Several days later, in an unremarkable Market District, Li Chen, in his guise as Hu Ze, made a few adjustments to his disguise and checked into a manor on the outskirts with a pretty maid, posing as a young nobleman. There he lay low in human territory.
"My king, are we heading back already? We failed to complete the Demon God Palace's mission. I'm afraid we'll be punished."
In the rear courtyard, beside a stone table, Vixen came up to Li Chen with a wine pot and spoke with a hint of worry.
Li Chen smiled faintly, unconcerned. "What is there to fear? I've already become a Demon King. Even if the Great Emperor is angry with me for botching the assignment, he won't be too harsh. Besides, Her Majesty the Demon Empress can speak on my behalf."
Hu Xi's worry turned to delight at his words. "That's true! You're nothing like you were before!"
Her alluring eyes softened as she offered Li Chen a cup of wine with her usual flattery and said sweetly, "My king... Xi'er offers you a toast!"
She, too, was riding high. Not only had the young lord she served become a Demon King, but he had abruptly seen the light, cast aside those loose hussies, and returned to favoring her alone.
In that case, returning to the Righteous Qi Continent early might well be a good thing. She was no ambitious sort intent on tempering herself, earning merit, and climbing higher. All she needed was to twine herself around a sturdy vine and cling tightly to her patron.
Li Chen laughed heartily, took the cup, and drained it in one gulp. Then he told her, "You still remember how to contact those informants, don't you? I'll stay here for the time being. Go make