Mulan Was Originally a Court Scholar

“Hungry ghosts are coming! Ten thousand Buddhas ablaze!” As A’Xiu fled along the narrow alley, he rushed into the kitchen like a wisp of smoke, shouting and yelling, when he heard a servant cry out: “Young Master! You’ve finally returned! Steward! Come quickly! Young Master is back!” A’Xiu was startled. He knew the Yang family steward was surnamed Cai and had served faithfully for decades, earning the trust of everyone in the Yang household. Every time the steward saw him, he would nag endlessly with a whole string of lectures. If he caught hold of him this time, nothing good would come of it. He hurriedly said: “Stop shouting! Keep shouting and I won’t save you!”

The servant looked bewildered: “Save me? Young Master, what do you want to save me from?” A’Xiu shouted loudly: “The world is in chaos, ten thousand Buddhas ablaze! The end times have arrived! Don’t you know you’re courting death? Get lost!” He casually found a large hemp sack and threw all the steamed buns and pastries into it, packing it full. He didn’t forget to grab an extra orange before heading straight to the carp pond to pay respects to his mother.

Arriving at the carp pond, sunlight shone brightly all around, a gentle breeze blew softly – it was the time of spring’s warmth and blooming flowers. A’Xiu suddenly felt a bit tired, so he set down the hemp sack and muttered to himself: “Let me sit for a while first. I still have to flee this afternoon, better not exhaust myself to death.” Holding the orange, he slowly sat down and gazed at the large pond before him.

This carp pond had another name – it was called “Dragon Eye Pool.” According to his uncle, this pond was the eye of the Dragon King, the water god, holding his tears. Because of this, even when other families’ wells ran dry, this pool remained clear as always, day after day for decades. Whether this legend was true or false, A’Xiu didn’t care much. As long as he wasn’t thirsty, why worry about where the water came from?

“Mountains need not be high if they have immortals, they become spiritual.” Actually, this “Carp Pond” was beautiful because his mother lived beside it. When she first came to the Yang family, father gave her the pavilion as her painting studio. The scenery was pleasant, quiet and elegant. In her leisure time, she would stay in the pavilion, sometimes painting, sometimes composing poetry. Except for little A’Xiu, no one could find her.

A’Xiu sat by the pond holding the sweet orange, peeled the skin and casually threw it on the ground, not forgetting to spit. After all, with hungry ghosts attacking, everything in the human world would turn to nothing – why bother maintaining cleanliness? Wouldn’t that be a waste of energy? With this thought, he even deliberately trampled the flower beds, determined to leave no regrets even in death. A’Xiu chewed the orange, stretched lazily, and simply lay flat, eating the orange while shaking his feet and humming a tune – utterly comfortable.

Children are like this – earlier he was shouting about fleeing in apparent earnestness, but once back home, he was reluctant to leave. He stared blankly at the carp pond, thinking: “If there’s really a war, I won’t be able to see this pond anymore.” At this thought, he actually felt somewhat sad. Things in the world are always difficult to have both ways – if you want to avoid school, hungry ghosts must come, but when hungry ghosts come, the capital will be at war, inevitably harming many people. A’Xiu sighed. He lay by the pond talking to himself: “What can be done? Is there no way to prevent the hungry ghosts from coming while also not having to attend school? That would kill two birds with one stone.” Killing two birds with one stone is rare in the human world, but having to choose between fish and bear’s paw happens all the time. A’Xiu felt somewhat troubled. Suddenly he saw his own face reflected in the water, reflecting dots of sunlight – indescribably handsome. A’Xiu was greatly delighted, secretly praising himself: “So I’m born this beautiful – I never noticed before.”

Being a child at heart, seeing his own appearance so divine and handsome, he threw all thoughts of hungry ghosts to the ninth heaven, only focusing on touching his forehead and admiring his reflection in the pond. Just as he was making faces, he saw that jade pendant again. Since childhood, his mother had sewn this jade band for him to cover his forehead, because A’Xiu had a birthmark between his brows – unique in the world – so it needed to be concealed with jade to avoid the jealousy of gods and ghosts. A’Xiu blankly reached up and untied the jade pendant, staring at himself in the water. Instantly he saw that long narrow scar again, looking like Erlang Shen’s heavenly eye, unforgettable at first sight. A’Xiu blankly touched the scar on his forehead. From childhood to now, he didn’t know how many times he had asked his mother why others only had two eyes but only he was born with three eyes. Yet his mother would always change the subject and refuse to say more. Instead, it was his aunt who said he was reincarnated from heaven, so he had one more eye than others – he was a blessed person. After A’Xiu heard this nonsense, he actually believed it, because this explanation also resolved another doubt in his heart: why didn’t he have a father? Other children had fathers, but A’Xiu didn’t. He had never seen his own father. If he hadn’t often played with other children, he probably wouldn’t even know that such a thing as “daddy” existed in the world.

Having no father was fine – A’Xiu still had his mother, so he had everything. But when he turned six, his grandmother passed away, and his mother married into the Yang family with him. A’Xiu suddenly had a “father” – that was “Uncle Yang.” However, A’Xiu wasn’t happy at all; instead he cried and made a fuss. He refused to death to change his name – he wouldn’t become “Yang Shenxiu,” he only wanted to remain his little A’Xiu. At this time, “Uncle Yang” personally came to counsel him. He said A’Xiu was actually surnamed “Yang” to begin with, because the heavenly eye on his forehead was the mark of “Three-Eyed Erlang Shen.”

Erlang Shen was named “Yang Jian,” also surnamed Yang. It was said this deity was the Jade Emperor’s nephew – handsome and graceful with superior martial arts. He also raised a mighty Howling Celestial Dog, invincible in battle and attack, and the divine eye on his forehead could even emit light. When A’Xiu heard he was the reincarnation of “Erlang Shen,” he was overjoyed and happily agreed to everyone’s wishes, becoming today’s “Yang Shenxiu.” Several years passed, A’Xiu grew up, his knowledge broadened, and he naturally realized he had been deceived. What “Erlang Shen descending to earth,” what “reincarnated from heaven,” falling into a soy milk shop as a little baby and meeting his mother to call her mama – it was all nonsense to fool children. Though he no longer believed this ghost talk, he also no longer enthusiastically inquired about the origin of his divine eye, nor did he ever again ask who his birth father was, because A’Xiu understood in his heart that he already had a “father.” Since entering the Yang family, father had always been strict with him, sometimes even beating him with rattan canes. Though A’Xiu cursed with his mouth, he actually held no resentment in his heart, because he understood father truly cared for him – if not treating him as a son, who would beat someone nearly to death? But… but… A’Xiu looked toward the pond water, touching his own heavenly eye, and unknowingly tears had already filled his eyes. Who really was A’Xiu’s real father? Why did he never come to visit him? Could it be he disliked A’Xiu and thus abandoned him? A’Xiu buried his face in his knees and cried softly.

Just as he was feeling sorry for himself, suddenly his mind stirred: “Wait, not only me – that strange man earlier also had a heavenly eye. He… who exactly is he?” A’Xiu was a precocious child who had stopped believing in “heavenly eyes and Buddha pupils” since age eight, but he hadn’t expected this matter to actually have evidence. Not only him – there was actually another person in the world born with this “divine eye”! Just now he had seen with his own eyes that strange man on the city wall who looked exactly like him – he also had three eyes. Who exactly was he? Why did he stare intently at him? He even claimed to know his mother and said he had held him as a child. Could it be this person was… was…

A’Xiu opened his mouth wide and couldn’t help jumping up, saying in a trembling voice: “It can’t be, it can’t be, there’s no such thing!”

A’Xiu became frightened. In his panic he shook his head desperately, but that strange man’s face just wouldn’t go away. That divine eye was so clear, imprinted on his brow and forehead – the appearance and position exactly the same as his own. If… if he really was his birth father, what would happen? Would he come knocking on the door to take him away from his mother? A’Xiu’s heart seemed to stop. Dimly he seemed to see himself bidding farewell to his mother, following a stranger to a foreign land. From then on, mama would be gone, uncle would be gone, father would be gone too, but beside him would be an additional three-eyed strange man grinning foolishly. A’Xiu was so frightened his teeth chattered. Thinking of that man’s shabby appearance, he was probably a pauper. If he really had to depend on him for survival, he would be unable to live or die. He immediately burst into tears: “No! No! Mama! Don’t give me away!” In his terror, he no longer dared to think wildly and rushed toward the carp pond, running into the pavilion.

Being a child who didn’t watch his step, just as he reached the doorway, his toe suddenly hurt. “Ouch!” He immediately fell flat on his face. A’Xiu painfully climbed up cursing: “Earth God, you take money but don’t do work! Forgot this young master was reincarnated from heaven? Why don’t you come protect me…” He muttered bitter curses and looked carefully, seeing a shoulder pole on the ground with a wooden box on each end – it was a noodle cart he had seen on the street. A’Xiu exclaimed: “Whose thing is this? How did it end up here?”

This was a small kitchen where his mother sometimes cooked midnight snacks when she got tired from painting late at night. He hadn’t expected that his mother, not content with just eating, had actually bought a noodle cart from the street to bring home. Could she be planning to sell noodles at home? Thinking of this word “noodles,” he suddenly felt something was wrong, as if he had heard someone mention something related to noodle sellers before. He couldn’t figure it out but didn’t forget to take revenge – he lifted his foot and kicked the noodle cart. Who knew the wooden box was made so sturdily that it only made his foot hurt. He hopped around holding his foot, crying “ouch, ouch” as he jumped upstairs.

This pavilion had two floors – the bottom was the kitchen and guest room, the top was his mother’s residence. He pushed open the door. Inside was quiet and still, as if his mother hadn’t gotten up yet. A’Xiu blinked and walked to the bedside for a look. He saw a cotton quilt covering the kang, with a woman facing inward, revealing a full head of jet-black beautiful hair like silk. Under the cotton quilt, a pair of crystal clear, snow-white legs were also visible – truly captivating. A’Xiu exclaimed and thought with surprise: “Mama’s legs have turned white?” Mama was from Yangzhou, her skin tone was considered fair, but compared to father, uncle, and grandmother, she still fell short by a considerable margin. But strangely, after one night, mama’s skin had become snow-white and crystal clear, like mutton-fat jade. Could she have eaten some divine elixir? A’Xiu stared blankly. Seeing the thighs right before his eyes, he reached out to touch them, planning to experience it for himself. Truly worthy of being thighs – they felt smooth and slippery, very pleasant to touch. A’Xiu blinked and carefully pinched them again. The thighs moved slightly and withdrew under the cotton quilt.

Just as he was wondering, beautiful hair flowed on the pillow as the woman turned around, sleeping deeply. A’Xiu looked carefully and couldn’t help being greatly shocked: “Strange! Who… who is this woman?”

Lying before him was a young lady about twenty years old with long, very beautiful eyelashes. Her skin was fair and her cheeks were plumper than his mother’s. After looking several times, he suddenly realized: “Oh my! Isn’t this Auntie Fang!”

A’Xiu naturally recognized Qiong Fang. Before New Year, he had gone to “Kuixing’s Five Trials” to watch people compete in martial arts, when he had seen such an elegant young gentleman. Later it was indeed confirmed she was a woman named “Qiong Fang.” But strangely, this Auntie Fang was clearly Auntie Juan’s friend and wasn’t very familiar with mama – why was she sleeping in mama’s bed?

A’Xiu was too lazy to think much about it. Anyway, the bed was soft with a beautiful woman sleeping on top. Suddenly feeling very sleepy, he yawned: “I didn’t sleep a wink last night. Let me lie down for a bit.” He threw down the hemp sack and quickly climbed onto the kang, planning to share a pillow with the beautiful woman.

The weather was cold, but the quilt was warm as spring. A’Xiu felt very comfortable. He raised his head to first look at Auntie Fang’s pretty face, then smelled the fragrance on her body. His face couldn’t help reddening and his heart racing as he thought: “If I had been born ten years earlier, I would definitely marry her as my wife.” Then he thought again: “I wonder if she likes children? Then I could trick her into being another godmother.” He immediately employed his method for dealing with godmothers – first snuggling close to her bosom to win her affection and get some benefits, then his hands and feet would embrace her, planning to squeeze around randomly.

“How dare you!” With an “ouch” scream, A’Xiu tumbled right out, hitting the table leg. The round stool overturned and he immediately began wailing loudly. The cotton quilt was thrown back and Qiong Fang finally sat up.

She had been unable to sleep last night and had finally dozed off groggily at dawn. Who would have thought that after sleeping less than a few hours, there would be mosquitoes biting her thigh, making it terribly itchy. Later something crawled onto the bed like a ghost pressing down on her. Being naturally fierce and brave, she said nothing and kicked out with one foot, indeed kicking down a little demon.

Having eliminated the demonic nuisance, all troubles disappeared. Just as she was about to lie back down to sleep, she heard a child crying under the bed. Qiong Fang exclaimed and poked her head out to look, seeing a child lying under the bed with a jade pendant on his forehead, crying loudly – who else could it be but Gu Qianxi’s precious son? Qiong Fang had only seen A’Xiu a few times and couldn’t claim to be familiar with him, but to suddenly attack and hit someone made her feel somewhat guilty. She hurriedly said: “You… you’re called A’Xiu, right? Did I hurt you?” A’Xiu was skilled at fake crying and quickly wiped his tears, sobbing: “It hurts so much… my bones seem broken…” Qiong Fang sighed: “Who told you to sneak onto the bed? Weren’t you asking for a beating?” A’Xiu cried: “That’s my mama’s bed! How was I to know you were sleeping on it… and you’re still blaming me…”

Qiong Fang thought this made sense too, but she wasn’t good at coaxing children, so she could only cough a few times and look around, asking: “Where’s your mama? Has she gotten up?” A’Xiu said sullenly: “How would I know? I was going to ask you.”

Qiong Fang had been tired all night and was now groggy. Hearing that Gu Qianxi wasn’t in the room, she had no energy to think about anything else and lay back down again, instructing: “Little A’Xiu, don’t make noise first. Auntie Fang still needs to sleep a while.” She rolled up in the cotton quilt, about to snore and sleep, but A’Xiu also crawled over, yawning: “I’m so tired too. Lend me a bit of space to lie down.” He lifted the cotton quilt and crawled in by himself.

At this time, Qiong Fang was wearing an inner shirt. When the cotton quilt was pulled back, it revealed her snow-white skin all over, especially her thighs which were pink, tender, crystal clear and particularly eye-catching. But A’Xiu was still young, so there were no precautions between men and women. She simply let him lie beside her and asked: “You didn’t sleep all night? What did you go do?”

“I encountered ghosts!” A’Xiu yawned continuously and sighed: “Last night I chanted sutras and performed magic to exorcise ghosts for my sworn brother. Who knew I myself would be caught by ghosts, then I saw a million hungry ghosts killing their way toward Beijing. Finally even the Three-Eyed Erlang Shen descended – it was truly a living hell.”

Qiong Fang laughed speechlessly: “What gods and ghosts – there’s only you, this little ghost. Where do all these ghosts come from?” A’Xiu sighed: “If you don’t believe it, forget it. Anyway, the world is in chaos. You seek your own fortune.” As he spoke, the sleep demon truly attacked. He gave a big yawn, rolled up all the cotton quilt, closed his eyes and slept.

Qiong Fang was also extremely tired and snatched the cotton quilt back to catch up on sleep and rest briefly. A’Xiu snored loudly, sleeping very soundly. Slowly he snuggled into Qiong Fang’s embrace and suddenly moved. Qiong Fang exclaimed and looked down at A’Xiu. Seeing the child’s face was innocent and naive, she thought she was being oversensitive and closed her eyes again.

Qiong Fang closed her eyes to rest. Beside her, a pair of little eyes immediately squinted open – it was A’Xiu. He secretly glanced at Auntie Fang, then gently moved again. Hearing her breathing was deep and heavy without any awareness, he was overjoyed and was about to move around wildly when he felt a pain in his buttocks. With an “ah-ya” scream, he flew off the bed again. He rolled to the doorway like a ball, and before he could shamelessly return, his buttocks were stepped on again. He immediately cried miserably: “Ouch! You’re stepping me to death!”

A startled cry rang out as a beautiful woman quickly lifted her foot – it was Gu Qianxi who had arrived. She frowned and crouched down to help A’Xiu up, saying: “What are you doing lying on the floor? Mama almost stepped on you and hurt you.” A’Xiu deserved his bad luck but couldn’t very well explain the truth, so he could only say tearfully: “The floor is cool, it’s really comfortable to lie on.”

A’Xiu’s strange behavior was nothing new. Gu Qianxi’s face showed displeasure: “How come you’ve been playing all night and only just returned? Didn’t mama tell you to come home before dawn?” A’Xiu said anxiously: “Mama, you don’t know – I encountered ghosts last night!” Gu Qianxi looked bewildered: “Encountered ghosts? What ghosts?” A’Xiu hurriedly said: “Big ghosts, little ghosts, hungry ghosts! Everything! Mama! Let me tell you something important…” Gu Qianxi had no time to listen: “We’ll talk later. Mama needs to attend to guests.” She set down a plate of hot steamed buns and walked to the bedside, asking: “Sister, are you up?”

Qiong Fang had long been awake and quickly sat up: “Sorry, I slept in.” Gu Qianxi looked radiant and was in an excellent mood, smiling: “It doesn’t matter. You should have slept more on Lantern Festival night last night.” She took out a bottle of medicine and sat on the edge of the bed: “Does your hand still hurt?” Qiong Fang quickly said: “It doesn’t hurt anymore.”

Last night Qiong Fang had been beaten severely by the Imperial Uncle. In her grief and indignation, she left home, but having brought no money, she came to seek refuge with Gu Qianxi. These things were inconvenient to discuss, and Gu Qianxi naturally wouldn’t bring them up either. She just took her hand to carefully examine the injuries. Seeing the palm was still red, swollen and broken without improvement, she silently poured out medicinal wine and carefully applied it for her.

The two were close together. Qiong Fang also took the opportunity to observe her, seeing Gu Qianxi had a pair of beautiful phoenix eyes and long eyelashes. When she lowered her head to look down, her hair fell across half her face – indescribably beautiful. Qiong Fang stared at her blankly and suddenly said: “Sister Gu, there’s something I want to ask you. Is it convenient?” Gu Qianxi smiled and nodded: “Sister, just ask.” Qiong Fang said: “Last night when I went downstairs for water, I saw a noodle cart. Is that your thing?”

Gu Qianxi raised her head and looked at Qiong Fang. But Qiong Fang said nothing more, her large eyes moving slightly, only observing Gu Qianxi’s expression. The two looked at each other wordlessly for a long while, then Gu Qianxi lowered her head again: “Come, open your palm so I can apply medicine for you.” Qiong Fang responded and opened her palm as instructed, but her gaze still remained on Gu Qianxi’s pretty face, lingering for a long time.

Just as she was looking, a head suddenly poked over by the bed, saying curiously: “How terrible! This was beaten with rattan canes, right?” The two women turned to look – it was A’Xiu again, coming to observe. Gu Qianxi said sternly: “Go play outside. Stop making trouble here.”

A’Xiu snorted: “Who’s making trouble? Mama, don’t use cooling balm to rub it – that only stops pain. If you want to reduce swelling, you need to use tiger oil to treat the symptoms properly.” Qiong Fang was surprised: “How do you know?” Gu Qianxi sighed: “After breaking your arm three times, you become a good doctor.” Qiong Fang suddenly understood – A’Xiu had been beaten with the teacher’s rattan canes so many times that he was naturally experienced, probably more skilled than doctors.

A’Xiu chewed on a hot steamed bun while secretly watching the women apply medicine. Suddenly he said: “Mama, isn’t Auntie Fang Auntie Juan’s friend? When did she become close with you?” Gu Qianxi smiled: “Auntie Juan’s friend is mama’s friend. It’s rare that she comes to mama’s place for nighttime conversation – how could mama not receive her well?” A’Xiu was surprised: “So you can come to our house to eat and drink freely? No wonder Auntie Juan has so many friends.”

Hearing these words, Qiong Fang’s face showed slight embarrassment, and Gu Qianxi also chuckled. After applying the medicine, she brought over several pieces of clothing: “Sister, your scholar’s outfit is torn. I have some clothes here – I don’t know if they’ll fit. Get up and try them.” Qiong Fang exclaimed: “Sister Gu, please don’t be so polite…” Gu Qianxi said: “Who’s being polite? Come try them on.”

Last night Qiong Fang had come in a hurry without bringing change of clothes. Naturally Gu Qianxi was thoughtful and considerate, preparing some for her. But Qiong Fang was accustomed to men’s clothing and felt somewhat at a loss. Just as she was about to decline, A’Xiu moved over a stool and sat down, breathing through his nose, just waiting to watch the women undress. But he heard mama say: “A’Xiu, the school has afternoon classes. Go quickly and organize your books – don’t be careless again.” A’Xiu said proudly: “Mama, there’s no class today.” Gu Qianxi was slightly puzzled: “No class? Why?” A’Xiu said solemnly: “Listen well – the world is in chaos, demons run wild… the school will soon be destroyed by warfare…” Just as he was shaking his head and swaggering, he was pushed out by mama with a smile: “Go play outside. Auntie Fang needs to change clothes.” With a bang, the door closed. A’Xiu was furious and desperately beat on the door, shouting loudly: “Mama! I’m telling you the truth! We’re facing great disaster!”

Just as he was shouting, he heard a creak as the door opened and mama poked her head out again. A’Xiu breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly said: “Mama, listen to me…” But before the words left his mouth, there was a small wooden tiger carving in his hand and he heard the instruction: “Good little boy, play by yourself.” His head was patted like a little dog’s, then the door closed again, not forgetting to lock it.

People’s ignorance is like ice frozen three feet thick – not formed in a single day. He just hadn’t expected his own mama to be so foolish too, which was truly shocking. Just as he was sighing, he suddenly heard talking from inside the room: “Sister, quickly take off your clothes and try on this dress.” Hearing that Auntie Fang was about to undress, A’Xiu’s eyes widened. Thinking of the principle that men and women shouldn’t touch, he immediately ran downstairs, moved over a large wooden ladder, set it by the window, and quickly climbed up.

“Sister, come put on this skirt…” Hearing the women talking, A’Xiu’s heart pounded. He raised his finger and viciously poked at the window paper, digging out a large hole. Through the peephole, his heart racing, he secretly watched.

Just as he was looking, he saw through the peephole that mama was holding out women’s clothing – it was a light blue dress. He heard her say: “This is a Moonlight Skirt I made. I hastily altered it for you this morning – I hope it fits.” She held the clothing up against Auntie Fang’s body: “The skirt has six panels with a hundred pleats pressed in. When wind passes, the skirt hem sways. Its color is elegant like moonlight, hence the name. Come, try it on.” Mama said a whole speech, but Auntie Fang wasn’t very cooperative, hesitating: “Never mind… Sister Gu… I’m not used to wearing women’s clothing… better not…” She declined for a long time but still wouldn’t undress. A’Xiu was burning with anxiety and naturally cursed her a hundred times in his heart. But he heard mama say: “Sister, you’re already engaged – you can’t wear men’s clothing as a bride, can you? Come, let me help you undress…” She untied Auntie Fang’s scholar’s headband, letting her beautiful hair fall down.

A’Xiu was excited in his heart, thinking: “Take it off! Take it off!” Just as he was excited, he indeed saw Auntie Fang begin to remove her clothes. Remembering the legs he had seen earlier, A’Xiu wanted to explore further. Just as he was anticipating, he was shocked to see the peephole blocked – unfortunately blocked by mama’s dress skirt. A’Xiu looked at the small flowers on the skirt with great panic in his heart, but he could hear: “First time wearing women’s clothing?” He heard Auntie Fang respond affirmatively, followed by the rustling sound of clothes, presumably revealing white legs. He heard mama say again: “Stand up, let me bind your waist for you.” A’Xiu was burning with internal fire like being tortured, but before his eyes was still a large patch of small flowers. He could only quickly climb down the wooden ladder and hurriedly run back upstairs, shouting: “Mama! Someone’s looking for you!”

With a creak, the door opened and mama poked her head out, still holding an eyebrow pencil in her hand, looking bewildered: “Who’s looking for me?” “Me!” A’Xiu breathed through his nose and quickly lifted his head, bumping open the door and hurriedly looking up, only to see a beautiful woman sitting before him wearing a peach-red vest and moonlight-colored dress skirt, delicate and shy – who else but Auntie Fang?

Seeing Qiong Fang, who had worn men’s clothing all her life, now changed back to a woman’s appearance, her beauty and charm were indeed extraordinary. Gu Qianxi smiled: “A’Xiu, look – is Auntie Fang beautiful?” Qiong Fang lightly bit her white teeth and lowered her head bashfully, seeming too shy to show herself. A’Xiu looked for a long while and said coldly: “Is there a difference? I can’t tell.” Hearing this comment, mama immediately picked up a feather duster and quickly walked over. This time A’Xiu didn’t need anyone to drive him away – he had already rushed out of the room and nearly fell.

They say “disaster comes from the mouth” and “illness enters through the mouth.” A’Xiu’s mouth specialized in causing trouble. He ran all the way back to the flower garden, clutching his chest and panting: “Women just can’t hear the truth. Changing the soup but not the medicine, new bottle with old wine – does it work?” Thinking of the principle that honest advice sounds harsh, he shook his head again and crouched by the carp pond, throwing stones for amusement.

Just as he was wondering, he suddenly heard a splash from the carp pond, as if someone had fallen from the surrounding wall into the pool water. A’Xiu was shocked: “Who is it?” He quickly looked up and saw a human figure climb wetly out of the water and walk away with a limp.

A’Xiu said in shock: “Has a thief come?” The Yang family was a Grand Scholar’s residence with its own guards on watch, but after waiting for a long while, no one appeared to investigate. He hurriedly took out a flute from around his neck and carefully put it in his mouth before following cautiously. This flute was given to him by father, called a “Five-Li Flute.” In normal times, if he encountered danger, he only needed to blow it vigorously and rescue would immediately arrive. Last night he had tried it and indeed summoned a black-clothed man. Though not very effective, it was still better than a child like himself. With hungry ghosts attacking from outside the city, all kinds of strange things could happen. A’Xiu was frightened in his heart. Just as he was patrolling everywhere, he suddenly saw wet footprints on the ground. His heart jumped: “Found them!” The footprints on the ground led all the way toward uncle’s side room – something strange was going on. Just as he was wondering, he suddenly heard the sound of splashing water – there seemed to be someone hiding in uncle’s room.

A’Xiu shivered slightly and quickly crouched down to peek through the door crack. Suddenly he saw long black hair hanging down with a few water droplets. A’Xiu was greatly shocked and thought: “A woman?” There was indeed a woman hiding in uncle’s room. Peering through the door crack, he saw a pair of snow-white lotus arms, crystal clear like jade, combing and washing along the wet hair. A’Xiu’s heart pounded, and he pushed the door crack open a bit more. Just at this moment, the woman raised her head, revealing half her profile – she looked like a great beauty!

A’Xiu was overjoyed and thought: “Great! So uncle has been secretly keeping a girl, and I’ve discovered it.” Looking at uncle, whether she was a beautiful official’s daughter or a servant girl, countless women up and down loved him, yet he always laughed and played the fool, never loosening his tongue. Turns out he had already hidden a beauty in a golden house – who knows, maybe he had already fathered several children. A’Xiu crouched and secretly watched, seeing the beautiful woman before him had a delicate nose bridge, fair skin, and a pair of bright, spirited eyes. Just this profile alone would make Auntie Fang and Auntie Juan feel ashamed of themselves, let alone the likes of Shulin and Shuyi – they would probably want to commit suicide. “What is lost in the east may be gained in the west.” Though he hadn’t seen Auntie Fang changing clothes earlier, now he was watching auntie bathing naked – this was called “when the old man lost his horse, how could one know it wasn’t a blessing”?

Just as he was excited, he suddenly slipped and bumped the door open. With an “ah” scream, he fell to the ground. A’Xiu was exposed, and immediately a surprised “eh” came from the room. He saw a pair of fair jade feet walk over and stop in front of him. A’Xiu stared blankly and said in shock: “Such big feet…” Before he finished speaking, the jade feet lifted high and stepped on his face, saying indifferently: “Not only big, but quite smelly too.”

A’Xiu found this voice very familiar. He looked up quickly and was shocked to see the beautiful woman had disappeared, replaced by Second Master Yang Shaoqi. He couldn’t help screaming in terror: “I’ve seen a ghost!” Yang Shaoqi grabbed him and said grimly: “At such a young age, not learning good things! Peeping at bathing is bad enough, but actually peeping at a man bathing? Have you lost your mind?” A’Xiu cried loudly: “I didn’t know! I thought it was a beautiful sister!” “Get lost!” Yang Shaoqi threw A’Xiu out the door with both hands.

Seeing uncle bare-chested in the room, his figure outstanding like a white stripe in the waves, no wonder A’Xiu had mistaken him. Seeing there was no beautiful auntie, A’Xiu naturally felt dejected. He snuck back from outside and lay on uncle’s bed, sighing: “Uncle, where did you go last night? Why did you jump down from the wall like a thief?” Yang Shaoqi yawned: “What else could I do? Could I have barged through the front door?” Uncle had always been mama’s precious darling – if she didn’t see him for even a moment, she would be restless. Even when he was right there, she had to know his whereabouts. So in his daily comings and goings, he often had to climb walls and burrow through holes like a rat.

Yang Shaoqi sighed and picked up a dry cloth to wipe his upper body, then carelessly tied up his hair and put on an old robe. Though it was just old clothes and worn pants, he still looked spirited and displayed a charming demeanor.

The Yang family brothers each had their strengths. The eldest son Yang Suguan, though also handsome, had come from Shaolin and had an imposing physique with naturally kingly bearing – his glances carried an inherent dignity. In comparison, the second son Shaoqi lacked this official authority but had more Jiangnan literary grace. With his natural appearance, without any adornment, he still looked radiant and spirited, even surpassing his elder brother. A’Xiu stared blankly and suddenly said: “Uncle, I really envy you.” Yang Shaoqi was surprised: “What do you envy about me?” A’Xiu sighed: “You’re so handsome, no wonder you can play with women every day.” Yang Shaoqi’s face turned serious: “Nonsense! Who have I been playing with?” A’Xiu said: “Still saying you haven’t? Mama Zhang, Auntie Zhou, Sister-in-law Li… which one isn’t your lover?”

Yang Shaoqi was easygoing by nature and usually put on no airs. The maids and servants in the mansion were mostly friendly with him. From front courtyard to back kitchen, from east wing to west wing, he had people everywhere who often came to pass information and report news. Yang Shaoqi laughed heartily and admitted it this time, searching under the bed for a pair of black, smelly old socks and putting them on his white feet. He said: “Didn’t you go lantern-carrying last night? Did you have fun?” A’Xiu sighed: “I encountered ghosts.” Yang Shaoqi was surprised: “Ghosts?” A’Xiu looked up to heaven and sighed: “Ah, even if I told you, you wouldn’t believe it. Anyway, we’re facing great disaster…”

Just as he was feeling emotional, he heard uncle ponder: “You’re talking about the hungry ghosts attacking, right?” Rarely meeting someone who understood, A’Xiu was overjoyed: “Uncle knows too! When I tell others, they all think I’m crazy.” Yang Shaoqi nodded: “Right, the court has suppressed the news, telling outsiders it’s just military exercises, so naturally no one believes you.” As he spoke, he solemnly warned: “Be careful. The troops have all gathered west of the city. To prevent public panic, the court has strictly forbidden news from leaking. If you keep shouting about it everywhere, be careful they arrest you.” A’Xiu frowned: “Why suppress the news?” Yang Shaoqi sighed: “What else could they do? Release the news and let the people panic and flee everywhere?” There are fools everywhere in the world – upon hearing of great disaster, they would scare themselves to death before the hungry ghosts even arrived.

A’Xiu thought this made sense and hurriedly said: “Uncle, never mind those fools, but what about our family? Should we flee or not?” Yang Shaoqi shrugged: “Silly boy, even the Emperor hasn’t fled – what are we fleeing from?” A’Xiu was stunned: “What? The Emperor… the Emperor isn’t worried?” Yang Shaoqi said: “What should he worry about? Is he short of troops and generals, or lacking rice and grain? Tell me.” A’Xiu muttered thoughtfully and suddenly exclaimed: “Right! With Uncle Wu there, what’s he worried about?” He had seen with his own eyes Uncle Wu deploying troops into the city. With just a small demonstration of skill, he had suppressed the hungry ghost offensive. If this group wanted to break into Beijing, it wouldn’t be so easy.

Thinking of the hungry ghosts outside the city, A’Xiu felt somewhat sympathetic and asked in a low voice: “Uncle, what do those hungry ghosts want to do? Why are they all crowding at the city gates?” Yang Shaoqi said indifferently: “You’d have to ask your father about that – how could you ask me?”

A’Xiu suddenly had an ominous feeling and hurriedly said: “Uncle, my father… does he know about this?” Yang Shaoqi said: “Of course. What kind of person is your father? How could he not know about this? Anyway, set your mind completely at ease. With him presiding over the capital, everyone will work who should work and study who should study – everything will proceed as normal.” A’Xiu screamed: “I knew it! He’s always causing trouble!” The court had what was called “Pressure Wu and Scholar Yang” – “Pressure Wu” naturally referred to “Grand Commander of the Zhengtong Army” Wu Dingyuan, while “Scholar Yang” was “Grand Scholar of Zhongji Hall” Yang Suguan. These two ministers were young and capable, both pillars of the state. With them managing the situation, no matter how many hungry ghosts were outside the city, the court would surely be able to weather the crisis and smoothly overcome the disaster.

The people would be safe, but A’Xiu would be in trouble. Thinking that afternoon classes would proceed as normal and he would have to hand in his calligraphy practice book, when Teacher Meng flew into a rage, would he still have a way to live? A’Xiu’s face turned iron blue. He hurriedly raised his hand to touch his forehead, saying in a trembling voice: “Uncle… I… I think I’m sick. Quickly feel my forehead – it’s so hot…” Just as he was burning up, Yang Shaoqi was already yawning continuously: “Don’t make noise. Uncle didn’t sleep all night… I still have to go to the office this afternoon, need to sleep for a while first.” He rolled up in the cotton quilt, about to sleep soundly, when he heard A’Xiu ask: “If Shuqin comes later, should I wake you?” Yang Shaoqi had already closed his eyes to rest, but hearing these words, his eyes opened wide in shock: “What? Has the Yu family come?” A’Xiu said lazily: “Who knows? I just got home.”

The Yang family’s old lady was surnamed Yu, and her maternal relatives were numerous – big uncles, little uncles, aunts, and cousins too many to count. They often brought their daughters to visit, and every encounter would at best cost money to avoid disaster, at worst result in loss of both person and wealth – most unbearable. Yang Shaoqi became frightened and said in a trembling voice: “No way, I… I have to find another place to sleep. Your mother… is your mother’s place empty?” Yang Shaoqi had always been casual by nature, but now he actually wanted to sleep in sister-in-law’s bed – truly without proper respect. A’Xiu was also someone who slept anywhere, so he didn’t mind and said: “Uncle, let me tell you – someone’s already sleeping in mama’s bed.” Yang Shaoqi was shocked: “What? Someone’s in sister-in-law’s bed?” He didn’t forget to whisper in his ear: “Man or woman?” A’Xiu said angrily: “A neither-man-nor-woman demon!” Hearing this, even the brilliant Yang Shaoqi couldn’t help laughing in bewilderment: “What? Has Chief Steward Fang from the Eastern Depot come to our house?” A’Xiu cursed: “It’s not a eunuch! That demon is a woman disguised as a man.” “Woman disguised as a man?” Yang Shaoqi’s eyes turned slightly, and he was immediately overjoyed: “Great! Qiong Fang has come!” A’Xiu exclaimed: “Uncle, you’re quite capable – how did you guess?” Yang Shaoqi laughed: “Do you think uncle’s scholarly achievements were bought? How many Hua Mulans are there in the capital that I couldn’t guess?” He jumped up and shouted: “When the Purple Master visits the mansion, how can we not meet? Come! Let’s go watch the excitement!” A’Xiu exclaimed in surprise. Not expecting to have persuaded uncle, he followed along with a grin, heading straight for the carp pond.

The Yang mansion had many people – about a hundred bustling about – but the entrance was cold and quiet. Only one person paced back and forth, lost in thought like a tide – it was Lu Yun, trapped in his worries again. Separated by just a wall, inside were Qianxi, A’Xiu, Yang Shaoqi, the Grand Lady, and of course that “Yang Suguan.” Lu Yun paced with hands behind his back, his heart in extreme turmoil. He wanted to go in to see Gu Qianxi, but feared seeing Yang Suguan – he couldn’t make up his mind after several attempts.

Since learning the identity of the “Great Shopkeeper,” Lu Yun had long wanted to find Yang Suguan to get to the bottom of things. For Liu Angtian, for the chaotic political situation, he wanted the Yang Doctor of old to personally explain a few things. Even if both sides disagreed and came to blows, Lu Yun wasn’t afraid – he was prepared to die under the “Divine Sword Master’s” blade. As a scholar, he only sought to have no shame in his heart. If the results were unsatisfactory, there was no need for regret. After all, he had done his best. As for righteous paths declining and black and white being reversed, he couldn’t manage that. After all, this was Heaven’s will – who could help it? Lu Yun was always like this – even if there was a dead end ahead, he would charge straight through, and even Heaven couldn’t stop him. But the leader of the “Righteous Heroes” wouldn’t let him act so recklessly, so he arranged a clever plan to let him infiltrate the Yang family and succeed smoothly.

That was Gu Qianxi. In the “Righteous Heroes” leader’s view, if Lu Yun was Fan Li, then Gu Qianxi was that Xi Shi. To approach King Fuchai of Wu and assassinate him, she was naturally Lu Yun’s greatest asset. But the “Righteous Heroes” leader miscalculated one thing – Gu Qianxi was not only Yang Suguan’s weak point, but also Lu Yun’s hidden danger. Regardless of whether Yang Suguan was extremely evil, regardless of whether Lu Yun was determined to assassinate him, just seeing that he was Gu Qianxi’s husband made things extremely difficult. Even if Lu Yun could truly meet with Gu Qianxi, penetrate layers of defenses and attack the “Divine Sword Master,” as long as Gu Qianxi showed the slightest reluctance, Lu Yun would hesitate and waver repeatedly when the moment came.

With Angry Cang’s armies approaching the city, for the sake of the greater good, Lu Yun could no longer stay out of it. But how could he not consider Gu Qianxi? What should he do? Could he really discuss this matter with Gu Qianxi?

Just as he was struggling, suddenly a black shadow flashed across the rooftop opposite, moving at an extraordinarily fast pace. Lu Yun’s heart tensed. Seeing the black shadow dart into the back alley, fearing it might harm A’Xiu, he hurriedly gave chase. Before he could call out a warning, he saw the black shadow slow down. The figure wore black clothes and carried a strange weapon in hand – an iron pipa. Lu Yun slightly awakened and thought: “Zhenguo Iron Guard.” Last night at Wanfu Tower, he had encountered a large group of black-clothed people, including masters like Jin Lingshuang and Tu Lingxin. He hadn’t expected to encounter another one in broad daylight.

Lu Yun relaxed, seeing this person was Yang Suguan’s subordinate and probably wouldn’t harm A’Xiu without reason. He hid nearby, planning to understand this person’s intentions. The newcomer hugged his iron pipa and leaned against the wall as if resting. Seeing his legs relaxed with all his weight on his back, not using any effort himself, Lu Yun secretly praised: “What an excellent Zhenguo Iron Guard – truly no weak soldiers under a strong general.”

In recent years, Lu Yun had studied martial arts and his knowledge had greatly advanced. Seeing this person’s stance, he knew he was extremely good at managing his center of gravity – this was the posture of a first-class master that ordinary people couldn’t learn even if they tried. Similarly, if he wanted to deliberately hide it, he probably couldn’t conceal it either. Just as he was watching, he heard the black-clothed person sob and cry softly: “Heaven, my life is so bitter…” Lu Yun was slightly puzzled. The “Zhenguo Iron Guards” were all bloodthirsty killers, all tigers and leopards – who would have thought there would be someone crying in a dark alley, lamenting their difficult fate?

Just as he was wondering, he heard the black-clothed person sob again: “I’m so unlucky… first I lost the magic blade, then I lost track of the young master… now the Fourth Leader will never forgive me…” As he spoke, he took out a rope, hung one end on a nearby tree branch, put the other end around his neck, then climbed up the wall. Looking down, he was about to jump and hang himself. Lu Yun’s heart jumped. Just as he was about to rush forward to rescue him, he thought again and smiled slightly: “This is troublesome.”

The black-clothed person hanged himself and was dying when he suddenly made a loud fart sound. Then he scratched his back, looking somewhat busy. Seeing this black-clothed person with the rope around his neck, hanging from the tree branch, feet swaying in the wind – if an ordinary person were in this situation, they would surely die. But his martial arts were profound, and he must know turtle breathing and breath regulation techniques. To die by hanging would probably be quite difficult. Sure enough, after waiting for a long time and seeing he was slow to die, he became somewhat impatient and jumped down, crying loudly: “What to do? I can’t even die!”

Since he was crying with tears streaming down his face, he took off his face mask to blow his nose, not forgetting to spit on the ground. This person had a naturally bitter face with downturned mouth corners and drooping eyebrows, with a somewhat foolish air. Lu Yun’s mind turned slightly and he understood: “Right, that night in Yangzhou, the one escorting that strange blade was him.” This black-clothed person claimed to have lost the “magic blade,” which reminded Lu Yun of half a month ago when he headed north from Yangzhou dock. At that time, he had seen a group escorting a strange blade onto a ship, and the leader carried an iron pipa – wasn’t that this person?

That night, various forces gathered. First the magic blade boarded the ship, then Timur Mieli caused havoc at the dock, and finally Wu Chongqing took advantage of the chaos to steal the magic blade. This led to the later great battle at Wanfu Tower. People in the world judge by success or failure. Wu Chongqing’s desperate risk-taking and theft of the magic blade showed the bold spirit of a young hero that shook the heavens. But this poor fellow became the victim – besides hiding in dark alleys feeling sorry for himself, what else could he do?

Just as he was watching, he suddenly heard laughter from outside the alley. Lu Yun looked carefully and saw a group of maids carrying vegetable baskets heading toward the Yang mansion. Hearing them chatting and laughing all the way, they must be Yang family people. Lu Yun feared meeting acquaintances and quickly pressed against the wall to hide.

“Sigh, those Yu family relatives are coming today. I think Second Master will have to flee again.” “Who told that Shuqin to love him desperately? If he doesn’t run, won’t he be devoured alive?” “Isn’t it because he flirted with her first? Not like the Grand Master, naturally proper – the prettier the woman, the less he pays attention to them…” Lu Yun listened for a while and understood that “Second Master” was Yang Shaoqi and “Grand Master” must be Yang Suguan. He heard another maid sigh: “Sisters, does Second Master have someone he fancies outside? The Old Lady has asked several times, but he just won’t say…” Another maid laughed: “Don’t worry, he has no woman outside, but he’s raising a young one at home – be careful it comes to light!” In the midst of delicate laughter and playfulness, another person pondered: “I think Second Master has no woman outside, but Grand Master is hard to say…”

The Yang family brothers became targets of romantic gossip with endless talk. Lu Yun listened with fascination, hoping they would chat about Gu Qianxi, but the women had already turned into the alley. Suddenly seeing a person in black clothes carrying a pipa, looking extremely strange, they immediately let out a scream: “Aiyal” Lu Yun’s heart jumped and he quickly hid to watch, but saw the maids standing there perfectly fine while that black-clothed strange guest sat on the ground looking shocked – the scream had come from his mouth.

Lu Yun was slightly puzzled, not knowing why this was so, when he heard a maid shout loudly: “Another one popped up! Squatting here in broad daylight! Speak! What are you doing here?”

“By… by imperial decree…” The black-clothed strange guest stammered: “This subordinate… got tired from walking and wanted to rest here…” The maids all scolded together: “Rest? If you want to rest, can’t you go rest in the abandoned courtyard? Coming out in broad daylight, aren’t you afraid of scaring the neighbors?” The black-clothed strange guest said tremblingly: “I… I forgot…” A maid shouted: “You forget everything except eating! Move aside! We need to pass!”

The black-clothed strange guest was scolded but didn’t dare talk back, only pressed tightly against the wall to let the maids pass. The alley was extremely narrow, only wide enough for one person. Though the black-clothed strange guest had pressed against the wall, he would still touch their bodies. The maids struggled to squeeze through several times, feeling that going face-forward wouldn’t work and going backward was even worse. They couldn’t help stopping and said angrily: “Here we go again! Here we go again! Why is it that every time we buy vegetables and go home, you Imperial Guards just happen to come rest in the narrow alley? You’re clearly trying to take advantage of us!” The black-clothed person panicked: “This humble one… this humble one is not an Imperial Guard, this humble one is a Brocade Guard…” Hearing this explanation, the maids became even angrier: “Don’t care! As long as you’re not from the Eastern Depot, you’re all perverts! What’s your surname and name? Report it!”

“By imperial decree!” The black-clothed strange guest perked up, clicked his boots together and shouted: “This subordinate is Shuai Jinteng! Seat number twenty-three!” So this black-clothed strange guest was called “Shuai Jinteng” and had a seat number. The maids didn’t care who was who. After hearing this, they all sneered coldly: “Shuai Jinteng! We’ve noted your name! Number one pervert, molesting maids in broad daylight – don’t blame us for reporting you to the steward.” Shuai Jinteng was shocked: “Misunderstanding, misunderstanding… The young master was kidnapped, and I’ve been searching for him all night…” “What?” The maids were greatly shocked: “Young Master Shenxiu was kidnapped?”

Just as they were about to inquire further, they heard shouting from deep in the alley: “Hungry ghosts are coming! Ten thousand Buddhas ablaze!” This voice was clearly A’Xiu’s. Before the words finished, they heard a servant scream: “Steward Cai! Young Master Shenxiu is causing trouble again!” Noisy sounds came continuously. The black-clothed strange guest couldn’t help exclaiming: “The young master has returned?” In his great joy, he danced with hands and feet. The maids were furious: “Who was kidnapped? Using false pretenses to take advantage of women – everyone attack!”

They picked up their vegetable baskets and kicked and beat. That “Shuai Jinteng” didn’t dare fight back, only protecting his head and face, groaning painfully – looking utterly pathetic. Passersby who saw this all stopped to laugh, taking him for a fool. Since encountering the “Zhenguo Iron Guards,” everyone had been fierce, brave, and disciplined. He hadn’t expected there to be such a strange person. Lu Yun felt somewhat amused. He watched Shuai Jinteng’s pitiful state for a long while, then gradually stopped smiling and slowly developed some admiration.

This Shuai Jinteng was no ordinary person. He had a deep chest and straight back, his energy condensed like a mountain, and the iron pipa in his hand was a rare exotic weapon. Once he made a move, not only would these few maids be no match, but even if all the pedestrians on the street joined forces to attack, he could kill them all clean in moments. But no matter how high his martial arts, he never thought of fighting back. Even in his difficult situation, he only smiled bitterly and played the fool. Without thinking, one could know this person must believe in something that made him willingly endure humiliation. Lu Yun took a deep breath and thought: “This… this is a Zhenguo Iron Guard?”

The maids scolded and beat for a long time before finally venting their anger and leaving reluctantly. Shuai Jinteng also breathed a sigh of relief and laughed: “So the young master is safe – I finally haven’t failed in my mission.” Just as he was rejoicing, someone patted his shoulder. Shuai Jinteng was greatly shocked. With his high martial arts, there were only three or four people in the world who could approach his back silently. Seeing this person suddenly appear behind him – it wasn’t the iron foot’s fierce kick, nor the iron hand’s ice cold touch, but a gentle pat – Shuai Jinteng’s heart was greatly pleased and he immediately shouted: “By imperial decree!”

He clicked his boots together, jumped high in the air, turned around mid-flight and said loudly: “Your humble servant Shuai Jinteng, seat number twenty-three! Pays respects to the Great Shopkeeper!”

As his body fell from the air, he was about to kowtow smoothly but was stopped by someone’s hand: “Brother, I’m not the Great Shopkeeper – you’ve mistaken me for someone else.” Shuai Jinteng exclaimed and looked up quickly, seeing a person standing before him wearing a cloth robe with a face marked by wind and frost – very different from the “Great Shopkeeper’s” dignified bearing. The newcomer was naturally Lu Yun. Seeing Shuai Jinteng immediately kowtow upon first meeting, he quickly stopped him, unwilling to receive such a grand ceremony without reason.

But Shuai Jinteng looked completely bewildered: “You… you’re not the Great Shopkeeper? Then… then who are you?” Lu Yun didn’t want to reveal his real name and casually said: “I am an idle person.” Shuai Jinteng was surprised: “A virtuous person?” Lu Yun said: “Lost my position – that’s one idle; no family or home – that’s another idle; cut off from the world – that’s a third idle. After friends die and companions scatter, that’s truly being idle to the point of distraction.”

“When idle, there’s no ease; in the end, everything becomes empty. Name is empty, love is empty, the four walls are bare and the nest is empty too.” But none of that mattered anymore. “Beyond the wall there are you” – having Qianxi there made one very happy. Seeing the other’s open-minded and unrestrained bearing, with a breadth of mind far beyond ordinary people, Shuai Jinteng couldn’t help exclaiming. Suddenly he grew bold and reached out to feel Lu Yun’s face. Lu Yun asked puzzledly: “Brother, what are you doing?”

It was rumored that the Great Shopkeeper often disguised himself and traveled incognito, carrying several human skin masks on his body – could this be to test him? Shuai Jinteng muttered and pondered, then suddenly his eyes turned and he saw something inside Lu Yun’s robe. He couldn’t help being greatly shocked: “Moposa Palace Asura King Token!” His body bounced into the air and he shouted: “The six realms clamor without returning to one heart!” “The three worlds rise in chaos with various opinions!” Before the words finished, he had already prostrated on the ground, shouting: “Subordinate Shuai Jinteng pays respects to the Great Shopkeeper’s sacred countenance!” After this long speech, he stretched out his limbs in complete prostration and then didn’t move.

Seeing a person collapsed by the roadside, lying motionless like a corpse, the surrounding people gathered more and more, all pointing and talking. Lu Yun didn’t know if this person was sick or crazy, and felt somewhat embarrassed, saying: “Brother, please get up.” He reached out to support him, planning to help him up. But Shuai Jinteng’s martial arts were formidable – when prostrate, his muscles relaxed and his center of gravity was completely lost, making his body immediately more than ten times heavier. To force him up would require heavy force, inevitably causing him internal injuries. Lu Yun was unfamiliar with this person and naturally didn’t want to use force, so he pleaded: “Brother, please get up and talk. I cannot accept your grand ceremony.” After saying this several times with no response, Lu Yun was both annoyed and amused, and could only imitate his tone: “There is a decree! Commanding you – to stand up!”

“Obeying – the decree!” Shuai Jinteng seemed to have taken a mighty pill and said loudly: “Your humble servant Shuai Jinteng! Seat number twenty-three! Obeying orders to stand up!” After a shout, his muscles tightened, his palms pressed slightly against the ground, and without bending waist or knees, his body stood straight up like a stiff corpse. The surrounding people all cried out in shock at the sight, and several children were so frightened they burst into tears.

Having finally encountered a “Zhenguo Iron Guard,” who would have thought he was mentally unclear? Lu Yun knew this place wasn’t suitable for lingering, so he pulled Shuai Jinteng close and whispered: “Let’s go inside to talk.” The two slipped into the back alley, with Shuai Jinteng following step by step with utmost respect, apparently truly taking Lu Yun for the “Great Shopkeeper.” Having finally avoided the crowds, Lu Yun stopped and asked: “From what you said, your surname is Shuai and given name Jinteng?”

“This subordinate is Shuai Jinteng!” With a snap, Shuai Jinteng stood at attention with chest out, heels together, and roared: “Seat number twenty…” Lu Yun was a qi practitioner with hearing far more sensitive than ordinary people, and quickly said: “I know, seat number twenty-three. Please speak more quietly.” Shuai Jinteng clicked his boots together and bellowed: “Obeying…” Just as he was about to jump up, Lu Yun grabbed him and sighed: “Please just stand still and don’t move.” Upon hearing this, Shuai Jinteng’s eyes widened and he stood motionless like a stone Buddha, which again left Lu Yun speechless.

“This worthy brother…” Lu Yun called several times, but Shuai Jinteng kept his eyes wide open, unmoving as a mountain, as if someone had sealed his pressure points. Lu Yun had no choice but to sigh: “There is a decree – you may move now.” Shuai Jinteng had been waiting for this and immediately clicked his knees together with a “snap” and shouted: “The six realms clamor without returning to one heart! The three worlds rise in chaos with various opinions!” Before finishing his words, he prostrated on the ground again, shouting: “When the Asura King descends, heaven and earth fall silent! This subordinate Shuai Jinteng kowtows to the Great Shopkeeper’s sacred countenance! Merit! Merit! Inconceivable great merit!”

Seeing him prostrate on the ground, his head touching the earth, he picked up his iron pipa and began playing music, looking up and singing: “Great Shopkeeper, truly a sage, judging the three realms and observing the human world, never idle in the six paths of reincarnation… controlling life and death, determining crimes, treating all things equally in the free heaven…” Lu Yun laughed speechlessly. This iron pipa seemed to be an exotic weapon, but its wonderful uses were endless. This melody was as smooth as pearls and jade. Though the flattery flowed like a tide, it was actually quite pleasant to hear. The “Great Shopkeeper” would surely be delighted and elated upon hearing it.

Lu Yun suppressed his laughter and patiently waited for this person to finish singing. Suddenly his mind stirred: “Wait, judging the three realms, controlling the six paths of reincarnation… controlling life and death and crimes… isn’t this…” “I establish worldly aspirations that must reach the supreme path!” In an instant, Lu Yun’s eyes widened with a feeling of dread. After a long, long time, the song finally ended and Shuai Jinteng finished singing. He lowered his head bashfully: “Great Shopkeeper, this humble one spent seven days and nights composing this song especially for you. Do you like it?” Seeing his expectant face, Lu Yun couldn’t bear to disappoint him and coughed a few times: “It’s… quite good…” Shuai Jinteng was overjoyed: “You really like it? Then this humble one still has the second half that I haven’t sung.” He strummed the iron pipa, about to sing loudly again, when Lu Yun was startled and quickly stopped him: “When there’s time… when there’s time we’ll listen again.”

Just as he was about to say more, Shuai Jinteng’s expression changed and he stood solemnly motionless. Lu Yun followed his gaze and saw him looking at his own chest, where golden light flickered – wasn’t that the golden token Hu Mei’er had sent? Lu Yun took a deep breath, finally understanding why this person had mistaken him – it was because of this token. The token in Lu Yun’s hand wasn’t stolen but personally given by Hu Mei’er, enclosed in an official document signed “Ling Wu Xuan Zhi.” At the time, she claimed to be acting on Yang Suguan’s orders to deliver it to Lu Yun. He had thought it was for bribery, but since this morning, holding this golden token, wherever he went and whoever he met, everything went smoothly – clearly this golden token had great origins and was no ordinary object.

Lu Yun took a deep breath. Wanting to investigate the origins of this object, he took out the golden token from his chest: “Brother Shuai, I have something to ask – what exactly is this token…” The eagle spread its wings prominently, and Shuai Jinteng was again greatly shocked, crying out: “Moposa Palace Asura King Token!” He trembled and prostrated, not daring to speak or move. Lu Yun nodded, already knowing the Righteous Heroes leader spoke the truth – Yang Suguan indeed called himself “Asura King,” not mere fabrication. Wanting to explore more inside information, he crouched down and whispered in his ear: “Brother, what function does this golden precious token have? Do you know?” Shuai Jinteng was somewhat afraid and didn’t dare speak. Lu Yun crouched down and patted his back, saying softly: “Don’t be afraid, I’m just testing you. Tell me, what function does this token have?”

Shuai Jinteng said in a low voice: “The Moposa Palace Asura King Token says: ‘Those who see my token see my person; those who see my person must enter my gates.'” Lu Yun pondered: “‘Must enter my gates’? What does this mean?” Shuai Jinteng prostrated with his head touching the ground: “Burning the crown to make vows, showing sincere loyalty.” Lu Yun pondered slightly. The so-called “burning the crown to make vows” referred to the incense scars on monks’ heads. Buddhist practitioners, to show their devotion to Buddha, often mutilated their bodies, either burning incense scars or setting fire to a finger. After the Mongol invasion, this practice became even more intense, with all monks and nuns in the world without exception. It seemed the “Zhenguo Iron Guards” imitated this practice, using brand marks on their bodies as oaths of initiation.

Lu Yun repeatedly examined the golden precious token in his hand. The front of the token was carved with an eagle with fully spread wings, while the back was inscribed with the four large seal characters “Zhenguo Iron Guard.” Looking at this shape and appearance, wasn’t it exactly the same as the marks on Wu Chongqing’s and Hu Mei’er’s bodies?

Lu Yun was greatly shocked. Only now did he understand where those black-clothed people’s brand marks came from. Whether it was Wu Chongqing or Hu Mei’er, when they joined and made their vows, they had all been burned with scars by this token. From this perspective, this seal symbolized the “Great Shopkeeper’s” supreme authority and was actually the fundamental seal of the “Zhenguo Iron Guards”! “Those who see my token see my person; those who see my person must enter my gates.” This token was of utmost importance and could command all “Zhenguo Iron Guards” under heaven. Why then did Hu Mei’er give it to him? Could it be she had stolen it? But at the time, judging from her words, she was full of dissatisfaction with him. If she had known the object she was delivering was this “Asura King Token,” she should have given many hints – how could she have cursed him? Lu Yun was stunned for a while and thought: “Could it be… she also didn’t know there was this token hidden in the envelope?”

Lu Yun found it increasingly strange and wanted to ask for clarification. He held up the golden token and asked: “Brother Shuai, you just said this token is…” Shuai Jinteng trembled and kowtowed, saying: “Moposa Palace Asura King Token.” Lu Yun had browsed Buddhist scriptures and knew this “Asura King” was also a heavenly deity who had once questioned Buddha due to warfare -似神而非神，似人而非人 (like a god but not a god, like a human but not human) – but he didn’t know why Yang Suguan was so fond of this title. Full of doubts, he didn’t know where to begin asking. After contemplating for a long while, he finally said: “Brother Shuai, what is the Asura King?”

Shuai Jinteng raised his hand to his lips and gently made a “shush” sound – it was a gesture for silence. Lu Yun was puzzled and couldn’t help looking around to see if someone was spying nearby, but after looking for a while, he saw no one. He asked the question again, but Shuai Jinteng still didn’t say a word, still pressing his finger to his lips – whether he was playing deaf and mute or was genuinely fearful was unclear. Lu Yun patted his back and said gently: “Don’t be afraid. With me here, no one in the world can hurt you. Quickly tell me, what is the Asura King?” Before he finished speaking, Shuai Jinteng again raised his hand, pointing to his lips and making another “shush” sound.

Lu Yun pondered deeply and suddenly understood, thinking of eight characters: “When the Asura King descends, heaven and earth fall silent.” These were exactly the words Shuai Jinteng had recited when prostrating in worship earlier. “Silence” was a Buddhist realm. Before the Tathagata’s final extinction, he had said: “In this life, I have never spoken a single word.” This was “having no names or forms, establishing no written words” – using wordlessness to overcome words, using silence to break sound, which became the fundamental wonderful truth of the Zen sect. Zen doesn’t establish written words and emphasizes mind-to-mind transmission without relying on speech. Therefore, their Dharma halls were often extraordinarily quiet – from masters and guests above to disciples and workers below, everything maintained silence.

Yang Suguan was the same. He had always spoken very little. Though Lu Yun had known him for long, he had never heard him speak a single sentence of great principles to educate people’s hearts. Also, because he was born handsome, those who didn’t know him often took him for a “romantic court physician” who specialized in rolling around in tender embraces with no great ambition. In reality, this person was resolute and decisive, could be entrusted with orphans, could be given the responsibility of a hundred li territory – this was how he unified the court’s three major factions and became the founder of the “Zhenguo Iron Guards.”

Lu Yun took a deep breath, looking at the “Asura King Token” in his hand, pacing back and forth repeatedly, pondering Yang Suguan’s intentions. Since returning to the capital, everything around him had been unclear – the Righteous Heroes were a mystery, Yang Suguan was a mystery, layer upon layer surrounding him, inevitably making him fall into a fog. Lu Yun raised his head to look at the high wall beside him, his expression becoming solemn. Beyond that high wall was the world of the Yang family’s old and young – not only the Yang Suguan and Yang Shaoqi brothers, but also Gu Qianxi and A’Xiu lived inside. To explore the “Asura King’s” intentions, he could only make a trip inside the house.

Lu Yun took a deep breath and reached out to help Shuai Jinteng up: “There is a decree – please rise.” “Obeying orders!” Shuai Jinteng had been kneeling for a long time and immediately jumped high, clicked his boots together, and stood up again. Lu Yun said: “Brother Shuai, I want to enter the mansion. Can you lead the way?” Shuai Jinteng was slightly puzzled: “Great Shopkeeper, this… this is your home. You… how do you still need this humble one to lead the way?” Lu Yun was also embarrassed, his handsome face reddening as he said in a low voice: “This… I… I’m not quite clear…” Lu Yun was habitually honest and, knowing his answer was inappropriate, still couldn’t fabricate any lies. Fortunately, Shuai Jinteng was simple-minded and immediately had a strange thought: “Right! Worthy of being the Great Shopkeeper – even doesn’t know the way home. He must pass by his home three times daily without entering!” In ancient times, Yu the Great controlled floods and passed by his home three times without entering, not even recognizing his own son. He thought the Great Shopkeeper, for country and people, must pass by his home eight or nine times, living outside directly, which was why he didn’t know the way home.

Just as he was admiring this, he suddenly thought again: “That’s not right – if he’s the Great Shopkeeper, who’s the one usually making tea at home?” After thinking, he suddenly understood: “Ah! A body double! No wonder everyone says the couple’s relationship isn’t good – turns out that one is fake!” The more he thought about it, the more reasonable it seemed. He knew the Great Shopkeeper, for country and people, had entrusted his wife and children to others’ care. He felt both admiration and respect, quickly saying: “Great Shopkeeper, please come this way.” Rarely able to do something for the Great Shopkeeper, Shuai Jinteng felt greatly honored. But after walking a few steps, Lu Yun was still hesitating at the alley entrance. He hurried back anxiously: “Great Shopkeeper, you shouldn’t always be working for country and people – occasionally you should go home to rest. Come quickly.” Lu Yun snapped out of it and quickly said: “Yes… I… I’m coming right now.” Taking a deep breath, he finally stepped into the alley, silently sighing in his heart: “Time passes so quickly. Last time I came to the Yang family, I was only thirty years old.”

When Lu Yun was young, he had also been a guest at the Yang mansion. At that time, the Yang family lived near Daming Gate, and the household head was “Grand Scholar of Zhongji Hall” Yang Yuan. Yang Suguan was merely a Ministry of War secretary, while Lu Yun himself was only in his early thirties, serving as an advisor under Qin Zhonghai. Speaking of it, his second chance encounter with Gu Qianxi had also been at the Yang mansion. How many years had passed? Gu Qianxi had always remained in a large house, separated by just a wall with no chance of meeting. Now he was finally about to break in.

Lu Yun felt somewhat sentimental, his thoughts surging like a tide. Shuai Jinteng secretly observed him and suddenly said: “Great Shopkeeper, you haven’t been home for many years, have you?” Hearing the word “home,” Lu Yun’s heart warmed and his eyes slightly moistened. Shuai Jinteng quickly offered a handkerchief: “Great Shopkeeper, don’t cry. We’ll be there soon.”

Lu Yun came to his senses and quickly wiped his eyes, then coughed a few times to cover up: “Brother Shuai, you… have you been with the Zhenguo Iron Guards for long?” Shuai Jinteng quickly said: “Great Shopkeeper, this humble one cannot bear the title ‘Brother Shuai.’ Please address this humble one by official rank in the future.” Lu Yun coughed: “Your… your official rank, that… that is…” Shuai Jinteng quickly said: “Deputy Commander.” Lu Yun stopped walking in surprise: “Deputy Commander of where?” Shuai Jinteng said bashfully: “Brocade Guard.” This time it was Lu Yun’s turn to cry out in surprise: “What? You… you hold the rank of Brocade Guard Deputy Commander?” Though Shuai Jinteng seemed crazy and foolish, thinking of himself holding high office still made him somewhat proud and shy: “Thanks to the Great Shopkeeper’s promotion.”

In the Jingtai court, there was a saying called “Inner Forbidden, Outer Brocade” – one was the Forbidden Guard Army, the other was the Brocade Guard, both highly visible organizations. At that time, the Brocade Guard Commander was the famous “An Daojing,” a man who smiled while hiding daggers, who could turn with the wind, known as the world’s number one cunning schemer – only thus could he maneuver among various court forces like Liu Angtian and Liu Jing. Who would have thought that ten years later, this “Brocade Guard Deputy Commander” had become a fool who, besides reciting texts and chanting sutras, couldn’t even speak clearly?

Lu Yun was completely bewildered: “Deputy Commander Shuai, you… since you hold such an important position, why don’t you go to the government office to handle official business? Why are you wandering around here?” Shuai Jinteng looked blank: “Government office? What government office?” This question stumped Lu Yun, who had to change his approach: “You… how many people do you manage under you?” Shuai Jinteng was surprised: “Just me alone.” Lu Yun was shocked: “What? Just you alone? You… aren’t you the Brocade Guard Deputy Commander? How do you have no subordinates?” Shuai Jinteng looked puzzled: “Great Shopkeeper… you said the Brocade Guard was wasting public funds and harboring filth, so you cut most of the people. How did you forget again?”

Through the conversation, Lu Yun finally understood the situation – this Shuai Jinteng was an “empty-title deputy commander” who held the position but managed nothing. With him stationed at the Brocade Guard, no matter how many masters or talents the “Brocade Guard” had, it was equivalent to having their pressure points sealed – even if Zhuge Liang came to serve, he probably couldn’t stir up political waves. The “Zhenguo Iron Guards” could rest easy. Ten years of changing fortunes – the Brocade Guard of the past had now become the court’s impoverished household, too shabby to mention.

Seeing Lu Yun contemplating silently, Shuai Jinteng quickly said: “Great Shopkeeper, why aren’t you walking again? Don’t you want to go home anymore?” Lu Yun quickly said: “No… no…” He immediately quickened his pace and headed deeper into the alley. This alley was winding and curved, becoming more gloomy and narrow toward the depths, with high walls on both sides. In the past, Lu Yun had visited the Yang family once, but not this residence. Yang Suguan must have moved here from Daming Gate after his promotion. The Yang family’s former residence had been very orderly with a grand layout, far more impressive than this current mansion – he wondered why Yang Suguan favored this current official residence.

As he wandered in thought, suddenly he saw a mark at the foot of the wall. Bending down to look, it was a fierce bird with raised beak and spread wings, painted in fresh blood, vivid and lifelike – wasn’t this the mark of the “Zhenguo Iron Guards”? Lu Yun’s heart tensed and he stopped again: “Deputy Commander Shuai, what place is behind this wall?” Shuai Jinteng looked blank: “Great Shopkeeper, behind this wall is the abandoned courtyard. Have you forgotten?” Lu Yun was stunned: “Abandoned courtyard?” Shuai Jinteng nodded: “Yes, to guard this place, you withdrew large numbers of troops from the inn and even transferred out your personal Six Jia soldiers. The Fourth Leader advised several times, but you wouldn’t listen.”

Lu Yun found this increasingly strange and simply leaped onto the wall to see for himself. Reaching the top of the wall and looking carefully, he saw behind the wall was a large empty space with withered trees, fallen leaves, and thick snow – a scene of deep winter. This place was truly as Shuai Jinteng said, a genuine “abandoned courtyard.” Except for dead branches and fallen leaves covering the ground, there were no buildings visible – he wondered why Yang Suguan would deploy heavy troops to guard it.

Lu Yun was secretly puzzled. Yang Suguan’s style was steady and he was definitely not one to create mysteries without reason. If this place had no secrets, he would never make a big show of deploying troops to guard it. From this perspective, this courtyard must have something strange about it. Lu Yun pondered for a while, then looked around in all directions. From his elevated position, he could see the entire large residence. The building was spacious and round in shape, while the narrow alley beneath meandered through it, actually cutting the good residence in half – the north side was an empty wasteland with no people, while the south side had curling cooking smoke and flourishing flowers and trees, covered with buildings where the Yang family members must all live.

This large residence had such strange architecture, seeming to secretly conform to some principle of yin-yang and five elements, but he couldn’t understand it clearly. Lu Yun stood blankly on the wall, following the surrounding walls with his gaze. He saw the north and south walls becoming closer together as they approached the alley, and the alley became narrower. At the deepest part of the alley, the two surrounding walls gradually met and actually formed a study. Lu Yun was startled and quickly said: “Deputy Commander Shuai, there’s a house at the bottom of the alley – what place is that?” Shuai Jinteng smiled: “That’s your study.” Lu Yun was stunned: “Study? Why… why build it there?” Shuai Jinteng smiled: “You’ve been away too long. Everyone says that study is used to suppress evil spirits.”

Lu Yun murmured: “Suppress evil spirits…” Looking at this large residence, it was exactly like a Taiji diagram – separated by a wall, the south side was full of life while the north side was deeply silent, as if they were two different realms of yin and yang. He pondered slightly and couldn’t help feeling a chill: “This… is the north side a yin house?” A yin house was a tomb, the dwelling place of the dead. Could this “abandoned courtyard” be the Yang family ancestors’ feng shui burial ground? Was that why outsiders weren’t allowed near? Lu Yun became suspicious. As he stared at that study in a daze, suddenly a cold wind blew into the abandoned courtyard, sweeping away the dead leaves on the ground and faintly revealing something. He strained his eyes to look carefully and couldn’t help exclaiming: “A well?”

Lu Yun was truly stunned. This study was Yang Suguan’s study, but outside the study was an ancient well, positioned exactly in the center of the surrounding wall opposite the study – could the “evil suppression” that Shuai Jinteng mentioned refer to this? Lu Yun muttered to himself, just speculating, when suddenly he heard a child’s shout nearby: “Big Winner! Big Winner!” Lu Yun opened his eyes in shock and also remembered that last night when he met with the “Righteous Heroes,” he had joined hands with Master Lingzhi, Wei Zizhuang, and other famous people to treat a child – A’Xiu’s mischievous little friend “Hu Zhengtang.” It was said this child had snuck into the Yang family’s abandoned courtyard but was inexplicably frightened and became mentally disturbed, going crazy. Hadn’t he fallen into an ancient well?

Lu Yun took a deep breath, finally understanding where he was. Just as he was about to jump down the wall to look at the well clearly, he heard a sharp whistle from the abandoned courtyard, extremely piercing. Lu Yun quickly steadied himself, only to hear barking sounds rising from all directions – all the dogs on the entire street started barking. He covered his ears in pain: “What… what is this sound?” Shuai Jinteng took out a small flute from his waist and smiled: “This is a Five-Li Flute. Only dogs and martial arts masters can hear it.”

Just as they were talking, the whistle became even sharper. Several clapping sounds came from all directions, and several figures flashed from the depths of the abandoned courtyard, moving swiftly – they must be highly skilled martial artists charging toward them. Lu Yun was startled, knowing his position was exposed, and quickly jumped down from the wall, saying in a low voice: “Who are these people?” Shuai Jinteng smiled: “Great Shopkeeper, you’re testing me again. These are the Duty Six Jia, the guardian officers you stationed in the abandoned courtyard.” Lu Yun murmured: “Duty Six Jia? Are they… are their martial arts formidable?” Shuai Jinteng shook his head: “These ‘Six Jia soldiers’ aren’t good at martial arts. In single combat, none of them is a match for this humble servant. But if all six attack together, they could take this humble one’s life within one move.”

Lu Yun was shocked: “Why is this so?” Shuai Jinteng was surprised: “Great Shopkeeper, they were personally trained by you – how can you ask me?” The whistle became more urgent, and there were also figures moving on the rooftops to the south, adjusting positions and pressing toward the back alley. Lu Yun thought: “This is trouble – it looks like there’ll be a hard fight.” Lu Yun had heard “Miss Qi” mention that the “Zhenguo Iron Guards” had six leaders under them, each with their own duties – Yan Ting, Qiong Wuchuan, Gong Zhi, and Lingzhen were all listed among them. As for this “Six Ding Six Jia,” it seemed to be led by Tu Lingxin. If both sides were to fight later, he naturally wasn’t afraid, but infiltrating the Yang mansion would become much more difficult.

Just as he was hesitating, black shadows suddenly appeared on the wall. From all directions, six figures dropped down – three in front, three behind, all with black masks covering their faces, showing only their eyes, completely surrounding him. This group of “Duty Jia soldiers” came extremely fast. Lu Yun wanted to retreat but was already a step too late. Fortunately, Shuai Jinteng was still guarding beside him. Immediately there was a “snap” as he clicked his boots together and said solemnly: “Among the three realms.” Shuai Jinteng gave the code phrase and waited for his companions to respond, but the six people only raised their weapons and circled Lu Yun as if facing a great enemy.

Shuai Jinteng pressed his hand on his iron pipa and angrily said: “Why don’t you give the code phrase? Could you be bandits in disguise?” The inn people liked to wear black masks, hiding their heads and showing their tails. If someone wanted to disguise themselves and sneak in, it would be extremely easy. Seeing the “Duty Six Jia” looking hesitant, Shuai Jinteng angrily said: “Speak quickly! What comes after ‘Among the three realms’?” One of the Jia soldiers coughed slightly and said in a low voice: “Above the six paths.” Shuai Jinteng nodded and said again: “The people come first.” That person answered: “Heaven above.” Shuai Jinteng said happily: “Indeed, they’re our own people.”

“Who’s your own people?” The Duty Six Jia stepped forward simultaneously and shouted angrily: “Speak quickly! Who is that person behind you?” Hearing this, Shuai Jinteng first bowed to Lu Yun, then raised his head and laughed wildly three times. Finally, he raised his index finger and pointed to the sky, not forgetting to snort heavily to show his ferocity. The Jia soldiers were stunned for a long while, not knowing what he was being fierce about. Everyone followed his finger and looked up to the sky, but saw only clear blue sky and white snow on eaves – nothing else. They couldn’t help asking in confusion: “What… what is this for?” “Still don’t understand?” Shuai Jinteng was furious: “He is our inn’s…” Before he could finish speaking, he heard Lu Yun cough: “I… I am Mister Shuai’s friend, wanting to come to the mansion to find some work.”

Shuai Jinteng exclaimed in surprise, not knowing why the “Great Shopkeeper” wanted to hide his identity for no reason. Seeing Lu Yun winking at him repeatedly, he suddenly understood and thought: “Aiyal The Great Shopkeeper wants to travel incognito again!” He quickly changed his words: “Yes, yes, yes, this person wants to come to our inn to seek employment. You let him into the mansion. I’ll take him to see the Fourth Leader later.”

Hearing that someone had come seeking official position, the Duty Six Jia raised their faces with nostrils flaring proudly: “So you’ve come seeking employment? Then we must examine you first. Young man, who recommended you?” Shuai Jinteng pointed to his own head and laughed joyfully: “Me!” The Duty Six Jia sneered coldly, about to mock him, when they saw Shuai Jinteng’s eyes showing killing intent and his expression looking quite unfriendly. They could only grunt reluctantly: “Fine… fine, since someone has recommended you and your background should be clean, what skills do you have? Speak up now.”

Lu Yun said modestly: “You elder brothers flatter me. This humble one has no particular skills, just wants to earn a living.” In his youth, Lu Yun had been proud and arrogant. Whenever seeking employment, he would always write lengthy essays. Now that he was older, he had learned to be polite. He was waiting for the Six Jia soldiers to say some courteous words, but unexpectedly the six men’s faces turned iron blue with fury: “What? Just wanting to earn a living? What do you think our inn is? A place to support you rice buckets and wine sacks?” As they spoke, they surrounded Shuai Jinteng and scolded him in unison:

“Twenty-three! Why did you recommend a useless person? Wanting to hold a position without doing work and put him in your Brocade Guard!” Shuai Jinteng spat and was about to retort when Lu Yun quickly changed his words: “Elder brothers misunderstood. Actually, I’m somewhat literate and my handwriting is still neat enough – I can help with bookkeeping and other tasks.” The Jia soldiers raised their heads even higher and sneered coldly: “So you’re a scribe! Then you’ve come to the wrong place – go find the Sixth Shopkeeper. He needs people who can write. Don’t take up space on our second floor.” Suddenly hearing the name “Sixth Shopkeeper,” Lu Yun couldn’t recall who this person was – it must be either Gong Zhi or Luo Moshi – so he had to change his approach: “Elder brothers don’t know, but actually besides writing, I’ve also learned some martial arts for a few days, and my physical skills are still quite agile.”

“Still quite agile?” The six Jia soldiers laughed wildly in unison: “Boy, saying such words in front of us six brothers, be careful you’ll spill blood.” Shuai Jinteng angrily said: “Insolent! Do you really want to court death?” The six Jia soldiers were startled, then heard one curse: “Who’s courting death? Take this!” A punch struck out toward Shuai Jinteng’s nose bridge. This punch looked slow and weak, ordinary enough. Shuai Jinteng naturally wasn’t afraid and was about to block it when suddenly his knees ached slightly and his armpits went numb – the left and right Jia soldiers had seized the opportunity to strike, already pinning him to the ground.

Lu Yun was shocked. Though Shuai Jinteng wasn’t famous, his martial arts foundation was actually quite deep. Even if he encountered the masters of famous sects, he would have ways to protect himself. Who would have thought that after just one exchange, he would already be defeated and on the ground? Lu Yun didn’t waste words and directly raised his palm to rescue him, reaching toward one Jia soldier’s wrist. That Jia soldier turned his hand to block, but as soon as he touched Lu Yun’s arm, it was like touching a large wheel – involuntarily, he was already spinning in the air. This move contained a cutting turn, exactly the “Orthodox Seventeen” technique. That Jia soldier had lost his center of gravity and was already head-down, feet-up. Lu Yun grabbed Shuai Jinteng and was about to take him away when suddenly strong winds came from all directions – led by that Jia soldier, all six attacked simultaneously.

Lu Yun observed in all directions and listened in all ways, feeling danger simultaneously from front and back, left and right sides, above and below – these people’s timing was coordinated to perfection with almost no flaws. Lu Yun knew he couldn’t avoid it, so he simply didn’t dodge. He planted his stance firmly, opened both palms – one raised toward heaven, the other naturally downward – this was a variation of “Orthodox Seventeen”: “Transform Circle to Square.” The circle is the largest pattern in the world. This palm technique wasn’t merely about borrowing force, but creating circles with squares, establishing shields around oneself. No matter which direction the enemy attacked from, they would first encounter Lu Yun’s arms. Sure enough, there were repeated “ah-ya” sounds as four Jia soldiers were guided by Lu Yun’s subtle force, all flipping once in mid-air before falling to the ground. At this moment, there were several loud “bang” sounds as the two Jia soldiers behind attacked with fists. Lu Yun concentrated his power in his back, and under the counterforce of his internal energy, he instantly bounced the two away, making them crash heavily into the wall.

In one move, Lu Yun had achieved complete victory. Shuai Jinteng cheered excitedly, pointing at the six Jia soldiers and shouting loudly: “Who was insolent? Dare you still boast in the future?” All the Jia soldiers cried out in shock: “Excellent… his internal energy is incredibly deep. Twenty-three, where… where did you find such a master?” “Where did I find him?” Shuai Jinteng smiled coldly, raised his hand to point at the sky, and angrily said: “Understand now!” The six Jia soldiers seemed to understand but didn’t dare make a sound, only standing solemnly by the wall respectfully seeing off the master.

Lu Yun coughed softly. Though his feet had started moving, his gaze still looked toward the six Jia soldiers, thinking: “This… could this be the ‘Six Paths Formation’?” In that lightning-quick moment, Lu Yun had faced the Six Paths for the first time, defeating the six Jia soldiers in one move. Though he seemed to win easily, it wasn’t so. He had been hit twice – in terms of technique, his “Orthodox Seventeen” couldn’t simultaneously defend against the “Six Paths.” If not for his extremely deep internal energy reflecting the enemies back, he would be the one lying on the ground now. “The world’s five great schools – heart, body, qi, technique, momentum.” If his opponents had been Yang Suguan himself, or if the six Jia soldiers had carried swords and weapons, Lu Yun knew in his heart who would win and who would lose.

After this battle, Lu Yun had put aside his contempt and knew the Six Paths Formation was the life’s work of the Heavenly Absolute Divine Monk, profound and wonderful, truly worthy of being Shaolin Temple’s treasure. If he wanted to infiltrate the abandoned courtyard again, he must proceed with extreme caution.

Setting aside this matter, the two continued into the alley. Before long, cooking smoke curled up from the south wall, revealing a door – they had probably reached the back kitchen. Shuai Jinteng pushed the door open to see the kitchen full of people – old servants, pretty maids, people coming and going, very lively. Shuai Jinteng wore black clothes, carried an iron pipa in one hand and a black face mask in the other, looking like an evil spirit. The cooks and maids by the stove saw him but didn’t cry out in alarm – everyone held kitchen knives chopping continuously.

“Deputy Commander Shuai!” A steward walked over with a smile: “Good morning.” Shuai Jinteng pressed his hands tightly against his trouser seams, brought his knees together with a loud sound, was about to shout loudly when he saw all the servants turning to look at him. His face reddened and he said in a low voice: “Good morning, everyone.”

Just as they were talking, they heard several giggles: “The pervert’s back.” Lu Yun glanced sideways to see several maids in the corner covering their mouths and snickering – exactly the girls he’d seen outside the alley earlier. This was the Yang family’s back kitchen where he might encounter acquaintances at any time. Lu Yun was naturally fully alert and dared not slip up. Just as he was being cautious, he suddenly saw several maids whispering with smiling lips and eyes all looking at him. Lu Yun quickly turned his head, only to see an old nanny frantically lowering her head and desperately washing bowls. Lu Yun was greatly shocked, finally realizing something was seriously wrong. Just as he was thinking of slipping away, he heard the steward ask in surprise: “Deputy Commander Shuai, this person is…”

Lu Yun had a distinguished appearance and stood out wherever he went. He was secretly afraid of being recognized. But Shuai Jinteng secretly smiled, knowing these fools were used to seeing the body double and couldn’t recognize the real person when they saw him. He immediately smiled: “This is a newcomer. His martial arts are very high.” Hearing a newcomer had arrived, the maids all exclaimed softly and turned to look. An old nanny looked sideways at Lu Yun, reached out to pat his back and smiled: “Another new guard has come? I’m Mama Zhang. What’s your honored surname, elder brother?”

Shuai Jinteng was a yellow-toothed, rat-faced fellow who was usually discriminated against by the maids and nannies. Now seeing the “Great Shopkeeper” widely welcomed, he naturally sighed inwardly: “Still can’t see? He is the Great Shop…” Suddenly hearing Lu Yun cough softly, he knew he had misspoken and quickly changed his words: “His surname is ‘Da’ (Great).”

The steward looked blank: “Surname ‘Da’? That’s quite a rare surname. How should we address him?” Shuai Jinteng’s ancestors were surnamed “Shi” but after Emperor Wu of Jin chopped them with a sword, they changed to “Shuai.” This surname was already uncommon, but now he’d created another strange surname? Just as he was stammering, “Mama Zhang” was already laughing: “How to address him? Of course ‘Da Ge’ (Big Brother)!” “Big Brother!” The maids laughed together and all gathered around. Seeing the women were charming and lovely with friendly expressions, Lu Yun couldn’t be too cold-faced either. Just as he was thinking of greeting them one by one, he suddenly heard an elegant voice from the corner laughing: “Which big brother has come? Look how happy you all are?” This voice didn’t roll the tongue much and carried a hint of Yangzhou accent. To Lu Yun’s ears, it was like a thunderbolt from a clear sky.

“Good morning, Young Mistress.” All the maids turned to bow respectfully. Shuai Jinteng turned to look and saw a woman lifting the door curtain – it was Gu Qianxi arriving. Lu Yun was extremely flustered. Afraid she would see him, he hurriedly turned around to avoid her. In his haste to dodge, he actually knocked over bowls and chopsticks. With a clang, seeing the bowls and chopsticks about to fall and shatter, Shuai Jinteng immediately caught them in mid-air, then clicked his boots together with a loud sound, jumped up and roared: “By – imperial decree! This subordinate Shuai Jinteng, seat number twenty-three, pays respects to…”

Just as he was about to kowtow, there was a plate of hot steamed buns in front of him, and he heard Gu Qianxi ask: “Have you had breakfast?” Shuai Jinteng said frantically: “Madam, please don’t be polite, we… we have official duties…” Gu Qianxi said: “Court officials also need to eat.” The buns were forcefully offered. Shuai Jinteng couldn’t very well refuse, so he could only randomly pick up one to hold in his hand – it was warm and quite heartwarming. Gu Qianxi turned her head to look behind Shuai Jinteng: “What about that ‘Big Brother’? Let’s eat together, shall we?”

Lu Yun had his back to his lover, and in his excitement, tears were already filling his eyes. The maids on both sides gathered around laughing: “This big brother, this is our Yang family’s Young Mistress! If you want to make a living in the mansion, you must serve her well.” Mama Zhang also laughed: “Come quickly and kowtow. You can get some reward money to buy wine later.” Seeing the “Great Shopkeeper” surrounded with no escape, Shuai Jinteng secretly smiled, just waiting to see how he would handle his wife. Suddenly there was a “bang” as the back door opened for no reason, as if a demonic wind had blown in. Everyone was greatly shocked and turned to look. Just as they were examining it, they suddenly heard the maids exclaim: “Where did Big Brother go? Where did he go?” The steward looked blank: “Yes, he was just standing here.”

Shuai Jinteng turned quickly and was shocked to see emptiness behind him – the “Great Shopkeeper” had completely disappeared. In broad daylight, under everyone’s eyes, someone had vanished into thin air? Hearing everyone’s exclamations, Shuai Jinteng swallowed and thought the “Great Shopkeeper” hadn’t been home for too long and was afraid of being scolded by his wife, so he could only flee. In the midst of the commotion, Shuai Jinteng was called away by the steward for questioning. The maids were puzzled and uncertain, opening cupboards and searching water tanks everywhere for “Big Brother’s” whereabouts. The room was full of discussion, but Gu Qianxi made no sound. She looked serene and calm as usual, only opening the steamer to check the dishes, but her eyes quietly moved toward the door…

By the carp pond, all was cold and silent. Qiong Fang sat dazedly in the room, looking at the unfamiliar woman before her. Who was this woman? She had large eyes with half her black hair falling down, looking at her shyly and timidly. Seeing a strange woman had come, Qiong Fang looked at the round mirror in surprise, blankly stroking her own face. The beauty in the mirror also raised her hand to gently caress her face, looking delicate and charming.

Qiong Fang was stunned. The Northern Pavilion Master who had ridden horses for ten years, wielding spear and staff in military campaigns, had become like this? She took a deep breath, slowly clenched her fists, bit her teeth slightly, glared with angry eyes, and suddenly looked aside, shocked to see the girl in the mirror lightly biting her white teeth, turning her face shyly – she was extremely beautiful! It was no use – even baring fangs and claws couldn’t wash away this complexion. Because this was natural – this “Fang” character wasn’t the bold “fang” (square) of hot-blooded youth, but the fragrant “fang” that filled the courtyard. The young pavilion master’s fierce pride was nowhere to be seen, leaving only this beauty. Qiong Fang was amazed by her own stunning beauty and actually blushed with a racing heart.

Qiong Fang wasn’t unfamiliar with women’s clothing. In childhood, she had often secretly worn her mother’s clothes, applying eyebrow pencil and rouge, looking in the mirror with joy and jumping around. After her mother passed away, Qiong Fang could no longer find her skirts to wear. When she turned ten, her father suddenly died, and Qiong Fang simply burned all her little girl’s clothes and changed into her father’s scholarly robes, continuing until today.

Qiong Fang gazed blankly at the mirror, seeing the beauty in the mirror looking at her with reddening eyes as tears fell like rain. Gu Qianxi? Who was she? What did she know? What right did she have to persuade her to change clothes? Qiong Fang wiped away her tears and stood up. She didn’t want to wear women’s clothing or present herself this way. She learned from her father’s manner when alive – walking with hands behind her back, head held high. Just as she was thinking of wiping away the rouge on her face, suddenly another thought arose in her heart that made her body slightly warm.

She really wanted to let that person see, to let him understand how beautiful she was…

Qiong Fang’s fragrant cheeks blushed as she arranged her rouge and makeup. She saw the beauty in the mirror gently caressing her face, intoxicated and shy like she was about to lift her bridal veil. Qiong Fang’s body felt so hot. She was shy, happy, annoyed, and restless – even she didn’t know why. Slowly lowering her head, just as she was about to shake her head vigorously, she suddenly thought of the noodle cart downstairs and couldn’t help but tremble all over, her heart already half cold.

Earlier she had personally asked Gu Qianxi about the origin of the noodle cart downstairs, but Gu Qianxi wouldn’t say. Qiong Fang knew in her heart that Gu Qianxi must know something, otherwise she wouldn’t look at her this way. In her mind floated Gu Qianxi’s beautiful, confident face. Qiong Fang sat down dazedly, staring blankly at the bronze mirror before her. She saw the woman in the mirror looking helpless, as if hating something and jealous of something. She didn’t dare look at herself and didn’t know what to do in the future. She could only tear off her flower ornaments and lie on the table crying loudly.

Just as she was crying, she suddenly heard a child say in surprise: “Crazy.” Another person said: “Yes, crying now.” Qiong Fang looked up fiercely and said sternly: “Who’s talking?” Standing before her were one tall and one short figure, looking at her with shocked faces. The dark-faced short one was undoubtedly A’Xiu, while beside him was a fair-faced, tall and slender man – Second Master Yang Shaoqi had arrived.

Qiong Fang was slightly puzzled. Before she could speak, she heard A’Xiu laugh: “Pitiful! Crying while looking in the mirror – must think she’s too ugly.” “How dare you!” Qiong Fang slammed the table heavily and said sternly: “Who allowed you to come in?” A’Xiu was startled, not expecting Qiong Fang to be so imposing. He immediately turned and ran, crying “ai-ya” as he rolled down the stairs and fell below. A’Xiu rolled so fast he disappeared in an instant, leaving Yang Shaoqi alone. He trembled all over with a pale face, saying shakily: “You… don’t be angry… let’s talk nicely…”

Qiong Fang was a martial artist while Yang Shaoqi was a fair-faced scholar with no strength to tie up a chicken. One palm strike would leave Yang Shaoqi bedridden for three to five days at least. She glared at him, suppressing her explosive temper, and said coldly: “Second Master Yang, isn’t it improper for you to barge into a female guest’s private room?” Yang Shaoqi knew he was in the wrong and quickly lowered his head and hands, saying softly: “Yes… this is Yang Er’s fault…” Qiong Fang said coldly: “You’re a jinshi graduate, yet you barge into your sister-in-law’s quarters and spy on female guests – do you think two sentences of explanation can cover this up?”

Yang Shaoqi was new to officialdom. Though he had visited the Imperial Uncle before, he wasn’t well acquainted with Qiong Fang and said fearfully: “I’ve long heard Pavilion Master Qiong is generous and magnanimous, informal in small matters, with the generous spirit of a man. Yang Er… has long admired this, so I boldly came to pay respects… I didn’t expect… didn’t expect the female Yao and Shun would also wear rouge…” Qiong Fang suddenly heard the implication and turned back without saying a word, but her expression darkened. She said: “What do you mean by ‘female Yao and Shun also wear rouge’? Please enlighten me, Master Yang Er.”

A’Xiu had climbed upstairs again, but seeing this expression, he was startled again and quickly said: “I… I’ll leave first…” A’Xiu turned and ran. Yang Shaoqi was still trembling, knowing he had said the wrong thing again. Qiong Fang said sternly: “Master Yang Er, as a man, why must you hide and dodge? If you don’t like women governing and holding power, why not speak plainly?” Qiong Fang wasn’t an ordinary person. Her family had been high officials for generations, and her speech and behavior carried authority. Once she put on a stern face, Yang Shaoqi naturally didn’t dare look directly at her and could only use his examination skills to answer carefully: “Reporting to the Pavilion Master… there’s a common saying: ‘Thieves won’t pass five daughters’ doors, servants won’t abandon orphans’ homes’… Female Yao and Shun governing represents great peace in the world. Yang Er is completely convinced – how could I dislike it?”

Qiong Fang heard him showing off his book knowledge and didn’t want to show weakness: “Well said. Whether male or female, Yao and Shun governing is the people’s fortune and the state’s blessing.” Yang Shaoqi nodded desperately: “The Pavilion Master is wise, the Pavilion Master is wise. A heroine among women indeed.” Qiong Fang had revealed her limitations. In ancient times, families that gave birth to daughters were poor – families with five daughters would certainly be impoverished and without food or clothing, so “thieves won’t pass five daughters’ doors” – even thieves wouldn’t visit. This implied that emperors accumulating women in their harems would impoverish the nation. As for “servants won’t abandon orphans’ homes,” it was even more ill-intentioned.

Qiong Fang was putting on airs, but her learning was limited. Yang Shaoqi naturally laughed inwardly and took a stool, about to sit down, when Qiong Fang had already turned toward the window: “A gentleman doesn’t sit improperly. Master Yang Er, please withdraw.” Hearing Qiong Fang’s dismissal, Yang Shaoqi’s handsome face paled: “Pavilion Master, you… are you in a bad mood?” Qiong Fang neither confirmed nor denied, only facing the window, meaning he should leave quickly.

This Yang Shaoqi was naturally popular with women. Regardless of age, beauty, or ugliness, once they saw his face, they would all open their chatterboxes and talk excitedly, becoming very friendly. But Qiong Fang was naturally dignified – if he tried to chat casually with her about girlish things, he might get beaten until he vomited blood. He lowered his head with a bitter face: “Pavilion Master Qiong, if you’re in a bad mood, how about I tell you a joke?” Qiong Fang was somewhat annoyed and said coldly: “No need. Save it for your sister-in-law.” Yang Shaoqi said softly: “My sister-in-law has heard it.” Qiong Fang said grimly: “Save it for your brother.” Yang Shaoqi sighed: “Do you want to get me beaten?” This was completely unprompted and surprised Qiong Fang, but she heard Yang Shaoqi say: “This joke is about him.”

Hearing this, Qiong Fang couldn’t help lowering her head and smiling. Just as she was about to laugh out loud, she felt something was wrong and turned back, saying coldly: “Boring.” Yang Shaoqi was rebuffed but didn’t get discouraged, only pacing around the room. Qiong Fang sat at the table, seeing Yang Shaoqi constantly stealing glances at her, behaving like a lecher. Her expression darkened further, and just as she was about to angrily drive him away, Yang Shaoqi also became alert and quickly rushed toward the door as if to take his leave.

“A gentleman doesn’t enter a dangerous state or remain in a chaotic one.” Seeing Yang Shaoqi fleeing, Qiong Fang relaxed and was about to turn back when she heard footsteps as Yang Shaoqi hurriedly ran back, moved a bench, and sat down with a squinting smile – quite adorable. Qiong Fang was stunned for a long while: “You… what do you want to do?” Yang Shaoqi smiled: “Nothing. Just exercising my legs.” Qiong Fang couldn’t stand it anymore and exploded: “Yang Er! Are you this improper in front of your sister-in-law too?”

Just waiting for Yang Shaoqi to flee in panic, she heard him sigh and shake his head: “That depends on whether my big brother is home or not.” Qiong Fang was slightly stunned, pondering the meaning, and suddenly couldn’t help but burst out laughing. Yang Shaoqi was overjoyed: “She laughed, she laughed! I made you laugh!” Qiong Fang giggled again, her eyes flowing as she looked at Yang Shaoqi. She saw this person was indeed fair-skinned and refined-looking, but unfortunately, he didn’t sit or stand properly, being frivolous and reckless – probably often deceiving women. She thought: “This Yang fellow isn’t a good person. No need to waste words with him.”

She became wary and wanted to show some dignity. She flipped her sleeve to take out her fan, but felt nothing in her chest. Yang Shaoqi was quick to respond and handed over a round spring grass fan, smiling: “Use this one – ‘light silk small fan catching fireflies’ – how charming?” “Silver candles and autumn light cold on painted screens, light silk small fan catching fireflies” – Qiong Fang heard him treating her like a palace maid and was immediately furious. She stood up abruptly, about to drive him out, when Yang Shaoqi quickly stood up and fled on his own. Qiong Fang wanted to chase him but felt it was beneath her dignity. She snorted and sat back down, but that Yang Shaoqi actually ran back again like a rabbit, attending nearby.

Qiong Fang really couldn’t stand it anymore and exploded: “Are you a three-year-old child?” Yang Shaoqi said frantically: “You… don’t always be angry. I heard you came and wanted to see you – I have no ill intentions.” Qiong Fang said grimly: “What’s there to see in me?” Yang Shaoqi blinked his handsome eyes and said vaguely: “You… you’re very beautiful.” Qiong Fang gave him a cold look: “Glib…” Before she could say the word “tongue,” Yang Shaoqi leaned forward and suddenly kissed her.

Qiong Fang screamed and naturally stepped back, about to strike him, when her feet somehow caught on the stool and she fell onto the bed. Yang Shaoqi quickly crawled over in alarm: “Are you hurt?” This crawling was worse – now the two were embracing together, able to smell each other’s breath. Qiong Fang was both ashamed and angry, shouting: “Are you seeking death?” She jumped up and struck out, truly enraged. Yang Shaoqi knew Qiong Fang was skilled in martial arts – one punch could kill him or take half his life. He quickly hid behind the stool. Qiong Fang shouted and turned to chase. Yang Shaoqi used all his strength to run left while Qiong Fang’s skirt flew as she pursued left. When he fled right, she chased right, circling around the stool.

Qiong Fang was furious. With all her martial arts skills, she couldn’t use them at all in this small room. Suddenly having an idea, she raised her foot to kick over the stool. Just then, Yang Shaoqi cried out and slipped forward, falling onto Qiong Fang again. The two rolled onto the bed. Yang Shaoqi seemed to know he was wrong and desperately apologized: “Sorry, sorry – I just saw you pouting so charmingly, I couldn’t help but…” Qiong Fang roared and raised her foot to kick. This man’s escape skills were truly remarkable – he quickly jumped up and retreated to the bench, placing his hands on his knees and sitting properly.

Qiong Fang was extremely angry. Whether this man had learned strange arts or she was too stupid, she couldn’t do anything to him. She shouted: “Bastard!” Her left hand slammed the bed board with a bang, aggravating her palm injury and making her bend over in pain with tears nearly flowing. Yang Shaoqi saw her crying and panicked: “You… what’s wrong?” Just as he was about to approach and check, he suddenly saw Qiong Fang’s right hand reach out and pin him to the bed, her beautiful eyes glaring fiercely: “Try running again!”

This time Qiong Fang was on top and Yang Shaoqi below – he couldn’t escape. Qiong Fang smiled coldly, about to give him several slaps, when she saw Yang Shaoqi grinning as if quite happy. She exclaimed, finally realizing she was pressing down on this man with their eyes meeting and breath mingling. She couldn’t help feeling greatly ashamed, whimpering as she fled from the bed again.

Yang Shaoqi grinned: “In the end, you’re still afraid of me.” Qiong Fang was indeed a bit afraid of him, but wouldn’t admit weakness, shouting: “If I tell others about today’s events, you’ll die without a burial place.” Yang Shaoqi smiled: “What? Will the Imperial Uncle send people to kill me?” Qiong Fang said coldly: “Why use a butcher’s knife to kill chickens and dogs?” Yang Shaoqi suddenly understood: “Right! Master Su will come for revenge – how could I forget?” Su Ying was originally the Huashan Sect Master, known as the “Three-Reaching Successor,” with extraordinary talent especially in mathematical calculations. If he heard Yang Shaoqi had molested his wife, he could end him with a casual sword strike – how could he tolerate such insolence?

Thinking of Su Ying, Qiong Fang’s expression became sorrowful. She sat back on the bed, arranged her clothes and hair, but said nothing. Yang Shaoqi, being very clever, saw her expression and knew she had some trouble with Su Ying. He coughed a few times: “I heard you’re getting married, right?” Qiong Fang found this topic annoying and turned her head away without responding. Yang Shaoqi continued: “I received your invitation. I heard you’re having the betrothal ceremony at the end of the month and the wedding on February 17th, right?”

Qiong Fang shouted: “It’s none of your business.” Yang Shaoqi saw she was angry and softened his tone: “Alright, alright, don’t frown. A little kiss won’t kill anyone. If you don’t tell and I don’t tell, who will know?” Qiong Fang said hatefully: “Heaven knows, earth knows, you know, I know. Isn’t that enough?” Yang Shaoqi smiled bitterly: “Oh no, you’ve learned all four knowledge types of our Yang family.” He picked up the teapot, poured a cup of cold tea, and offered it over, coaxing softly: “Little darling, don’t be angry. If Master Su doesn’t marry you, then let me take advantage – I, Yang Er, will marry you as my wife.”

Qiong Fang’s anger surged upward and she shouted: “What thing are you? Who wants to marry you?” She swung a backhand slap with a loud smack – this time it actually hit its mark.

After all, Yang Shaoqi was a jinshi graduate and a fifth-rank secretary – even if the Emperor wanted to beat him, he’d have to invoke ancestral rules for palace gate punishment and bear the reputation of a tyrant. How could he really be beaten like this? But this man’s skin was too fair – after one slap, his cheek immediately showed red swelling. Qiong Fang couldn’t help but look stunned: “You… weren’t you quite good at dodging? Why didn’t you run away?”

Yang Shaoqi touched his cheek and laughed bitterly: “If I didn’t let Elder Sister Qiong slap me once, you’d hold a grudge.” Seeing him smiling cheekily again, Qiong Fang couldn’t help getting angry again, her beautiful eyes flashing with fury: “Who told you to provoke me? I’m telling you! If you want me to calm down, you must kneel and admit your mistake!” Before she finished speaking, there was a “thud” as Yang Shaoqi actually lifted his long robe and knelt before Qiong Fang, respectfully kowtowing with a loud sound.

Qiong Fang was astonished – she never expected this court official would kneel at the drop of a hat without any backbone. Just as she was shocked, Yang Shaoqi didn’t forget to ask: “Is one kowtow enough? Should I do another?” Qiong Fang snorted: “I’ve never seen such a spineless man.” Yang Shaoqi said happily: “Looks like your anger has subsided.” He straightened up and sat back on the bench as if nothing had happened.

They say “men have gold under their knees,” but Yang Shaoqi in front of her couldn’t care less. Looking at him with his hand supporting his chin, right leg crossed, completely casual and carefree. Qiong Fang looked at him several times and couldn’t help shaking her head: “Yang Er, are you and your elder brother really blood brothers?” Yang Shaoqi smiled slyly: “Don’t ask me – go ask my mother.” Hearing this, Qiong Fang really couldn’t help but laugh, shaking her head: “I’ve lived this long and never seen a man like you.”

Qiong Fang’s words were sincere. Since childhood, she had seen countless men – all sat properly when sitting, stood properly when standing. The family retainers who accompanied her, like Fu Yuanying and Xu Nanxing, were all proper and correct. Even someone as clever as Su Ying was methodical and orderly in private. She had truly never seen someone as casual and mischievous as Yang Shaoqi.

Seeing the slap had been delivered and the kowtow completed, Qiong Fang’s anger had subsided somewhat, so she said: “Alright, this is called ‘no fighting, no friendship.’ In the future, if you have any trouble, come find me. This Pavilion Master will stand up for you.” Hearing this, Yang Shaoqi was visibly delighted: “Do you really mean that?” Qiong Fang scoffed dismissively: “What? Already wanting to curry favor with me? Then why did you provoke me earlier?” Yang Shaoqi smiled: “You’ve got it backwards. If I wanted to curry favor with you, I had to provoke you first.”

Qiong Fang was first stunned, then understood and smiled with relief. She was naturally generous and extremely generous to friends, but she was undoubtedly a spoiled official’s daughter. If Yang Shaoqi had something to ask of her, he absolutely couldn’t start by kowtowing and fawning – that would only make her disdainful. Better to make a scene and make her furious, then after the young miss’s temper was spent, she’d be easier to talk to. Qiong Fang knew she’d been manipulated and said dismissively: “You’re quite capable. What do you want to ask of me? Say it now.”

Yang Shaoqi stammered: “I… I want to request an audience with… Her Majesty the Empress.” Qiong Fang was slightly puzzled: “You want to see my aunt? Why?” Yang Shaoqi sighed bitterly: “This is called ‘taking people’s money to eliminate their disasters.’ Someone wants to see Her Majesty the Empress but keeps being blocked by the Imperial Uncle. He has no other option, so he paid me to use my wits to find a way.” Qiong Fang was very curious: “Such a thing exists? Whose money did you take?” Yang Shaoqi sighed: “The world’s richest man, Prince Tang Zhu Qi.”

Qiong Fang exclaimed and immediately thought of the court’s vacant Crown Prince position, couldn’t help shaking her head with a smile: “What? Does the Eighth Prince think that even you, a small Ministry of War secretary, can interfere in such great affairs?” Yang Shaoqi smiled bitterly: “No choice – I’m desperately short of money lately, so I have to stir up any situation. Living Buddha, please be merciful and arrange this for Prince Tang.”

Qiong Fang didn’t hesitate: “Don’t mention this matter again. My aunt doesn’t see outsiders normally.” Yang Shaoqi quickly said: “Really? Then how does my elder brother get to see her?” Qiong Fang said coldly: “How can you compare yourself to your elder brother? He’s one of the Five Chief Ministers and has my grandfather accompanying him, so naturally he can see her.” Yang Shaoqi quickly said: “Then… if you lead the way for us, wouldn’t it be the same?”

Qiong Fang said seriously: “Yang Er, I’ll speak frankly – it’s not that I won’t help you, but in this succession case, my aunt already has a favored candidate. Even if you brought Zhu Qi into the palace and both of you talked yourselves hoarse, it wouldn’t matter.” Yang Shaoqi frowned: “Her Majesty the Empress already has a favored candidate? Could it be Prince Chuan’s heir Zai Zhi?” Qiong Fang sighed lightly and shrugged: “Seems so. Anyway, my grandfather arranged everything – no one else can interfere.”

Since being beaten last night, Qiong Fang had given up on everything. Court struggles and palace battles were all external matters to her – she never wanted to deal with them again. Yang Shaoqi pleaded: “Young Pavilion Master, don’t reject people from a thousand li away. Let’s be friends – you help me today, I help you tomorrow, nobody loses out…” Qiong Fang said irritably: “Help me? Do you have that ability?” Yang Shaoqi showed a profound smile that flashed by, then scratched his head and laughed foolishly: “No great abilities, but I don’t lack small cleverness. Don’t think I don’t know – you running to my house in the middle of the night must be because you fought with Young Master Su, right?”

Qiong Fang couldn’t be bothered with him and just found a charcoal stove to boil tea herself. But having never boiled water before, she was clumsy. Yang Shaoqi was diligent and helped by fanning the fire, saying quietly: “Hey, want me to be a mediator for you two?” Qiong Fang glanced at him sideways and said coldly: “What? Are you very familiar with Ying?” Yang Shaoqi fanned the fire and smiled: “I know him, but whether he knows me is another question.” Qiong Fang snorted and snatched the fan back: “Get away.”

Yang Shaoqi sighed: “You’re being volatile again. Listen well – though I’m not familiar with Su Ying, don’t forget I’m naturally handsome. No man who sees me doesn’t get jealous. One day when Su Ying sees you and me talking and laughing, going in and out together, won’t he be so angry his seven orifices emit smoke and his eyes bulge with tongue stiff? Then when he comes crying to your door, kneeling and begging you to change your mind, won’t you, young miss, gain great face?”

Qiong Fang gave him a look: “Forget it. That person values face the most – wanting him to lose face like that, wait until the next lifetime.” Yang Shaoqi said solemnly: “What do you girls understand about men’s thoughts? Which man in the world doesn’t get jealous? If you don’t believe it, let’s try…” Just as he was speaking, they suddenly heard cheerful shouting from downstairs: “Second Cousin!” Footsteps thundered as someone ran up the stairs. Yang Shaoqi couldn’t help trembling and said coldly: “Finally here?” Qiong Fang blinked, not knowing who had come to frighten him like this.

Just as she was curious, Yang Shaoqi was already scurrying around the room looking for escape routes. Just as he was about to crawl under the bed to hide, suddenly a pair of small hands reached out to cover his eyes, saying happily: “Second Cousin, guess who I am?” Qiong Fang had been drinking tea and nearly spat it out upon hearing this. Looking sideways, she saw a young girl about sixteen or seventeen standing behind Yang Shaoqi – apparently Yang Shaoqi’s cousin, laughing mischievously: “Come on, quickly guess who I am.”

Yang Shaoqi had his eyes covered like a blind man and could only smile bitterly: “Stop fooling around – there’s a guest here, it’s very rude.” The girl only focused on pestering Yang Shaoqi and noticed nothing else. Suddenly turning her head and seeing Qiong Fang, she was greatly shocked: “You… who are you?” Qiong Fang sipped her hot tea and said indifferently: “My surname is Qiong, given name Fang.” The girl was stunned for a while. Seeing Qiong Fang was outstandingly beautiful, she first thought she was a Yang Guifei, but her speech seemed like a female bandit leader. Being somewhat shy, she quickly turned to Yang Shaoqi and pestered: “Little cousin, quickly guess who I am! Quickly!”

Yang Shaoqi couldn’t see anything and could only use his skill of listening to the wind to identify positions, pondering: “Judging by the young lady’s voice, it should be Sister Shulin?” The girl released her hands and stamped her foot coquettishly: “Annoying! Shulin is my cousin sister – she’s over thirty and has already had three children.” Yang Shaoqi was stunned: “Sorry, sorry – I didn’t sleep much last night and my mind isn’t clear. Let me guess… you are…” He clapped his hands together happily: “I know! You’re Shujing!” The girl glared at Yang Shaoqi: “She’s only six years old.”

Their dialogue was so amusing that Qiong Fang couldn’t help but giggle. Yang Shaoqi was already about thirty and counted as their elder. After teasing his little cousin for a while, he switched back to a gentle smiling face: “Alright, don’t cry, don’t cry. Sister Shuyi, long time no see. You’re becoming more and more beautiful.” He reached out to gently pinch his cousin’s face, looking very affectionate.

So this girl was called “Shuyi.” Above her was a thirty-year-old cousin sister named “Shulin,” and below was a six-year-old little sister called “Shujing.” It seemed these sisters all shared the character “Shu” (virtuous), though whether they were actually virtuous was hard to guess. Qiong Fang thought about this and suddenly felt fortunate – thank goodness she had this rare surname “Qiong,” which gave her distinction. Otherwise, her name A’Fang would probably be rather common too.

After teasing his cousin for a while, Yang Shaoqi took out an enamel porcelain box from his chest and stuffed it into the girl’s hands: “Here’s a little trinket for you.” Shuyi took the porcelain box in surprise: “What is this?” Yang Shaoqi smiled: “Open it and see – you’ll know once you look.” Shuyi gently opened the lid, and suddenly melodious music came out. She couldn’t help exclaiming: “Ah! This box can sing songs.” Yang Shaoqi said proudly: “Amazing, right? This is a music box made by Arab craftsmen – since the creation of heaven and earth, throughout all time, there’s only this one. I risked my life to steal it from the tribute items entering the palace especially for you. Dare you still say your cousin doesn’t treat you well?”

Shuyi was delighted and spun around in a circle, laughing: “Thank you, Second Cousin!” Yang Shaoqi never did business at a loss. After giving the valuable gift, he looked around and whispered: “Where’s Shuqin? Didn’t she come with you?” Shuyi said while admiring the treasure box: “My sister got up early to wait to pay New Year respects to Great Aunt – how could she not come?” Hearing this, Qiong Fang understood the girl had another sister named “Shuqin.” But Yang Shaoqi trembled slightly upon hearing this name: “Did you… did you see my mother?”

Shuyi said: “Great Aunt is still sleeping. The steward told us not to disturb her.” Yang Shaoqi breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing he had been out all night, fortunately his mother hadn’t gotten up yet, so his secret wouldn’t be exposed. Just as he was feeling fortunate, he heard Shuyi say: “Cousin, seeing as you gave me something, I’ll tell you straight – you’re in big trouble.” Yang Shaoqi looked blank: “In big trouble? What do you mean?” Shuyi said: “My sister was made to cry by you.” Yang Shaoqi was shocked: “I… what did I do?” Shuyi sighed: “Still pretending? You asked her to go to Fragrant Hills to play, making her get up early today to dress up and cook a big pot of food, happy as anything. Who knew you weren’t home at all, making her hide in the side hall crying all morning.”

Yang Shaoqi said tremblingly: “I’m wronged! Who asked her? It was her own wishful…” Before he could say “thinking,” a girl walked out from the stairway carrying an iron pot – this was “Shuqin” arriving. Looking at this “Shuqin,” she was about twenty-six or twenty-seven, pale as snow with few smiles. She silently entered the room, suddenly seeing Qiong Fang and couldn’t help being startled. She stared at Qiong Fang for a long time, then glanced at Yang Shaoqi, placed the whole pot of braised food on the table, and slowly sat down. Seeing her give no greeting and say no words, Qiong Fang couldn’t help wondering: “What’s this about? Who did I offend?”

She forgot that today she was dressed as a woman, beautiful with powder and rouge, stunning all around, inevitably arousing suspicion and jealousy. The situation being awkward, Qiong Fang coughed: “You sit first – I’ll go out for a walk.” Yang Shaoqi quickly said: “Wait for me, I’ll also go stroll…” Before he finished speaking, Shuqin stared blankly at the braised food she had made and suddenly burst into tears. Shuyi softly comforted her sister: “Sister, don’t cry, don’t cry.”

This “Shuqin” was truly pitiful. Look at her – not young anymore, yet in the twilight of her youth, still unmarried, she must have endured endless mockery from relatives and friends. Who would have thought she’d encounter a heartless lover too? Seeing her so heartbroken, Qiong Fang wanted to help her. She raised her face and took several deep breaths, saying cheerfully: “What fragrant braised food! Where did you buy it?”

Shuqin sobbed and couldn’t answer, so her sister helped explain: “This wasn’t bought – my sister made it by hand.” “Made by hand?” Qiong Fang looked amazed and quickly said: “May I eat some?” Shuqin wiped her tears and gently nodded. Qiong Fang opened the pot lid, picked out a piece of dried tofu, tasted it, and exclaimed: “So delicious! I’ve never eaten such good dried tofu!” Shuqin seemed to lack confidence. Hearing the praise, she still worried: “Really… really delicious?” Qiong Fang chewed the dried tofu noisily and laughed loudly in praise: “Delicious! Want another piece!” She picked up a braised egg and ate it with big bites, closing her eyes and sighing: “Such good cooking skills in a girl are rare nowadays… If I were a man, I’d definitely marry her home…”

Shuqin’s heart was touched by these words, and her eyes reddened – she must have suffered endless coldness from her heartless lover. Qiong Fang snorted and stole a glance at Yang Shaoqi, seeing this man still hiding aside playing dumb. She said grimly: “Second Master… shall we enjoy these delicious dishes together?” Yang Shaoqi waved his hands in alarm: “No need, I… I already ate breakfast…” Just as he was declining, he saw Qiong Fang breathe slightly as if preparing some martial arts to hit people. He quickly changed his words: “Alright, let’s eat… eat some…” With no choice, he reached into the pot, picked and chose, finally taking a piece of dried tofu that looked terrible and unappetizing. Just as he was about to throw it back, he heard Qiong Fang say sternly: “Eat!”

Yang Shaoqi was greatly shocked and stuck his head into the pot, chewing and grinding painfully. Qiong Fang was very satisfied and smiled: “Is it good?” Yang Shaoqi with his head in the pot said coldly: “Good… good…” Qiong Fang smiled: “Then why don’t you thank her?” Sobbing sounds came from the pot as if he was secretly cursing. Qiong Fang said coldly: “What did you say?” Laughter came from the pot: “Thank you, Sister Shuqin, really thank you…” Shuqin wiped her tears and smiled: “As long as Second Cousin likes it. There’s still a big pot in the kitchen, all braised for you – I’ll bring it over later.”

“What?” Yang Shaoqi was greatly shocked and quickly raised his head, shouting wildly: “A’Xiu! A’Xiu! There’s delicious food here! Come quickly! Don’t let uncle eat it all alone!” Qiong Fang secretly smiled while Shuqin was overjoyed, knowing it was all thanks to that strange young lady. She stole a glance at Qiong Fang, seeing her looking pure and elegant but with a certain bearing hidden in her brows like a man, and felt some goodwill: “If sister was rude earlier, please forgive me.” Qiong Fang coughed: “It’s fine, it’s fine.” Yang Shaoqi said vaguely: “Her surname is Qiong, younger than you…” Qiong Fang shouted: “Keep eating! Who told you to speak?”

Seeing Qiong Fang’s stern and fierce manner, especially unfriendly toward Yang Shaoqi, Shuqin’s hostility completely disappeared. She quickly raised her hand to adjust Qiong Fang’s hair ornament, saying gently: “Sister, your ornament is so unique, the workmanship so fine…” Shuyi also praised: “Yes, where did you buy it? I want to buy one too.”

This ornament was Gu Qianxi’s – how would Qiong Fang know its origin? Seeing the two girls looking earnest, Qiong Fang felt flustered. Turning to look for Yang Shaoqi, she saw this man sneaking toward the stairway. She immediately roared: “Where are you going?” With a crash, Yang Shaoqi slipped and fell flat on his back. The two cousins cried out in alarm: “Second Cousin is hurt!” Their small feet hurried forward just as Yang Shaoqi shouted wildly: “Mother!” and tumbled down the stairs, rolling away in escape.

The three chased downstairs noisily – who knows where they ended up. Qiong Fang naturally laughed until she bent forward and back, thoroughly amused. No wonder Yang Shaoqi was popular with women – this man had a good temper and would kneel, beg, act cute, and make a fool of himself to make women laugh. Seeing him today, he was indeed a “romantic court physician,” probably not inferior to his elder brother.

Qiong Fang laughed until she was breathless. She reached into her chest to take out her folding fan to cool herself but felt nothing. She smiled a few more times and sat back on the bed. The pavilion was frighteningly quiet – A’Xiu and Yang Shaoqi had both left, and she was alone again. She stared blankly at the mirror, seeing the woman inside looking lonely with a hint of confusion.

The Lantern Festival had passed, and she had left grandfather. How to plan for the future needed consideration. She sighed and found her scholar’s outfit to change back, but the clothes were torn – ripped by Su Ying. Clever Su Ying, the proud big-eyed cat – for so many years, Su Ying had been the smartest man in her heart. He was brilliantly talented, and his swordsmanship was especially clever and adaptable. Compared to Yang Shaoqi, his wisdom was certainly not inferior, but what had happened to him? When did he become so careless, so stubborn, obstinate, and narrow-minded?

In comparison, how free and easy Yang Shaoqi was – how comfortable and carefree it was to be with him! If Su Ying were asked to learn from him – kneeling and begging to make his beloved laugh, acting cute and clever – could he do it?

He couldn’t. Su Ying was a swordsman. Only one thing in the world could make him kneel and beg – his supreme treasure: the “Three-Reaching Sword.” Without the Three-Reaching Sword, he became utterly despondent, feeling women would abandon him, his achievements were lost, and his life meaningless. With the Three-Reaching Sword, he was full of vigor again – fame, fortune, and beautiful women were all within easy reach. Why would he need to kneel and please anyone? Su Ying wanted the sword – with the sword, he needn’t worry about lacking women. Whether surnamed Qiong, Li, Zhang, or Wang, they were all just rewards for being “Number One in the World.”

Qiong Fang sighed softly. At this moment, her thoughts became clear. She stared blankly at herself in the mirror, supporting her forehead, and couldn’t help thinking of Lu Yun again. Lu Yun was already forty years old. Unlike Su Ying, he had once been the top scholar and had been exiled to the ends of the earth, long having abandoned fame and fortune – he counted as a retired person. Someone so open-minded and free – if asked to kneel before a woman, to cherish and protect her in his palm, would he agree?

Don’t even think about it. The great water monster prided himself on his noble character – asking him to kneel around a woman, making a fool of himself, would be worse than cutting him to pieces or beating him lame with palace gate punishment. He’d probably feel more comfortable.

Speaking of which, Yang Shaoqi was truly a good man with no temper at all. In comparison, Lu Yun and Su Ying both paled beside him. These men seemed distinguished and outstanding, but actually they were all false romantics, full of melancholy all day with worried faces. Only Yang Shaoqi didn’t learn to be pretentiously handsome but laughed happily – this was called “false confusion, true romance.” No wonder the girls doted on him.

Actually, thinking carefully, Yang Shaoqi wasn’t particularly remarkable – he was just thick-skinned. When it really came to life and death, asking him to sacrifice himself for the girls, wouldn’t he flee like any other man in the world? He’d probably trip while running too.

Human emotions in this world were really just acting for the occasion – what was there to be attached to? Qiong Fang smiled bitterly. Seeing the sunlight outside and spring in full bloom, why should she sit here in melancholy? She sighed softly and slowly walked down the stairs. Suddenly her eyes turned and she saw that noodle cart again.

Qiong Fang softly exclaimed, her heart feeling like it was pricked by a needle, aching dully. She knew she was wrong. Because in this rolling red dust, there was someone who picked up this noodle cart and from then on was neither official nor hero – his entire life contained only “her.” To make “her” peaceful and happy, not to mention kneeling and begging, acting cute and clever, even sacrificing his life would be possible.

“Willing to be the target of ten thousand arrows,” Qiong Fang quietly crouched down and gently caressed the noodle cart. At this moment, she finally knew what she wanted. How envious, how envious – Qiong Fang’s eyes filled with tears. She so hoped someone in the world could treat her this way, and she would willingly sacrifice herself for them too, even dying for them without letting them know.

For the first time in her life understanding what she wanted – actually not much – but unfortunately she didn’t know if she could find it in this lifetime… Qiong Fang caressed the noodle cart and cried softly for a long time, finally straightening up and walking out of the pavilion.

Qiong Fang left. Now the room was completely quiet with no one left, only that noodle cart sitting forlornly on the ground. Suddenly a black shadow emerged from the corner, appearing like a ghost – completely silent. This shadow hid in the darkness like a fish spirit hiding in a waterfall, completely concealing its presence. Yang Shaoqi, A’Xiu, Qiong Fang – everyone had come and gone without noticing someone was hidden under the stairs.

The shadow quietly turned to gaze at Qiong Fang’s retreating figure, seeming to carry some concern, but after only a few glances turned to look at the thing on the ground. A shoulder pole, two wooden boxes – the noodle cart looked very clean without much oil or smoke, as if someone had carefully wiped it down.

The shadow crouched beside the noodle cart, opening the bowls cabinet and starting the charcoal stove, examining everything up and down. He handled it with practiced ease as if he were the real owner of the noodle cart. Qiong Fang’s figure had gone far and wouldn’t return for a while. Seeing no one around, the shadow suddenly became curious. He carefully looked around this pavilion and quietly went upstairs, looking like a ghost taking residence in an ancient house that no one could drive away.