As Teng Yu’yi waited for Bi Luo to heat another pot of wine, Chun Rong announced that the master had arrived.
The East Wing typically didn’t allow male visitors, especially at this late hour. However, since Teng Shao was Teng Yu’yi’s father and had already explained the circumstances to Abbot Yuan Jue, the temple not only permitted his entry but specifically assigned two young novice monks to guide him.
Teng Yu’yi and Du Tinglan both stepped forward to bow to Teng Shao.
“Father.”
“Uncle, blessings to you.”
Teng Shao nodded to Du Tinglan: “Good child, you may rise.”
He then turned to examine his daughter. Her demeanor appeared reasonably calm—other children encountering such circumstances would likely have been frightened out of their wits. Feeling both relieved and pained, he dismissed the servants and said, “Stay at the temple for now. You must keep guards by your side at all times. I just discussed matters further with the Abbot—while the Quan Fang Pavilion is still under renovation, several meditation rooms are quite habitable. The Abbot has agreed to let Duan Fu stay there. This way, he can quickly come to your aid if anything happens.”
No wonder Father arrived so late. It was widely known that Duan Fu’s body was different from others, so such arrangements wouldn’t risk causing trouble for other young ladies.
Teng Yu’yi said, “Father, Duan Fu saw that black-robed person today.”
Teng Shao paused, taking a moment to realize his daughter was referring to the person from her dream.
He was shocked—the impact of these words was as devastating as a thunderbolt.
“Where did you see them? At the Yuzhen Daoist Temple?”
Teng Yu’yi nodded and went to the courtyard gate to summon Duan Fu.
Duan Fu recounted the day’s events to Teng Shao in detail.
Teng Shao stared intently at Duan Fu. Never before had a moment felt so absurd and terrifying as now. What had been merely a shadow in his daughter’s dream had now manifestly appeared in reality.
“What school of martial arts did that person practice?”
Duan Fu was a martial arts fanatic who had willingly become a eunuch to practice an extraordinary technique. After years immersed in martial arts, he had thoroughly studied all manner of fighting styles in the jianghu.
“It somewhat resembled the Xiaoyao Sect’s lightness technique, but not entirely. The Xiaoyao Sect shares origins with the Eight Trigrams Palm, emphasizing ‘movement following intent.’ When executing their lightness technique, their posture is extremely fluid. However, the black-robed person’s movements carried a notably sharper edge.”
Teng Yu’yi was startled—could this be too much of a coincidence? At the Cai Feng Tower, Peng Yugui had posed as a Daoist and called himself the “Wandering Immortal.” No, it wasn’t a coincidence—don’t forget that Peng Yugui’s silver thread was identical to the black-robed person’s hidden weapon.
She had long suspected they came from the same sect.
Such dark arts could be learned much faster than conventional martial arts, which explains why Peng Yugui, despite only beginning formal training in his twenties, had learned so well and so quickly.
Teng Shao asked, “You couldn’t identify their style?”
Duan Fu lowered his eyes and said, “At least this old servant has never crossed paths with someone using such martial arts.”
“If even someone of your expertise cannot discern their methods, it must be a new sect,” Teng Shao said gravely. “Developing a new martial arts style usually means raising an ‘army.’ They conceal their edge because the time isn’t right to reveal it. In martial arts, knowing both yourself and your opponent is crucial. Once you’ve exchanged moves a few times, flaws in technique will inevitably show. This person has never displayed this lightness technique in public, indicating extreme caution—they don’t want to show their hand before formally taking action.”
This reasoning made sense. Teng Yu’yi unconsciously glanced at the Xuan Pu Pavilion ahead. As Father explained it, this black-robed person did seem like someone the Peng family might be secretly nurturing.
In her previous life, when those many practitioners of dark arts suddenly appeared in Chang’an, the investigation revealed they were all “Celestial Soldiers and Generals” bred by Peng Zhen. The only difference was that in her previous life, they had all been kept in the dark, while in this life she knew about it in advance. Perhaps the black-robed person suspected she knew something and therefore acted ahead of schedule.
But in her previous life, when she and her servants were killed, the Peng family had already risen in rebellion—what benefit would kill her then bring to the Peng family? After consideration, she maintained her original suspicion: this person didn’t seem to be raised by the Peng family.
She shared all her conjectures with her father.
Teng Shao remained silent.
Setting aside the black-robed person’s identity, no matter how extraordinary they were, how could they have known that Yu’er would dream of their murders in advance?
Why would such a cautious person suddenly take action today…
At this thought, his expression suddenly darkened. Could it be that during the time he had people investigating the black-robed person, someone had leaked information? Having learned they were being investigated, the person decided to strike first.
But this matter was arranged by him, and he had personally selected the people involved.
Cheng An, Duan Fu, and Huo Qiu had served by his side for many years—each was a death guard sworn to absolute loyalty. If they harbored ill intentions, they’d had plenty of opportunities to harm him and his daughter. Why go to such lengths to arrange a group of skilled black-robed warriors?
So it couldn’t be those three.
Having commanded armies for many years and never losing a battle, he had enough judgment to read people.
So where exactly had things gone wrong?
Thinking carefully, since A’yu had told him about this, his subordinates had been investigating for quite some time. As time passed, controls inevitably loosened. His old subordinates now all held high positions, and with more people under them… there were correspondingly more places where information could leak.
Even so, to gather intelligence from his side would require some familiarity with the situation here.
Some familiarity…
His gaze turned stern. They couldn’t nurture a festering sore—immediate action was necessary. However, after running through all the suspicious individuals in his mind, he couldn’t pinpoint exactly where the leak had occurred.
“Tell me the escape route that person took,” Teng Shao said to Duan Fu. “When you saw that person in your dream, A’yu, it was under moonlight. Today in broad daylight, what material was the black robe made of? Were there any unusual sounds? Think carefully about everything.”
Duan Fu responded: “That person turned each corner without hesitation as if they had planned the escape route. I remember they turned four corners, but when they were about to make the fifth turn, they suddenly turned right instead. This pause naturally cost them some time—if this old servant hadn’t been rushing back to the Yuzhen Daoist Temple, we might have caught up to them. I remember that alley was E’er Lane.”
“Originally planning to turn left, but suddenly turning right…” Teng Yu’yi pondered, saying, “Either they were used to the route and instinctively followed their usual path, or possibly they were deliberately trying to mislead us…”
Du Tinglan suddenly exclaimed: “E’er Lane? That name sounds so familiar as if I’ve heard it somewhere.”
Teng Yu’yi and Teng Shao both looked at Du Tinglan, who wracked his brains for a while before saying helplessly, “I can’t remember right now.”
Teng Shao nodded and said, “Time is of the essence. I will have people investigate immediately. Before, this person was in the shadows, but now that they’ve shown themselves, things become clearer. The deeper we investigate, the more flaws will emerge.”
Suddenly remembering what Abbot Yuan Jue had said today, he couldn’t help but turn to gaze at his daughter. After hesitating for a moment, he asked, “A’yu, when you nearly drowned that day, did you dream of your mother?”
Teng Yu’yi was shocked: “Mother?”
Teng Shao forced a smile: “When you were four years old, you visited the Puti Temple on the shore—your mother took you there. But you were too young then, so it’s natural you don’t remember. Father just wanted to ask if you saw your mother in your dreams during those days you were passing the temple by boat?”
Teng Yu’yi’s heart began to race. Since she had awakened, her dreams had been filled only with demons and monsters—how could she have seen her deeply missed mother?
She remained lost in thought for a long while before shaking her head dejectedly: “I didn’t dream of her.”
Teng Shao was quiet for a moment before saying hoarsely, “Very well, Father will take his leave now.”
***
At the Xuan Pu Pavilion.
Second Lady Peng gazed at the table full of delicacies and kept muttering, “What a miscalculation, what a miscalculation. Sister prepared all these wonderful dishes, but those two little Daoists didn’t come at all.”
Peng Huayue calmly turned a page in her book without responding.
Peng Jinxiu pouted and walked over to snatch the book from Peng Huayue’s hands: “Ever since coming to Chang’an, Sister has been reading books all day. You couldn’t be trying to cram because Her Majesty the Empress favors well-read ladies, could you? Our Peng family has a long military tradition, and even Mother was a military officer’s daughter. We never liked studying books since childhood—it’s too late to learn now.”
Peng Huayue glared at her: “Give it back!”
Her harsh tone startled Peng Jinxiu, who had always been somewhat afraid of her twin sister. She sheepishly returned the book and flopped onto the couch, leaning her head close to her sister’s to whisper: “Hey, when did Li Huaigu become so close with those two little Daoists?”
Peng Huayue sneered: “How would I know?”
Peng Jinxiu played with the round grape-patterned silver sachet at her sister’s waist: “I know why you’re unhappy—you must have taken a liking to Lin Chengyou—”
Startled, Peng Huayue quickly widened her eyes and hushed her: “Lower your voice! This isn’t our mansion—the walls have ears.”
Peng Jinxiu giggled and teased her sister in a whisper: “Oh, I understand now. Sister either wants to be the Crown Prince’s consort… Don’t worry, whoever you fancy, I won’t compete with you. As for the one next door…”
She glanced toward the neighboring quarters: “No matter how beautiful Li San Niang is or how many books she reads, she’s no match for Sister. I heard Mother say that her father was merely a vice general under Teng Yu’yi’s father, only promoted after achieving some merits. Such newly rich upstarts can’t possibly compare to our Peng family.”
Peng Huayue’s almond eyes darted to her sister, impressed by these words. She couldn’t help but put down her book and smile: “You, sometimes confused and sometimes clever.”
She pondered for a moment before lowering her voice: “What about the one in the back? Her family has been distinguished for generations.”
Peng Jinxiu knew her sister meant Teng Yu’yi. She blinked twice and said: “I was just about to discuss this with Sister. Rather than guarding against Li San Niang, you should pay more attention to Teng Yu’yi. Not to mention her father Teng Shao, her grandfather Teng Yuanhao was a pillar of state whose portrait hangs in the Lingyan Pavilion. The military achievements of the Teng father and son remain unmatched to this day. In terms of court prestige, the Teng family has never been inferior to the Peng family. If the Empress and Princess Cheng are looking for daughters-in-law, it wouldn’t be surprising if they fancy Teng Yu’yi. Sister, remember how at the Ledao Manor when naming the academy, the Empress held Teng Yu’yi’s hand and spoke with her for so long…”
Peng Huayue slowly nodded: “Speaking of which, I find Teng Yu’yi rather puzzling. During that perfect opportunity to shine, she conveniently developed hives, and did it so naturally… Jinxiu, what do you think—was she truly unfortunate, or did she plan it?”
Peng Jinxiu started: “Oh! If Sister hadn’t mentioned it, I would have forgotten—hives don’t just appear on command. If she planned it, it could only mean she has no desire to marry into the royal family… Look, Sister, Teng Yu’yi spends her days drinking and enjoying herself, hardly seeming like someone who schemes.”
But Peng Huayue continued: “Don’t forget, she’s already broken off her engagement with the Duan family. General Teng can’t possibly seek a marriage alliance inferior to the Marquis of Zhenguo’s house for his daughter. But looking around Chang’an now, besides those in the royal family, which house ranks higher than the Marquis of Zhenguo?”
Peng Jinxiu shrugged: “Teng Yu’yi broke off such a good engagement with Young General Duan without hesitation. With such a temperament, she might not necessarily seek a high-ranking marriage. Don’t forget that Chief Minister Zheng once considered taking in Scholar Lu.”
Peng Huayue paused, then smiled slightly: “You’re right. Just when I think you’re confused, you sometimes see things more clearly than your elder sister.”
Suddenly, they heard voices from across the way—it sounded like Li Huaigu was seeing Juesheng and Qizhi out.
Peng Huayue leaned forward to look outside, her expression darkening again.
Peng Jinxiu, observant of her sister’s changing expressions, grew increasingly puzzled: “Sister, why are you so concerned about Li San Niang? I just said her family background is far beneath ours, and she doesn’t seem like someone who would compete.”
Peng Huayue sighed: “Have you forgotten what Mother told us at Ledao Manor? Delicate girls like San Niang are the most endearing. You and I, as noble ladies, inevitably have some temper but look at Li San Niang—her beauty and learning aside, her temperament is so gentle. Whenever we see her, she speaks so softly. Mother said that young lords like the Crown Prince and Prince Cheng’s heir probably prefer such maidens. When it comes time to choose a wife, true affection matters more than anything—family background and prestige, to such young lords, can all be cast aside…”
Peng Jinxiu was stunned: “Put that way, it does make sense.”
She then waved her hand and stood up: “Oh well, you all can compete as you like—I only want my Prince of the Commandery.”
Walking to the bedside to examine the pile of luxurious, soft fabrics, she happily asked while selecting: “Sister, which piece do you think would make the best sachet for His Highness?”
Peng Huayue glared at her sister in annoyance and, not bothering to respond, returned to her book.
***
When Juesheng and Qizhi learned that Li Huaigu lived next to Teng Yu’yi, they specially brought those two high-quality purple brushes from the last time they came to visit Teng Yu’yi.
Just as they reached Li Huaigu’s quarters, they were unexpectedly stopped by a Peng family servant, who smilingly asked them for some talismans and invited them to sit inside.
In a hurry to return the brushes to Li Huaigu, they quickly explained they hadn’t brought any cinnabar and could only draw talismans tomorrow. The servant reluctantly let them go.
Li Huaigu seemed surprised by Juesheng and Qizhi’s visit. Seeing them approach, she could only say: “I didn’t know the young Daoists would come. I was planning to walk around the temple. Please come in. The servants are still packing luggage, so the room is a bit messy.”
She invited them in politely, though without the enthusiasm shown by the Peng family.
Juesheng and Qizhi secretly sighed in relief. They most feared when maids, servants, and young ladies were overly friendly, first plying them with food and gifts, but inevitably leading to roundabout questions about their senior brother’s preferences. When they were younger, they had naively answered many such questions, only gradually understanding as they grew older.
Fortunately, Lady Li San Niang was refined and proper.
The maids in the room were indeed busy organizing boxes. Juesheng and Qizhi, not wanting to cause trouble, quickly took out the purple brushes: “Lady Li, we cannot accept these. If you wish to show gratitude for our temple’s talismans, please just come to offer incense another day.”
Li Huaigu accepted the brushes readily: “That day at the West Market, hearing of such a tragic incident, I was also frightened and rushed to ask for talismans. At the time, I only thought of showing gratitude to the young Daoists and didn’t consider it thoroughly. This is better—I’ll come to your esteemed temple to offer incense another day. I feel terrible troubling you two to come personally so late. You must be hungry—why don’t you have some refreshments before leaving?”
She pushed the tea and snacks on the table toward them, but Juesheng and Qizhi waved their hands: “No need, no need.”
Li Huaigu smiled: “Do you find my humble refreshments too crude? I hadn’t expected visitors, so I’ve indeed been a poor host to you young Daoists.”
At this, Juesheng and Qizhi felt they couldn’t leave, so they each took a piece of pastry from the crystal cups and pretended to take a bite. Unexpectedly, these pastries were even better than those at Lady Teng’s.
After one bite, they resisted their cravings and took no more. At this moment, two maids from the room carried a pile of things toward the inner chamber, accidentally dropping a round sachet that rolled to Juesheng’s feet.
Juesheng bent to pick up the sachet and noticed it was quite old, with the carved patterns showing cracks—it must have been used for at least ten years.
The observant Qizhi caught a glimpse and saw two characters faintly carved on it. The top character was “A,” and the bottom one was…
Before he could look closely, the maid repeatedly apologized and came to take back the sachet. Seeing the room in such disarray, they felt they shouldn’t stay longer and rose together saying: “We shall take our leave.”
Li Huaigu was about to have a maid see them out when a young novice monk came with a message: “The Abbot has sent word that Naizhong might come to see Patron Teng tonight. To avoid disturbing the other three patrons, please move to the West Wing immediately. There are currently no male guests in the West Wing’s quarters, so the patrons need not worry about relocating.”
Upon hearing this news, a commotion erupted in the rooms of the Peng sisters and Duan Qingying, with servants frantically packing belongings, afraid to stay in the East Wing a moment longer.
Juesheng and Qizhi were puzzled—they hadn’t heard the Abbot make such arrangements before.
After delivering this message, the novice monk turned to Juesheng and Qizhi: “Young Daoists, Master Mingtong has urgent matters to discuss with you, please go to the Sutra Repository quickly.”
Juesheng and Qizhi looked worried—they had delayed so long without visiting Lady Teng, but now what could they do? It seemed they had to return to the Sutra Repository first.
They turned to bow farewell to Li Huaigu but saw Third Lady Li staring fixedly toward the courtyard, her eyes and expression both distant. She was unhappy, as even her usual gentle smile had vanished.
As they left, they wondered if Lady Li San Niang was upset about having to move so suddenly.
***
After seeing her father off, Teng Yu’yi waited in the courtyard but still saw no sign of Juesheng and Qizhi.
Du Tinglan, hearing the commotion from the neighboring Xuan Pu Pavilion, asked curiously: “What’s happening?”
Chun Rong returned from investigating: “They say the three ladies must move to the West Wing immediately.”
Teng Yu’yi and Du Tinglan were startled: “Isn’t the West Wing only for male guests?”
Chun Rong was equally puzzled: “They say it’s the Abbot’s sudden decision.”
Teng Yu’yi asked: “What about the two young Daoists?”
“Seems they’ve left again.”
Teng Yu’yi was extremely surprised: “How strange.”
Juesheng and Qizhi would never leave without saying goodbye. Their sudden departure must have been due to some urgent matter. After thinking for a moment, she decided to continue waiting.
The sisters continued drinking for a while. Du Tinglan began feeling cold—since practicing martial arts, Teng Yu’yi had long forgotten what “cold” meant, but Du Tinglan was different. As she sat, she became increasingly uncomfortable.
Teng Yu’yi quickly said to Du Tinglan: “Sister, you should return to your room first. The young Daoists mentioned copying sutras, who knows when they’ll finish? I’ll wait in the courtyard a bit longer.”
Du Tinglan had Bi Luo fetch her a cloak and forced herself to sit for a while longer, but gradually even the stone bench felt cold. She had to stand up and say: “Sister should go back to wash up. Don’t wait too long—sit for just a moment more then return to sleep.”
Teng Yu’yi agreed. After drinking alone for a while, she grew bored and raised her cup high, pretending to invite the bright moon above to drink with her. As she was enjoying herself, she suddenly remembered her father’s words. Her expression gradually darkened, and she sat propping her chin, thinking about her mother for a while. Feeling deeply sad, she took advantage of her tipsiness to draw out the Xiaoye sword: “Little old man, I have something to ask you.”
After these words, the Xiaoye sword remained still, but there came a faint sound from the wall. Teng Yu’yi’s soul nearly left her body in fright, and she was about to call for Duan Fu when she recognized who it was, and her voice caught in her throat.
The person wore a jade crown and a round-collared robe with precious elephant patterns in jade color, standing in a pool of brilliant moonlight, truly cutting a handsome and elegant figure.
She had seen these clothes just this evening, and she knew this person well.
“Lin Chengyou?” Teng Yu’yi was stunned.
Lin Chengyou examined Teng Yu’yi and noticed the glint of tears in her eyes. Puzzled, he raised his eyebrows and said: “Juesheng and Qizhi said you had something urgent to tell me in person?”