September 18th, Xu hour – the most peaceful night since winter began. For the first time in decades as Grand Tutor, he felt such leisure.

“Daqing, have you ever thought…” In the past, whenever the Grand Tutor saw his precious nephew, the Imperial Scholar, he would either beat or scold him, more often shaking with anger. But tonight was unusual – he looked at his nephew with eyes full of tenderness and deep care.

“If uncle were gone, what would you do?”

The hotpot was steaming hot as Jiang Daqing ate with slurping sounds. He put down his ivory chopsticks and looked blankly at his uncle, saying the phrase he’d uttered most often since childhood: “Uncle, I don’t know.”

“Mm… that’s true enough.” Jiang Chong wasn’t surprised – if his nephew had suddenly become enlightened and begun speaking eloquently, that would have shocked him. Seeing Jiang Daqing pick up a piece of white meat, dip it in sauce, and swallow it whole, Jiang Chong sighed slightly. He turned to Luo Moshi: “What does National Teacher Luo Moshi think? If this nephew of mine had no uncle in the future, what could he do?”

Jiang Daqing was naturally scattered and lazy, born fat and simple-minded, though not really a bad person – just spoiled from years of pampering, inevitably somewhat like “why not eat meat porridge?” Luo Moshi sighed and said quietly: “Brother Daqing can’t succeed at studies or martial arts, but he has skillful hands – he should be able to learn crafts easily. If he were to learn tailoring or carpentry, it wouldn’t be too late.”

Jiang Chong sighed: “True. I’m also to blame for spoiling him.” He quietly lifted his wine cup, drained it in one gulp, and looked at the beloved generals around the round table – An Daojing, Luo Moshi, Nine Nether Daoist… all his trusted confidants were present.

Jiang Chong had wine poured for all his beloved generals and continued: “My elder brother died young, leaving behind this posthumous son. For thirty years, I’ve devoted myself to caring for him, not daring to fail…” He looked at his foolish nephew tenderly: “Daqing, even golden mountains and silver mountains will be consumed someday. Your nature is merely simple foolishness, not bad. In the future, when you’ve learned a skill, you must also understand contentment, understand?”

Tonight the starlight flickered, and uncle’s words and actions were somewhat strange. Jiang Daqing stammered, not knowing what to say. Beside him, Nine Nether Daoist was also confused: “My lord, what… what exactly are you trying to do?” Before he finished speaking, he saw Jiang Chong look over with a kind expression. He tasted his wine lightly and asked back: “Daoist, what about you? What are your plans for the future?”

Nine Nether Daoist exclaimed in surprise. Usually, before his mouth even opened to speak, he would be beaten and scolded, but today the Grand Tutor had reversed his usual behavior and was actually asking him questions. Nine Nether Daoist was overjoyed and quickly looked toward Luo Moshi, only to see this bald demon monk turn his head away with tears in his eyes. Nine Nether Daoist exclaimed again and glanced at An Daojing, only to see this chubby Embroidered Uniform Guard commander looking down at the ground with his flesh trembling continuously, as if crying.

Nine Nether Daoist thought frantically: “What are they doing? Crying from eating hotpot? Too spicy?” He slapped his thigh and suddenly realized: “I understand! I understand! They see the Grand Tutor favoring me, and they’re all jealous beyond measure, that’s why they’re crying!” He laughed heartily and said loudly: “Reporting to the Grand Tutor! This humble one’s future plan has only one goal – to follow you for life, no matter heaven or earth, to the ends of the world, through mountains of knives or seas of oil, sesame seeds or green beans, this humble one will stay tightly by your side, never leaving for a moment!”

Jiang Chong was surprised and delighted: “You really think this way?” Nine Nether Daoist laughed loudly: “My lord, don’t doubt – this humble one will go through fire and water without hesitation!” Jiang Chong smiled and nodded, not asking more. He glanced at An Daojing and said faintly: “What about you? What are your future plans?”

An Daojing, contrary to his usual clownish appearance, placed both hands on his knees and said quietly: “This official has saved quite a bit of silver over the years. Even without official position in the future, I can still manage to get by.”

Jiang Chong sighed: “Everyone here is family – at this moment, you needn’t hide from me. Will you serve a new master in the future?”

An Daojing suddenly smiled lightly, but that smile was somewhat bitter. He sighed: “My lord overestimates me. Among all the Jiang faction generals, my reputation is the worst. Even if I humble myself and seek favor in the future, they may not necessarily want me.”

Hearing their exchange, Nine Nether Daoist stared with his mouth agape, not understanding a single word. Jiang Chong patted An Daojing’s shoulder comfortingly, then turned to Luo Moshi with a smile: “National Teacher has always been a pillar of talent. With your abilities, even without me, you’ll still hold high position in the future – this I’m very assured of.”

Hearing these words, Luo Moshi suddenly covered his face with both hands, tears streaming down, unable to control himself for a long time. Jiang Chong sighed quietly and added: “National Teacher, remembering our years of shared wealth and honor, when the Jiang family’s old and young fall into your hands in the future, please show mercy and treat my family kindly.”

Luo Moshi turned his head away, tears streaming down his face, but he nodded. Nine Nether Daoist, hearing the demon monk’s midnight crying, was naturally dumbstruck. This Luo Moshi had feigned death in the western frontier and defected to the Central Plains – which day hadn’t he worn a treasured expression? Who would have expected this demon monk to suddenly burst into tears while eating peacefully with everyone? Nine Nether Daoist was terrified and thought: “Heaven! Is the food poisoned?” He immediately took out a silver needle from his bosom and secretly tested the hotpot, fearing some accident.

While examining the needle’s color, he heard Jiang Chong sigh: “What about Hu Mei’er?” An Daojing cupped his hands: “Hundred Flower Fairy is in Tianshui, still trying to seize that jade seal for my lord.” Jiang Chong smiled bitterly: “Going deep alone is truly difficult for her.” He covered his face with both hands and sighed deeply: “Commander An, National Teacher Luo, you should depart.”

An Daojing exclaimed quietly: “So soon?” Jiang Chong narrowed his eyes: “Leave quickly – when the troops enter the city, you may not be able to escape.”

The powerful minister turned his back to everyone and waved his hand. An Daojing and Luo Moshi rose tearfully, bowed respectfully to Jiang Chong, then pulled Jiang Daqing and said quietly: “Young Master Daqing, it’s time to go.” Jiang Daqing was still eating hotpot and said with his mouth full: “Where are we going?” An Daojing, tears rolling down, said quietly: “To embrace beautiful women.” Jiang Daqing was surprised and delighted: “I’m coming right away – wait for me, let me finish this piece of meat…” Chattering while holding his soup bowl, he followed An Daojing away.

Luo Moshi slowly walked toward the door, looking back at Jiang Chong one last time and saying quietly: “My lord, rest assured – even if this old monk loses his life, I will safely escort Young Master Daqing to the western frontier and never let the Jiang family line be severed.” Jiang Chong showed neither joy nor anger, neither crying nor laughing – he only crossed his arms and stared at the ink landscape on the screen wall. Luo Moshi wiped his tears, bowed to him with joined palms, then immediately turned and left.

After a long while, Jiang Daqing’s distant laughter gradually faded, replaced by the heavy sound of military boots on the ground. Jiang Chong suddenly stood and faced the door, seeing a military officer enter the hall. This person wore a short sword at his waist, a crossbow on his left shoulder, a musket on his right shoulder, carried a long spear, and had an arrow quiver strapped to his leg – fully armed. The cloud guards beside him didn’t stop him but bowed respectfully instead.

That Nine Nether Daoist had earlier tested for poison with his silver needle, finding the hotpot completely non-toxic, and was still eating happily. Seeing the officer approach, he quickly said: “Brother, have you eaten?” The officer ignored him and walked to the round table, cupping his hands: “Everyone has arrived.” Jiang Chong smiled slightly: “How many came in total?” The officer replied sternly: “Reporting to the Grand Tutor – two thousand troops in total.”

Though few in number, it was sufficient. Jiang Chong had long known the situation would be thus and showed no surprise. He slowly stood and said softly: “Someone bring me my musket.” A subordinate brought a brocade box containing a musket, which Jiang Chong tucked into his bosom. He smiled at Nine Nether Daoist: “Daoist, now I have no one by my side, so you are my first beloved general. If the Daoist wishes to follow me, come now.”

Hearing his superior’s summons, Nine Nether Daoist was overjoyed and quickly asked: “My lord! Where exactly are you going?” Jiang Chong stretched lazily and smiled: “We’re going to Ganqing Gate!” He strode toward the door himself. Several loyal guards followed the Grand Tutor’s steps closely, all leaving through the main entrance together.

Jiang Chong’s laughter came from the distance. Nine Nether Daoist was even more delighted, thinking that Ganqing Gate was the emperor’s sleeping palace – the Grand Tutor’s visit there must be for state consultations. Such fine assignments had previously been monopolized by Luo Moshi and An Daojing, but who would have expected that with changing times, it would be his turn to shine? Nine Nether Daoist grew happier as he thought, hurrying to catch up with Jiang Chong’s steps. Nine Nether Daoist rubbed his hands obsequiously, smiling at the Grand Tutor beside him, seeing him looking up motionlessly as if gazing at the night sky. Nine Nether Daoist smiled: “My lord, are you observing the stars?”

Jiang Chong didn’t reply, only smiling slightly. In September with heavy frost at the autumn-winter transition, the starlight overhead continued winking at him as it had for the past thirty years, brilliant and dazzling as if eternal.

The first giant star rose, then fell – that was Qin Baxian. The second comet streaked across the sky, then vanished without a trace – that was Liu Jing. Then came the falling general’s star – that was Liu Angtian. For thirty years, one star after another had risen before him and fallen beneath his hand. The invincible Grand Tutor Jiang had finally defeated all strong enemies and extinguished all the stars. Laughably and sadly, this endless dark three-thousand-li night sky had become an empty stage waiting for the last star to fall to earth.

All contemporary powerful ministers had taken their final bow – only the last protagonist remained on stage. This man surnamed Jiang, named Chong, would also leave the stage.

Liu Angtian was wrong, wrong from the very beginning. The final struggle of the Jingtai Dynasty’s key players was fundamentally not Yang Xingguang, nor was it he, Jiang Chong – this struggle fundamentally didn’t belong to their generation. Consecutive miscalculations had already caused Liu Angtian’s downfall and death, and left him with no chance of recovery. The enemy’s darkness and terror exceeded every treacherous minister, capable minister, court favorite, and powerful minister of this generation. In the dark night sky, that enormous general’s star was about to rise, unstoppable.

The curtain call moment had arrived. Jiang Chong understood in his heart that as the chief architect of the Jingtai Dynasty, he would never flee nor beg for mercy.

The musket in his bosom was already prepared. The moment the new dynasty was born, he would be the first person under heaven to congratulate the new emperor. When the gun fired with a firecracker-like celebratory sound, beautiful blood flowers from his temple would flow out drop by drop. Then he would calmly and composedly wave farewell to all the people under heaven with a smile.

To live such a life – exhilarating! Jiang Chong patted Nine Nether Daoist’s shoulder and couldn’t help laughing heartily.

Splash splash… raindrops fell one by one. In the sound of heavy rain, September 18th passed. At this moment, a new day had arrived.

September 19th, Zi hour – the western frontier received this year’s last rainfall… next would come snow.

Cold rainwater struck his cheeks as Lu Yun awakened gasping. He opened his eyes to see water vapor overhead, dark clouds covering the moon, the Milky Way obscured, leaving only countless raindrops falling toward him. Lu Yun’s forehead burned with pain as he remembered the baby and hurriedly sat up, crying hoarsely: “Give him back! Give him back! Don’t touch him! Don’t!”

During his anguished cries, a gentle sigh came from behind. Lu Yun quickly turned to see a tall elderly man looking at him intently, holding a child in his arms. The man had black hair and extremely clear eyes – it was “Nine Provinces Sword King” Fang Zijing.

Lu Yun had previously been struck by Qin Zhonghai’s blade, so seeing Fang Zijing naturally made him afraid. He shrank back and shouted: “Give him back! Give the child back to me!” Fang Zijing smiled slightly and handed the baby over. Lu Yun, somewhat mentally unclear, held the child and suddenly realized he was in the wilderness with heavy rain pouring down, water vapor all around, unconsciously shivering. Lu Yun looked around and saw Nucang in the distance had become a dark, indistinguishable giant looking down at him.

Lu Yun was completely confused and gasped: “Where… where is this?”

Fang Zijing removed his cloak and draped it over Lu Yun’s shoulders, saying: “Child, you’ve already left Nucang and passed through the court’s ten thousand troops – you’ve returned to the mortal world.” Lu Yun stared blankly: “The mortal world?” Fang Zijing gently touched his cheek and nodded lightly but didn’t reply.

Lu Yun looked down at the baby and saw his small face was pale, his breathing very rapid, and the wound on his forehead, soaked with rainwater, had developed a high fever. Lu Yun was alarmed and anxious. He looked at Fang Zijing with pleading eyes, tears in his eyes: “Senior! Please save this child.”

Fang Zijing looked at Lu Yun and said faintly: “Why ask me? Can’t you save him yourself?”

Lu Yun’s body shook as he mumbled: “I… I save him…”

Fang Zijing picked up “Yunmengze” and placed it in Lu Yun’s hands, saying softly: “Child, I can only accompany you this far. The remaining path you must walk alone.” He slowly stood, and before leaving, looked back one last time, his voice becoming very gentle as he instructed: “The final journey may be bitter, may be lonely, but it’s your own choice – you must walk it alone to the end…”

Fang Zijing was gone.

Lu Yun’s tears rolled down his cheeks as he looked at Yunmengze in his hands, his shoulders trembling slightly.

Only he remained in the wilderness, along with the baby burning with fever.

Lu Yun cried out to heaven. He held the child, picked up his bundle, and began the final journey of his life.

“Farewell, child.” The soon-to-retire Fang Zijing, hidden in the grove, watched the lonely traveler in the wasteland and softly bid him farewell.

Once there was a person who belonged neither to the court nor to Nucang. He walked alone between heaven and earth’s black and white – he was the final holy light…

Child… you must walk the path you’ve chosen to completion before you can find your own way…

Lu Yun held the baby and trudged forward hunchbacked. Before him, water vapor was misty, and in the wilderness he couldn’t distinguish east from west, north from south. His heart was very panicked and afraid, not knowing where to go. When he joined Nucang, he only wanted to hand the child to others so he could be free and light, able to return to the capital to be with his beloved forever. Now walking alone in the wilderness, not only had his expectations fallen through, but many, many things in his heart had also been shattered…

Tears fell along with the rainwater, his mind spinning with memories of the past. Years ago when Qin Zhonghai visited him at night, the two had howled to heaven together at Rabbit Mountain, becoming sworn brothers unto death. Later during the western frontier campaign and the capital chaos, they had experienced so many stories together. Now these bonds of righteousness and friendship had become an unforgettable mark permanently etched on his forehead.

Lu Yun wept as he looked at the child in his arms, suddenly realizing that while he was crying, the child wasn’t – he was dying.

His small face was purple, and the high fever and blade wound had made him seriously ill. Without treatment, this child certainly wouldn’t survive the night.

Lu Yun awakened, and the misty scenery before him all became clear. What struck his body was called rainwater, what he stepped on was called mud, and the child in his arms needed medicine. In this cold, vast mortal world, only two kinds of people fell to the ground – beggars and the weak. At this moment he had no choice but to face heaven, earth, and all things with this flesh body.

Strapping the long sword back to his waist, with his eight-foot-tall robust frame he could still shelter this child. Lu Yun tucked the baby inside his clothing to warm him with his own body heat, then immediately strode powerfully south.

Tianshui City had many medicine shops – that was his first stop.

The shop sign in front read “Zhirong Ginseng Shop” in these common characters. The medicine shop in the heavy rain looked very cold and deserted with few people inside. Lu Yun hid at the street corner, concealed behind vendor carts and sundries, stealing glances at the ginseng shop ten zhang away. Inside were wound medicines that could save the baby’s life, as well as nourishing ginseng and deer antler. His heart held no grand aspirations, only one small wish – to obtain medicine for the child.

Lu Yun took out the silver notes from his bundle and couldn’t help sighing. These silver notes bore the great seal of Changzhou Prefecture – once sent to a money shop for exchange, his identity might be exposed. What to do… besides silver notes he had no loose silver, and though this “Yunmengze” sword had an ancient, crude shape, how would common people know its great value? Beg for alms? But one dose of cold medicine was worth half a tael of silver – how could he gather enough in such a short time?

Across the street was a wine house with loud voices and a full house of guests toasting each other – there were many wealthy people there, perhaps also many kind-hearted ones. Lu Yun gritted his teeth and used lightness skills to sneak over, seeing several men and women by the window engaged in animated conversation – apparently a married couple with a pair of young men and women. Lu Yun, soaked with rain, crouched under the window and stole glances into the shop. He grabbed a stone from his feet and threw it toward the shop’s bowl cabinet, naturally making a crash and breaking dishes. The four customers at the window table were startled and all looked toward the source of the sound. Lu Yun saw his chance and, quick as lightning, delivered the baby and placed him on the table – rising, delivering, crouching, lying flat all completed in an instant. He rolled to another window and lay low, eavesdropping on the conversation.

“Eh! What’s this? Where did it come from?” A childish voice asked. A young woman explained: “This is a child!” The four at the table looked at each other in bewilderment, all wondering how this child had suddenly appeared. The couple called together: “Waiter, waiter! Come here!” Footsteps of the waiter sounded as the couple said in unison: “Whose child is this? Why is he here?”

The waiter’s voice was very puzzled, one could imagine the confusion on his face. He said: “I don’t know either – how strange.” “Take him away, take him away – what’s this about?” Footsteps sounded again, and the four at that table resumed talking as if nothing had happened. Lu Yun pressed his lips together, his heart sinking, knowing the child hadn’t been taken in. Suddenly from the distance came the shopkeeper’s alarmed cry: “What? What? A sick little ghost like this and you bring him to the counter? Want bad luck? Go! Go!”

The waiter’s footsteps sounded again, coming to the shop entrance. The baby was placed in a wooden box and set on the ground, his small body cushioned with the waiter’s thin outer garment. That man’s helpless expression reminded Lu Yun of himself at Kelaixuan Inn. The top scholar lowered his head and wept, hiding in the distance and stealing glances at the lonely, dying son of the Grand Commander.

Passersby walked by one after another, occasionally someone would stop to examine him. Seeing the child’s tightly closed eyes and purplish complexion, they would cry out in alarm and quickly leave. The scholar’s heart was cut like a knife – the medicine shop was clearly next door, but he couldn’t save the baby. He kept vigil foolishly and prayed silently, hoping some kind person would take the child to see a doctor.

Finally, among the multitude came one person – a beggar. He crouched beside the child, giggling, looked left and right, licked his tongue, as if about to pick him up.

Great world! Lu Yun stood up trembling with terror and horror, immediately rushing over to snatch the child away first. The beggar was startled and shouted: “What are you doing? I saw this piece of fat meat first!” Lu Yun was angry – he raised his foot and kicked the wooden box to splinters, kicked the beggar rolling away, then strode directly toward the medicine shop.

Bang! The great doors of the medicine shop swung open on both sides as a short-bearded man holding a baby stood quietly before the shopkeeper.

“My son is dying – I beg the shopkeeper to bestow medicine.” Lu Yun took a deep breath and said this.

The shopkeeper looked at his short beard, then at the baby in his arms, but didn’t shout loudly, only cupping his hands: “Zhirong Ginseng Shop has been open for thirty years with hundreds of medicinal materials available. What does the customer want?”

Lu Yun saw his attitude was quite amiable and hope secretly arose in his heart. He quickly bowed: “The baby can’t take pills or wine tablets. If you have external paste remedies, please give some. If you have internal liquid medicine, please give some more.”

The eight forms of medicine were: decoction, pill, powder, paste, elixir, wine, liquid, and tablet. Hearing his precise terminology, the shopkeeper made a sound of acknowledgment and nodded: “The customer is indeed an expert, but the ginseng shop only sells raw medicines, no prepared tablets.”

Lu Yun’s manner was calm as he said softly: “No matter – having medicine is good. Please shopkeeper give me three taels of red ochre, two taels of peony, two taels of Chinese yam, plus some rock sugar, mulberries, dried citrus peel, and prepare polygonatum, mugwort leaves, lycium bark, rehmannia, bezoar – one qian each. Also prepare half a bucket of goat milk for me.”

Lu Yun listed seven or eight medicine names in succession, including sovereign, minister, assistant, and envoy medicines for both internal and external use – truly comprehensive. Hearing him speak so expertly, the shopkeeper was somewhat startled: “You know how to use all these medicines?”

Lu Yun said: “Red ochre, polygonatum, and rehmannia – these three items are most effective for stopping bleeding and strengthening the heart. Please trouble yourself to select red ochre in its natural clay form, not powdered, and polygonatum should be thick and large.” The shopkeeper laughed dryly several times: “Truly an expert.” He tapped the black wooden abacus on the table and smiled: “Fifteen taels of silver total.”

Hearing him ask for money, Lu Yun only showed bitter eyes without speaking. The shopkeeper coughed and said again: “Customer, fifteen taels of silver total.” Lu Yun turned his head away and stroked the child’s forehead, saying quietly: “I am a court official who happened to lose my purse – please let me have credit just this once.”

The shopkeeper shook his head: “Sorry. Times are unsettled – we can’t give credit. How about this – if you’re short of funds, we won’t profit from this transaction. The medicine materials cost ten and a half taels – I’ll lose money and charge you ten taels.” He said no more and called the assistant. The two busied themselves, one grabbing medicines from the cabinet, one going to the back courtyard to milk goats. The shopkeeper smiled: “The goat milk is a gift – no charge to the customer.”

Hearing him speak so politely, Lu Yun instead hesitated. He had already resolved to rob them shortly, but seeing the shopkeeper was courteous and proper, not a snobbish person, he was instead stuck. Lu Yun pondered for a long time and thought: “People come in all types – not everyone is callous. Why must I be suspicious of everything?” He took a deep breath and, instead of acting fierce, took out a silver note from his bosom and handed it over: “Please trouble the shopkeeper to exchange this for silver.”

Ministry promissory notes were worth their weight in gold. What Lu Yun held was definitely not ordinary flying silver but an official promissory note from the Ministry of Revenue – monthly salary for the Changzhou Prefect. The shopkeeper exclaimed and took the silver note to examine it carefully. The note was for one hundred taels, stamped with the great seal of the Ministry of Revenue. The bearer was learned and cultured with extraordinary bearing – indeed a court official with rank.

Lu Yun said faintly: “Shopkeeper, I’ll exchange one hundred taels with you for thirty taels. How about it?” Such a windfall falling from heaven naturally left the shopkeeper dumbstruck. He said anxiously: “Young master, the money shop isn’t far – just around the eastern corner. Why don’t you exchange it yourself?” Lu Yun lowered his head and said softly: “It’s inconvenient for me to go there.” The shopkeeper’s heart jumped and he became alert: “Inconvenient? What do you mean?” Lu Yun held the baby and said faintly: “Please don’t ask too many questions. If you’re willing to exchange silver, I’ll be most grateful.”

Hearing the assistant’s repeated urging, the shopkeeper wasn’t quick to agree but looked Lu Yun up and down repeatedly, pondering deeply. Lu Yun wasn’t afraid of his scrutiny and simply closed his eyes without speaking. After a while, the shopkeeper coughed: “How about this – we can’t tell if the note is real or fake. Since you find it inconvenient to exchange it personally, let me go for you. Real gold fears no fire – if the note is genuine, I won’t swallow a single tael and will calculate the full price for you. But if it’s fake, hehe, don’t blame me for throwing you out.” This person was upright and fair with no thought of taking advantage of others’ difficulties – truly rare to see. Lu Yun was overjoyed and couldn’t help feeling grateful. Seeing the shopkeeper hurry out from behind the counter and brush past him, Lu Yun grabbed him: “Wait.”

The shopkeeper’s expression changed: “What other instructions does the customer have?” Lu Yun smiled: “Nothing – I just wanted to thank you.” The shopkeeper coughed several times but said nothing more as he hurried out the door.

Lu Yun received the medicine package from the assistant and had him bring a bucket of goat milk. He took the bezoar to taste – it was bitter with sweetness, certainly top quality. Bezoar came from ox gallbladder stones, specifically used to strengthen the heart, calm the spirit, and detoxify with remarkable effects. He first put it in his mouth to chew, then fed it to the baby. Seeing the baby had lost much blood with deficient qi and blood, bezoar was naturally the right medicine.

Medicine is divided into “sovereign, minister, assistant, envoy” – the goat milk was mild and served as assistant and envoy. Lu Yun saw the hall had complete pots and utensils, so he took a ladle to draw water, lit a fire to boil water. He first scalded the polygonatum, then boiled the wound medicine into broth, mixing it into the goat milk for the baby to drink.

When the bustle was finished, Lu Yun found a chair to sit calmly and at ease, applying raw medicine to the wound on his forehead. He held the baby on his lap and looked carefully – the child was still sleeping peacefully with rosy cheeks, very serene, but like himself, a mark remained right in the center of his brow.

Having reached this point in life, there was no need to think about anything more. Lu Yun brought over the brazier and, holding the child, the two quietly warmed themselves and dried their clothes, waiting for the hot water in the pot to boil. With his body warm and cozy, his eyelids gradually grew heavy as he was about to fall asleep.

Suddenly he heard the clatter of footsteps and several people shouting hoarsely: “Where is he? Where is he?” Lu Yun startled awake to hear the shopkeeper’s voice from outside the door: “The person is inside – you go look quickly.” Lu Yun’s mouth gaped wide – he never expected that the shopkeeper would go inform the authorities. His face trembled as he looked back toward the assistant, who had already fled without a trace, leaving only himself alone in the vast hall.

“It’s him! The silver note is his!” The figures at the shop entrance jumped and shouted as dozens of constables wielding weapons surged forward. The constables roared: “State your name! Why do you have the Changzhou Prefect’s silver note?”

The constables at the entrance shouted accusations – this scene was all too familiar. From being a failed examination fugitive to becoming the realm’s top scholar, the only thing unchanged was still that cold world and his own desolate gaze. Lu Yun’s eyes filled with tears as he held the baby with his left hand, lowered his head toward the boiling water, and called out in a voice like weeping: “The mortal world… the mortal world…”

The constables looked at each other in confusion, all feeling puzzled. They saw the short-bearded man before them moving his lips lightly, mumbling to himself, treating the hundred or so people at the entrance as if they didn’t exist. He held a child with one hand while stirring medicine and boiling water with a ladle in the other.

One constable snorted and shouted: “We’re asking you a question! Didn’t you hear?” Losing patience, he immediately reached out to grab him, when suddenly a furious roar rang out in the great hall.

“The medicine isn’t ready yet!”

Crack! Yunmengze struck out with sword and sheath together, making a crisp sound. The constable screamed as his hand bone was broken, rolling to the ground on the spot.

Lu Yun’s gaze was fierce and bloodshot. After a moment, he lowered the long sword in his right hand, his expression becoming gentle. He took the soup bowl, poured half a bowl of goat milk, then stirred the medicine into the bowl with a spoon, mixing quietly. He held the baby and coaxed softly:

“Good boy, let’s take our medicine.”

The lonely traveler of a hundred years held the soup spoon, gently stirring. His gaze was vacant, all his movements slow and deliberate – he showed no intention to flee, no panicked expression, as if he’d lost his mind, leaving the constables dumbfounded. After a while, when the medicine soup had cooled slightly, the traveler finally scooped up a spoonful, brought it to his lips to blow on it, then lowered his head to feed the baby, completely ignoring everyone around him.

“What are you still looking at? Arrest him quickly!”

Suddenly several constables rushed forward, reaching out to grab Lu Yun. Lu Yun said nothing and casually drew “Yunmengze” – with a swish, brilliant light flashed past. A row of ceramic jars and medicine pots in the shop shattered, and the aftershock even toppled a brick wall beside him, revealing the great hall of the neighboring restaurant, frightening all the constables to roll and fall to the ground. The shopkeeper was both shocked and afraid, crying out in distress:

“It’s over! My shop!”

The lonely figure in the hall slowly stood up. His gaze was dim as he looked down desolately, holding the baby while gripping the long sword tightly. The constables panicked and gradually retreated. Dozens of customers next door stared in amazement at the short-bearded man in the medicine shop. In their shock and fear, none of the constables dared to advance with weapons again.

Seeing no one disturbing his medicine feeding, Lu Yun put the long sword back on the table and silently took up the spoon in his hand, making an “ah” sound as he finally fed the baby a spoonful. The child gulped down the medicine soup – the bitter taste was masked by goat milk and rock sugar, entering the mouth sweet and fragrant. The baby ate happily, and though feverish and ill, his little mouth opened again.

Lu Yun was very pleased and scooped up another spoonful, about to feed more when footsteps sounded again at the entrance. This time the constables had all retreated – the newcomer’s footsteps were slow and heavy, definitely a martial artist. Three men in black fitted clothing walked over, the middle one holding a silver note and asking coldly: “Are you Prefect Lu himself?”

Lu Yun didn’t reply, only silently blowing on the hot soup in the spoon and feeding the baby another spoonful. With a snort, the other party struck first – a weapon broke through the air, the attack urgent – it was a red-tasseled spear. Lu Yun’s eyes turned red, angry lines appearing clearly on his nose bridge as he immediately drew his sword and countered with one move.

A muffled grunt sounded as the opponent’s red-tasseled spear was actually cut in two, the spear tip breaking off and bouncing back to pierce the man’s wrist, immediately causing blood to flow freely. Lu Yun put down his long sword and again went to feed the baby, not even standing up from his position.

In the silent great hall, Lu Yun’s martial arts display intimidated the situation. The injured man in black retreated while the remaining two each held steel sabers, advancing silently with raised blades. This time they attacked from left and right in coordination. With loud shouts erupting, three weapons clashed – two sabers against a lone sword, clanging chaotically as the two sabers became four, then were cut down by the precious sword. One man in black fell and rolled away while another retreated hastily with blood flowing from his shoulder. Lu Yun swayed slightly, glanced at everyone sideways, gently kissed the baby’s cheek, then took out bezoar to chew and once again fed it into the child’s small mouth, his gaze extremely gentle without any killing intent.

Panicked retreat sounds arose as heavy footsteps approached. Standing in the medicine shop was a nine-foot-tall giant shaped like an elephant, with two men in black cowering behind him – one tall and thin who was Gao Tiancheng, one short who was Gao Tianye. The iron tower in the center was undoubtedly Sa Mau.

Gao Tianye said coldly: “Lu Yun, the jade seal isn’t on Nucang Mountain – is it on you?” Lu Yun knew his end was near and pleaded quietly: “The jade seal is yours – please spare this baby.”

Gao Tiancheng looked toward his third brother for direction. That “Divine Pellet” spoke in an icy tone, shaking his head: “Lord Lu, don’t make things difficult for us. How about we make a deal – please hand over both the baby and the jade seal, and we can cover up today’s events for you. We can still be colleagues at court in the future – how about it?”

Seeing Lu Yun neither nod nor shake his head, Gao Tiancheng, who held considerable respect for Lu Yun, also came to persuade: “Scholar, His Majesty has issued an edict – who can disobey? Why do you suffer so? While the matter hasn’t spread, surrender early.”

Lu Yun hung his head silently. Suddenly he roared loudly, holding the baby with his left hand as he lunged forward with sword and person together, charging directly at Sa Mau. This move “Donkey Roll” wasn’t swordsmanship but came from the “Peerless Continuous Fist” taught by Lu Guzhan, specifically attacking the opponent’s lower body.

With a bang, Sa Mau kicked out – what martial arts did this peerless master possess? The force penetrated Lu Yun’s body, sending him flying to crash heavily into the counter. Medicine jars fell and smashed onto his body and head as Lu Yun collapsed to the ground, barely managing to protect the baby.

Pottery shards scattered everywhere – pots, bowls, medicine packages, the jade seal bundle rolled all over the ground as Lu Yun crawled and writhed, still struggling incessantly. Gao Tiancheng, young and hot-blooded, saw his miserable state and immediately showed reluctance, persuading: “Lord Lu, even Nucang Mountain has surrendered – why do you suffer so?”

Lu Yun spat fresh blood, collapsed on the ground with eyes still wide open. Sa Mau roared like a tiger and heavily stepped on his back, forcing Lu Yun to spit blood again. Gao Tianye and Gao Tiancheng bent down in the pottery pile, searching to find the jade seal.

With a slap, a book fell in front of the prostrate Lu Yun – it was the “Wordless Heavenly Book” that Gao Tianye had searched out from the bundle. This “Divine Pellet” only wanted the jade seal and didn’t even glance at other things, throwing them aside upon touch. The heavenly book fell before Lu Yun’s eyes, pages spread open. The brazier had overturned and burning red charcoal fell on the book, about to catch fire. Lu Yun knew he was going to die and just stared with vacant eyes as autumn’s slanting sun appeared in his scattered gaze – under the white birch trees in Yangzhou, he saw Miss Gu’s beautiful figure. Lu Yun’s gaze was dull, saliva flowing, with neither anger nor sorrow, only waiting to complete his duty so he could let go and leave the mortal world.

His eyelids grew heavy as the book before him was roasted by the charcoal fire. Suddenly firefly light flashed, revealing fourteen characters that glowed like luminous pearls.

There is no right or wrong, no persistence – that is a force that shocks people with courage.

“The Kunlun sword emerges, blood flows like ocean, charging a thousand li straight to the Yellow River.”

Lu Yun’s eyes widened as he read the two most prized maxims of “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao. He watched in bewilderment as two glowing pictures appeared on the paper surface. The first picture showed a man holding a sword with both hands, rotating his body form, with an arrow on his wrist indicating internal breath flowing from the qi sea through the mysterious pass straight to the wrist’s Lieque point. The second picture also showed a man, but he was in a horse stance with sword pointing at his waist, the qi arrow flowing from the dantian through Jianjing directly to various points on the wrist, with text beside it reading: “Sword waves churn, Jade Pool shatters waves.”

Just then, Sa Mau kicked with his toe, flipping Lu Yun over as his large hand reached for the baby in Lu Yun’s arms. Lu Yun cried out loudly, flipped and leaped up, without thinking released the baby, letting him roll to his feet, then held the sword with both hands, spinning his body to strike directly at Sa Mau.

Holding the sword with both hands, all internal force poured into Yunmengze. The sword sensed the supreme anger – flowing water created waves in the hall, humming sounds continuous as it chopped toward Sa Mau. This demon was startled and dodged backward with a light step. Lu Yun paid no attention, gritting his teeth and glaring angrily at Gao Tianwei, spreading his feet in a horse stance and slashing horizontally. This sword trembled and swayed up and down, reflecting dreamlike light like towering waves. Everyone who saw this swordsmanship and power was greatly amazed. Gao Tianye exclaimed: “This is Sword Wave! You… are you from Kunlun?”

Lu Yun said nothing more, holding the sword with both hands and spinning to strike down. Gao Tianye quickly dodged backward as Lu Yun sat in horse stance and chopped horizontally, again creating towering giant waves. Gao Tiancheng was greatly shocked and hurriedly blocked with his waist saber – with a clang, the weapon was already severed by Yunmengze. Lu Yun pressed his advantage relentlessly, stomping his left foot and spinning his body like a whirlwind, then immediately swept out with flying kicks, hitting Gao Tiancheng squarely in the chest. With a crack, ribs broke and Gao Tiancheng had already flipped over, seriously injured. This move was the “Whirlwind Leg” from Peerless Continuous Fist mixed into sword techniques, truly impossible to defend against.

Lu Yun held the baby, grabbed the scripture, and kicked the jade seal with his foot – the bluish-green jade drew a green shadow as it flew onto the board table.

Both enemy and ally stood in confrontation, each five feet from the square table. Sa Mau, the two Gao generals, and the constables all watched like tigers, waiting to seize merit. Just then, footsteps sounded outside the shop as a third batch of masters arrived – they must be the other side’s leaders.

Strangely, though trapped in desperate straits, his heart held no trace of sorrow, only complete desolation.

Lu Yun understood in his heart that he had lost everything. He had chosen the second path Qin Zhonghai spoke of. Rank, lover, friends – all gone. This moment was different from the western frontier’s bloody battles, different from wandering and selling noodles – there was no path left before him, only to fight all the way, fight to the end, fight to death…

“Kill!” Kicking hard, the jade seal along with the board table flew out as all the constables reached out to snatch it. Lu Yun charged toward the crowd like a madman, his long sword actually thrusting in a charge – that was battlefield spear technique that no one would apply to a flexible long sword.

The jade seal flew into the air. In that instant, everything before Lu Yun seemed to freeze – he saw Sa Mau’s massive heavy fist pass the sword blade and strike toward his face, about to smash his handsome features to pieces in a moment. More than ten sabers and spears from both sides slashed toward the baby in his arms, who was already crying in fear.

With a thunderous sound, the wall beside the medicine shop broke open as a rope flew through the air, first wrapping around the jade seal, followed by the board table blocking horizontally to separate enemy and ally. In his confusion, Lu Yun was already grabbed by a hand and rolled out of the shop.

Outside the shop, cold wind and rain – one person held Lu Yun under the arms and dragged urgently. This person was not tall, and as Lu Yun was dragged, his feet still dragged on the ground. He was confused, not knowing who else would rescue him. This person before him was half a head shorter than himself with very weak hand strength – who would have the courage to save him?

In this final journey, an unexpected traveler appeared. Lu Yun looked intently and saw the person before him wore a straw raincoat covering a graceful figure. She was not only a woman but a snow-white beautiful woman – it was the ruthless girl known as “Hundred Flower Fairy,” Hu Mei’er!

Lu Yun widened his eyes in bewilderment: “You… why did you save me?”

Hu Mei’er ignored him, threw Lu Yun down and shrieked: “Idiot! Who wanted to save you! This girl just pulled you aside in passing. If you want to live, find your own way out!” She had no time to pay attention to Lu Yun and fled on her own. From behind came the shouts of Gao Tianye and others: “Witch! Don’t think of monopolizing the merit! Hand over the jade seal!”

Lu Yun didn’t know why this witch had rescued him. Both confused and lonely, seeing Hu Mei’er dart into the alley, he didn’t have time to think deeply and, holding the baby, ran after his lifesaver.

That alley was extremely narrow, barely allowing one person to run. Hu Mei’er, gripping the jade seal, ran frantically. After turning several alleys and shaking off the pursuers, just as she was catching her breath, she looked back to see that Lu Yun was actually pursuing relentlessly, following right behind her. Hu Mei’er couldn’t help crying out in alarm: “Everyone escape separately – don’t cling to me! Go away! Go away!” She took out her fly whisk and waved it repeatedly to drive him off, but Lu Yun had risked his life – when the fly whisk swept at his face several times, he treated it like a broom and completely ignored it.

Hu Mei’er’s pretty face turned pale as she cursed angrily in her delicate voice: “What do you want to do? This girl only kindly pulled you aside in passing! Don’t cling to me! So annoying!” She kicked out, trying to force Lu Yun away.

Lu Yun didn’t dodge and took her kick hard to his waist. With his internal injuries, his throat immediately sweetened and he couldn’t help spitting blood. He crouched on the ground, gazing at Hu Mei’er and saying quietly: “Miss Hu, I… I have nowhere to go…”

He continued coughing up blood. Hu Mei’er looked at the man before her, seeing his handsome eyes carrying pleading intent, as if wanting her to take him away. Seeing his completely bedraggled appearance holding the baby, looking utterly pitiful, the more she looked the more her heart softened. But remembering the pursuers behind them, she couldn’t help being afraid and immediately screamed, turning to flee.

Lu Yun, soaked with rain, actually chased after her again. Hu Mei’er stopped and shrieked: “Plague god! Don’t cling to me! Quickly get away from me!” She reached out to push Lu Yun, but this bookworm wouldn’t leave. The two pulled and tugged, and the jade seal in her bosom became unstable and actually fell down. Lu Yun, quick-eyed and fast-handed, caught it first but tucked the jade seal into his bosom and stood motionless.

Hu Mei’er cried out bitterly: “Give it back! Give it back!” Lu Yun shook his head and said quietly: “Please take me along – save me from Tianshui.”

The two stared at each other. Hu Mei’er was furious and about to take out silver needles to deal with him when suddenly heavy footsteps sounded behind them. They heard Gao Tianye shouting loudly: “Hu Mei’er! Everyone gets one piece of merit! The jade seal goes to you, the child goes to me – finders keepers, don’t be too selfish!”

The pursuers had arrived – in no time there would be another good fight. Hu Mei’er angrily stamped her foot hard on the ground and shrieked: “You’re ruthless – follow me then!” Lu Yun’s face showed joy as he immediately stepped forward to follow. Pitiful, this drifter on the vast sea had helplessly treated the witch that everyone feared as his lifesaving driftwood.

Actually, what good intentions did Hu Mei’er have? As soon as Lu Yun entered Tianshui City, Hu Mei’er had already detected his trail and followed all along, only wanting to poison him to death and seize the jade seal. Who knew that hiding in the dark and seeing Lu Yun’s various sufferings would actually make her feel reluctant and hesitate. Later, when Lu Yun fought with Sa Mau and others, Hu Mei’er seized the opportunity to snatch the jade seal. Seeing Lu Yun about to die violently, only because her heart softened did she casually save his life, never expecting that one moment of soft-heartedness would bring her such a plague god.

The two fled all the way. Hu Mei’er, familiar with Tianshui’s terrain, took only alleys and small paths. Soon they had passed through the city, and the two fled along the city walls. After several more li, before them was a rock face with no sign of human habitation. Hu Mei’er squeezed through a rock crevice. In the harsh cold lands of the northwest, people often built cave dwellings – this was an abandoned kiln cave.

Lu Yun hurriedly followed inside, seeing the cave was dark with no human shadow. He immediately called quietly: “Miss Hu, Miss Hu, are you inside?” Before he finished speaking, suddenly the wind sounded urgent as a fly whisk struck at his head. Lu Yun listened to the wind to identify position, slightly shifting his body and reaching forward to grab, relying on “Peerless Continuous Fist” adaptability to actually catch the whisk handle. Just as he was about to clamp and seize it, he heard Hu Mei’er say coldly: “Don’t be ungrateful – I only need to activate the mechanism and I can kill you immediately.”

Hu Mei’er’s fly whisk was full of sinister tricks – poison needles and intoxicating incense, called the “Life-Saving Triple Ring.” Yang Suguan had once suffered from it. Lu Yun’s jianghu experience was far inferior to his peers – how could he be a match? He immediately let go and stopped exerting force.

Hu Mei’er snorted and lit a fire stick. Lu Yun could see clearly that this cave was fairly spacious, about ten feet square with a kang and stove, but the ground was full of mud and ash – apparently long uninhabited. While looking, he suddenly heard Hu Mei’er say coldly: “Hand it over.”

Lu Yun turned his head away: “Hand over what?” Seeing him pretend ignorance, Hu Mei’er couldn’t help being angry: “The jade seal! I’ve already led you away from danger – why don’t you hand over the jade seal? Do you think this girl has nothing better to do?”

Lu Yun looked at the dark, gloomy cave, his heart full of desolation. Suddenly he smiled bitterly and paid no attention to her questioning.

Hu Mei’er was furious. She had killed countless people in her life, and Embroidered Uniform Guards had suffered greatly at her hands. She immediately sneered: “Fool, if you don’t give it to me, can’t I snatch it myself? Die!” The fly whisk swept out toward Lu Yun’s forehead. The whisk handle was made of refined steel and combined with internal force – striking down heavily could seriously injure Lu Yun on the spot. Just as it was about to hit his forehead, Lu Yun still ignored it, only lowering his head to receive it.

Hu Mei’er was shocked and angry, shouting: “What are you doing? Why don’t you block?”

Lu Yun put the baby down and said despondently: “Miss Hu, when you take the jade seal back to camp, they’ll certainly ask about the child’s whereabouts. Rather than put you in a difficult position, better to kill me now. My life was saved by you – now I return it to you without complaint.”

Hu Mei’er laughed and spat: “Fool, what do I want that child for? Do you think that bunch of madmen like Chen Luoshan can control me? I’m seizing this jade seal for Lord Jiang.” Lu Yun came to his senses and asked back: “Jiang Chong is also looking for the jade seal?”

Hu Mei’er sighed: “Lord Jiang’s situation is critical – he can’t be without the jade seal to save his life. My helping him this time is only to fulfill old friendship – I don’t know if I can help him.” Lu Yun’s expression was bitter, knowing that after Liu Angtian’s death, the court situation had fallen into chaos. Even someone of Jiang Chong’s status could barely protect himself. Thinking of the Gu family’s safety, he asked quietly: “Miss Hu, how is the situation in Beijing?”

Hu Mei’er said coldly: “Martial law – what else could it be?” Then she shouted: “This girl has no time to chat with you! Quickly take out the jade seal!”

Lu Yun grunted and immediately took something from his bosom. Hu Mei’er looked intently and saw in his hand was a medicine package – what he’d taken from the ginseng shop earlier. Where was any jade seal?

Seeing Lu Yun pretending to be crazy and acting foolish, applying medicine to the baby’s forehead continuously and treating her like a wooden stone person, Hu Mei’er couldn’t help screaming and kicking toward Lu Yun’s pressure points. This time Lu Yun didn’t sit and wait for death – his body slightly shifted and he had already dodged. Hu Mei’er kicked several times but couldn’t hit him, and couldn’t help being furious: “Weren’t you unafraid of death? Why are you dodging now?”

Lu Yun looked back at Hu Mei’er, their gazes meeting. Hu Mei’er had originally been sneering continuously, but seeing Lu Yun’s gaze full of loneliness and sorrow, as if he had countless troubles waiting to be shared, Hu Mei’er’s heart softened and her cold, proud smile gradually ceased. She avoided Lu Yun’s gaze and said quietly: “Lu Yun, I… I’ve already brought you out of the city as agreed. You… shouldn’t you also give me the… the thing?”

Strangely, what had originally been a matter of course now made her speak softly as if pleading, and even Hu Mei’er herself felt puzzled.

The two looked at each other silently, each without words. Inside the cave, the fire flickered dimly while outside rain pattered. Hu Mei’er quietly listened to the rain – the northeast had little rain, and with harsh winter approaching, this rain was probably the year’s last sweet shower. She coughed again and was about to speak when she heard Lu Yun say: “Miss Hu, thank you for saving my life. It’s dark outside and raining heavily – why don’t you stay overnight? Tomorrow morning when the rain stops, you can take the jade seal and go. How about it?”

Hu Mei’er exclaimed, not knowing what scheme Lu Yun had, and couldn’t help blinking. As Jiang Chong’s beloved general and a witch scorned by all in the martial world, for Lu Yun to let this crafty and scheming witch stay by his side could hardly benefit him. She remembered something and immediately put her hands on her hips, her charming eyes glancing sideways with a cold smile: “Fine! Does the dignified top scholar also want to take the opportunity to learn bad habits?”

Using rain as an excuse to stay overnight, taking advantage to bewitch and steal fragrance – having experienced much of the jianghu, how could Hu Mei’er not know these base tricks? These bad men loved fishing for beauty – if not slipping drugs into food and drink at night, then coming with knives at midnight to force rape. Probably eight or nine out of ten, this top scholar was the same type of goods.

She looked at Lu Yun, seeing he was about eight feet tall, taller than ordinary people, plus with sword eyebrows, thin lips, broad shoulders and narrow waist – quite handsome and heroic. Such good-looking men weren’t easy to seduce – if he crawled over at midnight, it would count as walking into a trap. Hu Mei’er was delighted, her charming eyes immediately rippled as she smiled sweetly: “Fine, this girl will accompany you for one night. Tomorrow morning you must give me the jade seal.”

The two faced each other. Lu Yun could no longer bear it and immediately tears burst from his eyes as he covered his face: “Thank you.”

With a bleak future ahead, in life’s final journey having lost old friends and achievement, the lonely traveler could not bear the sorrow and finally shed tears on his sleeves.

Seeing Lu Yun’s dignified appearance, Hu Mei’er had originally wanted to say a few more teasing words, but seeing him cry, she couldn’t help but be startled. The words that had come to her lips inexplicably shrank back. Unable to contain her curiosity, she thought: “Why is this fellow crying for no reason?”

She took two steps forward to examine the man before her, wanting to ask something but having no clue where to start. Hu Mei’er had always been quick-tongued, flirting and bantering with princes and ministers daily without fail, but now she found she couldn’t find words to speak with Lu Yun – this could be counted as the first strange event of her life. Full of confusion and unable to guess the reason, she suddenly remembered something and said hurriedly: “Lu… are you… are you crying from hunger? Do you want this girl to help you find something to eat?” As soon as these words left her mouth, she felt they were absurd beyond measure and couldn’t help bursting into laughter.

Hearing her laugh, Lu Yun immediately came to his senses and said hurriedly: “It is time to eat… I’ll go prepare. Please watch over the child for me.” He hung Yunmengze at his waist and headed toward the cave entrance again.

Lu Yun left with hunched shoulders, knowing he had escaped the first night’s sorrow.

For some reason, he was very afraid of being alone tonight – he simply didn’t dare face the dark cave by himself. Though Hu Mei’er was a witch feared by everyone, having someone for company and conversation was better than being alone and afraid.

Making noise, quarreling, fighting – anything was fine, just not being alone.

Seeing Iron-Head Lu turn and leave, with both the baby and jade seal remaining in the cave, all left to her, stealing would be as easy as turning over one’s hand. Hu Mei’er was full of amazement and thought: “Is this man crazy or stupid? This girl kills without blinking – isn’t he afraid I’ll take the jade seal and leave? Hmph, he must be secretly watching nearby, deliberately testing to see if he can scare me to death.”

She had always been vicious – when had she ever valued human life? She immediately smiled coldly and took out a silver needle to stab at the baby, wanting to see if Lu Yun was secretly watching nearby.

As the silver needle was about to fall, the baby opened his eyes and looked at the blue-glinting sharp needle with considerable curiosity. His small hand waved toward the silver needle. Hu Mei’er screamed and quickly pulled the needle away. Though she carried antidotes with her, the poison was extremely potent – if the baby was needlessly pricked, even if she saved him, his constitution would probably be damaged and he’d never grow up properly.

Hu Mei’er’s soul had barely settled as she herself broke into a cold sweat. If Lu Yun had been hiding outside the cave, he would have been scared to death. She snorted and thought: “This Lu fellow has really left the cave. This madman is quite a character – clearly Liu Angtian’s lackey, yet he can trust me.”

Though her mouth hung with a cold smile, she carefully wrapped the silver needle in a handkerchief and put it in her waist pouch, fearing she might accidentally harm the baby.

Hu Mei’er yawned and was just thinking about how to deal with Lu Yun when she heard happy laughter. Hu Mei’er made a sound of surprise and looked down to see the baby stretching out both hands as if wanting her to hold him. Seeing that after taking medicine his spirits had revived and he had come back to life, Hu Mei’er smiled slightly and teased: “Little ghost, at such a young age do you also want to take advantage of auntie?” With tender feelings in her heart, she wanted to hold him and was about to reach out when she suddenly came to her senses and quickly pulled her hand back, thinking: “Better not stir up tender feelings for no reason and bring trouble upon myself.”

Hu Mei’er kept her head down and didn’t move, only carefully reflecting on Lu Yun’s behavior. She had traveled throughout the jianghu and years ago had poisoned Zhang Zhiyue and harmed Hao Zhenxiang – she had fought with countless men, but had never seen such a strange man. You couldn’t call him brave or cowardly – earlier he had fought Sa Mau to the death without surrendering, but now he was like a homeless dog, repeatedly pleading with her. This person’s intentions were strange and impossible to fathom.

She looked coldly at the baby and just snorted, thinking darkly: “This little ghost is Liu Angtian’s spawn. How strange – this Lu fellow is close to that demon Qin Zhonghai, so why didn’t he leave the child at Nucang Mountain? Why come down the mountain to run around everywhere?” Looking and looking, she suddenly saw the knife scar on the baby’s head and thought of the same knife wound on Lu Yun’s forehead, immediately understanding: “How stupid of me – that demon Qin Zhonghai is so formidable, how would he start a war with the court for no reason over one child? No matter how much face Lu Yun has, he probably refused to take him.” She secretly sneered and thought: “After all, there aren’t many fools in the world. This Lu fellow is both crazy and stupid, like an idiot. If there were a few more madmen like this, they’d make all the crooked paths straight.”

Her mouth corners rose in a cold smile as she cursed randomly. Bored, she stretched lazily and thought: “That Lu fellow is really slow – just catching a small bird to roast, how can it take so long?” She arched her slender waist back and stretched her arms straight, about to yawn when suddenly inspiration flashed and she couldn’t help standing up and crying out in dismay: “It’s over! It’s over! These heartless, ungrateful men – how could they have any good intentions! That Lu fellow has dumped the child on me and escaped by himself!”

A few hours ago, she had coldly observed as this scholar had helplessly tried to secretly deliver the baby to the inn, hoping kind people would take the child away. At that time, Hu Mei’er had seen it all and her eyes had reddened. She had thought Lu Yun was a good person, but who knew that men were the most callous – seeing she still had some conscience, he immediately dumped this baby and escaped alone. Hu Mei’er knew she had fallen into a mess – if she wanted to escape, she could only heartlessly abandon this innocent child. She listened to the pattering rain outside the cave, thinking Lu Yun had probably already fled back to Tianshui and perhaps had even hired a cart and was sleeping warmly on his way back to the capital. The more Hu Mei’er thought about it, the angrier she became, and she suddenly screamed: “Lu Yun!”

Suddenly she heard footsteps in the passageway as Lu Yun’s rolled-tongue official speech sounded: “Miss, what do you command? I’m listening here.” Hu Mei’er looked sideways to see a tall man before her, soaked with rain, carrying two dead rabbits in his hands as he slowly entered the room. Hu Mei’er’s face reddened, knowing she had wrongly accused him. She spat several times, straightened her clothes, and stood up, shouting: “Bring them here – I’ll roast them.”

Lu Yun shook his head: “No need to trouble Miss. In my youth I was humble, so I can do many menial tasks. I’m most familiar with cooking and odd jobs.” Hu Mei’er couldn’t understand what he was saying and observed coldly as Lu Yun fumbled around under the stove and actually found two broken pottery bowls. He brought in a full bowl of water from outside the cave and began skinning and lighting fires to roast the food.

It was already deep night with darkness and heavy rain – the enemy probably couldn’t detect cooking smoke. Lu Yun began roasting, and soon fragrant aromas filled the air. Lu Yun took out “Yunmengze” and cut a bowl of fragrant roast meat, also roasting several fat mushrooms. Seeing him use his precious sword to cut rabbit, Hu Mei’er found it somewhat inappropriate and was about to tease him when she remembered the fight at the medicine shop and quickly asked: “Hey! How do you know Kunlun swordsmanship?”

Lu Yun was busy cooking when he suddenly heard the question and immediately came to his senses. Earlier, when facing Sa Mau in crisis, he had actually found a way out from that scripture book and used miraculous techniques to defeat the two Gao masters. He put down his long sword, opened his bundle, took out the scripture book and said: “At that time my life was hanging by a thread – I accidentally saw sword techniques in this book and imitated them as best I could.”

Recalling the wind pressure of “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao when he was alive, Hu Mei’er couldn’t help but admire him and quickly said: “Can I look at it?”

Without thinking, Lu Yun casually handed the scripture book over. Hu Mei’er received it in her hands, excited in her heart, thinking: “If I take out a silver needle now and kill him instantly, this book would be mine.”

The evil thought had just emerged and she was about to secretly kill him when she heard Lu Yun say: “I’m not good with sword techniques – if Miss likes this book, you might as well take it.” Hu Mei’er was greatly shocked – martial arts secret manuals were priceless, and masters would go to heaven and earth seeking one set of exquisite martial arts. How could this person be so generous? She rubbed her eyes as if seeing some monster and said in alarm:

“You… aren’t you going to practice it yourself?”

Lu Yun had his back turned as he cut meat and cooked, saying: “This book doesn’t belong to me – I don’t know who mistakenly placed it in my luggage. It’s originally ownerless. Now with war and chaos everywhere, I have no time to seek the lost owner. Miss, you saved my life – if you like it, why not keep it? In the future you can return it to its original owner for me.”

Hearing him speak so generously, Hu Mei’er couldn’t help but be completely confused, thinking: “This person and I are strangers who just met – how can he be so kind? He probably copied it first, or else smeared poison on the paper to deal with me.” She smiled coldly – her poison skills were incredibly powerful, so how could she fear these petty tricks? She immediately opened the pages to read.

When the book opened, the pages were completely wordless. Hu Mei’er was so angry she exploded, trying to tear the book and screaming: “It’s blank! You’re playing tricks on me!” But the book seemed to be made of some unknown material and couldn’t be torn despite her efforts. In her fury, she casually used the book like a silver needle and threw it hard at Lu Yun.

Lu Yun hurriedly caught it and explained: “This book normally shows no words – at that time I was collapsed beside the fire pile…”

Hearing Lu Yun’s rambling chatter, Hu Mei’er was sick of this person’s false kindness and had no mind to listen more, cursing repeatedly: “Enough! People in this world promise much but deliver little – they’re all fraudsters!” She sat down angrily and picked up a rabbit leg to chew. Lu Yun sighed and said no more, returning to boil water.

Hu Mei’er cursed as she ate – she was also quite hungry and actually ate the entire bowl of rabbit meat clean. Seeing Lu Yun’s bowl of rabbit meat completely untouched, she said: “What are you busy with? Aren’t you hungry?” Without waiting for Lu Yun’s reply, she grabbed a tender piece of rabbit meat and ate it, getting the first taste advantage.

Lu Yun took out the wound medicine and divided it into several portions to boil in pottery bowls, saying: “This child still has a fever. He absolutely cannot be without medicine these two days.” Then he held the baby and wiped his body with hot water.

Hu Mei’er saw Lu Yun’s method of caring for the baby was quite skilled, completely unlike a scholar. She had always associated with princes and ministers and had never seen men do such menial work, so she felt somewhat surprised. She laughed dryly several times: “You’re quite capable – you can even raise children. Whoever marries you will surely have a blessed life.”

Lu Yun watched the pottery bowl in the stove, fearing the fire was too strong and might crack it. He sighed slightly and shook his head: “My fiancée is the daughter of the Minister of War – she’s not lacking in servants.”

Hu Mei’er bit into the rabbit meat and smiled: “You’re foolish. Servants are servants, heroes are heroes – the more heroic a man’s spirit, the more girls like them to humble themselves and serve attentively.”

Lu Yun shook his head: “Isn’t it just eating and drinking? Whoever serves is the same – what difference is there?”

Hu Mei’er laughed heartily: “Very different! When servants do things for you, they look at silver. When heroes serve ladies by massaging backs and cooking, they look at true love and honey affection. The more iron-hearted the hero, the more tender his face – I also especially love having such men serve me.”

Lu Yun thought of Qin Zhonghai and suddenly felt dark in his heart, couldn’t help saying: “You’re wrong. These heroes aren’t ordinary people – their hearts are as hard as iron. They can give up women’s affection and brotherly loyalty.”

Hu Mei’er spat: “Fool! Common people don’t fight officials, women don’t fight men – to make these tigers and bears bow their heads requires some brain work. Understand?”

Lu Yun saw the water was about to boil and put the wound medicine into the bowl, stirring with his long sword. Hu Mei’er called: “Hey! I’m talking to you – don’t be so listless!” Lu Yun had his back turned and said faintly: “Go ahead – I like listening to you talk.”

Hearing these words, Hu Mei’er felt inexplicably happy and immediately smiled: “I say, for a weak woman like me to make real heroes submit, I need to use some methods. If I can’t win fighting head-on and can’t provoke from the side, can’t I step on their heads?”

Lu Yun frowned and didn’t reply. Hu Mei’er’s charming eyes rippled as she was truly delighted, laughing: “The more people fancy themselves heroes, the more they can’t give up their skills and ambitions. These people work for the court, work for their masters, but can’t do truly bad things – they can’t get ahead and can only sigh and complain daily like fools who blame heaven and others. If you fight and kill with them, these heroes are most capable and it’s definitely a dead end. But if you get hold of their leader, won’t these poor creatures obediently let you manipulate them? Then you just crook your little finger and they’ll call you ‘Fairy Sister’ this and ‘Fairy Sister’ that, obediently bringing you foot-washing water! Haha! Haha!”

Lu Yun sighed quietly: “Miss Hu, in this life do you have nothing else to do besides fighting and struggling?” Hu Mei’er screamed and put down the pottery bowl in her hands, saying coldly: “What did you say? Do you look down on my character?”

Lu Yun looked intently at Hu Mei’er. Though he said nothing, his gaze said everything.

Hu Mei’er became angry and raised her fly whisk, saying sternly: “Lu Yun, no one who has insulted this Hundred Flower Fairy has ever had a good end – do you want to try?” She raised her voice sharply, and the baby was frightened and began crying – apparently hearing the two adults quarreling made him afraid.

Lu Yun saw Hu Mei’er’s face full of anger but her eyes contained tears. His heart slightly awakened, knowing this woman appeared cold and proud but was actually very fragile inside. He walked over and crouched beside Hu Mei’er’s legs, saying softly: “Miss Hu, you and I are just strangers who met by chance. Earlier when I was about to die, why did you risk life and death to save me?”

Hu Mei’er turned her head away and said resentfully: “I just acted casually – don’t be so pleased with yourself.” Lu Yun crouched on the ground looking up at Hu Mei’er and said gently: “Miss Hu, earlier when I was about to die, without your kindness, both the child and I would have died. No matter what you say or what others say, in my heart you’ll always be a good person.”

Hu Mei’er had originally been gritting her teeth as if harboring endless hatred, but hearing Lu Yun’s words, she involuntarily froze.

Her gaze slowly became gentle as she said quietly: “You think I’m a good person?” Lu Yun nodded: “The very best.”

Hu Mei’er bit her red lips and suddenly burst into loud laughter. Cold light flashed as the silver needle in her hand shot out, embedding precisely in the rock wall beside Lu Yun. Her casual needle penetrated half an inch into the rock – the needle was truly sharp beyond measure. She screamed: “Fool! Go die! Who’s a good person! I fundamentally don’t want to be a good person!”

That poison needle was extremely sinister – years ago Zhang Zhiyue died instantly from just one, and even with Zhuo Lingzhao’s thick power, if suddenly pricked he’d have to use all his strength to drive out the poison. If Lu Yun had been struck, he probably truly would have been doomed.

Hu Mei’er’s anger didn’t subside as she fiercely threw the pottery bowl in her hand, immediately smashing it to pieces with rabbit meat rolling all over the ground. She turned her back and said coldly: “Lu, prepare the jade seal – this girl will leave as soon as dawn breaks tomorrow morning.”

Lu Yun silently nodded and bent down to pick up the broken bowl shards in the baby’s crying, saying nothing more.

In the deep of night, the rain continued without cease and everyone had settled down to rest. Lu Yun slept on the ground tightly holding the baby, leaving the warm kang for Hu Mei’er. The cold air was severe – when a gust of cold wind blew into the cave, it was early winter in the western frontier, truly bone-chilling cold. Hu Mei’er had lived in luxury these years and naturally wasn’t used to sleeping on this country black kang. The long night was endless – she tossed and turned, curled up and shivering constantly, finding it very difficult to endure.

She knew Lu Yun was an upright gentleman who definitely wouldn’t come disturb or ambush her at night, so she wasn’t afraid. She just faced the inner wall, left hand clutching her clothes, right hand gripping her fly whisk tightly, thinking of Lu Yun’s gaze toward her full of comfort and guidance, like the private school teachers she’d seen as a child. She was extremely troubled and couldn’t sleep, tossing and turning – inexplicably her eyes moistened several times and she actually wanted to cry.

She opened her eyes and gritted her teeth, thinking: “What am I doing? Hu Mei’er, oh Hu Mei’er, with your precious golden body that everyone longs to kowtow and befriend, why are you suffering here accompanying this big one and little one squatting in a cold kiln?” She spat and sat up, thinking: “Lu fellow, this girl has no time to play games with you – I must leave.”

Hu Mei’er’s eyes slightly shifted as she saw the bundle in a corner of the cave – the jade seal must be stored inside. She took a deep breath and tiptoed to the bundle’s side, searching inside and out. She found that strange wordless book from earlier plus over ten silver notes, with nothing else. This bookworm had actually hidden the jade seal away.

Hu Mei’er was furious, secretly hating: “These thieves are all no good – they speak nicely to your face but are still very guarded behind your back. They say it better than they sing, calling me a good person? Shameless!” For a moment her charming eyes flashed with fierce light, very angry, as she picked up her fly whisk and wanted to go on a killing spree, randomly finishing off Lu Yun.

Turning around and about to shoot out the silver needle, she suddenly saw a bluish-green stone placed on the kang – clearly the jade seal. Hu Mei’er covered her mouth in surprise – so Lu Yun had already awakened. Otherwise how could the jade seal have appeared silently?

Hu Mei’er glanced sideways and saw this man lying on the ground holding the baby, still pretending to sleep. Hu Mei’er snorted twice, not knowing whether she should thank him, picked up the jade seal and was about to leave. Walking to Lu Yun’s feet, she suddenly heard a sigh. Hu Mei’er looked back to see Lu Yun’s eyes open, gazing at her.

Hu Mei’er was somewhat flustered: “Lu fellow, I… I’ll go first… see… see you later…” Lu Yun didn’t get up, only smiled slightly and nodded: “Miss Hu, thank you for accompanying me this stretch of road. Wishing you a smooth journey.” He then turned toward the inner wall and closed his eyes again.

Hu Mei’er heard his thanks and involuntarily nodded. She looked at Lu Yun, not knowing what to say, lowered her head and left, her heart somewhat stifled though she couldn’t explain why.

Reaching the cave entrance, she saw heavy rain falling everywhere – outside the cave was like a rain curtain waterfall, and the cold wind made one’s body even colder. Just then she suddenly heard distant wolves howling continuously, seeming to come in packs. Hu Mei’er’s face trembled as she moved several large stones from the roadside to the cave entrance, thinking this could defend against the wolf pack.

After being busy for quite a while, Hu Mei’er didn’t know what she was busy with. After all, she was leaving anyway, wasn’t she?

She looked at the stones on the ground and suddenly sighed softly, thinking: “I wonder how Lord Jiang is doing? When I return to Beijing this time, can I still live the good life I had before?” Thinking of Jiang Chong’s instructions before leaving the capital, she knew the court situation was critical – if Jiang Chong fell, what would she do? If she had to depend on Chen Luoshan and take anger from the Gao generals, she was unwilling no matter what. Better to return home to the countryside for a more pleasant life. With her heart full of troubles, she actually crouched down, looking at the waterfall outside the cave, somewhat not knowing where to go.

She held her chin with both hands and closed her eyes, as if Lu Yun was still crouching beside her, looking at her with that pleading gaze. Hu Mei’er said blankly: “A good person? I’m a good person?” She looked back toward the lonely traveler in the cave, still holding the baby lying on the ground, as if still waiting for her to return.

Inexplicably tears burst out as Hu Mei’er suddenly picked up her fly whisk and struck hard against the rock wall, crying: “I don’t want to be a good person! I don’t want to be a good person!”

After suffering for ten years, moving her heart and enduring nature, she had finally become a cold-blooded, hard-hearted witch who killed without blinking – if all her previous efforts were wasted, she would become that good girl who could be slaughtered and bullied by anyone again… Hu Mei’er cried like a tearful person, hating more as she thought, only wanting to give that private school teacher a good beating. Suddenly she rushed into the cave and roared: “Lu Yun!”