Teng Yuyi wanted to turn and leave, but remembering she hadn’t finished speaking, she steeled herself and caught up: “This Wang has one more favor to ask of the Young Master.”

Lin Chengyou said, “Whatever it is, Young Master Wang, please speak freely.”

Teng Yuyi took a small box from Butler Cheng: “Surely Juesheng has told the Young Master that before Peng Yugui died, he entrusted me with returning his and his sister’s remains to their hometown in Yuezhou. For this matter, he gave me all his strongbox keys. I opened it earlier and found that besides land deeds, house deeds, and numerous account books, there were also contracts of ownership for all the courtesans of Caifeng Tower. I know this matter requires reporting to the authorities, so I wanted to discuss with the Young Master if I could have the contracts for Juan’er Li and Baozhu, to grant them their freedom.”

Lin Chengyou’s steps faltered. To think Peng Yugui would entrust such an important matter as returning remains to one’s homeland to Teng Yuyi.

Before last night, Peng Yugui had worn a false mask all day, presumably having no deep friendship with Teng Yuyi. Before dying, Peng Yugui had also saved Juesheng’s life – to ensure absolute certainty, he should have relied on this debt of gratitude to entrust Juesheng instead. After all, working at the Court of Judicial Review would make handling such matters much more convenient.

Moreover, returning remains required substantial manpower and resources, and renovating the Peng family graves would be no simple task. Teng Yuyi surely knew how troublesome it would be, yet still agreed to Peng Yugui’s request.

Thinking further, when he had rushed over, Peng Yugui was already near death. Since Juesheng was still too young, Peng Yugui must have felt uneasy and turned to entrust Teng Yuyi instead, which wasn’t strange.

He suppressed his doubts and nodded: “I was just looking for the contracts of all the Caifeng Tower performers. Since they’re in Young Master Wang’s possession, not just Juan’er Li and Baozhu, let’s return all of them.”

Teng Yuyi hadn’t expected Lin Chengyou to have such arrangements already. This was even more straightforward than she had anticipated: “That would be best. I hear Peng Yugui’s body must first be sent to the Court of Judicial Review. Once they complete the necessary procedures, please inform me, and I will personally collect Peng Yugui’s remains.”

Lin Chengyou responded with a “Very well” and took the box Teng Yuyi handed over. Earlier, when lighting the eternal lamp for Peng Yugui, he had already thought about having someone return Peng Yugui’s remains to his hometown in Yuezhou. Since Teng Yuyi would handle it, he needn’t intervene.

As they spoke, they entered the main hall and immediately saw Peng Yugui’s body placed in the center, covered head to toe with a gray cloth. An eternal lamp sat at his feet, with Jiantian and Jianmei sitting cross-legged nearby, softly chanting something.

Lin Chengyou and Teng Yuyi’s steps halted simultaneously. Though Peng Yugui had committed grave wrongs and this end wasn’t unexpected, seeing him lying there so alone still brought melancholy to their hearts. Human nature was indeed complex, and fate often took unexpected turns. This man was only twenty-seven, yet due to the massacre of his family, he had spent nearly half his life seeking revenge.

His family had died tragically at the hands of Master and Madam Tian Yunde, his parents’ and sister’s lonely graves remained unattended to this day. For years he had hidden his true face, single-mindedly practicing dark arts for revenge, his nature growing increasingly twisted until he finally strayed from the right path. After enduring so many years, his bitter and brief life had come to an end. For Peng Yugui, this ending was perhaps a form of release.

Both their hearts felt heavy as officials and yamen runners from the Court of Judicial Review eagerly approached: “Assessor Lin, Director Yan.”

Teng Yuyi sat down in an inconspicuous corner with Butler Cheng and Huo Qiu.

The group of officials faces flushed, gathered around Lin Chengyou, talking incessantly: “Who would have thought this investigation would uncover four major cases… the massacre of Scholar Peng’s family at Taozhi Crossing in Yuezhou eleven years ago, the murder of Master and Madam Tian Yunde over a year ago, the case of Yao Huang and Qing Zhi conspiring to destroy Ge Jin’s face, and the murder of Yao Huang and Qing Zhi… These criminals were so cunning that anyone less thorough and careful could never have uncovered the truth. When the Chief Minister heard, he sighed in admiration, praising how promising the younger generation is. He’s already sent letters to His Majesty and the Yuezhou Prefecture, and is now waiting for Assessor Lin and Director Yan to return to the Court.”

Lin Chengyou listened while smiling perfunctorily, then suddenly pointed to E Ji and handed over the contracts: “Return these contracts to them. Tomorrow, line up at Wannian County to find the Household Registration Officer to cancel their lowly status. After that, each can find their path.”

The performers, hearing these words, felt as if in a dream. Some pinched their arms while others tugged their cheeks, and only after confirming it was all real did they bow in gratitude through their tears.

E Ji busied herself distributing contracts, and the hall quickly grew lively. Baozhu brought Juan’er Li to find Teng Yuyi, kneeling before her table with lowered heads.

Teng Yuyi paused mid-sip of her tea, quickly having Butler Cheng help them up: “What are you doing?”

Baozhu, tears streaming down her face: “Earlier, this servant heard Young Master Wang specifically request our contracts from the Young Master. This servant knows Young Master Wang has a cold exterior but a warm heart – even though Baozhu once failed to live up to Young Master Wang’s protection, you never held it against me. Now that the evil spirits are gone, this servant and Juan’er Li fear we may never see Young Master Wang again. Grateful for your protection these days, we’ve come to bid farewell. After today’s parting, we earnestly hope Young Master Wang takes care, takes care.”

Juan’er Li’s expression was somewhat blank as she kept kowtowing: “Thank you, Young Master Wang, thank you, Young Master Wang.”

Teng Yuyi helped them up again. Last night when the corpse demon controlled Juan’er Li, both Baozhu’s desperate attempts to stop Juan’er Li and Juan’er Li’s reluctance to harm Baozhu even as a puppet had deeply moved her. The two had been sold into this mire at such young ages, relying on each other for years until they viewed each other as sisters. This kind of life-and-death protective bond was something no amount of silver could buy.

She said: “It was just a small gesture, no need for such ceremony. Has the Taoist checked Juan’er Li? She was a puppet for a month – how is the remaining poison being cleared?”

Baozhu wiped her tears and said: “The two young Taoists said it would be more troublesome to clear than others. This morning they made some strangely colored talisman soup for Juan’er Li to drink. She vomited quite a bit of black water and her mind has cleared somewhat, but the Taoists said it would take at least a year or more to fully recover. They gave half a year’s worth of Heart-Clearing Pills, telling Juan’er Li to take one daily, and to return to Qingyun Temple for another check in half a year.”

Teng Yuyi suddenly said: “I have something to ask you.”

Baozhu froze: “Please ask, Young Master Wang.”

“That time when you and Juan’er Li performed music in my room, Juan’er Li had barely started playing when your expression changed – why was that?”

Baozhu said shamefully: “This servant’s small thoughts indeed couldn’t escape Young Master Wang’s notice. This servant and Juan’er Li spend day and night together, so I know her habits when tuning the qin just by listening. This servant felt something was wrong as soon as I heard it. Who would have thought she had already been bewitched by the corpse demon then? I only thought she was confused by illness and, fearing she would be scolded by Madam E, quickly changed the subject. Only when the corpse demon broke in last night did this servant realize something was amiss and hurriedly told the five Taoists, but it was too late.”

Teng Yuyi sighed inwardly – indeed it was so. The demon’s prowess lay in its ability to exploit everyone’s weaknesses and private concerns.

“Never mind, let’s not speak of past events.” She took two precious pearls from her sleeve and handed them to the two: “You haven’t officially received clients yet, so your saved tips must be few. From now on you’ll have to rely on yourselves – take these.”

Baozhu startled, quickly pulling Juan’er Li to stand: “We dare not accept. Not having to sell our smiles and bodies is already an enormous blessing. This servant has hands and feet, and is still young – whether sewing and mending, making cakes and cooking porridge, we can make a living doing anything.”

Teng Yuyi: “You have no one to rely on – making a living isn’t so easy. Use this money to get through the difficult times first, and later I’ll have Butler Cheng help you find good work.”

Baozhu still firmly refused to accept.

Teng Yuyi deliberately darkened her expression: “I’m no Bodhisattva – refuse again and I’ll take them back. Juan’er Li can barely speak now – where will she find work? If you don’t think of yourself, at least think of her.”

Only then did Baozhu accept with tear-filled eyes.

By this time, Lin Chengyou had finished handing over matters and was about to direct the yamen runners to carry out Peng Yugui’s body. Hearing this conversation, he glanced at Teng Yuyi, then turned to Juesheng and Qizhi behind him: “Didn’t you want to say goodbye to Young Master Wang? Go on.”

Juesheng and Qizhi hurried to Teng Yuyi: “Young Master Wang, we have to return to Qingyun Temple.”

Both felt extremely reluctant to part – after these days together, they had come to view Teng Yuyi as a close friend who had shared life and death with them. After today’s farewell, who knew when they would meet again.

How could Teng Yuyi be any more willing to part with Juesheng and Qizhi? She turned to open her bundle, stuffing all the preserved fruits and vegetarian snacks into their arms: “Made by our manor’s cook – better than what you can buy outside. Another day I’ll have someone send some Jade Dew Balls you like to Qingyun Temple. In the future, whatever you want to eat, just have someone let me know.”

Juesheng and Qizhi asked with reddened faces: “Young Master Wang, can we come to find you to play in the future?”

Teng Yuyi smiled: “If you don’t come find me, I’ll come find you to play.”

She had Butler Cheng untie the token from her waist and give it to them: “If you want to come find me, just show this to the guards at the gate.”

Juesheng and Qizhi happily accepted the token, then each took out a dirty wooden tablet from their waists: “Young Master Wang, when you want to come to Qingyun Temple, just bring these.”

One was carved crookedly with the character “Jue,” and the other had a clumsy “Qi.” Teng Yuyi held back her smile as she carefully put them away: “Understood.”

As she spoke, she looked up and happened to meet Lin Chengyou’s gaze. He had waited patiently all this while without urging them. Seeing they were about finished, he finally said: “Alright, the carriage is waiting outside – time to go.”

Just then, Huo Qiu came in to report: “Young Master, the Master has arrived.”

Teng Yuyi hurriedly went out with Juesheng and Qizhi.

Teng Shao had been trapped in Dayin Temple these past few days. This morning, learning the two evil spirits were eliminated, he immediately felt a great weight lift from his heart. After bidding farewell to the temple monks, he led his people to fetch his daughter. Unfortunately, Teng Yuyi was in a deep sleep, so Teng Shao personally stood guard outside. Who knew His Majesty would suddenly summon him at noon? Teng Shao had to leave Butler Cheng and others to look after his daughter while he left first.

When Teng Yuyi came out, she saw her father surrounded by a group of officials, their greetings endless.

She secretly observed her father. Father must have worried about her safety – in just a few short days he had grown notably haggard, though fortunately his spirit remained good and his voice clear and steady.

“…Thanks to the Young Master and the Taoists’ devoted protection, my Wang surname niece and the people of Chang’an fortunately escaped disaster… I have prepared some modest wine, hoping only to repay you with a toast…”

Teng Yuyi listened while getting into the carriage. Once the curtain fell, the outside voices grew fainter. She couldn’t hear Lin Chengyou’s response clearly, but she heard five voices that couldn’t hide their joy: “Ai ai ai, we of the Taoist path should naturally help those in need and aid the weak – these words are too kind… Of course, since General Teng shows such goodwill, this poor Taoist shouldn’t decline…”

Butler Cheng signaled the driver to set off, but Teng Yuyi said “Wait a moment” and lifted the window curtain to look out. She saw all the performers from Caifeng Tower crowded at the entrance, showing reluctance to part.

Teng Yuyi felt somewhat emotional as her gaze swept over everyone, finally landing on E Ji, who was animatedly talking with the singing girls beside her.

Teng Yuyi discreetly studied E Ji for a while, then felt she was being oversensitive. She unconsciously looked toward Lin Chengyou, who happened to be casually gazing at E Ji as well, his eyes lightly sweeping across E Ji’s face before quickly looking away.

As she lowered the window curtain, she wondered secretly if Lin Chengyou also felt something was amiss.

After conversing with everyone, Teng Shao departed with his daughter and servants.

Lin Chengyou mounted his horse in front of the tower. As he raised his whip, he glimpsed Teng Yuyi’s departing carriage and suddenly remembered his string of Dark Sound Bells was still on her wrist. He instinctively wanted to chase after her but immediately reined in his horse. Never mind – when she notices herself, she’ll have someone return them to him. If she forgets, he can have someone retrieve them in a few days.

The sky had nearly darkened by the time the Teng father and daughter returned to their manor. The Du family of four was already waiting there, and seeing Teng Yuyi return safe and sound, they were overcome with joy.

Though Teng Shao didn’t show it on his face, he was extremely happy inside. He gladly ordered Butler Cheng to arrange wine and food, and the whole family sat down together for a lively meal.

After the meal, Du Yuzhi went with Teng Shao to the study to discuss court matters, while Madam Du took the three younger ones to the inner garden for casual conversation.

Teng Yuyi drew out the Little Cliff Sword, demonstrating her newly learned sword techniques to her aunt and cousins. Of course, she only showed the Conquest of Evil technique and the half-learned Wearing Coarse Cloth technique. As for the Peach Blossom sword technique that Lin Chengyou had taught her, she vaguely felt something wasn’t quite right about it, so she didn’t demonstrate it openly.

Du Shaotang originally didn’t believe that the Fire Jade Spirit Root soup could increase one’s power, but who knew his cousin’s every move would be so sharp and fierce? When he tried to imitate her moves, he couldn’t even maintain two stances.

After Du Shaotang tried, Du Tinglan also snatched the sword to join in the fun. However, towards the end it turned into mere flowery movements, making Teng Yuyi and Du Shaotang double over with laughter, while Madam Du shook her head with an amused sigh.

Teng Yuyi laughingly took back the sword, demonstrating once more amidst the laughter.

As it happened, Teng Shao and Du Yuzhi had also arrived, looking up to see Teng Yuyi holding the small sword and running back and forth in the courtyard. Du Yuzhi was so startled he stumbled, while Teng Shao was both surprised and delighted.

After watching for a while, he couldn’t help but step forward to correct his daughter’s arm position: “This isn’t quite right. Though you’re practicing sword techniques, you must maintain your foundational skills. When striking, your lower body must be stable – only then can you channel your intent to the sword tip.”

In his heart, he thought about how many years it had been since he’d seen such an unrestrained smile on his daughter’s face. For a moment, he felt dazed, as if time had flowed backward to that period ten years ago when Huiniang was still alive when his daughter’s tiny figure would run happily through the manor like a butterfly dancing in the spring breeze. He felt both bitter and gratified and so was especially attentive to his instruction.

Teng Yuyi tried again according to his guidance, but it still wasn’t quite right. Du Shaotang couldn’t help but burst out laughing, earning a glare from Teng Yuyi, who then pressed her father to point out her mistakes. When she struck again with her sword, her technique was perfectly proper.

The Du family rarely saw father and daughter so harmonious, and all smiled along in good humor. Teng Yuyi, feeling she had learned enough, then dragged Du Shaotang to learn with her. Du Shaotang most feared hardship – after learning just a few moves, he took advantage of Teng Yuyi’s distraction to run away. Teng Yuyi wouldn’t let him off, lifting her robes to chase after him. The scene was utterly comical, making the whole family collapse in laughter, even Teng Shao shaking his head with a smile.

That night the Du family stayed at the Teng manor, departing only after breakfast the next day.

After seeing off her aunt’s family, Teng Yuyi had Chunrong and Biluo fetch a set of men’s clothes, planning to review her sword techniques in the garden before Butler Cheng arrived.

While changing clothes, she noticed the Dark Sound Bells on her wrist and froze for a moment. Oh no, she had forgotten to return them to Lin Chengyou yesterday. These magical items were meant to guard against the corpse demon’s sneak attacks – now that the demon was gone, they should naturally be returned to their original owner.

She gently tried to slide them off but found she couldn’t. Had she gained weight during these days at Caifeng Tower? No, that couldn’t be right – with poor eating and sleeping these days, not losing weight would be fortunate enough. Looking at herself in the mirror, her face was somewhat thinner than when she first arrived in Chang’an.

Fearing she might damage the bells, she carefully increased her force, but the string of bells seemed as if they had grown onto her wrist. She called Chunrong and Biluo to help, but even the two maids had no way to remove them. In the blink of an eye, every maid in the room had tried – some fetching water, some applying soap – but they still couldn’t pull them off.

“Wait.” Teng Yuyi raised her hand thoughtfully. “These are magical items from Qingyun Temple – it would be terrible if we damaged them. Let’s do this: tomorrow I’ll have someone ask the young Taoists Juesheng and Qizhi how to remove them. Let’s not mess with them ourselves for now.”

Only then did the maids disperse. Teng Yuyi finished changing clothes and ran to the garden to practice the Conquest of Evil sword technique. Turning around to see Butler Cheng, she not only didn’t stop but instead thrust her sword toward him.

Butler Cheng transformed his palm into a blade, lightly deflecting Teng Yuyi’s move.

Teng Yuyi happily withdrew her sword: “Butler Cheng, I’ve completely mastered this Conquest of Evil technique now – please continue teaching me what comes next.”

Butler Cheng smiled and said: “I was just about to discuss this with Young Miss. This morning, the Master instructed this old servant that since Young Miss is enthusiastic, we should quickly help Young Miss build a proper foundation traditionally. Before joining the army, Huo Qiu was a direct disciple of the Xiaoyao School, with outstanding lightness skills and decent sword techniques – he would be perfect to teach Young Miss lightness skills and swordplay. Dun Fu’s close combat skills are unmatched in the world – he can teach Young Miss self-defense techniques.”

He then added in a whisper: “The Master was so happy he couldn’t sleep all night.”

Teng Yuyi coughed as if uninterested, walking up the steps with her hands behind her back. She lifted her robes and sat cross-legged on the cushion in the pavilion: “I didn’t get a chance to tell Father last night – does he know about me helping the Peng siblings return home for burial?”

“This old servant has reported the entire matter to the Master in detail. The Master didn’t say much after hearing it, only that since we’ve agreed to fulfill someone’s dying wish, we must handle it properly and thoroughly. This morning, this old servant has already sent people to Luoyang. When Miss Peng’s remains are brought back in the coming days, we can begin preparing to return the brother and sister to Yuezhou for burial.”

Teng Yuyi nodded, turning to glance at Butler Cheng. Peng Yugui’s final words had been whispered in her ear – even Butler Cheng hadn’t heard them.

“Butler Cheng, do you remember when I inquired about that man in the black cloak and the silver wire weapon he used?”

“This old servant remembers.”

“The hidden weapon Peng Yugui used last night was the same silver wire that the black-cloaked man used. I guess Lin Chengyou also thought of using silver wire to see the corpse demon’s fangs after hearing the tale of the Corpse King of Nanzhao. Before he died, Peng Yugui told me the origin of this silver wire.”

Butler Cheng’s expression grew serious: “Did this Peng Yugui have some connection to that black-cloaked man?”

Teng Yuyi frowned and shook her head: “I don’t know, but I guess Peng Yugui didn’t know this black-cloaked man either, or he wouldn’t have voluntarily told me about this. But regardless, this is an important clue – they might have learned the same dark arts from the same source. Looking into this is bound to yield results. Immediately send someone to watch an ironmonger’s shop called You Migui in the Western Market. If they see a ruffian called Zhuang Mu, find a way to get information from him – Peng Yugui got the hidden weapon from this man back then. As soon as there’s news, inform me immediately.”

This wait lasted an entire day. During this time, Huo Qiu officially began teaching Teng Yuyi lightness skills. Teng Yuyi studied extremely diligently, and with the foundation of the Fire Jade Spirit Root soup and Peach Blossom sword technique, it was much easier than when she first started learning. Even so, by the end of the day, her whole body felt like it was about to fall apart.

Butler Cheng came to report in the evening, saying that the ironmonger’s shop was closed – forget about seeing a ruffian called Zhuang Mu, they hadn’t even seen the owner. He had already posted people to watch nearby and would report immediately if there was any movement.

“Additionally, all of Miss Du’s letters from Lu Zhao’an have been retrieved.”

Teng Yuyi clapped her hands in approval: “Keep watching Lu Zhao’an and don’t let up on the Western Market either. Oh right, are the two young Taoists at the temple?”

“They’re not,” Butler Cheng said. “I heard the Purple Pole Palace in Luoyang is holding a grand Taoist ceremony, and all major temples in both capitals must send representatives to attend. Since Master Qingxu was traveling and the Young Master couldn’t spare the time, Qingyun Temple had no choice but to send the two young Taoists as representatives to Luoyang. They say it will be several days before they return.”

A smile leaked from Teng Yuyi’s lips – she couldn’t imagine how the two chubby boys would serve as temple representatives. This was troublesome enough, but she had been counting on Juesheng and Qizhi to help remove the Dark Sound Bells. Now that they were gone, did this mean she would have to discuss this matter with Lin Chengyou?

Butler Cheng then presented a gold-dusted invitation to Teng Yuyi: “Vice Minister Liu of the Ministry of Revenue is celebrating his birthday. They just delivered invitations to various manors. His Majesty personally wrote a congratulatory message. The birthday feast will be held at the estate in Wangchuan, supposedly lasting three days, with a special invitation for young ladies and young masters from various manors to attend and enjoy themselves. Young Miss, Vice Minister Liu is His Majesty’s brother-in-law – this invitation absolutely cannot be declined.”

Teng Yuyi opened the gold-dusted invitation. This Minister Liu had previously been the Chief Minister of the Court of Judicial Review. After his daughter married His Majesty, the Imperial Brother-in-law continued to work diligently, refusing to take high positions or wield power and influence. His Majesty had tried to confer titles on him multiple times, but the Imperial Brother-in-law had always politely declined. Every time her uncle mentioned this matter, he praised Minister Liu as a model for all officials.

“Will Father go?”

“The Master naturally must attend.” Butler Cheng smiled and said, “But the Teng manor has only Young Miss among its womenfolk. It happens to coincide with officials coming to the capital for their reports, so there will certainly be many ladies and young misses attending to offer birthday wishes. Young Miss should prepare well.”

“I understand.” Teng Yuyi nodded, thinking to herself that Father would be too busy with his official reports to care about these miscellaneous matters. She added, “Let’s prepare the birthday gifts first.”

Butler Cheng nodded with satisfaction and was about to take his leave when Teng Yuyi called him back: “Oh right, Butler Cheng, bring some fine fabrics from the storehouse – the kind men wear.”

Butler Cheng assumed Teng Yuyi wanted to make some men’s robes for herself to conveniently go out in the future. He responded with an “Alright” and went to make arrangements.

Before long, Butler Cheng returned with others. Teng Yuyi looked to see several trays filled with fabrics of various colors, presumably from various regions of Jiangnan.

She pointed to two pieces of fabric in sapphire blue and dark red, saying firmly: “Not these two colors.”

Butler Cheng was puzzled – since coming to Chang’an, Young Miss had been extremely wary of sapphire blue and dark red. Even when worn by senior stewards in the manor, she would insist they change immediately.

“Yes.” He took out those two pieces of fabric and handed them to the servants behind him.

Teng Yuyi added: “If there are any more fabrics of these two colors in the storehouse, give them all as rewards to Father’s subordinates. And don’t accept any more fabric of these colors into the manor in the future.”

She picked through them for a while, not quite satisfied: “Are there other fabrics in the storehouse?”

Butler Cheng hadn’t expected Teng Yuyi to take this matter so seriously. Suddenly remembering that the Master’s birthday was in half a month, a thought flashed through his mind – could Young Miss be planning to personally make clothes for the Master?

Overjoyed, he said with a trembling voice: “There are more in the storehouse. This old servant will go get them right away.”

A moment later, Butler Cheng hurried back with others carrying fabric – this time all fine silk gauze, along with various patterned silk gauzes from Wu and Yue regions, light and soft with a mirror-like sheen.

Teng Yuyi frowned slightly. These were already rare premium goods, but she still found them insufficient. It was already mid-spring – in two months it would be summer. With Father busy with military affairs every day, clothes worn on his body should naturally be as cool and comfortable as possible.

In her view, the ones Lin Chengyou wore were quite good, but unfortunately, those were palace items – even if she wanted to find similar ones, there was nowhere to look. She’d heard the Western Market often had expensive foreign silks – perhaps she should go take a look?

No sooner thought than decided: “These aren’t good enough. I’ll go personally and select some at the Western Market in a few days. Dun Fu’s injuries should be mostly healed by now – have him accompany me. We can also look around near You Migui’s ironmonger shop while we’re there, hopefully finding some clues early.”

Having made these arrangements, Teng Yuyi returned to her courtyard to bathe. Coming out and changing into a clean robe, she felt her whole body aching.

Learning martial arts wasn’t easy, she sighed while rubbing her sore shoulders.

She made her way to the low couch by the window and sprawled out. Just as she was about to call Chunrong to bring in the “beauty mallet,” she suddenly felt the Little Cliff Sword growing warm. She froze, then quickly called out: “I’m going to rest for a while – don’t come in and disturb me.”

After speaking, she gently tapped the sword hilt and said softly: “Come out.”

Little Cliff didn’t move at first. After quite a while, he slowly emerged. One look at his appearance startled Teng Yuyi: “Are you sick?”

Little Cliff’s eye sockets were sunken, his cheeks shriveled, and his mung bean eyes, usually gleaming with spirit, were now small and lifeless.

Little Cliff climbed onto the low couch with barely any strength, sprawling out just as Teng Yuyi had done earlier: “You finally remembered this old fellow.”

Teng Yuyi felt panic rising – could sword spirits get sick? “Where are you unwell? Do you need wine? I’ll go get some right away.”

Little Cliff raised one tiny hand to grab Teng Yuyi’s sleeve, weakly shaking his head: “It’s no use. The other night when I helped you resist the corpse demon and the Golden-Robed Young Master, the karmic blessing from one of those evil beings fell to you – I just checked, and the killing energy around you has decreased quite a bit. But I’m the unlucky one. Killing such evil beings consumes the most spiritual power. Originally supplying me once a month would have been enough, but now it needs to be advanced. You must quickly get me some Embryonic Breath Transformation Water, or my spiritual power won’t be able to recover fully. Hurry and go – it’s at Qingyun Temple.”

Teng Yuyi froze – she had thought Little Cliff was joking, but it turned out to be true.

She crouched by the couch and asked anxiously: “Does it have to be bath water from Lin Chengyou and Juesheng and Qizhi? Won’t anyone else’s do?”

Little Cliff yawned drowsily: “It won’t work. In Chang’an, only those brothers are Three Pure Ones’ Child-Spirits. Carelessly using someone else’s bath water would only weaken this old fellow’s spiritual power.”

Teng Yuyi stood up and paced anxiously. It was particularly troublesome that Juesheng and Qizhi had gone to Luoyang – otherwise, she could have found a way with them. What to do now? Both Qingyun Temple and the Prince’s Manor had extremely strict security – stealing wasn’t feasible. Could she directly ask Lin Chengyou for his bath water?

That would be too shameless. Moreover, even if she asked, given Lin Chengyou’s personality, not only would he not give it to her, he might even mock her severely.

“Do you need it right away?”

“It can’t be more than three days. Think of something quickly.” Little Cliff grew increasingly drowsy as he spoke. His head tilted to one side, and he simply started snoring on the couch.

Teng Yuyi’s heart burned with anxiety as she paced around the room considering options. Suddenly she glimpsed the gold-dusted invitation on the table. His Majesty and the Empress viewed Lin Chengyou as their son – for the Empress’s father’s birthday, Lin Chengyou would certainly go offer congratulations. Since the feast would last three days, surely the Wangchuan estate would have bathing pools. Perhaps she could have Shaotang help her…

***

Lin Chengyou had no idea someone was thinking about his bath water. After leaving Caifeng Tower, he first returned to Qingyun Temple with Jun Nu for a good night’s rest, then early the next day saw Juesheng and Qizhi off in their carriage, admonishing them not to embarrass themselves at the Taoist gathering. Afterward, he went to the Court of Judicial Review to organize case files, staying busy for an entire day. When he emerged at dusk and asked his attendant Kuan Nu, he learned that Teng Yuyi still hadn’t returned the Dark Sound Bells to him.

Lin Chengyou thought to himself, interesting – it had been a whole day, surely Teng Yuyi should have remembered by now.

These bells were unique in the world, originally hidden in Master’s treasure box. That day he had managed to pry open the box and steal them out, planning to lend them to Teng Yuyi for a few days before giving them to Azhi, but once given away they had vanished without a trace.

Surely they hadn’t been sent to Qingyun Temple? Just as he was about to send Kuan Nu to inquire at the temple, he learned His Majesty was concerned about him and had to ride back to the palace first.

Their Majesties had been unable to eat or sleep properly these past few days, fearing Lin Chengyou might have an accident while capturing the demons. Yesterday, hearing he had successfully subdued the two evil beings, their suspended hearts finally settled somewhat. Then learning he was injured, they immediately sent several palace elders and Imperial Physician Yu out of the palace. The group had intercepted Lin Chengyou at the Court of Judicial Review and wouldn’t leave until they had re-bandaged his wounds and applied medicine.

Even so, the Emperor remained worried. As soon as Lin Chengyou entered the palace, he grabbed him to personally examine the wounds, only relaxing after confirming there was no residual demon poison.

“You child.” Empress Liu Bingyu passed medicine powder to the Emperor from the side. “Master Qingxu isn’t in Chang’an, your parents aren’t in Chang’an either – if something happened to you, what would we do?”

Lin Chengyou smiled and turned to get off the couch: “Nephew was wrong. I thought they were just surface wounds, and sending word that I was safe would be enough. I intended to not worry my elders, but instead caused both of you anxiety. It’s all nephew’s fault for not thinking it through – next time I’ll come to the palace earlier.”

Liu Bingyu pursed her lips: “Changyi and Azhi learned you were coming to the palace and have been making a fuss all afternoon. Tonight you’ll stay in the palace – you’re not allowed to go anywhere. I’ll have them prepare things – tonight the whole family will eat something special.”

Lin Chengyou knew his aunt was most enthusiastic about collecting delicacies from around the world. He smiled in agreement: “I expect there will be good things to eat again. Nephew has a whole basket of things to discuss with both elders – even if Aunt tries to drive me away, I won’t leave.”

Liu Bingyu glared at him but couldn’t suppress her smile, departing cheerfully with her palace maids.

The Emperor wanted to keep a stern face, but having been accustomed to showing affection to Lin Chengyou, he waved for the palace servants to withdraw and said solemnly: “This morning Zhang Tingrui from the Court of Judicial Review made a report. The case details have been clarified, but even he doesn’t fully understand the demon-catching part. Tell me the whole matter in detail.”

Lin Chengyou then explained the entire course of events from beginning to end.

The Emperor pondered briefly: “You suspect this E Ji is problematic?”

Lin Chengyou nodded: “Even while investigating the Peng Yugui case, the nephew felt this lady’s words were full of holes. That night the Golden-Robed Young Master was about to relent, but this E Ji suddenly mentioned the corpse demon’s death. The Young Master was provoked and thus angrily took his own life. One could say it was unintentional, but nephew feels it’s too coincidental.”

The Emperor considered: “According to you, the two evil beings broke through the formation last month. If no one at Caifeng Tower was helping to cover it up, it couldn’t have remained so peaceful. But there’s only so much she could do alone – likely someone else was in charge.”

“Nephew has already arranged for people to secretly watch E Ji day and night, instructing them not to alert anyone. Once we understand who is meeting with E Ji, we can catch them all at once.”

The Emperor had been rising early and retiring late due to court matters, with fatigue visible between his brows: “Recently many officials are coming to the capital for reports, and the various military governors also—”

At this moment, a childish voice came from outside the hall: “Is Big Brother here?”

Palace servants tried to stop them in low voices, but the Emperor shook his head with a smiling sigh: “Let them in.”

Before his words finished, two small figures in fine silks whirled in like tornados, followed by a group of palace maids bowing anxiously. Lin Chengyou lazily opened his arms, waiting until Changyi and Azhi ran up before catching them both: “Run slower – be careful not to fall.”

Changyi glimpsed the wound on Lin Chengyou’s arm and her expression changed: “Big Brother, are you hurt?”

Azhi gently touched it: “Brother, does it hurt?”

“Brother doesn’t hurt.”

Tears welled in Azhi’s clear eyes as she carefully observed Lin Chengyou’s expression, wanting to know if her brother wasn’t in pain.

Lin Chengyou rarely matched her seriousness, but this time he sighed softly: “Brother doesn’t hurt.”

He tapped Azhi’s sweaty nose and stroked Changyi’s head, then took out two sets of small toys he’d gotten from the foreign goods merchant Sabo in the Western Market, smiling: “See if you like these.”

Azhi’s cheeks flushed red with delight. She hugged her brother’s neck and gave him several quick kisses before opening her chubby white fingers to accept the gift: “Brother, play with me.”

Changyi was more composed. Seeing it was a small wooden puppet of a black Kunlun slave, she curiously played with it for a moment before bringing it to the Emperor: “Father, look – even its fingers can move.”

The Emperor looked at the three children lovingly, his smile as soft as melted cream. He took the toy and examined it carefully, then bent down to pick up Changyi: “Come, let’s see what good things your mother has prepared for dinner.”

Azhi was worried about her brother’s wound and wouldn’t let him carry her, so Lin Chengyou held her hand as they walked slowly behind.

Azhi raised her toy figure high in excitement: “In two days it’s Imperial Uncle’s father’s birthday – we can leave the palace!”

Changyi also poked her head out from her father’s arms: “Big Brother, have you heard? The Yunyin Academy is reopening. Since many ladies will be attending Grandfather’s birthday, Mother wants to personally select a group of young ladies to study at Yunyin Academy.”

Lin Chengyou walked and listened, unconsciously reaching the corridor. A fragrant breeze blew toward them, carrying a faint, pure scent. His heart stirred – this serene fragrance seemed familiar. He turned his head searching for flowering trees but couldn’t tell where the scent was coming from. Picking up a flower petal that had fallen on his shoulder to examine it, he asked casually: “Yunyin Academy?”

The Emperor sighed ahead: “Yes, your mother and Bingyu first met at Yunyin Academy. It feels like just yesterday – time flows like smoke, and nearly twenty years have passed in the blink of an eye. This time your aunt strongly advocates reopening the women’s academy, and I completely agree. It’s perfect timing since your parents will return to Chang’an next month to fetch Azhi – we can take this opportunity to get your mother’s input as well.”

Suddenly a small palace servant peeked out from behind the corridor. Immediately an elder palace servant scolded in a low voice: “Who’s sneaking around?”

The small eunuch prostrated himself trembling: “Kuan Nu has a message for His Highness the Young Master.”

Hearing “Kuan Nu,” Lin Chengyou quickly said: “It’s probably something from the Court of Judicial Review. Uncle, let me go see.”

Coming closer, he told the small eunuch to rise: “What did Kuan Nu say?”

“Kuan Nu says that Young Master Wang hasn’t sent the Dark Sound Bells to Qingyun Temple.”