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In the first year of the chaotic era, during the twelfth lunar month, King Ming Chen Shao led his troops directly to Nan Du. From then on, the Yong Kingdom was thrown into chaos. In the following January, King Yong Chen Wei committed all his forces to a great victory over Shao’s army at Wu Ming Valley. King Ming disappeared without a trace. However, by the end of February, King Yong fell violently ill, his body covered in sores and unbearable pain. He soon passed away in his camp, posthumously titled Ugly King. In March, amidst national mourning, before the crown prince could ascend the throne, King Ming captured Nan Du. Chen Shao killed his nephew to seize the throne, becoming King Yong Li.
At that time, the previously abundant sixteen states of You were completely lost to Qing territory. King Li was enraged and asked his attendants. They replied: The one who devised this treacherous plan is the young Left Chancellor of Qing, Feng Yunqing. King Li remained silent and conceived murderous thoughts.
... Zhang Mi, “Chronicles of Warring States: Yong Records”
A few small fish an inch or two long, three or four bamboo rods tall, their dense shade concealing a pair of tiny feet.
“Miss!” The fiery beauty under the tree ground her teeth in frustration but spoke softly, “We won't pierce our ears anymore, Miss Qingqing, come out quickly.” She held her breath, listening attentively, warily scanning around.
The light fragrance of lotus floated through the air as a youth dressed for action approached from the lakeshore: “Nong Mo, haven’t found her yet?”
“Hmph, hmpf.” The beautiful woman's sinister smile sent chilling vibes, startling the “little bird” in the tree.
“...Chirp...” A soft sound came from the shade, prompting Nong Mo to look up closely.
“When I passed by Mingxin House earlier, I thought I saw Qingqing,” the youth glanced at the dense foliage hurriedly, “Ah, her hair is styled in twin buns, right?”
“Thank you, Young Master!” Nong Mo narrowed her beautiful eyes, lifting her skirt and running off like the wind.
As the fragrant breeze gradually faded, the youth swiftly turned and entered the dense shade.
“Qingqing.” He sat on a branch, looking at the little figure beside him, “How did you get up here?” He was quite curious; how could his five-year-old sister have such skills?
The little one scattered crushed food on the branches, enticing hungry birds to perch and feed.
“I climbed up.” Her melodious childlike voice dispelled the summer heat, making him feel comfortable. “Earlier, Ah Fu was trimming the branches here, there was a ladder.”
The youth raised his eyebrows in response: “And now?”
“He took the ladder with him.” The little one blinked, appearing particularly innocent.
“If I hadn't come, what did you plan to do to get down?” The youth leaned against the tree, crossing his arms and watching.
The little one gave a mature glance, almost making the youth forget her age.
“Big Brother.”
“Hmm?”
“I'm not mute.”
“Huh?” Does it matter?
“I can call out.”
Wouldn’t this little girl occasionally show some helplessness, sweetly pouting with her childish voice? The corners of the youth's mouth twitched slightly. He helplessly lowered his gaze, suddenly seeing her take a piece of golden crisp candy from her pouch, gently crushing it and feeding it to… sparrows!
What a waste! This was the famous Jin Su Candy from Fan Capital, truly squandering good things! It infuriated him!
“Big Brother?”
“Hmm?” He responded absentmindedly, his eyes only on that piece of candy.
“Do you want some?”
Faced with such a delicacy, he wanted to devour it whole. But Father said real men shouldn’t be fond of sweets, so he had to painfully decline: “Hmph, I don’t want any sweets meant for girls!” He proudly raised his head.
“Oh, then I’ll feed it all to the sparrows.” Her childish voice lightly carried hints of laughter, “They seem to love it very much.”
Upon hearing this, the youth’s expression slightly changed. He gritted his teeth and carried the little one flying away from the green treetops.
“Wow!” The little one hugged his neck, excitedly widening her eyes, “So amazing!”
Like falling leaves, they landed gracefully. The youth smiled triumphantly, leading the little one onto the stone bridge.
“Big Brother, was that qinggong (lightness kung fu) just now?” The little one lightly asked, swinging her hand.
“Mhm.” Ah, the feeling of being admired by his sister was fantastic, filling him with joy.
“Please teach me, Big Brother.”
“What does a girl need martial arts for?” He teased deliberately.
“Learning martial arts is just like eating candy, why should it be divided by gender?” The little one smiled mischievously, taking out another piece of Jin Su Candy and gesturing for him to bend down, “Here.” She playfully pinched the youth’s nose, forcing him to open his lips, “If you eat my candy, big brother, it means you agree.”
“Sneaky little brat.” The sweet taste flowed into his heart; he affectionately tapped her forehead, “When father and I return victorious, I will teach you.”
“Mm!”
Under the small bridge adorned with lotus flowers and water chestnuts, the winds of late summer warmed memories...
“...” Han Yuesha woke abruptly from his dream, his chest rising and falling slightly. He stared unblinkingly at the bed canopy, his breathing subtly uneven.
For three consecutive nights, he dreamed as soon as he closed his eyes, and all he saw were visions of Qingqing from his childhood. His right hand moved to his left chest; his heartbeat quickened, something he rarely felt since the family’s change.
“Mmm...” Dancong beside him muttered, seemingly about to wake. He considerately shifted towards the edge of the bed to allow her to turn over easily, “Is it dawn already, husband?”
“Not yet.” The tranquil night made his voice sound especially clear.
“Hmm?” Dancong brushed aside the long hair covering her face, squinting her eyes, “What's wrong?”
“Nothing.” He embraced his wife, gently stroking her back, “It’s nothing, go back to sleep.”
“Xiao.” Her soft arm draped over his neck; the faint scent of milk in her embrace made him feel at ease, “Still worried about your sister?”
“Mm.” He lowered his head, burying himself in her luscious hair.
“I knew it...” Dancong sighed, placing her hands on his cheeks, her fingertips tracing the scar, “Ever since your sister returned to the prime minister's residence, you haven't slept well.”
He wrapped his arms around her waist, feeling the movements of the baby in her belly: “I'm sorry, did I disturb you?”
“No.” She embraced her beloved husband tightly, “Xiao.”
“Hmm?”
“Don't worry, the neighbors around the prime minister's residence are no ordinary people; your sister is safe.”
“Hmph.” Han Yuesha lifted his head from between his fingers, his deep eyes flashing with unusual brilliance, “That’s precisely what makes it unsafe.”
In his view, neither the Prince nor Lord Ding were worthy of his sister Qingqing. His sister Qingqing, ever since she was young, has been a perceptive and thoughtful good girl.
“You...” Dancong lightly pounded his hard chest, “No wonder there are rumors outside that the reason Madam Han rarely appears is because she has a brother who dotes on her like crazy.”
“Nonsense.” He scolded lightly, his embarrassed tone causing her to laugh again.
After a while, he let out a soft sigh: “Shortly after Qingqing was born, an uncle who understood feng shui came to visit our old home. He praised our General’s Residence repeatedly, saying that within two generations, our family would surely produce two generals, a prime minister, and a queen, possessing unparalleled noble aura.”
“The two generals are Grandfather and you.” Dancong played with his temples, lazily speaking, “One prime minister naturally refers to our sister, and one queen?” As she spoke, she felt the person in front of her stiffen slightly. Without mentioning other branches, the main lineage of the Han family had only two members remaining this generation, naturally referring to…
Sigh, debts of love, she secretly lamented.
“I won't let our family suffer any more injustice.” His tone was resolute, “This position of prime minister doesn't matter; Qingqing must leave the court, she must.”
“Mm, didn’t His Highness the Ninth Prince agree? Calm down.” She gently pressed her ten fingers into his hair, applying gentle pressure, “Relax, Xiao, relax.”
He comfortably mumbled, leaning closer to her cheek. Slowly, his large hand covered her ears, and he whispered faintly: “Dancong, I…you.”
Her slender body trembled, and she uncovered her ears: “What did you say?” Full of anticipation, unable to suppress her joy, “Say it again.”
“Sleep.”
“Not that sentence.” She lightly pinched his iron-hard arm.
“Sleep.” His voice was tinged with something unusual, firmly pulling his beloved wife close without room for refusal.
“Despicable…” She complained, suddenly feeling her cheek flush with warmth, the sensation spreading to her heart. This shy man, how much longer would it take for him to utter those words?
She quietly anticipated, a smile curving her lips.
My dear sister, you and Lord Ding will surely be this happy too, definitely.
Closing her eyes, she accompanied him into dreams, their synchronized breathing painting a serene stillness in the room…
...
No moon tonight, the east wind blew down a rain of flowers.
Under the lamp, Ling Yiran gazed downward, his peach blossom eyes slightly narrowing.
Since he was sixteen, each step he took was extremely precise. And ascending the throne of Qing was only the first step. He slightly raised his chin, facing the Kunyu map, his mesmerizing eyes filled with dominance.
Qing is located in the eastern land of Shen Kun, west bordering the fierce Yong, and north connecting with the brave Yi. Then, his sharp eyes settled on a speck of land in the middle.
Right, there is also the unfathomable Mianzhou.
Thinking of this, his mood inexplicably worsened. He put down his pen, lazily resting his cheek on his hand against the candlelight.
He had promised that girl; five years later, he would give her an eighth day of the eighth month without war. It was time to make arrangements.
Form distant alliances and attack nearby enemies, gradually nibbling away at Jingtu, firmly controlling Yi country, and then...
His keen eyes, like sharp arrows, pierced straight into the narrow Chen Yong. King Ming, after hiding the remnants of the defeated army in Wuming Valley, managed to poison Chen Wei undetected, achieving his goal, but his vision was still short-sighted.
Dark pupils tinged with mockery, his gaze slowly rose.
Chen Shao, do you really not know? That bookish, rule-abiding fool King Liang despises those who disrupt norms the most, and your act of killing your brother and nephew precisely violates his greatest taboo. By then, instead of saving you, the Liang kingdom will stand with our country. This hall can almost foresee your demise.
A gentle breeze blew, the flickering candlelight casting eerie shadows on his handsome face. He absentmindedly caressed the jade pendant at his waist, his fingertips full of smooth coolness.
Even sending coal in snowy weather requires delivering it properly. Ling Yiran chuckled to himself. Under his instigation, Father agreed to Yan Jiande’s marriage proposal, consenting to marry off Princess Wang No. 19, the younger sister of Little Twelve. So what if Shangguan Wuyan is pregnant? Seventh Brother, have you forgotten that King Yi Yan Zhen is old?
His deep eyes carried a chilling fear.
More than ten years ago, you wanted to destroy this hall. More than ten years later, you used the same trick on Qingqing. Ling Chelan, you truly have tired of living.
Instead of anger, he laughed, picking up the brush pensively.
Let this hall think carefully. Should I sever your left arm or right arm first? Or perhaps release Third Brother to settle accounts with Second Brother along with your past? But before that, there is still one matter to attend to.
The saturated brush tip held a drop of ink, reluctant to fall for a long time.
Today, before I even opened my mouth, Father appointed Qingqing as an envoy to send Nineteenth Sister off in a grand wedding to the north. Was this a coincidence or...
He lightly tapped the table with the pen horizontally, blooming ink flowers on the slightly yellow paper.
Carefully thinking about it, Father’s gaze seemed to carry deep meaning. Could it be that I’ve been exposed?
Ling Yiran had always been self-assured, but when it came to Qingqing, he couldn’t help but doubt himself.
According to his previous plan, Qingqing entering the court for half a year opened a new pattern for the humble families. Then, faking her death to retreat—it was the perfect opportunity for a golden cicada shedding its shell. If Father knowingly allowed this and intentionally let her go, it could only mean one thing.
Compared to the Left Chancellor, Qingqing held a more important position in Father’s heart, and it coincided with his own thoughts.
Ling Yiran smiled like a warm breeze, his eyes intoxicated by the orange glow.
“Master.” A low male voice came with the wind.
His mind abruptly focused, sitting upright: “How is it?”
“Seventh Prince plans to make a move at Mirror Gorge.”
Upon hearing this, he held the candle and walked to the wall, his gaze locking on the junction of Qing and Yi. Here, he lightly pointed on the map.
Mirror Gorge, a natural stronghold and a necessary passage for northern water routes. Making a move here could not only eliminate Qingqing and sabotage the marriage alliance but also falsely attribute the blame to the summer flood of Chi River, clearing oneself entirely. Seventh Brother is indeed seasoned.
“Cheng Bi.” He called softly.
“Subordinate is here.”
“Dispatch a few experts from the Gate to accompany and protect.” He paced slowly, his raven hair gently swaying in the wind.
“Yes, subordinate will personally handle everything, ensuring...”
“Cheng Bi.” He stopped walking, speaking softly, “There is a task only you can accomplish.”
“Master!”
His beautiful peach blossom eyes suddenly narrowed, a sharp light piercing through the window crack directly landing on the tassel at the man's waist: “Who do you want to go for?”
One sentence struck Lin Chengbi speechless, leaving him rooted to the spot, unable to speak for a long time.
“Is it Zhuque?” Ling Yiran moved to the window, a ripple passing through his shadowy eyes, “Or Princess Xiangrui?”
“Master...”
“What? Do you think you can hide it from this hall?” He glanced at the window below, his gaze spreading like the boundless dark night, “Nineteenth Sister treasures that jade piece, wearing it like a precious ornament on her waist. If this hall couldn’t see through that, I’d be blind.”
Lin Chengbi’s brow furrowed slightly, wanting to ask but not daring to open his mouth.
“Are you wondering why this hall, knowing this, still sent you to the palace?”
“Master’s wisdom...”
“Cheng Bi.” Ling Yiran softened his tone, gently asking, “How many years have you followed this hall?”
“Fourteen springs have passed.”
Ling Yiran pushed open the window, solemnly looking at the despondent face: “Your loyalty is seen by this hall, and naturally, I will plan for you. Why do you make such an expression? Do you think this hall is a heartless person?”
“Subordinate dares not.”
“Hmph.” Ling Yiran uttered in displeasure, “Nineteenth Sister must marry this time; as a princess, it is her duty.” And as the younger sister of Twelfth Brother, she is easier to control. He spoke half and concealed half, never revealing more than necessary. “If I hadn’t seen clearly, I might have thought you were infatuated with Xiangrui.”
Huh? Lin Chengbi looked up, full of confusion.
“If you don’t understand, think slowly.” Ling Yiran raised an eyebrow, sneering, “Once this hall takes over Yi country, if you can still show such an expression then, I will marry Xiangrui to you.”
“Master...” Hearing this, Lin Chengbi was deeply moved.
“Well, go arrange the manpower.” Ling Yiran closed the wooden window, a hint of ruthlessness hidden between his brows, “Don’t forget to remind the guards. Although this time we’re letting the Left Chancellor fake her death smoothly, if Qingqing suffers even the slightest injury, tell them to compensate with their lives.”
“Yes.” The shadow on the window gradually faded.
Ling Yiran half-turned his body, gazing vacantly at Mianzhou on the map.
Lord Ding, even if you follow, what can you do? In the end, she will still return. Who can help it if she is a silly girl?
At some point, that red bean had quietly sprouted in his heart, silently and robustly growing into a towering tree. Tonight, he lay nestled among the dense branches, thinking of her with rapturous longing late into the night. He thought until his emotions were uncontrollable, until his heartbeat thundered like a drum, until sleep eluded him.
His handsome eyes shimmered with terrifying affection, his tightly clenched right fist bulging with veins.
Come quickly, Qingqing, come quickly. He could barely wait.
...
The gentle April breeze softly blew, rustling the flowing water, warming the summer sun, and wafting the fragrance of peonies throughout the garden.
Her delicate white hand brushed her forehead, and her vision gradually cleared. So it was all a dream, making her truly believe she had devoured someone alive in her beastly frenzy. She clutched the thin quilt tightly, unsure whether the feelings surging in her heart were relief or regret.
The pale blue bed curtains gently swayed, rippling with the wind's grace. She sighed softly and looked towards the busy figure outside the curtain: “Yan Qiu.”
The dark blue slender figure paused slightly: “Master, you're awake.”
“Mm.” She brushed the long hair from her cheek, lazily replying, “How long have I slept?”
“Exactly three days and four nights.”
“Ah...” No wonder she almost mistook the illusion for reality; she had slept so long, dreamed so long. At this thought, a blush tinged her clear beauty, and she modestly bowed her head, shifting the topic guiltily: “Have there been any unusual movements these past few days?”
“Yesterday, the palace sent an imperial decree. His Majesty has appointed you to escort Princess Xiangrui on her distant marriage to strengthen the friendship between Qing and Yi countries.”
“Eh?” She sat up, muttering to herself, “Originally, it wasn't me who was chosen.”
Yan Qiu paused for a moment and then said, “Ninth Prince said, this is a great opportunity for Master to restore your true identity.”
“I understand.” She suddenly realized it was Yun Zhi secretly orchestrating things behind the scenes. It was time to leave; the King’s words still echoed in her ears, making her feel uneasy.
“Master.” The shadow outside the curtain moved, Yan Qiu's tone somewhat urgent.
“Hmm?” She focused and responded.
“In the future...” The slender figure hesitated slightly, his voice humble, “In the future... can Yan Qiu still follow you?”
The person inside the curtain laughed, causing him to panic, instinctively clutching his clothes tighter.
“Of course.” At some point, she no longer needed to fake her voice; her soft feminine voice gently rang out, “I said you are my younger brother.”
This sentence dispelled the unease in his heart, and his curled fingers slowly straightened: “Mm...” His eyes slightly moistened as he turned to look at the bedside. From now on, let time belong to those in love; after all, only when looking at this Marquis does Master show a happy expression.
His master, his sister.
His enchanting eyes curved into crescent moons, his delicate diamond-shaped lips bloomed into a smile: “If there's nothing else, Yan Qiu will take his leave.”
As he reached the door, a voice called out from behind: “Wait.”
He stood still, watching the dust dance in the wine-colored warm sunlight.
“Yan Qiu, before leaving Yundu, I still need to register your household registration.”
Yes, with household registration, he would no longer be considered livestock. In the past, such good fortune was something he dared not even dream of.
“The household registration requires a surname.”
His eyebrows twitched slightly, sorrow welling up in his eyes, but he didn’t have one.
“A few days ago, I happened to learn your original surname.”
A sound like thunder exploded in his thoughts.
“You originally surnamed Zhang, born on the seventeenth day of the twelfth month, Year Nine of Tianzhong, at the beginning of the Weishi hour.” After a pause, that person also remained silent, standing fixedly in place. She sighed deeply and continued, “Yan Qiu, don't you ask how I know?”
The young man lowered his eyes, hiding the turbulent emotions within: “That is Master’s business.”
Han Yue Xia stared intently outside the curtain, gently advising: “Actually, these years haven’t been easy for her either; why torment yourself...”
“Master!” Yan Qiu interrupted loudly, solemnly stating, “On the household registration, write Zhang Mi, bow and arrow Mi.”
She nodded slightly: “Alright.”
“Master, please rest. Yan...” He took a step forward, his footing somewhat unsteady, “Zhang Mi will take his leave first.”
“Mi'er, today I will give you a courtesy name.” She closed her eyes, meaningfully uttering softly, “Yuan Xing.”
The room was so quiet that the breath of the wind could almost be heard. After a while, a voice filled with indescribable emotion faintly sounded: “Zhang Mi thanks Master for bestowing this character.” With that, he closed the door and left.
Yue Xia leaned against the bed, sighing secretly. Suddenly, feeling the breeze brush her cheek, she abruptly opened her eyes.
“Qingqing.”
Meeting those deep phoenix eyes directly, the boundless spring-like dream surged over her like a tidal wave, and her face erupted like a volcano.
“He will understand.” Ye Jinglan lifted the gauze curtain, deeply gazing at that beautiful face as if trying to look into her soul, “This time, I will send you off.”
“Send me?” Yue Xia lowered her head, mumbling, feeling two burning gazes scorch her cheeks, then seep into her skin, swiftly heating her heart.
“To escort you northward and return to Mianzhou on the way.” He sat on the edge of the bed, leaning down so she had nowhere to escape.
“You’re going back?” She raised her head, unwittingly failing to notice the nearness of the warm male presence.
The dense lashes cast a faint shadow on her face, that ethereal beauty making him uncontrollably captivated. “Qingqing.” The affection in his chest heated up, his clear voice tinged with restraint, his slender fingers lightly caressing her features.
“Let’s get married.”
The silken, low, steady masculine voice slid past her ear, effortlessly bewitching her mind.
“Okay.” She heard herself whisper softly.
In the instant they embraced, only two fervent hearts remained.
And then a long kiss unfolded, like thousands of lines of poetry, softly murmuring between lips and teeth...
On the ninth day of the fourth month of the second year of Chaos, Princess Xiangrui, the nineteenth daughter of Qinglong Wang, married far away to Yi country, accompanied by Left Chancellor Feng Yunqing. Coincidentally, Marquis Ding Ye Jinglan set out to return to Mianzhou. On the Chi River, a hundred miles of tall ships sailed, their banners blocking the sun—it was a grand sight indeed.
However, on the twenty-first day of the fourth month, an ambush occurred unexpectedly at the Twin Gorges of Hu Prefecture. The main ship sank entirely, and Feng Yunqing perished valiantly in battle. Thus, Qing Country no longer had its young chancellor; the vibrant spring moon was forever a thing of the past.
... Zhang Mi, “Chronicles of Warring States? Qing Records”
...
The sky was as vast as the sea, the flowing water like clouds, the fierce river winds cooling the summer, like a ferocious tiger tearing at the crimson official robe.
“Lou Jing, these past few months have been tough on you.” Feng Yunqing stood on the Chi River dam, her slightly loose long hair whipping against her delicate false face, adding a touch of allure.
“No, no, not at all.” He Meng scratched his head, smiling earnestly.
“Now, everything in Yundu has turned upside down; all key positions are filled with our people.” Feng Yunqing turned around, a faint smile dimming the summer light, “Lou Jing, soon you can return to Yundu.”
“Master.” He Meng put aside his usual shyness, his tall and sturdy body unmoving in the wind, “This subordinate only wishes to stay in Hu Prefecture to complete the Chi River project. I hope Master will grant my wish.”
Feng Yunqing slightly raised her eyebrows, unable to hide her surprise.
“This subordinate has always been slow-witted, lagging half a step behind others in both studying and official duties. As Confucius said, every person has strengths and weaknesses, and skills vary. In the past, this subordinate entered the court as an advisory official through the help of my father-in-law. But I am naturally clumsy with words, resulting in few achievements over the years.” His square face was full of shame; he took a deep breath and, facing the summer breeze, continued, “Master, conquering this river has been my long-standing wish.”
“Oh?” Feng Yunqing faced him with her hands clasped behind her back.
He Meng lowered his head to avoid the summer sun, his eyes dimming slightly: “More than ten years ago, the Chi River experienced a flood. The towering waves washed away the embankments and swept away my father, who was a river worker.”
Feng Yunqing glanced down at her feet, seeing more than a thousand river workers carrying stones and wood on the riverbank, their sweaty chests gleaming dazzlingly under the sun.
“After that, my mother supported us by sewing, raising me and my three brothers. At the age of nineteen, I saved my father-in-law from bandits on my way to the academy, and my life changed completely. He Meng did not marry into a noble family for anything else; it was because my father-in-law had an open heart and righteous spirit. I respect and admire him, and I wish to care for him in his old age.” His voice gradually slowed and softened, his thick lips curling upwards, “When I told my family about taking on the Chi River project, my wife had no complaints. She virtuously prepared my belongings. And my father-in-law talked with me all night, saying that he initially brought me into politics because he saw talent in my ability to manage water. Now that I can showcase my talents, he is very pleased.”
“Censor He is truly an admirable person.” She sighed.
“Yes.” He Meng's face showed pride. He extended his massive arms toward the mighty torrent of the Chi River, his gray sleeves billowing in the wind, “This river is both the mother of us Qing people and the killer who took my father and brothers, Master.” He turned slightly, clasping his fists in a respectful bow, “Even if it takes my entire life, He Meng will tame its wild nature. I hope Master will grant my wish.”
“Alright.” Feng Yunqing took the koi knot symbolizing a high-ranking official from her chest button and solemnly hung it on He Meng.
“Master?” He Meng looked at her with trepidation, turning back into a giant timid rabbit, “This...this is inappropriate...”
“Keep it.” Feng Yunqing pressed his large palm firmly, leaving no room for refusal. Looking at that delicate hand which didn’t resemble a man’s, He Meng's eyes flashed with a hint of confusion.
“Lou Jing, I am not as good as you.” She praised sincerely.
He Meng was so shocked he couldn’t speak, frozen in place.
“Looking across the entire court, all officials scramble for personal gain, including myself.” She gazed at this simple-minded man, her eyes flickering slightly, “Only Lou Jing can embrace the people wholeheartedly and act selflessly. A hundred years later, Lou Jing will surely be celebrated by all, with boundless merit and eternal fame.”
“Master...” His throat tightened, tears welling up in his eyes. To work under such an upright and broad-minded master was another stroke of luck in his life.
“Master!” In the distance, Zhuque roared loudly, “The supplies are all loaded, stop dawdling!”
Hearing this, the workers on the dam were startled, waiting for the important person to lose their temper.
“Understood!” Contrary to everyone's expectations, there was no trace of anger on Feng Yunqing's face, “Lou Jing, I'm leaving.”
“Let this subordinate see you off.”
“No need.” She waved her hand, “The flood season is approaching, go attend to your duties.”
These words hit the nail on the head. He Meng, upon hearing them, no longer feigned politeness, bending down respectfully, “This subordinate bids farewell to Master.”
He Meng watched her leave, watching her walk down the long embankment. Along the way, she seemed to be bumped by someone. As usual, she remained approachable, helping up a trembling young river worker who had knelt down. Her slight smile made an eight-foot-tall man gaze at her in awe. Her figure, outlined by the river wind, was extremely slender, making one worry she might be blown away. Even so, her steps remained steady, moving one by one towards the riverbank.
After a while, He Meng suddenly snapped to attention: “Ah, I forgot to tell Master that you can only pass through one side of the Twin Gorges.”
For this water control project, he employed the “constricted water flushing sand method.” Thus, during the ebb tide at sunset, the water level in the western Yin Gorge would drop sharply, causing deep-draft ships to run aground.
He looked towards the luxurious colorful ship standing at the head of the river, scratching his head.
Even if they took the Yin Gorge, it wouldn't matter; just wait two or three hours for the tide to rise again. Hmm, no problem, should be fine. He reassured himself and looked closely again.
Only to see the crimson wide robe elegantly fluttering, the graceful figure gradually receding further and further, eventually disappearing into the wind...
...
In the third-floor stateroom, Feng Wuyu held a cup of green tea, exchanging glances with Song Baoyan.
Am I seeing things wrong? Is the young master grinning foolishly?
Congratulations, your eyesight is fine.
“Brother Ye?” Wangshan Lang waved his hand, smiling innocently.
The faint upward curve of his lips suddenly dropped, and Ye Jinglan resumed his cold demeanor: “What is it?”
“Thanks to Brother Ye, my wife and I have a favorable wind to sail with.”
Ye Jinglan silently looked at him, knowing this sly fox certainly wasn't just expressing gratitude.
“Just hate that little junior sister lured my wife onto the main ship ahead, leaving me alone and lonely.” He lowered his face, full of sorrow, “Brother Ye, do you think Little Junior Sister deserves punishment?”
It was clearly the couple’s abnormal behavior, one chasing and one hiding, which made Madam go to Miss. Song Baoyan felt both annoyed and angry at Feng Wuyu’s inability to distinguish right from wrong, amazed to find someone even better at talking nonsense than him.
Ye Jinglan focused inwardly, eyes on his nose, nose on his heart, leisurely sipping his tea.
“When she fakes her death, this senior brother will bring her back to Lixin Valley.” Feng Wuyu flipped the teacup lid, smiling warmly, “This outing, this girl has caused enough trouble. It’s time for her to return and cultivate herself, perhaps for three to five years.”
A pair of phoenix eyes turned as cold as a chilly pond: “Qingqing has already agreed to marry me.”
Oh! So that’s how it is! Song Baoyan admired the expert at extracting information, truly impressed. He stealthily moved towards the door, unnoticed by the two, and bolted out of the stateroom, running wildly into the wind: Father! Father! Your second son has finally completed his mission, bringing the great news of the young master's impending marriage!
“Oh?” Over here, Feng Wuyu wasn't satisfied yet. He flicked his fingertips and smiled, “Has General Han agreed to this?”
Ye Jinglan had returned to his usual self, ignoring the question.
“It seems not.” Amber-golden pupils shifted to the right, Feng Wuyu pretended to be angry, “Without family members present at the wedding, Brother Ye, do you want Qingqing to live with regret forever?”
Ye Jinglan slowly raised his eyes, his sharp gaze nearly breaking Feng Wuyu’s composure.
After a long pause, he reluctantly spoke, as if each word pained him: “Please, Brother Wuyu, attend the ceremony.”
“Not impossible.” Feng Wuyu coyly shifted his gaze, “But, this title needs to be adjusted.”
Phoenix eyes slightly darkened as Ye Jinglan silently stared at the floating tea leaves in his cup.
“Sister-in-law, don't you agree?”
Ye Xiuyuan automatically tuned out and began to close his eyes for some rest.
Not talking? Hmph, there are always ways to make you speak. Feng Wuyu put down the teacup and slowly curved his lips upwards. This way, the journey wouldn't be boring at all.
...
“The way to victory?” Feng Yunqing stared in disbelief at the person standing with hands on hips.
“Yes.” Ignoring the strange looks from others, the little bird pulled over her cross-dressed younger sister and whispered in her ear, “I feel sorry for you being eaten up by that icy Night guy, so I'm kindly teaching you the way to victory between men and women.”
“Victory?” Feng Yunqing laughed as she looked at the little bird's slightly rounded belly and gently pushed away her entanglement.
“What?” The little bird raised her head, pretending to be tough. “You don't believe me?”
“Hahaha.” Feng Yunqing turned around, laughing uncontrollably.
The little bird’s face fell, pulling over Ruming who was thinking of her lover, and whined: “Big Sister, look, she's laughing at me!”
Feng Yunqing clutched her stomach, almost unable to straighten up: “If I really wanted to ask about the way to victory, I shouldn’t have asked you, right?”
The little bird narrowed her eyes dangerously, her pretty face clouded with anger.
Feng Yunqing looked at the large ship flying the Mianzhou flag behind her and mischievously raised an eyebrow.
“You!” The little bird rolled up her sleeves, ready to pounce, but was caught firmly.
“How is your body now, Yanye? Have you forgotten again?” Ruming took on the demeanor of an elder sister and scolded softly.
“Sister, she's bullying me.” The little bird relaxed her body but still persisted.
Ruming gently consoled the defeated little bird and gave someone a meaningful glance. Feng Yunqing touched her nose knowingly and tactfully left the stern.
While walking, the river breeze carried the scent of alcohol past her quickly. She looked around and saw Zhuque sitting on the mast with a wine jar, his front soaked, looking desolate.
This guy, she suppressed her smile and lightly stepped up.
“What are you doing here?” Yanlu didn't even look at her, just took another swig of wine.
Feng Yunqing snatched the wine jar, lifted her chin, and said, “Drinking.” With that, the strong liquor flowed down her throat.
“I can't believe you're a young lady.” Yanlu glanced at her.
“Why? Can young ladies not drink?” She wiped her delicate jawline; her fine hand was full of fragrant wine. “Let me tell you a secret.”
“What?” Yanlu took another gulp.
“My brother likes to eat candy.”
“Cough... cough...” He choked full-throatedly, “General Han likes sweets?”
“Mm-hmm.” She nodded with a smile.
“You're sure it's that same Han Yuesha, the General who is fearless and unparalleled in battle?”
Feng Yunqing glared at him: “Of course.”
“Unbelievable.” Yanlu hugged the wine jar, shaking his head vigorously, “Unbelievable.”
A stretch of emerald water used the distant mountains as its eyebrows; mist gradually rose, outlining deep green brows. The river breeze played with her beautiful long hair, bringing distant memories.
“My father was a man like a celestial god.” As the boat sailed, the clouds moved along, their shadows reflected in her eyes, seemingly ready to condense into rain. “We siblings admired him greatly. My brother revered Father to the point of blindly following and imitating everything he did. Father said real men shouldn't cry, so my brother didn't shed a tear even when a horse broke two of his ribs. Father also said candy was for girls, so even though my brother liked sweets, he would suppress himself endlessly.” In the soft sunlight, her eyes shimmered with tenderness, “Before my brother's first campaign, which was also Father's last, I forced a piece of candy into his hand. Though he complained verbally, his eyes and brows were smiling.”
Yanlu stared blankly at her, watching that expression both sad and happy.
“At that time, I said that some things aren’t divided by gender, whether it’s practicing martial arts or eating candy.” She rested on her arms, tilting her head with a warm smile, “Whether it’s crying or heartbreak.”
A sharp chord suddenly struck, and Yanlu hastily turned his gaze, unable to hide his pain.
“A Lu.” She turned his face towards hers, eye to eye, and said firmly, “Don’t suppress your emotions. If you want to cry, then cry.”
“Hmph, you woman.” He smiled, bitter tears trickling out of the corners of his eyes, “You woman...” He continued to smile, the springs in his eyes forming a babbling brook silently pouring out the secrets in his heart, “You...” He choked up, his smile becoming even more radiant.
High up on the mast, she cried with him, laughed with him, drank with him, and acted silly with him. Whether it was his sorrowful mood or her mourning for the past, they released it all.
Until the red sun sank behind the western mountains, the tears on his face were dried by the wind: “In theory, you’re a talented and beautiful woman with a great personality, but why haven’t I fallen in love with you?”
“You don’t know this?” Feng Yunqing snatched the wine jar and glared at him.
Yanlu looked at her extremely sincerely: “I hope Left Chancellor will enlighten me.”
“You're stupid.”
“You! I take back what I just said!”
“Hey.” Feng Yunqing tapped his shoulder.
“What.”
She tilted her chin: “The wine’s gone, go get some more.”
“Why should I go?” Yanlu squinted his swollen eyes.
“You’re a man.” She raised her eyebrows assertively.
“Tsk, you don’t act like a woman either.” Despite his words, he still took the wine jar. Just as he was about to jump down, a group of colorful clothes came out from the second floor ‘Feilu.’
“It's rare for the princess to leave the cabin, it's good to move around.” She nodded slightly and saw this person staring closely at Xiang Rui, and managed to stop, the pain in her eyes spreading out again.
“A Lu?” She furrowed her brow, suspicion rising.
“Master.” His gaze was tightly fixed on the gourd jade pendant at the princess's waist, a hint of sarcasm on his lips, “Some things are indeed divided by gender.”
She didn’t ask, just watched quietly.
“If the person you love doesn’t love you back, what would you do?” The thin twilight dimmed the light and shadow in his eyes.
“I would leave.”
“And I...” Yanlu closed his eyes, his tone extremely gentle, “would fulfill him.”
“A Lu.” She sighed.
“Hmm?” He murmured softly.
“You’re a fool.”
“I know.”
Though the setting sun blurred the mask on his face, it clarified the smile on his lips.
“Master!” A loud shout came from under the mast.
She patted Yanlu's shoulder and spun to jump down: “What is it?”
Zhang Mi smelled the alcohol on her and couldn't help but frown: “Even if Lord Ding isn’t here, you still need to restrain yourself.”
“You child, you think I’m an alcoholic.” She waved her sleeve to blow away the smell on her body, “Tell me, what is it?”
Zhang Mi pointed to the bow of the ship: “You’ll understand when you see.”
Feng Yunqing glared at him and quickly walked onto the gunwale: “How could this happen?”
Ahead, large and small fishing boats and merchant ships were densely blocked, like duckweed covering the river, hiding the water’s color.
“Not only ahead, but many civilian boats are squeezed between the main ship and other large ships.” Zhang Mi looked towards the stern; the Qinglong flag of Mianzhou had already drifted somewhat far.
“Isn’t this Shuangsheng Gorge?” Using the remaining sunlight, Feng Yunqing looked far into the distance and saw a steep peak towering into the clouds, like an axe splitting Chi River into two streams. The stream on the left was slightly narrower, on the shady side of the mountain, with only a few leisurely fishing boats floating, unlike the crowded right side.
“Why doesn't anyone go that way?” She questioned.
Zhang Mi shook his head, and the captain steering the ship approached Feng Yunqing, smiling: “Left Chancellor, the narrow side is called Yin Gorge. Legend has it that ghosts appear there at night, so superstitious boatmen avoid taking that route.”
“Ghosts?” She shook her head and chuckled, “What’s there to fear for those with a clear conscience?”
“Master speaks wisely.” The captain echoed compliantly.
“Princess! Princess!” A series of startled cries came from the Feilu. Yunqing turned to look, and after a while, saw a female official running over.
“Left Chancellor.” She bowed hurriedly while catching her breath, “The Princess is severely seasick. Please let us dock as soon as possible.”
“Mm, I understand.” Feng Yunqing nodded slightly, pondered for a moment, and then looked at the captain, “Have you ever passed through Yin Gorge?”
“Not less than ten times.” The lean man respectfully nodded, silently adding in his mind that it was before the dam was built. A flash of something flickered in his lowered eyes, unseen by anyone.
“Are you sure it’s safe?” Feng Yunqing asked again.
“I’m sure.”
“Then let’s take the shortcut.” Feng Yunqing looked at the female official, “Before the moon rises, we should reach Quecheng, the capital of Hu Prefecture. Please have the Princess endure a little longer.”
“Yes.”
Under the half-light, half-dark sky, the 100-foot ship turned clumsily, carrying a boatload of evening sunlight toward the Yin Gorge full of mountain demons and water ghosts.
...
Yundu, Ninghou Mansion.
Under the lamp, Ling Yiran elegantly dozed off with his hand supporting his cheek. Suddenly, he heard a slight sound and abruptly opened his eyes: “Who?” His heartbeat was unusually fast, making him inexplicably annoyed.
“Scram!” Outside the door came a light reprimand from Liuyao, as if someone was crying and leaving, “Reporting to Master, it was two ignorant maids who broke the glass cup.”
Just breaking something?
Ling Yiran shook open the robe on his shoulders and looked vacantly at the Kunyu map. With each step, the unease in his heart grew stronger.
He never believed in omens, but why was he so anxious, so uneasy that he felt ominous vibes.
“Cheng Bi.” He softly called.
“Subordinate is here.” A shadow flashed outside the window.
“Are you sure Seventh Brother will strike at Jing Gorge?” He looked at the red line representing rivers on the map and asked softly.
“Subordinate is sure.”
“Mm.” He nodded slightly, his fingertips slowly moving along that line. Suddenly, his hand paused, and he muttered softly, “This time, will I miss anything like I did ten years ago?”
That time losing her, he already felt it wasn't just regret. If this time again...
Hearing his own sigh, Ling Yiran angrily interrupted his thoughts. Damn, what am I thinking about!
“Master won't miss anything.”
The voice outside the window was very firm, firm enough to make him start believing in himself again.
The boundless night descended, silent and unnoticed.
...
A huge tremor on the deck made Feng Yunqing steady herself and look down at the ship. The black river water rapidly receded, and water marks appeared on the deck.
“Low tide?” Although she didn't understand water patterns well, she could still see some peculiarities. She raised her head and saw the cliffs standing like swords, the river hanging like a curtain. The massive ship was stuck in Yin Gorge, unable to advance or retreat for the moment.
By the light of the torches on the ship, she looked up again. The mountain was ten thousand feet high, dangerous rocks closing in, no moonlight in the gorge. The gnarled branches jutting out from the cliff walls were elongated by the firelight, grinning like fiends, making one shiver uncontrollably.
“Gu Yi.” She vigilantly looked around and beckoned the guards, “Send someone to protect the princess.”
Before the person could respond, countless whistles sounded in the air, magnified infinitely in the quiet, vast gorge.
“Dodge!” Feng Yunqing shouted, drawing the soft sword from her waist and swiftly waving it. The mesmerizing silver light wove into a white silk, densely covering her figure.
Screams echoed on the deck. Palace maids without strength were firmly pinned by iron hooks flying through the air, their crimson blood drowning their rouged lips, watching helplessly as the life drained from their bodies. At this time, hundreds of white shadows slid down the black chains attached to the iron hooks, fluttering down like white butterflies, landing gracefully on the large ship.
“White Butterfly Formation?!” Gu Yi shouted loudly, startling Feng Yunqing to widen her eyes.
“Riyao Sect!” She cursed softly, leaping swiftly up the black ropes.
The soul-piercing sound of the sword slicing through flesh and blood emitted a muffled noise. Her eyes cold and focused, she hooked her left foot on the chain and swung her body horizontally, tearing apart several frenzied “white butterflies” like a gust of wind. Then she wrapped her right foot around the chain, her body hanging upside down. In the dark night, her silver sword gleamed with cold light; her wide robe fluttered, like a spring flower passing through a bloody rain, gracefully falling.
“Mi'er!” Seeing the graceful youth cornered, she let go of the black rope and flew across just in time to cut one of the white butterflies in half before the blade fell, “Mi'er.” She yelled, waking the still-shocked youth, “Mi'er, quickly take out your dagger! Hurry!” She spoke while continuing to dance her sword.
Warm blood splashed into the bewitching pupils, burning like fire. Zhang Mi trembled as he drew the dagger from his boot, trying hard to stay calm. Imitating her ruthlessness, imitating her decisiveness, he clumsily wielded the short dagger. Suddenly, his hand felt sticky—he realized in astonishment that he had wounded an assassin. Unprecedented panic and fear overwhelmed him as he blankly watched the person spew blood and then lunge ferociously at him.
Am I going to die? Am I going to die? Buzzing in his ears, he despairingly counted his heartbeats, hearing nothing else.
“Raise your hand!” A fierce shout shattered the bell jar trapping him. Instinctively raising his arm, a wave of warm blood splashed onto his face. He blinked, fresh red blood dripping from his eyelashes. Through the blurred vision, he saw a white-clad person pinned before him, their vicious eyes slowly lowering, their increasingly lifeless gaze finally resting on the dagger embedded in their chest.
He killed someone!
Zhang Mi held his breath, watching the corpse slowly slide down. He clearly heard the terrifying light sound of the dagger sliding out of flesh and blood.
“Behind you!”
He frantically turned with his bloody dagger, the dripping tip slashing something with a strange sound like tearing silk. He stared at the white figure writhing in pain, clutching their eyes, momentarily losing his mind. But before he could process it, he heard that familiar female voice again: “To the left.” Zhang Mi dodged and stabbed as instructed, allowing the blood to envelop him. Gradually, he began to understand.
Tonight, if you don’t kill, you’ll be killed.
Thus, from initially being a puppet controlled by strings to acting intentionally later on, under her wings, he killed his first, second, ... person. The young heart stopped trembling, gripping the dagger tightly as he stood behind her. Watching her move like flowing clouds and painted poetry, he felt for the first time that fate was in his own hands.
The butterfly rain danced chaotically in the air, the eastern wind slaughtering them only for them to multiply again.
The ground was littered with mutilated corpses, barely catching a breath before being surrounded by white shadows. Feng Yunqing took a deep breath and charged through dozens of bodies once more.
“Master!” Gu Yi jumped down from the second-floor Feilu, holding the petite princess.
“What about the other guards?” Feng Yunqing raced alongside him like a streak of light, tearing apart the “white butterflies” attacking from all directions.
“All dead.” His voice was faint and weak.
“You’re injured?” Feng Yunqing supported Gu Yi, who was about to fall, and was surprised to find an iron hook embedded in his back. “Quickly put down the princess!”
“But...” Gu Yi gritted his teeth, his facial muscles uncontrollably trembling.
“You, come down and walk yourself!” Feng Yunqing pointed at the princess and roared fiercely.
“The Imperial Princess's legs are weak...” Xiang Rui clutched onto Gu Yi’s robe, unwilling to let go.
Feng Yunqing swung her long sword, slicing off Gu Yi's sleeve. Xiang Rui grunted and slid down instantly. She fell to her knees, raising her head angrily. The instigator was supporting the injured guard with one hand while wielding her sword to protect her, her beautiful eyes filled with stubbornness.
“Your Highness.” Zhang Mi extended his hand, helping her up from the ground.
“Is he really only sixteen?” Xiang Rui lifted her skirt, closely following Zhang Mi's side.
“Yes.” Zhang Mi looked at the handsome red figure in front of him and suddenly realized that his wounds didn't hurt as much anymore.
“I am also sixteen.” Xiang Rui wiped the blood from her face, quickening her pace unconsciously. “I won’t lose to him!”
It felt like she was wearing a wet quilt, so heavy she could barely breathe. Feng Yunqing clearly felt her strength draining. She gritted her teeth, supporting Gu Yi, her wrist moving with the flashing sword.
Just as she cleaved through the white shadows before her, she sensed a gust of wind behind her head, too fast for her to dodge. At this moment, the tall figure leaning on her shoulder suddenly moved slightly. Moments later, she felt a sticky warmth on her back. She turned wide-eyed to see Gu Yi standing behind her, blood gushing from the corner of his mouth.
“Her Highness told me...” His eyes were lifeless, clearly unable to focus anymore. “...to protect Master...”
“Gu Yi!” Her eyes welled up; she watched him fall slowly with a smile.
“Master!” Not far away, Zhang Mi waved his dagger forcefully, his torn sleeve drenched in blood. “Watch out behind you!”
With her feet gripping a short knife on the ground, she leapt into the air, spinning swiftly, two sharp blades crushing two “white butterflies” one after another. Then she landed gracefully, shooting towards the encirclement like an arrow. One slash, two slashes, she relieved Zhang Mi’s crisis. Her long hair fluttered between her brows, so graceful, so light.
“Master, the princess!” Zhang Mi pointed to Xiang Rui, who was in trouble, shouting in alarm.
This time, before she could act, Yan Lu flew down from above, diving into the mass of white shadows.
That fool, does he think he’s highly skilled? Yun Qing anxiously broke through the encirclement. Seeing white shadows sprawled all over the ground, Yan Lu staggered towards her, holding Xiang Rui. Despite the pain twisting his mask, he still smiled carefree.
Zhang Mi exhaled softly, just about to rush forward, when he heard Feng Yunqing scream piercingly beside him: “Let her go, Alu!” With her fierce roar, a shadowy figure like a demon swooped down like an eagle, directly flying towards Xiang Rui.
“Alu!” She hated those persistently entangling white shadows, quickly responding with the simplest moves. “Let her go!”
A flicker of determination flashed in Yan Lu's eyes. He knew he wasn’t adept at martial arts, and understood that doing this would surely lead to his death, yet he still followed his heart.
Amidst the woman’s angry roars, he stepped forward resolutely, shielding Xiang Rui. Simultaneously, a cold iron claw pierced his body, its sharp tips tearing through his flesh. Yet, he merely watched quietly, seeing the large hole ripped through him, seeing the princess frozen in shock, seeing the gourd jade pendant covered in crimson blood. A strange sense of pleasure surged in his heart, forming a beautiful curve on his lips.
The sensation of being torn apart wasn’t much. Compared to heartache, it paled significantly.
He thought lightly, but his body slumped down softly.
“Alu!” He turned his head, watching that woman burst forth desperately, rushing in like a hellish Asura. With a clash of palms, the iron claw inside him vanished abruptly, leaning against the woman’s embrace. He slowly raised his eyes, seeing a shocking streak of red trickling down from the corner of her mouth.
“I’m almost done for…” he laughed happily.
“Shut up!” She glared fiercely.
“My corpse…” The delayed pain overwhelmed his entire body; he vomited blood continuously, smiling at her. “My corpse will be perfect for your fake death…”
“You…shut…the…hell…up!” She cursed through clenched teeth, tears overflowing from the corners of her eyes.
“Who are you?” The black-clothed man retracted his slightly numb left palm, looking curiously at the scene a few steps away.
Her clear, shallow eyes flickered slightly. She handed Yan Lu to Zhang Mi behind her, her wide sleeves fluttering in the dissipated true energy. Suddenly, her slender wrist spun rapidly, emitting a captivating clear sound. In the blink of an eye, she darted to the black-clothed man. Her sword movements were like spring rain, scattering the fragrance of peach blossoms.
Countless phantom images danced before his eyes. The black-clothed man barely avoided fatal strikes, already riddled with bloody wounds. Recalling the damage from the previous palm strike, he immediately summoned thick internal energy, roaring fiercely: “Ah!”
“Pfft!” The light and shadow stilled instantly. She spat out a mouthful of blood, steadying herself by gently pressing her chest. Terrible, he had seen her weakness.
“It’s…” Zhang Mi stared at the black-clad man, his bewitching pupils suddenly dilating. “It’s the Sect Leader…”
“Sect Leader?” Xiang Rui repeated foolishly.
The black-clothed man turned his gaze towards the source of the voice. Upon recognizing the crystal-clear blood moles on Zhang Mi's ears, his eyes sharpened intensely: “You traitor.”
Zhang Mi, carrying the nearly unconscious Yan Lu, trembled backward. Suppressing his fear, he was about to steady himself when he saw the flash of scarlet. Feng Yunqing stood alone, unexpectedly sheathing her soft sword.
The black-clothed man pondered for a moment, then sharply eyed her: “So, you must be the Left Chancellor of Qing Country.”
“Long time no see.” She spoke expressionlessly. “Xie Sichen.”
“Oh? Have we met before?”
“We have.” Her hands inside her wide sleeves formed into palms, endless cold air flowing between her fingers. She calmly said, “Not only with you, but even with your master.”
“Who exactly are you?” Xie Sichen tensed his tall frame, his eyes full of murderous intent.
“What?” She protected Zhang Mi and the others as they edged towards the gunwale. “Afraid people will know Riyao Sect is just Chen Shao's lapdog?”
Xie Sichen's face was filled with anger, fiercely retracting his iron claws.
Quietly, a small boat drifted next to the stranded giant ship, the gentle oar sounds drowned by the clashing swords. The small boat floated with a few broken ropes, originally cut-off rafts from the large ship.
“Speaking of which, your master and the Seventh Prince truly make quite the pair.” She casually glanced down at the ship, seeing two slim figures waving urgently at her. Then, a red whip flew straight up, wrapping around a protrusion.
“Your master resents my scheme for seizing the sixteen states, while the Seventh Prince sees me as a thorn in his side.” She pushed Zhang Mi behind her, signaling him to carry Yan Lu toward where the red whip was strung. “If the Seventh Prince were to act, he would surely arouse suspicion from His Majesty afterward. Thus, he conspired with your master, using the ambush at Jing Gorge as a smokescreen, actually letting Chen Shao strike at Shuangsheng Gorge. This way, both parties get what they want, mutually benefiting.”
“Good, good.” Xie Sichen was captivated by her attention, applauding with a smile. “No wonder you’re the young chancellor, truly clever.” He intended to say more but noticed the movement of the other three.
Realizing the situation was bad, Feng Yunqing swiftly raised her hand blade and lunged at him: “Quickly, go down!” Her icy small palm was blocked at his heart, as she loudly urged, “Hurry!”
Zhang Mi, carrying the heavily bleeding Yan Lu, grabbed the rough red whip and slid down. Xiang Rui, who had gone ahead, nearly let go due to the sharp pain in her palm. Once the three wobbled onto the small boat, they heard a loud shout from the little bird: “Qingqing, hurry and leave!”
The trembling two backed towards the gunwale. Feng Yunqing dodged Xie Sichen’s heavy palm, the deck behind her pierced by the iron claws.
“Xie Sichen!” The little bird quivered with tear-filled eyes, her chest heaving violently.
“Yan'er, come help.” Ruming slowly sat Yan Lu down.
“Sister, I'll leave this to you.”
“Huh?” Ruming looked up at the voice, seeing the little bird tug on the red whip, instantly flying up. “Where are you going?”
Feng Yunqing shifted her center of gravity, slipping under Xie Sichen's arm while her hand blade stabbed his left shoulder.
Xie Sichen glanced at the wound, laughing indifferently. “Hmph, you do have some skill.”
She was about to strike again when a roar came from behind: “Brute, take your life!”
“Senior Sister!” She tried to grab the figure but was swept aside by the whipwind.
The long whip, like a serpent, strikingly flicked its red tongue.
Xie Sichen crossed his arms, sidestepping easily to dodge the fierce attack of the red whip: “Long time no see, you've grown even more beautiful.”
“You brute!” The little bird spun her wrist, the long whip slicing through the air. “I was blind to consider you a friend, truly befriending scum.”
“Hmph.” Xie Sichen sneered, his iron claws hooking the end of the whip, raising an eyebrow to shatter the red whip, which used ancient vine as bone and snake skin as sinew.
The little bird felt a sharp pain in her hand, hugging her bleeding right arm as she retreated: “What kind of sinister technique is this?”
“Come to think of it, I should thank your senior brother.” Xie Sichen blew the powder off his claws. “If he hadn’t crippled my martial arts, how could I have found such a unique path?” He glanced at her slightly bulging abdomen. “They say debts passed from father to son, today I’ll collect the interest!” Before he finished, Xie Sichen swooped down like a chilling breeze, aiming directly for the little bird's waist.
Seeing she couldn’t match his speed, Feng Yunqing closed her eyes, employing her mind-blade technique.
The iron claws paused mid-air. Xie Sichen snorted and exerted force again, suddenly feeling overwhelming pressure. He looked at the nearby little bird but found it hard to harm her.
“Qingqing...” Feng Lianyan leaned against the shipboard, feeling her legs go limp. “What did you practice?”
Scattered black hair floated silently in the air, the scarlet sleeves slowly swelling. Feng Yunqing opened her eyes, solemnly approaching Xie Sichen. She raised her right palm, striking towards his crown. But at this moment, Xie Sichen burst forth his true energy, dispelling her incomplete mind-blade, flipping his palm to counter hers.
“Hurry and leave!” Feng Yunqing took a bow stance, blood surging in her throat.
No wonder Xiuyuan forbade her from completing the mind-blade, her insides contorted like being pulled apart by five horses. She knew she was at her limit.
“The tide hasn’t risen yet, outside boats can’t enter assuming we’re stranded.” Thick sweet-scented blood slid with every word she spoke, imprinting shallow flowers on her scarlet clothes. “Protect them and escape.”
Her belly ached with heaviness, Feng Lianyan's pretty face turned pale, yet she refused to leave the ship: “If we go, we go together!”
Feng Yunqing readied her left palm once more, restraining Xie Sichen’s iron claws trying to fly out. She angrily exclaimed: “Can’t you see! Without you all, it’s easier for me!”
Yes, having induced labor pains, staying behind would only drag Qingqing down. Feng Lianyan supported her increasingly painful abdomen, taking one step back at a time, ultimately gritting her teeth and flying off the large ship: “Row! Hurry and row! Go call for reinforcements!”
“Trying to escape?” Xie Sichen ruthlessly unleashed his ultimate move, concentrating all his internal energy into his palm.
Feng Yunqing resisted with her slender body, cold sweat streaming down her face. More and more beads of sweat converged into rivulets, gradually washing away her disguise.
Xie Sichen squinted, watching as the skin on her cheek slowly peeled away: “Hmph! Disguise!” He took another heavy step, the wooden boards beneath his feet creaking and splitting.
Feng Yunqing supported her chest, just about to retreat when the palm wind stripped her disguise.
“So it's a woman!” Xie Sichen mocked, about to chase after the small boat when a clear female voice sounded behind him.
“What if it’s a woman?”
He didn’t stop, leading the white-clad men towards the receding tide of the river.
“Xie Ji’an still died at the hands of a woman.”
Hearing this, he halted his form, turning sharply: “You...what did you say?”
Under the loose black hair was a pale beauty. Her cherry lips slightly curved, like spring flowers blooming.
Xie Sichen flew back onto the ship, gripping his iron claws tightly: “Say it again!”
She glanced at the small boat not yet far away, provocatively saying: “I mean, Xie Ji’an was too weak.”
That one clear sentence shattered Xie Sichen’s entire mind. His eyes turned bloodshot as he roared, charging forward.
Facing the ferocious enemy akin to a beast, she contentedly curved her lips.
This way, they would be safe.
Her smile, like the rising moon amidst clouds, shimmered under the spring willows, intoxicating the summer night with clarity…
…
The mountains and waters twisted, cliffs towering thousands of feet high, making it hard to see the moon at noon or midnight. Amidst the myriad trees wrapped in mist, a single raft hurried through the broad gorge, the frantic ripples imprinted on the dark river.
Feng Lianyan dealt with the last “white butterfly,” weakly kneeling, sweat slowly sliding down her cheeks.
“Yan'er, hold on a bit longer.” Ruming paddled the river water, anxiously looking at her side.
“It’s fine.” She adjusted her breathing, forcing a smile. “Both I and the child are fine.”
“Master.” Zhang Mi wielded the oars forcefully, occasionally frowning as he looked back. “Master, she...”
“She’s fine!” The little bird growled low, her distant gaze mixed with worry.
“What did you say?” Xiang Rui held the weakening Yan Lu, bringing her ear closer.
“Commoner...” His throat slowly moved. “Commoner begs...Princess...”
“You saved me.” Xiang Rui let Yan Lu lie on her lap, wiping his lips with tears. “Whatever wish you have, feel free to speak.”
Yan Lu struggled to move his arm, trembling as he gripped the jade pendant at her waist: “Please...” He opened his mouth but found it difficult to vocalize.
“Hmm?” The princess wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, mixing his blood with her tears. “Don't rush, wait until you...until you're better, then tell me.”
“...” The blood-soaked hand tightly gripped the jade, pulling her to bend over. “Give it to him...”
“Him?” Xiang Rui puzzledly lowered her eyes, seeing Yan Lu raise her token of affection. “Him...”
Yan Lu nodded weakly, blinking to indicate. “Do you know Cheng Bi?” Xiang Rui lightly touched the jade patterns.
Yan Lu blinked again, then his chest heaved violently. He suddenly raised his head, his pale lips struggling to part: “Give him...happiness...”
Xiang Rui froze there, staring dumbfounded at his unfocused eyes.
“Promise me!” He grasped her delicate hand, almost forcing her.
“Alright.”
A clear tear dripped from the corner of her eye, landing in his pupil. Then another drop, sliding along his closed eyelids, lingering on his uplifted lips.
“Lü Ge!” The youth’s hoarse cry echoed and reverberated throughout the hundred-mile canyon.
Sixteen-year-old Xiang Rui, holding the stiff corpse, continued: “Alright.”
On the shallow river, the boat left traces, drawing a faint scar...
After an unknown amount of time, the gentle breeze awakened them from their nightmare. The water beneath the boat slowly surged, and milky-white mist rose on the river.
The tide had risen.
Zhang Mi tirelessly swung his arms, ferrying the group downstream.
“Someone!” Ruming stood up, shouting loudly towards the twinkling fishing lights. “Help! Help us!”
The two figures standing on the raft suddenly moved, darting across the water like flying ducks.
“Dreamer!”
Upon hearing the voice, Ruming waved her arms vigorously: “Cousin! Yan'er is injured!”
Ye Jinglan boarded the ship ahead of Feng Wuyu. He scanned the people on the ship, his handsome face tinged with blue: “Where’s Qingqing?”
“Qingqing is still on the ship.” The little bird clutched her belly, her eyes brimming with tears. “Hurry and save her!”
The words were still on her lips when the figure in moon white shot out several zhangs, like a soaring white crane, gliding among the towering cliffs.
...
Xie Sichen stood on the stone-borne pine, cruelly admiring his masterpiece.
“No wonder Ye Jinglan preferred being chased by me without uttering a word.” He lewdly appraised this bloody beauty, his tone smoothly echoing. “She truly has some charm.”
An iron spear pierced through her shoulder, pinning her firmly to the cliff. The silvery spear shaft rubbed against her collarbone, emitting eerie creaking sounds. The force of gravity tugged at her wound, making every breath feel like her heart was stopping. She clenched her teeth, not letting out a single sound. Below her, the rising tide of the Chi River surged violently, pounding against the cliff walls and splashing water mist tinged with the scent of blood.
“In fact, I do have a soft spot for beauty, but alas...” He narrowed his eyes, a malevolent aura rising within him.
Her eyelids felt heavy, fluttering as if about to close. Her feet searched for a foothold on the steep cliff, her trembling body worsening the pain in her shoulder. Crimson blood flowed steadily along the spear, soaking the red tassels on the spear shaft. Before long, the tassels could no longer bear the viscous blood and hung motionlessly in the wind.
She found it, panting in pain, placing her right foot on a small rock, finally giving her dangling body some support. She shifted forward slightly, calculating how much force she needed to break free from the spear.
“Waiting for Ye Jinglan?” Xie Sichen watched the scarlet blood drip from the tassels, falling into the surging river like red beans.
Internal and external injuries combined, overwhelming waves of pain tore through her body. Her disheveled hair clung to her sweat-soaked face. The initial burning sensation in her shoulder had turned icy cold; she knew she had lost too much blood and couldn't hold on much longer. Yet, she still thought of those phoenix-like eyes, thinking until sweat poured down her temples, until the pain eased slightly, until her consciousness began to blur.
“Still waiting for your lover to save you? Good, very good.” Xie Sichen swung his iron claw, revealing a bloodthirsty expression. “I will strip you bare on this sheer cliff, let Ye Jinglan see how wantonly you die!”
She raised her head, her eyes filled with the cold light of the moon.
“Hahahaha!” Xie Sichen grabbed the spear in front of her, his iron claw probing forward but stopping a foot away from her chest, unable to advance further. “What? Still have strength to play tricks?”
Her fingers trembled uncontrollably, using her mind blade technique, she was almost overwhelmed by pain. Blood bubbled up her throat, but she bit her lips tightly, knowing opening her mouth would mean more blood. Her facial muscles twitched involuntarily, leaving only one thought in her mind.
Xiu Yuan must not see her humiliated corpse, never.
She stared intently, watching Xie Sichen's fingers move slightly, realizing it was time to make her choice.
With a push of her foot, her body slid along the spear, leaving a trail of blood.
“You!” Xie Sichen was shocked to see this woman resolutely impale herself further onto the spear, her small palm thrusting straight into his body. In his pain, he released the spear handle, jumping back onto the old pine tree, watching her slender figure drift softly down like a feather, while the spear still quivered on the cliff wall.
“Madwoman.” He glared downwards, wiping the blood from his lips. Suddenly, he felt a chill behind his neck, and before he could react, his body was split in two. With unseeing eyes wide open, his headless corpse still stood on the old pine, but his gaze kept lowering. His pupils reflected a rapidly descending figure in moon white, and he closed his guilty eyes.
The mist around her cheeks was cool, her consciousness drifting. She felt the wind from the river trying to lift her, her blood-stained robe flapping wildly, obscuring most of her vision.
She weakly fluttered her long lashes, seeing figures flash past. She struggled to widen her eyes, gradually seeing clearly.
Father, Mother! She reached out her hand, grasping at the air. Daughter misses you so much!
Smiling sweetly, that gentle glance back, she joyfully tried to embrace the shadowy figure before her.
Hua Mei, Hua Mei, your malt sugar is so delicious. Ah, Zhu Yun, don’t tell Nong Mo that I went fishing in the water today, or else she'll be angry again.
Brother, why are you staring blankly at my pouch? The candy has long been eaten, hahaha.
Scenes from her life flashed before her eyes: her father, mother, brother, Nong Mo, Hua Mei, Zhu Yun, Quan Bo, the General's Mansion in Fan Du, the luxurious You Wang Palace, the little Yun Zhi by the lakeside, the war-torn Qian Cheng, the fiery She Yue Valley...
Everything surrounded her six-year-old self, whether laughing or crying, happy or sorrowful, all memories were from before she was six.
Aren’t people supposed to see their whole life flash before their eyes before they die? Does that mean she only lived for six years?
Her body grew increasingly cold, plummeting rapidly in the wind, her consciousness muddled.
So she only lived for six years, she sighed.
Is this Qian Cheng or Lei Yue Ji? She had fallen here only twice, perhaps three times, but she couldn’t remember anymore.
The bloody mist covered her lashes, her blurred vision filled with crimson. The whistling wind blew in her ears; this moment of life and death felt eternal to her.
Subconsciously, a sweet and happy feeling welled up inside her. She tried to grasp it, but found that such bliss slipped through her fingers like silk.
It’s just a dream, only a dream, cool tears slid from the corners of her eyes. The sweet-blood taste in her throat became unbearable, and she suddenly faced reality. Blood gushed from her mouth, and she couldn’t stop laughing hoarsely.
“Hahahaha!” Her chest shook violently, her raspy laughter echoing towards the sky.
In a daze, she saw those phoenix eyes again, not far away. But this time, the handsome eyes held no smile, only deep sorrow.
With a splash, she bent over and fell into the water. The cool river water flowed through the hole in her shoulder, tickling her and making her laugh. Each laugh dyed the water with a bloom of blood, like fish blowing bubbles. Water rushed into her nostrils and mouth, and she drifted like a soaked silk handkerchief, swaying gently, then slowly sinking.
At the moment she closed her weary eyes, she saw those phoenix eyes drawing nearer and nearer.
But before she could delve deeper into this dream, she drifted off to sleep.
Raising a cup, unaware where the moon is, only aware that this body is in a dream.
Ding, ding, ding...
A distant, clear sound came ringing.
What is that?
She remembered, that...
That is the soul-guiding bell of the ghostly reaper.
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