The beautiful woman smiled slightly, her face radiating shrewd competence. Her eyes flowed like waves as she gazed at Cui Xuanliang, moving a few inches closer with a charming smile: “You’re surnamed Chen, aren’t you?”

“Yes… I… I’m surnamed Chen…” After she looked at him a few times, Cui Xuanliang found himself completely disoriented – Zhao, Qian, Sun, Li, Zhou, Wu, Zheng, Wang – nothing mattered anymore. He swallowed dozens of mouthfuls of saliva. While he stood there in a daze, he heard the beautiful woman say with a smile: “Come, tell me, little brother Chen, what’s your name?”

Cui Xuanliang gestured wildly and immediately reported his name: “I… I’m surnamed Cui… Cui…” Old Chen pinched his thigh hard and whispered: “You’re surnamed Chen.” Cui Xuanliang cried “Ow!” and corrected himself: “I… I’m surnamed Chen, called Chen Cui…”

The woman giggled: “Chen Cui? What an old-fashioned name. Are you also here at Sanshan Guild Hall to do business?” Cui Xuanliang said: “Yes, Lord Shang Liu entrusted my uncle to buy goods, but my uncle was severely injured and can’t move…”

The woman had been composed and leisurely, but upon hearing this, she couldn’t help but shudder slightly: “Your uncle was severely injured?”

Cui Xuanliang was about to say more when Old Lin pinched his thigh hard again. He groaned in pain and quickly changed his words: “No… nothing serious, anyway… anyway with Buddha’s blessing, my uncle’s illness healed without medicine. Look… didn’t he bring me to deliver goods?”

These words were inconsistent and absurd, but the woman didn’t pursue the matter, only smiling: “That’s true. Too bad your goods were cheated away by bad people, right?” Cui Xuanliang’s eyes filled with tears as he said softly: “Yes, those two were so bad, complete swindlers…”

The woman smiled, her large eyes rolling around as she looked Cui Xuanliang up and down repeatedly. Under her scrutiny, Cui Xuanliang’s face grew even redder. He lowered his head and said shyly: “Sister, what… what’s your name?”

Hearing Cui Xuanliang call her “sister,” the beautiful woman couldn’t help but burst into laughter. The shrewdness on her face vanished, replaced by alluring charm as she smiled softly: “Little brother, my husband’s family name is Wei.” The moment she said “husband’s family,” Cui Xuanliang was shocked: “What… sister… you’re already married?” As he spoke, he seemed lost and devastated, as if he’d heard terrible news, truly heartbroken.

Though the beautiful woman was shrewd and capable, seeing this pitiful little appearance, she couldn’t help being amused. She covered her mouth and laughed softly, saying mysteriously: “How old do you think I am? How could I still be your sister? Let me tell you honestly, my daughter is about your age. You’d better learn to show some respect.”

Cui Xuanliang was startled, never expecting this woman to have a daughter the same age as himself. While he was still puzzled, he suddenly saw Old Chen and Old Lin frantically signaling him with their eyes. His mind suddenly cleared: “Ah, this sister’s husband is surnamed Wei, and she has a daughter. This means her husband must be…”

The words “Wei Kuan” flew into his mind. Cui Xuanliang cried out and suddenly jumped up, pointing at the beautiful woman and shouting: “I know who you are! You… you’re my future mother-in-law!”

The moment “mother-in-law” came out, the beautiful woman was stunned for a moment, then couldn’t suppress her laughter and burst out laughing. Several men who had been investigating inside heard the laughter and all turned back in amazement. Even Lin Siyong and Shangguan Yi poked their heads out from the house, wondering what strange thing had happened. The beautiful woman laughed until tears came out, shaking her head: “I haven’t laughed like this in a long time. Look at you talking nonsense, you really made me…”

The woman laughed heartily, but Cui Xuanliang just stared at her blankly. Only now did he realize that this woman was Mrs. Wei, whose husband was “Dragon Commander” Wei Kuan, his father “Flying Tiger” Cui Fengxun’s sworn brother. As for her daughter Wei Siyan, she was the very person he’d come to court in marriage. If this marriage came to pass, she would indeed become his mother-in-law.

Seeing his future mother-in-law standing prettily before him, still so beautiful and captivating, Cui Xuanliang became more and more entranced the longer he looked. Unconsciously, he took a deep breath, and the word “mother” was about to slip out when Old Lin suddenly slapped him awake.

Cui Xuanliang looked like a talented scholar but was actually a fool. Whenever beautiful women appeared, his three souls and six spirits would leave his body, and his behavior became truly bizarre. Fearing he would embarrass himself further, Old Lin quickly dragged him aside.

Seeing the young master make a fool of himself, covering his handsome face and whimpering, Old Chen laughed awkwardly: “We failed to recognize Mount Tai. So you are Mrs. Wei. We didn’t know – ignorance is no crime. We’ll… we’ll take our leave now.”

The woman smiled slightly: “Please wait, gentlemen. I have something to ask you.” Old Chen had no desire to stay here and was trying to find an excuse to slip away when he heard footsteps. A man walked over and said quietly: “Madam, I have something to report.” Without waiting for permission, he bent close to her ear and spoke in low tones.

The woman listened attentively. The charm in her eyes vanished, replaced by a murderous expression as she said coldly: “Tell them to wait. I’ll be right there.” She turned to Old Chen with a smile: “I’m sorry, I have other business in a moment and can’t chat with you gentlemen anymore. Welcome to Smoke Island. As soon as there’s news about your lost items, I’ll immediately send someone to notify you.”

Hearing her polite words, Old Chen was naturally terrified and bowed: “Thank you, Madam. Thank you, Madam.” After expressing his gratitude repeatedly and bowing again and again, Mrs. Wei smiled at Cui Xuanliang: “You’re a good-looking child, tall too, truly lovable. Next time if you’re free, you’re welcome to come play at ‘Dream Manor.'”

“I… I’m free right now…” Cui Xuanliang drooled, wanting to babble a few more words, but Old Chen and Old Lin wouldn’t let him make a fool of himself and forcibly dragged him away.

After the three left the guild hall, they felt as if they’d lived through another lifetime. Old Chen looked up at the sky – the blue sky remained the same, white clouds as usual, and “Shuntian Wang Street” still bustled with people coming and going. The only difference was their empty pockets and confused hearts. All their possessions had been swindled away by criminals, a total loss of one hundred thousand taels of silver.

At this moment, Cui Fengxian was still lying on the ship waiting for everyone to return and settle things, but with all the cargo and gold gone from the ship, what could they do? Thinking of all the future difficulties, Old Chen and Old Lin looked at each other speechlessly.

Cui Xuanliang was still wiping drool, recalling his mother-in-law’s words with shy laughter: “Uncle Chen, when Mrs. Wei was talking to us, why didn’t you mention uncle’s name?” Old Chen raged: “Mention Second Master’s name? How should I mention it? Tell Mrs. Wei that the Cui family produced an idiot son?” Cui Xuanliang frowned: “She… she really likes me. Didn’t you notice?” Old Chen angrily said: “She likes you? Then marry her! You bastard! ‘Shandong Song Lianxiang brings disaster to all who see her’ – such a person, and you dare flirt with her?” Seeing Old Chen’s murderous glare as if he really intended to kill, Cui Xuanliang was startled and quickly hid behind Old Lin, walking on tiptoes.

Old Chen and Old Lin walked dejectedly northward toward the island, planning to return to the ship and reunite with Second Master first. Just after passing a street corner, Cui Xuanliang smelled an aroma and saw many food stalls by the roadside. He swallowed his drool: “Uncle Chen, I’m hungry.” Old Chen exploded: “Young Master! The situation is desperate! And you’re only thinking about food?” Cui Xuanliang frowned: “It’s just that criminals cheated us out of our goods, isn’t it? What’s so serious about that?” Seeing that he had caused such a disaster yet acted like nothing happened, Old Chen and Old Lin’s anger flared even higher as they scolded: “One hundred thousand taels of silver! Don’t you feel any pain?”

Cui Xuanliang shrugged: “What’s painful about it? After I marry Wei Siyan, won’t this Smoke Island be my territory? Then I’ll have a mother-in-law, a wife, and many servants. We’ll have whatever we want – why would we care about a mere hundred thousand taels?” Thinking of the happy prospects, he burst into laughter.

“Young Master…” Old Lin suddenly sighed deeply: “Tell me, what’s your surname?”

Cui Xuanliang said in surprise: “I’m surnamed Cui. Don’t you remember?” Old Chen raged: “Then how dare you say such things? You’re the only heir of the Cui family, beloved by Second Master since childhood, yet now you’re calculating the Wei family’s wealth. With such worthless behavior, do you really think you’re their live-in son-in-law?” Cui Xuanliang said blankly: “Live-in son-in-law?” Old Chen raged: “That means marrying into their family! You bastard! If you want to change your name and surname, we might as well part ways here. I don’t want to see you become a live-in son-in-law for the Wei family! Becoming a dead lapdog and a worthless waste!”

“Worthless waste!” “Worthless waste!” The two old men spoke harshly, every sentence merciless. After being scolded thoroughly, Cui Xuanliang blinked, not understanding what he’d done wrong. He quickly said: “Alright, I… I promise not to marry into their family. Don’t be angry. Besides, didn’t Lin Siyong say he’d help us catch the thieves? I think by evening, our goods will be recovered.”

Old Chen scolded: “What if the goods don’t come back? What should we do then?” Cui Xuanliang smiled: “Then we’ll wait a couple more days. We’re idle anyway…” Old Lin angrily said: “Young Master! You’re idle but I’m not! We have no goods and no money now, but the brothers on the ship are waiting to eat every meal. What do you plan to do?”

Cui Xuanliang mumbled: “If there’s really no way, then let’s go back to the Central Plains…” Old Chen raged: “Go back to the Central Plains? You think you can just go back? What about the fresh water on the ship? Rice? Flour? Meat? We lack everything! What will we use to buy them? Should we go rob people?” Cui Xuanliang, after being lectured, also got angry and shouted: “Do you think I wanted to lose the goods? Fine! You want to rob? This young master will lead the charge!” Feeling upset, he saw several young women standing not far away and rushed toward them, planning to rob their wealth first and their virtue second, to set an example for everyone.

“Young Master! Young Master!” The two old men were terrified and quickly grabbed him, frantically saying: “What are you trying to do now? Haven’t you caused enough trouble?” Unable to rob anyone, Cui Xuanliang simply burst into tears: “You keep scolding me, just let me die! That would satisfy you!” Seeing a large tree by the roadside, he thrust his head forward and charged at it, planning to kill himself by collision. This scared the two old men into pleading and begging before they could talk him down. Old Chen had no choice but to buy some Ryukyu specialty fragrant pig’s trotters for the young master to taste, thinking that once the little ancestor was fed and satisfied, his mood would surely improve.

Sure enough, with food and drink, Cui Xuanliang was all smiles again. Holding the fragrant pig’s trotter, he walked and chewed, eating with great satisfaction. Seeing the two old men still looking worried, he asked: “Here, these pig’s trotters are quite good, not inferior to aunt’s cooking. Do you want some?” Old Chen cursed through gritted teeth, finally understanding why Second Master was always so irritable – he’d been driven to it by this little demon star. He pushed Cui Xuanliang away, pulled Old Lin close, and whispered in his ear: “How much money do you have left?” Old Lin took out two bank notes: “All my worldly possessions are here, forty taels total.” Seeing the bank notes, Old Chen showed no joy, only sighing deeply: “This is overseas territory – bank notes can’t be exchanged here. I need actual silver.”

Old Lin smiled bitterly: “Let me tell you, this morning’s port entry fee was paid by me. Here, if you want actual silver, this is all there is.” Old Lin searched his pockets for a long time and only found two pieces of broken silver. Old Chen weighed them in his hand – less than one tael. He clicked his tongue and took out all his possessions from his coat, but only five taels remained.

Under Song Lianxiang’s various policies, even mooring a ship for one day on this island cost thirty taels. With Cui Fengxian seriously injured and ill, they’d need lodging ashore soon, which would be another expense. Originally, everyone on the ship was counting on Lord Shang Liu’s business deal, but their confused young master not only failed in business but lost the capital as well. Now they were at the end of their rope – what could they do?

Old Lin said with a bitter face: “What do we do now? Should we really go borrow from Mrs. Wei?” Old Chen sighed: “That woman is purely a snob. If we can’t borrow money, we’ll be mocked and ridiculed for nothing. If we do borrow money, she’ll make a profit from the interest. We must grit our teeth and get through this.” People despise the poor and love the rich – this is natural. This trip was ultimately to court marriage, but if the in-laws haven’t been established yet and they become creditors instead, how could this marriage have any hope? Old Lin sighed: “Then what do we do? Should we borrow from the Bu Gu Daoist?” Old Chen sighed: “That old Daoist has no money either. I think if we really can’t make it, we’ll go find Shangguan Yi.”

“Shangguan Yi?” Old Lin said in surprise: “The short old man who accompanied Mrs. Wei earlier?” Old Chen said: “That’s him. I’ve met him several times before. He’s also one of the ‘Eight Tigers of Yanshan.’ For the sake of the Grand Master, he has some sentimental connection and won’t leave us to die.” The Cui family’s Grand Master was Cui Fengxun, one of the “Eight Tigers of Yanshan.” If he were still alive today, Cui Fengxian wouldn’t have been beaten to serious injury, and Cui Xuanliang wouldn’t have become an idiot. Thinking of this, both men involuntarily sighed toward heaven.

Old Lin said: “By the way, isn’t Shangguan Yi from a military background? Why would Song Lianxiang ask him to investigate cases?” Old Chen said: “I heard from Second Master that during the imperial expedition, Old Shangguan was severely wounded by Mongols while saving the emperor. Afterward, the emperor felt sorry for him and ordered him to remain in Beijing to take charge of the ‘Banner Guard.'”

Old Lin nodded: “I see, no wonder Song Lianxiang values him so highly.” He paused and asked: “By the way, how exactly did Lord Shang Liu die? Could he really have caught the plague?”

Hearing the word “plague,” Old Chen felt a chill of fear, his head feeling somewhat dizzy as if feverish. He said in panic: “Don’t scare me. We’re penniless now – if we get sick, we’re surely doomed.” Old Lin touched his own forehead in alarm: “Oh no, my head is so hot. Feel it.” Old Chen reached out to touch and said in terror: “Yes, it’s burning!” Both old men were filled with fear. Just as they were feeling miserable, they suddenly heard Cui Xuanliang say: “Who says we’re penniless!” He took out several worn copper coins and handed them to Old Chen.

Old Chen angrily said: “Young Master, stop fooling around! We don’t need three or five coins – we need real money.”

Cui Xuanliang hummed: “I have real money too. After you scolded me earlier, I remembered – I still have three hundred taels of gold hidden in my room.” The two old men said angrily: “Young Master! At a time like this, can’t you be serious?” Cui Xuanliang gnawed on the pig’s trotter with crunching sounds and said: “Who’s not being serious? Don’t you remember that Korean military officer named Shin Yukbaek who threw a box of gold to me?”

Old Chen cried out, immediately remembering that box of gold bars. When Cui Fengxian was severely injured, “Maritime Defense Commander” Bai Bixia came to mediate and ordered Shin Yukbaek to leave that box of gold bars as compensation. Old Lin said with great joy: “Yes! Yes! There really is that box of gold. Young Master, where did you put it?”

Cui Xuanliang sucked on the pig bone, eating with complete satisfaction, and said: “Last night I was so angry, remembering uncle saying that people should have backbone, so I took the gold to the ship’s rail, planning to throw it into the sea.” The two old men said in trembling voices: “What? You… you really did that?” Cui Xuanliang snorted, looking left and right. Suddenly seeing a wild dog by the roadside, he squatted down and fed it the pig bone in his hand, saying: “I’m not that stupid. What backbone or no backbone – I couldn’t care less. This money was earned with uncle’s life, so of course I should give it to aunt to keep for her old age. Later I hid the gold in the cabin and kept it safe.” He glanced sideways at the two old men: “Was what I did another case of being worthless?”

Old Chen was overjoyed and hugged him tightly, shouting: “No! Young Master, this time you’re not worthless! You did absolutely right!” Cui Xuanliang hummed: “Then will you scold me anymore in the future?” The two old men quickly said: “No more scolding, no more scolding. Young Master is wise and mighty – who would dare scold you?” They say fortune favors the virtuous. With the three hundred taels of gold sent by the Koreans, they could exchange it for six thousand three hundred taels of dragon silver, enough to solve their urgent needs. Everyone on the ship wouldn’t have to become laborers competing with “Little Fang” for food.

The time had passed noon. After experiencing various events, no one felt like talking. The group walked silently for ten li, gradually leaving populated areas behind. Before them lay a coastal wilderness with strange rocks standing like forests and crashing waves breaking against cliffs – a completely different wild beauty from the bustling atmosphere of “Shuntian Wang Street” earlier. Old Chen and Old Lin were not poetic people, and Cui Xuanliang was even more unlearned. Three big men standing by the shore enjoying scenery felt rather spoiling to the view. Cui Xuanliang sighed inwardly, thinking: “How wonderful it would be if Xiao Ming and Xiao Xiu were here with me.” Then he thought: “Wouldn’t it be even better if Mrs. Wei were here with me?” Gradually becoming lost in thought about the joy of traveling with three beauties, he suddenly heard Old Chen say: “Look over there.”

Cui Xuanliang’s heart leaped with joy, thinking Mrs. Wei had appeared, and quickly turned to look. But he saw two men standing in the distance, wearing wooden clogs and strange clothing, with Japanese swords hanging at their waists – clearly two Eastern warriors. These two warriors stood silently, also gazing out at the sea, about ten zhang away from the three men. Though Old Chen was not a martial artist, he had traveled to Southeast Asia with Admiral Zheng He in his early years, so his alertness far exceeded ordinary people. He tugged at the young master’s sleeve: “Let’s go quickly, don’t delay.”

The three dared not linger and hurried away. As soon as they moved, the two Eastern warriors also started walking, always maintaining a ten-zhang distance. Old Chen found this increasingly strange and pulled Old Lin close, whispering: “Are these two following us?” Old Lin frowned: “You’ve become a startled bird. They’re just happening to walk behind us, and you think something’s wrong?” Old Chen whispered: “Better safe than sorry. I think we should stop for now and let them pass first.”

Old Lin said: “Look how scared you are. Fine, I happen to need to urinate anyway, so let’s rest here.” Seeing no shy young ladies around who might scream, he brazenly undid his belt and walked onto the beach to urinate freely into the wind. Cui Xuanliang was quite shy and walked to a large rock to relieve himself quietly.

Old Chen remained calm while secretly glancing backward. He saw one Eastern man squat down as if his clog strap had broken and was tying it up, while the other looked toward their direction. When he saw Old Chen looking back, he turned away, unwilling to meet his gaze. Old Chen’s heart tightened. Seeing Cui Xuanliang squatting by the sea washing his hands, he walked over and whispered: “Young Master, when we were on the street earlier, did you see these two men?”

Cui Xuanliang said irritably: “They’re not women – why would I look twice at them!” Old Chen cursed silently, knowing he’d asked for nothing. Old Lin didn’t care about anything. After finishing urinating, he came back and said: “Done urinating. Should we go now?” Old Chen quickly said: “No rush, let’s sit for a while.” He found a large rock and sat down first. Old Lin and Cui Xuanliang had to accompany him, sitting on the ground, waiting for the two Eastern men to leave. Strangely, those two men seemed to have broken clogs or been hit with pressure point attacks, never moving a step. Old Chen grew more suspicious and said: “Everyone pick up a rock to defend yourselves.”

Cui Xuanliang shuddered slightly: “Uncle Chen, what’s happening?” Old Chen whispered: “These two men have ill intentions and are plotting something.” Cui Xuanliang said “Oh” and quickly turned around, shouting at the two Eastern men: “What are you two sneaking around for? Why are you following us all this way?”

The moment his shout rang out, the Eastern men immediately stood up. Having apparently fixed their clogs, they walked side by side, soon passing Old Chen and Old Lin and taking the lead. Cui Xuanliang said blankly: “Uncle Chen, what do we do now?” Old Chen scratched his head: “If nothing’s wrong, that’s good. Let’s go too.”

The three put the matter behind them and walked slowly. The two Eastern men kept walking ahead without looking back, apparently just fellow travelers after all, and they had wrongly suspected them. Old Chen relaxed. After several more li, the sunlight faded and the sky gradually grew overcast. In the blink of an eye, dark clouds gathered as if it were about to rain. Old Lin said in panic: “Oh no, a thunderstorm is coming. We need to find shelter.”

Thunder rumbled faintly, and a flash of lightning streaked across the sea. Though they hadn’t heard the thunder yet, it was quite intimidating. But the surrounding area was all wilderness, nothing but barren desert, and they didn’t know where to take shelter from the rain. Cui Xuanliang suddenly said with great joy: “Don’t worry, look, we can shelter there.” The two old men looked in the direction of his gaze and saw a large tree growing on the plain by the sea, quite tall and prominent. The two old men angrily said: “Young Master! Are you truly stupid or pretending to be foolish? Taking shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm – do you want to be struck by lightning?”

Cui Xuanliang laughed: “If you’ve done nothing wrong in life, why would you be struck by lightning? Let’s go quickly.” Before he finished speaking, there was a tremendous thunderclap. Lightning split the sky and struck directly at the treetop with magnificent force. The great tree burst into flames after being struck by lightning. Cui Xuanliang was terrified and couldn’t help trembling all over. The two old men quickly said: “Let’s go! There must be a market ahead. Let’s run!”

With thunder crashing on level ground, the three ran along the seaside for several li. Fortunately, the heavy rain hadn’t fallen yet, or they would have become drenched rats. While catching their breath, Cui Xuanliang suddenly called out: “There it is! There are houses ahead!” Everyone rushed forward, and indeed houses appeared ahead. They saw a stone tablet by the roadside inscribed “Taiping District,” and opposite the tablet stood a wooden archway painted red. Looking through the archway, they saw a wooden monastery that, though not large in area, had quite ancient architecture.

Seeing the rather ancient and secluded archway, Cui Xuanliang’s curiosity was aroused again, and he peered around curiously, laughing: “What is this place?” Old Chen pondered: “I don’t know, this seems like a temple…” While they were guessing, Old Lin exclaimed “Eh?” and said: “Look behind us.”

Old Chen turned as directed and was also startled to see two more Eastern warriors had followed them from behind. He didn’t know when these two had started following them without being noticed. Old Chen broke into a cold sweat and quickly looked ahead, where he saw the corner of clothing behind the archway – two more warriors were hiding there, the very ones who had been walking ahead earlier. The two old men were greatly alarmed, realizing these four warriors had surrounded them in a pincer movement. The situation was like catching a turtle in a jar. Old Chen and Old Lin had limited skills, with only Cui Xuanliang having practiced superior martial arts. But how could his two fists resist four vicious blades? Old Lin said in a trembling voice: “What do we do? Should we run back?” Old Chen’s heart was fearful and he didn’t know what to do, while Cui Xuanliang just yawned, apparently completely unaware of being in danger.

“Rumble!” came a thunderclap that shook the earth, and suddenly there was the sound of rushing water. This heavy rain came fierce and fast. Cui Xuanliang shouted: “It’s raining! Run! Run!” As he spoke, he had already rushed past the archway straight toward the monastery. Old Lin said in alarm: “What should we do? Should we follow?” Old Chen gritted his teeth: “No choice… let’s follow…” In their panic, the three men rushed to shelter under the monastery, one in front and two behind. Though it was only an instant, they were all drenched. Looking at the four Eastern warriors, they hadn’t followed but had all turned around, hands on sword hilts, guarding under the archway.

The two old men stared in bewilderment, while Cui Xuanliang paid no attention to anything. His head dripping with water, he was wiping his face when he suddenly heard the sound of a bell, clear and pleasant. Everyone turned to look and only then saw a woman standing in the hall. Her feet were in white socks without shoes, her back to everyone, pulling a thick rope that made clanging sounds.

Everyone looked up to see the rope tied to the temple’s lintel with a bell at the top, so that with a slight pull of the rope, the bell would sway and ring. Looking into the hall, they saw the woman had a divine altar before her with three sacred tablets enshrined upon it. In the center was the “Amaterasu Omikami Sacred Tablet,” on the right was the “Tamayorihime no Mikoto Sacred Tablet,” and on the left was the “Yaorozuno Kami Sacred Tablet.” Cui Xuanliang was filled with amazement and quickly asked: “Uncle Chen, what is this place?” The hall was silent, and as soon as he spoke, it echoed throughout the room. Old Chen quickly lowered his voice: “Speak quietly. We’ve stumbled into an Eastern shrine.”

A shrine is a place of worship for Japanese Shinto, a religion different from Buddhism that mostly venerates native Eastern deities. The archway outside is called a “torii,” meaning a boundary that separates the mundane world from the shrine. Having passed through the archway, they had entered what the Eastern people considered the spiritual realm.

This was everyone’s first time at a shrine, so they all quieted down to observe the woman. The hall was completely silent except for the pattering sound of rain falling. They saw the Eastern woman standing quietly in the hall, slowly gathering her black hair into a bun, revealing her pale nape. Her clothing was entirely different from Chinese women’s attire – she wore a dress-like garment with a sash around her waist that made her waist and hips appear more defined. Seeing this beauty’s graceful figure, Cui Xuanliang blinked again and tugged at Old Lin’s sleeve, whispering: “The clothes this woman is wearing – is that what Eastern people call kimono?” Old Lin whispered back: “Should be, though I’ve heard people say this isn’t called kimono. Eastern people call these garments ‘gofuku.'”

Kimono’s original name was “gofuku,” also called “Tang clothing,” meaning ancient garments transmitted from China’s Wu and Yue regions. Since the Taika Reform, it had been worn in the East for a thousand years. Hearing that this clothing came from the Central Plains, Cui Xuanliang’s eyes widened: “So our ancestors all wore these clothes?” Old Lin frowned: “That… I’m not sure about…” Just as he was about to say more, two sharp claps rang out. Everyone startled and looked to see the Eastern woman clapping her palms together, creating loud echoes in the hall. Old Chen, fearing they might disturb her, quickly put his finger to his lips, signaling everyone to remain silent.

“Rumble!” Lightning flashed across the sky with a tremendous roar that shook the earth. Outside the hall, violent rain poured down, but inside remained silent. After clapping, the woman pressed her palms together and prayed silently. Old Chen secretly turned to look outside the hall and saw the four warriors with hands on their sword hilts. Though torrential rain poured down, they remained vigilant at their posts, not leaving the archway by a single step. Old Chen secretly calculated that this woman must have some connection with the outside warriors, with a clear hierarchy of superior and subordinate. From this perspective, these people’s encounter with them must have some reason and was definitely not a chance meeting. Since they were here, they might as well make the best of it. As long as the other side remained motionless, they could only act according to circumstances. While he was thinking, the woman finished her prayers and bowed deeply to the sacred tablets in the hall. Seeing that she never kowtowed from beginning to end, only using hand clapping and bowing as etiquette, this must be Eastern custom and nothing surprising. In the silence, the woman finally turned around. Seeing Old Chen, Old Lin and the others standing outside the hall, she showed no surprise, only nodding slightly to acknowledge them. When everyone’s eyes met hers, they all felt a slight chill, thinking: “This woman must be nobility.”

The woman before them was about the same age as Mrs. Wei from earlier – both in their early thirties. But while Mrs. Wei had more shrewdness and severity, this woman had more elegant tranquility. Under her gofuku garment, she revealed an air of noble dignity that made people dare not stare directly.

The woman slowly walked out of the hall and put on wooden clogs beside it. Seeing her feet in silk stockings, Old Chen and Old Lin dared not look closely and stepped back one by one. But Cui Xuanliang was the Central Plains’ greatest libertine – as long as he saw women, even in dangerous territory, he treated it casually. He walked over in a daze and mumbled: “Hello, we happened to pass by your precious place, we’re sorry… I’m surnamed Cui, called Cui Xuanliang…” The woman smiled and said: “Xuanliang meaning ‘dignified bearing’ and ‘noble character,’ right?”

Hearing the woman speak pure, authentic Chinese, Cui Xuanliang jumped with joy: “You… you know me?” The woman smiled without answering, only asking everyone: “Friends, have you eaten?”

Cui Xuanliang shook his head vigorously and was about to shout about being hungry when Old Chen grabbed him, laughing awkwardly: “Miss, why… why do you know us?” The woman smiled slightly: “We received kindness from Cui Fengxian, Master Cui the Second, and have always been grateful.” Old Chen and Old Lin looked at each other in surprise: “You… you received kindness from our Second Master?” The woman smiled and bowed slightly: “Yes, great kindness needs no thanks. Master Cui Fengxian truly lives up to being a Central Plains hero with extraordinary bearing. Since his family has come here, this humble woman should naturally provide the best hospitality.” She turned and formally invited: “Gentlemen, please follow me to the ‘abstinence room’ for tea.”

Seeing the woman heading toward the corridor, Old Chen and Old Lin were both hesitant. Old Lin whispered: “Looking at this woman’s manner, it seems she deliberately lured us here.” Old Chen pondered: “Indeed, she even knows about Second Master’s affairs…” Just as they were about to look for Cui Xuanliang, the boy had disappeared. The two old men were startled and called out everywhere: “Young Master! Young Master!” In their panic, they saw a trembling figure in the distance of the corridor following the woman. Looking at this person who’d lost half his three souls and six spirits, who else could it be but Cui Xuanliang? Old Chen and Old Lin smiled bitterly and had to chase after him.

They say “to die under peonies would be romantic even as a ghost.” Cui Xuanliang was in dangerous territory but completely forgot himself, thinking that even if he were to be cooked and eaten shortly, as long as a beautiful sister tasted him with her cherry lips, he would smile and accept it sweetly. The shrine wasn’t large, and after just a few steps, they reached a side room, apparently the “abstinence room.” The two old men stopped and saw Cui Xuanliang standing shyly at the door, peering through the paper door. Old Chen and Old Lin slowly approached and accompanied the young master in looking into the room.

Eastern buildings had high foundations, so there were no chairs inside, only grass mats laid out like in Tang style. Everyone watched the Eastern woman with her outstanding temperament. Before sitting, she reached behind with both hands to gather her gofuku skirt, then slowly knelt and placed both feet under her hips.

Seeing the woman sit motionless with straight back and dignified kneeling posture, she was indescribably gentle and beautiful. Cui Xuanliang’s heart stirred and he was about to enter the room when the woman bowed slightly: “Young Master, could you please remove your boots first?” Looking at the spotless mats and cushions in the room while Cui Xuanliang still wore boots covered with mud, if he stepped inside, he would inevitably leave black footprints. He cried “Ah!” and immediately sat down, struggling to pull off his leather boots in a panic.

Eastern people valued etiquette most and often argued with guests over minor ritual matters. Removing shoes was one such thing. Seeing the young master remove his shoes, Old Lin also squatted down to take off his two smelly shoes, but Old Chen stopped him: “Friend or foe unclear – don’t rush to go in.” At this time, torrential rain poured outside the hall, yet four Eastern warriors still stood in the rain, firmly guarding the shrine entrance. If this woman had ulterior motives, wouldn’t they all perish here? The Eastern woman understood everyone’s concerns and smiled: “Don’t worry, elder brothers. Those are my retainers and won’t harm you.” Hearing the word “retainers,” the two old men’s hearts tightened, knowing this woman’s status was extraordinary – she must be Eastern nobility of very high rank. Old Chen took a deep breath: “Madam, why did you have people follow us?”

The woman shook her head: “I didn’t.” Old Chen said coldly: “What do you mean you didn’t? Those four people stuck to our rear, following us for over ten li. If that’s not following, what is?” The woman said softly: “This isn’t following, but protection.” Everyone looked at each other in amazement, but the woman said no more, only taking out a charcoal brazier and placing it on the low table, then beginning to brew tea in the room. Old Chen took a deep breath: “You… you just claimed to have received kindness from our Second Master. Is this true or false?”

The woman answered every question with a smile: “Sir, I am a person of status. Why would I lie to you?” This was quite convincing. Looking at everyone empty-handed, having just been swindled out of one hundred thousand taels and now penniless, who would bother with such elaborate schemes for them? Old Chen believed somewhat and said: “You… you followed us from ‘Shuntian Wang Street’?” The woman replied frankly: “Correct. When your young master entered ‘Sanshan Guild Hall,’ my subordinates saw him. Unfortunately, we couldn’t protect Young Master Cui’s goods. We’re truly sorry.” Cui Xuanliang said in surprise: “Sister, you… were you also at the guild hall then? How come I didn’t see you?” The woman smiled: “Various factions gathered at the guild hall then, so it was inconvenient for me to appear.” Cui Xuanliang said “Eh?” thinking that the guild hall had been empty then without even seeing a single man, so where did these large numbers of people come from? Could they be ghosts? Old Chen found it increasingly puzzling: “So you’re saying you sent these four to follow and track us because you truly wanted to protect us all the way?”

The woman seemed busy, fanning the fire and brewing tea while saying: “Your guess is correct… but there’s one thing you said that’s not quite right.” Old Chen frowned: “What thing?” The woman turned her eyes and smiled: “I didn’t send out four people, but sixteen people.” Old Chen was shocked and terrified, Old Lin’s face also changed color, and even Cui Xuanliang became suspicious, quickly saying: “Sister, you… why did you send people to protect us? Could it be… could it be that someone wants to harm us?”

“Yes…” The woman picked up a round fan to fan the fire, saying lightly: “I dare stake my life that without their protection along the way, you gentlemen could not have left ‘Shuntian Wang Street’ alive.” Everyone was greatly shocked, not knowing if her words were true or false. Old Chen said half-believingly: “Who… who wants to harm us?” The woman said: “The same group that killed Lord Shang Liu.” Old Lin jumped up in fright, while Old Chen coughed violently: “So you’re saying you… you deliberately lured us here, right?” The woman smiled slightly: “Correct. First, I wanted to thank you gentlemen, and second, to help you avoid disaster and prevent ambush on the road.” She said no more and beckoned to Cui Xuanliang, saying gently: “Young Master Cui, please come in for tea. I have a few words to say to you.”

Once beckoned by a beautiful woman, Cui Xuanliang’s three souls and six spirits immediately left his body. His eyes rolled back as he walked into the room in a daze, about to throw himself at her when the woman couldn’t help covering her mouth and laughing softly: “Young Master, your seat is opposite.” Cui Xuanliang was absent-minded and stared fixedly at the woman, slowly stepping backward until he suddenly tripped over the low table. With a cry of “Ow!” he fell flat on his back. He sat up painfully and suddenly exclaimed “Eh?” in great surprise: “Where… where is this? How did I get here?” Hearing this, Old Chen and Old Lin naturally covered their faces and sighed, while the woman smiled sweetly, turning her pretty face, adding even more beauty. Seeing this, Cui Xuanliang became confused again.

The rain outside was tremendous, so candles were lit inside the room. Under the dim yellow lamplight, the sister before him had a delicate nose and cherry lips with elegant temperament and noble bearing throughout. But seeing her kneeling and serving tea so attentively, she looked truly gentle and considerate. Cui Xuanliang’s heart pounded as he thought: “Looking at this sister being so obedient and well-behaved, whoever marries her would have an emperor’s fortune.”

Cui Xuanliang was tall with long legs, so when he sat down, his legs sprawled left and right, spreading foul odors wherever they went. Old Chen and Old Lin couldn’t help covering their noses. But the woman was quite tolerant, only keeping her head down brewing tea while asking Old Chen and Old Lin: “Won’t you two gentlemen come in?” Old Chen coughed: “No. As soon as the rain stops, we’ll leave.” The woman smiled: “Sir, in July on Smoke Island, rain often lasts two or three days. You may have to stay.” Hearing this, Old Chen’s heart jumped, fearing they might be kidnapped. While he worried, the woman had already lifted the tea bowl with both hands and offered it to Cui Xuanliang, saying gently: “Young Master, please have tea first.” Cui Xuanliang took the teacup and smelled the woman’s fragrance, his heartbeat accelerating as he thought: “Strange, why does she smell so good?”

Thinking of heart-stirring matters, Cui Xuanliang naturally became elated. He lifted the teacup and gulped it down, then with a “pff” sound, violently spat the tea water out of the room, crying miserably: “So hot!”

Seeing Cui Xuanliang’s complete lack of manners, like a ruffian, if this were in Eastern territory, he would be pointed at by thousands. But the woman only smiled and refilled his cup, saying gently: “Young Master, drink slowly, don’t burn yourself.”

With his tongue in pain, Cui Xuanliang’s head cleared again. While fanning his burned mouth and sticking out his tongue in pain, he said: “Sister, what… what’s your name? I haven’t asked you yet.” The woman smiled faintly: “My humble name contains the character ‘Rong.’ If Young Master doesn’t mind, you may call me ‘Mrs. Rong.'” Suddenly hearing “Mrs.” meant she was taken, Cui Xuanliang’s mouth gaped open as if struck by lightning, unable to make a sound. After a very long time, he finally sighed deeply: “Married again…”

The woman showed slight surprise: “I’m married again? What does Young Master mean by this?”

Cui Xuanliang felt lost and dejected. He didn’t know what unlucky star he’d offended today – clearly encountering beautiful women consecutively, but they were all other people’s wives. With their beauty already plucked by others, how could he not be sad, how could he not suffer? He sighed, slowly drew in his long legs to sit cross-legged, and slightly closed his eyes like an old monk in meditation.

Mrs. Rong said worriedly: “What’s wrong with Young Master? Are you ill?” Just as she was about to touch his forehead, Cui Xuanliang blocked her hand and turned toward the wall: “Men and women shouldn’t touch each other. Don’t touch me.” Everyone exclaimed “Eh?” – usually Cui Xuanliang was playful and grinning, and whenever women came near, he would definitely act foolish to win their favor. When had he ever said “men and women shouldn’t touch each other”? Old Chen and Old Lin looked terrified, saying in trembling voices: “Young Master, are you… sick?” Cui Xuanliang sighed toward heaven: “Nothing’s wrong… I’ve just awakened.” They say “the greatest sorrow is when the heart dies.” After encountering beautiful women repeatedly today, all of whom were already married with children, Cui Xuanliang finally became completely enlightened under such blows. At this moment his mind was clear and his speech coherent, but this appearance was too rare, inevitably surprising Old Chen and Old Lin greatly.

Cui Xuanliang picked up the teapot to pour for himself. Seeing Old Chen and Old Lin whispering with heads together, he snorted and said: “Madam, your Chinese is quite fluent. Where did you learn it?” Mrs. Rong smiled: “From my father.” Cui Xuanliang nodded and said solemnly: “So you learned from your esteemed father. This means Madam comes from a scholarly family tradition.”

Hearing Cui Xuanliang speak eloquently, even able to say “scholarly family tradition,” Old Chen and Old Lin were naturally terrified, while Mrs. Rong smiled slightly: “To be honest with Young Master Cui, my father lived in China for many years with a very deep foundation in Chinese literature. I learned gradually through constant exposure since childhood.” Cui Xuanliang said seriously: “No wonder Madam speaks with perfect pronunciation, just like our Chinese girls.” Mrs. Rong bowed forward with a smile: “Young Master flatters me. My Chinese has a southern accent, not as pleasant as Beijing girls’ official pronunciation.” If he’d heard this normally, Cui Xuanliang would have laughed and joked, inevitably saying something silly, but now he only snorted and picked up his teacup to drink slowly, like a blade-bearing guard before the emperor.

Seeing Cui Xuanliang enter like a market ruffian with a blank expression, completely embarrassing himself, but now sitting properly with eyes straight ahead, Mrs. Rong smiled slightly, resting her chin on her hand as she observed the youth across from her. Seeing her like this, Cui Xuanliang couldn’t help stammering again: “What… what are you staring at me for?”

Mrs. Rong smiled without answering, only picking up the teapot to refill his water: “Young Master, you came to Smoke Island to court marriage, right?” Cui Xuanliang said in surprise: “How do you know?” Mrs. Rong said: “Of course I know. Your father is sworn brother to Island Master Wei Kuan, and Miss Wei Siyan is in her prime. With your families being perfectly matched in talent and status, how could your uncle not come to propose this marriage?”

Hearing “Wei Siyan,” Cui Xuanliang immediately thought of his mother-in-law, then felt heat rising and his handsome face reddened as he said quietly: “Sister, do you… do you know Wei Siyan?” Mrs. Rong said lightly: “I’ve met her a few times. But this young lady has a very proud temperament and shows a cold face to everyone. Many young heroes want to get close to her beauty but have no opportunity.” Cui Xuanliang closed his eyes, imagining the Wei family girl’s appearance, and sighed: “Sister, if you… if you compared yourself to Miss Wei, who would be more beautiful?” Mrs. Rong smiled: “Miss Wei is devastatingly beautiful with many suitors. I’m just an aging woman – how could I compete with her radiance?” Cui Xuanliang opened his eyes and smiled softly: “Sister is the most beautiful and not old at all.”

Old Chen and Old Lin exchanged glances, cursing endlessly in their hearts: “Here we go again.” A dog can’t change its habit of eating feces. Young Master Cui was reverting to old behavior, becoming absent-minded again as he said with a soft laugh: “Sister, do you… do you think I have any chance courting marriage this time?” This question was too direct, making Mrs. Rong cover her mouth and laugh: “Young Master Cui can rest assured. I think if Miss Wei sees you, she should get along well with you.” Cui Xuanliang said with great joy: “Really?” Mrs. Rong smiled: “Of course. Young Master Cui is handsome and from a distinguished family. Plus your easygoing nature makes you easily get along with girls. If Miss Wei sees you, she’ll definitely consider you a good friend.”

Cui Xuanliang rubbed his hands together excitedly: “You’re right! I have the most easygoing nature. If girls want me to sit, I sit; if they want me to kneel, I kneel. No man in the world can compare to me!” Mrs. Rong said with delight: “Yes, they say men have gold under their knees, but Young Master can transcend worldly prejudices and let others determine honor and disgrace. Such character is truly one in a thousand, rarely seen in ten thousand years.” Cui Xuanliang was wildly happy inside and jumped up, about to dance with joy when he heard Old Chen and Old Lin curse painfully: “Worthless!” The worthless one’s face reddened and he obediently sat back down. Mrs. Rong really couldn’t contain herself and finally burst into laughter.

This Cui Xuanliang truly had skill – no matter what kind of woman met him, they would all be amused to joy. Seeing this, Old Chen didn’t know whether to cry or laugh and could only cough forcefully: “Madam, where is your husband? How is it that we’ve talked for so long without seeing him?” Mrs. Rong sighed: “Thank you for your concern, sir. But my husband is currently recuperating and it’s inconvenient for him to see guests these days.”

Everyone said in surprise: “What? Your husband is ill?” Mrs. Rong said: “His illness is chronic. It flares up periodically. But this time the symptoms are extremely severe and may be life-threatening.” Cui Xuanliang cried out and quickly said: “Sister, when you were worshipping in the shrine earlier, was it to pray for your husband’s blessing?” Mrs. Rong showed slight derision, only closing her eyes without responding.

Seeing Sister Rong’s husband in critical condition, Cui Xuanliang couldn’t help feeling great pity. He pitied that Sister Rong was so pitiful, about to become a widow at such a young age, and regretted that with her beauty and youth, who would cherish and love her on the long road ahead? Thinking this, a feeling of volunteering arose spontaneously. He wanted to rush forward and hold her tightly in his arms to cherish her well. The room quieted down. Mrs. Rong raised her head and saw Cui Xuanliang’s eyes glazed over, once again staring fixedly at her, and couldn’t help being curious again: “What’s wrong with Young Master?” Cui Xuanliang’s face flushed as he swallowed several mouthfuls of saliva but couldn’t speak. Old Chen had to cough and say: “Mrs. Rong, did you also come to Smoke Island specifically to celebrate Island Master Wei’s birthday?” Mrs. Rong smiled: “You misunderstand, sir. Wei Kuan and I are not acquainted.” Cui Xuanliang said “Oh”: “So you didn’t come to celebrate his birthday. Then… then what are you doing on Smoke Island? Are you here for business?”

“Neither.” Mrs. Rong answered every question with a smile: “I came to find someone.”

“Find someone?” Cui Xuanliang’s eyes rolled and he immediately thought of the Tianjue monk, saying in amazement: “Wait, you… you wouldn’t also be looking for someone surnamed Fang, would you?” Mrs. Rong had been pouring tea for him, but upon hearing this, she spilled some tea water. She looked up at Cui Xuanliang and smiled forcedly: “Why does Young Master say this?”

Cui Xuanliang smiled: “I know a friend who happens to also be looking for someone surnamed Fang.”

Mrs. Rong smiled. She kept her head down pouring tea: “What is the background of Young Master’s friend? Could you tell me?” Cui Xuanliang hummed, about to speak openly, but as the words reached his lips, he changed his mind. He touched his head bashfully: “Sister, if you ask me something and I just answer, that doesn’t seem very fair, does it?” Seeing him act roguishly, Mrs. Rong couldn’t help covering her mouth and smiling: “Young Master, I sent people to protect you all the way. Isn’t such consideration enough?” Cui Xuanliang grinned mischievously and scratched his head: “Not enough.” Seeing the young master become a lecher again, Old Chen’s face filled with annoyance, while Mrs. Rong showed a sweet smile and asked: “Then what would Young Master Cui need to be willing to speak? Could you tell me?”

Cui Xuanliang’s heart pounded. Looking at Mrs. Rong’s gentle face and her cherry-red beautiful lips, his face immediately burned. Just as he was about to make outrageous demands, he saw Old Chen and Old Lin glaring at him angrily. Stammering, he had to swallow his words.

Mrs. Rong had no intention of pressing the matter. Seeing Cui Xuanliang’s teacup was empty, she refilled it with tea water and offered it with both hands, saying: “Young Master Cui, do you know why I waited for you here?” Cui Xuanliang stammered and shook his head. Mrs. Rong answered her own question with a smile: “To tell you the truth, because I believe you are Smoke Island’s next island master.” Old Chen and Old Lin were startled, and Cui Xuanliang also showed surprise. Mrs. Rong smiled: “This island has countless gold, silver and jewels, plus unlimited power and glory. But do you know what this island’s greatest treasure is?”

Cui Xuanliang scratched his head and said quietly: “Beautiful women?” Mrs. Rong leaned forward with a smile: “Young Master Cui, you’re a youth with awakening romantic feelings. What you think and talk about all relates to beautiful women. But have you considered what you’ll care about in your heart when you reach Wei Kuan’s age?”