316: Settle in first, we can talk later.

After listening to Li Shengyuan, the Long Qingcheng did not immediately give a clear response.

Her slender fingers tapped lightly on the armrest of the Dragon Throne twice, and a hard-to-read glint flashed in her deep eyes.

She did not directly answer Li Shengyuan's proposal for cooperation against the Demonic Cult. Instead, she smiled, a smile that softened some of her majesty and added a touch of casualness belonging to a "host" and... a hint of deeper meaning.

"The matter of the Demonic Cult is indeed like a festering bone, requiring cautious and long-term deliberation," the Long Qingcheng slowly said, her tone unhurried.

"But Young Master Li has traveled a long way and just experienced a fierce battle, why be in such a hurry? Why not stay in my Holy Dragon City for a few days, relax your mind, and take a good look at the customs and culture of my Demon Domain?"

Her gaze turned to Li Shengyuan, with an inviting air: "Although Holy Dragon City is primarily inhabited by the Yao Race, it has had frequent exchanges with the Human Race for many years, and there are many Human Race Cultivators and merchants settled within the city."

"Young Master Li, why not see how the Human Race in Holy Dragon City lives under my rule, compared to the Human Race in the Capital of Great Qian? Is their life more carefree and prosperous, or slightly inferior?"

She leaned back slightly, her posture more relaxed: "Although I am the Long Qingcheng, I know that listening to all sides leads to enlightenment."

"Young Master Li is an outstanding talent with extraordinary vision. If you have any observations, feelings, or suggestions regarding the governance of Holy Dragon City or the coexistence of the two races, please speak frankly. I am all ears."

This invitation came somewhat suddenly, but it was reasonable, even appearing quite courteous.

Li Shengyuan gazed deeply at the Long Qingcheng, as if trying to discern something from her smiling golden eyes.

After a moment, he also chuckled softly, raising his cup in a casual gesture.

"Your Majesty's generosity makes it rude to refuse. It is my honor to experience the scenery of Holy Dragon City and feel the atmosphere of the Demon Domain. As for suggestions..."

He paused slightly, his smile unchanged, "That depends on whether Your Majesty desires polite flattery or genuine humble opinions."

"Oh?" The Long Qingcheng raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued, "Naturally, the latter. I've heard enough polite words."

"Then I, Li, shall impose," Li Shengyuan replied with a smile.

For the next period, the Long Qingcheng seemed to genuinely set aside "official business."

Instead, she discussed governance insights and local customs with Li Shengyuan, even asking about the structure of the Great Qian court and policies concerning the people's livelihood.

Her questions often hit the nail on the head, showing that she was not ignorant of human society; on the contrary, she had quite a bit of research into it.

Li Shengyuan was secretly surprised. His Majesty the Long Qingcheng's understanding and interest in human society seemed to far exceed the scope of the average Yao Race.

But he showed no emotion on his face, answering calmly and sincerely while maintaining propriety. Occasionally, he would also ask questions about the internal structure of the Yao Race and territorial governance. The two found themselves chatting quite congenially.

Pei Shuyun occasionally interjected a few words. Her extensive knowledge and clear articulation also made the Long Qingcheng look at her a few more times.

Long Yun listened from the side, sometimes enlightened, sometimes pondering, feeling that her understanding of many things had broadened considerably.

The conversation lasted for about half an hour before the Long Qingcheng, seemingly still wanting to continue, stopped the topic.

"My conversation with Young Master Li today has been quite insightful for me."

She nodded slightly, then instructed Long Yun: "Yun'er, take Young Master Li and Miss Pei to settle down in the Dragon Perching Garden. It's quiet there, and the scenery is good, perfect for esteemed guests."

She then looked at Li Shengyuan and Pei Shuyun: "You two have had a tiring journey, please rest for a while. Later this evening, I will host a banquet in the palace to welcome you. I hope you will honor me with your presence."

"Thank you, Your Majesty, for your hospitality," Li Shengyuan and Pei Shuyun rose and bowed.

Leaving the magnificent and resplendent Holy Dragon Palace, and following Long Yun through the jade corridors between the palace complexes, the surrounding pressure and formality gradually receded.

Long Yun only seemed to relax after they had moved a certain distance from the Holy Dragon Palace.

She bit her lower lip, a hint of apology on her face, and looked at Li Shengyuan: "Young Master Li, Miss Pei, earlier... I'm truly sorry."

"I didn't expect His Majesty to... for the atmosphere to suddenly become like that. Regarding the matter of jointly dealing with the Demonic Cult, His Majesty didn't immediately agree, you two..."

She was a bit vexed, feeling that she had brought Li Shengyuan and the others here but failed to immediately facilitate cooperation.

Li Shengyuan, however, smiled indifferently and waved his hand, interrupting her: "Miss Long, there's no need to worry. His Majesty the Long Qingcheng has her own considerations and pace."

"Since she invited us to stay and sightsee, we'll just enjoy ourselves for a few days."

His gaze swept over the sprawling buildings of Holy Dragon City in the distance and the occasional Yao birds soaring in the sky, his tone relaxed:

"The matter of the Demonic Cult is not a problem that developed overnight, and its resolution won't be achieved in a single day."

"Rushing for success might backfire. Since we're here, experiencing the unique scenery of this Sky City is also a rare opportunity."

Pei Shuyun also said gently: "Miss Long, there's no need to blame yourself. His Majesty inviting us to stay already shows sincerity. Some matters indeed require time and opportunity."

Seeing how open-minded they both were, the gloom in Long Yun's heart slightly dissipated.

She took a deep breath, her face regaining its vibrancy, even showing a hint of youthful vivacity and anticipation.

"You're right!"

She clapped her hands, her ample bosom gently rising and falling with the motion, a bright smile blooming on her face, "Since we're going to sightsee, who in Holy Dragon City knows it better than I do?"

She straightened her tall figure, patted her chest with a touch of pride, and said to Li Shengyuan and Pei Shuyun:

"Young Master Li, Miss Pei, while you're in Holy Dragon City, just tell me where you want to go, what you want to see, what you want to eat! I'll be your guide and guarantee you won't regret this trip!"

Watching her instantly transform from a slightly nervous princess back to a cheerful and enthusiastic "tour guide," Li Shengyuan and Pei Shuyun exchanged a smile.

"Then we shall trouble Miss Long," Li Shengyuan said with a chuckle.

"Just call me Long Yun!"

Long Yun smiled brightly, leading the two towards the quiet and elegant Dragon Perching Garden.

In her mind, she was already planning where to take them first.

Long Yun didn't overthink whether the Long Qingcheng had a deeper meaning.

Anyway, she knew she couldn't figure anything out, and thinking too much would only make her seem foolish...