Fang Zhun could only smooth things over: “Yuanyou, perhaps it involves Qingyuan’s internal affairs—not good to let outsiders hear. How about this, Feng Di, Hu Sha, let’s go outside to talk.”

Yuanyuan Yuanjun glared at him fiercely, then stamped her foot, saying angrily: “I’ll leave!” Then she huffily ran off, slamming the door with earth-shattering force, frightening the young attendants at the entrance to kneel en masse.

Fang Zhun sighed, fastened his sash properly, stood up and said: “Whatever the matter is, stand to speak. What message did your master have you bring?”

Feng Di said in a low voice: “Grand Master said for you to immediately return to Qingyuan, not permitted to continue willfully descending the mountain to wander privately. Grand Master is very worried about your health, saying the outside world has much impure energy. He fears your illness will worsen again.”

Fang Zhun stared blankly for a moment, saying: “That’s all? Nothing else?”

“The rest is a message for Junior Sister.”

Fang Zhun couldn’t help but reveal a trace of mocking smile, murmuring: “Junior Sister? Didn’t Master already drive Hu Sha down the mountain? Why use this old designation now?”

Feng Di shook his head, looking at him somewhat disapprovingly: “Grand Master didn’t mean it that way.”

Fang Zhun turned back to look at him with a smile, saying gently: “During these days I’ve been away from Qingyuan, you’ve worked hard. You seem to have grown much closer with your Grand Master—mentioning him every third sentence. I never knew this before.”

Feng Di’s face couldn’t help but redden, immediately followed by turning pale, stammering: “Master… this disciple…”

Fang Zhun smiled gently: “You’re not young anymore either. Show some bearing as the eldest disciple. Don’t always hang your head before elders. Master had you bring a message to Hu Sha—I probably also can’t hear it, right? Then I’ll go out.”

Feng Di said urgently: “Master! You really are…” He was simply speechless.

Fang Zhun blinked, simply sitting back down again, picking up tea to drink, smiling: “Since that’s the case, then speak. Your master absolutely won’t interrupt.”

Feng Di walked before Hu Sha, looking at her with some guilt, saying in a low voice: “Hu Sha, that day Eldest Senior Brother couldn’t help you. My heart has been very pained.”

Hu Sha forced a smile: “Eldest Senior Brother… you… don’t be so polite. Actually, leaving was quite good. I cultivated for a time—I couldn’t bring any more trouble to Qingyuan.”

Feng Di was silent for a moment, saying: “Grand Master has words for me to bring you. He hopes you’ll also return to Qingyuan, becoming a Qingyuan disciple again. He also deeply regrets his rash decision that day. He hopes you won’t hold past grievances and return under Qingyuan’s tutelage.”

This result was something Hu Sha never expected. She originally thought Jinting Zushi had Feng Di bring a message telling her to stay away from Fang Zhun, not to pester him. Who knew it was actually to have her return to the master’s tutelage. Thinking of this, her eyes couldn’t help but redden slightly, saying in a low voice: “How could I hate him? He’s completely different from Qingling Zhenjun.”

Feng Di smiled with relief: “That you can think this way—it doesn’t waste Grand Master making me travel ten thousand li to deliver this message. He also learned you obtained the Shuiliu Qin at Yingzhou. He entrusted me to say one more thing: the Shuiliu Qin is a divine artifact. Leaving it outside ultimately isn’t good. Moreover, now it requires Junior Sister’s living person’s life energy to nourish it. These five years are the critical period—if something goes wrong it won’t be good. His meaning is that you bring the Shuiliu Qin back to Qingyuan. With his immortal magic nourishing it, presumably healing the divine artifact would be much faster.”

Hu Sha couldn’t help but be slightly startled: “How does he know the Shuiliu Qin requires me to nourish it?”

Feng Di’s face showed a trace of helpless pain: “Though Grand Master’s body is at Qingyuan, his divine consciousness can know all under heaven’s affairs. The matter of Feng Yi—he was also extremely enraged… That very day he announced at Qingyuan, expelling him from the master’s tutelage… I… I still couldn’t stop it.”

Better he not mention Feng Yi. Mentioning Feng Yi, Hu Sha’s face darkened. She tightly held the Shuiliu Qin, as if seeking some support. After a very long time, she said in a low voice: “What’s past is past.”

Feng Di rarely revealed a trace of smile, his voice also becoming much gentler: “Since that’s so, then tomorrow we’ll set out to return to Qingyuan. Returning is always better than you drifting outside alone. For the divine artifact, the benefits also outweigh the drawbacks.”

Hu Sha was dazed for a while, then suddenly asked: “Eldest Senior Brother, if… I say I won’t return, what arrangements does Grand Master have?”

Feng Di was immediately stunned: “Not return? Why?”

She turned her face away, saying indifferently: “No particular reason. I’m just asking. If I decided to wander outside alone, unwilling to return, what would Grand Master do?”

Feng Di’s brows furrowed: “Absurd! What can you do alone? Even for the Shuiliu Qin damaged by you, you cannot be so selfish and reckless!”

Hu Sha said nothing, only lowering her head, staring at her own toes. After a long while, she said: “I don’t want to return.”

Feng Di looked at her coldly, as if not recognizing her, only feeling this person was ungrateful to the extreme. He said coldly: “So be it. If you’re unwilling to return, Grand Master won’t force you. However, the Shuiliu Qin must be brought back to Qingyuan by me. The divine artifact cannot be carried around carelessly by you.”

Hu Sha smiled, saying softly: “I finally understand Grand Master’s meaning. So he just wants the Shuiliu Qin. You plan to persuade me back to Qingyuan, then take the Shuiliu Qin away, right? That day Grand Master expelled me from the mountain, speaking so righteously and sternly. Now seeing I’ve obtained the Shuiliu Qin, he’s changed his attitude—how quickly.”

Feng Di couldn’t help becoming furious, his face iron-blue: “Hu Sha, you’re being insolent!”

She forcefully shook her head, suddenly looking at him seriously, saying: “Eldest Senior Brother, I won’t return. Qingyuan and I have nothing to do with each other. I never owed them anything, nor did they owe me. Please take back these words ‘being insolent.’ Also trouble you to bring words to Jinting Zushi: even taking the Shuiliu Qin away now would be useless. It now only recognizes me as its master. No matter how brilliant others’ immortal magic, there’s no way to make it recover. Since it’s my possession, when others forcibly try to take it, I naturally have grounds to refuse. Qingyuan wouldn’t stoop to dealing with me, a young woman, over snatching others’ belongings, would they?”

Feng Di’s face looked even worse. Probably he never imagined this usually obedient, naive little junior sister could speak such rebellious words. He didn’t know Hu Sha’s temperament contained a very resolute side—he simply had never seen it.

He opened his mouth to speak again, but heard Fang Zhun laugh lightly behind: “Well said! Hu Sha, Master supports you. Master also won’t return to Qingyuan. Only when the Shuiliu Qin recovers after five years and all miscellaneous matters are concluded will we discuss returning.”

Hu Sha raised her head, looking at him gratefully. Their gazes met in midair. Both felt warmth in their hearts, secretly each thinking: the two leaving together wasn’t a bad choice. Both novel and anticipated.

Feng Di said urgently: “Master, how can you also…”

Fang Zhun smiled as he interrupted: “Whether your master leaves or returns is your master’s business. If you’re worried, just consider it your master being concerned about the Shuiliu Qin, protecting her from outside. As for nonsense—just say two sentences less.”

Feng Di looked at Hu Sha, then at Fang Zhun. Finally understanding he absolutely couldn’t persuade them today. He could only grit his teeth, saying: “Since that’s the case, then… then this disciple will also accompany Master, together watching over the Shuiliu Qin!”

Fang Zhun laughed: “You’re already so old, still clinging to Master? Aren’t you afraid Grand Master will blame you?”

Feng Di’s face alternated between red and white, saying in a low voice: “In any case… this disciple will look after Master! And Junior Sister.”

Fang Zhun clapped his hands, stood to push open the window, letting starlight sprinkle onto the windowsill. After a long while, he finally said: “Good. Tomorrow we three master and disciples will leave this place, find a secluded spot, and live a hermit’s life once.”

Feng Di originally thought Fang Zhun was just momentarily excited, speaking for fun. This master had loved telling jokes from before, teasing people half to death, then slowly coaxing them—full of wicked humor.

Who knew this time he was wrong. Fang Zhun was serious.

When Yuanyuan Yuanjun came to see them off, her eyes were somewhat red and swollen. Though she’d applied rouge to cover it, one could still see she hadn’t slept all night—quite grief-stricken.

She stared fixedly at Fang Zhun, as if seeing him into her eyes and heart for the first time. After a very long while, she said in a low voice: “You must take care. Don’t make me worry about you from thousands of li away.”

Fang Zhun raised his hand to gently smooth back a strand of long hair hanging by her cheek, saying gently: “Old friends—why be sentimental? When I have time I’ll naturally come see you.”

Yuanyuan Yuanjun’s eyes reddened again. She forcibly held back tears, saying: “I don’t know why, but I always feel that once you leave this time, it’s as if I’ll never see you again. No matter what, if there’s any difficulty, whoever makes things difficult for you, just come find me. For friends, Yuanyou will go through fire and water.”

Fang Zhun smiled faintly, nodded, then said softly: “You’re still the same as before—not like a carefree immortal living leisurely, but rather fierce as fire in temperament.”

Yuanyuan Yuanjun’s lips moved, smiling bitterly, not knowing what to say.

Fang Zhun touched her head like touching a child, his voice very gentle: “Yet I quite like this temperament—very endearing.”

She drew in a breath, suppressing the sourness, instead revealing an arrogant smile, saying coquettishly: “Still say you like it! You clearly agreed to stay here three months—only a few days passed and you’re leaving. You never take our agreements seriously! What else can I do? I can only let you go!”

Fang Zhun laughed heartily, lifting Hu Sha who stood dazed beside him, leaping out from the Viewing Tower’s white jade window. His white robe hem rose up like wings. He waved at her: “Next time. Next time we’ll definitely stay at your place for a year or half. Then don’t drive us away!”

Yuanyuan Yuanjun rushed to the window. She only saw his form graceful as a swimming dragon, lightly turning in the air, stepping on auspicious clouds and flying away.

He said “we.” She could no longer endure it, calling out his name. Tears flowed down.

Not until they flew out of Changzhou, below them transforming into the vast sea, did Feng Di step on clouds to slowly catch up, saying in a low voice: “Master, are you really leaving Qingyuan? Never returning?”

Fang Zhun said in surprise: “Did your master say anything about never returning? Only said leaving for a period of time. How did you misunderstand so badly!”

Feng Di’s heart slightly relaxed, saying again: “No, this disciple just wanted to say—Xiao Guai is still left at Zhiyan Pavilion with no one to care for it.”

Hearing him mention Xiao Guai, Fang Zhun raised his hand to knock his head, sighing: “Indeed, actually forgot about it—deserves punishment. Feng Di, you return to Zhiyan Pavilion once, bringing Xiao Guai out. We’ll meet at Xuanzhou.”

Feng Di immediately agreed, then revealed a trace of hesitation, looking around as if discerning directions.

Fang Zhun sighed: “Directionally challenged, directionally challenged. Your master is also embarrassed for you. East is Shengzhou Qingyuan. After you find Xiao Guai, have it lead you to Xuanzhou. Counting on you, I’m afraid five years wouldn’t be enough.”

Feng Di, red-faced, quickly flew away. He hadn’t flown far when he heard Hu Sha say timidly: “Eldest Senior Brother, that’s south…”

His usually cold and proud image was probably ruined in an instant.

Feng Di said nothing, his ears red as agate. Finally he still went in the correct direction and flew far away.

From last night until now, Hu Sha’s mood had been gloomy. Only now did she reveal a trace of bright smile, saying softly: “Eldest Senior Brother hasn’t changed at all. People don’t dare feel at ease letting him go out alone.”

Fang Zhun gently released her, changing from holding her back collar to grasping her hand, standing shoulder to shoulder on the cloud head.

He smiled: “Seventy years—only this one thing hasn’t changed. When he first entered, he was much more adorable than now.”

Hu Sha looked at him with great interest, anticipating he’d say more about Feng Di’s childhood anecdotes. Fang Zhun indeed complied readily, saying: “Do you know why I took a ‘Di’ character for his name? Feng Di’s family background is quite extraordinary—a hereditary family from Zuzhou specializing in ritual music. They once had the honor of playing music for the Queen Mother of the West. Because the family name contained a ‘Di’ character, when he entered the master’s tutelage, his father requested the Daoist name include this character, thus ‘Feng Di.'”

“This child was taciturn when young, hiding in his room all day fiddling with those musical instruments. I coaxed him for nearly a year before coaxing him to be obedient. During that period, he truly obeyed everything I said, looking at me with eyes full of worship… Sigh, how did he become this old-fashioned rigid appearance now? I miss those days so much.”

Hu Sha secretly thought: Master treats her so well probably because she’s similar to Eldest Senior Brother when he was young—obeying everything he says, worshiping him terribly. Really a vain master!

“However, Feng Di never took cultivation seriously from childhood. More precisely, his qualifications also weren’t first-rate. Initially I worried after a hundred years he couldn’t establish an altar and teach. Until Feng Yi came.”

Fang Zhun suddenly mentioned this name. He himself also seemed to freeze for a moment, stopping there without continuing.

Hu Sha lowered her head, saying softly: “Master, he… what was he like before? Can you speak of it?”

Fang Zhun was dazed for a while before continuing: “Feng Yi… when I saw him, he was exactly seventeen years old, sick and nearly dying. So I brought him back to Qingyuan to heal. He truly was a clever child. Just lying by the window watching me teach Feng Di formulas—I recited three times, Feng Di still hadn’t memorized it, but he’d already recited it back. We both were very surprised. At that time I had the thought of taking him as a disciple. However, he didn’t agree, only saying he wanted to find Qingling Zhenjun, telling me the reason for coming here… just like you then. I became very suspicious, telling this to Master. But he ordered me to immediately drive Feng Yi away. For the first time I defied Master, forcibly keeping him to take as disciple. For this, Master refused to see me for many years.”

Hu Sha said nothing. If he knew Feng Yi would later become like this, would he still insist on taking disciples? Feng Yi, oh Feng Yi—truly let him down, let down that loving heart.

Fang Zhun’s brows slightly relaxed, revealing a smile: “After Feng Yi entered, learning anything was extremely fast. In less than two years he nearly caught up with Feng Di. You must know, Feng Di entered twenty years earlier than him. Having his own junior brother about to surpass himself obviously greatly struck his self-esteem. Feng Di’s temperament is also quite proud—only then did he begin cultivating seriously. The two chased each other—ultimately Feng Yi was still slightly superior. If you hadn’t come, I originally planned to teach him everything I knew unreservedly. As matters stand now, can only say the fate between him and me is exhausted—no other solution.”

Hu Sha couldn’t help but sigh lightly. That he became like this—was it his own fault or Qingling Zhenjun’s fault? Really impossible to say clearly.

“Hu Sha, whether person or immortal, in one’s life one will always encounter some things impossible to resist, where one must lower one’s head. I hope even when you lower your head, you’ll be worthy of your own heart.” He said in a low voice, eyes staring fixedly at her. “Don’t become like Feng Yi. Him being like this… actually equals lowering his head—the cruelest kind. Do you understand?”

Hu Sha looked at his eyes, half-understanding as she nodded. For a moment thinking of Mo Ming who died miserably—he complied, yet still died in the end. For a moment also thinking of Feng Yi—he resisted, became a demon, became incomparably terrifying.

This path—how should one walk it?

Xuanzhou had many mountains—scenery either beautiful or precipitous, overwhelming to the eyes.

The mountain before them couldn’t even be called a “mountain,” because from top to bottom it was composed of sharp rocks, protruding east and receding west, standing between heaven and earth like a strange yet sharp dagger wanting to cut open the sky. One glance and one’s spirit was seized, leg muscles involuntarily trembling.

Precisely because no one could climb up, they couldn’t see the beautiful scenery at the mountain top. Unlike the steep mountain terrain, the peak was very flat, covered with various verdant green trees. The rocks at the highest point were thickly covered with ice and snow. After being washed by sunlight it transformed into waterfalls, rushing down from rock crevices like flying pearls and splashing jade. Above the huge water pool year-round hung rainbows formed from condensed water vapor—extremely beautiful.

Beside the water pool were planted several beds of apricot flowers. But this wasn’t the spring-like-all-year Zhiyan Pavilion—it hadn’t yet reached the time when apricot blossoms bloomed. One could only see bare tree trunks. In the apricot grove, like at Zhiyan Pavilion, were built several tiled houses. Before the tiled houses were also two thatched cottages—because of Fang Zhun’s quirk of only loving to live in thatched cottages, not loving tiled ones.

When Hu Sha first arrived here, she never imagined the mountaintop scenery would be so similar to Zhiyan Pavilion—even having the houses and apricot flowers. Not until Fang Zhun explained did she understand. Originally he’d built a similar villa-like place here long ago. When idle, coming out alone to play, he liked staying here—quiet and elegant.

Same as living at Zhiyan Pavilion, that middle tiled house was Hu Sha’s room. Pushing the door in, the arrangement was no different from Zhiyan Pavilion. Only the mountaintop had heavy fog—bedding was all damp. Sleeping on it was very uncomfortable.

Hu Sha half-asleep and half-awake muddled through one night. Getting up the next morning, her whole body ached. With a bitter face she washed up. Going out the door she saw Fang Zhun meditating under a tree. Not daring to disturb him, she tiptoed past, planning to go fetch some water from the pool to store. Suddenly she heard him say: “Hu Sha, from today you’ll cultivate following me. I’ll personally teach you.”

Her heart immediately filled with joy. She quickly came over smiling: “Really? That’s wonderful! Master teaches so much better than Eldest Senior Brother. Last time with cloud-riding, you were the one who taught me!”

Fang Zhun opened his eyes, smiling: “That didn’t count as teaching. Starting today is truly teaching you. Come, sit.”

Hu Sha’s scalp immediately went numb. Not daring to disobey, she could only slowly sit down, about to twist her two legs into a pretzel shape, arranging the “lotus sitting posture.”

Fang Zhun said oddly: “What are you doing? Treating your legs as noodles?”

Isn’t lotus sitting required? Hu Sha looked at him helplessly. With great effort she arranged both legs properly, the pain making stars burst before her eyes.

“You’re initially cultivating. Arranging this posture will only distract you—haste makes waste. Come, relax. Casually find a sitting method you like.” Fang Zhun patted her knee. Suddenly as if burned, he quickly withdrew, no longer touching her once, only closing his eyes again, saying: “After sitting properly, listen to me speak, regulate your breathing…”

At that time, his gentle voice was like spring breeze, blowing into her ears, blowing all the way throughout her entire body. Every part relaxed and extended—an indescribable comfort. Hu Sha involuntarily relaxed, following his step-by-step instructions. Slowly, for the first time, she truly entered meditation.

Opening her eyes again, she felt what her eyes saw was very different from usual. Everything seemed filled with vital energy—even a wildflower under the tree that had just sprouted buds was full of vigorous life.

Hu Sha slowly examined the familiar yet strange scenery before her. Her body also had indescribable comfort and relaxation. For a moment she didn’t want to speak, only wanting to look more, experience more of this novel feeling.

A ticklish feeling came to her temple—like something furry rubbing. She turned her head, meeting a pair of round blue eyes. Immediately startled—it was the snow lion Xiao Guai!

It narrowed its eyes, haughtily looking down at her. After a while, it finally extended its tongue to lick her face with a swipe—counting as greeting.

Hu Sha covered the licked area with both laughter and tears, murmuring: “Xiao Guai, you came… Ah, has Eldest Senior Brother returned?”

She leaped up from the ground, looking around. Indeed she saw Feng Di and Fang Zhun standing before the thatched cottage talking. She quickly ran over.

“Eldest Senior Brother, you returned so early. Master and I thought you’d need several days to find this place.” She said with a smile.

Feng Di had been speaking of something with Fang Zhun earlier, expression grave. Now seeing Hu Sha, he forced a trace of smile: “Because I saw Hu Sha was meditating, I didn’t disturb you. Your cultivation progress is good now. In the future you must maintain this diligence.”

With that, he clasped hands to Fang Zhun again: “Master, henceforth the responsibility of supervising and teaching Junior Sister—let this disciple bear it. If there are omissions or improprieties, you can then give guidance.”

Still having Eldest Senior Brother teach? Though Hu Sha didn’t say it aloud, her face already couldn’t hide her disappointed expression. Not that he taught poorly—just that in her heart she more wanted to be close to Fang Zhun. Toward this iceberg-like Eldest Senior Brother she was somewhat fearful.

Fang Zhun smiled: “No need. Your master can’t let her call ‘Master’ for nothing yet teach her nothing. Moreover, these five years are very important for Hu Sha, and also very important for you. Best not be distracted by other matters—concentrate on cultivation above all.”

Feng Di looked at him once, lips slightly moving, saying softly: “But Grand Master said your health…”

“Your master’s health is excellent.” Fang Zhun blinked at him. “Could Feng Di want to see personally?”

Poor Feng Di’s face immediately flushed red. He quickly clasped hands in salute and turned to leave, saying: “This disciple… this disciple will go feed the snow lion.” With that, he fled like smoke.

Fang Zhun smiled at Hu Sha, saying gently: “Meditation effect was good. Your heart is pure and clear—easier to eliminate distracting thoughts. Better than your master imagined.”

Praised like this, even Hu Sha’s neck reddened. She could only grin foolishly.

Fang Zhun leaned against the doorframe, saying softly: “Go. Following the method I told you, sit for another hour. This afternoon come find me—I’ll teach you other things.”

Hu Sha ran off happily. She was filled with hope and vitality. The future, to her, always had more light than darkness.

Fang Zhun felt himself quite infatuated with this gentle liveliness. He couldn’t help wanting to look more, as if he wouldn’t be able to see it soon. Not until she closed the door and could no longer be seen did he slowly walk into his own room. The wooden door gently closed behind him.

He coughed twice, using his sleeve to press against his lips. When he released it, there was a patch of deep red.

The sky was as if dyed with ink—wind, rain, thunder and lightning all mingling.

In this kind of weather, those staying at inns would actually be more numerous. Thus a small roadside inn kept its lights on. The innkeeper propped himself at the counter drowsily, waiting before closing to have a few more customers arrive.

The door was suddenly pushed open. A person wearing a straw raincoat swept in with wind and rain. Water still dripped continuously from the bamboo hat. As if very exhausted, he sat gasping in a chair, yanking off the raincoat, causing the innkeeper to exclaim in surprise: “Lao Wu, how did you rush back today? Didn’t you say the mountain collapsed?”

That person finally steadied himself with difficulty, saying loudly: “I… I encountered a fairy maiden!”

With this clamor, though not many people sat in the first floor small hall, for a moment they all looked toward him. That person gestured animatedly, obviously extremely excited: “Truly a fairy maiden! Originally a large section of Bi Mountain collapsed—completely impossible to pass. A group of people were all trapped there. Later that fairy maiden came, recited a few incantations, and the mud and earth all moved aside. Truly great divine power! Great compassion!”

Thus someone asked: “What did that fairy maiden look like? What name? In the future we can build a shrine to worship her.”

That person was startled, smiling very sheepishly: “This… we all forgot to ask. Mainly it was the first time seeing a fairy maiden—we were all dumbfounded. However, I still remember the fairy maiden’s immortal countenance. Face like the full moon, brows like willow leaves, wearing five-colored feathered robes, behind her followed two beautiful young attendants—such graceful bearing!”

Everyone in the inn listened with great interest, probably all envying he could personally see the fairy maiden.

Leaning in the southern corner sat a cotton-clothed young woman drinking tea. Hearing him speak thus, she nearly sprayed out a mouthful of tea. Looking down at herself, she couldn’t find where the “five-colored feathered robes” and “beautiful young attendants” were. As for face like full moon, brows like willow leaves—even more unreliable.

Seeing the inn crowd listening interestedly, she couldn’t help but pull at the purple silk scarf around her neck, revealing most of her face—skin pure white, bright rolling eyes, revealing both charming naivety and a trace of allure.

Calling over the server to settle the tea bill, she held a cloth bag in her arms containing who-knows-what, standing to go upstairs.

Passing by that person, she deliberately turned to look once. Seeing he didn’t recognize her, she smiled and went to the guest room to sleep. Walking all the way to the staircase turn, she still heard that person clamoring about “voluptuous and bewitching,” “peerless elegance”—making one want to laugh.

Closing the room door, Hu Sha removed the scarf from her neck. Originally she covered her face doing good deeds not wanting people to recognize her. But now discovering this was completely unnecessary—even if she brazenly stood before that person face-to-face, he still might not recognize the “fairy maiden” who opened the road was her. Moreover, she wasn’t yet an immortal.

She took the comb to sit on the bed edge combing her hair. Because of the wind and rain outside, the Shuiliu Qin in the cloth bag sensed the water vapor. As if very happy, it emitted faint ringing sounds.

Untying the cloth bag, the Shuiliu Qin presented itself before her eyes. Hu Sha picked it up, doing as she had every night before sleep for five years—lightly stroking it with her hand.

This qin was somewhat different from when first seen. Because it revived absorbing her blood and flesh vital energy, below the ice-blue jade showed a layer of blood color—appearing and disappearing as if alive. Being stroked by Hu Sha also seemed a joyful thing. It trembled slightly in her palm, divine light flowing—as if wanting to speak.

Hu Sha stroked for a long time, only touching four strings. In the end she still couldn’t help but sigh, saying in a low voice: “Five years already. Qin, oh qin—when exactly do you plan for that fifth string to appear? If you don’t come out soon, the second heavenly punishment will descend. This time I’ll truly be burned to death by heavenly fire.”

The Shuiliu Qin naturally couldn’t speak. It could only tremble innocently there. Trembling for a long time without her reacting, it lowered its flag and stopped making noise.

Hu Sha tossed aside the comb, holding the Shuiliu Qin and immediately fell into deep sleep. Just about to fall asleep, she heard someone lightly knocking on the window outside, calling her: “Miss Hu Sha, Miss Hu Sha.”

She groggily sat up to open the window. But she saw a pitch-black figure crouching on the windowsill, soaked from head to toe, water still dripping from the hat. Looking carefully it was a young man, devastatingly handsome with a red teardrop mole below his eyes—as if he might cry for you to see at any moment.

Seeing him, Hu Sha smiled in greeting: “Ah, it’s White Paper Person Number Three! Looking for me about something?”

This name was given by Hu Sha. Because Fang Zhun had numerous white paper people, all without names, each responsible for different domains. For instance, that old-fashioned little girl who looked after Hu Sha last time specialized as a maid—Hu Sha called her White Paper Person Number One.

Number Two was that golden-armored divine being. Though he wasn’t actually a white paper person but a higher-level existence, Hu Sha couldn’t distinguish clearly. Thus the dignified Divine General was named “White Paper Person Number Two.” Reportedly he cried to Fang Zhun several times over this.

As for this devastatingly handsome man—looking very coquettish, his function was merely delivering messages. Because his footwork was extremely fast, crossing mountains and rivers required only an instant. Hu Sha named him “White Paper Person Number Three.” He actually thought it very distinctive and was extremely pleased.

White Paper Person Number Three struggled to furrow his brows. Peach blossom eyes began condensing water vapor again—actually he was just thinking how to deliver the message. After a while, he said: “Fang Zhun had me bring words. If you don’t return within half a double-hour, he won’t take medicine and will burn all those medicinal herbs.”

What? Hu Sha jumped up, nearly smashing the Shuiliu Qin.

“This… there’s a violent storm. I only said to stay outside one night. Master wouldn’t go this far!” She was extremely depressed, quickly putting on clothes and shoes.

Number Three looked at her sympathetically: “Fang Zhun is also worried about you. In five years you’ve descended the mountain a countable number of times. Seeing the Shuiliu Qin about to be repaired, there may still be people coming to snatch it. You alone outside is very dangerous. Better hurry back.”

Hu Sha’s face darkened as she picked up the bundle, pouting: “Isn’t it because he’s too lazy to even collect the medicinal herbs for treating his own illness? That’s why I went out to help him collect medicine! Look, such a big bundle—enough for him to eat for a year or half.”

Complain as she might, she truly feared Fang Zhun would burn the medicinal herbs and never take medicine again. Given this person’s willfulness level, he could truly do it. Immediately she pinched a hand seal, rose on clouds, rushing back urgently.

Fang Zhun’s health had obviously declined these past years. Though he never admitted it, once he coughed too severely, vomiting blood, and was caught by Hu Sha on the spot—could no longer hide it.

He’d had a serious illness in his teens, nearly dying. Since then he’d been frailer than ordinary people. Jinting Zushi wanting him to stay at Qingyuan was understandable—after all, the immortal mountain had abundant spiritual energy, greatly beneficial to his health. Last time being struck by Taowu, not long after, encountering heavenly fire descending—though the injuries were later healed, it was still no small drain on his body. Plus losing the immortal mountain spiritual energy’s protection, when it acted up it was truly vicious.

Hu Sha cried and pestered for a long time before asking about the medicinal herbs from his mouth. Before becoming an immortal he’d always taken medicine. After becoming immortal, finding the medicine unbearably bitter, he secretly threw it away. Being lazy and not caring much about his own health, quite arrogant, always feeling he couldn’t die—thus refusing medicine. If not for Hu Sha running thousands of li specifically to collect medicine for him, personally brewing it and begging him to take it, he probably would still be willfully enduring.

Fortunately, the medicinal herbs ultimately were effective. In the past year or more, his complexion obviously improved, coughing also gradually stopped. Only one trouble—coaxing him to take medicine daily was most headache-inducing. Previously she didn’t know Fang Zhun had so many quirks—fearing bitterness, fearing heat, fearing medicine smell, willful to an outrageous degree.

This time again saying to burn the medicinal herbs—truly made one gnash teeth.

Hu Sha, carrying a belly full of sullen air, rushed back to the mountaintop. From head to toe completely soaked, not bothering to wipe even once, huffily knocking on his door.

Shortly after, Fang Zhun opened the door holding a candlestick, smiling.

“Master! You’re too willful!” Hu Sha’s very first sentence was this. “If you want me to hurry back, just casually give an order. Why scare me with not taking medicine?”

Fang Zhun looked at her innocently: “Your master just had a dream seeing you snatched away by Qingling Zhenjun. My heart had some bad premonition, so I had Number Three quickly fetch you. Now seeing you’re fine, Master’s heart is truly gratified.”

Typical topic diversion! Hu Sha looked at him helplessly. She wasn’t that naive little girl from before anymore. Did he think such boring lies could deceive her?

She placed the soaking bundle on the table, saying in a low voice: “These are newly collected medicinal herbs. I’ll go brew medicine for you.”

Fang Zhun lightly pulled her sleeve: “No rush. Look at your appearance—like just fished from water. First dry off—don’t get sick.”

He grabbed her sleeve to wipe her face, brushing aside hair stuck to her cheeks. Hu Sha glared at him vigilantly: “Master, the medicine must be taken. Delaying won’t help.”

He smiled helplessly: “You were so adorable before. How are you becoming like Feng Di now? Master really misses the former little Hu Sha.”

Hu Sha pouted without speaking. Fang Zhun simply stopped talking too, wiping her face dry, also brushing her soaking wet hair behind her ears. Looking at her for a while, he suddenly said softly: “Hu Sha, you’ve grown up. Your height has also increased.”

She was startled: “…Have I?”

Fang Zhun nodded, leading her before the bronze mirror. Both their figures reflected within. Her height nearly matched his now. Because five years had passed, she was now a twenty-year-old young woman. The former green childishness had long vanished, her figure also becoming gracefully slender. Probably no one would take her as Fang Zhun’s younger sister anymore.

Fang Zhun looked fixedly for a while, saying softly: “You will grow up, but Master will never age.”

Hu Sha turned to look at him, somewhat puzzled: “Isn’t not aging very good? No one wants to age.”

Fang Zhun smiled faintly, saying gently: “Yet sometimes I feel being able to age is also quite a good thing.”

In the bronze mirror, his pitch-black pupils kept looking at her. In the room, candlelight suddenly popped lightly. Hu Sha woke as from a dream. Her face involuntarily reddened—as if afraid getting too close would profane him. She quickly retreated.

“Master, you rest first. I’ll go brew medicine.” She hurriedly walked out.

After brewing the medicine, it had to cool slightly, then add some honey for flavoring before Fang Zhun would drink it.

Hu Sha brought the medicine into her own room, placing it on the windowsill waiting for it to cool. For a moment she felt tides surging in her heart—like joy, also like emotion. She couldn’t help pulling out paper and brush, drawing two little figures on jade-plate paper—the left one grabbing a sleeve, wiping sweat for the right one. Beside it she wrote a line: The 387th time drawing close to him. Eyelashes very long, pupils very black, inside reflecting two of me.

Having written it, her heart felt very sweet. The resentment of rushing back in midnight rain had long since run off somewhere. If in the future he would always wipe her face like this, even enduring one hundred years of continuous rain, she’d be willing.

Hu Sha bit the brush tip just wanting to smile. Suddenly also thinking of how he said he’d rather be able to age.

Thus picking up the brush to add another line below: Eternal life and immortality, not as good as carrying hands growing old together. After writing it felt too direct—like wishful delusion. She quickly crumpled the paper into a ball, tossing it in the brazier to burn.

After the medicine cooled, Hu Sha mixed in some honey, then carefully carried it to Fang Zhun’s thatched cottage.

He hadn’t slept yet. Wearing an outer garment, leaning at the bedhead, using scissors to cut new white paper people. He’d already cut three, placing them on the table to lightly blow a breath. The three figures immediately stood up as if alive, using hands and feet to jump down from the table. Landing on the ground they instantly grew tall, transforming into two men and one woman, each with refined features, kneeling before him—very docile.

“Hu Sha, name them.” He took the medicine, taking a tiny sip, immediately frowning in disgust.

Hu Sha readily pointed from left to right: “White Paper Person Number Seventeen, White Paper Person Number Eighteen, White Paper Person Number Nineteen.”

Ignoring the black lines on those three faces, Fang Zhun raised his thumb: “Truly good names. So there are already nineteen—quite many.” Speaking, he backhandedly was about to pour out the remaining medicine.

Hu Sha’s eyes were sharp and hands quick. She grabbed his wrist: “Master, you must drink it all!”

He immediately revealed his standard innocent expression: “My hand just slipped.”

Believing him would be strange! Hu Sha widened her eyes, not until seeing him drink the medicine without leaving a drop did she nod with satisfaction.

Fang Zhun sighed behind: “Harsh, rigid, cold-blooded, heartless.”

Anyway the medicine was already drunk. Whatever he said didn’t matter.

Hu Sha placed the empty bowl on the table, coming over to lower the bed curtain for him, saying in a low voice: “Master, it’s late. After drinking medicine, sleep.”

Fang Zhun didn’t answer, only taking the scissors in hand to play with ceaselessly. Suddenly asking: “Has Feng Di returned?”

She was startled: “Didn’t Eldest Senior Brother take on a demon-elimination task from the Military Division? Won’t return this quickly.” Moreover, he didn’t know directions. Each time going out, ten days to half a month couldn’t find his way back.

Fang Zhun sighed: “Then only your master can personally go forth.”

His two fingers pinched together, ordering: “You three—go below the mountain to welcome the guests up. Don’t do it excessively.”

White Paper Persons Seventeen through Nineteen immediately answered yes, in the blink of an eye disappearing from the room.

Hu Sha was utterly confused, asking blankly: “Master, guests are coming?”

Fang Zhun propped his chin, lazily nodding: “Calculating the days, the Shuiliu Qin’s last string will appear soon. These uninvited guests will probably become increasingly numerous. Having them suffer some hardship is good.”

Hu Sha quickly turned: “I’ll also go look.”

He rapidly extended his hand to pull her back. Using too much force, Hu Sha staggered, crashing headfirst into him. At her nose she only smelled a faint elegant scent—medicinal herbs mixed with another fragrance, intoxicating. One side of her cheek rubbed against the slightly bare patch of his chest. Immediately her face flushed red, at a complete loss.

Fang Zhun supported her shoulders, lifting her up, saying: “Don’t go. The Shuiliu Qin is on you. Everything requires caution. Don’t let others take advantage.”

Hu Sha silently shrank back a few inches, nodding in agreement.

Right at this awkward moment, White Paper Person voices came from outside the window: “Sir, the evildoing demon has been brought up.”

Fang Zhun pushed open the window. He saw Number Eighteen holding something soft and limp in hand—entirely silver-white, slightly shrinking, clearly not doing well. He revealed a smile, saying softly: “I’ve seen this small snake demon. Qingling Zhenjun has two acolytes by his side, named Mingwu and Mingwen. Mingwen was killed by Feng Yi at the old stone mountain hall. This snake demon was originally his spirit beast—no great abilities. Coming this time, presumably to probe our situation.”

Number Eighteen lowered his hands awaiting his instructions. Fang Zhun shook his head: “Throw it down the mountain. It also can barely protect itself.”

Number Eighteen just raised his hand to toss the snake demon down the cliff when he suddenly said “eh?” as if discovering something strange. Immediately after, that dying snake demon suddenly extended bolt upright like a spear. With a “tsu” sound, it violently pierced his chest. Number Eighteen didn’t even grunt, abruptly falling to the ground, instantly transforming into a tattered white paper figure.

That white snake penetrated straight through the white paper figure, forcibly piercing into hard rock. Gradually becoming thicker and longer, finally from the tail end it swept open with a swoosh—like a peacock spreading its tail, splitting into two snow-white wings, slowly beating in the air. The part piercing the rock also retracted. Looking carefully, it was actually its long beak.

A white snake suddenly transformed into a massive demon bird. Even Fang Zhun was somewhat surprised: “Actually having another great demon possess the snake demon’s body! This magic technique will incur divine punishment!”

Before his words fell, the demon bird’s wings spread. Like a hurricane passing, the surroundings immediately had flying sand and rolling stones, smoke billowing—making eyes unable to open. This demon’s might was naturally many times more formidable than the snake demon just now. Numbers Seventeen and Nineteen joining forces to deal with it struggled greatly, often being fanned far away by its great wings.

Fang Zhun saw Hu Sha lowering her head rubbing her eyes—clearly sand had gotten in. He looked up at the culprit stirring up sand and wind, then glanced down at the scissors in hand. With a flick, he lightly tossed them out.

The scissors suddenly became enormous in midair, glittering with golden light. They clamped onto the demon bird’s back, actually making it unable to move. Only hearing a “crack” sound, the two massive wings on its back were actually cut off by the scissors—no longer able to raise any dust. Numbers Seventeen and Nineteen seized the opportunity to attack from left and right. Very quickly the demon bird collapsed on the ground, no longer having any resistance strength.

Hu Sha didn’t know how much sand had gotten in her eyes. The pain was terrible. No matter how she rubbed it didn’t work. Both eyes red, tears streaming down continuously.

Fang Zhun lifted her chin, leaning close to look carefully, saying softly: “Don’t rub. They’re all red.”

He lightly placed his hand on her eyelid. Blowing a breath against the back of his hand, then lowering it: “Better now?”

Hu Sha sniffled, silently nodding. Truly deadly—right now her face was full of tears, probably also snot. So embarrassing. Yet Master’s face leaned so close! With a swoosh her face flushed red again. Anxiously she quickly lowered her head, afraid he’d see through.

Fang Zhun was completely oblivious, leaning even closer: “Let me see if it’s better. Raise your face.”

Hu Sha was so anxious her hair was about to catch fire. She kept saying: “It’s fine, it’s fine! I’m better, really better!”

Fang Zhun was about to speak when he suddenly heard a low, gentle, lazy voice in the courtyard: “Master, little Hu Sha.”

Hu Sha, upon first hearing that voice, felt all the blood in her body freeze.

How long had it been? How long since she’d heard this person’s voice?

She slowly turned her head. In her ears she could even hear the stiff, astringent sounds of neck muscles. Slowly turning, slowly raising her eyes. Then she saw that flower-robed youth standing in the courtyard.

The billowing smoke around slowly settled. He looked exactly the same as five years ago—wearing gaudy robes, hands lazily tucked in sleeves, features like a painting, expression carrying slight frivolity and indifference—as if caring about nothing.

Only that head of once incomparably beautiful black hair had now become the color of burning flames, making her feel very strange, very strange.

Hu Sha drew in a thin breath. She felt Fang Zhun tightly gripping her hand: “Don’t be afraid. It’s not the real person. It’s a substitute.”

What real person? What substitute? She hadn’t yet reacted. She only felt bone-deep cold inexplicably rising in her heart. That person standing like this—same posture, same expression—yet she felt completely unable to recognize him. Just like at the old stone mountain hall when he suddenly used death to threaten her—that instant.

Unable to distinguish whether it was fear, disgust, or perhaps alienation.

Feng Yi slightly lowered his head, saying gently: “Master, this disciple’s substitute technique—how well have I learned it? Shouldn’t disgrace the master’s tutelage, right?”

Fang Zhun smiled indifferently: “Not bad. Learned very well. You’re the cleverest child I’ve seen. However, using the substitute on Qingling Zhenjun’s demon—what’s your purpose?”

Feng Yi raised his head to stare fixedly at him. Eyes slightly turning, he looked toward Hu Sha. His expression became very gentle: “Five years without seeing—though this disciple’s body didn’t follow Master, my heart constantly worried. Thinking the Shuiliu Qin’s recovery day also draws near, those despicable demons and monsters will probably come disturb Master and Junior Sister’s quiet cultivation. Thus I specially came to investigate. Seeing both of you well, this disciple’s heart is very gratified.”

Fang Zhun nodded: “You still have some filial heart. Not wasting my teaching you once.”

Feng Yi curved his lips, walking forward two steps. Numbers Seventeen and Nineteen guarding on both sides monitoring his movements immediately acted, attacking from front and back, attempting to block his advance.

In a flash of lightning, without seeing Feng Yi make any movement, Numbers Seventeen and Nineteen simultaneously flew backward, crashing hard to the ground, instantly transforming to original form—white paper figures, moreover the head and body parts were severed.

Hu Sha, seeing him so fierce, inevitably felt chilled in heart, involuntarily retreating two steps. Seeing this, Fang Zhun soothingly squeezed her hand, indicating she needn’t fear.

“Feng Yi, you came too early.” He said in a low voice, even with some regret. “The Shuiliu Qin isn’t yet repaired. Why can’t you restrain yourself?”

Feng Yi walked all the way to the window, then stopped. Same as before, lazily propping his chin with his hand, leaning on the windowsill.

Like a painting, yet a chilling painting.

He said: “I didn’t come today to snatch the Shuiliu Qin. I wanted… to come see Master and Junior Sister, incidentally saying two sentences to Junior Sister.”

Hu Sha could no longer endure it. She said loudly: “I have nothing to say to you! That day you forced me to get the Shuiliu Qin, treating me as an ant. Now seeing the Shuiliu Qin repaired by me, you run over to reminisce with me. Do you think I’m a fool? I won’t give the Shuiliu Qin to Qingling Zhenjun, much less to you! Don’t dream!”

Feng Yi smiled bitterly: “Aiya, aiya, little Hu Sha is angry. How has your temper changed so much? You were very obedient before.”

Fang Zhun quite agreed, secretly nodding.

Hu Sha used all her body’s strength to glare at him fiercely—as if only this way she wouldn’t fearfully turn and flee. She forced herself to stand here, facing him directly.

Feng Yi suddenly leaned close. His eyelashes nearly poked her nose. Hu Sha held her breath, gritting teeth and refusing to retreat, letting him examine her carefully. Finally sighing lightly: “You’ve grown up. Much more beautiful than when you were small.”

She still didn’t speak. But her fingers began trembling slightly—seemingly even her hair ends trembled.

His eyes were pitch black as ink, gaze deep as a valley—never seeing the end, unable to guess what he was thinking. Whether planning to scheme against you or planning to cherish you. Each time what she thought was cherishing was actually his scheming. Each time what she thought was scheming was actually greater scheming.

Before this person, she’d rather turn to ash than think—there truly was that moment once when she wanted to abandon everything and leave together with him. Even if only able to live five years, it didn’t matter.

“Hu Sha, these five years I often thought of you, wondering what you’d become. Now seeing—even better than I imagined.” He raised his hand as if to touch her. Finally only using fingertips to trace along her outline—like caressing a lover’s skin, gentle yet lingering.

“Did you think of Second Senior Brother?” He asked very gently, even carrying a trace of pleading flavor.

She knew very clearly he was pretending. Yet a voice in her heart said: Yes, she also often thought of him.

When she first went to Qingyuan Mountain, Master was nowhere to be seen all day. Eldest Senior Brother was strict and cold. Only he treated her best—buying her food, gently comforting. Whatever she said to him, she seemingly didn’t need to worry.

Thinking of him—so what?

Hu Sha said in a low voice: “That’s right. I think of you every day. But what I think of is the former Second Senior Brother. Even if your kindness to me was fake, I’m still very grateful. But my thinking of you doesn’t mean I’ll be insulted by you, used by you. You must understand this point.”

Feng Yi was slightly shaken, quietly looking at her for a while without speaking.

Hu Sha also no longer spoke. Between her and him—truly nothing good to say.

“If… I mean if.” Feng Yi lowered his head, quietly watching his own fingers tapping on the windowsill one by one. “If I say—it’s an invitation to you, even—requesting you, to be together with me. For the sake of not letting Qingling Zhenjun continue oppressing from above, I need you, also need the Shuiliu Qin. Hu Sha, will you still flatly refuse me?”

Hu Sha was silent for a long while, saying in a low voice: “I won’t become a demon. Won’t make myself hateful for revenge.”

Feng Yi smiled faintly: “I understand. Now in your heart, I’m a hateful person.”

Hu Sha’s lips trembled. In the end she still endured, saying nothing.

Feng Yi slowly retreated a step, hands tucked in sleeves, saying softly: “I originally thought you’d understand me—because we’re the same victims. Later I understood you’re different—only willing to humbly live in the present. Hu Sha, the more you’re like this, the more I hate you. Each time seeing you reminds me of my former self—that’s a kind of shame.”

She turned her head away, gazing indifferently at the carved window lattice. After a long while, only saying: “I won’t live for your approval.”

Feng Yi closed his eyes, deeply drawing a breath: “Someday… I’ll have you die by my hand, ending this shame.”

She suddenly raised her head, staring fixedly at his face. One word at a time slowly saying: “I also won’t die by your hand.”

Feng Yi chuckled twice, lightly floating up from the ground, saying loudly: “Words end here. We’ll meet again very soon. Master, you must take care. Don’t carelessly die of illness. This disciple’s heart would be pained.”

Fang Zhun said indifferently: “Wait a moment. Did I say you could leave?”

Feng Yi was slightly startled. The flying movement suddenly froze mid-air—couldn’t go up or down, as if caught by an invisible hand. His expression first changed slightly, then he relaxed his brows, revealing a completely unconcerned smile: “If Master has further teachings, this disciple naturally listens respectfully.”

Fang Zhun nodded matter-of-factly: “First, you’re no longer my disciple. The words ‘Master’ sound shabby to me. Please take them back. Second, I can praise you as clever and quick, advancing a thousand li daily. However, even if you’re the world’s number one genius, your body has only lived a mere fifty-five years. Certain powers cannot be contained. Those forbidden demonic techniques will have backlash someday. Third, even without you saying it, I can see your body is greatly damaged. If you obtain the Shuiliu Qin’s power again, more than half the possibility is enough to make you scatter like smoke on the spot. This outcome—are you prepared?”