But!
She truly was different from Ye Yuqing. Deep in her bones, her sense of rejection toward Li Tianming was especially severe. Clearly, she was quite dissatisfied with the Anyang King's branch forcibly binding Li Tianming to the entire An Lineage.
From her, Li Tianming also saw a reality: within the An Lineage, he was still a fire of division.
Fortunately, Ye Yuqing was able to smooth things over.
Although the guests from both sides did not get along, he still moved with ease between them, bringing Li Tianming and An Ruyan's group into the inner palace of Rainheart Island.
The palace was already gathered with far too many young men and women of wealth, status, and outstanding talent. Those able to enter the Ye Heavenly Emperor Residence needed no introduction regarding their identities. At the very least, their ancestors probably had to have served as officials or soldiers for nine generations to possess such qualifications.
"The birthday star is back."
"Who did he pick up?"
Everyone looked over in unison.
"So it was An Ruyan..."
"An Ruyan is impressive. After winning this challenge, her ranking has already surpassed Ye Yuqing's."
"No wonder he personally went out to receive her!"
The attention of several hundred people was all focused on An Ruyan. For a moment, they actually overlooked Li Tianming behind her.
Li Tianming temporarily overlooked them as well.
Ye Yuqing had brought Ye Yushu along precisely because he feared Li Tianming would be neglected when there were too many people. He had specially arranged for her to accompany this great hero of Flyingstar Fort.
"Brother Tianming, come sit over here."
"This is delicious! Spirit Emperor Star Mushroom—apparently it takes a hundred thousand years to grow. Let's swallow it in one bite!"
"Brother Tianming, drink up. This is Floating Lotus