Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi clutched the pastries protectively. “No, no, no! These were bought specifically for us by Senior Brother. We can’t give them to anyone else.”

“Who said they were bought just for you? The elders from Dongming Temple haven’t eaten yet.”

The two shook their heads like rattling drums. “Two boxes of pastries aren’t enough to share among five Daoists, and the masters might not even like Longcong pastries.”

Teng Yuyi sipped her tea leisurely, privately musing that Lin Chengyou, who typically looked down upon the world, actually had such a childish side. Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi were usually simple-minded, but when it came to food, they suddenly became remarkably clever.

Lin Chengyou deliberately asked, “Won’t share?”

“No! We might share other things, but this is Senior Brother’s thoughtful gift.” Qi Zhi wiped his tears. “When the elders from Dongming Temple arrive, they can eat something else.”

Lin Chengyou said, “Fine then. But this was your choice. Don’t blame me if you get stomach aches. And not a single piece can be wasted – or you’ll lose your monthly allowance for the next half year.”

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi broke into smiles through their tears, holding the Longcong pastries like treasures. “Lady Teng, these are delicious. Next time we’ll buy some to treat you. But these were bought by Senior Brother from far away, so we shouldn’t share them without permission.”

Teng Yuyi stroked her fake beard and wrote: I’ll remember that promise.

The two thumped their chests: “This humble Daoist never speaks false words.”

Lin Chengyou thought privately that these two rascals had the same temperament as their master – incredibly stingy with money. They usually saved their allowance just to buy some food to show filial respect to their master and the temple’s cultivators. Voluntarily treating outsiders to meals was almost unheard of. He hadn’t expected them to be so generous with Teng Yuyi.

Just then, Jian Mei and the others arrived, followed by five or six young Daoist acolytes. Each acolyte carried a bundle that appeared to contain bamboo scrolls or similar items – they looked both heavy and rigid.

The Five Beauties wore flowing Daoist robes and clean socks, constantly urging their disciples forward. Upon seeing the beautiful entertainer in the main hall, their souls seemed to float away. They blinked twice, and with distracted minds said, “Young Master, we’ve found everything we could. It’s all here.”

Lin Chengyou called He Mingsheng over and pointed at the group of courtesans: “Send them away. And prepare a table of vegetarian dishes for us.”

He Mingsheng turned and glared at the women. The courtesans didn’t dare make a fuss and gracefully departed one by one.

He Mingsheng bowed with a smile: “Young Master ordered several jugs of Dragon Essence Wine last time. This wine is potent and fragrant – only true connoisseurs know its wonder. These past few days, I acquired a few more jugs from Kucha merchants. Since we’re preparing a meal, would you like some served as well?”

“Dragon Essence Wine?” Lin Chengyou was bewildered – when had he ever drunk Dragon Essence Wine at the Colored Phoenix Tower?

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi trembled internally. That night at the Colored Phoenix Tower when they were hunting demons, Senior Brother had asked the establishment to arrange their meals. Lady Teng, angry that Senior Brother wouldn’t remove the curse from the Jade Sword, had ordered several jugs of Dragon Essence Wine. They’d heard each jug cost quite a sum – Madam E had been overjoyed at the time.

Logically, the Colored Phoenix Tower should have already sent the wine bill to the Prince’s mansion. Could it be that Senior Brother still didn’t know about it?

Teng Yuyi rose with a smile, her meaning clear: Young Master, venerable Daoists, please enjoy yourselves. I shall take my leave.

Lin Chengyou said: “Wait.”

He smiled and asked He Mingsheng: “How many jugs of Dragon Essence Wine did I drink last time?”

He Mingsheng carried an account book with him and smiled as he turned to a certain page: “This wine has an endless aftertaste – one bottle can make a person drunk. Young Master has quite the capacity for alcohol, ordering three bottles in one go.”

Lin Chengyou narrowed his eyes as he studied Teng Yuyi. Dragon Essence Wine was rare outside the palace, but they stored quite a lot inside. He got drunk on it year after year and remembered it was extremely potent. Last time, Teng Yuyi had drunk three jugs but showed no signs of intoxication when leaving the Colored Phoenix Tower, indicating her considerable alcohol tolerance.

He gave a meaningful smile: “With so many drinking tonight, we should order eight or ten jugs, but since we still have important matters to attend to, we should drink moderately. Let’s start with three jugs. Remember to prepare a good spread of dishes too – all charged to Master Wang’s account.”

He Mingsheng hesitated, somewhat troubled: “This… Master Wang made arrangements this afternoon. Each meal has a set limit, and tonight’s quota has already been reached. I’m afraid we can’t add more wine and dishes.”

Teng Yuyi feigned anger: Foolish! If the Young Master wishes to drink, what’s wrong with making an exception? I’ve long wanted to treat the Young Master and Dongming Temple. Such opportunities are rare – quickly heat the wine and bring it!

With each sentence she wrote, He Mingsheng bowed once, until finally, his face was glowing with joy. He rubbed his hands together and smiled: “The Young Master is magnificent, and Master Wang is generous and broad-minded. The two of you complement each other perfectly – even I benefit from it. Then let’s do as Master Wang says. I’ll go make arrangements right away.”

Lin Chengyou smiled: “Many thanks for Master Wang’s hospitality.”

Teng Yuyi made an exaggerated gesture of courtesy, maintaining a normal expression as she gracefully took her seat.

Jian Mei and the others grinned: “We’re indebted to Master Wang’s generosity. This humble Daoist has practiced abstinence for many years and shouldn’t partake in meat or wine, but with such fine wine, we must make an exception this once.”

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi secretly frowned. The five Daoists not only had reddened noses but also clouded eyes – they probably regularly indulged in wine and meat. How dare they claim to have practiced abstinence for many years?

Soon the wine and dishes were served. Teng Yuyi made a show of polite refusal before picking up her wine cup and drinking.

Butler Cheng came over to stop her but was driven back by her murderous glare.

Her heart was bleeding – three jugs of Dragon Essence Wine would cost over ten thousand coins. She had brought those seven-colored glass beads when leaving during the day for emergencies, never expecting to use them on wine money. Now that the wine and dishes were served, how could she not drink heartily to get her money’s worth?

Teng Yuyi drank three cups without showing any reaction. When she reached for the second jug, she was surprised to find it empty, without a single drop remaining.

Lin Chengyou tossed a milk date into his mouth, grinning mischievously – needless to say, he had drunk it.

Teng Yuyi smiled faintly and reached for the third jug. She had barely poured one cup when Lin Chengyou raised his hand and trapped the wine jug.

Lin Chengyou smiled: “Master Wang, I know some medicine, and I kindly advise you – with your condition, such heavy drinking might irritate your throat.”

His words carried hidden meaning, clearly warning her. Teng Yuyi deliberately showed a shocked expression, but as soon as Lin Chengyou released his grip, she immediately picked up the wine jug and poured another cup. The so-called Dragon Essence Wine was made from the scales of a spiritual beast from Kucha in the Western Regions. Besides its mellow taste, it could also disperse stasis and detoxify – it was precisely these magical effects that made one dan worth five thousand coins.

She wasn’t suffering from a cold – she should drink more wine to detoxify. Lin Chengyou might fool others with those words, but he couldn’t deceive her.

She drank several cups methodically, but when she went to pour again, the wine jug was empty once more.

Suspicious, she looked all around the table. There had been more than half a jug left – how had it vanished into thin air? Yet when Lin Chengyou picked up the jug, wine gurgled out freely.

Teng Yuyi knew he was just showing off his martial skills with tricks. She had only managed to drink one and a half jugs in total, and she wasn’t about to stop there but try as she might, she couldn’t get her hands on anymore.

As the two engaged in their subtle contest, the Five Daoists were still slowly savoring their first cup: “Excellent wine! Truly excellent wine!”

Lin Chengyou set down the wine jug and pointed at the pile of bundles: “Are all the temple records about the Golden-Robed Young Master here?”

“That’s right. The Golden-Robed Young Master began causing trouble two hundred years ago, and there are many miscellaneous accounts. But we just skimmed through them earlier – most talk about the demon’s background and methods of harming people. We haven’t found any records about its connection to the Corpse Evil yet.”

“We must have missed something. The Golden-Robed Young Master wouldn’t suddenly change its nature. Look carefully through the various temple records – we might find the source.”

“Young Master, how shall we arrange things tonight? Where will Master Wang and those two entertainers stay?”

Lin Chengyou said: “Miss Gejin and Juan’er Li will share a room, with Master Wang staying opposite them. The three will stay in the back garden wing, all close together. There’s a small Buddha hall in the garden, no more than a hundred paces away. I’ve already ordered He Mingsheng to send some bedding there – we’ll have to trouble the venerable Daoists to stay in the small Buddha hall tonight.”

After the meal, Lin Chengyou led everyone to inspect each location, sprinkling Seven-Pursuit Powder in every corner before leading Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi toward the back garden. As they passed through the corridor, they suddenly saw someone at the corner.

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi were startled: “Ten– Master Wang.”

Lin Chengyou looked up. Tonight the moon was bright and the stars were sparse. The garden was quiet and ornate, with several clusters of peonies reaching toward the railings. Though the petals weren’t in full bloom, they still showed half-hidden richness. As the clear breeze passed, the flower shadows rustled and swayed.

That person stood before the flowers, hands behind their back as if appreciating the blooms. The figure appeared to be Teng Yuyi, but though she heard them call out, she acted as if she hadn’t heard.

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi suspected nothing and were about to run over: “Master Wang.”

Lin Chengyou’s heart sank. He raised his arm to block the two, his fingertips quickly igniting a talisman that he was about to throw, when just then, Teng Yuyi turned to look at him, her expression completely calm, without a trace of evil energy.

Lin Chengyou quickly extinguished the talisman and asked, knowing full well the answer: “Why aren’t you in your room? What are you doing here?”

“Yes, Master Wang, weren’t the Daoists with you?” Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi gathered in front of Teng Yuyi.

Teng Yuyi observed Lin Chengyou’s expression, knowing he had grown suspicious earlier – which played right into her hands. She took out a stack of pre-written papers and looked at Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi: I have a few words I’d like to discuss privately with your Senior Brother.

Lin Chengyou folded his arms and smiled: “I don’t think there’s anything between us that can’t be said in public.”

Teng Yuyi pulled out a second sheet: It concerns the Corpse Evil. If the Young Master doesn’t want it to escape like last time, perhaps you should patiently hear me out.

Lin Chengyou stroked his chin and spoke: “Wait for us over there.”

Then he slowly walked closer: “Go ahead, what wisdom does Master Wang have to share?”

Teng Yuyi smiled and pointed to the third sheet: Young Master thought I was the Corpse Evil just now, didn’t you?

Lin Chengyou gave an ambiguous smile: “So what if I did? You were skulking around here – isn’t it normal that I grew suspicious?”

Teng Yuyi: But Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi weren’t suspicious. When they suddenly saw me, their first reaction was to ask why I was there. If I were the Corpse Evil in disguise, by the time they realized it, it would probably be too late.

Lin Chengyou had anticipated she would say this and deliberately furrowed his brow: “You have a point.”

Teng Yuyi naturally turned to the next page: Has the Young Master considered that tonight Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi will be closest to me? For all their precautions, they won’t suspect the Corpse Evil of impersonating me. The Corpse Evil is so cunning, that it has already perfectly grasped my appearance and mannerisms. If it manages to deceive the two young Daoists, failing to catch it would be the lesser evil – someone getting hurt would be the greater disaster. Is the Young Master certain he wants to take this risk?

Lin Chengyou said: “Let me say what comes next for you: The only solution now is to quickly cure my poisoning. Once I can speak for myself, there’s no need to fear the Corpse Evil impersonating me.”

Teng Yuyi smiled: Better safe than sorry. The Corpse Evil is so devious – if it escapes again because you won’t cure my poisoning, wouldn’t you feel regret?

Lin Chengyou suddenly stepped closer and bent down to smell Teng Yuyi’s shoulder.

Teng Yuyi was secretly startled and quickly jumped back: What are you doing?

This sentence hadn’t been pre-written on paper – she could only widen her eyes, writing shock and anger on her face.

Lin Chengyou had drunk some wine, and though he showed no signs of intoxication, his black eyes became even more profound, like a cold spring. He lazily stepped back: “Lady Teng drank so much Dragon Essence Wine – right now you reek of alcohol. Even if the Corpse Evil wanted to impersonate you, it couldn’t imitate that. I’ll tell Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi that if they encounter Lady Teng, they just need to smell the wine. Their noses are very keen – they won’t make a mistake. The one without the smell of wine must be the Corpse Evil.”

Teng Yuyi steadied herself, then pulled out the next sheet: If it were that simple, why would I need to find the Young Master? Do you know why I was bewitched by the Corpse Evil that night? Merely having an appearance and mannerisms similar to my mother wasn’t enough to make me fall for its trap.

Lin Chengyou pondered. Last night when Teng Yuyi acted as bait, he had been lurking nearby. Seeing her face full of tears, it hadn’t seemed fake – clearly, her mind had been confused at the time. Later when she suddenly attacked the Corpse Evil, it had truly caught him by surprise.

“Why did Lady Teng fall for it?” He was somewhat curious.

Teng Yuyi: The Corpse Evil didn’t come to me directly – it first snuck into the main chambers. It stole my mother’s clothes and even used the perfume from my mother’s chest. Only because every detail matched did I unwittingly fall for its trap. Does the Young Master think the Corpse Evil won’t come prepared? The Colored Phoenix Tower has plenty of Dragon Essence Wine stored – it would be child’s play for it to make itself smell of alcohol. Stealing my clothes and feeling that would be even easier. However, precisely because it did too much that night, I realized there are some things the Corpse Evil cannot control.

Lin Chengyou had already considered everything Teng Yuyi said, but he deliberately asked: “What can’t it control?”

Teng Yuyi pulled out another sheet: It seems unable to immediately detect physical abnormalities in those it bewitches. For instance, my throat had been hoarse for two nights, yet in last night’s illusion, I could speak. I guess if it intentionally tries to impersonate me tonight, it will learn from the last time and pretend to be unable to speak, thereby gaining the trust of those in the tower. If the Young Master doesn’t want everyone to be deceived, the only solution is to cure my poisoning. Even if the Corpse Evil can quickly adjust its breath and appearance, it absolutely won’t be able to detect that my throat has recovered.

Lin Chengyou’s smile didn’t diminish, but he didn’t respond.

Teng Yuyi smiled gently: I’ve said my piece. How to proceed is for the Young Master to weigh.

With that, she took a couple of steps toward the stairs. Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi looked over: “Finished talking?”

Teng Yuyi nodded, and Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi ran over: “Senior Brother?”

Lin Chengyou said casually: “I’m going to the small Buddha hall to check Dongming Temple’s records. You escort Master Wang back to their room.”

Just as Teng Yuyi descended the stairs, Butler Cheng and Huo Qiu emerged from the shadows.

Even after returning to her quarters, Lin Chengyou hadn’t come by. Teng Yuyi had been full of confidence, but suddenly lost all assurance. She sat waiting for a while longer, still with no word from Lin Chengyou. As she fidgeted with chess pieces, she wondered – had she miscalculated? Even after saying all that, was he still not planning to cure her?

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi sat in Teng Yuyi’s room for a while before returning to their quarters to draw talismans.

Teng Yuyi dejectedly ordered water to be prepared for washing and bathing. Suddenly she heard Huo Qiu speaking outside: “Young Master.”

Lin Chengyou called out: “Master Wang? Come out for a word.”

Teng Yuyi left her room and indeed saw Lin Chengyou standing outside. She waved at Butler Cheng and Huo Qiu, indicating they should withdraw.

Butler Cheng and Huo Qiu retreated to their room, but their ears perked up.

“I was just heading to Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi’s room. Hearing that Master Wang was drunk and thirsty, I thought to bring you something to help with the wine.”

Teng Yuyi’s heart leaped – he had indeed come to deliver the antidote. She looked down at his hands, but they were empty.

Where’s the antidote? She glared at him silently.

Lin Chengyou smiled: “Teng Yuyi, aren’t you quite clever? Why didn’t you try speaking for yourself to see if you could?”

Teng Yuyi was startled and unconsciously cleared her throat, only then realizing that the strange sensation in her throat had disappeared without her noticing. She tried to form words: “Eh, when did you cure—”

Having been mute for several days, suddenly having words flow from her lips startled even herself.

“I had Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi give you the antidote this morning. You chose not to speak – how can you blame me?” Lin Chengyou wore an innocent expression.

Teng Yuyi was stunned – so it was that water-pink pill. This man was truly boundlessly devious. Giving medicine without explaining its purpose – how was she to know she could speak?

She had wasted effort preparing that whole speech to stop Lin Chengyou. At the time, he had listened with such a serious expression – who knew how he must have been laughing at her inside.

She glanced at him. Having finally been cured, she was busy confirming its authenticity and had no energy left to spar with him. After testing it out, she felt only slight roughness without any obvious discomfort, so she smiled sweetly: “Thank you, Young Master.”

Her voice hadn’t fully recovered, lacking its usual clear sweetness, but her eyes were bright and lively, clearly in high spirits.

Lin Chengyou watched her expression and said with a mischievous smile: “This antidote is most incompatible with alcohol. If you hadn’t drunk so much Dragon Essence Wine, you’d probably be completely better by now. Too bad Master Wang was too fond of drink – I kindly advised you to drink less, but couldn’t stop you.”

Teng Yuyi couldn’t smile anymore.

“Well, I’ve delivered the sobering medicine. Master Wang should rest early.” Lin Chengyou offered this “advice” with a straight face before turning and striding away.

As soon as he left, Butler Cheng and Huo Qiu came out from behind: “Miss, your throat…”

How did it suddenly get better?

Teng Yuyi made up an excuse: “This illness was originally caused by wind-cold. It was much better during the day, and I heard Dragon Essence Wine has some effect in dispelling cold. I drank quite a bit tonight, so it must have driven out the cold.”

Butler Cheng still had many doubts, but he knew his young miss’s vengeful nature – if someone had poisoned her into muteness, there was no reason she would cover for them.

Teng Yuyi cleared her throat again and said cheerfully: “Butler Cheng, quickly get me some sobering soup.”

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi were busy drawing talismans in their room, completely unaware of what was happening outside. Looking up to see Lin Chengyou enter, they quickly crowd around him: “Senior Brother, Lady Teng has the Spirit Bell – should we put more talismans outside Miss Gejin and Juan’er Li’s rooms?”

Lin Chengyou sat behind the table, gathering his sleeves to grind ink: “What use would a hundred of these talismans you draw be? At best they might stop some minor ghosts – they wouldn’t even tickle the Corpse Evil.”

He put down the ink pestle and reached toward Jue Sheng: “Hand it over.”

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi were confused: “What?”

“Your finger.” Lin Chengyou grabbed Jue Sheng’s chubby hand. “Will you bite it yourself or should I prick it for you?”

“I’ll bite it myself.” Jue Sheng wore a bitter expression. Glancing inadvertently, he noticed several star-shaped blood scabs on his Senior Brother’s fingertips, probably from biting them to draw talismans these past few days.

He quickly bit his finger and dripped blood into the ink, then ran back to the table and eagerly brought over the apricot pastry drink he hadn’t dared eat during the day.

“Senior Brother, this was sent by Lady Teng earlier. You haven’t been eating or sleeping well these past days – take the chance to replenish yourself while nothing’s happening.”

Qi Zhi also took out a package of Jade Dew Balls from his chest and pushed them toward Lin Chengyou: “Senior Brother only drank wine tonight without eating much. These are called Jade Dew Balls – Lady Teng had them made when we were at the Teng mansion the other day. They’re delicious – try them, Senior Brother.”

Lin Chengyou glanced at them. Jue Sheng’s bowl of apricot pastry drink had already congealed – he could tell without tasting that it had gone bad. As for the package of Jade Dew Balls that Qi Zhi treasured, they were wrinkled and misshapen. Eating them might cause stomach trouble.

For Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi, these foods were not common fare, no wonder they treasured them so and offered them to him like precious things. By now he understood how Teng Yuyi won people over. He wasn’t actually hungry, and moreover these were sent by Teng Yuyi.

But he really couldn’t bear to disappoint Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi. He discreetly examined the food – fortunately, there were no strange smells, so Teng Yuyi probably hadn’t specifically poisoned him. Although he didn’t want to eat them, he finished everything. Afterward, he reflected that the Teng household’s cook’s skills were not bad, on par with their own household’s cooks.

“Alright, finished eating. Let’s get to work.” He cleaned his hands and face, tossing the towel aside.

“Was it good?” Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi’s eyes shone.

Lin Chengyou meant to say “so-so” but what came out was “Not bad.”

Finally, he raised his hand to pat his disciples’ round heads: “Let’s attend to business. Take down those poorly made talismans of yours and put these up instead. These talismans can burn through the Corpse Evil’s flesh – if it tries to force its way through, there will be noise. You’re staying closest, so stay alert tonight.”

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi happily agreed.

Lin Chengyou spread out the records on the table, scanning ten lines at a glance searching for clues. After checking several volumes, they all merely recorded where the Golden-Robed Young Master had appeared in which year and month, how many young women it had harmed, how monks and Daoists had pursued the demon, and how it had escaped.

This demon delighted in harvesting yin energy for cultivation. Women bewitched by it invariably died from complete depletion of their yin essence. Even if fortunately rescued by monks or Daoists, they would age into old cronies overnight. In just the first year of the Maode era of the previous dynasty, the Golden-Robed Young Master had harmed over twenty people, greatly increasing its power – afterward, no one could subdue it.

Every temple in Chang’an with more than a hundred years of history had records of the Golden-Robed Young Master. Lin Chengyou searched through everything but still couldn’t find any connection between the Golden-Robed Young Master and the Corpse Evil. By then Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi had returned from posting the talismans. Lin Chengyou said: “You search through this pile, I’ll look through those over there.”

Scrolls were spread everywhere, and Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi hurried over to help.

Qi Zhi held a pile of scrolls in his arms. One accidentally fell – he bent to pick it up and searched carefully but found nothing. Opening a second scroll, his eyes moved across it. Though he didn’t find the Golden-Robed Young Master’s name, he made an unexpected discovery: “Hey, this has Master’s Daoist title.”

Busy searching by lamplight, Jue Sheng said helplessly: “Don’t be confused – these are records from a hundred years ago. Most of the Daoists mentioned have already ascended to immortality. Master isn’t that old.”

Qi Zhi insisted: “But it says ‘Qingxu Zi’ right here – Jue Sheng, look for yourself.”

“That’s not strange – probably just someone with the same Daoist title.” Jue Sheng rubbed his eyes and read word by word: “‘Qingxu Zi’s Dao techniques were profound and mysterious. He excelled at writing talismans and illusions. Seeking the righteous path, he often cultivated qi and abstained from grain. In the eleventh year of Maode, he died while capturing an alluring demon. He was honored as—'”

Lin Chengyou had been unconcerned, but suddenly his gaze shifted.

“Alluring demon,” “eleventh year of Maode.”

He walked over and glanced at it. In just a few short lines summarizing the previous dynasty Daoist’s life, is written in an unremarkable corner of the scroll.

“A demon that could kill a Daoist of ‘profound and mysterious techniques’ must not have been ordinary. Why are there no other records of this ‘alluring demon’?”

“Right! Whenever a great demon appears in the world, temples record detailed descriptions. Since it was a demon from the Maode era, could the demon refer to the Corpse Evil?”

Lin Chengyou said: “Impossible. The Corpse Evil was called Feng Abao. She died in the fourteenth year of Maode and transformed into the Corpse Evil ten years later – first, the timeline doesn’t match. Second, the Corpse Evil is neither a demon nor an evil spirit. Since these are orthodox Daoist records, how could they wrongly call the Corpse Evil a ‘demon’? So this alluring demon must refer to some other supernatural being.”

“Alluring demon, alluring demon.” Qi Zhi pondered. “Should be a female demon’s name, right?”

“I don’t think so. Those who bewitch with their appearance can all be called alluring demons.” Lin Chengyou paced back and forth. “Among the alluring demons that emerged to harm people during the Maode era, didn’t we just mention one?”

“The Golden-Robed Young Master?”

“That previous dynasty’s Daoist excelled at writing talismans and illusions – he wouldn’t have waited passively for death. If the ‘alluring demon’ here really was the Golden-Robed Young Master, it must have been injured when it killed the Daoist. No wonder there were few records of it after the eleventh year of Maode.”

Lin Chengyou traced upward from that line of records – it turned out to be from a temple called Xuanyang Temple, and this previous dynasty’s “Qingxu Zi” was its sixth abbot.

“This might be the key.” A hint of a smile appeared in his eyes. “Search carefully – we might be able to use this to clarify the true relationship between the Golden-Robed Young Master and the Corpse Evil. I’m going to the small Buddha hall to look for Xuanyang Temple’s records. You stay in the room and remember what I said earlier – don’t make any mistakes.”

“Rest assured, Senior Brother.”

***

Teng Yuyi drank a bowl of sobering soup, feeling her throat improving even more than before. Her spirits lifted considerably. Just as she was about to close the door to wash up, she heard Huo Qiu shout outside: “Who goes there?”

Teng Yuyi perked up her ears: “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. A maid came by to deliver soup. I just asked her a few questions.”

“What kind of maid?”

“She said she came to deliver toiletries to Miss Gejin. Dark complexion, rough hands and feet. Miss Gejin seems to have scolded this maid before – her name was Qingzhi.”

Teng Yuyi remembered Qingzhi’s contemptuous expression when sneering at Miss Gejin’s door, and something clicked in her mind: “What did she say just now?”

“She seemed startled by me, but her manner was very composed. She spoke unhurriedly, delivered the items, and left.”

From this description, she didn’t sound truly frightened. Teng Yuyi was about to inquire further when the Small Cliff Sword in her sleeve suddenly became scorching hot. Warning bells rang in her mind, but then she remembered that Lin Chengyou and the others hadn’t left yet – if there were supernatural forces at work, they couldn’t escape their notice.

It seemed the sword was just restless from being confined too long, so she said to Huo Qiu: “Nothing urgent for now. Why don’t you return to your room? If Qingzhi appears in the corridor again, you and Butler Cheng should immediately inform the young Daoists next door.”

“Yes.”

Teng Yuyi walked gracefully back to her bedside: “Come out then.”

The sword flashed with flowing light, and the little old man emerged gleefully.

“This old fellow was about to die of craving! Lady Teng, you drank so much fine wine, how could you not save even a drop for me?”

Teng Yuyi said: “I should be asking you – usually you make a fuss when I drink a little wine, but tonight at the front hall you were so well-behaved.”

“That’s because Lin Chengyou was there, of course.”

“Oh? So you’re afraid of him?”

“This isn’t fear.” Small Cliff jumped onto the window-side table and stretched languidly. “This is called avoiding trouble. He’s a little star of calamity, born with disaster in his fate, hated by gods and demons alike. Why would I provoke him without reason?”

Disaster in his fate? Lin Chengyou had calamities too? How come she’d never seen him have any bad luck?

Ah, when would it be his turn for misfortune – that would make her happy.

She poured some wine from her own stock into a crystal cup: “You don’t dare provoke him, so you bully me instead? Do I seem like someone easy to bully?”

“Not easy to bully. But no matter how difficult you are to bully, you’re still this old fellow’s little master.” Small Cliff held up the cup and took a big gulp. “Lady Teng, I didn’t just come out for wine – I have important matters to discuss. Have you found out anything about the borrowed life?”

Teng Yuyi started: “I asked around, but unfortunately I’ve been busy avoiding disaster these past days and haven’t learned anything.”

Small Cliff sat back against the crystal cup: “This old fellow expected as much. Lady Teng, there’s now a great opportunity to resolve the calamity.”

Teng Yuyi asked, knowing the answer: “You want me to personally kill either the Golden-Robed Young Master or the Corpse Evil?”

“Or kill both demons together. Remember, it must be a fatal blow – that way the merit of destroying evil will be credited to you.”

“What constitutes a fatal blow?”

Small Cliff narrowed his eyes: “All demons and evil spirits have vital points – perhaps the eyes, or the navel. You just need to find out where the Golden-Robed Young Master and Corpse Evil’s vital points are. Once Lin Chengyou and the others subdue them, finding an opportunity to strike won’t be difficult.”

Teng Yuyi nodded: “I understand. Do you want me to wait until Lin Chengyou has nearly finished them off, then go in for the final blow? Leaving aside that Lin Chengyou won’t give me such an opportunity – even if he tied up the Corpse Evil and delivered it to me, given its ferocious power, I might still meet with misfortune when it’s my turn to strike.”

Small Cliff’s temper flared instantly: “Well, this old fellow has said all there is to say! If you’re afraid of danger, then forget about counteracting the calamity of your borrowed life. You’ve managed to come back to life – surely you don’t want to live with constant misfortune?”

He angrily drank quite a bit of wine, then jumped onto the Small Cliff Sword and dove in: “I’ve said my piece. This old fellow is leaving.”

Teng Yuyi tapped the sword hilt, but Small Cliff remained silent.

She drank a cup of wine melancholically. It seemed that merely strategizing wasn’t enough – she would have to personally take action to slay demons. In the past, she would have found this utterly absurd, but since awakening, many things could no longer be explained by ordinary logic. She often suspected this was all a dream. In the mornings, when she leaned against the window to groom herself, she couldn’t help but extend her hand before the window frame to examine it.

Her hand in the spring light was fair, warm, and soft, sensitive to cold and heat, able to flex and extend. She looked at it again and again, touched it again and again, until she confirmed she was a person of flesh and blood – only then would her wildly beating heart slowly calm down.

She was no longer just a wandering spirit – she could freely touch every inch of spring sunshine. She had many plans in her heart, wanting to taste all the finest wines in the world. She couldn’t bear to part with her cousin and aunt’s smiling faces, and she was desperate to uncover the truth of past events. Even her attitude toward her father had changed.

She didn’t know who had helped her borrow this life, but since she had come back to life, how could she be content living in constant fear? Vital points? Fatal blow? As she pondered, she slowly turned the Small Cliff Sword, and when she became aware of herself, she realized she was seriously plotting.

She smiled wryly. Though Small Cliff hadn’t recognized her as master for long, he understood her temperament well. Even though she hadn’t figured out where the Corpse Evil and Golden-Robed Young Master’s vital points were, she had already started planning with relish.

However, she was also tired these past few days. While the Corpse Evil hadn’t appeared, she might as well rest properly. After washing up and lying down in bed, she quickly fell asleep. In a half-dream state, she heard a rush of chaotic footsteps.

Teng Yuyi’s heart trembled, and she instinctively reached for the Small Cliff Sword. Then she heard Butler Cheng’s deep voice outside: “Young Daoists, what has happened?”

Jue Sheng’s voice was urgent: “Someone has died in the garden.”

Butler Cheng was startled: “Has the Corpse Evil come?”

“No, a maid has died – we don’t know if it was suicide or murder. They say she was Miss Gejin’s maid, named Qingzhi.”

Teng Yuyi hadn’t dared undress before sleeping and quickly threw off her covers and got up. She heard Butler Cheng outside: “Young Master, are you awake?”

Teng Yuyi was about to open the door when she suddenly grew suspicious. The Corpse Evil had endless tricks – what if this was one of its schemes? Wouldn’t opening the door be walking right into its trap? She remembered Lin Chengyou’s words and stopped to shake the bells on her wrist.

The bells remained silent, indicating no evil energy nearby. Teng Yuyi relaxed and opened the door to see Jue Sheng and the others standing outside. Dawn light was dim, and the corridor was buzzing with voices.

The residents of Yicui Pavilion were all prominent courtesans of the Colored Phoenix Tower. Hearing something had happened, they all opened their doors to look out. Having had no time to groom themselves, their hair was disheveled and hairpins askew.

After confirming Teng Yuyi was safe and sound, Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi said: “Master Wang, something’s happened in the garden. We need to go help Senior Brother.”

Teng Yuyi adjusted the felt hat on her head: “Let’s go. I want to see too.”

Butler Cheng hurriedly said: “There’s just been a death – the garden will be crowded and chaotic. Young Master, if you want to know anything, just order this old servant to inquire.”

Qi Zhi nodded: “That’s right, that’s right. Though it’s dawn, Qingzhi’s cause of death is unclear. Running over rashly might lead to unfortunate encounters. Jue Sheng, you go – I’ll stay to look after Master Wang.”

“Alright.” Jue Sheng ran off immediately.

Teng Yuyi hesitated briefly. This matter was too suspicious. Butler Cheng was sharp-eyed and clear-minded – leaving the inquiries to him might not be a bad approach.

She returned to her room for a quick wash, waited a while but didn’t see Butler Cheng return: “Huo Qiu, did you tell Daoist Qi Zhi about last night’s events?”

Huo Qiu said: “I have. I was just about to ask for Young Master’s instructions – should we inform the Court of Justice?”

“The Court of Justice is here?”

Qi Zhi stood on tiptoe to look toward the garden: “Both the Wannian County legal officials and the Court of Justice officials have arrived. Probably summoned by Senior Brother.”

So quickly? Teng Yuyi walked outside. Passing by a room at the eastern end, she remembered this was Miss Gejin’s room. Recalling that Juan’er Li and Gejin had shared a room last night, they should have heard the news too, but the door was open and no one was inside.

The well wasn’t far, just behind a cluster of peonies in the garden. People kept rushing over after hearing the news, their chaotic footsteps clearly showing their fear.

Teng Yuyi walked into the garden and saw He Mingsheng wringing his hands in distress from afar: “What bad luck have I stumbled into, to keep encountering such misfortune? I treat them well with good food and drink daily, and even when they make mistakes I can’t bear to beat or scold them. If this worthless servant had any conscience at all, she could have gone elsewhere to die.”

A middle-aged official shouted: “He Mingsheng, this is no place for you to make a scene! The Judicial Commissioner and Evaluator are here and need peace to investigate. Quickly drive your people aside – if you continue making such noise, beware of being charged with a crime.”

He Mingsheng sheepishly wiped his sweat and turned to drive the crowd away. People pushed and shoved each other, retreating several steps.

Teng Yuyi observed the official. He wore a blue robe, indicating low rank – having been called to investigate the case, he was probably a legal officer from Wannian County.

Moving closer, she saw someone lying by the well – no, a corpse.

The corpse’s clothes were soaked through, with a large water stain spread beneath the body. The hair was disheveled and spread out, hands lay at the sides, and the fingernails were a pale purple, with what seemed to be some filth in the nail beds.

A gust of wind brought with it a faint fishy smell of water. Teng Yuyi felt slightly nauseous in her chest. Before she could see Qingzhi’s face, Butler Cheng happened to come over, and Teng Yuyi stopped accordingly.

Looking up, she saw several people standing behind He Mingsheng. Madam E covered her chest, repeatedly saying how frightening it was, while Juan’er Li and Bao Zhu clung tightly to each other in fear.

There was also a woman wearing a vermilion and green pleated skirt, whose profile was extraordinarily beautiful. This woman stood alone in a corner, with an otherworldly air about her.

Teng Yuyi was startled – Gejin?

Gejin gazed at the corpse by the well, her eyes full of grief. When she turned her head dejectedly, the bright red scar on the other half of her face was revealed.

She seemed not to notice Teng Yuyi’s gaze and walked back like a lost soul. After a few steps, an official suddenly came forward to stop her: “No one is to return to their rooms. The Judicial Commissioner and Evaluator have questions.”

Qi Zhi ran forward: “Senior Brother.”

Only then did Teng Yuyi notice Lin Chengyou standing by the well – she had almost forgotten he was an Evaluator of the Court of Justice.

Cases that Wannian County couldn’t resolve would be reported up the chain. As a Court Evaluator, Lin Chengyou naturally had the authority to investigate.

Next to Lin Chengyou was a green-robed official in his twenties or thirties, presumably the Judicial Commissioner. After they exchanged a few words, Lin Chengyou beckoned to He Mingsheng: “Call everyone out to wait in the garden for questioning. No need to clear another room – we’ll use the small Buddha hall.”

How could He Mingsheng refuse? He agreed repeatedly: “Yes.”

The official looked around and announced: “During our questioning, no one in the tower may converse privately, much less leave without permission. Any violators will be treated as suspects attempting to obstruct justice.”

Unusually, Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi weren’t clinging to Lin Chengyou but stood far away on the other side. The five Daoists from Dongming Temple had also arrived and were asking Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi something. At these words, the Daoists also fell silent.

Teng Yuyi glanced at Butler Cheng, who nodded subtly.

The Colored Phoenix Tower had many courtesans, and adding the temple servants and workers, there were about one to two hundred people. Lin Chengyou and the Judicial Commissioner would each handle half – even moving quickly, it would take until noon to question everyone.

Fortunately, the Court of Justice quickly sent officials to help. Even so, by the time Teng Yuyi was called to the small Buddha hall for questioning, more than two hours had passed.

The small Buddha hall’s door was open, but just approaching it made one shiver. Teng Yuyi looked around proudly – the place was still as cold as ever. She’d heard Lin Chengyou and the Five Daoists had slept here last night, yet somehow hadn’t fallen ill from the cold.

Just as she was about to enter, someone came out, raising their head in panic, their gaze meeting Teng Yuyi’s directly.

Teng Yuyi was startled – Gejin.

Gejin’s fragrant cheeks were tear-stained as she walked, wiping them with a handkerchief. Teng Yuyi secretly observed her. No wonder the Five Daoists said this woman resembled her somewhat – nothing else was similar except their eyes. Both had long, delicate eyelashes and large, ink-dark almond eyes. When filled with glistening tears, they held a particularly touching charm.

Teng Yuyi smiled and cupped her hands: “Miss Gejin?”

Gejin had never seen this young bearded Hu person before and gave a casual slight bow: “Sir.”

Then she hurried away. Teng Yuyi walked inside. The altar table held banners, flowers, and incense burners, but the statue of the young boy that had been behind it was gone. Standing before the altar now was that Court of Justice official, with documents spread before him and a brush in hand.

Lin Chengyou sat to one side with his arms folded, looking languid.

Teng Yuyi bowed respectfully: “Greetings, Young Master, greetings, Commissioner.”

The Court Commissioner looked over this strange Hu person, then glanced at Lin Chengyou. Strangely, he didn’t inquire about Teng Yuyi’s background but asked directly about last night’s events: “Was Master Wang in his room all night?”

“I didn’t dare wander around.”

“Did you hear anything?”

“No.”

“I hear your father assigned two guards to protect you. While you slept, they surely wouldn’t have slept deeply. Did they tell you anything?”

“Huo Qiu encountered Qingzhi in the corridor last night. He found her behavior suspicious and questioned her.”

Lin Chengyou’s eyes flickered: “What time was this, and what did Qingzhi say?”

Teng Yuyi detailed the previous night’s events.

Lin Chengyou exchanged a glance with his colleague: “Master Wang may go. Send Huo Qiu in for questioning.”

Teng Yuyi took her leave.

By noon, Qingzhi’s body had been removed, and the confinement order for everyone was lifted. They were told they could move freely within the tower.

While Huo Qiu was still away, Teng Yuyi asked Butler Cheng: “What did you learn this morning?”

Butler Cheng said: “This well is used for washing clothes. Early this morning, when a servant woman came to draw water, she found the bucket sitting by the well. Looking inside, she discovered Qingzhi. The servant was so frightened she lost her senses – her cries brought the Young Master and others. When examining the body, the Young Master seemed to notice something amiss. He stayed to guard the well himself and sent someone to fetch people from the Court of Justice. Miss knows the rest.”

Teng Yuyi nodded. As expected of Butler Cheng – he’d learned so many details in such a short time.

“Butler Cheng, you have good eyes. Did you notice anything unusual about Qingzhi’s body?”

“This old servant found a way to look closely. There were no wounds on the body, and the clothes weren’t damaged. There was some mud under her fingernails with a bluish tinge – probably moss from the well walls. Likely from scratching at the walls after jumping in.”

“Scratching at the walls?”

Butler Cheng said: “This old servant has seen suicide well before – very similar to Qingzhi’s condition. The well is deep, and she went in headfirst. She probably regretted it after jumping and tried to save herself, but it was too late. When found, she couldn’t have been dead long, as her fingers hadn’t yet wrinkled from the water. If someone had forcibly pushed her in from behind, her clothes would show scratches on the chest and abdomen from struggling, and there would be some wounds on her body. That’s why this old servant guesses Qingzhi wasn’t murdered. But this is just speculation – only those who examined the body would know for certain.”

This was strange – if there was nothing suspicious about Qingzhi’s death, why would Lin Chengyou go to such lengths? What had he discovered that made him question everyone individually?

Shortly after, Huo Qiu returned.

“The Young Master called me over and asked about every little detail – what Qingzhi’s expression was originally like, how it changed when I stopped her, what she was carrying, whether she wore hairpins… This humble one has a good memory, but even I couldn’t handle such questioning. Back and forth, I revealed each detail as I remembered it. Only when the Young Master saw he could get nothing more did he let me return.”

Teng Yuyi nodded: “We’ve told everything we know. Whatever happens next is no longer our concern. The tower is full of prying eyes and ears. You and Butler Cheng needn’t actively investigate outside – even if you hear something, ignore it and tell me privately later.”

With that, she went to the front hall for a meal. The Five Daoists from Dongming Temple were discussing the matter: “Who would have thought? The Corpse Evil didn’t come last night, but other trouble arose instead. They say this Qingzhi was the maid of that disfigured former house manager. The mistress was fine, yet the maid took her own life.”

Jian Mei lowered his voice: “Has it been confirmed? It was suicide?”

“The Court officials said so publicly, and the Young Master didn’t object. There must be nothing suspicious, otherwise, why weren’t any suspects taken away?”

The Daoists breathed sighs of relief: “That’s good. There were so many people in the tower last night – if the maid had been murdered, the killer would have been incredibly cold-blooded and daring.”

As they discussed, many in the hall were quietly listening. Hearing that Qingzhi had jumped into the well to commit suicide, the courtesans’ expressions softened somewhat.

Jian Xian saw Teng Yuyi and greeted her warmly: “Master Wang.”

Teng Yuyi looked around, finding it strange that He Mingsheng wasn’t present. She had wanted to order wine and food but had to give up for now.

“Greetings, venerable ones.”

“Oh? Master Wang, your voice has recovered?”

“I had a cold for a few days, but it was already getting better. After drinking last night, I could speak when I woke this morning.”

Jian Tian smiled: “We made Master Wang spend quite a bit last night. This old Daoist only learned from Madam E today that one jug of Dragon Essence Wine costs five thousand. We wanted to treat you in return, but unfortunately, we’ll subdue the Corpse Evil and Golden-Robed Young Master within three days. Afraid we won’t have another chance to invite Master Wang out for drinks after that.”

Within three days? Teng Yuyi sat down gracefully: “You’ve found a way to deal with the Corpse Evil and Golden-Robed Young Master?”

Jian Le looked around the hall, waiting until the courtesans tactfully left their seats, then said in a low voice: “Last night when the Young Master returned to the small Buddha hall, he had us focus on finding records from Xuanyang Temple from a hundred years ago. As luck would have it, guess what we found, Master Wang?”

Before Teng Yuyi could ask, he grinned and said: “A hundred years ago there was also a Daoist called Qingxu Zi. This person once fought an alluring demon during the Maode era but was unfortunately killed by it. Strangely, after that, the alluring demon also vanished. The Young Master suspected this alluring demon was the Golden-Robed Young Master. Searching in the small Buddha hall half the night, we indeed found records stating ‘this demon transformed from a strange bird,’ and from the year this alluring demon appeared, there were no more records of the Golden-Robed Young Master. When it reappeared, several years had passed.”

Jian Xian narrowed his phoenix eyes: “Master Wang must have guessed – the previous dynasty’s Daoist and the Golden-Robed Young Master both suffered grave injuries. One died immediately, one disappeared for several years. The Golden-Robed Young Master was busy recovering, so it had no chance to cause trouble. There’s something even stranger – according to Xuanyang Temple’s records, Qingxu Zi’s final battle with the Golden-Robed Young Master was near Fan Valley, and the Daoist’s body was found in Fan Valley.”

“Fan Valley? Wasn’t the palace where the Corpse Evil was imprisoned in life located in Fan Valley?”

Jian Mei slapped his thigh: “We could never figure out how the Golden-Robed Young Master and Corpse Evil became connected – here it is! The threads were countless but nearly invisible. If we hadn’t accidentally discovered the ‘alluring demon’ records, we might never have uncovered the connection between these two demons.”

“Did the records say which year this happened?”

“The eleventh year of Maode.”

Teng Yuyi exclaimed: “At that time, the Corpse Evil was still Princess Feng Abao, living in the palace, only thirteen years old. Surely the Golden-Robed Young Master being injured near the palace alone isn’t enough to confirm how the two demons met?”

“But beyond this, we can find no other connection between them. Three years later, Feng Abao died, and ten years after that she emerged from the earth as the Corpse Evil. She caused trouble together with the Golden-Robed Young Master until our temple’s founding master imprisoned them.”

“Even if true, what does this have to do with subduing the demons within three days?”

Jian Xian lowered his voice: “Before we only had suspicions without evidence. After last night’s events, we can confirm the two demons knew each other long ago. There aren’t many evil techniques that both the Corpse Evil and demons can practice. If we can find relevant records within three days and then break through their vital points, we can catch them all at once.”

So it was still uncertain. Teng Yuyi asked curiously: “Last time the Golden-Robed Young Master seemed badly injured – might its vital point have been hit?”

“Vital point?” Jian Mei waved his hand. “What vital point?”

Teng Yuyi’s heart tightened – the Golden-Robed Young Master had no vital point? Then how could she deliver her “fatal blow”?

“This demon has caused trouble for a hundred years not just because of its shapeshifting abilities, but also because of its wings. If it wants to escape, one flaps its wings and it vanishes instantly. It was already remarkable that the Young Master hit it with several arrows last time, probably because it had to force its way through the demon-subduing formation outside the mansion. Because it was injured, its movements became slower. This injury probably severely damaged its essence – it won’t be able to cause trouble for several years. But trying to strike its vital point would be extremely difficult.”

So there was one after all. Teng Yuyi took a sip of tea: “No matter how formidable the Golden-Robed Young Master is, it’s still essentially a bird demon. Being made of flesh and blood, how could it not have vital points?”

Jian Le raised two fingers and gestured toward his face.

Teng Yuyi’s expression brightened: “The eyes?”

Jian Le lowered his hand: “Not just for bird demons – almost all demons causing trouble in the human realm can’t do without their eyes. However, according to the ‘Demon Classic,’ the Golden-Robed Young Master is different from other demons. Its eyes’ ability to bewitch people is no less than the Corpse Evil’s. Once it looks at you, forget about trying to stab its eyes – you’d be lucky not to be eaten first. So even knowing where its vital point is does no good.”

Teng Yuyi’s scalp tingled as she listened. That old rascal Small Cliff, always giving rotten advice! She had thought the Golden-Robed Young Master’s abilities were below the Corpse Evil’s, making it relatively easier to deal with, but she hadn’t expected it to be so dangerous.

She recalled the sequence of Lin Chengyou’s arrows that night, and a thought struck her. While rubbing the rim of her cup, she asked: “What about the Corpse Evil? Last time the Young Master hit it with five arrows – was there any significance to that?”

“The Corpse Evil was born from the world’s evil energy – unless its bones are crushed to dust and scattered, even the gravest injuries will gradually heal.”

Teng Yuyi’s heart sank halfway. No wonder this thing was the king of evil – it was so difficult to deal with. Maybe she should give up this time and find a weaker evil being next time.

“However, the Corpse Evil does have a vital point. Master Wang, can you guess where it is?”

Teng Yuyi grew excited. Remembering how this monster had chosen her and Juan’er Li and the others – from what she’d seen, they had nothing in common except their eyes – she boldly guessed: “The eyes?”

The Five Daoists all shook their heads: “Wrong.”

Teng Yuyi then thought of the Corpse Evil’s appearance when it attacked – those red, deadly sharp nails like devil’s trumpet flowers were heart-stopping.

“The nails?”

“Wrong again.”

Teng Yuyi wanted to guess the heart, but she knew the Corpse Evil had no heart, and besides, Lin Chengyou had shot five arrows but notably avoided its heart area.

The more Teng Yuyi failed to guess, the more animated the Five Daoists became.

“This humble Daoist knew Master Wang wouldn’t guess it.”

“How about this – Master Wang gets three more guesses. If you can’t guess it, you’ll treat us to drinks again.”

Teng Yuyi secretly sneered – these old men had quite the scheme. Seeing her interest in the matter, they were trying to trick her into buying them more wine through roundabout means.

She pondered for a moment, then smiled: “If I guess correctly, would the venerable ones agree to do something for me?”

The Daoists conferred quietly, then clapped their hands: “As you say! But if Master Wang loses, we won’t settle for ordinary wine and food – it must be Dragon Essence Wine like last night.”

Teng Yuyi smiled: “That’s easy enough. Who has paper and a brush? Let’s put it in writing.”

A temple servant brought writing materials. Teng Yuyi wrote down the terms, handed them to the Daoists to review, had them add their hand prints, then signed and sealed it herself before continuing her guesses: “The throat?”

“Wrong, wrong.”

“The chest?”

Jian Mei was so excited his beard trembled as if the pitch-black Dragon Essence Wine was already before his eyes: “Master Wang, don’t say this humble Daoist didn’t warn you – you only have one chance left.”

Teng Yuyi furrowed her brow and sighed: “I’m afraid I’ll lose this round.”

Just then, footsteps came from the courtyard – it was Lin Chengyou, with Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi following.

Lin Chengyou raised an eyebrow: “What’s all this excitement about?”

The Five Daoists were in high spirits and quickly explained the situation: “Young Master, please sit! If we’re lucky enough to win the wine, this humble Daoist will borrow flowers to present to Buddha and presumptuously thank the Young Master with a round.”

Jian Mei then pretended: “Everyone was just warning Master Wang to be careful, but we couldn’t stop him.”

Teng Yuyi spread her hands helplessly: “Indeed, couldn’t be stopped.”

Lin Chengyou seemed to be waiting for someone and appeared somewhat disinterested. He ordered tea to be brought and watched them play while brewing it.

Seeing Teng Yuyi’s continued silence, the Daoists kept urging: “Master Wang, hurry and guess!”

“Accept the bet’s outcome, don’t try to deny it.”

Teng Yuyi unhurriedly put down her teacup, then suddenly smiled: “I’ve got it. The teeth?”

The smiles froze on Jian Mei and the others’ faces.

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi rubbed their hands together in delight.

“Doesn’t count, doesn’t count!” Jian Xian was the first to stand. “Master Wang just guessed randomly.”

“Right, before the bet you guessed three times, and after the bet three more times. The Corpse Evil only has so many parts – it was just luck. Doesn’t count, doesn’t count.”

Teng Yuyi’s eyes swept from left to right: “What did the venerable Daoists just say? ‘Accept the bet’s outcome, don’t try to deny it.’ It doesn’t matter how I guessed – since I got it right, you must accept the loss.”

Jian Xi smiled: “If Master Wang truly guessed it yourself, this humble Daoist would have no objection. But how could such a coincidence exist in this world? Master Wang couldn’t guess it no matter what before, how did you suddenly get it right? In gambling, win or lose depends on one’s ability. If someone helped secretly, that’s hardly fair.”

Lin Chengyou looked up.

Teng Yuyi exclaimed: “Daoist Jian Xi, are you suggesting someone told me secretly?”

Jian Xi glanced at Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi meaningfully: “This humble Daoist didn’t mean that, but to make me accept the loss willingly, Master Wang must explain the reasoning.”

Just as Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi were about to speak angrily, Lin Chengyou stopped them.

He smiled mockingly: “Today I’ve learned something new – it turns out the elders of Dongming Temple like to renege on debts. I don’t care how Master Wang guessed it, but my two junior brothers have only spoken once since entering. To accuse them of secret help – did you have my permission?”

Jian Tian blinked repeatedly – it wouldn’t be good to offend Lin Chengyou too. He hurriedly said: “Jian Xi was talking nonsense, Young Master please don’t take it to heart. Master Wang, we’ll accept the bet’s outcome. Tell us what you want us to do.”

Teng Yuyi said coolly: “You groundlessly suspected me of cheating. Just fulfilling what’s written in this agreement isn’t enough. If I can explain my reasoning, you must also apologize to me and the two young Daoists.”

“Fine! As long as Master Wang can explain the logic, this humble Daoist will certainly make proper amends.”

“Heh heh, just afraid Master Wang can’t explain.”

“Right, right, if you could explain you would have already.”

Teng Yuyi smiled coldly: “That night, the venerable Daoists kept provoking the Corpse Evil with words to stir its thoughts, but it seemed to only truly grow angry when the Young Master mentioned its name was Feng Abao. When the Young Master mentioned it could never acknowledge its parents, this evil being not only flew into a rage but also revealed two sharp, snow-white fangs from its mouth. If I remember correctly, although the Young Master shot it with golden arrows before, it seemed unaffected. Only after revealing its fangs did its flesh begin to emit a foul stench. So I guessed its vital point was those fangs. Unless its mind is disturbed, it would never easily reveal them. Once shown to others, that’s when its power is weakest.”

Jian Xi froze for a moment, then rose and bowed deeply: “This humble Daoist spoke rashly and nearly slandered Master Wang and the two young Daoists’ integrity. I know I was discourteous and feel deeply ashamed.”

Jian Tian and the others also apologized reluctantly: “Whatever Master Wang wants us to do, just say the word.”

Teng Yuyi tucked the agreement into her sleeve, smiling: “No hurry. I’ll keep this agreement for now and come trouble the venerable ones another day.”

Then she asked as if casually: “The Corpse Evil hides these fangs so deeply – would pulling them out make it turn to dust? I wonder how hard they are to pull out.”

Lin Chengyou looked at Teng Yuyi and suddenly asked: “Why is Master Wang so interested in these matters today?”

Teng Yuyi’s eyes flickered: “Having encountered it several times, I’ve grown to hate it deeply. Although I’m powerless against this monster, I want to know its vulnerabilities.”

Lin Chengyou stroked his chin, about to speak when the sound of ornaments jingling announced Madam E leading a group of beautifully dressed courtesans.

Stopping before the hall, Madam E smiled and curtsied: “This humble one knows ordinary beauty doesn’t catch the Young Master’s eye, so I specially selected several courtesans accomplished in both looks and arts. Whichever the Young Master fancies, just tell this humble one.”

Every one looked – eight house managers had come at once, each with elaborate hairstyles and stunning beauty.

Lin Chengyou’s gaze swept from left to right, then he suddenly smiled: “One probably isn’t enough.”

Teng Yuyi nearly spat out her tea and quickly put down her cup.

The Daoists’ eyes flickered with envy.

Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi looked embarrassed, staring at their feet.

Madam E was dumbfounded. Although Lin Chengyou had visited the Colored Phoenix Tower twice before, he had never called for courtesans to accompany him. Had he finally come around today?

She hurriedly covered her lips with her white-handled fan, saying gleefully: “The Young Master is young and vigorous, naturally wanting to try new things. Whether one or eight, we’ll accommodate the Young Master.”

Teng Yuyi smiled inwardly as Butler Cheng quietly approached: “Young Master, the wine in your room is almost heated.”

Teng Yuyi knew Butler Cheng was making an excuse to lead her away. Though she wanted to watch the entertainment a while longer, she realized it would be inappropriate, so she rose: “I’ll take my leave first.”

The Five Daoists were distracted and paid no attention to Teng Yuyi’s farewell, but Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi hurried after her: “Master Wang, Senior Brother told us to stay with you.”

Teng Yuyi smiled meaningfully – busy seeking pleasure, of course, he would send his junior brothers away.

“Haven’t you eaten yet? I haven’t either. I’ll have them bring lunch to my room.”

“Senior Brother bought us food.” Qi Zhi patted his chest, which was indeed bulging.

As they talked while walking out, they heard Madam E say cheerfully: “There are private rooms upstairs, always reserved for honored guests. Why doesn’t the Young Master come up with this humble one? I’ll have wine and food sent up too.”

“Upstairs? No need. Just find a large room in the back garden – one that can fit eight bathtubs at once.”

Bathtubs? Eight of them!

This time not just Jue Sheng and Qi Zhi, but even Jian Mei and the others blushed. Just then, He Mingsheng arrived with two temple servants. His corpulent frame was sweating profusely: “Young Master, the bathtubs you requested are all ready. We’ve sent them to the back garden, but I don’t know what they’re for.”

Lin Chengyou put down his teacup and said lazily: “Fill the tubs with water and bring everyone to the room with the tubs to wait.”

Two of the more lively courtesans couldn’t help giggling. He Mingsheng glared at them, about to scold them, when unexpectedly Lin Chengyou took out a bar of gold and placed it on the table.

The courtesans immediately blushed. They were the finest courtesans of Pingkang Ward, skilled in music and literature. They normally wouldn’t see ordinary clients, serving only nobles and wealthy merchants. Having seen plenty of silk and jewels, logically they shouldn’t care about a mere bar of gold, but this was from the Crown Prince’s son – offering the reward in advance showed his eagerness.

Madam E laughed in surprise: “Young Master needn’t rush to reward them – there’s time after they’ve served well.”

He Mingsheng smiled suggestively: “Can’t you see? The Young Master doesn’t want to wait.”

Lin Chengyou tossed the gold bar in his hand, stood up, and smiled: “Let’s go.”

Suddenly remembering something, he turned back: “Wait – didn’t you have more house managers last time? Where are the others?”

He Mingsheng stuffed his sweat-wiping handkerchief back in his sleeve and smiled fawningly: “The Young Master has a good memory. Indeed, two are ill and resting in their rooms. This humble one feared their illness might offend the Young Master, so didn’t have them come.”

Lin Chengyou asked: “What are their names, and when did they fall ill?”

“One is called Wei Zi, one is Yao Huang. The Young Master had them identify pictures last time – you should remember them. Wei Zi has been ill for several days, while Yao Huang only reported feeling unwell this morning. This humble one already had a doctor check their pulses earlier.”

Lin Chengyou asked: “How serious is their illness?”

“Not very. With the strange events in the tower lately, Wei Zi and Yao Huang were frightened and naturally felt some weakness. They just need to take some medicine and rest for a few days.”

“If it’s not serious, then call them out too.”

Teng Yuyi’s steps faltered – this man wouldn’t even spare those who were ill.

Author’s Note: As mentioned before, the title “Double Evil” has several layers of meaning. Besides the obvious Corpse Evil and Golden-Robed Young Master, there’s also a hidden “evil.” Therefore, this volume’s plot is more complex. During the serialization period, to avoid dispersing the plot, the later content is concentrated in ten large chapters, and the mystery will be revealed soon.

If you don’t want to read about Da and Yu’s interactions and cooperative investigation, and only want to read about capturing one evil at the Colored Phoenix Tower and the double evil storyline, you can skip directly to the last Gong Yu – Chapter of this volume.