Reborn in a cultivation world with my Ex girlfriends-Chapter 58: A Feast, A Bet, and a Dangerous Beauty

The moment Wang Li stepped down from the dueling platform, the cheers from the crowd still ringing in his ears, Mu Qingling practically tackled him.

"That was the coolest thing I've ever seen!" she gushed, her eyes practically sparkling. "Where did you learn to fight like that? And that talisman—was that a one-time thing, or do you have more?!"

Wang Li chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. "A man has to keep some secrets, right?"

Lin Ruoyan crossed her arms, her sharp eyes studying him. "You've improved too fast. You weren't this strong when you first arrived at the sect. Who exactly are you, Wang Li?"

For a brief second, the question hung in the air.

Wang Li smiled. "Just a lucky guy who doesn't like losing."

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Lin Ruoyan narrowed her eyes but didn't push further. Instead, she turned and flicked her long ponytail over her shoulder. "Fine. But don't get arrogant. You still have a long way to go before you can challenge someone at the Golden Core stage."

Mu Qingling waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, come on, Ruoyan! Let him enjoy his victory! We should celebrate!"

"Celebrate?" Wang Li raised an eyebrow.

Mu Qingling grinned mischievously. "Yes! There's a famous hotpot restaurant in the outer city. It's owned by an ex-cultivator chef who uses spiritual ingredients. It's expensive, but it's said to be so delicious that even elders sneak out to eat there!"

Wang Li blinked. "Hotpot? You're telling me I just risked my life in a duel, and my reward is boiling meat in a pot?"

Mu Qingling grabbed his wrist. "Trust me, after one bite, you'll thank me."

Lin Ruoyan sighed. "I suppose I can come along... if only to make sure you two don't get into trouble."

And just like that, the three of them left for the city.

The Hidden Dragon Hotpot Pavilion

The restaurant was lively, filled with outer sect disciples, rogue cultivators, and even a few wealthy merchants enjoying the delicacies. The scent of spicy broth and grilled spirit beast meat filled the air, making Wang Li's stomach growl.

They settled into a private booth, and within minutes, a large cauldron of boiling red broth was placed before them, along with thinly sliced spirit beast meat, vegetables, and various sauces.

Mu Qingling eagerly grabbed her chopsticks. "This is the best part—cooking it yourself! Try it!"

Wang Li picked up a slice of Azure Serpent Beef and dunked it into the bubbling broth. Within seconds, the meat curled up and absorbed the flavors. He dipped it into a sauce and took a bite.

His eyes widened.

The rich, spicy broth mixed with the tender, flavorful meat in a way that sent waves of pleasure through his taste buds. It was like he could feel his spiritual energy strengthening just from eating.

"Damn..." he muttered. "This might actually be better than winning a duel."

Mu Qingling smirked. "Told you."

Lin Ruoyan elegantly picked up a piece of Snow Lotus Shrimp and dipped it into a milder broth. "It's good. But don't get distracted. You've made some enemies today."

Wang Li leaned back. "Let me guess. Zhao Shen's probably planning his revenge already?"

Lin Ruoyan nodded. "It's not just him. You've humiliated one of the top outer sect disciples. You'll be challenged again and again—not just by him, but by others who want to prove themselves."

Wang Li smirked. "Then I'll just keep winning."

Mu Qingling raised her cup of spirit wine. "That's the spirit!"

They clinked their cups together, but just as they were about to take a sip—

A new voice interrupted.

"My, my. What an interesting group."

The air turned heavy as a beautiful yet dangerous-looking woman sauntered into their booth.

She had long silver hair, piercing violet eyes, and a black silk dress that clung to her curves like flowing water. Around her waist was a thin sword, its hilt adorned with delicate silver runes.

Mu Qingling nearly choked on her drink. "Y-Yue Xinyao?!"

Lin Ruoyan's expression darkened. "What is she doing here?"

Wang Li raised an eyebrow. "And who is she?"

Mu Qingling whispered. "She's a core disciple, one of the top ten in the inner sect! But more importantly, she's a troublemaker."

Yue Xinyao smiled. "Now, now. That's a little rude, isn't it?" She turned to Wang Li, her gaze sharp and amused. "You're the one who beat Zhao Shen today, aren't you?"

Wang Li leaned back lazily. "And if I am?"

Yue Xinyao's smile widened. "I like you. You have guts."

Then she placed a small jade talisman on the table.

"I'm here to make things more interesting."

Wang Li looked at the talisman. "And what exactly is this?"

"A bet," Yue Xinyao purred. "If you're truly as strong as you seem, then I challenge you to a special duel. But not a boring one like today."

She leaned in closer, her breath warm against his ear. "A duel with a twist."

Wang Li smirked. "I'm listening."

Yue Xinyao grinned. "How about this? A romantic duel."

Mu Qingling coughed violently. Lin Ruoyan nearly dropped her chopsticks.

"A... what?" Wang Li blinked.

Yue Xinyao giggled. "Simple. We fight, but if I win, you have to take me on a date. If you win..." She ran a finger along her delicate sword hilt. "You get one favor from me. Anything you want."

Wang Li's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Anything?"

Yue Xinyao's smirk grew. "Anything."

Mu Qingling grabbed his arm. "Don't fall for it! She's dangerous!"

Lin Ruoyan sighed. "She's obviously just toying with you."

Wang Li, however, grinned.

"A romantic duel, huh?" He picked up the jade talisman and twirled it between his fingers. "Alright, Yue Xinyao. You're on."

Her violet eyes flashed with excitement. "Good. Tomorrow at noon. Don't disappoint me, Wang Li."

And with that, she gracefully stood up and disappeared into the bustling crowd, leaving a stunned Mu Qingling and Lin Ruoyan behind.

Mu Qingling groaned. "You're insane."

Lin Ruoyan rubbed her temples. "I give up."

Wang Li?

He just laughed.

This was turning out to be way more fun than expected.