Life is like a temporary lodging, and fortune changes without warning. Sometimes a person might be selling noodles in the morning and driving a cart in the afternoon. But lately, luck has been extraordinarily poor. After finally getting his first job in Beijing, carrying two beautiful female passengers, he encountered soldiers fighting and had his cart driven away. Now he could only wait here like a farmer waiting for a rabbit, hoping for “Madam Yang” to appear and return the cart. But what should he do?

While others dream of fine food and meat when they sleep, Lu Yun had nothing but nightmares. He was dreaming of failing exams and fleeing, falling into waterfalls, and encountering hungry ghosts surrounding the capital, when suddenly he heard distant shouting: “Qin Zhonghai is coming! Qin Zhonghai is coming!” Upon hearing this cry, Lu Yun startled awake. Despite his martial arts achievements, his body still swayed, losing balance and falling toward the deep valley.

With a “whoosh” sound, Lu Yun used his palm’s sticky energy to steady himself. Just as he was about to climb back up the tree, the shouting disappeared.

In his dazed state, Lu Yun wasn’t sure if he had been having a nightmare or experiencing tinnitus. He rubbed his eyes and thought: “How strange, I actually fell asleep.” Looking up at the sky, he saw the heavens were dim and hazy with fine snow falling, making it difficult to tell the time. He grabbed some white snow from the tree, wiped his face with it, and roused his spirits.

Lu Yun was exhausted. Last night he had rushed about tirelessly without sleeping, and early this morning he witnessed countless hungry ghosts surrounding the city. Later at the city gate, he encountered official troops conducting searches and got into a fierce fight. If he didn’t seize this moment for a brief rest, when else could he close his eyes? Just as he was yawning, he suddenly heard a thunderous rumbling below the tree, followed by roaring voices: “Make way! Clear the path ahead!”

Lu Yun was startled and turned to look. He saw flying sand and rolling stones below the tree as a large group of cavalry came galloping forward. In the center flew a banner reading “Loyalist Army,” with long banners on either side – left reading “Cavalry Battalion” and right reading “Prince De’s Troops.” In the center rode a commanding general who was none other than Prince De, who had directed this morning’s battle at the city gate.

The “Loyalist Army Cavalry Battalion” had arrived at Hongluo Mountain. Judging by the thundering hoofbeats, at least a hundred riders passed by. These men paid no heed to the Buddhist temple’s tranquility as they charged up the mountain path and burst through the temple gates. Such urgency could only mean they had come to see the current Emperor.

At dawn in the western suburbs, a great battle had erupted. Lu Yun had witnessed with his own eyes countless disaster victims surging toward the capital, crowding and pushing against the court’s troops outside the city gates. This battle had cost the Loyalist Army its Grand Marshal, the Grand Commander known as “Prince Hui,” Zhu Qi. Fortunately, Wu Dingyuan had been stationed at the city gate and managed to control the situation.

Seeing the hundred riders rushing urgently up the mountain, Lu Yun couldn’t help but sigh, then thought again of the current greatest rebel, the “Furious King” Qin Zhonghai.

Outside the city were all disaster victims, inside the city were all common people. On one side were the “Nation-Protecting Iron Guards,” on the other side was “Furious Cang Mountain,” and there was also the troublemaking “Righteous Volunteers.” With the world in such a state, what could be done? Lu Yun raised his head and gazed at the heavens, thinking: “Oh Heaven, oh Heaven, why do you never send rain? What are you testing us for?”

Before his death, Tianjue had left these final words: “By the Golden Water Bridge, dragons spit pearls; in the Buddhist nation of Shaolin, a great drought year.” Since leaving the waterfall, everything he had seen and heard confirmed that this Zhengtong Dynasty was truly experiencing heaven-sent drought and earth-scorching heat, with vegetation growing in reverse. Seeing Hongluo Temple crowded with distinguished guests today, weren’t they also here to pray for next year’s rain? Yet it was already past the Lantern Festival and still frighteningly cold. By the Beginning of Spring, there would be no rainwater, only frost and snow. How could the common people plant and transplant rice seedlings?

Thinking of the Righteous Volunteers, Lu Yun couldn’t help but sigh again. Within three days, he would have to meet that “Miss Qi.” Whether or not to become this “Jing Ke,” whether or not to descend into this sea of suffering – he had to make a decision.

If he killed Yang Suguan, would Heaven send rain? That “Miss Qi” claimed to have cast three divinations for the world. Could it be that the final divination was to kill one person to appease Heaven, to spill blood on the neck to thank the spirits?

Lu Yun took a deep breath. With his mind troubled and confused, he could no longer rest peacefully. Looking around and seeing no one about, he immediately leaped down from the tree and entered Hongluo Temple.

Though Hongluo Temple was large, it had only one mountain gate. Originally, he had planned to simply wait by the tree trunk to see Gu Qianxi, but who knew that man’s plans could not match Heaven’s calculations – he had actually fallen asleep in the tree. Perhaps Gu Qianxi had already entered the temple, which was also possible. With no other way to verify this, he could only sneak into the temple to look around and try his luck.

Strangely, this mountain path that should have been heavily guarded was now completely empty, with the guards nowhere to be found. Since Lu Yun carried nothing with him – no documents, no travel passes – and seeing no one to question him, he was quite content with this convenience. Just as he was yawning, he suddenly heard snorting sounds from the roadside. Turning to look, he saw a blue-green horse standing alone by the road.

Lu Yun was curious and walked closer. He saw that this blue-green horse had a jade-pure coat with hooves white as snow – clearly a fine horse. It must belong to some high official, but for some unknown reason, it was now left by the roadside without even being tethered, its owner nowhere to be seen.

Lu Yun felt somewhat puzzled. Walking to the horse’s side to examine it, he saw a bulging large hemp sack hanging diagonally beside the saddle, marked “Ten Thousand Silver Great Silver House.” Presumably it contained gold and silver.

Lu Yun was greatly shocked. How could someone abandon such valuable wealth? Could there have been an accident? Being naturally warm-hearted, he quickly called out in all directions: “Is anyone here?” After shouting several times with no response, he became more worried: “Could someone have fallen from the horse?”

Galloping on horseback was extremely taxing on the mind and spirit. The slightest bump or careless moment could result in falling from the horse – light injuries might mean broken bones, severe ones could cost a life. The more Lu Yun thought about it, the more wrong it seemed. He quickly turned to look around and saw that the roadside was overgrown with tall grass covered in white snow, growing perhaps as tall as a person. If someone had fallen into the mountain valley, it might be ten days to half a month before anyone noticed. With this thought, he quickly swept his sleeve to brush away the accumulated snow on the grass, intending to part the grass and investigate. Suddenly, his whole body felt a chill and he shivered for no apparent reason.

Unconsciously, Lu Yun stepped back, instinctively sensing that a fierce beast was hiding in the grass.

Was there a tiger in the grass? A lion? Or was a giant bear crouching there? Lu Yun felt slightly hesitant. Hongluo Temple was densely populated and should not have wild beasts, but in these deep, dark forests, if bears and tigers had made their dens here, it would be hard to say.

As he pondered, Lu Yun again went to part the tall grass, but his hand had barely extended when suddenly the strange sensation became even more intense, as if what was hidden in the grass was not lions or tigers, but demons and monsters.

Lu Yun took a deep breath. He thought that with his high martial arts skills, even if he truly encountered a big cat, he needn’t be afraid. But if it were supernatural spirits, then he couldn’t be too careful. He stepped back and saw some broken stones on the ground, which he picked up and concealed in his palm. As the saying goes, “beat the grass to startle the snake” – if there was a monster in the grass, he needed to strike it and startle it, not worrying about forcing it out. With this thought, Lu Yun made a “whoosh” sound and threw out a stone. He heard a “thud” as the stone fell into the grass silently, and no fierce beast or monster leaped out. Lu Yun pondered briefly, then threw another stone with twenty percent more force.

With a ringing sound, sparks flew and the stone bounced back as if it had struck something hard, and there was faintly an “ouch” sound. Lu Yun was greatly puzzled, not knowing what was hidden in the grass. He then regulated his breathing, gathered his sword-light internal energy, bent his finger to grip a stone, and was about to shoot it out with full force when the grass rustled as if something was about to crawl out.

Lu Yun shivered slightly and quickly stepped back. But as soon as his foot retreated, the grass immediately became quiet, as if the wild beast had hibernated again.

Lu Yun was even more surprised, thinking silently: “What exactly is this?” Seeing a tree branch on the ground, he picked it up, intending to go over and give it a few lashes, when he heard the loud rumbling of cart wheels on the mountain path – someone else was coming. Lu Yun was waiting for Gu Qianxi, so hearing the sound made him nervous. He turned to look and saw a large cart approaching from the mountain gate direction, pulled by two white horses, which seemed to truly be Gu Qianxi. In an instant, he hurried to hide behind a large tree.

The cart came at great speed, bouncing and swaying. Suddenly he saw on the driver’s seat a tiger-like man who appeared to be a martial arts figure – where was Gu Qianxi?

Lu Yun realized he had mistaken the person and was about to shake his head and leave when he heard an old woman’s scolding voice from inside the cart canopy: “At such an advanced age, you still can’t drive steadily? Did you practice martial arts until your brain broke?” This old woman had a Shandong accent, exactly like Lu Yun’s hometown dialect, making him feel as if he were hearing his mother speak. It was particularly warm and touching, so he couldn’t help but stay to listen. He then heard another old woman scold: “Practicing martial arts won’t break your brain, but drinking is hard to say! Tongming! Tell Er’niang! What were you doing at the wine house again last night?” Hearing the name “Tongming,” Lu Yun couldn’t help but smile slightly. Indeed, he saw that the man on the driver’s seat had thick eyebrows and big eyes, was covered in bandages all over his body, and had injuries all over his face – it was indeed Song Tongming.

Last night at Wanfu Tower, this “Little Divine Blade” had fought in the vanguard and was slashed by black-clothed men until his head was broken and bloody. Who would have thought that after one night, he still looked so miserable? Hearing his mothers’ nagging, he could only scratch his head and sigh: “Mother…”

“Mother what?” Before he could finish speaking, loud roaring erupted from inside the cart: “Which mother? Speak clearly! You only have eyes for First Mother and none for Second Mother, Third Mother, Fourth Mother, Fifth Mother? After raising you this big, you beast, are you really Big Sister’s own child?”

Song Tongming tried to explain: “I…” But after saying just the word “I,” the old women roared again: “I what? You only have ‘I’ in your heart! ‘I’! ‘I’! Just yourself! No one else? Selfish and self-centered! The smallest heart!”

Lu Yun had never visited the “Old Divine Blade’s” residence, so he didn’t know how many wives he had. In any case, the cart canopy seemed full of old women with endless scolding, and Song Tongming couldn’t handle it. He could only change his approach: “You…”

“You?” The old women flew into a rage: “‘You’! ‘You’! You what? You won’t even call us Mother? Every day it’s just you, you, you – no respect for elders, disloyal, unfilial, unkind, unrighteous, and no money in your pockets! Are you even human?”

These old women seemed to have practiced some kind of formation. Though clearly four or five people were speaking and scolding, it sounded like one voice in coordinated attack. For a moment, it was like the scene of three mothers teaching their son, with endless nagging. Song Tongming couldn’t argue back, so he picked up a water jug from beside the driver’s seat, intending to drink, when the mothers roared again: “Thirsty for what? We’ve been talking so much and haven’t had a sip of water, so what are you thirsty for? Your father is eighty years old and you’re still such a lone wolf – you don’t even think of him! Damn raising a beast like you!”

Hands reached out from the cart canopy, ten hands taking turns pulling and tugging, not forgetting to deliver slaps. Song Tongming could bear it no longer and suddenly roared: “Damn it! Get lost!” He displayed a brutal demeanor, cursed twice, and abandoned the cart to flee.

“Divine Blade Energy!” With flashing figures, five old women flew out, grabbed Song Tongming, seized his limbs and pulled his topknot, struggling to drag him back. Song Tongming was also strong and immediately roared back: “Divine Blade Energy!” He shook off the old women, rolled forward, and hurriedly escaped. The old women drove the cart in pursuit, shouting: “Wait!”

Women are like this – charming and lovely as young girls, unpredictable in mood after marriage, and by old age they all become this monotonous pattern. After listening to their nagging for a while, Lu Yun felt secretly afraid, and unconsciously his longing for Gu Qianxi actually diminished by several degrees.

Just as he was smiling wryly, he suddenly remembered the blue-green horse and turned back to investigate.

The roadside was completely empty – the horse had vanished! Lu Yun was stunned and quickly returned to the grass to investigate. After looking several times, he saw no human figure and didn’t know if the horse’s owner had returned or what had happened.

With the world in decline, strange events were increasing. Lu Yun stood there bewildered, shook his head, and continued toward the temple.

The snow was getting heavier, creating a vast white expanse. Lu Yun walked forward about a hundred feet and came to a long, wide stairway that appeared to lead directly to the front courtyard plaza. Just as he was about to walk up casually, he noticed mountain paths on both sides of the stairway with cart wheel tracks on the ground – presumably Song Tongming and his family had entered from here.

Life is like this – whenever one encounters a fork in the road, taking the wrong path often means decades of wasted years. Lu Yun looked at the diverging paths before him and couldn’t help but hesitate. After thinking, he laughed it off and mused: “Forget it all – life has reached this state, what is there left to worry about?” He swept his sleeve and walked up the stairs. Before long, he had reached the front courtyard plaza.

Actually, this wasn’t Lu Yun’s first visit to Hongluo Temple. He had come here to sell noodles just last night. But yesterday happened to be the fifteenth, the Lantern Festival, and the temple was packed with people like a mountain or sea, extraordinarily lively. However, after one day and night had passed, with the Lantern Festival ended, hungry ghosts surrounding the capital, and all roads out of the capital blocked, the temple was naturally cold and deserted, with only a few monks sweeping the ground with lowered heads and no other outsiders.

Lu Yun, after all, had no official position and found it inappropriate to be too conspicuous, so he first hid under a tree and looked around, thinking: “Strange, where have all the guests gone? Why isn’t there a single person visible?” Seeing no one around, he emerged again and wandered about the temple freely.

This trip, Lu Yun had come without any particular purpose, only wanting to find traces of Gu Qianxi. As for what to do after finding her, whether to meet her face to face or continue secretly following her forever, he actually hadn’t thought about it at all.

Since returning to the capital, Lu Yun had consistently been unwilling to show his face. Even with Gu Qianxi right before his eyes, he restrained himself from appearing. Actually, this wasn’t the first time – he had been like this since his youth. Back then, he was only twenty-seven or twenty-eight, living under someone else’s roof as Wu Dingyuan’s mounted archer. Knowing that Gu Qianxi was in the Minister’s residence, he suppressed the longing in his heart and refused to see her. Sometimes when the emotional pain became unbearable, he would hide across from her house to drink, hoping Heaven would take pity and let him catch a distant glimpse of her figure – that would be enough.

More than ten years had passed, but his circumstances remained unchanged. Lu Yun looked up and sighed softly, seeing snowflakes dancing all over the sky, seeming to represent his own life – forever so desolate and bitter, caught in a dilemma.

The snow was falling more heavily, making it impossible to see anything clearly. Just as he was searching for direction, he suddenly saw a lamp in the snowy mist, appearing dim and hazy. Lu Yun listened carefully and knew there were five people ahead. Just as he was about to avoid them, they noticed him and called out: “Sir! Please wait!”

With the wild wind and heavy snow, Lu Yun squinted and saw five lanterns surrounding him. A military officer approached from the front, holding an umbrella in his left hand and a Kong Ming lantern in his right, calling loudly: “What is your honored surname and great name, sir? Which prince’s guest are you?” Lu Yun had originally been full of wariness, but hearing the polite inquiry, he was instead stunned. The officer, forced by wind and snow to barely open his eyes, shouted again: “The court has issued an edict that all guests of the Eight Princes must wait in the front hall. Which prince’s guest are you, sir? Please tell us quickly!”

Lu Yun understood he had come to the wrong place, but it wouldn’t be proper to randomly claim “Hui, Tang, Xu, Feng, Lu,” so he could only say: “This humble person… this humble person is surnamed Lu, from Shandong.” The officer shouted: “From Shandong! Then you’re Prince Lu’s guest! Follow me!” He held the umbrella over Lu Yun, picked up a lantern to lead the way, cursing: “This damn Heaven doesn’t send rain, but when it snows, it’s more than pissing! Damn it!”

This snowstorm came with such fierce urgency, with gusts of howling wind that made the lanterns flicker on and off. The man nearly got blown over several times, all relying on Lu Yun’s support, so he laughed: “Your martial arts are superb, sir! Prince Lu inviting you as assistance will surely bring victory!”

Lu Yun didn’t know what he was babbling about and could only mumble agreement. He heard the officer shout: “Right here! After you enter the hall, go straight ahead – it’s the second tent on the left side of the plaza.”

Ahead was a vermillion red gate, wide and magnificent, with side doors on both sides. But with the wind and snow too heavy, there was no time to look carefully. He could only rush into the hall. Lu Yun removed his large felt coat, breathed a sigh of relief, first shook off the white snow from his body, then looked up to see a deep hall before him with divine statues standing on the left and right – towering and massive, they were Buddhism’s “Four Heavenly Kings.”

This place was deep, quiet, and tranquil, vastly different from the howling wind and storm outside. Lu Yun looked up in reverence and saw the various gods carrying bows and swords, looking down from above – some fierce, some solemn, all with an aura of slaughter that made people instinctively afraid.

This Heavenly King Hall, also called the “Mountain Gate Hall,” followed Buddhist custom in enshrining the “Eastern Dhṛtarāṣṭra,” “Western Virūpākṣa,” “Northern Vaiśravaṇa,” and “Southern Virūḍhaka” – the Four Heavenly Kings. Lu Yun walked before the “Eastern Dhṛtarāṣṭra” and suddenly thought: “This Heavenly King with his white face and imposing build bears three parts resemblance to Lord Lu.”

Just as he was looking, he suddenly noticed another golden-armored divine statue standing beside the hall – handsome and fair-complexioned, also ten feet tall, but holding a crescent moon blade in his hands. Lu Yun was slightly stunned and thought again: “This divine statue is truly beautiful, even more handsome than a real person.” He walked over to examine it closely when the statue “hummed” and glanced at him sideways, then walked out of the hall.

Lu Yun was horrified and gaped. Though he had never believed in ghosts and spirits, at this moment he couldn’t help but point with trembling finger. Just as he was in shock, footsteps sounded softly behind him. Lu Yun quickly turned to see a young novice monk holding a jade tray, saying irritably: “Benefactor, please receive the scripture.”

Lu Yun, still shaken, quickly pointed toward the hall entrance and said in a trembling voice: “Little master, just now that… that divine statue moved!” The young novice laughed: “Benefactor, you’re making much of little! That was the current Commander of the Imperial Guards, You Tianding, who specially guards the gate for His Majesty.”

Lu Yun was dazed for a long while: “Guards… guards the gate?” The young novice grew impatient, holding up the jade tray and shouting: “Benefactor! Quickly receive the scripture! I still have business to attend to!” Lu Yun looked down and saw the jade tray contained a scripture book and a string of prayer beads, immediately looking bewildered: “What… what is this?”

The young novice said proudly: “His Majesty has decreed that all visiting guests must receive Buddhist implements and participate in the dharma assembly. Are you taking them or not?”

Lu Yun made an “ah” sound and humbly received them, saying: “Thank you for His Majesty’s bestowal.” The young novice said sternly: “When chanting scriptures, benefactor must be sincere. If you’re perfunctory, Buddha will know.”

Confucius said: “Not knowing life, how can one know death?” The greatest taboo in governance is not asking about the people’s livelihood but about ghosts and spirits. However, seeing the young novice’s serious expression, how could Lu Yun not follow local customs? He touched the little monk’s bald head and said gently: “Little master, rest assured. For your sake, I will definitely chant properly.” The young novice made a surprised sound, his face reddening as he scolded: “Why are you touching my head!” Just as he was about to come forward to argue, Lu Yun ran quickly and had already escaped without a trace.

Exiting the hall, before him stretched a vast plaza between the main hall and the Heavenly King Hall, extraordinarily spacious. Tents were erected on both sides – four on the left, four on the right, totaling eight tents. Prince banners fluttered before each tent: on the left were “Hui,” “Lu,” “Chuan,” and “Shouchun,” while on the right were “Tang,” “Feng,” “Xu,” and “Kang.” Lu Yun thought: “Yes, this must be the venue for the heir selection assembly.”

Since entering the capital, the words “heir selection” had blocked the roads. Lu Yun didn’t know how many times he’d heard people mention it. Among these eight princes, he had already met Shu Ning’s husband “Prince Xu” at the Yang residence, encountered the jealous “Prince Lu” last night at Wanfu Tower, and this morning at the city gate battle had seen the loyalist Grand Commander “Prince Hui.” He had now seen three of the eight princes, but didn’t know what kind of people the remaining ones were.

Lu Yun turned to look toward the front of the plaza and saw a large pine tree covered with vines – this was one of Hongluo’s three scenic spots, “Purple Wisteria Supporting Pine.” Below the tree was a high platform divided into three levels. The lowest level had five wide chairs covered with precious tiger skins, above that were three stools, and looking at the top level, he saw a throne.

This throne was actually divided into two seats – one slightly lower with a phoenix-embroidered backrest, one slightly higher embroidered with nine dragons and yellow silk, with an incense burner shaped like mountains and rivers placed in front. Needless to say, this must be the supreme imperial seat of Emperor Zhengtong.

Lu Yun had been away from court for a long time. Now seeing the Son of Heaven’s guest throne again, the court had completely changed personnel – Jiang Chong was dead, Liu Jing was dead, even the emperor had been replaced. Thinking of Gu Siyuan’s death, he couldn’t help but sigh softly. Just as he was feeling melancholy, he suddenly heard someone behind him say: “Minister Zheng, this golden platform must be His Majesty’s throne, right?” Another person laughed: “Isn’t that obvious? Such a solemn place – if it’s not for His Majesty to sit, who else in the world could sit there?” That person laughed: “That’s true too. What about those three stools below the platform? Who are they for?”

The earlier “Minister Zheng” laughed: “My good ‘Crouching Bull Saint’ Ximen Song, shouldn’t you know these court matters better than I? Why bother asking me?” Lu Yun turned to look and saw two men standing in the corridor – one wearing official robes, clearly a civil servant, the other holding a folding fan, still fanning himself even in the depths of winter. This must be “Ximen Song.”

These three characters “Ximen Song” sounded somewhat familiar, but he couldn’t remember where he’d heard them. Just as he was pondering, the two men noticed Lu Yun and both coughed, each walking away a few steps. He heard Ximen Song say: “Minister Zheng, please tell me how His Majesty has arranged the seating for the princes today?”

Minister Zheng said in a low voice: “The middle one is for the Imperial Uncle Qiong, the left one is for Minister He. As for the right one, hehe, it’s the bestowed seat for the Grand Commander of the Zhengtong Army, ‘Mighty Marquis’ Wu Dingyuan.” Lu Yun’s internal energy was deep, and though they spoke in low voices, he still heard everything clearly, knowing that cabinet ministers, imperial relatives and honored officials, and frontier commanders had all assembled. Ximen Song whispered again: “This is mysterious – what about Minister Yang? Where does he sit?”

Minister Zheng reached into his robes, took out a folded paper, examined it for a long while, then pondered: “He sits in the back row, behind Prince Shouchun’s tent.” Lu Yun looked toward the plaza and saw that Prince Shouchun’s tent was positioned at the very end of the eastern row, farthest from the imperial golden platform. Just as he was puzzled, Ximen Song also asked: “Strange, isn’t Minister Yang highly regarded by His Majesty? How did he get relegated to the frontier?”

Minister Zheng said in a low voice: “I also find this odd. In previous years, he always sat beside Minister He…” Just as they were discussing, they heard a cold, stern voice say: “What is there to discuss about this matter? Though Minister Yang is honored as one of the Five Ministers, he is still young in years. If he doesn’t sit below, who should sit below?”

The two men turned around and bowed together: “Minister Wen!” Lu Yun focused his gaze and saw a group of people approaching in the corridor. The leader held a “jade ruyi” scepter and wore an official hat that seemed official yet not official, civilian yet not civilian. The hat’s center was embroidered with seal script reading: “Small Under Heaven.” Ximen Song quickly said: “Not knowing Minister Wen had arrived, this is failing to welcome you from afar.”

That “Minister Wen” snorted coldly and ignored him. Ximen Song smiled obsequiously: “Minister Wen is advanced in years and virtue, with great prestige in the court. But I wonder which prince has such great face as to invite you out?”

Upon hearing this, the entire group snorted and looked displeased, apparently this remark had violated some taboo. Minister Zheng quickly said: “Brother Ximen, our Minister Wen has come this time under imperial decree to judge victory and defeat for the princes. How could it be about private relationships with princes?” Ximen Song was greatly shocked: “Aiya, look at me, a country bumpkin who causes trouble as soon as I open my mouth!”

Lu Yun listened and thought: “Yes, these are people from Jade Emperor Temple, who specialize in imperial sacrificial ceremonies.”

On Mount Tai there is a Jade Emperor Temple. The first plaque at its entrance bears Confucius’s words “Climbing Mount Tai makes the world seem small,” and another hangs poetry by Du Fu: “I shall reach the summit to see all mountains small.” This temple has ancient origins and once dominated the martial world in its glory days. It’s said to have specialized in grand sacrificial ceremonies for the court. However, the Jingtai Dynasty rarely held such elaborate ceremonial functions, so its influence was not as great as before. Unexpectedly, in the Zhengtong Dynasty, it had again received favor and prominence.

With martial competitions comes victory and defeat, and with victory and defeat comes the need for fair judges. Seeing Minister Wen’s righteous expression, Ximen Song naturally didn’t dare say more, smiled obsequiously a few times, and seeing several more tiger-skin chairs below the golden platform, asked: “Minister Zheng, what about those five tiger chairs below? Who are they for?”

Minister Zheng was about to examine the paper when Minister Wen said: “Young man, those are seats for tributary nations – Korea, Annam, the Three Qi Buddhist Kingdom, Mongolia, and one more is for Tiebie…” Ximen Song quickly said: “Could it be Prince Karachi of the Timurid Khanate?” Minister Wen made an “oh” sound: “You’re quite knowledgeable!” Ximen Song smiled obsequiously: “I dare not, I dare not – just showing off a little.”

Hearing this, Lu Yun couldn’t help but take a deep breath, thinking: “It seems Princess Yinchuan will also appear today.” Just as he was thinking, he heard Minister Wen say: “Minister Zheng, go notify the relevant personnel to immediately proceed to the Great Buddha Hall for discussion. After the literary examination, it will be our turn to take the stage.” Minister Zheng repeatedly agreed, gave Ximen Song a meaningful look, and departed together.

Lu Yun waited in the corridor and saw distinguished guests gathering like clouds in the plaza. From the Son of Heaven and Empress above, down to the five great tributary nations, the eight princely heirs, and the important ministers of the court both inside and outside – everyone would appear and take the stage momentarily. Perhaps even the next emperor would be decided here. Speaking of it, he too could be said to be personally witnessing this grand occasion.

Just as he was watching, he suddenly heard command calls from the plaza. Surrounded by soldiers, a great general walked up to the golden platform and lit the incense burner. Looking at that person – imposing and heroic, with a face like polished jade and a height of at least ten feet – it was indeed You Tianding whom he had seen earlier. Lu Yun sighed inwardly: “How fortunate that the court can find such talented people. Without such handsome bearing, who could shoulder the dignity of the Celestial Dynasty?”

The rise and fall of a dynasty can be discerned from its gatekeepers alone. In former years, Lu Guzhan was called “one in ten thousand” – refined and elegant, yet also tall and imposing, so he was selected as the gatekeeper of Furious Cang. In the Jingtai Dynasty, there was also Gong Zhengyi managing the Imperial Guards. Now with the dynasty changed, this palace gate was entrusted to You Tianding’s care. In terms of dignity alone, he surpassed Lu Guzhan and Gong Zhengyi, certainly not inferior to either. Even Lu Yun himself, compared to him, would probably feel ashamed of his appearance.

They say the Zhengtong Dynasty lacks the Mandate of Heaven. Though there have been the Furious Cang rebellion and drought disasters, at least there are fewer treacherous ministers causing harm. Otherwise, if that Jiang Chong were still in power, how could heroes from the mountains and peaks come to surrender? And where would there be room for such heroic figures to serve the court?

Just as he was sighing with emotion, he heard exclamations behind him: “Good heavens, who is that fellow on the eastern platform? The Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King descended to earth?”

Lu Yun turned to look and saw it was Ximen Song again, but beside him was no longer that “Minister Zheng” but several guests. Everyone gazed toward the golden platform and, seeing You Tianding’s bearing, couldn’t help but click their tongues in amazement. But that Ximen Song was no longer seeking information – now he had become the one providing it. He heard him laugh quietly: “What Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King? This fellow’s nickname is ‘Crooked-Mouth You,’ also called ‘Rolling All Over.’ In a moment, you’ll see through his true face!”

Lu Yun was slightly stunned, not knowing what the three characters “Crooked-Mouth You” meant. Just as he wanted to hear more, he suddenly saw You Tianding stand up and shout sternly: “Seize that fellow!” With this command, a row of soldiers rushed out from the plaza, shouting: “Stop!”

Ximen Song and the others, having brought disaster upon themselves with their loose tongues, were greatly alarmed and quickly hid. Poor Lu Yun stood there dumbfounded, watching as masses of soldiers came flying toward him, not knowing whether to fight or flee, when he heard a “thud” and someone fell beside Lu Yun, already tackled by the soldiers. You Tianding rushed forward and shouted: “It’s you again! Yu Yushan!”

Lu Yun broke out in a cold sweat. Turning to look, he saw a man on the ground wearing official robes with a fifth-rank silver pheasant insignia on his chest – clearly a civil official, but struggling and roaring: “Release me! Release me! This official must see His Majesty!” You Tianding angrily said: “Yu Yushan! How many times must this official tell you? The Cabinet has given orders not to let you enter the temple! Go back quickly!” The official shouted loudly: “By what right is it forbidden? The country and state are in mortal danger! How can you treacherous ministers continue to deceive superiors and conceal from inferiors? Get lost! This official must see His Majesty today no matter what!”

You Tianding angrily said: “Surname Yu! What do you mean by ‘you treacherous ministers’? Speak clearly! Who in the court is a treacherous minister? Those surnamed Yang, Wu, Zhao, or Sun – quickly name someone! This official will immediately report it for you!”

“Surname You!” That civil official flew into a rage and desperately tried to push You Tianding, but this man was so tall and large that it was like the Foolish Old Man trying to move mountains – no matter how he pushed, he couldn’t budge him. Just as things were getting heated, a soldier hurriedly came to report: “General, Prince Xu has arrived.”

“Quick, quick, quick! Quickly drag this fellow away!” You Tianding urgently ordered, then ran back to the side of the imperial platform with his arms crossed. The others also took their positions as a soldier shouted: “Prince Xu arrives!”

Gong sounds rang out, and a retainer emerged from the hall entrance, announcing loudly: “Where is the Commander of the Imperial Guards?” With a resounding thud, a fourth-rank divine general stood out from below the mountain gate – towering, lofty, handsome, and imposing – and said calmly: “You Tianding is here to respectfully welcome Prince Xu’s grand procession.”

As soon as these words were spoken, the sound of clanking iron armor filled all directions as heavy soldiers respectfully welcomed them, saying in unison: “We pay respects to Your Highness and Your Highness’s consort!” Music of reed pipes and orchestral instruments sounded from the hall entrance, playing “Northern Zheng Palace.” Lu Yun focused his gaze and saw a large fat man emerge from the hall entrance – it was indeed Prince Xu, Zhu He, with a woman following beside him, none other than Shu Ning whom he had seen at noon.

When Prince Xu and his consort appeared, dozens of people suddenly rushed out from the plaza, shouting: “Your Highness! We’ve missed you so much!” and “Your Highness, we wish you success!” The entire venue was in an uproar as everyone paid their respects to Prince Xu. The prince was in excellent spirits, raising his hand in acknowledgment and laughing: “Good! Everyone is well! This prince wishes everyone a belated happy New Year!”

Prince Xu walked with light steps, looking up and laughing heartily with great momentum, but Shu Ning still wore a gloomy expression. Lu Yun observed carefully and saw that her face was covered with thick white powder, concealing the bruising at the corner of her mouth. He couldn’t help but shake his head: “That child A’Xiu really doesn’t know her own strength.”

Before he finished shaking his head, another retainer approached, carrying a male child in his arms – it was the heir Zai Jing. Looking at this child with bandages around his forehead revealing bloodstains, it was undoubtedly another masterpiece of A’Xiu’s.

As the saying goes: “Elder sisters-in-law are fiercer than mothers-in-law, younger sisters-in-law rival King Yama.” Yang Suguan also had many female cousins, each more fierce than the last. Who would have expected A’Xiu to punch southern mountain tigers and kick northern sea dragons? During the Yang family banquet, seeing Shu Ning and her son humiliate Gu Qianxi, she had already gone into a wild rage. Not only did she beat Shu Ning, but she also picked up a stool to smash it against Zai Jing’s forehead. Fortunately, Lu Yun was hiding outside the room and, seeing the situation was wrong, immediately shot out a copper coin to shatter the stool. Otherwise, if it had truly struck home, wouldn’t this young and frail Zai Jing have lost his life?

Looking at Zai Jing unconscious and unresponsive, his injuries seemed serious. By Shu Ning’s feet followed another small one – presumably the second son Zai Xin. As mother and sons walked into the plaza, Zai Xin suddenly caught sight of You Tianding and couldn’t help but be startled, quickly saying: “Mother-consort, who is this person? He’s so tall.”

A nearby retainer quickly said: “This person is Commander You, the foremost handsome man of the Zhengtong Dynasty.” Hearing the words “handsome man,” Shu Ning felt somewhat curious and turned to look. Suddenly seeing You Tianding, she couldn’t help but cry out in alarm and quickly fled behind her husband.

Before her stood a person with a crooked mouth and slanted eyes, hunched and bent over, indescribably ugly and strange, with saliva flowing horizontally as he smiled foolishly at her, like a brothel keeper blocking the way. Shu Ning was frightened and disgusted, never expecting that the court’s foremost handsome man would actually look like a demon. Lu Yun was also stunned: “What… what happened here? Did he twist his mouth?”

Shu Ning broke out in a cold sweat and quickly fled into her family’s tent, her white powder falling off her face. She took out a small bronze mirror to reapply her makeup when she suddenly saw clearly in the mirror a handsome man standing there – tall in stature, a head and a half taller than her husband, both dignified and handsome. Who could it be but You Tianding from just now?

Shu Ning was completely bewildered. Looking back, Prince Xu was furious in his heart, not knowing which man his wife had taken a fancy to this time. He immediately turned around forcefully, only to see a crooked-mouthed man smiling obsequiously there. Prince Xu’s heart relaxed, and he said: “You Tianding.”

“This subordinate is here!” You Tianding smiled crookedly with great excitement. Prince Xu secretly praised him in his heart, knowing this person was loyal and upright and could certainly be put to important use in the future. Stroking his beard, he laughed: “All things are determined by Heaven. With you, You Tianding, here, this prince has no worries.” Lu Yun watched with wide eyes and mouth agape, but also guessed why this “Crooked-Mouth You’s” mouth was crooked.

“In office one should become Commander of the Imperial Guards; in marriage one should wed Yin Lihua” – the Imperial Guards were an old institution of the court. It’s said that when Emperor Guangwu of Han was young and saw the Imperial Guard procession, he was filled with longing and spoke these two lines, showing the status of this military force. Unfortunately, the world changes like vast seas becoming mulberry fields. Ever since the former commander Gong Zhengyi was tightly embraced by Consort Li, the entire Imperial Guard was scared out of their wits. Whenever palace beauties approached, some would jump into water, others would crash into walls, all fearing they might become the man in some beauty’s heart and inevitably be implicated in the execution of nine generations.

Precisely because the forbidden palace was fraught with crises, the “Imperial Guards” gradually lost their value. Heroes throughout the land viewed it as a dangerous path, thus making way for this person. His surname was “You,” nicknamed “Crooked Mouth,” and precisely because of his crooked mouth and slanted eyes, he ascended to the commander’s throne of the “Imperial Guards” and has held the position ever since.

“Crooked-Mouth You” was true to his name – crooked mouth and slanted eyes. Whenever palace concubines passed by, he would twist his mouth and grin foolishly, detested by all who saw him. However, though the palace beauties were intelligent, none knew this was fake. In reality, “Crooked-Mouth You’s” mouth wasn’t crooked at all, and his eyes weren’t slanted in the least. This person had been handsome and beautiful since childhood – single phoenix eyes, cloud-like sword brows. Standing at the front of Fengtian Gate, both fair-faced and jade-pure, like the Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King descended to earth. Even foreign kings and nobles praised him upon seeing him. Otherwise, how could Emperor Zhengtong have assigned him to guard the palace gates for the country’s dignity?

Unfortunately, no matter how handsome and upright You Tianding was, only men could see him – not a single woman had ever seen his true face. Whenever palace beauties approached, Commander You would immediately twist his mouth and slant his eyes, and even roll around on the ground, appearing more pathetic than a good-for-nothing. The beauties would flee in horror while also bestowing upon him another nickname: “Rolling All Over.”

Whether “Rolling All Over” or “Jade-Faced You,” it was all fake – only Prince Xu’s middle-aged corpulence was real. Looking at him with his big belly, full moon face, and double chin, he quite resembled a big-bellied hungry ghost. Standing next to You Tianding, he looked like someone carrying a chamber pot. Poor You Tianding – if he didn’t sway and stumble, rolling all over the place, what could he do?

Watching You Tianding with his crooked mouth and slanted eyes, appearing like a cripple, Prince Xu laughed heartily and was about to offer some praise when he heard a Buddhist chant from the plaza: “Buddha is merciful.” Looking back, he saw a group of monks walking down from the Great Buddha Hall. The lead monk held prayer beads and was chanting with lowered head. Prince Xu exclaimed in delight: “Master Fa Yin has personally come to welcome us? How can we be worthy of this!”

Lu Yun thought: “It seems the abbot of Hongluo Temple has come.” Focusing his gaze, he saw this “Master Fa Yin” was about fifty years old, with a high-bridged nose, slanted flying sword-brows, and slightly thin cheeks – also an extremely handsome figure.

Lu Yun was slightly surprised. Looking at this Zhengtong Dynasty, he didn’t know why they specialized in using such distinguished figures. Compared to the former Jingtai Dynasty, they were more than a hundred times more respectable in appearance. Just as he was watching, this Fa Yin monk had already walked to the tent area. Suddenly seeing Lu Yun standing in the front corridor, he seemed startled, quickly lowered his head with palms together, and turned to walk toward Prince Xu. Lu Yun was again surprised, thinking silently: “Does this person recognize me?”

Lu Yun had always had a photographic memory. Even meeting someone just once, even people he’d seen ten years ago like Su Ying or the defrocked monk Ling Zhi, he could recognize as familiar. But this “Fa Yin monk” was definitely unfamiliar, so why did he avoid him? Just as he was pondering, Prince Xu had already stepped forward to exchange pleasantries, but that “Fa Yin” also bypassed Prince Xu, put his palms together, and announced loudly: “Amitabha! Poor monk Fa Yin leads our temple’s assembly to respectfully welcome the holy monk’s jade feet!”

Hearing the words “holy monk,” Prince Xu couldn’t help but be stunned, but Shu Ning tugged at his sleeve and whispered in his ear: “Still standing there? Your son’s master has arrived.” Prince Xu made an “ah” sound and only then turned toward the hall entrance. Lu Yun was puzzled, not knowing what other eminent figure had arrived. Just as he was wondering, he heard Fa Yin announce: “Above the three realms, there is no named dharma; among the six paths, there is no permanent dharma. Ling Ding Buddhist Kingdom, Original Vow Mountain.”

As soon as the two characters “Ling Ding” were spoken, Lu Yun also awakened in his heart. He heard a “clang” as a golden gong sounded, and two rows of warrior monks emerged from the Heavenly King Hall, forming two lines. All around, Buddhist chanting arose: “Taking refuge in all the ten directions, supreme karma, omniscient, colorless, unobstructed, autonomous savior, great compassionate one. And that body-form, dharma-nature, true suchness sea.”

The Buddhist chanting was precisely from the “Treatise on the Awakening of Faith in the Mahayana.” In the midst of solemn dignity, a high monk emerged from the Mountain Gate Hall – treasure-light kasaya, white temples flowing – it was the current Shaolin Abbot, Master Ling Ding.

The Shaolin Abbot arrived at Hongluo, with Prince Xu accompanying at his side, holding an umbrella to shield from snow. The Imperial Guard Commander also followed step by step, leading the way in front, while Hongluo Temple monks respectfully bowed in worship, as if conducting a Lotus Pond Dharma Assembly. Lu Yun thought: “Looking at Master Ling Ding’s grand ceremony, I’m afraid even the former divine monk Tianjue couldn’t have surpassed it.”

The Zhengtong Dynasty called itself the “Great Buddhist Kingdom,” and Yang Suguan was an important minister of the current dynasty, so Ling Ding’s status naturally rose with the tide. Lu Yun observed from the side and suddenly noticed that Ling Ding’s face also seemed to be covered with white powder, just like Shu Ning, all concealing bruises.

Lu Yun was greatly surprised. Looking at Shu Ning, who had been beaten by A’Xiu and inevitably had injuries beneath her powdered face, but with Ling Ding’s martial arts skills, who could have beaten him? Thinking it over, he suddenly understood: “Yes, that barefoot giant at Wanfu Tower last night was him.”

Last night at Wanfu Tower, a fierce battle saw the Nation-Protecting Iron Guards advance with full force, determined to recapture the “Karmic Fire Devil Blade.” Among them was a barefoot giant, demonic in form, who beat Zhe’er Dan until he had no power to resist – apparently this was Abbot Ling Ding. Who would have thought that by day he played the divine monk, by night he acted the demon – one person playing two roles, keeping quite busy indeed.

Just as he found this amusing, Ling Ding suddenly glanced sideways, seeming to see him. Lu Yun was startled and was about to retreat to the corridor when suddenly another person rushed out from the plaza, shouting: “Humble official Yu Sheng! Paying respects to Your Highness, Abbot, and Master Host!”

Everyone was startled and turned to look, seeing a man kneeling on the ground with a fifth-rank silver pheasant insignia on his chest – it was that civil official surnamed Yu from earlier. Ling Ding was stunned: “This benefactor is…” The civil official said: “This humble official is surnamed Yu, formerly serving as Right Provincial Administration Commissioner of Shaanxi, transferred to the capital at the beginning of the year and promoted to fifth-rank Director of the Shaanxi Bureau of the Ministry of Revenue.” Ling Ding and Prince Xu exchanged glances, both bewildered in their hearts, not knowing how to respond, when they heard Shu Ning say: “Could this Minister Yu be the Yushan Scholar from Jiangxi?”

Yu Yushan was delighted and quickly said: “Your Highness’s consort is too kind. This humble official is indeed Yu Yushan.”

Seeing his wife’s wide social connections and omniscience, Prince Xu was displeased. He quickly blocked in front of the woman and said sternly: “So it’s Scholar Yushan. This prince has also long admired you. But may we know what great matter you have?”

Yu Yushan kowtowed: “This humble official dares to plead for the lives of the northwestern people!”

Ling Ding was shocked in his heart, Fa Yin also lowered his head and coughed violently. Looking at Shu Ning, she had already gone into the tent to look in her mirror, out of sight, out of mind. But Prince Xu, not knowing better, nodded: “Minister Yu’s wholehearted concern for the people is also greatly admired by this prince. Whatever memorial you have, just bring it forth…” Just as he was about to continue, Ling Ding took hold of his sleeve and said: “Your Highness, this old monk would like to introduce you to several eminent figures. This Master Fa Yin is currently the foremost high monk of the Pure Land world. Beside him are several masters – Fa Yin, Fa Hong, Fa Ci…”

Seeing Ling Ding change the subject, Yu Yushan refused to give up and shouted loudly: “Abbot, Your Highness! Please listen to this humble minister’s words! Currently the northwest suffers great disaster and drought! Though it’s said that Heaven and Earth are not benevolent, looking at the court above and prefectures and circuits below, is there no shame? Now the northwest is littered with starving corpses, and all living beings have fallen into the hell realm and hungry ghost realm, yet the capital is filled with singing and dancing, wine pools and meat forests. This is all because the rich get richer throughout the realm, while the northwest poor get poorer…”

As he spoke, he took a memorial from his robes and shouted: “This memorial chapter was written at the risk of my life, but the Supervising Secretary refuses to accept it, telling me to send it to the Cabinet. When I went to the Cabinet, they told me to send it to the Censorate. When I went to the Censorate, they told me to send it back to the Supervising Secretary. Your Highness, Masters, though Heaven above may lack benevolent virtue, what about you? Can you bear to see the northwestern people…”

As he was speaking passionately, both feet left the ground as You Tianding and others carried him away. His voice gradually faded until it disappeared completely.

Prince Xu stood dazed for a long while, murmuring: “Master, what… what were you just saying?” Ling Ding quickly said: “I was saying this is Host Fa Yin. Beside him are Masters Fa Yin, Fa Hong, and Fa Ci – all enlightened high monks who universally save all living beings.”

Prince Xu came to his senses and quickly said: “Long admired, long admired! This prince has some incense money here – not much, but a token of respect.” He spoke while taking out an ingot, intending to give it as incense money, but Fa Yin turned away and addressed Shu Ning: “Amitabha! It’s been long since we’ve seen the female lay practitioner. Last month’s thousand-person sutra copying and prayer blessing – you put forth great effort. Your merit is immeasurable.” Prince Xu was somewhat surprised and quickly asked his wife: “You… you know them?”

Shu Ning ignored her husband and put her palms together, saying: “Copying sutras and praying for blessings – first to extend His Majesty’s life, second to pray for rain for the country – these are the most important matters under Heaven. Though this woman is female, she dares not fall behind others. Why should the masters speak of gratitude?” The monks all returned the courtesy together: “Amitabha! Excellent, excellent! The princess consort has a compassionate heart – fortunate for the realm, fortunate for the people.”

Looking at Prince Xu, who normally didn’t burn incense but clutched Buddha’s feet in times of need, trying to buy people’s hearts with a broken ingot – he inevitably looked down upon Hongluo Temple. Now he was left out in the cold, while the princess consort had already cultivated relationships everywhere, naturally enjoying excellent connections. Lu Yun observed coldly and thought: “Look at this Prince Xu – he has great ambitions but little talent. If his son wants to enter the Eastern Palace, he’ll definitely have to look to his mother’s actions.”

This Shu Ning was Yang Suguan’s cousin, equivalent to having the “Nation-Protecting Iron Guards” as backing. Relying on her cousin’s power, she naturally formed cliques and alliances in officialdom, meeting with success everywhere. Now that Ling Ding had accepted her son as a disciple, he was clearly looking at Yang Suguan’s face, having nothing to do with Prince Xu.

The wind and snow were heavy, and after everyone had spoken a few words, they all felt cold. Yet Zai Jing remained unconscious. Fa Hong frowned: “What’s wrong with the heir? Is he uncomfortable somewhere?” Upon hearing this, Shu Ning immediately burst into tears, choking: “He… he fell and was injured.”

The monks urgently asked: “How could he fall and get injured when everything was fine?” Shu Ning sobbed and trembled, apparently having some unspeakable difficulty. Fa Ci quickly said: “This is most unfortunate! His Majesty will summon the eight heirs tonight, probably for literary competitions and martial contests. Now that the heir is injured, what can be done?” Prince Xu was indignant and shouted loudly: “Injured this badly and still competing in martial arts? What comparison? Masters! If my son suffers any mishap, you must uphold justice! Make Yang Suguan pay with his life for my son!”

Hearing that this matter involved Yang Suguan, everyone looked at each other in bewilderment. Prince Xu was furious and was about to explain what happened when Shu Ning tugged at his sleeve and whispered: “Say less. The one who injured Zai Jing was that wild child, not my cousin Suguan.”

Prince Xu’s anger surged upward and he shouted loudly: “Your son is injured like that and you’re still speaking for that surname Yang? Are you still fit to be a mother?”

These words were too harsh. Ling Ding quickly said: “Amitabha! This matter has nothing to do with my junior brother Yang’s family. It’s all this old monk’s fault. In a moment, when my junior brother Ling Yin arrives, with his decades of acupuncture skills, he can certainly work miracles.”

These words served to resolve the situation for Yang Suguan. Everyone present repeatedly agreed, but Prince Xu wouldn’t buy it, shouting loudly: “What? Left hand strikes, right hand heals – now it has nothing to do with Yang Suguan? Master! Which side are you really on?”

Everyone secretly found this amusing, all thinking Prince Xu was utterly confused. His backing was precisely Yang Suguan – eating at the Yang family, drinking at the Yang family – how could he not forget to curse the Yang family? If he really cursed down Yang Suguan, who could his son rely on in the future? Lu Yun saw this and also secretly shook his head. He sighed several times and left the corridor.

After walking only a few steps, he suddenly saw a paper bag on a flower platform. Reaching out to pick it up, he saw the paper bag contained a memorial. In an instant, his heart awakened – he knew this was the petition from the Ministry of Revenue Director “Yu Yushan” from earlier. Presumably it had been confiscated by soldiers and carelessly thrown here. Lu Yun pondered for a long while, thinking: “So be it. Since the Supervising Secretary won’t accept his memorial and the Cabinet won’t forward it either, let Lord Lu present it for him.”

Lu Yun was, after all, a Confucian scholar who had always taken the realm as his responsibility. Moreover, he currently held no official position – the Cabinet couldn’t control him, and the Supervising Secretary couldn’t stop him. With his martial arts skills, things he hadn’t dared think about or do in the past had now become as easy as turning his hand.

Official seas and future prospects again excluded Lu Yun. Tucking the paper bag into his robes, for a moment his body felt slightly warm, as if he had become that passionate scholar of years past. The various torments and hardships of ten years seemed to count for nothing at this moment.

Lu Yun’s steps were somewhat excited. He only wanted to see where the emperor was so he could deliver the memorial. Walking along the long corridor, turning past the side of the hall, he came to a downward slope. Walking down casually, he saw another large open space. Looking around, he saw official palanquins and mounts everywhere – this was where carriages and horses were stationed. Across the open space was another building marked “Cloud Meeting Tea Hall.”

Lu Yun was delighted, knowing he had come to the right place. Looking at guests from all directions who had driven up the mountain and needed to rest here, if he wanted to search for traces of Gu Qianxi, this was the place.

With Gu Qianxi appearing, even His Imperial Majesty would have to step aside. Lu Yun hurried into the open space, wanting to search for Gu Qianxi’s carriage. He began examining sedan chairs one by one. Just as he was busy, he suddenly heard snorting sounds. Turning to look, he saw a blue-green horse tethered at the edge of the open space – wasn’t this the same one he’d seen at the mountain gate earlier?

Thinking of the strange incident in the grass, Lu Yun felt somewhat alert. He walked closer two steps and saw that the “Ten Thousand Treasures Great Silver House” hemp sack was gone – presumably someone had taken it. Reaching out to touch the saddle, it still had residual warmth – clearly the owner was nearby.

Lu Yun felt a chill in his heart and immediately looked around, wanting to see what background this horse’s owner had and why everything seemed so strange. Suddenly he shook his head and smiled, thinking to himself: “Lu Yun, Lu Yun, aren’t you meddling in enough affairs? You won’t even let such small matters go?” He no longer thought much about it, just circled among the carriages once. Seeing that Gu Qianxi indeed hadn’t arrived yet, he turned toward the tea hall.

This “Cloud Meeting Tea Hall” was a place for the temple to receive pilgrims from all directions. It should have been a quiet Buddhist place, but coming to the entrance, he saw the ground was full of stalls – selling incense and candles, selling Buddhist scriptures, selling paper money and vegetarian fruits – all taking pilgrims’ money. Lu Yun couldn’t help but find it amusing. Shaking his head, he walked into the tea hall himself when someone approached and said: “Sir, what would you like to eat?”

Lu Yun put his palms together and bowed respectfully: “Master, do you serve vegetarian meals, or…” That person said: “Benefactor misunderstands. This humble person is a tea master, not a monk. It’s just that my pastries are well-made, so the court has allowed me to sell tea here to entertain the distinguished guests coming and going at the temple today.” Lu Yun nodded and said: “What do you have here?”

The tea master said: “Our tea and snacks are delicious – Longjing, jasmine, Biluochun tea varieties are all-encompassing; peach pastries, sweet cakes, and water chestnut refreshers – everything you could want. What would you like?” Lu Yun heard this tea master composing couplets and also laughed: “How much for a pot of tea?”

As the saying goes, “one doesn’t gain wisdom without experiencing something.” Having had the experience at Wanfu Tower last night, Lu Yun had also learned to be smart. He was waiting to hear about “imperial tea” and “heavenly maiden prices” when he heard the tea master say: “One wen. Drinking tea also comes with a free plate of purple wisteria ginger cookies – no charge.”

Lu Yun’s mouth fell open and he quickly said: “Come, come, one pot then.” Fearing the man might change his mind, he hurriedly took out a copper coin. The tea master also said: “Don’t rush, sir. Our shop only collects payment after you’ve finished.” As he spoke, he poured a cup of hot tea and brought it before him.

When a country is about to fall, prices in the capital are like robbery. Who would have expected that after leaving the city, it seemed like returning to the Jingtai Dynasty? Lu Yun smiled slightly, drank a sip of hot tea, then leaned back against his chair to watch the flying snow outside the shop, thinking about his own concerns.

All along, he had thought Yang and Gu were a match made in heaven. Who would have expected that today, lurking at the Yang residence, he would see that Gu Qianxi not only had a strange uncle-in-law Yang Shaoqi, but also a large group of unscrupulous relatives? A single lunch banquet had actually led to A’Xiu fighting with the guests. Thinking of Gu Qianxi’s tears, Lu Yun sighed slightly and thought again: “What exactly is Yang Suguan thinking? Does he really want to drive A’Xiu out of the family?”

A’Xiu was a spirited child, but Yang Suguan was a cold person. When A’Xiu and Zai Jing fought, as soon as he entered the hall, he gave both sides fifty strokes and finally drove A’Xiu away. Looking at his words and actions, how was this like disciplining a ten-year-old child? It was more like a court hearing a case.

According to what that “Miss Qi” had said, Yang Suguan was indeed the culprit who killed Liu Angtian, while A’Xiu was the Grand Commander’s son. Between them lay a blood feud deep as the sea. But strangely, if Yang Suguan truly feared A’Xiu’s revenge, why had he raised him to adulthood? Could it be that he knew he had wronged Liu Angtian and wanted to atone through this?

Who could know? Yang Suguan had always kept his thoughts extremely hidden, just like during the restoration coup years ago – no one expected that at the final moment, he would never reveal a word. Lu Yun sighed and was shaking his head when he suddenly remembered something: “Right! How did Qianxi say she was coming to see A’Xiu’s birth mother? Could it be… could it be…” His heart stirred and he couldn’t help but take a deep breath: “Is Seventh Madam still alive?”

During the chaos at the Yang residence, A’Xiu and Gu Qianxi had successively left home. Lu Yun couldn’t be in two places at once, so he had asked Jin Teng to go after A’Xiu while he himself disguised as a carriage driver and led her onto the cart, protecting her secretly all the way. Along the road, he had heard her mention to Qiong Fang that she wanted to come to Hongluo Temple to see A’Xiu’s birth mother, which couldn’t help but greatly surprise Lu Yun.

A’Xiu’s birth mother was none other than Liu Angtian’s concubine, Seventh Madam. That year by the Yongding River, after a chase and killing, he had thought she was dead. But hearing Gu Qianxi mention this, she seemed to be perfectly alive and even living in this Hongluo Temple?

That wasn’t right. If Seventh Madam were still alive, Wei Zizhuang would certainly know. But last night when he met with him and personally inquired, he hadn’t heard of anyone else surviving. Could it be that Gu Qianxi had spoken incorrectly, or that Wei Zizhuang had concealed this from him?

Once he started investigating these matters, they were truly filled with doubts and mysteries. Lu Yun sat restlessly, but Gu Qianxi still hadn’t appeared, so there was no one to ask. Just as he sat brooding, the tea master brought over some snacks – a plate of ginger cookies.

From last night until now, he still hadn’t eaten. Lu Yun was naturally hungry, so he cast aside all his worries and picked up a cookie to take a light bite.

These ginger cookies were sprinkled with purple wisteria flowers, naturally fragrant, and baked crispy. One bite filled his mouth with sweet refreshment and unique flavor. Lu Yun ate with pleasure, thinking that this thing cost only one wen and feeling exceptionally good. He ate one bite, then another, not forgetting to gaze out the window at the snowy scenery while waiting for his beloved to arrive by carriage.

Since returning to the capital, this was his most leisurely moment. Those who should come had come, those who should marry had married, those who wanted to rebel had all rebelled, those who wanted restoration had all restored. The great situation of the realm was settled, and his own destiny had also emerged. At this point in life, there was no need to worry much about anything. Anyway, living one day at a time, stealing half a day of leisure from this floating life. Whether future days brought life or death, he would eat his fill first before deciding.

Outside the window, snowflakes fell suddenly, covering the earth in silver white. Lu Yun watched and suddenly felt poetic inspiration, saying: “What do these falling white snowflakes resemble?”

Today’s heavy snowfall reminded Lu Yun of the Eastern Jin story of Xie An appreciating snow. But at this moment, with nothing to do and surrounded by fierce warriors, no one would join in the fun to answer him. He gazed out the window and murmured softly to himself: “They could be compared to salt scattered in the air.” Just as he was about to lower his head to drink tea, he heard light footsteps behind him and a gentle voice: “More like willow catkins rising in the wind.”

Lu Yun was startled and nearly spat out his tea. Turning to look, he saw a gentle, beautiful woman entering from outside the shop, accompanied by two maidservants. When the woman saw Lu Yun looking at her, she smiled and curtsied, then turned and walked up the stairs.

These lines came from “A New Account of Tales of the World.” At that time, Xie An’s family was appreciating snow. Because snow was flying all over the sky, Xie An felt inspired and asked: “What do these falling white snowflakes resemble?” The next line was from Xie An’s nephew’s crude response: “They could be compared to salt scattered in the air” – vulgar and unrefined, completely lacking in elegance. His niece immediately improved it on the spot: “More like willow catkins flying in the wind.”

Lu Yun stared blankly at that beautiful woman, seeing a tea master leading her to a second-floor private room. She appeared to be a woman of status, but he didn’t know her background. Just as he was staring blankly, he heard someone at a nearby table discussing in low voices: “That woman must be ‘Yuning,’ right?”

Hearing the name “Yuning,” Lu Yun’s heart stirred slightly, feeling he had heard it somewhere before. He turned to look at the speaker, whose gaze was still fixated on the beautiful woman’s retreating figure. Looking at his table, he saw a sword with a narrow, long design – clearly from Mount Emei. Another person was a blade wielder who laughed: “Look at you, you sentimental fellow. Do you really want to become a prince consort?”

That swordsman chuckled: “Why not? With my martial arts skills famous throughout the southwest and being unmarried, am I not qualified?” Hearing the words “prince consort,” Lu Yun couldn’t help but be secretly amazed, thinking: “Is this girl… is she Emperor Zhengtong’s daughter?”

All under Heaven knew that Emperor Zhengtong had no male heirs. If this woman were truly the current Son of Heaven’s precious daughter, she would have thousands of retainers following her – how could she be allowed to drink tea here? Just as he was puzzled, he heard the swordsman whisper: “Speaking seriously, has this Princess Yuning actually married or not?” The blade wielder said: “You’d have to ask Master Ximen – he’s the one with all the information.”

Hearing the name Ximen, Lu Yun couldn’t help but cough. Turning to look, he indeed saw a fat man with a folding fan – it was indeed that long-tongued Ximen Song. He couldn’t help but smile bitterly to himself: “This is what they call ‘where in life do we not meet again.'”

Hearing everyone calling “princess” on the left and “princess” on the right endlessly, Ximen Song scolded in a low voice: “Stop your wishful thinking about princesses! You can’t even call her by those two words ‘princess.'” Everyone quickly asked: “Why is this? Isn’t Yuning a princess? Why can’t we call her that?” Ximen Song said: “Whose daughter is Yuning?”

The swordsman said bewilderedly: “Isn’t this princess… isn’t she His Majesty’s daughter…” Ximen Song said coldly: “Which majesty?” Everyone made “ah” sounds and all shut their mouths. Ximen Song scolded in a low voice: “Understand now? Emperor Jingtai has been demoted to Prince Cheng – is she still a princess? At most she’s just a ‘commandery princess.'”

Hearing this, Lu Yun’s eyes widened as he thought: “Yes! Yuning! Yuning! She’s Emperor Jingtai’s youngest daughter!”

Lu Yun remembered now. Years ago when protecting the emperor’s westward journey, Princess Yinchuan had personally told him that the reason she married into a foreign land was precisely to protect her younger sister “Princess Yuning.” She couldn’t bear for her sister to travel thousands of miles away from home at such a young age, so she sacrificed herself to marry into the Western Region Khanate.

Life is unpredictable. That year when Yinchuan married into a foreign land, the entire nation grieved. Who knew that later the court would experience upheaval, the new emperor would restore the throne, and Jingtai would be demoted to prince? Thus, the former princesses, princes, consorts, and crown princes all dropped three ranks, but only Yinchuan, having married far into the Western Region, was unaffected. Poor “Yuning” escaped that crisis but couldn’t escape this one. Now it was just like “the swallows that once graced the halls of Wang and Xie have flown into ordinary people’s homes” – she could be encountered drinking tea on the street.

Those martial artists, having heard this explanation, finally understood the seriousness. Princess and commandery princess seemed to differ by only one word, but the difference was vast as heaven and earth. If Yuning were a princess, wouldn’t Jingtai be the legitimate ruler of the realm? Wouldn’t thirty-odd years of scheming and usurpation become natural and justified? Therefore, this one mistaken shout would be equivalent to being remnants of Jiang Chong’s faction harboring loyalty to the old dynasty – probably doomed beyond redemption.

The swordsman sighed: “So that’s how it is. This means this prin… princess…” Seeing everyone glaring at him, he quickly corrected: “Commandery princess, Commandery Princess Yuning is still a maiden living alone?” Ximen Song said: “Even if she wanted to marry, probably no one would dare take her. In the first year of Zhengtong, His Majesty conceived the idea of issuing an edict commanding Prince Cheng’s consort to commit suicide for her husband, shocking the court and country.”

Everyone made “ah” sounds and said in unison: “The Ning Palace Case!” As soon as they spoke, they looked around nervously, their expressions showing some apprehension.

“Ning Palace” meant “remnant palace.” Lu Yun, hearing this suddenly, also felt his shoulders tremble slightly as he thought of Gu Siyuan.

The so-called “Remnant Palace Case” was about dispersing the concubines left behind after Jingtai’s death. At that time, Pei Ya had been vague about it. Who would have thought Emperor Zhengtong actually wanted to force the former dynasty’s empress to commit suicide, making her die for Prince Cheng? If even the dignified empress couldn’t protect herself, what about the others? No wonder from the concubines above down to the princesses below, everyone was terrified, living in constant fear, until the final moment when Gu Siyuan’s death in prison shook the court’s foundation and finally saved this group of orphans and weak women.

This little Princess Yuning before him was precisely what Gu Siyuan had exchanged his life for – trading his own death to redeem her.

Lu Yun’s eyes filled with tears as he looked up toward the second floor. Coincidentally, Princess Yuning sat in the second-floor private room with the window open, and her beautiful eyes seemed intentionally or unintentionally to glance toward Lu Yun’s table several times. Lu Yun made a surprised sound, feeling somewhat bewildered: “Is she… is she looking at me?” He gazed up intently, wanting to look more carefully, but the beautiful woman turned her head away, avoiding his gaze.

Lu Yun was quite compatible with the Jingtai family. Whether the emperor himself or his eldest daughter Yinchuan, once they met, he gained their favor. Unexpectedly, this youngest daughter also felt a sense of kinship upon seeing him. Looking carefully, he saw this “Princess Yuning” had refined, beautiful features. She both resembled her sister Yinchuan and had her own unique charm. Though the several guests knew she was a thorn in Emperor Zhengtong’s side, with such heavenly beauty before them, they couldn’t help but steal a few more glances.

Thinking of Gu Siyuan, Lu Yun’s heart warmed and he wanted to go upstairs to speak with the little princess. But having never met her before, how should he introduce himself? Should he say he was the top scholar of the Jingtai years who had answered her father’s riddles? Or that he was the proud disciple of her lifesaver Gu Siyuan?

Neither seemed appropriate. Though Lu Yun was like a free cloud and wild crane, his naturally reserved nature caused him many troubles. Seeing that the window remained open as if still waiting for him, he still didn’t dare presume to go over. For a long, long time, he finally bit his teeth: “I can’t help it. Princess Yinchuan may have already returned to the country – how can I not go inquire? This is a matter of national importance.”

For Uncle Gu’s sake, for the people of the realm, he absolutely could not, could not remain reserved any longer. Lu Yun stood up boldly, straightened his appearance slightly, and was just about to head upstairs when he suddenly heard a giggling laugh, with sounds coming from below the counter. Lu Yun was slightly stunned, not knowing who was laughing. Just as he was about to investigate, he suddenly heard light footsteps as if a woman had entered the shop. Lu Yun was shocked and quickly grabbed his large felt coat, put it over his head, and hurriedly sat back down.

Just as he was worried, a long-robed figure moved at the entrance, but it was a man entering the tea hall. Lu Yun greatly relaxed, thinking silently: “So it was a martial arts expert – really scared me to death.” The newcomer wasn’t a three-inch golden lotus but a lightness skill expert, no wonder his landing was so soft. Lu Yun focused his gaze and saw this person’s clothing was tattered. Though it was the depths of winter, he exposed most of his chest. Moreover, his face was covered with black mud and his whole body was filthy, like a beggar.

There are many experts in the world, including those who disguise themselves humbly. Years ago when he was in Yangzhou, he had encountered Lu Guzhan this way. But this beggar’s spirit seemed somewhat dejected. He walked into the shop, looked around, and slowly approached Lu Yun’s side as if to beg.

Hongluo Temple was a place of compassion, and Lu Yun was also very kind-hearted. He quickly took out a wen from his robes, just about to give it over, when he heard Ximen Song make a surprised sound: “Isn’t this Huo Tianlong? You’ve also come to Hongluo Temple?”

Hearing that this beggar actually had a name and was called “Huo Tianlong,” Lu Yun couldn’t help but be stunned. That beggar surnamed Huo slowly turned his head and sighed: “It’s you again, Ximen Song.” Looking at his bearing, he seemed to have considerable background. As soon as he spoke, several guests stood up: “Your Honor… Your Honor is Huo Tianlong?” The beggar sighed: “Genuine article, no substitutions – ‘Snake Spear’ Huo Tianlong, that’s me.”

The swordsman quickly said: “This humble one is Yan Bao, an Emei disciple. I’ve long admired Master Huo’s divine spear prowess.” He pointed to the blade wielder and introduced: “This gentleman surnamed Deng is the chief escort of Tongxi Great Escort Agency. Friends all call him ‘Deng Qiansui.'” The blade wielder quickly said: “What thousand years? Dare I say such words in Hongluo Temple? If Hero Huo would call me Boss Deng, that would be giving me enough face.”

Everyone exchanged greetings, but the beggar surnamed Huo wasn’t sociable. He just sat down, poured hot tea, and was about to drink when he heard Ximen Song whisper in his ear: “Young Master Huo, how goes the pursuit of the imperial criminal this time?”

The beggar surnamed Huo glanced at him sideways: “Lucky to have you – the information I bought from you with good money nearly cost me my life.” Ximen Song laughed dryly twice and hadn’t yet spoken when that swordsman surnamed Yan suddenly said: “Young Master Huo, where is your snake spear?” That Deng Qiansui also said: “Yes, the hundred-pace-piercing-yang snake fire spear is so famous – why not let us see it?”

This “Huo Tianlong” was raggedly dressed with empty hands. Forget about any fire spear – there wasn’t even a walking stick visible. But Yan Bao and Deng Qiansui were tactless and kept asking. Huo Tianlong laughed: “Want to see my fire spear?” With a bang, he slammed the table hard and shouted sternly: “Come! Let’s talk outside the shop – I’ll let you see enough!”

Yan Bao looked bewildered, and Deng Qiansui also made a surprised sound, both not knowing why he was angry. Just as they were about to ask for clarification, shouting came from outside the shop: “Young Master Huo, please walk slower!” Outside was a hubbub as a group of men poured in, led by a fat man. Everyone was in ragged clothes and disheveled hair – clearly all beggars without doubt.

Seeing more and more beggars, Lu Yun thought: “This is probably the Beggar Gang coming to beg at Hongluo Temple.”

Legend has it that during the invasions of the Liao, Jin, and Yuan dynasties, northern Han people were mostly displaced, leading to the establishment of “Beggar Gangs” and “Lotus Societies.” But after the founding emperor established the country and people had adequate food and clothing, beggars gradually disappeared from sight, and these organizations also vanished. Unexpectedly, a hundred years later, with drought and earth’s dryness, they had re-emerged in the martial world.

The crowd of beggars entered the hall boldly. Ximen Song didn’t drive them away but quickly said: “Isn’t this Fatty Zhang? Come, come, sit here.” The beggars weren’t polite and sat down directly. That “Fatty Zhang” didn’t forget to take a stool from Lu Yun’s table without even asking.

Lu Yun saw this fatty was well-nourished and quite corpulent, living quite comfortably. But at this moment he was disheveled and covered in mud – probably deliberately done. Indeed, Yan Bao was also puzzled: “What are you all doing? Everyone’s disguised as beggars? Is this some new fashion?” Fatty Zhang cursed: “Fashion your big head! I tell you, we’ve encountered a ghost!”

Deng Qiansui laughed: “What ghost? This is a Buddhist sacred ground – where would ghosts come from?” Fatty Zhang sighed bitterly several times and was about to reveal the truth when Huo Tianlong said: “Shut your beak. In broad daylight, don’t mention that person’s name – it’s forbidden.” Yan Bao made a surprised sound: “A forbidden name? Could it be Qin…” As soon as the character “Qin” was spoken, all four seats were alarmed. Lu Yun also paid attention. Fatty Zhang quickly covered that person’s mouth and scolded: “Didn’t you hear Hero Huo? Don’t mention that fellow’s name – aren’t you afraid he’ll jump out from behind you?”

“Ridiculous!” Yan Bao was young and reckless, not knowing better. He beat his chest and said: “If he really dares show himself, that would be perfect. This sword of mine isn’t just for decoration…” But as soon as he spoke, someone patted his shoulder. Yan Bao made a startled sound and was about to dive into Fatty Zhang’s arms when he heard the fatty say in surprise: “Hundred Herbs Elder! You’ve come too!”

Hearing the three words “Hundred Herbs Elder,” pilgrims all around turned their heads, and Lu Yun also focused his attention. He saw a small old man standing before him – short, slovenly, giggling and laughing, not very dignified, but his face was blue-green in color, like the Divine Farmer Emperor in temples. Lu Yun was slightly shocked, thinking silently: “There really is such a Hundred Herbs Elder in this world?”

Elders passed down that the Divine Farmer Emperor had a direct descendant who was this “Hundred Herbs Elder.” No one knew his real name, only that he was born with Divine Farmer’s abilities. Not only was he skilled in detoxification, but also good at gathering herbs. Any thousand-year lingzhi or human-shaped ginseng – as long as he went out, there was nothing he couldn’t find, so people respectfully called him “Hundred Herbs Elder.” But during the Jingtai period, his immortal traces were vague and unclear – no one had seen him. Unexpectedly, he appeared here.

With eight princes competing for the Eastern Palace, even hermits like the Hundred Herbs Elder had been invited out. Probably no one could stay out of it. For a moment, guests in the hall whispered to each other, and even Commandery Princess Yuning poked her head out the window, showing how famous this person was. But this little old man was giggling and laughing, not very dignified. Coming to Ximen Song’s table, he suddenly said: “Ah, isn’t this Fatty Zhang? Has your ailment been cured?”

Fatty Zhang said in surprise: “What ailment?” Hundred Herbs Elder said: “In public, it’s not good for me to speak plainly.”

Everyone’s faces contained smiles, and even Lu Yun understood. Commandery Princess Yuning closed her window, presumably nothing good would follow. Indeed, Fatty Zhang cursed loudly: “It’s cured! If it wasn’t cured, how could your mother have cried herself hoarse?” Hundred Herbs Elder angrily said: “Good! Twenty years ago when you came to Changbai Mountain begging for medicine, crying and kneeling, and now the first thing out of your mouth is this? I’ll screw your mother first!”

The two began using foul language, climbing upward all the way, cursing ancestors. Lu Yun had already expected this and wasn’t surprised, just lowered his head to drink tea. Yan Bao got annoyed listening and couldn’t help but interrupt: “Immortal Elder, don’t you usually live in seclusion beyond the passes? How did you also come to Hongluo Temple?” Hundred Herbs Elder chuckled and raised his chin: “What do you think? Why did I come out of the mountains?”

Ximen Song laughed: “Eight princes competing for the Eastern Palace – with Immortal Elder’s abilities, how could you stay idle?” Hundred Herbs Elder clapped his hands and laughed loudly, no longer avoiding suspicion. The guests at each table exchanged meaningful glances, apparently taking note. Fatty Zhang harbored resentment and sneered coldly: “What? With just your meager skills, you dare wade into the muddy waters of the eight princes? Aren’t you afraid someone will stab you?”

Hundred Herbs Elder mocked: “I don’t fire cold shots or kidnap children. With a clear conscience, my heart doesn’t race when doors are knocked at midnight – what is there to fear?”

Huo Tianlong was sitting peacefully to the side but was inexplicably insulted and said coldly: “Immortal Elder, stop being mysterious and speak up. Which prince have you befriended?”

Hundred Herbs Elder was very pleased and chuckled: “With imperial dragon offspring, what friendship could a common mortal like me speak of? But Prince Tang is generous with his spending and specially invited me out – this really makes this old man feel unworthy.”

Deng Qiansui laughed: “What? Prince Tang also asked you to buy medicine?” Hundred Herbs Elder sighed: “For this heir selection, Prince Tang really put his heart into it. He specially asked me to find an old mountain ginseng to present to His Majesty. For this ginseng, this old man went to heaven and earth, traveled through Goryeo and Jurchen territories, inside and outside the passes…” Just as he was speaking, Huo Tianlong suddenly said: “Hundred Herbs Elder, do you still make artificial ginseng at home these days?”

Hundred Herbs Elder was hit with a cold shot and his face naturally changed dramatically. He quickly said: “This… this is tribute for His Majesty. Where would I get the dog’s courage to make fakes? If you don’t believe me, I’ll show it to you later. That ginseng is truly extraordinary – head, ears, and limbs all complete. I carried it all the way back to the capital, still afraid it would be robbed.” Fatty Zhang said: “Robbery wouldn’t happen, but soaking in water until it rots is quite possible.”

“Hahahahaha!” Everyone laughed wildly while Hundred Herbs Elder was furious with shame: “Nonsense! Nonsense! Absolutely not true!”

After everyone laughed for a while, Hundred Herbs Elder had already left angrily. As they say, “meeting is worse than reputation” – all the previous legends had turned to bubbles. Fatty Zhang laughed: “Brother Ximen, give us brothers some advice. Now with eight princes and eight heirs, if we want to seek some official position, which path do you think we should take?” Ximen Song laughed: “What? With your material, you still want to become a marquis?”

Fatty Zhang said: “That’s Young Master Huo’s ambition. I have small appetites – I just want to make some money and get a small official position…” Before Ximen Song could speak, a guest at a neighboring table had already stood up: “Good birds choose trees to perch in. If brother wants to serve a wise master, why not seek audience with Prince Tang?”

Fatty Zhang said in surprise: “You are…” That guest said: “This humble one is a retainer of Prince Tang. If you wish to seek office, just come with me. Prince Tang is generous – truly the contemporary Lord Mengchang, and will never shortchange you.”

Fatty Zhang was somewhat tempted and was about to go make connections when another person said: “What contemporary Lord Mengchang? Prince Tang relies only on wealth, using up servants. How can he achieve great enterprise? Don’t you know Prince Feng is heroic and righteous, humble in his dealings – that’s what truly means embracing all like the sea.” Fatty Zhang said in surprise: “You… you are…” That person said: “This humble one is Shen Zhishan from Hankou, a staff member of Prince Feng.”

Fatty Zhang pondered: “Brother is from Hankou – how do you address the Three Heroes of Hankou?” That person cupped his hands: “You dishonor this humble one’s ears. How can the three unworthy disciples deserve the word ‘hero’?” Once these words were spoken, everyone cried out in astonishment: “‘Three Towns Commander’ Master Shen is here! Come! Let’s toast you!”

Looking at this person surnamed Shen, he seemed to be a gang leader with fame rivaling the Hundred Herbs Elder. Prince Tang’s subordinate, knowing he couldn’t compete, quietly slipped away. Fatty Zhang saw a financial opportunity and was about to step forward to pay respects when Yan Bao held him back: “Don’t listen to them, Brother Zhang. If you want to seek office, why go far when there’s a near option? Just ask little brother.”

Fatty Zhang said in surprise: “What abilities do you have, little fellow, to dare say such words?” Yan Bao said: “Brother Zhang doesn’t know – my master leads Emei and is close friends with Prince Hui. If Brother Zhang wants to find work, why not come with me to see my master?” Fatty Zhang said in amazement: “What? Master Yan has allied with Prince Hui? How haven’t I heard of this?” Yan Bao sighed: “My master has instructed that these Eastern Palace court matters must avoid publicity. He told us not to speak much in daily life, lest people misunderstand us as braggarts and frauds.”

These words pointed at the mulberry but cursed the locust tree – how could Shen Zhishan bear it? He heard him take a deep breath and say in a heavy voice: “This young hero being young doesn’t matter, but if he speaks arrogantly and treats no one as his equal, that won’t do.” Yan Bao said calmly: “Speaking of age and seniority, can you be older than our Emei’s White Eyebrow Patriarch? I advise you to stop putting on airs and acting crazy in front of me.”

Shen Zhishan’s face darkened: “Little fellow, you have quite a tone.” Before he finished speaking, five or six people had already stood up around them – apparently all his gang members. Yan Bao lowered his head to drink tea and said calmly: “However many people you have, feel free to call them out. If our mountain’s White Eyebrow Patriarch comes, you also know what the consequences would be.”

This “White Eyebrow Patriarch” was some unknown figure, but that Shen Zhishan, though clearly grinding his teeth, didn’t dare offend. Suddenly hearing a bang as a Daoist slammed the table and stood up, shouting sternly: “Outrageous! So what about White Eyebrow Patriarch? My Wudang Mountain’s ‘Pure Yang Successor’ has already emerged – why fear one old man from Emei? Call him over to kowtow three times and we might spare his life!”

Yan Bao angrily said: “Who are you?” The Daoist shouted sternly: “Wudang’s Yuan Shan respectfully requests your guidance!” The two disagreed and each slammed tables in angry curses, likely to come to blows. Fatty Zhang pulled Ximen Song over and whispered: “Brother Ximen, which prince do you favor? Please give some guidance.” Ximen Song laughed: “I favor Emperor Zhengtong.”

Everyone made surprised sounds, somewhat not understanding. Deng Qiansui coughed several times and, seeing Huo Tianlong remaining silent, said: “Young Master Huo, with your fame and martial arts, joining anyone would be welcomed with open arms. Do you want to play this game?” Huo Tianlong shook his head: “What eight princes and seven princesses – I’m not interested at all. Making me bow for a few taels of silver – this Huo fellow isn’t excited about that either.”

Deng Qiansui frowned: “Then what are you doing at Hongluo Temple?” Huo Tianlong said: “I came to avoid disaster.” Everyone said blankly: “Avoid disaster? What disaster?” Huo Tianlong didn’t say much more, just glanced at Ximen Song and lowered his head to drink tea. Lu Yun listened from the side, thinking: “This fellow surnamed Huo understands things and sees the situation very clearly.”

This morning he had personally witnessed Prince Hui’s death in battle in the western suburbs. How much fortune this Zhengtong Dynasty still had remained uncertain. Now talking about Eastern Palace crown princes and Western Palace empresses was just a great spring and autumn dream.

Just as he was sighing, he suddenly heard the sound of strings – it seemed someone was playing a pipa. The sound came very quickly, reaching within dozens of zhang in the blink of an eye, and the melody was particularly high-pitched. Looking at the people in the hall, none seemed to notice. Lu Yun felt slightly alarmed, thinking silently: “Another expert has arrived.” Walking to the window, he saw a person in black clothes sweeping across the rooftop opposite, holding a pipa. In an instant, his heart relaxed as he thought: “It’s Marshal Jin Teng.”

This was indeed a strange affair. This Marshal Jin Teng was originally a “Nation-Protecting Iron Guard” ranked “Twenty-Three.” Who would have expected that upon seeing Lu Yun holding that “Asura Command Token,” he would insist that he was the “Great Manager” and from then on began running errands for him – truly impossible to shake off.

This Marshal Jin Teng had been ordered to find A’Xiu and at this moment must have news to report. Just as he was waiting for him to come and meet, who knew the pipa sound would gradually fade away – had this person actually run past? Lu Yun wanted to call out, so he placed his finger to his lips, leaving only a hair’s width gap, and slowly exhaled. Immediately, a long dragon’s roar emerged.

This method was connected to “transmitting sound into secrets” – the sound was deep yet could travel far. Because the sound was too deep for human ears to detect, only cats and dogs could perceive it. With “Twenty-Three’s” internal energy, he would surely hear and come.

After playing for a while, indeed the pipa sound faintly returned – Marshal Jin Teng had responded. Lu Yun was greatly delighted and played several more notes to signal him to come quickly. Marshal Jin Teng also plucked his pipa to indicate understanding.

Both sides responded to each other with evident high spirits. The people in the hall continued their loud conversation without notice when suddenly there was a slapping sound from the second floor, followed by someone roaring: “Where did this stinking mosquito come from? Specifically disturbing your father’s sleep?”

Hearing that there was another expert in the shop, Lu Yun was naturally slightly stunned. That Marshal Jin Teng, not knowing he had disturbed someone, continued playing his pipa in rapid succession with clanging sounds. That guest couldn’t bear the noise and suddenly let out a piercing scream: “Divine Blade Energy!” With a thunderous sound, the person slapped the wall with one palm, and the entire building swayed precariously. Then a large group of old women burst through the door, charging straight up to the second floor, roaring: “Song Tongming! Where are you hiding?”

That Yan Bao had been arguing with someone but was pushed aside by these old women. The tea master quickly stepped forward to stop them: “The court has commanded that upstairs is a resting place for court officials – those below third rank in office or without marquis title cannot go up.” The old women angrily said: “We are exactly marquises!” They pushed people aside and charged upstairs.

Lu Yun was dazed for a long while before realizing Song Tongming was upstairs. He heard a bang as a room was broken into, followed by thunderous noise inside – “Divine Blade Energy” on the left, “Divine Blade Energy” on the right, mixed with curses about fathers and mothers. Poor Commandery Princess Yuning, being in the neighboring room, was greatly disturbed and could only open her private room and send out a maidservant to shout: “Shopkeeper! Shopkeeper! We want to sit outside!”

As soon as the room door opened, all the guests in the shop were startled and stood up.

Commandery Princess Yuning had come out. She was seen descending from her noble status, walking down step by step, actually seeming to want to share a room with common mortals. Lu Yun stared blankly when suddenly someone patted him from behind. Turning quickly to look, it was Marshal Jin Teng. Looking at this person’s head, something was wrong – upon seeing Lu Yun, regardless of the watching crowd, he had already prostrated himself publicly and shouted: “Subordinate Twenty-Three pays respects to Great…”

Lu Yun covered his mouth and whispered in his ear: “Don’t make noise, there are many outsiders here.” Just as he was speaking, the commandery princess actually walked toward his table. Lu Yun’s heart was uneasy as he lowered his head and hands. He saw a maidservant point at him: “Little brother, could you let us sit at this table?”

Lu Yun pulled Marshal Jin Teng and was about to yield and move away when the maidservant said: “You two don’t move. We want to sit at this table.”

That table’s guests were precisely Fatty Zhang, Huo Tianlong and others. Everyone’s hearts had been pounding, but hearing that people were targeting them, they felt displeased in their hearts. The tea master stepped forward with a smile: “Gentlemen, please move over.”

At that time, men and women were separate, and distinctions of rank were absolutely necessary. With the commandery princess’s status, common people absolutely could not share the same table with her. Everyone was reluctant, and the Emei swordsman was particularly disappointed. Ximen Song said: “Everyone please get up quickly. Being able to yield seats to the commandery princess is a blessing we cultivated in our previous lives – what dissatisfaction could there be?”

Fatty Zhang yawned and slowly stood up, coming not far from the commandery princess’s side. Seemingly intentionally or unintentionally, he bumped toward her body, not forgetting to grin lewdly twice. The maidservant was shocked and angry, shouting sternly: “How dare you!” She clapped her hands twice, and two sword-bearing guards entered from outside: “Imperial Clan Court guards are here awaiting orders.” The maidservant angrily said: “Someone has disturbed the imperial carriage! What do you say should be done?” The two sword-bearing guards surveyed the hall with angry glares: “Who is so damned?”

“It’s him!” All the guests in the shop pointed toward Fatty Zhang, frightening him into fleeing with his head in his hands. Ximen Song said in alarm: “Misunderstanding, misunderstanding! This friend of mine is blind and easily bumps into people when walking.” Fatty Zhang was quite sensible and immediately stretched his hands forward, crying: “Where is my walking stick?” He hurriedly fled outside the hall. Huo Tianlong also slipped away with him, leaving an empty table in the hall.

Though this was currently the Zhengtong Dynasty, Yuning was after all of imperial bloodline – anyone wanting to take advantage and be disrespectful was asking for trouble. The Imperial Clan Court guards were quite satisfied and said to the tea master: “Serve well – if there’s the slightest mistake, watch out for your life as compensation.”

The tea master quickly said: “Yes, yes.” Just as he was about to clean the table and chairs, several maidservants said: “You step aside.” They took over the cloth and wiped the table spotlessly clean, then lit an incense burner and carefully fumigated it again before spreading silk on the chairs and helping the commandery princess take her seat.

For a moment, light smoke curled upward, filling the room with exotic fragrance. That Yuning had elegant bearing, her beautiful eyes gazing at the snowy scenery outside the window. She glanced around with her beautiful eyes, and suddenly seeing Lu Yun, quickly turned her head away again.

The attendant women loyally protected their mistress, guarding three sides of the table. No one was allowed to look at the commandery princess, but only Lu Yun’s table got a full view. That Marshal Jin Teng’s heart was thumping as he said quietly: “According to the supreme edict, there are beautiful women…” Just as he wanted to go pay respects, Lu Yun grabbed him and whispered: “Did you find A’Xiu?”

As soon as the two words “A’Xiu” were spoken, there was again strange noise below the counter, like rats fighting. Marshal Jin Teng was dazed for a long while: “Found… found him. He’s waiting for me in Lantern Alley.”

Lu Yun was puzzled: “Lantern Alley? What kind of place is that?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “It’s the former dynasty’s Rouge Lane. A place for playing with women.” Seeing the maidservants’ faces tremble, Lu Yun was also embarrassed and quickly lowered his voice: “How… how could you leave him in that kind of place? Didn’t I tell you to follow him closely?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “The young master has a bad temper. He said unless I buy him a book, he won’t come with me.”

Lu Yun frowned: “Buy a book? Is it for school use or…” Marshal Jin Teng said: “Not the kind for propping up bed legs. The young master wants a good book called ‘Prince Hailing of Jin’s Death from Debauchery – Sequel.'”

The rats under the counter were very strange – upon hearing about a good book, they immediately ran about intensely, making an unbearable racket. Lu Yun was also dumbfounded, asking blankly: “What… what is that?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “That’s the Zhengtong Dynasty’s foremost masterpiece by the great scholar Feng Menglong. This humble one also bought a set. It tells of the Jin Dynasty’s fatuous ruler Prince Hailing who indulged in pleasure in the rear palace, playing with consorts and princesses day and night…” Just as he was about to elaborate on the details of the playing, Yuning stood up, and a maidservant nearby said loudly: “Waiter, waiter! We want to change tables.”

The tea master wore a bitter smile but couldn’t say much, only directing customers to laboriously move about. Lu Yun coughed and said again: “Did you… did you buy the book?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “No. I went to twenty-eight bookshops, and everyone laughed when they saw me, telling me to write one myself. This humble one really had no way, so I could only look everywhere for you to see what to do.”

Human hearts were not what they used to be, each situation worse than the last. Now even children were addicted to reading strange books. Lu Yun shook his head and sighed: “You… you just let him act so wildly? Why didn’t you use some force?” Marshal Jin Teng sighed: “There was no way. The young master ordered that if I didn’t listen to him, he would commit suicide.” Lu Yun said in amazement: “What suicide?” Marshal Jin Teng sighed: “The young master stopped breathing, planning to suffocate to death.”

Lu Yun was both angry and amused. Looking at this Marshal Jin Teng, though his martial arts were high, he was hidebound and inflexible. No wonder treacherous ministers like Jiang Chong’s group were always bad-tempered and hit people at every turn – they were driven to it by these subordinates. After a bitter smile, he said: “Forget it. Does he have money with him now?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “Yes, he forcibly demanded a gold ingot from this subordinate – half a year’s salary is gone.”

When wandering outside, the most important thing was money. Hearing that A’Xiu had money with him, Lu Yun’s heart was somewhat at ease. He knew this child would probably return to find Second Concubine after playing around, so there was no need to worry much about this. Just as he was relieved, he heard Marshal Jin Teng say: “Great Manager, the young master took my ingot – you’ll return it to me, right?” Lu Yun coughed: “This… this naturally…”

Marshal Jin Teng was reassured: “That’s good. Though we serve the country and people, salary must still be collected.” Lu Yun shook his head with a bitter smile: “Alright, let’s go out first and discuss further.” He threw a wen on the table to settle the account and stood up with Marshal Jin Teng when he suddenly heard squeaking and chattering from under the counter, as if someone was laughing quietly.

The laughter was extremely faint, seemingly including speech but also covered by hands. Even with Marshal Jin Teng’s skill, he was unaware.

At this time, Marshal Jin Teng was already outside the door. Seeing Lu Yun standing still, he poked his head in to ask: “What’s wrong?” Lu Yun stopped speaking: “Don’t come in.”

This wasn’t the first time Lu Yun had heard the sounds. Two or three times had already aroused his suspicion. Coming to the counter, he placed his hand on the table and suddenly felt heat in his palm, his heart also jumping with a thump, as if a large tiger was hiding under the counter.

Lu Yun stepped back one pace, raised his palm to protect his chest, and said in a deep voice: “Friend, how about coming out to meet?” Marshal Jin Teng was also an expert – seeing the situation was unusual, he immediately raised his iron pipa with full alertness.

Guests in the hall were discussing in all directions, and that Commandery Princess Yuning also looked toward Lu Yun with eyes full of curiosity. Lu Yun stepped back one pace, one hand protecting his chest, one hand pressing the counter, just about to push it over when suddenly he heard a clanging sound as bowls and chopsticks fell from the table. Lu Yun swept his sleeve to roll the bowls and chopsticks back, but at this moment, the red cloth on the counter flew up and covered Lu Yun’s head.

Seeing his vision blocked, Lu Yun remained calm despite his alarm and immediately struck forward with one palm. Suddenly, a flame-like breath burned back. Lu Yun made a “hey” sound and summoned his “Sword Cold” energy, just about to resist with force when he heard a bang from beside the door – someone had burst out.

The opponent had used misdirection and already escaped like a golden cicada shedding its shell. Lu Yun couldn’t tear off the red cloth in time and rushed outside, shouting: “Marshal Jin Teng! Quickly block him!” The words were still in his mouth when he heard thundering hoofbeats on the road and Marshal Jin Teng shouting: “Great Manager! Quickly get out of the way!”

Lu Yun made a surprised sound and quickly tore off the red cloth, only to see a ray of firelight flying toward him with extreme speed. Marshal Jin Teng cried out and flew forward, pushing Lu Yun aside with one grab. He heard an “aiya” sound as this “Twenty-Three” was struck squarely by the firelight.

Lu Yun was greatly alarmed and quickly looked – before him was a towering giant horse, cinnabar blood-red with long, elegant legs. It was clearly a “Red Hare Horse”!

As soon as the Red Hare Horse appeared, Marshal Jin Teng was already lying on the ground, his life or death unknown. Lu Yun was extremely anxious and was about to turn to examine his companion when he heard the horse neigh and a girl dismounted, saying in alarm: “Old uncle, are… are you still alive?” Seeing that she had indeed been galloping madly day and night and caused trouble, she quickly went to shake Marshal Jin Teng in panic: “Old uncle, old uncle, wake up!”

Though Marshal Jin Teng was only ranked “Twenty-Three,” his bad luck was the world’s worst. Having sacrificed himself to save his master, he had fallen unconscious. Juan’er was both shocked and anxious, afraid she had killed someone. She quickly took off her hairpin to find pressure points on his body, about to attempt random treatment when suddenly she heard a “meow” and a kitten jumped over. Juan’er was greatly frightened: “Go away quickly!”

There were small cats in Hongluo Temple. Looking at the kitten being very playful, it looked at Marshal Jin Teng on the ground and patted him with its paws. In an instant, the corpse on the ground opened both eyes and stood up straight without needing to bow or bend.

“Help! Help!” Juan’er cried loudly: “Old uncle! Don’t harm me! Don’t!” The corpse had revived and was still looking at her with a sinister gaze, saying coldly: “According to the supreme edict.” With a slap, he brought his knees together and jumped up, announcing loudly: “I am not an old uncle!”

“Help! A zombie! A dead person has come back to life!” Juan’er turned and fled, crying and shouting loudly. Unfortunately, she bumped into another person. Looking up, it was indeed a groom. Juan’er breathed a sigh of relief, knowing she had encountered a living person. Just as she was about to hide behind that person, she saw the groom smile and nod as if he recognized her. Juan’er made a surprised sound and focused her gaze back.

Ordinary grooms had filthy clothes and spat while walking, but this person was neatly dressed, clean and refined. Just as she was examining him, their eyes met. She saw that this person was not only neatly dressed but also quite handsome – straight nose bridge, thin lips, rectangular face. Wasn’t this the one surnamed “Lu” named “Yun”…

“Ghost!” Juan’er screamed and quickly jumped onto the Red Hare Horse, crying: “Ghosts are everywhere! Run quickly!” She scratched and clawed wildly, kicking and hitting. The Red Hare Horse was truly hard-working – after taking several hard blows, it desperately galloped away with its head turned.

The Red Hare Horse disappeared without a trace, and that groom naturally stared in amazement, saying blankly: “What… what happened this time?”

The newcomer was naturally Lu Yun. He was bewildered and didn’t understand what was happening. He quickly asked Marshal Jin Teng: “Are… are you alright?” Marshal Jin Teng said blankly: “I… I am not an old uncle.” Lu Yun was also dazed and quickly said: “I know you’re not an old uncle. Come, let me help you sit down.” Just as he was about to reach out to support him, Marshal Jin Teng was already furious and brushed his sleeve: “I am not an old uncle!”

This Marshal Jin Teng’s head wasn’t bright to begin with, and now after being struck by the Red Hare Horse, he was naturally even less useful. But Lu Yun felt very grateful in his heart, knowing he had sacrificed himself to save him. So he patiently helped him back to the tea shop: “Come, sit down and rest first.”

Marshal Jin Teng made an “mm” sound and sat down. Staring blankly as several guests passed by, he suddenly jumped up and roared: “You’re the old uncle!” The guests in the hall were startled by these words. Lu Yun quickly comforted: “Good boy, I’m the old uncle, I’m the old uncle.”

All around, people were giggling and laughing. Yuning covered her mouth and laughed lightly, while other guests were holding their stomachs and spraying rice, apparently all taking him for a fool. Lu Yun was slightly embarrassed and patted Marshal Jin Teng’s shoulder: “You sit for a while. I’ll go outside to look around and be back shortly.” With a bitter smile and shake of his head, he walked out of the shop and looked around, still searching for the person under the counter.

Just now, a person had been hiding under the counter with murderous intent, which had drawn Lu Yun to investigate. Unexpectedly, as soon as both sides made a move, the opponent covered Lu Yun’s head with a red cloth, first blocking his vision, then having Juan’er create a disturbance, so that he didn’t even see the opponent’s face.

Last night, Lu Yun had competed with the “Great Manager” on the same stage but was caught off guard by “Tianjue” and nearly captured. Now he was again outmaneuvered by this unknown expert through misdirection, allowing them to escape calmly – he could be said to have lost two matches in a row. He sighed and looked down at his palm, which was still red as if burned by angry fire.

Lu Yun slightly clenched his fist, having a vague feeling in his heart that the person just now was the “Furious King” Qin Zhonghai.

In the current world, only Qin Zhonghai had this kind of internal energy, these methods, this scheming. But strangely, now Hongluo Temple was filled with soldiers and horses. If that person was truly Qin Zhonghai, why would he take such great risks to come here alone?

Qin and Lu had originally been the closest of friends, sharing countless life-and-death hardships. If not for that blade years ago, they would still be close friends today. Therefore, Lu Yun deeply understood his character. If he didn’t come to Hongluo Temple, that would be fine, but once he appeared at the temple, he would surely do something shocking – probably still coming for Emperor Zhengtong.

Thinking of Gu Qianxi and Second Concubine both being in the city, Lu Yun couldn’t help but take a deep breath: “This… this matter is no small thing. Should I or shouldn’t I tell Dingyuan?” Just as his feet moved, he suddenly thought of the million hungry ghosts outside the city and stopped in his tracks.

“Killing without teaching is called cruelty; expecting results without warning is called tyranny.” This morning at the Fucheng Gate battle, Lu Yun had knelt to hear the imperial edict and already knew the court turned a deaf ear to the northwestern disaster victims. These people had come from far away seeking nothing but food and warmth, yet the court ignored them completely. Even if he himself were a thousand times more selfish and cold-hearted, how could he cut off their last bit of hope for survival?

Left hand was the court, right hand was Furious Cang – at this moment it was truly difficult to decide. Lu Yun sighed deeply and thought again: “Forget it. Whether that person just now was Zhonghai is still uncertain – why should I make unnecessary trouble?”

The martial world was vast with all kinds of wonders. Perhaps that person just now was some retired senior – that would also be hard to say. Thinking this, he shook his head again and was about to return to the tea hall when he suddenly heard snorting sounds ahead. Looking up, he saw a big red horse tethered on the main road ahead, blood-red all over with crystal-bright coat – it was the Red Hare Horse he had just seen. Beside the horse stood a silly girl, patting her chest and saying in a trembling voice: “So frightening! Ghosts all day long – I’ll have to go to the temple to burn incense later.”

Lu Yun was greatly delighted, thinking silently: “We meet again.” He quickly stepped forward, preparing to greet her.

Juan’er also deserved some credit for his escape from the waterfall this time. Unfortunately, at that time Lu Yun had kept a long beard and felt like seeking death, so he hadn’t recognized her. But this time was different from that time – now even Gu Qianxi had met face to face, so what was there still to avoid? Lu Yun was happy in his heart and just wanted to give her a surprise. So he quietly came behind Juan’er and was about to pat her shoulder when this silly girl suddenly jumped forward to the Red Hare Horse’s side, saying worriedly: “Big Red Face, I… I’ve been haunted by ghosts and need to buy some paper money. Be good and wait here for me, don’t run around.”

Just as she was instructing, the Red Hare Horse was extremely anxious, snorting continuously while raising its legs and swishing its tail, all pointing toward Juan’er’s back, hinting that ghosts were approaching. Unfortunately, this silly girl hadn’t understood and only said blankly: “Want apples again? Here, open your mouth.” She found a large apple from her bosom and stuffed it into the Red Hare Horse’s mouth, as if to make it shut up.

Juan’er walked with her head down, constantly checking her shadow on the ground, quite fearful. Just as she was worried, she suddenly saw pilgrims passing by all around with strong yang energy and laughed: “Not afraid – this is Hongluo Temple with strong yang energy. Ghosts won’t follow here.”

Hearing himself called a dead person, Lu Yun frowned and shook his head. Just as he was about to pat her, this silly girl ran again. He saw her rush to a shop and shout: “Boss! How much does this paper money cost?” A monk picked up a bamboo basket and smiled: “Look, our paper money here is divided into three grades – good, ordinary, and special gold ingot-shaped ones. Which kind do you want?”

Juan’er was a carefree person – how would she know paper money had so many considerations? Seeing the bamboo basket full of silver paper, bright and shining, she randomly picked up a basket and murmured: “Burn this kind.” Lu Yun sighed inwardly: “This is probably being burned for me. What an expense.”

Just as he was feeling grateful, he heard the monk say: “Miss, eight qian of silver.” Juan’er said in shock: “So expensive! Calculate it cheaper.” The monk sighed: “There’s also three wen worth – do you want it?” Juan’er said happily: “Good! Is there two wen worth?”

The monk grumbled and took out a basin of grass dung paper. Juan’er also took out her money pouch and hadn’t yet had time to pay when she heard “clang, clang” – two copper coins fell from the sky, and she heard a call by her ear: “Miss Juan’er, don’t waste money.”

Juan’er’s teeth chattered as she glanced sideways and was shocked to see a sinister large felt hat behind her, quite close, still saying: “Don’t be afraid, quickly turn around and look at me.” Lu Yun deliberately softened his voice, but frightened Juan’er until her whole body shook. He intentionally tried to reassure the little girl: “It’s me, Lu Yun.” Seeing Juan’er still not turning around, he reached out and patted her left shoulder once. Strangely, though this pat used no internal energy, Juan’er seemed to have been struck by lightning and immediately ran wildly, crying: “Here it comes again!”

Folk superstition said the human body had three lamps – two on the shoulders and one on the head. Whenever evil ghosts attacked, they would first pat the left shoulder, then the right shoulder. When both shoulder lamps were extinguished, a casual pat on the forehead would extinguish all three lamps and cause death.

Juan’er cried and fled, not expecting that though there was a monk nearby, ghosts could still openly appear. The monk was apparently useless – only Buddha’s protection would be security. In her panic, she suddenly saw a small hall nearby enshrining Arhat venerables and felt quite fortunate: “Now I can feel safe.” Coming before the altar, she threw two wen into the incense oil tube and was about to burn incense and pray when she was shocked to see someone with palms together already bowing before the statue. Looking at that ghostly figure wearing a large felt hat, who could it be but “Lu Youyou”?

Lu Youyou had died and become a ghost, now brazenly entering the temple – his magical power was truly formidable. Juan’er’s face lost all color and she was about to flee in panic when Lu Yun, in desperation, could only grab her sleeve and shout: “Steady yourself!”

Juan’er cried loudly: “Don’t cling to me! I wasn’t the one who harmed you!” Immediately sword light flashed as Jiuhua Mountain’s “Reverse Rolling Pearl Curtain,” “Flying Cloud Jade Spring,” and other famous moves were all displayed with quite fierce momentum. Lu Yun dodged repeatedly, and after a pause, Juan’er also proved capable – taking three steps as two, she rushed into the Cloud Meeting Tea Room, which was precisely where Lu Yun had been resting earlier.

Lu Yun smiled bitterly, not expecting this little girl to still be so timid despite being nearly thirty. He followed inside and saw that Ximen Song and others had all left without a trace. As for Marshal Jin Teng, he was still sitting there dazedly, confusedly drinking tea. Looking at Commandery Princess Yuning, she was also lowering her head in contemplation, apparently with something on her mind.

Guests came and went in the shop, but Juan’er was like a headless fly, just running around wildly inside. Lu Yun shook his head and was about to call out to stop her when this silly girl actually ran back toward the entrance, crying loudly: “Finally… finally found you!”

Seeing Juan’er use her lightness skills to brush past him, completely ignoring this old ghost, Lu Yun couldn’t help but feel curious, not knowing who had arrived. Before he could turn around to look, he heard Juan’er cry out: “Qiong Fang, Sister Qiong, Lady Qiong! You’ve finally come!”

Upon hearing this, Lu Yun’s face changed dramatically. He suddenly turned and dove into a nearby counter, hiding there on the spot.

A great beauty stood at the shop entrance – with northern grace and heavenly bearing, it was indeed “Qiong Fang” who had arrived. With the young pavilion master of the Qiong family here, wouldn’t the main person also appear? Just as he was feeling anxious, he saw a slender, refined woman enter the shop gracefully, carrying a small bundle – it was Gu Qianxi. The two had come together by carriage and had already arrived at the “Hongluo Mountain” at the feet of the Son of Heaven in the northern capital.

Just as the two women entered the shop, they suddenly heard a gentle call: “Master.” Hearing this, Lu Yun couldn’t help but feel curious. Though hiding behind the counter, he still stretched his neck, not knowing who was calling out “Master.” In the midst of his surprise, he saw Commandery Princess Yuning step forward and come before Gu Qianxi, saying: “Master, you’ve come too.”

The guests in the shop all turned their heads to observe Gu Qianxi and Yuning. Seeing the commandery princess’s grand manner, Qiong Fang had already noticed her, but now hearing her call Gu Qianxi “Master” – what was this about? Gu Qianxi observed their expressions and explained: “His Highness Yuning has been studying painting with me for six years now.” Qiong Fang made a long “oh” sound, only then understanding it was a painting student.

In her youth, Gu Qianxi had learned from Wutong Hermit and mastered fine brushwork. Now she painted from the heart with casual strokes, naturally having the style of a grandmaster. Presumably in recent years her reputation had grown increasingly renowned, so these famous ladies and gentlewomen of the capital had come to study with her.

At this moment, Gu Qianxi could have stood anywhere, but she chose to stand beside the counter. Lu Yun was hiding behind it, separated by mere inches, like a turtle in a jar. If caught red-handed, wouldn’t he be utterly humiliated? Just as he hoped they would quickly leave, Gu Qianxi took Yuning’s hand to introduce her: “Your Highness, this is Miss Qiong from Purple Cloud Pavilion, with the single name…” But before she could finish, Yuning said indifferently: “Master, don’t trouble yourself. I know her grandfather Qiong Wuchuan.” Lu Yun’s body moved slightly as he thought: “This commandery princess speaks very directly.”

That Yuning was indeed a princess of the Jingtai Dynasty – as soon as she opened her mouth, she directly called out the imperial uncle’s name, seemingly wanting to give Qiong Fang a show of force. Qiong Fang was a favored daughter of the Zhengtong Dynasty – how could her temper be small? Annoyed in her heart: “You village girl, are the three characters ‘Qiong Wuchuan’ for you to call? Even if His Majesty were here, he wouldn’t dare directly speak my grandfather’s taboo name. Do you think you’re still in the Jingtai Dynasty?”

Just as she was about to retort, seeing that Gu Qianxi was still watching her, she restrained herself somewhat and said gently: “How disrespectful of me. So sister has taken quite a few students – I didn’t know this.”

Gu Qianxi smiled slightly: “I’m naturally lazy by disposition and like to paint a few strokes. His Highness honors me by coming to casually daub and scribble with me – it’s quite laughable.”

Yuning suddenly said: “Master’s painting style has formed its own school and already established a sect – why must you be modest before common people?”

Hearing herself called a common person, Qiong Fang laughed heartily. Just as she was about to reach for her folding fan, her sleeve was grabbed as she heard a silly girl say: “Sister Fang, don’t… don’t talk nonsense. Quickly help me see if there are any strange shadows following behind me?”

That Juan’er was still afraid of ghosts, clinging tightly to Qiong Fang with trembling voice and fear, like a three-year-old child. Hearing this, both Yuning and Gu Qianxi laughed, and Qiong Fang also smiled: “What’s wrong? Haven’t seen you for one night and you’ve been bewitched?” Juan’er trembled: “Stop laughing at me and quickly help me see if there’s a ghost hiding behind me?” Qiong Fang said dismissively: “Alright, look how scared you are…”

As she spoke, she peered toward the counter. Lu Yun was greatly alarmed, fearing the two would meet face to face. Just as he was about to break through the wall to escape, who knew Qiong Fang was only making a show of looking – she didn’t actually look and had already drawn back, yawning: “Yes, there’s a black shadow hiding behind the counter. Do you want to see?”

“Ghost!” Juan’er screamed shrilly. Seeing Gu Qianxi still standing nearby, she cried “wah” and dove into her embrace, holding her like Guanyin Bodhisattva.

Gu Qianxi had refined features, and Qiong Fang was even more of a beautiful young woman. The two women naturally attracted attention, and now seeing Juan’er crying and jumping, shouting about ghosts like someone who had lost her mind, this drew the tea master over: “Ladies, is there any trouble?”

Gu Qianxi returned the courtesy: “Thank you for your concern, we’re fine.” Just as she was about to dismiss the tea master, Qiong Fang said: “Wait, find us a table for three people.” Hearing this, Yuning said: “Master, why look for another place? Please come sit at your student’s table.” Regardless of her status, she personally pulled out a wooden chair, inviting her master to sit.

Yuning’s table was still empty, so even five people could squeeze in. But she deliberately didn’t invite Qiong Fang, acting as if this person didn’t exist – clearly intending to anger her. Qiong Fang was secretly irritated: “Where did this petty thing come from? Watch this lady get back at you.” She took hold of Gu Qianxi and put on a charming, innocent act: “Sister, sit with me. I’m so ignorant – I must learn painting.”

The two women were competing again. If Gu Qianxi favored one side, she would inevitably offend the other. She couldn’t help but laugh and shake her head: “I won’t sit anywhere. I’ll go buy some incense and candles and be back shortly.” Juan’er said in a trembling voice: “Qiong Fang, come drink some hot tea quickly. I’m… I’m so cold.”

Qiong Fang wasn’t getting along well with Yuning and wanted to avoid her anyway, so she pulled Juan’er to find an empty table in the shop, the farther from Yuning the better. After Gu Qianxi gave some instructions and was about to leave, Yuning followed closely beside her master. Gu Qianxi said quietly: “What was wrong with you just now? Why did you keep antagonizing her?”

Yuning turned her head away with a stubborn expression. Seeing her disciple’s appearance, Gu Qianxi could guess her feelings. Looking at her student who was the daughter of Emperor Jingtai – truly “the swallows that once graced the halls of Wang and Xie” – while Qiong Fang was “Lady Guo receiving new imperial favor.” One was old dynasty nobility, the other current dynasty’s new aristocracy. How could they be compatible? Taking her hand, she gently persuaded: “She’s your imperial uncle’s niece – what should you call her?”

Yuning didn’t speak, tears rolling in her eyes, looking pitiful. Gu Qianxi took out a handkerchief to wipe away her tears and said quietly: “How did you come to Hongluo Temple alone?” Yuning sobbed: “The court wants… wants to establish a crown prince. The Imperial Clan Court wants me to observe the ceremony.”

Gu Qianxi said: “What about your several imperial brothers? No one came with you?” Yuning wiped her tears without answering. A maidservant nearby said: “The princes were ordered to return to their fiefs on the fifth day and not to linger in the capital. Only the princess remains in the capital.” Gu Qianxi stroked Yuning’s cheek and said gently: “Child, you’ve really suffered.” She drew her into her embrace, all care and protection expressed without words.

Lu Yun crouched behind the counter, quietly listening to her conversation with Yuning, thinking: “Time flies so fast – she’s already someone’s master.”

Youth passes quickly. The girl who once nestled beside “Wutong Hermit” had in a blink of an eye taken students and become a “master” in others’ mouths.

Recalling past events in Yangzhou, Lu Yun couldn’t help but feel deeply moved. At that time, Gu Qianxi would go to Wutong Hermit’s home every few days to study painting. One day, by mistake and coincidence, he had also visited once. But at that time, Gu Qianxi had not experienced vicissitudes and had no idea that the seemingly carefree young gentleman was actually a servant in her household, specifically grinding ink and cleaning for her father.

Ten years had passed in a snap of the fingers. These things were all over and would never return. Lu Yun reminisced about the past, his eyes unconsciously reddening. Gu Qianxi was completely unaware that someone was hiding behind her. She arranged Yuning’s hair and instructed: “This place is a mixed gathering of dragons and snakes – it’s not a place you should come. Enter the venue early later, understand?” Hearing her student agree, she gave a few more instructions and was about to leave when she heard Yuning say quietly: “Master, you’re well-connected and have seen much of the world. May… may I ask you about someone?”

Gu Qianxi made an “oh” sound: “What person?” Yuning’s face was completely flushed. Just as she was hesitating whether to speak, she suddenly turned around. Gu Qianxi felt curious and looked toward the maidservant with questioning eyes. The maidservant whispered in her ear: “Madam, look over there.” Following the maidservant’s gaze, she saw a man in black robes sitting at a wooden table, saying foolishly: “I’m not an old uncle.”

Hearing the strange voice about old uncles, Juan’er’s cry of alarm came from the shop again: “Ghost! It’s him! It’s him!” She threw peanuts at him wildly. Gu Qianxi chuckled and pulled her student over: “You want to ask about him?” Yuning’s face turned bright red as she shook her head vigorously. A maidservant nearby whispered: “This strange man had a companion who was sitting at the same table with him earlier, but now he’s nowhere to be seen.”

“Companion?” Gu Qianxi felt slightly surprised. The maidservants didn’t dare say more but exchanged meaningful glances and nodded together.

Gu Qianxi pondered for a long while, then took out a small bell from her clothing and gently shook it. That old uncle came over in confusion: “Such a familiar sound.” Suddenly seeing Gu Qianxi standing before him, he was greatly shocked and jumped up: “According to the supreme edict! Subordinate Marshal Jin Teng! Rank Twenty…” Before he could pay respects, Gu Qianxi stopped him. Yuning said quietly: “Master, is this person a guard from your residence?”

Gu Qianxi smiled slightly: “Ask him yourself.” Yuning was reserved and dignified and couldn’t bring herself to speak, so she turned her head away again. A maidservant nearby grabbed Marshal Jin Teng and said quietly: “Old uncle, earlier there was a young gentleman sitting at the same table with you. Who was that?”

Though Marshal Jin Teng’s mind was unclear, he could still recognize beautiful women. For a moment his heart was greatly delighted: “I’m not an old uncle!” The maidservant said irritably: “If you’re not an old uncle, you’re a fool. Quickly tell us your friend’s name.” Marshal Jin Teng said bewilderedly: “My friend? He… he’s not my friend. He’s called Great…”

Just as the word “Great” came out, a copper coin flew from behind the counter, hitting him squarely on the forehead. After a “buzz” sound, Marshal Jin Teng’s eyes rolled back as he said in alarm: “According to the supreme edict!” The maidservant said bewilderedly: “What supreme edict?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “Subordinate Marshal Jin Teng.” The maidservant said irritably: “What Marshal Jin Teng?” Marshal Jin Teng said: “Rank Twenty-Three.” He gave Gu Qianxi half a bow and then sat back down to drink tea.

The people in the shop watching from the side couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Yuning sighed – she didn’t want to ask about anything anymore and said: “Master, I’ll leave first. You’ll… you’ll also enter the venue later, right?” Gu Qianxi said: “I’ll follow shortly.” Yuning made an “mm” sound and left without looking back. Gu Qianxi quietly held back a maidservant and whispered in her ear: “What exactly happened?”

The maidservant smiled bitterly: “Earlier there was a young gentleman sitting by the window drinking tea. He recited the first half of a poem, and the commandery princess responded with the second half. The two observed each other for a long while…” Gu Qianxi pondered: “What did that young gentleman look like?” The maidservant said: “That person was a scholar, about thirty years old, looking like someone who had been through trials.”

Gu Qianxi felt slightly curious and was about to ask more when another maidservant interrupted: “That person wasn’t a scholar at all. I think he looked like a carriage driver – there was even a large felt hat on his table.” The first maidservant said irritably: “Can carriage drivers compose poetry? I think that person must be a scholar with an official degree.” Another old nanny said: “I also think he was a scholar, but the kind who can’t pass the examinations.”

The women all expressed their opinions while Gu Qianxi seemed lost in thought but said nothing. After the maidservants argued for a while and saw that the commandery princess had already left, they stopped talking and all curtsied to Gu Qianxi before turning to leave together.

Seeing Gu Qianxi still standing in front of the counter, Lu Yun’s thoughts were like a tide. From beginning to end, he hadn’t paid attention to what the maidservants were saying – his eyes were fixed only on her silhouette as he thought: “Does she… does she know I’ve returned? Otherwise, last night at the fabric shop, why… why did she take away my noodle cart? But I… I never met her face to face. Based only on a noodle cart in the alley, how could she know it was my belongings?”

Lu Yun didn’t know – he knew nothing. He crouched behind the counter with slightly red eyes, suddenly hoping very much that she could turn around and say a few words to him.

So many past events floated before his eyes – from their first meeting to the moment he heard she had married. Lu Yun just couldn’t let go. He stared blankly at Gu Qianxi, wanting to stand up and speak but just couldn’t muster the courage.

For a long, long time, Gu Qianxi’s feet moved slightly – she seemed about to leave. Lu Yun’s heart was gloomy and he was about to lower his head when suddenly he saw Gu Qianxi raise her hand to remove her jade hairpin, shake out her long hair, then slowly pin it back up.

In front of everyone, with her back to Lu Yun, Gu Qianxi publicly arranged her appearance. Watching her raise her hand to pin her hair, her snow-white neck was exposed. The guests in the shop wanted to look but had no opportunity – only the person behind the counter got a full view.

Lu Yun was shocked and amazed. He knew that at that time, the separation between men and women was extremely strict. A woman’s neck was a place of feminine dignity – besides her husband, how could outsiders be allowed to see? But Lu Yun just couldn’t turn his head away. Knowing she was someone else’s wife, a flower with an owner, he still foolishly watched. Unconsciously, he crawled up again and slowly reached out to embrace her waist.

Finally, they would recognize each other. With this embrace, ten years of longing and affection could have a resolution. Just as his eyes were misty with tears, he heard someone say: “Sister Gu, has the commandery princess left?”

Someone inconvenient had come to the counter – it was Juan’er. Lu Yun frowned with displeasure and crouched back behind the counter. Gu Qianxi said: “She’s gone. She hadn’t seen me during New Year’s, so we chatted for a bit.” Juan’er murmured again: “Won’t you… won’t you come drink tea?”

Having pinned up her hair, Gu Qianxi’s mood seemed much better. She smiled: “No, I need to buy some things first. I still have to meet an old friend later.” Juan’er made an “oh” sound: “Then… then go quickly and come back quickly.” Gu Qianxi smiled and nodded: “I’ll go and come right back. You sit first.”

Seeing Gu Qianxi leave, Juan’er still stood there in a daze. Lu Yun felt bored and stood up, patting Juan’er on the head: “Juan…” The little girl blinked and turned to look. In an instant, she screamed: “Ghost!” She ran to the wooden table and squeezed onto a wooden bench with Qiong Fang, hugging her like a mother and trembling.

The guests in the shop discussed among themselves. Qiong Fang was also slightly embarrassed: “What’s wrong now?” Juan’er said in horror: “Ghost… ghost hiding behind the counter.” Qiong Fang chuckled: “In broad daylight you’re seeing ghosts – who exactly did you see?” Juan’er said fearfully: “That person died long ago. You… you don’t know him.” Qiong Fang took a sip of clear tea: “Tell me quickly, who is that person?” Juan’er said in a cold voice: “His surname is Lu, called Lu Yun.” Before she finished speaking, Qiong Fang had already jumped up in great alarm: “What!”

Qiong Fang’s sudden roar startled Juan’er, and Lu Yun was even more terrified. He had been waiting to find Marshal Jin Teng but now shrank back again. Juan’er said in a trembling voice: “You… you also know him?” Qiong Fang understood that this matter was intricate and complicated, impossible to explain at once. She quickly said: “Don’t talk about these things. Tell me where he’s hiding.” Juan’er said in a cold voice: “Just… just hiding behind the counter.”

Without another word, Qiong Fang immediately stood up to investigate. Seeing the situation was dire, Lu Yun quickly used all his martial arts skills and in a flash reached the window and jumped out. Just as he was catching his breath, he heard Qiong Fang’s cold laughter: “Good, you big water monster, you’ve finally revealed your true colors!”

Lu Yun felt slightly curious and stole a glance from the window. He saw Qiong Fang had picked up a large felt hat – exactly the one he carried with him. In his emotional panic earlier, he had actually forgotten to take it! Qiong Fang laughed coldly and forcefully slapped the counter, shouting: “Come out!”

How could Lu Yun dare show himself? He naturally crouched outside the window, cowering and not coming out. Juan’er came over fearfully: “Sister Fang, this… this person surnamed Lu died more than ten years ago. How… how do you know him?” Qiong Fang said: “I can commune with spirits and observe the underworld. At night I specialize in chatting with dead people – didn’t you know?” Juan’er said in horror: “Really or fake?”

Qiong Fang was the best at nonsense. She picked up the felt hat and pretended to throw it at Juan’er, shouting: “Boo!” Juan’er screamed and was about to run around wildly when Qiong Fang dragged her back to her seat and whispered in her ear: “Don’t shout. The more afraid you are, the more he’ll want to haunt you. If it ends up with ghost possession, that would be troublesome.”

Juan’er said in a trembling voice: “What… what about Miss Gu? Should we tell her?” Qiong Fang quickly said: “Don’t tell her yet! That person surnamed Lu died too unjustly – he’ll haunt whoever he sees. If you tell Sister Gu, she’ll definitely be afraid.”

Juan’er said in alarm: “Will he… will he haunt Miss Gu?” Qiong Fang said indifferently: “Don’t worry about that. In any case, I’ll help you catch the demon. Sooner or later, I’ll tie him up tight.”

Lu Yun listened with growing worry. Looking at this Qiong Fang, she was quite formidable – she had already calculated that he would definitely haunt Gu Qianxi. When the time came, she only needed to wait by the rabbit hole, and wouldn’t she be able to catch him? Juan’er was half-believing, half-doubting and was about to ask more questions when suddenly a cold wind came from behind with a low voice: “Miss…”

“Here it comes again!” Juan’er screamed. Before she could draw her sword to hack wildly, Qiong Fang had already roared: “Big water monster! See where you can run?” She grabbed the person and was about to press him down for a beating when she heard the person cry out miserably: “Don’t be reckless! I’m selling tea!”

Looking back, it was the tea master who had arrived. Qiong Fang’s face reddened – only then did she realize she hadn’t ordered anything to eat. She immediately said: “Do you… do you have money?” Juan’er quickly said: “I have, I have. Master Fu Fan gave me a lot of money to pass on to you.” She took out a thick stack of banknotes and respectfully offered them with both hands.

As they say, “poverty and wealth reveal true feelings.” Though Juan’er was usually empty-handed, she didn’t covet Qiong Fang’s wealth. At this time, she handed over the banknotes without keeping a single one. Qiong Fang counted carefully and saw there were more than two thousand taels. Her spirits were greatly lifted: “Bring a warm pot of wine and serve six cold dishes and eight hot stir-fries.”

They say money makes things easy. Having finally restored her status as young pavilion master, she was about to hold a grand feast when the tea master said: “Miss, this is a temple tea hall – we only serve vegetarian food, no wine.” Qiong Fang was somewhat disappointed: “Alright then. Bring a pot of jasmine tea with eight kinds of tea snacks.” Juan’er interjected: “Do you have date paste cake?” Qiong Fang frowned: “Eating sweets again. Didn’t you just say you were fat?”

Juan’er was naturally fond of sweets but worried about gaining weight. Her face reddened as she defended: “Encountering ghosts all day – if I don’t eat sugar to calm my nerves, I’ll get sick tomorrow.” Qiong Fang laughed: “As you wish.” She dismissed the tea master while keeping an eye on the counter’s movements and asking quietly: “By the way, where did you encounter Fu Yuanying?”

Juan’er said: “Last night I met him once, then saw him again when entering the city this morning. His information network is quite good – he already knew you went to the Yang family.” As she spoke, her eyes rolled around and she suddenly noticed Qiong Fang wearing women’s clothing, looking incredibly beautiful. She immediately covered her mouth and whispered: “Wait! You… you’re wearing women’s clothes?” Qiong Fang was somewhat proud – all her troubles disappeared for the moment. She swayed her slender waist and smiled charmingly: “Beautiful, right?”

Seeing beautiful clothes, Juan’er immediately forgot everything else, lost in admiration. Just as she was about to examine and evaluate them carefully, suddenly her shoulder was patted again and she heard a ghostly cry in her ear: “Juan…”

“Here it comes again!” Juan’er screamed and was about to throw herself into Qiong Fang’s arms when the person behind her was already kicked down by Qiong Fang. Juan’er went into a frenzy, desperately kicking that person, who cried out miserably: “Stop hitting! Stop hitting! If you keep hitting, someone will die!”

Hearing the ghost begging for mercy, Juan’er couldn’t help but make a surprised sound. Looking down carefully, she saw a young gentleman under her feet holding a red-tasseled iron spear – it was Zhu Kang who had arrived. Juan’er snorted and withdrew her delicate foot, saying proudly: “Oh, it’s you.” Seeing these two women’s fierce gazes, Zhu Kang couldn’t help but swallow nervously and say tremblingly: “Yes, as soon as I left the city, I encountered you two…”

Seeing Zhu Kang groaning and moaning, Juan’er couldn’t help but make a surprised sound. She saw this young master was covered in injuries – his mouth corners were blue and purple, and his hands and feet were full of bandages. She quickly said: “What… what happened to you?” Zhu Kang said: “I encountered a ghost last night.”

Hearing the word “ghost,” Juan’er was greatly alarmed: “You… you also encountered a ghost? Was it the old ghost surnamed Lu?” Zhu Kang said bewilderedly: “Old ghost Lu? What’s that?” Lu Yun, hiding outside the hall, naturally watched with secret amusement: “Really, where do ghosts and spirits come from in this world? This little girl really won’t grow up.” Just as he was finding it amusing, suddenly there were light footsteps behind him and someone reached out to pat his shoulder.

A ghost had come? Lu Yun was slightly startled, then heard the newcomer’s long, steady breathing and couldn’t help but feel annoyed: “Such petty tricks dare to show off before an expert?” His shoulder shifted slightly to avoid the palm, then he countered with a grip to control the person’s pulse point, about to throw him down when he heard someone cry out in pain: “According to the supreme edict… it hurts so much…”

Lu Yun’s face reddened as he realized it was Marshal Jin Teng and quickly said: “You’re awake.” Marshal Jin Teng said bewilderedly: “Who’s awake?” Lu Yun lowered his voice: “You were just hit by a horse and fainted – don’t you know?” Marshal Jin Teng said in alarm: “What? I was hit by a horse? Who did it?”

This Marshal Jin Teng’s mind was always unclear – Lu Yun had experienced this before. Just as he was about to say more, he heard shouting from outside the shop: “Kang’er! How are you tangled up with this witch again? Don’t you think you’re unlucky enough?” Turning to look, a large cart had stopped across from the tea hall and several women had gotten out – one old and three young. It was the loyal family of “Hebei Zhu Family Village” who had arrived.

Seeing the carriage arrive, Marshal Jin Teng was about to step forward to demand compensation without another word, but Lu Yun held him back. As they were entangled, Old Lady Zhu roared again: “Kang’er! Still standing there in a daze? Let’s go!” Hearing his grandmother calling, Zhu Kang could only sullenly shout back: “You go first! I want to drink a bowl of tea here!” Old Lady Zhu flew into a rage: “Still drinking! Haven’t you drunk enough last night? Must you be beaten to death or crippled before you’re satisfied?” Just as she was about to enter and beat him, the daughters-in-law on both sides quickly advised: “Mother, Prince Tang has invited us – let’s hurry and go, we mustn’t slight him.”

Every family has its difficult scriptures to recite. Qiong Fang had a grandfather over her head, Juan’er had a senior sister above her, and Zhu Kang needn’t be mentioned – though his father and ancestors’ protection had gotten him the empty title of “Fengu Lieutenant,” he had three empress dowagers above him and even higher up a “Grand Empress Dowager.” With four women stepping on him, he remained neither scholarly nor martial – as long as he couldn’t become a real lord, he couldn’t be the head of the family.

Finally the old lady left. Qiong Fang sat leisurely to the side and, seeing Zhu Kang’s face wrapped in bandages with a dejected expression, smiled and asked: “Young Master Zhu, where did these injuries come from? Did the old lady beat you?” Zhu Kang smiled bitterly: “Don’t laugh at me – if my grandmother heard, it wouldn’t be good.” He took out wound medicine and was about to apply it to his face when he suddenly saw Qiong Fang’s hand was also bandaged and swollen with injury. He couldn’t help but say in alarm: “Pavilion Master Qiong, what… what happened to your hand?” Juan’er said resentfully: “She was bitten by an old mad dog.”

Zhu Kang looked bewildered, not understanding, when he heard Qiong Fang say displeasedly: “Who’s the old mad dog?” Juan’er said: “Whoever bites people randomly is a mad dog.” Qiong Fang said in a deep voice: “Shut up! If my grandfather is a mad dog, what does that make me?”

Lu Yun, hiding outside the window, naturally didn’t understand the reason. Glancing over, he suddenly saw Qiong Fang’s left hand was injured, with the wound right on her palm. He couldn’t help but feel alarmed: “This… this was done by Imperial Uncle Qiong?” Looking at this Qiong Fang about to marry, she should already be considered a daughter-in-law of Mount Hua. If the imperial uncle wanted to beat someone, he’d probably have to ask Su Ying’s opinion first. He didn’t know what heavenly law this girl had violated to receive family punishment before her wedding.

Just as he wanted to hear more details, Qiong Fang refused to say more: “Alright, this is my family business. None of you are allowed to mention it again, understand?” Juan’er muttered quietly: “I know… I wasn’t scolding you anyway. I looked for you all night and you’re still being fierce to me.”

Qiong Fang knew she treated her extremely well and felt somewhat apologetic, so she comforted: “Alright, alright, come drink some tea quickly.”

Juan’er gloomily ate her sweet cake. Seeing Zhu Kang hiding to the side snickering, she slammed the table and roared: “Speak! How did you get those injuries? Did your grandmother bite you?” Zhu Kang had been drinking tea when this unexpected disaster struck. He couldn’t help but smile bitterly: “Sigh, it’s all Song Tongming’s fault.” As soon as the three words “Song Tongming” were spoken, a window opened in the second-floor private room, revealing a pair of angry bear eyes. But Juan’er didn’t notice and just made a surprised sound: “Song Tongming? Did he beat you up?”

Zhu Kang spat: “Just him? Every time this fellow and I fight, don’t I always let him win? Last time I used only my left hand and slapped him a hundred times, making him cry and wail. If I hadn’t pitied him…” Before he finished speaking, a thick glob of spit flew over and hit the scholar with a “splat.” Zhu Kang still didn’t notice and sneered coldly: “Even ten of them I could kill.” As he spoke and bent down to scratch his foot, a stool flew over his head and crashed onto the road with a bang.

Juan’er heard him curse for a long time but still couldn’t understand the main point. Growing impatient, she shouted loudly: “Get to the important part! What exactly did Song Tongming do last night?” Zhu Kang sighed: “Sigh, this beast said he had found out the black-clothed men’s origins and wanted to settle last year’s score, so he went to find Su Ying overnight.”

As soon as the two words “Su Ying” came out, he seemed to realize he had spoken carelessly and quickly smiled apologetically, about to lower his head to drink tea when Qiong Fang had already paid attention and said in a deep voice: “What about Ying?” Zhu Kang smiled nervously: “Nothing… nothing…” Qiong Fang took a deep breath: “Are you hiding something from me?” Zhu Kang swallowed saliva and laughed dryly: “No… no…”

Qiong Fang raised her right hand and slammed it heavily on the table, shouting sternly: “Speak!” Looking at this Qiong Fang being so fierce – she was already like an empress dowager in her youth, what would she be like when old? Zhu Kang was terrified and said quietly: “Alright, I’ll tell you, but don’t get angry after hearing it.” He lowered his head and said timidly: “Su Ying… he jumped down from Wanfu Tower last night.”

Hearing this, Lu Yun couldn’t help but be greatly shocked. Qiong Fang also opened her mouth wide, her heart nearly stopping. Zhu Kang said quietly: “I heard it from Imperial Physician Yuan. I went to the Imperial Medical Bureau this morning to apply medicine, and he said Her Majesty the Empress summoned him to Hongluo Temple early in the morning to treat a young man’s injuries. Supposedly it was Su Ying.”

Su Ying’s reputation was extremely great, so for a moment the hall was filled with noisy chatter as everyone paid attention. Juan’er, hearing Zhu Kang’s account, also remembered and quickly said: “Right! Right! I also heard Master Fu Fan mention this! He said Su Ying didn’t know what medicine he had taken wrong to actually jump down from Wanfu Tower, breaking his leg. Sister Fang, you… you should go see him later.”

Seeing Qiong Fang emotionally agitated, her hand holding the tea bowl trembling slightly, Zhu Kang said quietly: “Young Pavilion Master, aren’t you getting married on February 17th? With the groom’s leg broken, your wedding date…” Before he could finish, Qiong Fang suddenly stood up and ran out of the hall. Juan’er cried in alarm: “Sister Fang! Wait!” Both shocked and angry, she kicked Zhu Kang and cursed: “Idiot! Bringing up whatever shouldn’t be mentioned!”

Just as she was about to chase after her, the tea master said: “Miss, you haven’t paid yet.” Juan’er turned around and kicked Zhu Kang again: “Why aren’t you paying?” Zhu Kang lowered his head with a bitter smile, not knowing how he had gotten tangled up with this witch. He took out his money pouch and was about to pay when he saw Juan’er turn back. He said in alarm: “What… what do you want to do? I… I already paid!”

Juan’er’s face reddened as she snorted and wrapped the sweet cake in her handkerchief before running out of the shop – apparently planning to eat while walking.

With both Qiong Fang and Juan’er gone, Lu Yun still stood there in confusion: “This isn’t right. When I left last night, Young Hero Su was clearly fine. How could he…” Last night’s battle at Wanfu Tower – at that time Wu Chongqing had taken away the magic blade, and he had been eager to pursue, so he hadn’t paid attention to Su Ying. Who would have thought that just this one oversight would lead to his accident?

After one night, the world was in chaos. Looking at Qiong Fang about to marry, the imperial uncle had beaten her for no apparent reason. Then this Qiong Fang had also inexplicably suddenly left home, and Su Ying had inexplicably jumped from Wanfu Tower. Was someone there stirring up trouble and causing havoc?

Lu Yun lowered his head in thought. Thinking and thinking, he suddenly remembered Su Ying’s gaze toward him last night and couldn’t help but shudder all over, finally realizing who the culprit was. Seeing Lu Yun standing like a wooden chicken, Marshal Jin Teng frowned: “Great Manager, what’s wrong? Did you eat something bad?”

Lu Yun smiled bitterly several times. Seeing Qiong Fang leave via the small path behind the tea hall, he also headed straight over. Marshal Jin Teng quickly said: “Great Manager! Where are you going?” Lu Yun said: “I’m going to find someone.” Worried that Qiong Fang might do something foolish, he was about to chase after her when suddenly he heard a creaking sound as the back door of the tea hall opened and a hand reached out toward his back. Marshal Jin Teng cried in alarm: “Great Manager! Be careful!”

Who would have expected an ambush behind the tea hall? Hearing this, Lu Yun was horrified and immediately leaped into the air. Marshal Jin Teng knew he couldn’t dodge and instantly flew up, throwing his whole body behind Lu Yun to take the blow, then crashed into the doorway.

Lu Yun was in mid-air, seeing Marshal Jin Teng fall. Both shocked and anxious, before he could land he was about to strike back when he heard laughter: “Lord Lu, how did you find our shop’s offerings to your taste?”

Lu Yun turned to look and couldn’t help but stare for a long while. The newcomer held a large teapot in his hands – it was actually the tea master from the shop! Gritting his teeth and about to step forward to fight, the person smiled and said: “Lord Lu doesn’t recognize me?” His body bowed forward, and precious light flowed on his robes. Lu Yun’s heart was greatly shocked as he finally recognized the person – it was none other than Shaolin’s former Grand Abbot, today’s honored guest of the Khan State, “Master Lin.”

Looking at this Monk Ling Zhi, his appearance had completely changed – his nose bridge had collapsed and his mouth had shrunk. Apparently he was in disguise. Lu Yun had been drinking tea for so long yet hadn’t recognized him. Seeing Lu Yun eager to speak, Ling Zhi smiled slightly and pointed to Marshal Jin Teng inside the door: “Don’t worry, I only pressed his pressure points – it won’t endanger his life.”

Lu Yun relaxed and then remembered Ling Zhi’s instructions when they parted earlier, saying he had opened a tea shop at the foot of Hongluo Mountain, and if Lu Yun encountered trouble these days, he could ask for his help. Unexpectedly, before he went to find him, this person with his vast supernatural powers had already come up the mountain.

Master Ling Zhi’s martial arts were profound, only slightly inferior to Yang Suguan and Qin Zhonghai. He was originally a martial arts extraordinary person. Seeing that he could hide all his unusual characteristics without a trace – this ability was something even “Literary Yang and Martial Qin” couldn’t match. Just as he was about to step forward to speak, Ling Zhi said quietly: “Lord Lu, there’s something behind you.” Lu Yun’s heart tightened. He remained calm and slowly turned to look, seeing a black-clothed person crouching on the Buddhist temple eaves directly behind him.

Lu Yun took a deep breath and said quietly: “This… this person is…” Ling Zhi said softly: “Don’t rush. Look toward the left forest, slowly.” Lu Yun glanced over and this time saw another figure in blue hiding in the forest, concealed extremely well, even more so than the black-clothed person from before.

Lu Yun felt slightly alarmed: “And this person is…” Ling Zhi whispered in his ear: “This person is the Furious Cang Grand Military Strategist, the Azure-Robed Scholar.” Lu Yun’s whole body shook greatly and he unconsciously stepped back. Ling Zhi smiled: “Lord Lu, please look ahead and don’t expose my identity.”

Lu Yun understood that this place was full of spies from both the court and Furious Cang. He pretended not to know the “tea master,” one gazing at distant mountains and one crouching to boil water, saying quietly: “Master, did you come here to receive the princess?” Ling Zhi turned his back to him and smiled: “Yes. The princess is in Hongluo Temple.”

Though Lu Yun had already anticipated this, hearing it confirmed still made his heart jump. He said again: “Master, do you know about this morning’s battle at Fucheng Gate?” Ling Zhi said: “I heard about it. It seems Wu Dingyuan held the gate, right?” Seeing him calm and collected, Lu Yun couldn’t help but cough: “Master, with the world about to be in chaos, do you Righteous Volunteers have any countermeasures?” Ling Zhi smiled: “What the Righteous Volunteers want to do, Lord Lu understands clearly in his heart – why ask when you already know?”

Lu Yun sighed, knowing he was referring to “assassinating Yang,” but the difficult problem still fell on his shoulders.

The stove fire blazed up with sparks flying. Ling Zhi fanned his fan and said: “Lord Lu has been hiding here all along – are you waiting for Miss Gu?” Lu Yun mumbled and lowered his head for a long while before finally nodding. Ling Zhi smiled: “She’s already gone.” Lu Yun felt slightly alarmed: “Gone… gone?” Ling Zhi said: “The person she wants to see, outsiders cannot see.”

Lu Yun said quietly: “Are you referring to Seventh Madam?” Ling Zhi turned around with a smile: “Go quickly. You’re already one step behind. Once Qin Zhonghai finds his woman, everything will be too late.”

Lu Yun was dazed for a long while: “Master, what do you mean by this…”

Ling Zhi picked up the water kettle and smiled: “In the great thousand worlds, through countless kalpas, heroes cannot become Buddha without women. Seventh Madam is one, Miss Gu is one – could it be that the princess is not also one? This thread of infatuation is the karmic retribution of the human world. These three lifetimes of causes and conditions are the six paths of reincarnation. To want to escape earthly suffering, one must first untie the knots in one’s own heart.”

Love, hate, resentment, separation, and suffering – everyone in this world has their own heart knots. Whether Gu Qianxi or Qiong Fang, even that giggling Juan’er and the life-or-death uncertain Seventh Madam – who doesn’t harbor secrets, who doesn’t have hidden feelings too difficult to express?

Lu Yun silently gazed into the distance and suddenly said: “Master, this disciple is in a sea of suffering – how should I save myself?”

Ling Zhi said: “When one’s body is ill, the heart knows it. The one who tied the bell must untie it. The sooner you recognize Miss Gu, the sooner you can break free from your shackles. But the more you try to dodge and hide, the more you’ll harm others and yourself.”

Lu Yun understood the hidden meaning in his words. Thinking of the two words “assassinate Yang,” he couldn’t help but shake his head and sigh: “Master, I won’t drag her into the water.” Ling Zhi smiled: “Don’t worry, no one wants you to drag her into the water. She may already be in the water.” He patted Lu Yun’s chest and took the opportunity to slip something into his robes, then walked into the hall.

Lu Yun was slightly stunned, not knowing what he had slipped to him. Reaching into his robes, he took out a folded paper. Looking carefully, it was a layout map of Hongluo Temple, from the emperor’s residential meditation room above to the grooms’ and firewood rooms below, with nothing omitted.

Lu Yun took a deep breath and thought: “He… he wants me to…” Just as he was thinking, the back door of the tea hall opened again and a black-clothed person walked out, saying bewilderedly: “Where is this? How did I get here?” Seeing Marshal Jin Teng again, Lu Yun couldn’t help but smile bitterly: “You fainted earlier.” Marshal Jin Teng said in alarm: “What? Was I hit by a carriage again?”

Other people’s black-clothed men could all fly over eaves and walls, but only Marshal Jin Teng kept fainting. Lu Yun smiled bitterly and didn’t dare take him wandering around, so he said: “You… rest here for now. I’m going to find someone and will be back shortly.” Marshal Jin Teng made an “oh” sound and was muttering to himself when he suddenly roared: “I’m not an old uncle!”

As soon as Lu Yun left, the black-clothed figure on the eaves suddenly leaped away. Looking at the direction, he was heading toward the back mountain – apparently not following Lu Yun but having other business. As for that blue-clothed figure, he had already disappeared, unknown when he had left.

At this time, not only was Lu Yun looking for Qiong Fang, but Juan’er was also desperately chasing after her. She was seen moving at great speed, having already reached the Red Hare Horse’s side, saying anxiously: “Big Red Face! Quick! Quick! My friend has disappeared again and we need to find her!” Just as she was about to mount the horse, suddenly her shoulder was patted and she heard someone say: “Juan…”

Juan’er angrily said: “Zhu Kang! Are you seeking death? How dare you scare me!” The patting on her back increased and shook desperately. Juan’er sneered: “I’m warning you first – if you dare pat me again, I’ll reward you with a sword.” The person behind her wouldn’t give up and shook even more violently. Juan’er finally couldn’t bear it and turned to look, shocked to see two heads behind her – the left one was a pale bald head, the right one had no features, a faceless ghost.

“Help!” Juan’er was scared out of her wits and jumped onto the Red Hare Horse, throwing her date paste cake far away and shouting: “Run quickly!”

The Red Hare Horse’s eyes flashed as it shot into the sky, caught the sweet cake in mid-air, and was just about to close its eyes to chew when another rose cake was thrown far out. In an instant, its four legs transformed into a red bolt of lightning chasing after the cake.

Rumbling, rumbling – horse hooves kicked up snow as scenery on both sides kept receding. The Red Hare Horse reached a downhill road and ran even faster. Juan’er still didn’t forget to cry: “Run! Faster!” The horse hooves thundered several li away, but Juan’er still felt it wasn’t enough. Just as she was about to throw more sweet cakes, suddenly her eyes turned and she realized that in her panic she had actually left Hongluo Mountain and arrived at a deep forest.

She didn’t know where this place was. Looking around, it was dark and gloomy below with no human traces. Juan’er became frightened and said tremblingly: “Quick, quick, let’s go back.” Just as she was about to turn the horse around, the Red Hare Horse wouldn’t move.

Tree branches rustled as if someone was coming. Juan’er was terrified and took out sweet cakes, saying tremblingly: “Run! Run quickly!” Just as she was urging, the Red Hare Horse’s massive body trembled slightly, then suddenly its front hooves gave way and it knelt toward the forest.

Juan’er cried loudly: “Big Red Face! What’s wrong with you?”

Just as she was crying, suddenly snorting sounds came from the forest – one exhale, one inhale – as if some wild beast was coming.

Juan’er trembled and hugged the Red Hare Horse. Stealing a glance, she saw four beast hooves appear in the snow. They looked like horse hooves but weren’t shod with iron, and the hooves had strange patterns as if wearing boots put on backwards. Juan’er was even more frightened, her teeth chattering. Following the beast hooves upward, she saw tufts of messy hair hanging down loosely.

The strange thing seemed to come from the underworld, gradually approaching and standing motionless. Juan’er was so frightened that tears flowed as she hugged the horse’s neck and closed her eyes waiting for death, when she heard a woman say: “Are you Juan’er?”

Juan’er was stunned – she hadn’t expected someone to recognize her. She slowly raised her head and first saw that strange horse. Looking at it, it had eyes that only tigers possess, but the eye sockets had white fur as if tears were flowing. Looking up further, she saw a woman with willow-leaf eyebrows and a willow-leaf blade, sitting on the horse and also looking down at her.

She had never seen such a woman – wearing a sword at her waist, fire helmet and red armor, with a quiver hanging on her legs. Juan’er opened her mouth wide: “Who… who are you?” The woman dismounted: “My surname is Yan, called Yan Er’niang.” She helped Juan’er up: “I’m Xiao Lubu’s wife.”

“Among men, Lubu; among horses, Red Hare” – in an instant, Juan’er opened her mouth wide, finally understanding whose mount this Red Hare Horse was. She stared blankly at the female general when suddenly someone patted her back again and said gently: “Juan…”

Juan’er was no longer afraid. She lowered her head and sighed softly: “Master.”

In one night, everything had returned – Master had arrived, and the Furious Cang heroes had also arrived. At this moment, Juan’er suddenly seemed to grow up. She appeared very calm and composed, as if she had been waiting for this moment for a very long time. She only lowered her head to stroke the Red Hare Horse and said quietly: “Was he caught?” The female general said: “Yes. He’s now in the Ministry of Justice awaiting execution.”

Juan’er said nothing, just patted Big Red Face and took out a rose cake from her bosom, planning to feed it a bite.

The Red Hare Horse didn’t want to eat anymore. It only lowered its head and went to the female general’s side, snorting softly as if it had found its own family.

Juan’er silently watched Yan Er’niang and handed the sweet cake to her: “It loves sweets. You… you feed it.” Yan Er’niang didn’t respond, just put her left hand on her hip and held her blade in her right hand. Juan’er said no more, just held her purchased sweet cakes and walked to the tree base to eat silently. Zhi Guan whispered: “Military Strategist, she’s…” The Azure-Robed Scholar said quietly: “Don’t disturb her. Let her cry.”

The sweet cakes weren’t sweet anymore. They were salty and bitter, mixed with tears and truly difficult to swallow when chewed.