In the desolate wilderness, at the foot of a remote mountain, a broken cart and a sickly horse stood beside a dilapidated mountain god temple. Cai Zhao lit her seventeenth campfire of this journey. Once the flames stabilized, she set aside the dry twigs and flint, carefully adding firewood piece by piece before returning to her bedroll near the stone pillar.
Mu Qing Yan, deep in slumber, furrowed his brow as cold sweat beaded on his forehead. Sensing the girl’s approach, he unconsciously grasped her sleeve, finding some comfort. This was a vast improvement from when they first escaped; back then, Mu Qing Yan seemed trapped in a nightmare.
Ten days had passed since their flight from Taichu Observatory. As they rode on the back of the golden-winged roc, facing fierce headwinds, both would normally have been unfazed. However, Mu Qing Yan was extremely weak, his limbs powerless, forcing Cai Zhao to bind him to her side with silver chains.
Initially planning to fly non-stop to the horizon, they discovered after half a day that the rocs were flying increasingly low. Cai Zhao then noticed several arrows lodged in the soft underbellies and armpits of both golden rocs. Though not deeply embedded, the wounds were bleeding continuously.
It was said that the archers of Guangtian Gate were unparalleled in their strength and speed. Cai Zhao now truly appreciated their reputation.
Mu Qing Yan, leaning against her, vaguely sensed they had landed. Hearing the girl mention the rocs’ injuries, he muttered drowsily, “They’ll find a place to heal themselves. Let’s hide in Lingjian Mountain.”
Lingjian Mountain stood at the edge of a wasteland, at the end of an eastern branch of the Suchuan River. Cai Zhao and Mu Qing Yan had once glimpsed it from afar during their worldwide search for the Shi family’s twin heroes.
After releasing the two golden-winged rocs to fly away on their own, Cai Zhao realized they were empty-handed. With no supplies, she hid Mu Qing Yan in the wilderness, covering him with dead branches and leaves before using her lightness skill to procure necessary items from a nearby town.
“Procure” was a euphemism, as Cai Zhao was penniless. Prepared for intense battle, she had traveled light, her sleeves and waist pouches filled with Thunder Storm Soul Needles, hidden weapons, and essential wound medicine, leaving no room for money.
Mu Qing Yan usually carried gold leaves, but Song Yuzhi’s well-intentioned meddling that morning, bathing and changing Mu Qing Yan’s clothes, had left them without even that resource.
According to conventional stories, Cai Zhao should have found a wealthy, despicable household to “rob the rich and help the poor.” However, realizing she would be the first beneficiary of such theft, Cai Zhao felt it would be hypocritical. Moreover, the urgency of their situation left no time to investigate suitable targets.
As she hesitated, her hand brushed her neck, sparking an idea. While she couldn’t sell the small golden whistle used to summon the rocs, the gold chain it hung on was fair game. She quickly removed the long chain and hurried to the town’s pawnshop.
The pawnbroker, noting Cai Zhao’s youthful appearance but martial attire splattered with blood and lingering deadly aura—and her casual straightening of their recently bent copper lampstand as easily as a child molding clay—dared not haggle. Seeing the chain’s exquisite craftsmanship, he even offered an extra ten silver taels.
With her newly acquired silver, Cai Zhao tirelessly purchased a cart, horse, cloth, bedding, and even pots and pans, finally securing food and medicine. She returned to Mu Qing Yan as dusk approached. Removing the covering of dead branches and leaves, she found him barely conscious, waiting for her return. His flushed cheeks contrasted sharply with his pallid complexion, a heart-wrenching sight.
Seeing her return, he seemed to relax slightly, the gloom in his brow dissipating, revealing an innocent beauty.
“Aren’t you afraid such a large procurement will reveal our trail?” he asked with a weak, elegant smile.
Cai Zhao replied, “The Northern Chen Six Sects’ influence pervades much of the martial world, not to mention countless disciples and old acquaintances. We’d inevitably be discovered entering any town. We’ll travel through the wilderness from now on. That small town has many routes; they won’t guess which direction we’ve taken.”
Mu Qing Yan fell silent for a moment before saying, “I’ve burdened you.”
Cai Zhao, her heart aching, responded softly, “Between us, let’s not speak of who burdens whom.”
After helping Mu Qing Yan into the cart, she drove to a secluded mountain stream and immediately began brewing medicine.
Cai Ping Shu, long bedridden due to his lost martial arts and damaged meridians, was more frail than ordinary people. Suffering frequent headaches, fevers, coughs, and chills, Cai Zhao had become well-versed in treating such ailments from a young age. She skillfully prepared and boiled medicinal concoctions but struggled with fire-making, her face covered in soot before finally controlling the flames.
“Quickly drink this,” she said, offering the medicine bowl. “You’ve been feverish for so many days; we don’t want your mind added once your body heals.”
Mu Qing Yan drained the bowl in one gulp, and then set it aside. “Remove your clothes; let me tend to your shoulder wound.”
Cai Zhao stared at him.
Mu Qing Yan added, “I’ve seen how you toss and turn in your sleep.” Implying that seeing her shoulder was insignificant in comparison.
Cai Zhao’s shoulders slumped. The split shoulder bone truly pained her, and knowing the many challenges ahead, a quicker recovery would mean fewer mishaps. She slowly loosened her garment, revealing a snow-white shoulder, and sat with her back to Mu Qing Yan.
Mu Qing Yan seemed particularly adept at treating such external injuries. He first realigned Cai Zhao’s bones, then applied for Luoying Valley’s wound medicine, and finally fashioned two narrow splints, binding them securely to her shoulder with cloth strips.
“Father loved raising exotic birds and beasts,” he explained softly, his voice gentle. “Once they grew and were well-fed, he’d release them. If they were injured outside, they’d limp back to Busi Study, and I grew accustomed to tending their wounds from a young age.” His lips curved slightly as he tied a simple, effective knot in the bandage. Suddenly, his voice lowered.
“Zhao Zhao,” he said, gazing at the girl’s slender, fair neck. “From now on, let’s rely on each other. I’ll seal off the Youming Huang Path and restrain my disciples as much as possible to avoid conflicts with the Northern Chen Six Sects. We can live peacefully in the Hanhai Mountain Range, never leaving. How does that sound?”
The girl didn’t turn or speak, but after a long while, she nodded slightly.
Mu Qing Yan’s heart surged with joy. He felt the world was beautiful, the sky clear across all four seas. Even in this cold, damp mountain stream, he found infinite contentment. As the medicine took effect, he soon fell into a deep sleep.
Cai Zhao sprang into action. She gently pushed up Mu Qing Yan’s sleeves and trouser legs, then opened his garment, revealing numerous deep, bone-deep gashes and his scarred chest and back. The black and red wounds contrasted starkly against his fair skin, a horrifying sight.
She applied all the wound medicine she carried, then carefully wrapped clean cloth around the injuries. As she tended to the wounds, she forcefully wiped away her tears. For martial artists of their caliber, once their bodies healed, internal injuries could mend on their own.
After finishing, she extinguished the fire and buried all traces of their stay in the mud. Unable to linger in one place, she let Mu Qing Yan sleep in the cart as they traveled by night and rested in hiding during the day.
Mu Qing Yan’s injuries were severe, compounded by days of high fever. Previously sustained by sheer willpower, now that he had let his guard down, the accumulated injuries and illness struck back fiercely. The next day, he burned with delirium, his forehead drenched in cold sweat, lips cracked, yet teeth clenched tightly. Like a stubborn child, he didn’t make a sound, only gripping the girl’s sleeve firmly.
Cai Zhao prepared a soft rice and dried meat porridge, but couldn’t feed him a single mouthful.
Despite her slender frame and Mu Qing Yan’s broad shoulders and height, she managed to awkwardly hold him, using a damp cloth to transfer water to his mouth while repeatedly coaxing him.
Though skilled at brewing medicine and cooking porridge, she was inexperienced in comforting others. This was because Cai Ping Shu, the world’s most optimistic person, would joke and comfort his family even when gravely ill.
Seeing Mu Qing Yan in his delirious state, she resorted to telling stories from her childhood and describing her beloved hometown, Luoying Valley.
“There was a couple’s shop at the entrance of the alley that sold porridge,” she began. “Their eight-treasure porridge, millet porridge, shrimp porridge, and chicken and chestnut porridge were all soft, glutinous, and fragrant. When I was four, I heard the kitchen aunty say that porridge was best for my aunt who was ill. So I secretly took a jar to buy porridge for her. The kind shopkeeper filled a jar for me even though I couldn’t pay. Unfortunately, I tripped near home, breaking the jar and scraping my knee. I sat on the ground, surrounded by spilled porridge, crying loudly in dismay.”
“My aunt heard my cries and came to find me. I was so upset – the porridge jar had been so heavy, the small alley seemed endless, and I had used all my strength. My arms ached, my legs were tired, and just as I was about to reach home, I spilled everything… The more I thought about it, the more upset I became, and I couldn’t stop crying. My aunt smiled as she took me home, applying medicine to my scrapes while telling me I was the most obedient and filial child in the world. She kept kissing my face and hands until I finally stopped crying.”
“Next door was a braised meat shop. Their broth, passed down for three generations, had been continuously enriched for decades. They say even a wooden stick would taste flavorful if cooked in it. Every morning when they lit the stove, the rich aroma of meat would waft for miles. It took great willpower to pass by without buying.”
“The fragrance shop on the west side of town offered a different kind of scent. They’d collect the freshest flowers each season, steaming, drying, grinding, and blending them. Aunt didn’t care for makeup, but to mask the bitter medicine smell in our house, I’d often buy scented cakes to perfume the rooms. Jasmine in spring, lotus in summer, chrysanthemum in autumn, and plum in winter – Luoying Valley’s four seasons were always fragrantly present.”
“There used to be a jewelry shop in town. The owner was a handsome scholar, elegant and skilled. His hairpins, phoenix combs, and pearl flowers were breathtakingly beautiful. Many girls secretly admired him. However, his wife was scarred, sickly, quick-tempered, and childless. The town’s matrons pitied the scholar.”
“Years later, his wife passed away. Matchmakers rushed in, but the scholar closed shop after cremating his wife and left Luoying Valley with her ashes. Before departing, he thanked my parents for allowing them to live peacefully in the valley, saying his wife died content.”
“Father asked where he was going. The scholar said he’d take his wife to the seaside. She had always loved the sea but couldn’t tolerate the damp air. Now it didn’t matter. Mother urged him to move on, saying he had a long life ahead. The scholar replied that with his wife gone, his heart had died too; there was no future.”
“Having read too many tragic romance novels, I thought the scholar was going to join his wife in death. I cried my eyes out, lamenting the fleeting nature of deep love. My parents and aunt nearly doubled over laughing – the scholar didn’t die. After scattering his wife’s ashes at sea, he became a monk at Changchun Temple, spending his days repairing Buddha statues and temple buildings, and living peacefully. Ah I’d wasted so many tears…”
In Cai Zhao’s memory, Luoying Valley was a place of eternal spring, awash with flowers and filled with the vibrancy of everyday life.
During festivals, blooming peach branches would be adorned with colorful ribbons bearing well-wishes. The wind would set these long, intertwining rainbows dancing, as if in a dream. This was her beloved home, her eternal dreamland.
She’d left Luoying Valley less than a year ago, yet now it felt like a lifetime away.
Lulled by the girl’s gentle murmurs, Mu Qing Yan gradually fell into a peaceful sleep. As daylight faded and dusk settled in, he finally awoke, sitting quietly by the fire to sip porridge.
“…I heard everything,” he suddenly said, eyes fixed on the flames. “What you said about Luoying Valley.”
Cai Zhao started, then smiled. “Did you think I was silly as a child?”
“No,” Mu Qing Yan shook his head. “I loved hearing about your childhood and the place you grew up. It’s perfect and beautiful, bringing joy just thinking about it. I can’t say the same for myself.”
Remembering his childhood experiences, Cai Zhao fell silent. She spoke softly, “It’s alright. I’ll share half of my childhood with you. That way, when you think back, you’ll feel joy too.”
Mu Qing Yan looked up, half his face in firelight shadow. His delicate features and moving brows framed eyes that glimmered like distant lights on a quiet lake. He smiled, “Really? Then it’s settled.”
They resumed their journey after nightfall.
By now, Li Wenxun’s carrier pigeons had spread the news far and wide. The martial arts world was in uproar, with righteous sects and lone wanderers alike converging on both banks of the Suchuan River, seeking news of Mu and Cai. Cai Zhao nearly gave herself away while replenishing supplies and medicine in a nearby town.
In every street and alley, teahouse and tavern, martial artists gossiped:
“Luoying Valley’s feng shui must be cursed to produce another witch!”
“It’s the fault of Cai Pingchun and his wife for sending their daughter to train so late. Poor Sect Leader Qi and Master Zhou were ambushed by the girl they watched grow up. Their injuries are severe; who knows how they’re faring now.”
“I heard the masters from Changchun Temple sent holy medicine to Taichu Observatory. They should be fine, right?”
“What do you know? External wounds heal easily, but internal injuries are tough. Sect Leader Qi and Master Zhou are kind-hearted. Cai Zhao is both a former disciple and the niece of an old friend. How heartbreaking to see her go astray.”
“Hmph! That wench Cai Zhao is a traitor to her masters and ancestors. If I see her, I’ll avenge the Northern Chen disciples!”
“Give it up. Cai Zhao may be of poor character, but she wounded Sect Leader Qi, Master Zhou, and Sect Leader Yang, and even ambushed her father and Sect Leader Song. With skills like that, would we stand a chance against her?”
“Brother Wang speaks true. Even if the sect leaders were ambushed or held back, they must have used at least half their power. For Cai Zhao to rescue the Demonic Sect leader in such circumstances, her abilities must be formidable!”
“Is she really that strong? I heard Cai Zhao is only in her teens.”
“Cai Ping Shu was undefeated at that age too.”
“Indeed, a girl raised by Cai Ping Shu is no ordinary foe.”
“I don’t care what you think. Our Sea Snake Gang owes a great debt to the Siqui Gate. Now that Sect Leader Yang has suffered such humiliation, if I encounter her, I’ll teach that Cai girl a lesson even if it costs me my life!”
“I heard the Demonic Sect leader was gravely injured, and Cai Zhao took some hits too. We might stand a chance if we encounter them.”
“Let’s focus on finding them first. Didn’t you hear Sect Leaders Yang and Song are leading the pursuit? Grandmaster Li Wenxun and Lady Zhou Zhixian are leading their disciples in the search too. We should help spread any news we hear.”
“Hey, what do you think they’ll do with that witch Cai Zhao when they catch her?”
“For betraying her masters and ancestors? She’ll be lucky to escape with her life.”
“Will the Valley Master Cai allow it?”
“His daughter betrayed her sect and injured her seniors. What can he say?”
…
Cai Zhao listened from a street corner before silently slipping away.
For the next few days, she continued resting by day and traveling by night, heading straight for Lingjian Mountain with Mu Qing Yan. Every two days, she’d visit a small town to buy necessities. On the twelfth or thirteenth day, they finally reached the foot of Lingjian Mountain. Before ascending, Cai Zhao made her usual supply run to a nearby town.
Out of caution, she had only purchased small amounts of medicine and food each time. She bought common wound medicine, fever reducers, and tonics. The rare ingredients truly useful for Mu Qing Yan’s internal healing, like Snow Ginseng, weren’t available in these towns anyway, so she didn’t even ask about them to avoid drawing attention.
After a brief rest at the mountain god temple, they began their ascent.
Lingjian Mountain was treacherous and rarely visited. Halfway up, they discovered a hidden cave concealed by vines. Inside, though damp, the air flowed freely, indicating other openings. They decided to rest there.
Mu Qing Yan lit a fire inside the cave and leaned against the wall to rest.
Cai Zhao placed lit bundles of grass and wood around the cave to gradually dry it out. The firelight illuminated her pale face, revealing her exhaustion, though her large eyes remained clear.
“This place is well hidden,” she suddenly said. “You should be safe alone here, able to handle any ordinary beasts. I’ll leave food and medicine. Stay here and recover slowly.”
Mu Qing Yan sat up slightly, his long lashes lowered. “Are you going back to check on your parents and master? It’s only natural to want to ensure they’re safe and well. But be careful – if they discover you, you won’t be able to return. Don’t worry about me; they won’t find this place anytime soon.”
“They probably won’t come after you anymore,” the girl said, placing the last bundle of firewood in a corner. “Three days ago, when I went to town for supplies, I noticed half the searchers were gone. Yesterday, in another town, I saw only a few Taichu Observatory pursuers and almost no wandering martial artists.”
“Oh, is that so?” Mu Qing Yan’s eyes flickered as he smiled. “Why did they stop searching? Did they give up, thinking it was like finding a needle in a haystack? Or did they receive false information and pursue in the wrong direction?”
Cai Zhao replied, “They didn’t give up due to the difficulty, nor did they go in another direction. They’ve simply stopped searching.” She looked up. “After so many days, it’s time for them to stop – just as you predicted.”
Mu Qing Yan’s smile slowly faded. “As I predicted? What do you mean, Zhao Zhao? How would I know they’d stop searching?”
Cai Zhao’s gaze was calm. “You might not have known exactly when they’d stop, but you knew they would eventually.”
Mu Qing Yan’s lips curved slightly, but his eyes held no mirth. “I don’t understand what you’re saying, Zhao Zhao.”
Cai Zhao looked at him steadily, and Mu Qing Yan returned her gaze unflinchingly.
“You don’t understand? Then let me start from the beginning,” Cai Zhao said, a hint of mockery in her eyes. “Remember, not long after we took Qinglong Altar, Xing’er secretly asked me something…”
[A nervous little maid was combing the hair of a young girl before a mirror. “Miss Zhao Zhao, I heard the Sect Leader has already subdued Altar Master Shangguan and his followers…”
“Yes, what about it?” Cai Zhao didn’t understand her point.
The little maid anxiously fiddled with the comb. “But… but why didn’t the Young Lord make them take the ‘Seven Insect Seven Flower Soul-Chasing Pill’?”
Cai Zhao was startled. “You Guanyue took it?”
“Yes, yes! Not just my young master, but Helmsman Wang, Helmsman Tang, and even Brother Liu Jiangfeng all took it. But Altar Master Shangguan and those newly subdued by the Young Lord didn’t. Does the Young Lord not fully trust my young master and the others?”]
“The Seven Insect Seven Flower Pill is a secret, deadly poison passed down through generations of your Mu family,” Cai Zhao continued. “Made from seven flowers and seven insects, it’s unpredictable and mysterious. Only the poison maker knows the antidote.”
A cold smirk played on Mu Qingyan’s lips. “Game Observer Moon is using Xing’er to test me. How impatient! He didn’t expect you to keep Xing’er’s secret.”
Cai Zhao gazed at the moss on one side, her expression wistful. “I’ve never been able to fathom the minds of people like you with your convoluted schemes. Only when I’m at my wit’s end do I realize how foolish I’ve been.”
Mu Qingyan rested his hand on his bent knee, his expression cold and detached.
Cai Zhao turned back to him. “At the time, I was utterly perplexed. Logically, you’ve observed Game Observer Moon, Liu Jiangfeng, and others for years, confirming their loyalty to the Mu family and Elder Chou. Yet you gave them the Seven Insects Seven Flowers poison while placing no restrictions on newcomers like Shangguan Haonan.”
Mu Qingyan laughed coldly. “Perhaps someone as peculiar as me just acts strangely.”
Cai Zhao shook her head. “You once said that while Mu sect leaders have traditionally used the Seven Insects Seven Flowers pills to control their followers, Nie Hengcheng, despite usurping power, never did so, demonstrating his magnanimity. Given your desire to differentiate yourself from Nie Hengcheng, I thought you’d be reluctant to use such methods unless necessary.”
She continued, her gaze falling on Mu Qingyan’s face, “I’ve pondered this for a long time, and now I understand. You don’t distrust Game Observer Moon and the others. On the contrary, among your many subordinates, you trust these loyal followers the most.”
“If that’s the case, why would I force them to take poison?” Mu Qingyan asked coldly.
“Because your paranoia is severe, and you know the future tasks you’ll assign them are crucial. You used the Seven Insects Seven Flowers pills as a precaution.”
“What secret mission?”
“To lure the snake out of its hole and catch everything in one net.”
Mu Qingyan looked at the girl, his gaze deep and inscrutable.
Cai Zhao stared into his eyes, enunciating each word carefully. “Yu Huiyin, Lu Fengchun – each of them has intricate ties to the Nie family. Yet you allow them to manage sect affairs on your behalf? And what about Li Ruxin and her son? Even if you didn’t want to eliminate them, they should have been imprisoned somewhere secret. Instead, you openly keep them in the Hanhai mountain range, as if you want those secretly loyal to the Nie family to know.”
She paused, then continued, “Sect Leader Mu, you’ve set a trap. Or rather, you’re thinking three steps ahead. You’ve calculated everything, even before launching your attack on Nie Zhe.”
Water droplets fell somewhere in the mountain ravine, each one distinct as it hit the damp rocks.
“Zhao Zhao makes me sound like a monster,” Mu Qingyan said, sitting up straight and stoking the fire before him. His long, steady fingers were white and clean as they gripped the branch. “Well, Sect Leader Qi often calls me a shape-shifting demon. It seems Zhao Zhao has taken it to heart. But if I were truly so formidable, how could I have nearly lost all my martial arts skills?”
“Because even the best-laid plans can go awry. Some things didn’t unfold as you expected.”
Mu Qingyan snorted coldly, offering no comment.
Cai Zhao continued, “Defeating Nie Zhe was easy. The real challenge lies in erasing the influence the Nie uncles have built over forty or fifty years. You anticipated this. But if people genuinely submit to you, you can’t just slaughter them. The best outcome would be for Nie’s hidden supporters and the fence-sitters to reveal themselves.”
She went on, “So you and Game Observer Moon devised a plan. Under the pretext of visiting the Shi twins, you staged an ‘accidental disappearance.’ Then Game Observer Moon and the others would challenge the Six Sects of North Chen, creating the illusion that you had been killed. Seeing this, Lu Fengchun and the others would seize the opportunity to rebel.”
“However, Lu Fengchun has been lying low for half his life and wouldn’t act without absolute certainty. Yu Huiyin truly has no desire for power and only wants to protect Li Ruxin and her son. Without some real action, they wouldn’t make a move. But if Game Observer Moon and the others caused too much chaos, with both sides fighting, the outcome would be unpredictable.”
The young girl’s gaze was as deep as the stars, illuminating the dark recesses of human hearts.
“So, what method could make it appear that you’re at odds with the Six Sects of North Chen, without actually provoking them to action?”
Cai Zhao struggled to voice her suspicion. “Did you… target the families of the Six Sects of North Chen?”
Mu Qingyan raised his long lashes, looking at her silently, his lack of response as good as an admission.
[The scene shifts to the exit of the Mu family’s ancestral burial ground. Hu Fengge, Yu Huiyin, Lu Fengchun, and various other leaders bow respectfully. As Mu Qingyan is about to leave on his golden eagle, Game Observer Moon hurriedly asks, “Sect Leader, do you have any instructions?”
Mu Qingyan turns back, his eyes full of killing intent, his pupils dark. “Do what needs to be done. Do I need to teach you?”
Game Observer Moon trembles, suddenly understanding. He quickly bows his head and agrees.]
Cai Zhao forced herself to remain calm. “What have you done to the Zhou family?”
“…I’ve merely invited a few ladies to be our guests,” Mu Qingyan finally replied.
[A procession of luxurious carriages leisurely travels through the outskirts, surrounded by many laughing servants in fine clothes. In the largest and most ornate carriage, three middle-aged and elderly women are talking.
Old Lady Min forcefully pokes her daughter-in-law’s forehead. “You fool! How could you let Yuqi break off the engagement with the Cai family? Are you trying to be the death of me?”
Lady Min looks aggrieved. “Aunt, didn’t you also refuse to have Cai Pingshu as a daughter-in-law back then? You’ve met that little Cai Zhao girl. She’s stubborn and sharp-tongued, much harder to deal with than Cai Pingshu. I get angry just looking at her! Xinrou is so much better – obedient and respectful. She listens to everything I say, not to mention how father and brother kept begging me.”
Old Lady Min is furious. “To support the Min family, we must first ensure your son can inherit the position of manor lord! Back then, my son’s skills were unparalleled, making him the unanimous choice to inherit Peiqiong Mountain Manor. What about your son? You’ve spoiled him since he was little, making a fuss over the slightest scratch. How can one practice martial arts without enduring hardship? No matter how good Xinrou is, does she have Cai Zhao’s abilities to help Yuqi ascend to power?”
Lady Min doesn’t dare to talk back.
Another elderly lady in the carriage gently tries to mediate. “Sister-in-law, let it go. What’s done is done. Let’s try to look on the bright side.”
Old Lady Min turns to scold her. “The most promising young disciples in the manor now are the brothers Yuqian and Yukun. You raised them after they were orphaned at a young age. Are you hoping to use them to overshadow me in the future?”
“No, no, I wouldn’t dare!” This elderly lady is quite meek. “After my husband passed away, it was thanks to your care that my daughter and I managed. Even if the Yu brothers have a bright future, I’ll teach them to respect you!”
Old Lady Min calms down slightly. “That’s more like it.”
Suddenly, she frowns. “Why has it gone quiet outside? And why is the carriage speeding up? Something’s not right. Guards-“
Before she can finish, the carriage curtain is yanked away. The luxurious carriage is speeding along a mountain path, alone. The Peiqiong Mountain Manor people have vanished, replaced by unfamiliar men in tight-fitting clothes on horseback on both sides.
Tang Qing, personally driving the carriage, pokes his smiling face inside. “Ladies, my sect extends an invitation!”]
Cai Zhao feels a lump in her throat. “What about the Siqimen? You must have targeted Yang He’ying’s concubine and son!”
“Correct.”
[In the city’s largest Taoist temple, amid billowing incense smoke, Madam Sha struts proudly, surrounded by attendants. She’s leading her beloved son Yang Tianci to offer sacrifices in the main hall when suddenly, multiple loud bangs ring out. All the doors and windows of the great hall slam shut.
Simultaneously, countless plumes of smoke rise from the cracks between the floor tiles. The Siqimen guards and servants inhale it and immediately faint.
As the beautiful woman’s vision blurs, she watches in terror as Wang Tianfeng and his men emerge from a hidden tunnel beneath the broken tiles. He grins, “Madam Yang, Young Master Yang, shall we go somewhere else to have some fun?”]
“What about Guangtianmen? Qinglian Madam is already dead, and the entire Flower Street is full of Song Shijun’s lovers. You’re not going to kidnap courtesans, are you?” Cai Zhao asks mockingly.
Mu Qingyan replies, “Not the courtesans, but Song Shijun’s two sons, Song Xiuzhi and Song Maozhi.”
Cai Zhao scoffs, “Those two have strong martial arts skills. They won’t be easy to capture.”
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
[“Stop wasting my time,” Song Maozhi says impatiently, standing in a hunting lodge at the edge of the forest. “I haven’t been out hunting for two months. Old Han finally found a snow-white leopard in the forest. I want to skin it and make a robe for my father. Don’t stand in my way with your chatter.”
Two attendants are preparing his saddle and bow and arrows, while a personal servant adjusts Song Maozhi’s leather armor. A young hunter crouches in the corner, tying his leg wraps.
Song Xiuzhi wrings his hands nervously. “But father told us to watch over the house and not cause trouble.”
Song Maozhi turns to berate him. “It must be those old fogies badmouthing me again! Hmph, they rely on their seniority and long service to dictate everything – don’t do this, don’t do that, always meddling. Just wait till I take over. The first thing I’ll do is drive out all those old geezers!”
“Maozhi,” Song Xiuzhi sighed, “How can we, as members of the Song family, be at odds? They’re our uncles and elders.”
“Don’t lecture me,” Song Maozhi retorted. “When the time comes, I’ll ask Yuzhi for help. By then, he might be leading the Qingque Sect. With us brothers united, who’d dare look down on me?” He turned to the young hunter, “Hey, why isn’t Old Han back yet?”
The timid young hunter, still struggling with his leg wraps, stuttered, “Un-uncle said he didn’t want to sp-spoil your fun, so he went ahead to… to drive out the white leopard.”
Song Maozhi nodded approvingly but then complained, “Old Han is so clever, why are you so inarticulate?”
“If this big nephew wasn’t so clumsy, my elder brother would’ve brought him to you for a reward long ago!” A laughing voice announced the arrival of an old hunter with two others.
The three hunters bowed to the Song brothers. The old one stayed put while the other two moved behind the brothers to help the young hunter with his leg wraps.
Song Maozhi chuckled, “Han Er, you’ve become quite the smooth talker. Are you staying this time?”
Han Er replied, “Nowhere’s better than our Guangtianmen. I’m not leaving this time. I hope the young master will grant this old servant a living and not find me less useful than my elder brother!”
Song Maozhi laughed heartily, “Your Han family has served Guangtianmen for generations. Of course! Serve me well, and you’ll have gold, silver, and beauties aplenty!”
As they bantered, Song Xiuzhi caught a strange, potent scent. Before he could react, several of his major acupoints were struck. His body went numb, and he collapsed.
Through barely open eyes, Song Xiuzhi watched the shorter hunter draw a dagger and, with ghost-like speed, slit the throats of the three attendants. Simultaneously, the tall, burly hunter lunged at Song Maozhi with powerful fists.
Despite his skills, Song Maozhi was caught off guard and weaponless. Two punches to his chest sent him staggering back, right into the nimble shorter hunter, who jabbed two Chaos Soul Needles into his back. Song Maozhi, too, crumpled to the ground.
The shorter hunter laughed, “Divine Fist Guardian Liu Jiangfeng, your reputation holds! They say Song Maozhi is the best among the Six Sects of North Chen, yet he couldn’t withstand two of your punches!”
Hearing the commotion, guards outside knocked, inquiring about the situation.
Song Xiuzhi felt a glimmer of hope, thinking their hundred-strong force could surely overpower these few assailants.
To his shock, the young stuttering hunter approached the door and called out in Song Maozhi’s voice, “Nothing’s wrong! I’m in a good mood today. Stop hovering like old hens and back off. I’ll come out when I’m ready!”
After a pause, the impostor spoke again, this time mimicking Song Xiuzhi’s polite tone, “Maozhi, they’re just doing their duty. If anything happened to you, how would we explain it?”
Finally, ‘Song Maozhi’ grumbled irritably, “You’re all so annoying. Just wait until I…”
The stuttering hunter was a master of voice mimicry, perfectly imitating both brothers.
The shorter hunter crouched before Song Xiuzhi, smiling, “Seen enough? Time for you to sleep.”
Another Chaos Soul Needle and Song Xiuzhi lost consciousness.
Han Er approached eagerly, “Altar Master You, about that…”
You Guanyue turned, smiling, “Don’t worry. I keep my promises. I’ll have your gold ready when we return. Go far away and enjoy your life.”
Han Er bowed repeatedly in gratitude.
Roof tiles were removed, and a rope ladder was lowered. The hunting lodge, built against a mountain, was overshadowed by an enormous old pine tree. Its dense canopy concealed the roof, while a secret passage had been carved into the mountain wall behind.
You Guanyue and Liu Jiangfeng each carried one of the Song brothers, silently climbing out through the roof. Hidden by the thick foliage, they escaped through the mountain passage.
“Impressive,” Cai Zhao commented coolly. “Did you capture anyone else?”
Mu Qingyan replied, “According to plan, we also targeted Yin Sulian and Wang Yuanjing’s families. You Guanyue suggested including the old town head of Luoying Valley and Old Madam Ning to deflect suspicion from your parents.”
Cai Zhao laughed bitterly, “Sect Leader Mu, your strategies are flawless. This humble girl is in awe.”
Mu Qingyan mused, “The Six Sects have grown complacent, neglecting their defenses. In Nie Hengcheng’s time, everyone was always on guard. How could they become so lax, so full of vulnerabilities?”
He added self-mockingly, “Though I’m no better. The first sect leader in two hundred years to be captured alive by the Six Sects of North Chen. I’ve truly disgraced my ancestors.”
Cai Zhao paused before speaking, “…You didn’t expect us to find the Shi brothers, uncover Wang Yuanjing’s misdeeds, or reveal the old grudge between my aunt and Mu Zhengyang. You never anticipated it would come to this.”
She continued, “You Guanyue is off playing his part. What about Shangguan Haonan and the others? Have you ordered them to lie in wait, ready to counter any uprising?”
“You’re not far off,” Mu Qingyan replied, breaking a large piece of wood and tossing it into the fire.
[In a hidden stronghold on the outskirts of the Hanhai mountain range]
“Nephew, has Elder Lu and the others rebelled?” a middle-aged man asked breathlessly as he arrived on horseback, followed by a string of subordinates.
Shangguan Haonan, organizing his troops, replied, “The Sect Leader’s prediction was spot on. That old turtle Lu Fengchun is indeed a traitor. He’s throwing his weight around in the Palace of Extreme Bliss as we speak! Uncle Bali, let’s go teach that old turtle a lesson!”
The middle-aged man shouted his agreement.
However, another middle-aged scholar nearby spoke leisurely, “Where’s You Guanyue? He’s usually glued to the Sect Leader’s side. Why isn’t he here now?”
Shangguan Haonan replied irritably, “The Sect Leader was captured by those bastards from North Chen. You Guanyue are busy trying to rescue him! The Sect Leader ordered me to guard the main hall. We each have our duties. Uncle Qiutong, hurry and gather your forces!”
Wu Qiutong’s followers remained motionless. He advised, “Haonan, I’ve known you since you were a child. Let me be frank – we might not have enough manpower to defeat Lu Fengchun.”
Shangguan Haonan erupted in anger, “Didn’t we agree to serve Sect Leader Mu? What are you saying now, Uncle Qiutong?”
Wu Qiutong countered, “That’s not the point. We were originally loyal to the Kaiyang and Yaoguang factions, and our elders were faithful to Sect Leader Nie. Can Mu Qingyan truly trust us?”
Qin Bali roared, “When the Kaiyang and Yaoguang elders saw that the Mu faction couldn’t be salvaged, they decided to serve Nie Hengcheng. What’s wrong with that? We’ve now sworn allegiance to Sect Leader Mu, so we should remain loyal! What are you suggesting, Wu Qiutong?”
Wu Qiutong sneered, “But our Sect Leader Mu has fallen into the hands of the Six Sects of North Chen. He’s just as hopeless.”
Shangguan Haonan calmed down, “Uncle Wu, just tell us what you want.”
“If Shangguan Haonan and his group follow orders and attack Lu Fengchun, they’re loyal to you,” Cai Zhao concluded. “If not, they’re either harboring rebellious thoughts or they’re fence-sitters, not worth keeping. Is that right?”
“You know me well, Zhao Zhao,” Mu Qingyan said, slowly rising to his feet.
Though he wore only a coarse robe Cai Zhao had bought on the street, his refined features and sharp, clear gaze, combined with his tall, imposing figure, seemed to shrink the cave. An aura of authority emanated from him.
Cai Zhao asked, “How long did you plan to keep this from me?”
Mu Qingyan replied calmly, “Zhao Zhao shouldn’t know about these sordid affairs.” His tone implied he had never intended to tell her at all.
Sunlight filtered through the cracks in the mountain rocks, rippling like waves after several twists and turns.
Cai Zhao nodded, “Alright, you should rest well. I’ll be leaving now.” She turned to go.
“If you’re going to abandon me, why did you bother saving me in the first place?” The man behind her snapped sharply.
Cai Zhao slowly turned back, explaining, “Your trap was set long ago, and the traitors within each sect were already bought. They were just waiting for your ‘disappearance’ so You Guanyue could feign panic and challenge the Six Northern Sects, then move against their families. No one expected you to be in trouble. This turn of events disrupted the entire plan. While Lü Fengchun was indeed provoked into rebellion, You Guanyue and the others were thrown into disarray.”
She continued, “They’re now moving against the sects’ families after hearing of your capture. The back-and-forth took at least half a month. By the time they secure hostages and rush to save you, it’ll be too late. Three days ago, the pursuing forces began to dwindle. I suspect You Guanyue and the others have finally reached Suchuan.”
[A scene unfolds on the straight road: Horses gallop, kicking up clouds of yellow sand.
As the Northern Sects rush towards the eastern bank of Suchuan, they suddenly hear riders approaching from the opposite direction. The newcomers rein in their horses before the crowd, their steeds rearing high. As the dust settles, a handsome young man with a smiling face emerges at the forefront.
Without a word, the smiling youth tosses over a cloth bag. A disciple cautiously opens it with his scabbard from a distance, revealing several items inside – ornamental pendants and long swords. After confirming there are no traps, the disciple presents the bag to the sect leaders.
“This… this…” Yang He’ying is the first to cry out in shock, recognizing his only son’s gold lock and bracelet, along with his favorite concubine’s golden hairpin.
Zhou Zhixian holds two mismatched jade earrings, her face paling. “My mother? And my aunt?”
Song Shijun immediately senses trouble. When he looks into the bag, he feels dizzy – aren’t those two long swords his sons’ weapons?
“Master Song, Master Yang, Heroine Zhou, and Daoist Li, I greet you,” the smiling youth says politely. “It’s a scorching summer day, and you’re all sweating profusely. Why not return home to rest? If you still doubt me, I can send more… fingers, toes, noses, ears – whatever you prefer.”
As Yang He’ying begins to curse, Song Shijun grabs him. “I have three sons. Losing two, I still have one. How many do you have?” He lowers his voice, “You were injured a few years back and can’t have more children, right?”
Yang He’ying remains silent, embarrassed, and angry.
Song Shijun turns to Zhou Zhixian, “Sister Zhixian, what do you think?”
Zhou Zhixian wrings her hands, “My mother… she’s frail. She can’t endure such hardship…” Having lost her father early, she grew up relying on her delicate mother, their bond stronger than life itself.
“Enough, I understand,” Song Shijun waves his hand irritably. “We’re retreating. We’ll discuss this further with those hiding in Taichu Temple. We’re not pursuing anymore!”]
“Indeed. If not for your rescue, even if You Guanyue had arrived, I would have been crippled,” Mu Qingyan said impassively. “There was no choice. The crimes Qi Yunke accused me of were too vile. It concerned my father’s reputation. I truly lost my composure and fell into their trap in my haste…”
Cai Zhao considered for a moment, deciding it was best to be clear. She turned back and approached him. Noticing the bandage on his chest had come loose, she couldn’t help but move closer to tie it.
Mu Qingyan lowered his head, seeing the soft crown of the girl’s hair. His heart surged with emotion.
“Your father was poisoned by Madam Sun, yet you endured for three years before confronting Nie Zhe…” Cai Zhao pulled out the end of the bandage, wrapping it around. “No, you didn’t fall into their trap because your father’s reputation was tarnished.”
She looked up at him. “You did it to find me. You wanted to explain quickly, to tell me your father wasn’t such a despicable person. That’s why you were captured.”
The girl’s gaze was clean and clear, like undisturbed still water. Mu Qingyan wrapped his arms around her, his muscles tensing slightly. He pressed his lips to her slender neck, finally burying his face in the soft curve where her neck met her shoulder.
“I know you can’t bear to part with me, and I can’t bear to part with you. We can’t separate,” he murmured. “We promised to rely on each other for life. You nodded and agreed…”
Though her heart ached terribly, Cai Zhao pushed him away slightly. “I just want to ask you two things. First, does Hu Fengge truly have no ulterior motives toward you? Please be honest.”
Mu Qingyan’s eyes darkened, the warmth slowly fading from his face. “No, she sees Lu Chengnan as a father and brother figure. That’s why she hates Nie Hengcheng to the bone and despises Nie Zhe’s character. She’s loyal to me without any second thoughts.”
The girl’s clear eyes held a question.
“But her feelings for Hui Yin run too deep,” Mu Qingyan’s voice quavered slightly. “I’ve hinted at it several times, but she trusts Hui Yin implicitly. Lü Fengchun is incredibly cunning. I couldn’t let Hu Fengge ruin our grand plan, so I didn’t say a word.”
He waited for Cai Zhao’s reproach, but she simply nodded and asked, “Second, if Shang Guanhaonan fights to the death to quell the rebellion, how many of his loyal troops will die in that lonely battle?”
Mu Qingyan released his embrace, his expression turning proud and cruel. “Only through such life-and-death situations can we separate the loyal from the treacherous. Only then will I feel secure in the Palace of Extreme Bliss.”
“The Nie uncle and nephew have been entrenched in the sect for forty or fifty years, with a complex web of relationships. It’s easy to clean up the sect’s affairs, but hard to cleanse people’s hearts. Who knows when some rebel, still indebted to the Nies, might try to ambush me? I can’t allow any threat near me, but I also can’t massacre followers who have already submitted without reason…”
He gritted his teeth, his cheeks slightly puffing out. “Hu Fengge blinded herself, falling for a hypocrite. If Shang Guanhaonan can’t pass this test, it’s his lack of ability. How is any of this my fault?”
Cai Zhao gazed at him quietly. “So, their deaths were part of your calculations too?”
Mu Qingyan’s gaze darkened. “Great achievements require sacrifices. Zhao, I hope you understand that thrones are built on bones, and power is forged in blood. There’s no peaceful prosperity in this world.”
“My aunt said there could be,” Cai Zhao tilted her head slightly as if remembering. “She was one step away from succeeding.”
“In the end, she didn’t. Our ancestors lie buried, their lofty ambitions turned to dust, while the world remains unchanged,” Mu Qingyan said coldly. “Zhao, you watched your aunt wither day by day. You should understand my actions.”
Cai Zhao felt a deep sadness. “Yes, I’ve often felt my aunt’s efforts were in vain. But even if they were, I don’t think she was wrong. Back in the underground chamber of the Palace of Extreme Bliss, if Hu Fengge hadn’t turned against Han Yisu, we would have died in his trap. Mu Qingyan, it’s not that you couldn’t send Hu Fengge away; you just didn’t want to risk alerting anyone.”
She continued, “But taking a small risk for someone who saved your life is worth it. My aunt also loved a bad person, but that wasn’t her fault. It’s the same for Hu Fengge. And for Shang Guanhaonan, and those troops loyal to their oaths… You shouldn’t treat lives so carelessly. It’s too cruel and brutal.”
Mu Qingyan laughed bitterly, “Careless with lives? Cruel and brutal? I’ve always been this way. Long before I met you, I was like this. Are you only realizing it now? Hmm, perhaps it would have been better if Qi Yunke and the others had crippled me, to prevent future troubles. Why bother saving me?”
Cai Zhao moved closer, tugging at his sleeve, but he shook her off forcefully.
“I know your plan. You saved me because I once helped and saved you. Now you’ve repaid the debt, and we’re even. Hm, Lady Cai, you’ve calculated this well!”
Mu Qingyan’s face was terrifyingly ashen, but his eyes were tinged with blood, both domineering and desperate. “Crippled or not, I’ve been cursed with this wretched life since childhood. I don’t need your pity!”
Cai Zhao grabbed his sleeve again, this time stubbornly holding on.
Mu Qingyan shouted angrily, “What do you want? If you’re leaving, then go! I won’t beg you to stay! I…” As he turned, he saw the girl’s tear-streaked face and was stunned into silence.
Cai Zhao choked back sobs, “You’re so proud, afraid of the dark and fire. Even with your profound skills, you live in constant fear and suspicion. If you become crippled, how will you survive? How will you live?”
Mu Qingyan felt a pang in his heart – the only person in the world who wouldn’t despise him, his father, was gone. Who else would care how he lived?
Cai Zhao looked up at him. “I believe that without the Seven Bugs and Seven Flowers pills, You Guanyue and the others wouldn’t betray you. You don’t need life-and-death tests to find loyal followers.”
Her eyes brimming with tears, her voice hoarse, she continued, “I know you suffered greatly as a child. In saving you this time, I only hope you can learn to trust others a little more.”
Mu Qingyan felt his heart soften like water. He pulled the girl into his arms, holding her tightly as if she were his only possession. He whispered, “Don’t leave. After this is over, I’ll give You Guanyue and the others the antidote. I’ll learn to trust people. Alright? Alright?”
Cai Zhao’s chest burned with pain, almost too intense to speak through. She nodded, smiling through her tears, “I believe you. I do. But… I want to go home.”
Fury rose in Mu Qingyan’s heart. He pushed the girl away forcefully, laughing bitterly, “After all those pretty words, you still want to abandon me! Fine, go! If you leave now, I’ll forget you forever! Even if we meet again, we’ll be strangers. I mean it!”
Cai Zhao held back her tears, “I’m sorry… I want to go home. I miss home.” With that, she slowly turned away.
“Cai Zhao! Don’t regret this!” Mu Qingyan shouted at her retreating figure, his heart ravaged by fiery pain and steel-cold anguish. “I won’t forgive you a second time for leaving me. Don’t regret it!”
Cai Zhao didn’t look back, resolutely walking out of the cave.
Mu Qingyan felt as if his chest had been hollowed out. He stood there like a puppet, watching helplessly as the girl left without a backward glance, leaving him in a cold, lonely cave, silent to the point of emptiness.
Cai Zhao descended the mountain with unsteady steps and boarded a dilapidated carriage. She wiped away her tears with her sleeve, then set off towards Taichu Temple. Along the way, she repeatedly told herself, “Don’t cry, don’t cry. It’ll be fine once I’m home. It’ll be fine once I’m home.”
Traveling day and night, she exhausted herself to the point of complete fatigue, barely managing to drive his image from her heart and mind.
After reaching the third small town, Cai Zhao sold her carriage for half its worth and bought a good horse to continue her journey. She pressed on, undeterred by wind and rain. Finally, on the seventh day, she returned to Taichu Temple.
The temple was now crowded with disciples from the six sects and their associates from the martial arts world. Everyone was frantically discussing how to rescue their families from the Devil Cult’s grasp. Some had secretly contacted the cult’s branches, but the troubling fact was that the kidnappers weren’t Lü Fengchun’s current Devil Cult faction, but Mu’s followers whose whereabouts were unknown.
Qi Yunke and Zhou Zhizhen, traumatized, remained silent with dark expressions.
Yang He’ying paced anxiously, shouting to rescue the hostages immediately, but no one knew how.
Cai Pingsu and Ning Xiaofeng sighed in their room, recalling how their ancestors had dealt with the Devil Cult during the Falling Petal Valley incident.
Song Shijun could only roar angrily once again: “I told you we shouldn’t have captured Mu Qingyan! Why didn’t anyone listen to me?!”
Amidst this chaos, Cai Zhao’s appearance was like a thunderbolt.
Sharp gazes from all directions pierced her like thorny branches – some contemptuous, some shocked, some wary, some mocking… Her small, slender figure moved determinedly through the crowd, ignoring them all.
Qi Lingbo rushed out and slapped Cai Zhao hard across the face.
The force of the slap turned Cai Zhao’s face, her pale cheek quickly swelling red.
Qi Lingbo, her eyes red and swollen, pointed at Cai Zhao and cursed, “You shameless little whore! How dare you… How dare you hurt my father! He treated you like his own daughter, loved you more than me! Yet you shamelessly colluded with that Devil Cult demon. To save your lover, you even dared to harm my father. I… I must kill you!”
She drew her sword, about to strike Cai Zhao.
“Enough!” Song Yuzhi leaped forward, his sword clashing with Qi Lingbo’s. “How to deal with her is for the sect leaders to decide. It’s not your place to act!”
Qi Lingbo’s eyes were bloodshot. “You’re protecting her again! Hmph, what a pity. She doesn’t care about you at all. Her heart belongs only to that Devil Cult demon! Fine, I’ll spare her life for now, let the elders decide. But I must avenge my father – whichever arm she used to hurt him, I’ll cut it off…”
“Have you gone mad?! Don’t embarrass Qingque Sect in front of everyone!” Song Yuzhi shouted angrily.
Dai Fengchi unsheathed his sword, yelling, “If this little whore isn’t afraid of shame, why should we be?”
As the three were about to argue, Cai Zhao suddenly looked up. “Senior Sister Lingbo, watch carefully.”
Qi Lingbo froze.
Cai Zhao picked up a small stone from the ground. With a flick of her finger, she sent it flying in a swift arc, bypassing Dai Fengchi who stood in front of Qi Lingbo, and striking Qi Lingbo’s sword with a loud “ping”.
The blade vibrated, numbing Qi Lingbo’s wrist. She could barely hold onto her sword.
“What are you trying to do?! You think… Ah!” she screamed.
With a series of clear “ding” sounds, Qi Lingbo’s sword began to shatter from the tip to the hilt.
To everyone’s shock, soon only a bare hilt remained in Qi Lingbo’s hand. Hearing muffled laughter around her, she flushed with shame and anger.
Cai Zhao merely glanced at her, her imposing aura silencing any potential reproach.
Although Qi Lingbo hadn’t used her energy to resist, the sword was specially forged for her by Yin Qinglian and was a renowned weapon. That a small stone could shatter such a finely crafted sword spoke volumes about Cai Zhao’s skill.
The malicious gazes around them were immediately subdued.
“Senior Sister Lingbo,” Cai Zhao said calmly, her cheek still swollen, “I tolerated your slap out of courtesy. Don’t mistake my courtesy for weakness. If you dare speak rudely again, your arm will meet the same fate as this sword.”
Knowing she was outmatched, Qi Lingbo threw down the hilt and stormed off.
Dai Fengchi sneered, “Indeed, after spending time with the Devil Cult’s leader, she’s full of evil energy. Threatening her senior sister, truly wicked!”
Song Yuzhi felt an inexplicable irritation, realizing his actions were insufficient and Cai Zhao had to defend herself. Why was he always a step behind? Why couldn’t he be like that Devil Cult demon, unhesitatingly risking everything just to see his beloved quickly?
He swung his sword at Dai Fengchi’s blade. With a harsh metallic clash, Dai Fengchi’s sword broke in half.
Song Yuzhi said coldly, “Second Senior Brother if you have more to say, let’s spar.”
“You’re threatening me too?” Dai Fengchi raged.
“I wouldn’t dare. I just suddenly feel like sparring with my senior brother.”
Dai Fengchi had no choice but to leave angrily.
Song Yuzhi escorted Cai Zhao forward, passing through layers of disciples from the six sects in their varied attire, through the blade-like gazes of malice and contempt. Finally, Cai Zhao stood before the sect leaders seated in the hall.
She knelt properly, first removing the Yan Yang Blade from her waist and placing it at Qi Yunke’s feet. “Aunt’s Yan Yang Blade is for vanquishing evil and upholding righteousness. I’m unworthy to wield it.”
Then she unfastened the silver chain from her left wrist, placing it before the nearly crying Ning Xiaofeng. “The heart-protecting chain my grandfather personally forged for me – I used it to save someone from the Devil Cult. I’m unworthy to wear it.”
Finally, she removed the peach blossom hairpin Cai Pingsu had carved for her. With her hair loose, Cai Zhao respectfully kowtowed three times to the five sect leaders, saying clearly, “Disciple Cai Zhao has betrayed her masters, colluded with the Devil Cult, harmed her fellow disciples, and disrespected her elders. These are unforgivable sins. I sincerely ask for punishment today and will willingly accept any penalty.”
Her words caused an uproar among the crowd.
They had expected Cai Zhao to either beg for mercy or negotiate, given her boldness in returning. No one anticipated her submitting to punishment.
Even without combining her crimes, betraying her masters alone was enough to cost her half her life.
“Zhao, raise your head,” Qi Yunke suddenly spoke. “Have you come to your senses this time?”
Cai Zhao looked up, seeing that kind face had aged years in just days. She felt overwhelmed with guilt and choked out, “Yes, Zhao understands now. I can’t bear to leave my family and sect.”
Qi Yunke nodded, his face pale.
“Zhao Zhao, Zhao Zhao!” Zhou Zhixian cried anxiously. “My mother, and my aunt, they… they…”
Cai Zhao smiled faintly. “They should return soon. They’re probably on their way now.” After capturing the sects’ families, You Guanyue likely rushed to Taichu Temple to negotiate.
“Are you sure?” Zhou Zhixian asked shakily.
Cai Zhao glanced at the equally nervous Yang He’ying and the seemingly nonchalant Song Shijun, then smiled. “Aunt Zhixian, they’ll return soon.”
Zhou Zhixian sighed in relief. “Alright, I believe you.”
“Enough, let’s discuss her punishment now,” Li Wenxun said sternly, his voice as harsh as scraping steel.
A moment of silence followed, then chaos erupted.
Strictly speaking, betraying one’s masters and colluding with the Devil Cult were capital offenses, deserving expulsion from the sect.
However, since Cai Zhao hadn’t caused any deaths during the rescue, a less severe punishment would be to strip her of her martial arts skills.
Yang He’ying loudly agreed with this proposal, both to avenge his embarrassment and to eliminate a future threat.
Cai Pingsu and Ning Xiaofeng naturally refused, insisting on taking their daughter away, daring anyone to stop them.
Song Shijun was particularly magnanimous, suggesting that everyone makes mistakes when young, and since no one died, they should let it go.
Li Wenxun vehemently opposed this, arguing that sects have rules. If they let Cai Zhao off lightly, wouldn’t future disciples also associate with the Devil Cult and harm their masters and fellow disciples, expecting leniency?
Amidst the arguments, Zhou Zhizhen quietly approached Cai Zhao, leaning down to whisper, “Zhao, did your aunt… love that man?”
Cai Zhao turned to look at him, noticing his hair had suddenly grayed at the temples in just over half a month. She felt sad. “She did love him, but later probably not – Aunt has always been able to let go easily.”
Zhou Zhizhen murmured to himself, “Yes when you love the wrong person, you should let go quickly. Pingsu is just like that.” He shook his head and walked away unsteadily.
After a day and night of heated debate, the final verdict was reached: seven lashes with the Nine Yin Bone-Penetrating Python Whip, followed by confinement in the Thousand Mountains and Rivers Cliff for reflection. Initially, Cai’s parents refused to accept this punishment, but Cai Zhao herself agreed.
The main hall of Taichu Temple had partially collapsed, and Cai Zhao had injured the leaders of the five sects while rescuing the Demonic Cult’s leader. Such grave offenses couldn’t be overlooked, especially with thousands of watchful eyes upon them. The Northern Chen Six Sects needed to maintain their righteous reputation among their peers in the martial arts world.
In just over two weeks, the carefree young girl had seemingly matured overnight. Ning Xiaofeng wept bitterly at this realization.
Qi Yunke also supported the decision, saying, “Let Zhaozao endure this punishment. Afterward, if anyone dares to mock or shame her, she can retaliate without hesitation. We reward merit and punish wrongdoing. Once the punishment is over, Zhaozao will owe nothing to anyone.”
“Master…” Cai Zhao felt grateful, knowing that Qi Yunke must have heard about Qi Lingbo’s mistreatment of her.
Yang Heying initially thought the punishment was too lenient and planned to secretly contact renowned martial artists to pressure a harsher sentence. However, Qi Yunke intervened, declaring, “Without Cai Pingsu, the entire Yang family would have been turned into corpse puppets by Nie Hengcheng. Master Yang, I advise you to show mercy where you can. Your wife and children haven’t even returned yet.”
Yang Heying had no choice but to back down reluctantly.
Song Shijun, who usually found Qi Yunke’s meekness frustrating, now felt a twinge of jealousy at his newfound assertiveness, remarking on Sect Leader Qi’s impressive display of authority.
The following evening, as dusk settled and a chilling wind blew, the time for punishment arrived. Taichu Temple’s imposing punishment rack stood tall and menacing. Cai Zhao, dressed in white, knelt with her arms wrapped around the massive frame, her wrists bound by chains.
The execution ground, covered in yellow sand, was crowded with a sea of onlookers – disciples from the six sects and numerous martial arts practitioners from various backgrounds. Throughout history, human curiosity has remained largely unchanged.
Under Li Wenxun’s watchful eye, Fan Xingjia approached trembling, carrying an ice crystal jade box. Inside were ice needles used for sealing acupoints, each as thin as a hair and crystal clear. Cai Zhao was reminded of the thick, menacing golden needles used when they had attempted to cripple Mu Qingyan’s cultivation. She inwardly smiled bitterly at the irony of fate’s cycle.
Fan Xingjia, wearing gloves made of ice silkworm silk, began sealing Cai Zhao’s acupoints. One needle at the jade pillow point, two at the celestial pillar, three at the wind gate… For martial artists of a certain level, ordinary flesh wounds were insignificant. Thus, before punishment, it was necessary to seal 90% of the recipient’s power, leaving only 10% to protect their vital organs. This ensured the punishment wouldn’t be fatal while preventing the recipient from using their skills to resist the pain.
As Fan Xingjia reached the final baihui acupoint, he hesitated. Subtly blocking Li Wenxun’s view, his hand trembled, and the ice needle vanished. Cai Zhao, noticing this, glanced at him curiously. Fan Xingjia’s face was flushed and sweaty, embarrassed and nervous. Before Cai Zhao could react, he scurried away.
Li Wenxun frowned, muttering, “Exhausted after inserting just a few needles. Xingjia needs more training.” He then left to retrieve the python whip.
Cai Zhao lay on the rack, closing her eyes. A long-forgotten sense of powerlessness filled her body. She reflected on her childhood – climbing trees for fruit and being locked in rooms as punishment. After her breakthrough at eleven, she had never felt so helpless again. It was a strange sensation, especially considering Fan Xingjia had secretly left her with slightly more power than intended.
She wondered how Mu Qingyan would have felt if his cultivation had truly been crippled. How frightened he must have been.
With a loud crack, Li Wenxun unfurled the Nine Yin Bone-Penetrating Python Whip. The dark iron weapon gleamed ominously in the sunlight, resembling a giant black python. Its heavy, sharp body was covered in scale-like barbs, capable of tearing flesh with each strike. Timid onlookers trembled at the sight.
“Begin the punishment!” Li Wenxun announced. “First lash!”
The black whip curved through the air, landing heavily on the girl’s slender back.
“Ah!” Cai Zhao cried out briefly.
Her back felt as if branded by hot coals, the pain and heat causing her muscles to spasm. As she tasted blood, she heard Ning Xiaofeng’s scream and Cai Pingchun’s heated argument, seemingly requesting the seven lashes be administered separately.
Impossible, she thought. The Nine Yin Python Whip punishment had never been divided in all of history.
She decided not to cry out for the next lash, not wanting to worry her parents further.
“Second lash,” Li Wenxun called steadily.
CRACK!
Fearing she might bite her tongue again, Cai Zhao bit down on her sleeve, muffling her screams in the layers of fabric. Sweat drenched her forehead, stinging her eyes.
She managed to stay silent this time.
“Third lash.”
Cai Zhao whimpered, her sleeve likely torn.
She thought she heard her mother’s sorrowful cries – a sound that shouldn’t be associated with weeping. That sweet, charming voice was meant for teasing her father, joking with townspeople, and playing tricks on her children. Her aunt had protected her for years; how could she let her mother cry like this? Father, please comfort her, she thought.
Aunt had always said mother was the kindest, most lovable girl in the world, with Cai Zhao herself coming second. Given her mother’s background, she could have lived a carefree life. Instead, in her youth, she chose to stay in Luoying Valley for over a decade to protect her sister-in-law.
Cai Zhao knew her father had sacrificed much too. She had seen him secretly reading her great-uncle’s travelogues of the Western Regions.
She made a silent promise: Once I complete my training, I’ll return to guard Luoying Valley and little Han. Then you can take your mother to travel and see the world. As for me, I never want to leave again. I’ll stay in Luoying Valley forever.
“Fourth lash.”
Cai Zhao convulsed, her back aflame. She could no longer tell where this strike had landed. She felt like meat roasting over a fire, her flesh torn open by the whip’s sharp barbs.
She remembered when she was eight, learning to use a silver chain, and had cut her hand deeply. Before her aunt could react, Qi Yunke had rushed over, cradling little Cai Zhao and scolding Cai Pingsu for being too harsh. “She’s just a child!” he had cried.
Cai Pingsu had responded dryly, “When we became sworn siblings, I never realized you were such a worrywart.”
Her aunt had said she and her master had seen each other at their most embarrassing moments – Qi Yunke fleeing from a mother bear with half his pants torn off, exposing one buttock; Cai Pingsu, disguised as a man, cornered by an aggressive courtesan and forced to shave her head to feign becoming a monk, only for the courtesan to lose interest halfway through, leaving her with a partially shaved head.
Young Qi Yunke believed these carefree, playful days would last forever. Sadly, by middle age, one had become the burdened leader of the Qingque Sect, while the other lay bedridden, frail, and ill. Their days of laughter and adventure in the martial arts world seemed like a lifetime ago.
So Qi Yunke would carry little Cai Zhao on his shoulders, wandering the streets amidst her cheerful laughter. He’d then recount the day’s interesting sights and sounds to Cai Pingsu at home, filling the room with joy.
Alas, the child once carried on his shoulders had now grievously wounded Qi Yunke.
“Fifth lash!”
Cai Zhao bit her lip hard, tasting blood. She heard her bones shifting – had the whip reached bone? It felt as if she were a live fish being scaled, her flesh no longer her own, only the twisting pain of muscles beneath the skin persisting.
She noticed Li Wenxun’s voice wavering slightly.
Why hadn’t Uncle Zhou come today? Aunt had said that in his youth, Zhou Zhizhen was indescribably handsome, the dream of countless young women. Cai Zhao couldn’t help but wonder why her aunt had hesitated to fulfill their marriage agreement back then. Cai Pingsu had only sighed wistfully, her gaze distant.
Why do people fall for the wrong person? If only her aunt had loved Uncle Zhou, perhaps later regrets could have been avoided. Compared to becoming an invalid, even Old Lady Min wasn’t such a formidable opponent.
What did that Mu Zhengyang look like? Was he similar – tall nose, handsome features, a gentle smile when happy, cold sneers when angry?
“Sixth lash!”
The pain was so intense that no sound emerged, only ragged breathing through cracked lips. Why, even when the pain numbed her fingertips, could she still feel the ache in her heart?
Golden stars danced before her eyes, reminiscent of fireflies on summer nights. She remembered, as a child, crying to her aunt about a pet biting her, vowing never to love animals again. Her aunt had gently replied, “Zhaozao, loving isn’t wrong. If you realize you’ve loved wrongly, just find a way to change. The world is beautiful; never stop loving because you’re afraid.”
Tears flowed as Cai Zhao sobbed silently.
She tried to think of happier times – the sea of flowers in Luoying Valley in May, the aroma of dinner wafting through town at dusk, snowball fights with her family in winter…
He wouldn’t know how to have a snowball fight. Even in the snowy Hanhai Mountains, he’d never played like that. His father preferred solitude, Old Cheng was elderly, and Shisan was away training. He had no peers and no joyful childhood.
On the snowy ridge, when she playfully stuffed snow down his collar, he didn’t know to retaliate with a snowball. The snow-covered mountaintop gleamed, and his laughter was brighter than the sun.
He wasn’t a bad person. She hadn’t loved the wrong person. But this was as far as they could go.
Another searing pain across her back.
As her vision blurred and consciousness faded, she hazily thought, “I hope he’ll keep a small light on at night. Don’t force yourself to sleep when afraid… it leads to nightmares…”
“Master, we must leave now,” the disguised You Guanyue urged, supporting the tall man beside him. “If they discover us, we’ll be in grave danger.”
The two blended into the crowd of onlookers, their movements going unnoticed amidst the throng of martial artists and hidden followers.
Mu Qingyan, concealed beneath his cloak, stared intently at the unconscious girl being taken down from the punishment rack. Song Yuzhi, face ashen, rushed forward to carry her, shouting angrily at the smirking Qi Lingbo…
“Master, we really must go!” You Guanyue pleaded anxiously, scanning their surroundings. “I know you’re worried about Miss Zhaozao, but now isn’t the time! There’s much to handle back in the Hanhai Mountains!”
Mu Qingyan finally moved. You Guanyue quickly supported him as they discreetly left Taichu Temple, while Liu Jiangfeng signaled their followers to withdraw quietly.
After half a day’s bumpy carriage ride, they reached the banks of the Suchuan River, where a large contingent and boats awaited them.
Mu Qingyan alighted and instructed You Guanyue to send messages: mobilize forces from the western foothills of Hanhai to support Shangguan Haonan if he was counterattacking Lu Fengchun, and have Shisan enter through the secret tunnel to retrieve Hu Fengge’s body if possible.
“I want to be alone. Don’t follow me,” Mu Qingyan said, taking You Guanyue’s sword and splitting a bamboo raft in two. He sat on the untethered half, drifting away with the current.
As twilight fell and the moon rose, Mu Qingyan lay on the small raft, his limbs and hair trailing in the water. The gentle flow reminded him of his father’s soothing touch during childhood illnesses.
His father, gentler and clearer than these waters, had achieved none of his desires in life.
Four years ago, Mu Qingyan had vowed never to repeat his father’s mistakes. He sought power, freedom of action, and dominion – believing at fifteen that this was his only wish.
Until he met her in that mountain valley, he didn’t realize what he truly wanted: someone to love him unconditionally, someone who would never abandon him, someone who would love him enough to sacrifice their desires.
The cool river slowly soaked through his clothes. He resolved to forget her, as decisively as her departing figure. Slowly, bit by bit, until she was completely forgotten.
The Suchuan’s waters lapped gently, like fingers caressing his forehead. He remembered his father again, and the small hands that had tended his feverish brow during their days fleeing in a carriage…
He covered his eyes with his long fingers, silent tears trailing down his cheeks.
[End of Chapter]