Wanqing City had a black market, which Jiang Chi had learned about from some website. More precisely, every city in the Huayuan Federation had certain shady districts collectively known as the black market.
However, these black markets were not as demonized, gang-infested, or lawless as depicted in urban Dragon Ao Tian novels. Most shops dealt in questionable antiques, high-powered firearms and protective gear, as well as some gray-area industries.
Jiang Chi wore a white mask to conceal his face as he entered the black market.
The first thing to catch his eye was the three-meter-wide road, flanked by countless orderly shops. The shopkeepers eagerly welcomed incoming customers.
The ceiling overhead was at least four or five meters high, providing lighting and brightness for both sides of the street. The black market was likely built in an abandoned underground parking lot.
Contrary to the furtive image one might expect, this so-called black market was surprisingly lively and open. There were even vendors shouting to sell starchy sausages, which to the unknowing resembled a typical night market.
Jiang Chi bought one; the taste was pretty good.
He guessed the black market must have some official backing. Since human desires are endless and hard to suppress, there must be designated outlets for venting. Rather than letting a large group of socially unstable elements run amok, it was better to establish a dedicated base. If trouble arose, it could be promptly suppressed.
Walking quickly while taking everything in, Jiang Chi noticed the strange and rare items displayed at the shops and stalls—many he had never seen or even heard of before.
Following the location on his phone, Jiang Chi arrived in front of a store. The storefront looked exceptionally modern, predominantly deep red. The signboard bore the four characters “Human Paradise,” faintly exuding a mysterious and decadent aura.
This place specialized in “scarlet services” within the black market—in other words, a high-end adult novelty store with unique custom services.
Jiang Chi took a deep breath and stepped inside. The interior was elegantly mysterious, bathed in soft lighting that showcased an array of exquisite yet indescribable items.
A female clerk dressed revealingly smiled and softly inquired about Jiang Chi’s needs.
“Custom-made little items,” Jiang Chi said.
She immediately understood his meaning and led him to the back room.
This room was decorated with a strong ancient flair—or more accurately, an adult-themed ancient style. Besides crafting small custom items, they made all kinds of adult clothing and toys. Whatever style one could imagine, this place probably had it.
Jiang Chi walked down a red carpeted corridor flanked by beaded curtains, gauzy drapes, and incense burners. A faint fragrance lingered in the air.
The clerk seated him at a table, where a well-dressed middle-aged man was waiting. Upon Jiang Chi sitting down, the man politely poured him a cup of tea.
Jiang Chi didn’t take the tea but instead placed his satchel on the table. As soon as it landed, the table vibrated slightly, indicating considerable weight.
He opened the satchel, and bright red banknotes spilled out, scattering across the table—over thirty bundles.
Seeing this, the middle-aged man smiled even wider: “Dear customer, may I ask what kind of custom service you require?”
“Custom set of handcuffs and leg shackles with gold chains. No photo of the other party will be provided. As for body measurements: height 163 cm, weight 49 kg, bust 87.62 cm, waist 61.85 cm, hips 88.91 cm.”
After a pause, he added, “Also, a collar—pink, with gardenia flower patterns. It needs electric shock and automatic positioning functions. When necessary, the current should increase enough to stun the wearer unconscious.”
Upon hearing these requirements, the man’s smile deepened like a blooming old chrysanthemum.
Jiang Chi finished speaking, paid the deposit, signed the contract, and was about to leave with his satchel.
“Dear customer, please wait a moment,” the middle-aged man suddenly called out from behind.
Jiang Chi stopped and turned. The slightly plump man hurried over, beaming, and handed him a small bag of granular food.
At first glance, the contents looked plump, somewhat resembling everyday cat food.
“This is our latest product, code-named B-1314, though…” The man’s face immediately flashed a meaningful, slightly suggestive smile, “we prefer to call it ‘cat food.’”
“As for its effects, it can improve flexibility, sensitivity, and pleasure levels, enhancing the quality of life between couples. It also makes ‘disobedient little kittens’ obedient and compliant.”
“You know, sometimes a rebellious ‘little kitten’ may be locked in a cat cage, but her heart remains outside. This will bring your cat’s heart back into your hands.”
After finishing, the man winked at Jiang Chi with a ‘you understand me’ expression.
Jiang Chi: …..
He seemed to understand what this so-called ‘cat food’ granulated product actually was.
“No, thank you.”
He pushed the offered bag away and turned to leave.
Just as Jiang Chi stepped out the door, a short figure brushed past him, wearing a cat mask and dressed in blue and white clothing. Jiang Chi glanced back and found the figure somewhat familiar.
The short figure ran into the store and approached the middle-aged man, speaking in a soft boyish voice:
“Uncle Zhong, the teacher sent me to collect the commission, meow~”
…….
“Achoo! Achoo!”
Inside the dorm room, several sneezes rang out in quick succession, and Ji Yuennian almost dropped his phone trying to hold it steady.
“Old Ji, catching a cold?” Yao Shiming, who was playing a game in the same dorm, teased.
“No, not at all.”
Ji Yuennian shook his head.
Just now, for some unknown reason, a sudden chill ran through his heart, causing several sneezes. Could this be what they called a ‘whim of the heart’? Ji Yuennian mused bitterly.
“Old Ji, someone just posted in the group chat.” Luo Yikang, lying on the lower bunk scrolling through short videos, turned toward Ji Yuennian: “The whole class is having a beef hot pot buffet tonight for team building, celebrating your return from the hospital.”
“Celebrating me?”
“Of course! You’re the big name of our school now.” Luo Yikang clicked his tongue several times: “Who doesn’t know Ji Yuennian is righteous and kindhearted, willing to go to the ends of the earth for his brothers?”
“Maybe right now some senior or junior girls are spontaneously forming a fan club for you.”
Me, a big name?
Ji Yuennian beamed inwardly, momentarily forgetting to control his game character.
A man must realize his lofty ambitions; it’s a waste to have a tall stature without aspiration!
Isn’t this exactly what he had been pursuing all his life?