From the fake emperor to the concubine

This woman was not only beautiful, but also shrewd and had a keen business sense. He himself hadn't expected any of this.

“What you say makes sense,” Zheng Yi said. “Then, in your opinion, what should be done?”

"It's very simple," Miss Hongyu said with a smile. "First, young master needs a resounding name. This name should be powerful and memorable."

"Secondly, I will use the Jade Pavilion's channels to spread the word about your deeds, young master. The Jade Pavilion has many branches throughout the Tianyuan Domain, so news spreads quickly. Before long, the entire Tianyuan Domain will know your name."

"Finally, when you take on jobs in the future, use this name. Over time, your reputation will naturally grow. Then, it will be much easier for you to make money."

Zheng Yi pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "Alright, we'll do as you say, young lady."

"Has the young master decided on a name yet?" Miss Hongyu asked.

Zheng Yi was taken aback.

A title? He hadn't really thought about that.

"It needs to be something imposing," Miss Red Rain advised. "Ideally, a name that inspires awe just by hearing it. Like 'Bloody Hand,' 'God of Slaughter,' or 'Asura.'"

Zheng Yi frowned and began to think.

Bloody hands? That's too gory.

A killing god? That's too ostentatious.

Asura? That sounds a bit tacky.

He thought for a long time, various names flashing through his mind, but he was not satisfied with any of them.

"Young master, there's no need to rush. Take your time to think it over," Miss Hongyu said with a smile. "This title will be with you for the rest of your life, so you really need to consider it carefully."

Zheng Yi continued to ponder.

He recalled his experiences over the years. From the Xuan Tian Domain to the Tian Yuan Domain, he had endured countless battles and killings. Many times, he operated under the cover of night, silently eliminating his enemies.

Night
“Dark night.” Zheng Yi suddenly spoke.

"What?" Miss Hongyu was taken aback.

“Let’s call it Dark Night,” Zheng Yi said. “What do you think of that name?”

After savoring the moment, Miss Hongyu's eyes gradually brightened.

“Dark Night,” she murmured. “Yes, it’s a good name. Dark Night—silent and still, yet fraught with danger. It evokes a sense of mystery and carries a chilling feeling.”

"Moreover, this title matches the young master's style perfectly. He always acts swiftly and decisively, leaving no survivors, like an assassin in the dark, making him impossible to guard against."

She became more and more excited as she spoke, "Let's call him Dark Night! From now on, young master will be 'Dark Night'!"

Zheng Yi nodded, quite satisfied with the title.

Dark Night—simple, easy to remember, and undeniably imposing. From then on, he used this name as he traveled throughout the Tianyuan Domain.

“Then it’s settled,” said Miss Hongyu. “Starting today, I will begin building momentum for you, young master. Before long, the name ‘Dark Night’ will spread throughout the entire Tianyuan Domain.”

"Thank you, young lady," Zheng Yi said.

"You're too kind, young master," Miss Hongyu said with a smile. "You helped me avenge my family, so it's only right that I help you with this small favor."

She paused here, a hint of curiosity flashing in her eyes.

"By the way, young master, I heard that you killed five experts at the Great Ascension Realm on the way to escort Master Zhou back to Tianyuan City?"

"Yes." Zheng Yi nodded.

"What is the young master's true strength?" Miss Hongyu asked tentatively.

Zheng Yi glanced at her, but didn't answer directly; he just smiled faintly.

Seeing this, Miss Hongyu didn't press the matter further. She was a smart woman and knew what to ask and what not to ask.

“Young Master’s strength is beyond my estimation,” she smiled. “But one thing I’m certain of is that you are definitely one of the top experts in this Tianyuan Domain. With you here, I believe the name ‘Dark Night’ will soon resound throughout the Tianyuan Domain.”

Zheng Yi smiled slightly and remained silent.

After chatting for a while, Zheng Yi got up to say goodbye.

"Please take care, young master." Miss Hongyu saw him to the door. "I will inform you immediately of any news."

“Okay.” Zheng Yi nodded. “By the way, young lady, I may have to leave Qingyun City for a while.”

"Oh? Where are you going, young master?"

“Tianyuan City,” Zheng Yi said. “I plan to bring my family there.”

"I see." Miss Hongyu nodded. "Tianyuan City is indeed a good place, much more prosperous than Qingyun City. Young Master will have many more opportunities there."

“Yes,” Zheng Yi said. “I may be traveling frequently between Tianyuan City and Qingyun City in the future. If you have any news, please send someone to inform me.”

“Okay, Hongyu has remembered,” said Miss Hongyu.

Zheng Yi nodded, turned around and left the Jade Pavilion.

Walking down the street, Zheng Yi was in a good mood.

This escort mission not only earned him a million spirit stones, but also made him famous. From then on, he was "Dark Night," a mysterious master who struck fear into the hearts of all.

Having this title will make things much easier, whether it's getting jobs or handling other matters.

“Dark Night,” he murmured, a slight smile playing on his lips.

When he returned to the mansion, everyone was waiting for him.

"Master, how is it?" Zheng Bowen asked.

"Everything went smoothly," Zheng Yi said. "Miss Hongyu agreed to help me build momentum, which will make it easier for us to make money in the future."

"That's great!" Everyone was very happy.

"By the way, from now on, when we're out, don't call me Master or Young Master Zheng," Zheng Yi said. "Call me Dark Night."

"Dark Night?" Everyone was taken aback.

“This is my new name,” Zheng Yi explained. “From now on, I will use this name when I travel in the Tianyuan Domain.”

Everyone suddenly understood and nodded.

"Dark Night. What an imposing name," Zheng Bowen exclaimed.

“Yes, it sounds very impressive,” Xiao Tianxing echoed.

Su Wanqing didn't speak, but there was a strange look in her eyes when she looked at Zheng Yi.

The name "Dark Night" is indeed very suitable for him.

"Alright, enough chit-chat," Zheng Yi said. "Everyone, pack your bags; we're getting ready to head to Tianyuan City."

"Leave now?" Zheng Bowen asked in surprise.

“Yes,” Zheng Yi said. “Qingyun City is just a small border town, not suitable for long-term residence. Tianyuan City is the place we should go.”

Everyone nodded and went to pack their luggage.

Half an hour later, everyone finished tidying up and gathered in the courtyard.

Zheng Yi looked at everyone and said, "Before we set off, I have a few things to tell you."

"First, once we arrive in Tianyuan City, we must keep a low profile. Tianyuan City is full of hidden talents and experts; we mustn't easily get into conflicts." "Second, in the future, do not reveal our true identities. I am Dark Night, and you are my subordinates, understand?"

"Third, once we arrive in Tianyuan City, I will find everyone a place to stay. Then, Su Wanqing will continue leading the hunt, Zheng Bowen and Xiao Tianxing will be in charge of gathering intelligence, Zheng Hongzhi will be in charge of setting up defenses, Liu Ruyan will be in charge of logistics, and Chen Feng will be in charge of miscellaneous tasks. Everyone should perform their duties and not act recklessly."

Everyone responded in unison, "Yes!"

Zheng Yi nodded and said, "Okay, let's go."

He released his spiritual power, lifted everyone up, and flew south.

Three days later, the group arrived at Tianyuan City.

This time, we encountered no trouble and the journey went smoothly.

Upon entering Tianyuan City, everyone was stunned by the sight before them.

Tianyuan City was many times larger than Qingyun City, with towering buildings, countless shops, and bustling streets teeming with people. The air was thick with spiritual energy, several times stronger than that of Qingyun City.

"This is Tianyuan City?" Zheng Bowen's eyes widened. "It's magnificent!"

"Compared to Qingyun City, it's worlds apart," Xiao Tianxing exclaimed.

Su Wanqing didn't speak, but her eyes also shone with amazement.

Although she was a native of Tianyuan Domain, she had always lived in remote areas and had never been to Tianyuan City before. Today, seeing this legendary city for the first time, she was truly awestruck.

"Stop looking, let's find a place to stay first," Zheng Yi said.

He led everyone on a tour of the city and finally found a nice house.

This residence is located on a quiet street in the east of the city. It has three courtyards and more than a dozen rooms, with a large yard. The location isn't the best, but it's not remote either, and the price is reasonable.

Zheng Yi paid a deposit on the spot and bought the house.

“This will be our home from now on,” he said.

Everyone was happy and chose their own rooms to settle in.

Zheng Yi stood in the courtyard, watching the busy crowd, and a sense of satisfaction welled up in his heart.

As the days went by, Zheng Yi gradually gained a foothold in Tianyuan City.

Su Wanqing's hunting team had a daily harvest, which, although not as good as Zheng Yi's personal efforts, added up to a considerable income. Zheng Hongzhi had set up an impenetrable defensive formation for the mansion, and Liu Ruyan managed the household impeccably; everything was progressing in a positive direction.

As Miss Red Rain said, the name "Dark Night" spread wider and wider in the Tianyuan Domain.

People frequently came to visit, wanting to persuade "Dark Night" to come out of retirement, but Zheng Yi politely declined them all. He didn't want to be too high-profile right now; he needed to solidify his foundation before considering taking on any more work.

On this day, Zheng Yi was meditating in the courtyard when he suddenly heard a knock on the door.

"Who?" He opened his eyes.

"Master, someone has arrived," Zheng Bowen's voice came from outside the door. "They say they're from Cuiyu Tower, carrying a letter from Miss Hongyu."

Zheng Yi's heart stirred, and he got up and left the room.

In the courtyard, a young man dressed in blue stood there, holding a letter in his hands.

"Are you Mr. Dark Night?" the man asked respectfully.

“That’s right.” Zheng Yi nodded. “Are you from Cuiyu Tower?”

“Yes,” the man said. “I am here on Miss Hongyu’s orders to deliver a letter to Mr. Dark Night. Miss Hongyu says this letter is very important and requests that you review it personally.”

As he spoke, he handed over the letter.

Zheng Yi took the letter, opened it, and a look of surprise appeared on his face.

The letter contained only a few words, but its contents surprised him somewhat.

"To Mr. Dark Night: I have urgent business to discuss with you. Please come to the Jade Pavilion immediately. This matter is of great importance and cannot be delayed. Respectfully yours, Red Rain."

After reading the letter, Zheng Yi pondered for a moment.

Red Rain Girl's letter was very brief and didn't explain what it was about. But judging from the tone, it must have been something very important.

“Go back and tell Miss Hongyu that I will be there shortly,” Zheng Yi said to the man in blue.

"Yes," the man replied, turning and leaving.

Zheng Yi returned to his room, changed his clothes, put on the human skin mask, and then went out towards the Jade Pavilion.

Although he now uses the name "Dark Night," he still habitually wears a mask, just in case. After all, he has offended quite a few people in the Tianyuan Domain, so it's always better to be cautious.

Upon arriving at the Jade Pavilion, Zheng Yi went straight into the backyard and stood in front of Miss Hongyu's small building.

“Mr. Dark Night, Miss Red Rain is waiting for you inside,” a maid greeted him respectfully.

Zheng Yi nodded, pushed open the door, and went inside.

Hongyu was sitting by the window, holding a cup of tea, looking thoughtful. Seeing Zheng Yi enter, she quickly stood up and went to greet him.

“Mr. Dark Night, you’ve arrived,” she said. “Please have a seat.”

Zheng Yi sat down opposite her and asked bluntly, "What brings you here, young lady?"

Hongyu did not answer immediately, but instead personally brewed a cup of tea for him and handed it to him.

"Sir, please have a cup of tea first, and listen to Hongyu's story slowly," she said.

Zheng Yi took the teacup, took a sip, and waited for her to speak.

After a moment's hesitation, Miss Hongyu said, "Sir, I have something very important to tell you today."

"What's up?"

“Someone wants to see you,” said the girl named Hongyu.

"Who?" Zheng Yi raised an eyebrow.

The girl in red rain took a deep breath and then said, "The city lord of Qingyun City, Li Tiancheng."

Zheng Yi's eyes narrowed slightly.

The city lord of Qingyun City? Why would he want to see me?
"Why does the city lord want to see me?" Zheng Yi asked.

“Hongyu doesn’t know the specific reason either,” Miss Hongyu said. “The city lord sent someone to Jade Pavilion, saying he’d heard of ‘Dark Night’s’ great reputation and wanted to invite you to his residence for a chat. He said he has something important to discuss with you.”

Zheng Yi fell silent.

He was no stranger to Li Tiancheng, the city lord of Qingyun City. When he first arrived in Tianyuan Domain, he had killed people outside the city lord's mansion, including Elder Li, the mansion's retainer. Although he was wearing a mask at the time, and the people in the city lord's mansion probably wouldn't recognize him, he still didn't have a good impression of the city lord's mansion.

Moreover, he learned from Miss Hongyu and others that Li Tiancheng was not a good person. He held absolute power in Qingyun City, oppressing the people and resorting to any means for his own selfish gain. Many people dared not speak out against him, but were powerless to do anything about it.

If someone like that suddenly wants to see me, they definitely don't have good intentions.

"What are you thinking about, sir?" Miss Hongyu asked softly when she saw him silent.

“I’m wondering why the city lord wants to see me,” Zheng Yi said. “When did he find out about my existence?”

"The name 'Dark Night' has spread throughout the Tianyuan Domain, so it's not surprising that the City Lord knows about it," said Miss Hongyu. "Moreover, when you were escorting Master Zhou, you went on a killing spree outside Qingyun City, which the City Lord must have heard about."

Zheng Yi nodded, seemingly lost in thought.

"What does the master intend to do?" Miss Hongyu asked. "To go or not to go?" (End of Chapter)