn't that be impolite?"
Shen Tian said earnestly, "Besides, I am inviting them because I want to befriend them. Don't you agree, little sister?"
"Since it is second brother's wish, how can I dare to disobey?" Shen Yehong said directly. "However, if second brother wishes to invite them, he naturally needs their consent."
"My esteemed guests, do you have time?" Shen Tian asked with a smile. "I have come to the Immortal Dwelling with great sincerity, hoping to befriend you all."
"Since Your Highness the Prince has personally invited us, how can we refuse!"
Bi Qing said with a light laugh. "We shall respectfully accept your invitation."
"Come, prepare quickly! Serve all the specialty dishes of the Immortal Dwelling. We must not neglect my distinguished guests!"
Shen Tian instructed a guard, his eyes filled with joy. He was well aware of the high status of Tongtian Academy, and being able to befriend its members was a great opportunity for him.
Within the Taiyan Dynasty, there were many princes, and a struggle for succession was inevitable. If he could forge connections with these individuals in advance, it would undoubtedly be of great help in the future.
Shen Yehong naturally saw this, which was why she was so displeased. However, this was her second brother, so she couldn't say much. Yet, in her heart, she did not look favorably upon this behavior.
They arrived at a private room in the Immortal Dwelling. Shen Tian personally poured wine for everyone, showing great deference, completely unlike a prince. Although he was high and mighty, he understood very well that he had to lower his stance before these experts to win their favor.
"Second brother, I've never seen you so attentive in the palace," Shen Yehong remarked. "You're not even this polite to Father."
"You wouldn't know this, but this is the Imperial City, and you are all esteemed guests of the royal family. How could I possibly neglect you?"
Shen Tian smiled faintly. "Besides, these are your friends. How could I put on airs in front of them?"
"I don't think so!"
Shen Yehong rolled her eyes. "The reason you're doing this is that you have other intentions."
"Some things don't need to be said too clearly!" Shen Tian rolled his eyes. "Why don't you understand, you silly girl?"
"Of course, I understand!"
Shen Yehong shrugged. "I just find it hard to accept, as your approach is too aggressive."
"What are you two talking about?" Liuli asked, confused. "I don't quite understand."
"It's best that you don't understand. If you did, you'd lose your appetite."
Shen Yehong smiled faintly. "However, the Immortal Dwelling has many specialty dishes, and my second brother has gathered them all. We can enjoy ourselves tonight."
The group conversed and laughed, their eyes showing a hint of joy.
"By the way, there's a ball game in the palace soon. Are you all interested in participating?"
Shen Tian smiled. "This ball game does not allow the use of spiritual energy, and the winning side will receive generous rewards."
"Ball game?"
Lu Fan was a little surprised. "How have I never heard of ball games in the Spirit Realm?"
"To put it simply, it should be a polo match."
Shen Yehong explained, "This kind of ball game is frequently seen in our royal family. It's normal that you haven't heard of it, as it's only popular among the royalty."
"I see!" Liuli quickly chimed in. "If that's the case, the ball game should be very lively!"
"Naturally, every ball game attracts a lot of attention," Shen Yehong nodded, then looked at Shen Tian. "Second brother, you have ulterior motives, wanting them to participate in the ball game!"
"Since there's nothing else to do in the Imperial City, why not join the fun!" Shen Tian said directly. "I just don't know if you are willing?"
"Since Your Highness the Prince has personally invited us, how can we refuse?"
Bi Qing said directly. "We would also like to see this ball game!"
Lu Fan hesitated for a moment, then nodded slightly. He actually didn't want to enter the palace, but it seemed he had no choice now.