A Decade of Nightscape Lights

"Little cutie, this shows you haven't spoiled the author enough. The chapter is shyly hiding away."

"Uncle Zhou is truly an honest man," Cai Zhao beamed with joy. "He never minces words or actions. Senior Brother Chang, why are you just standing there? Quickly accept it!"

Though her mother Ning Xiaofeng disliked Zhou Zhizhen almost as much as Qi Yunke, Cai Zhao felt differently. Both Qi Yunke and Zhou Zhizhen were elders she greatly admired—especially when they arrived bearing armfuls of gifts.

Chang Ning silently accepted the jade cicada and stepped aside.

"Uncle Zhou, you've lost weight again. I know Old Madam Zhou hasn't been well, but you're not young either. Don't neglect your own health while caring for her." Cai Zhao wore an expression of filial devotion.

Zhou Zhizhen's eyes crinkled with affectionate amusement. "Zhao Zhao has grown so sensible. I worried when you'd never left Fallen Blossom Valley before, but clearly that was unnecessary. Damn that Uncle Qi for acting first—otherwise I'd have taken you back to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Being my disciple wouldn't be worse than learning from Grandmaster Qi. I wonder if little Zhao would agree?"

Cai Zhao feigned a sigh. "To be honest, Uncle Zhou, just look at that shabby little town below Nine Conch Mountain, then consider the bustling markets surrounding Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Where do you think I'd prefer to study?"

Zhou Zhizhen stroked his beard with a hearty laugh. "Exactly! How could our Zhao Zhao possibly be satisfied with this desolate Qingque Town?"

Two handsome young men with similar features approached from a distance, calling out, "Uncle! Come quickly! We've met the Liu brothers—you must see their family heirloom sword!"

As they drew near, the taller one grinned at Cai Zhao. "Oh? Little Zhao Zhao has grown up!"

The shorter one waggled his eyebrows. "Though not much taller. She'll still need a stool when running errands to fetch vinegar..."

"Have you forgotten how to speak? Go practice before opening your mouths again!" Cai Zhao's smile vanished instantly.

Zhou Zhizhen shook his head in amusement. "Yuqian, Yukun, stop teasing Zhao Zhao—aren't you too old for this? Very well, I should greet your Uncle Liu. Let's go."

Watching the Zhou uncle and nephews depart, Chang Ning couldn't contain his curiosity. "Master Zhou was your aunt's fiancé? But I heard... heard he..."

"That he's long since married with children?" Cai Zhao finished without surprise. "We all know that."

"Uncle Zhou's wife is his mother's niece by blood, surnamed Min. They trained together at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor in their youth—my aunt knew her. Their son is Zhou Yuqi, two years my senior."

Even Chang Ning, who prided himself on understanding worldly affairs, was stunned by this revelation.

Cai Zhao continued matter-of-factly: "When my grandparents passed, my aunt was only ten and my father even younger. Old Master Zhou, honoring his friendship with my grandfather, personally brought them to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor and accepted my aunt as a nominal disciple."

"You can imagine the situation. With my grandparents gone early and my great-uncle off gallivanting who-knows-where, Fallen Blossom Valley wasn't doing well. Fortunately, Old Master Zhou showed great kindness—not only caring for and protecting my aunt and father, but also upholding the betrothal promise made years earlier."Chang Ning was at a loss, so he picked the most obvious question: "Did your aunt not like Master Zhou?"

"How could she not? Master Zhou was one of the most handsome young men in the martial world in his youth, born into a prestigious family, and his martial arts were unparalleled among his peers. The only one who could rival him was Sect Leader Song of Vast Heaven Gate, but in terms of reputation, Master Zhou far surpassed him. Why wouldn’t my aunt like him?"

"Then why didn’t Heroine Cai marry Master Zhou?"

Cai Zhao scratched her ear, her fair and tender earlobe flushing pink: "I only know bits and pieces about that. At first, it was probably because she was too young. Later, Nie Hengcheng started committing all sorts of atrocities, and everyone was too busy fighting the Demonic Cult to think about anything else. And then... my aunt was hanging by a thread, barely clinging to life—how could she marry and have children?"

"Whatever the reason, the marriage didn’t happen, so there must have been some lingering resentment. Yet your family holds no grudge against Zhou Zhizhen? And you’re so close to the Zhou family!" Chang Ning began to wonder if he was being too cynical—maybe they were just that open-hearted and magnanimous.

"Why should there be any grudge?" Cai Zhao looked utterly matter-of-fact. "Of course I’m close to the Zhou family—I’m going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor in the future."

Chang Ning: "...Why are you going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor? Haven’t you already joined the Azure Tower Sect as a disciple?" Was the Cai Family so worried about their daughter going astray that they made her take two masters? Were Valley Master Cai and his wife really that meticulous?

Cai Zhao was very patient: "I’m not going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor to become a disciple. I’m going to live there for the rest of my life."

Chang Ning: "??"

"I’m going to marry into the Zhou family. Not only was my aunt betrothed to Master Zhou since childhood, but I was also betrothed to Zhou Yuqi from a young age."

Chang Ning’s expression looked as if someone had just slashed him across the face.

"Senior Brother Chang, why aren’t you saying anything?" Cai Zhao waved her hand in front of Chang Ning’s face.

Chang Ning’s eyes narrowed as if he had a fishbone stuck in his throat.

"Oh, so Junior Sister Cai is here enjoying herself! We’ve been searching for you everywhere." A familiar, delicate voice rang out as two young maidens gracefully approached.

The girl on the left, dressed in lotus-pink palace attire with a pearl-inlaid gold hairpin, was Qi Lingbo—truly more radiant than a flower. The girl on the right, elegant and poised in a snow-blue gauze dress, smiled gently, her demeanor as serene and refreshing as a flowing stream.

The girl on the right bowed slightly. "It’s been a while, Zhao Zhao. How have you been?"

Muttering "Why are they here again," Cai Zhao stood and returned the greeting. "Sister Xinrou, it’s good to see you. I’ve been well." She then briefly introduced Chang Ning—the girl was Min Xinrou, niece of Madam Min of Jade Pendant Mountain Manor, the same age as Qi Lingbo and a year older than Cai Zhao.

Whether Chang Ning hadn’t recovered from his earlier shock or simply couldn’t be bothered, he barely acknowledged them, lifting his eyelids slightly before sitting silently to the side after a few perfunctory words.

Qi Lingbo, well aware of Chang Ning’s foul temper and not wanting to stir up trouble, quickly linked arms with Min Xinrou and giggled. "Sister Xinrou and I hit it off right away. While chatting, I learned that not only are you and Sister Xinrou old friends, but you’re also betrothed to her cousin, the young master of Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Oh my, Zhao Zhao, why didn’t you mention this earlier? If we’d known, the three of us could have been happily playing together all this time."Cai Zhao gave a half-smile. "Since I arrived at the Myriad Waters, Thousand Mountains Cliff, I've seen Senior Sister Qi three or four times. Each time, we were either exchanging blows or words. How could we possibly have had the chance for a proper conversation?"

Qi Lingbo's face stiffened as she struggled to contain herself.

Min Xinrou parted her rosy lips with a light laugh. "Zhao Zhao, you're still as amusing as when we were children. No wonder Uncle dotes on you so. Ah, it's a pity Brother Yuqi isn't here—otherwise, the three childhood playmates could have a proper reunion. I've always advised Brother Yuqi that even if it weren't for Old Ancestor Bei Chen's bicentennial memorial ceremony, he should have come just for your sake, Zhao Zhao. But alas, the old madam's health declines day by day, and the physicians insist a grandson must remain by her side. There's simply no alternative..."

"What does it matter?" Cai Zhao replied impassively. "Brother Yuqi and I have a lifetime ahead to stare each other down with big eyes and petty grudges. Whether we meet now or later makes little difference. Instead, Sister Xinrou should seize every chance to see Brother Yuqi while you can. After marriage, returning to your maiden home is acceptable, but daily visits to your cousin's household won't be proper. Though if Sister Xinrou ever suffers marital discord—say, a black eye from your husband, a split head, or being banished to sleep on the porch—do let me know. I'll certainly avenge you..."

"What nonsense are you spouting?!" Qi Lingbo could no longer restrain herself, while Min Xinrou's face turned as pale as her dress.

Cai Zhao remained utterly composed. "Sister Xinrou visited Fallen Blossom Valley three times with Uncle Zhou. The first two times, we 'compared' martial skills. The third time, we switched from fists to words. Sister Xinrou, why don't you tell Senior Sister Qi—whether in combat or debate, have you ever beaten me even once?"

Min Xinrou lowered her delicate neck, her face flushing with embarrassment. "Zhao Zhao, you've always been clever and quick-witted, surpassing me in both martial arts and eloquence. But those were just childish antics. Now that we're older—"

Cai Zhao cut her off, addressing Qi Lingbo directly. "You heard her, Senior Sister. Whether with fists or words, I won every time. So why have you brought this defeated opponent to confront me? Did you think adding her would help you regain face?"

Unable to endure the barrage of sarcasm, Qi Lingbo burst out, "Don't think gaining the upper hand over me and Sister Xinrou makes you invincible! Even a hero needs allies. Sister Xinrou has Madam Min and the old madam backing her, while I have my mother and martial brothers supporting me. Hmph! You didn't know, did you? Third Brother and I have been betrothed since childhood..."

"Oh? That wasn't obvious at all," Cai Zhao remarked coolly. "If not for Eldest Brother desperately intervening at noon today, Third Brother was determined to punish you."

Seeing Qi Lingbo nearly choking with rage, Min Xinrou hastily interjected, "Enough, enough! We're all sisters here. Why quarrel over mere words?"

Qi Lingbo caught her breath and sneered. "Cai Zhao, offending me is one thing, but you shouldn't cross Sister Xinrou. After all, Madam Min is your elder. If you keep bullying her niece, do you think she'll ever treat you kindly?!""Why the sour face?" Cai Zhao seemed genuinely surprised. "Since Senior Sister brought up the Min Family, let's discuss this properly. The Min Family may not have great capabilities, but their ambitions are certainly large—constantly provoking powerful enemies under the banner of Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. And what happens? They lose every time, requiring rescue each instance. Not to mention my granduncle, my aunt alone has saved Old Master Min and his two brothers three or four times. Later, when the Demonic Cult tried to capture the Zhou Family’s womenfolk as leverage, my aunt also rescued Madam Min and her niece."

"Such great kindness doesn’t require the Min Family to repay me with servitude. Just treat me well after I marry into their family." Cai Zhao waved her handkerchief dismissively.

"But—but the Zhou Family has also shown kindness to the Cai Family! I know your aunt and your father were both raised by Old Master Zhou," Qi Lingbo persisted stubbornly.

"When your father suffered a qi deviation during training, it was my aunt who went through great pains to save him. Yet I don’t see you holding back when scolding me. Ah well, the Big Dipper Six Sects are like branches of the same tree—no need to keep such close accounts."

Cai Zhao added leisurely, "In any case, if the Min Family treats me poorly in the future, they’d be heartless, ungrateful wretches. If Uncle Zhou doesn’t stand up for me, I’ll certainly complain to all the righteous uncles and elders of the martial arts world."

Qi Lingbo was left speechless with anger, while Min Xinrou could only mask her discomfort with an awkward smile.

Chang Ning looked up at the sky.

He had initially wondered why Cai Pingshu, knowing full well his feud with Yin Sulian, would still send Cai Zhao to the Azure Tower Sect. Wasn’t she afraid her beloved niece would be bullied? He thought Cai Pingshu was too naive—not everyone remembers favors.

Now he realized he was the naive one.

With someone like Cai Zhao—all smiles on the surface but ruthless underneath—if Yin Qinglian and her daughter dared bully her, she’d probably dig up the Yin Family ancestral graves overnight and plant a field of dogtail grass over them.

Seeing Qi Lingbo fuming, Min Xinrou patted her back soothingly and said tearfully in a gentle voice, "Don’t be angry, Zhao Zhao. It’s all my fault. Please don’t take it out on Lingbo. Whatever the mistake, it’s mine. If you’re upset, you can hit or scold me. I never should have confessed my admiration for Cousin during your aunt’s memorial last year…"

Qi Lingbo seized the moment to interject, "How can this be your fault? Sister Xinrou, you’re so gentle and kind—everyone adores you! I’m sure Young Master Zhou must also—"

Min Xinrou hastily cut her off, "No, no! It’s entirely my one-sided affection. Cousin only sees me as a younger sister! In any case, Zhao Zhao, please don’t blame me for my foolish feelings."

Hearing the words "younger sister," Cai Zhao clenched her back teeth, her smile turning frostier. "How could I blame you, Sister Xinrou? We’ve known each other since childhood—our bond is deeper than ordinary sisters."

Min Xinrou caught the coldness in Cai Zhao’s eyes and began to feel uneasy.

Qi Lingbo, oblivious, pressed on, "Let’s speak plainly. Since you already know Sister Xinrou’s feelings, why not both marry into the Zhou Family? You can address each other as sisters and support one another. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?" Whether it worked or not, as long as it made Cai Zhao uncomfortable, she’d be satisfied.Cai Zhao cast her a light, dismissive glance. "Now that my bond with Senior Sister is even stronger, why don't you marry into the Zhou Family with me? That way we can stay together every day, year after year—wouldn't that be even more wonderful?!"

"You're spouting nonsense, nonsense, nonsense!" Qi Lingbo nearly went mad with rage.

Min Xinrou understood Cai Zhao far better than Qi Lingbo did and knew she had already been provoked. She desperately tried to drag Qi Lingbo away, but the latter stubbornly refused to budge.

Cai Zhao sneered. "My aunt showed kindness to Old Madam Min, to the Min father and son, and to Madam Min most of all—if not for my aunt, Madam Min would have either been seized by that Elder Tianshu to serve as a cultivation furnace or become some Altar Lord's twenty-eighth concubine! And yet, you still dare to call me 'sister'—is this how you repay kindness?"

"Martial artists help others without expecting anything in return! Who goes around flaunting their good deeds like you? Besides, there's Young Master Zhou—he's so filial to his grandmother and mother, surely he'd want to take good care of the Min Family and Xinrou-jiejie! Why don't you ask yourself—if Young Master Zhou had to choose, would he pick you or Xinrou-jiejie?!" Qi Lingbo swayed as Min Xinrou tugged at her but refused to leave.

Cai Zhao let out a cold laugh. "So Senior Sister is determined to help Xinrou-jiejie. The Min Family, being so upright and honorable, would never forget a debt of gratitude. Xinrou-jiejie wants both to marry into the Zhou Family and repay her debt—fine then..."

She slapped the table. "How about I be the principal wife and you the concubine? I'll eat while you serve, I'll wash my feet while you fetch water, and after entering the household, we'll change your name to 'Daizi'! From then on, you'll be 'Min Daizi'—how does that sound?" [Note]

Even Min Xinrou's strong will couldn't withstand such humiliation. With a choked sob, she covered her face and fled in tears. Qi Lingbo stood dumbfounded, her gaze shifting to meet Cai Zhao's.

Cai Zhao smiled sweetly. "If Senior Sister Qi ever tires of marrying into the Song Family, you're welcome at our Jade Pendant Mountain Manor—just change your name to 'Qi Daizi,' and you're all set."

Qi Lingbo stamped her foot and flung her sleeve, then turned on her heel and stormed off with a stiff expression.

Only after everyone had left did Cai Zhao sit down, snorting. "Those two—one a true villain, the other a hypocrite—what a pair of sisters, though not even related by blood!"

Chang Ning waited for Cai Zhao to calm down before speaking slowly. "Aren't you always lecturing me about 'harmony brings wealth'? Why are you so worked up now?"

Cai Zhao: "I can be harmonious with anyone—except those who betrayed my aunt. The entire Min Family owes her a debt. I don't expect them to remember her kindness, but the least they could do is refrain from cursing her behind her back!"

"If the Mins are so despicable, why did your aunt arrange your engagement to Zhou Yuqi? Sending a lamb into the tiger's den?" Chang Ning mocked.

Cai Zhao grew agitated. "Perhaps Aunt felt guilty toward Uncle Zhou." She still remembered the look in Cai Pingshu's eyes as she lay dying, gazing at Zhou Zhizhen—full of remorse.

"What does she have to feel guilty about?" Chang Ning scoffed. "Zhou Yuqi is two years older than you. Counting backward, that means Master Zhou married immediately after the Battle of Tushan and had a son the very next year. Even if your aunt was too ill to marry and bear children, he didn't have to be in such a hurry!"

"Because it was my aunt who personally urged Uncle Zhou to marry as soon as possible."

Chang Ning was caught off guard once again.Cai Zhao sighed, "No matter how much Old Madam Min pleaded or pressured, Uncle Zhou was originally unwilling to marry Madam Min. It was only after my aunt repeatedly persuaded him that he finally agreed. Didn’t Great Hero Chang tell you any of this?"

Chang Ning muttered gloomily, "My father didn’t even mention this."

Cai Zhao smiled faintly. "My mother said that at the time, Old Master Zhou was already on his deathbed, and his final wish was to see Uncle Zhou married. But even then, Uncle Zhou refused to agree. Uncle Zhou is a good man. Three years ago, he stayed by my aunt’s sickbed, watching helplessly as she took her last breath. He wept until he fainted and later fell seriously ill."

Chang Ning fell silent.

For someone like Zhou Zhizhen, whose internal energy cultivation was profound, falling ill was rare, let alone fainting. It showed just how deeply grieved he had been.

"I understand now," Chang Ning suddenly realized. "That’s why Old Master Zhou insisted on seeing his son married before his death. If he hadn’t, given Master Zhou’s deep devotion to your aunt, no one could have pressured him to marry after the old master passed away."

"Yes, so my aunt always felt guilty toward Uncle Zhou," Cai Zhao murmured with a sigh. "Our grandparents passed away early, and Old Master Zhou took care of my aunt and father for years, treating them as his own. As for Uncle Zhou—my aunt once said that when they first arrived at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor, though he was young, he looked after them with great care. He even personally delivered charcoal for warmth every time, never letting my aunt suffer the slightest grievance."

She sighed again and continued, "So when Uncle Zhou proposed continuing the engagement, my mother agreed before my aunt could even speak."

Chang Ning glanced at Cai Zhao. "Your mother stepped in because she didn’t want your aunt to feel torn, didn’t she?"

Cai Zhao smiled helplessly. "In my mother’s eyes, nothing in the world matters more than my aunt."

"But what if you end up marrying the wrong person?"

"My mother said, ‘If the marriage doesn’t work out, just marry again—it’s just a matter of changing families, no big deal. If you don’t want to marry, you can always return to Fallen Blossom Valley and take in a son-in-law. It’s not like it hasn’t happened before.’"

This time, it was Chang Ning’s turn to sigh.

He had no understanding of romantic relationships, so he couldn’t judge whether Cai Pingshu’s guilt—"I can’t marry you, but I’ll urge you to marry someone else"—was normal or not. He just felt inexplicably frustrated.

"Alright, let’s talk about Zhou Yuqi. After all, he’s the one you’re going to marry. What’s he like?"

A conflicted expression flickered across Cai Zhao’s face, as if she wanted to laugh but shouldn’t. "He’s naturally a good person—refined, gentle, and kind to others."

"What about his martial arts?"

Cai Zhao blinked her large eyes. "Considering the bond between our families... well, it’s hard to say who’s better."

Chang Ning narrowed his eyes. "If we disregard that bond, and you fought him at full strength?"

"I’d make him roll away within a hundred and thirty-eight moves."

Hearing the satisfaction in Cai Zhao’s tone, Chang Ning couldn’t help but laugh. "Does Zhou Yuqi treat Min Xinrou particularly well? Have you disliked him for a long time?"

"Ah, actually, Jade Kirin isn’t a bad person. He’s always been very accommodating to me. My mother said Uncle Zhou was the same way—not because he had ulterior motives, but because he was raised to be too gentle and refined, always tender toward women, unwilling to scold or strike them. But it’s not a big deal. If he can’t bring himself to scold or strike, I’ll do it for him."

Chang Ning was left speechless.After a moment of contemplation, he turned solemnly to Cai Zhao and, for the first time in his life, spoke with earnest persuasion—

"Marriage is no trivial matter after all. Now that your aunt has passed away, breaking off the engagement wouldn't be a big deal. Master Zhou cares for you so deeply—if you say you don't wish to marry Zhou Yuqi, he would surely agree. The Min Family would have their wish fulfilled, and there would be no enmity between the Zhou and Cai families. Calling off the engagement wouldn't harm anyone."

Cai Zhao looked astonished: "Why call it off? I never said I didn't want to marry Zhou Yuqi. I'm willing to marry him—where did you get the idea that I'm unwilling?"

Chang Ning: "..."

"I've thought it through—marrying Zhou Yuqi would be quite nice. First, he can't beat me in a fight, and Uncle Zhou always has my back. I could do whatever I want at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Heh, that old hag surnamed Min was nasty to my aunt back in the day, and Madam Min is even worse. I’ll make sure to ‘serve’ them both properly later. If they dare use filial piety to control me, I’ll crush them under the weight of gratitude!"

"...So you’re actually going there for revenge?"

"Ugh, ‘revenge’ sounds so harsh. Better to resolve grievances than to hold grudges. Second, Jade Pendant Mountain Manor has beautiful scenery and bustling markets. The surrounding towns have everything you could want—it’s even livelier than Fallen Blossom Valley! I’ve thought about it since I was little: live in Fallen Blossom Valley before marriage, and move to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor after. Perfect!"

"Wealth and luxury are fleeting. Upholding justice is the true path," Chang Ning retorted mechanically, feeling as though he’d used up a lifetime’s worth of righteous speeches tonight.

"Does upholding justice contradict enjoying lively places? Besides, your father has hoarded who knows how much gold and silver—how can you say such things with a straight face?"

"..."

"Third, the Zhou family is quite amiable—and anyone who isn’t can’t beat me anyway. The older uncles were close to my aunt back then, and now Yuqian and Yukun are good to me. Uncle Zhou agrees with everything I say, and since Yuqian can’t beat me or out-argue me, once the doors are closed, Jade Pendant Mountain Manor will be mine to rule! What do you think, Senior Brother Chang?" Cai Zhao grew more and more delighted as she envisioned it.

"Senior Brother, Senior Brother Chang, why are you silent again?" Cai Zhao waved her hand in front of Chang Ning’s face.

"...I need some quiet."

Though her mother, Ning Xiaofeng, disliked Zhou Zhizhen almost as much as she did Qi Yunke, Cai Zhao felt differently. Both Qi Yunke and Zhou Zhizhen were elders she adored—especially when they arrived laden with gifts.

Chang Ning silently accepted the jade cicada and stepped aside.

"Uncle Zhou, you’ve lost weight again. I know Grandmother Zhou isn’t well, but you’re not young either. Don’t neglect your own health while caring for her." Cai Zhao put on a sweet, filial expression.

Zhou Zhizhen was visibly pleased, his eyes brimming with affection. "Zhao Zhao is so thoughtful—you’ve truly grown up. I worried you might not adjust to life outside Fallen Blossom Valley, but it seems I needn’t have. If only your Uncle Qi hadn’t acted so quickly, I would’ve taken you back to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Being my disciple wouldn’t be worse than learning from the great Sect Leader Qi—I wonder if little Zhao would’ve agreed!"

Cai Zhao feigned a sigh. "To be honest, Uncle Zhou, just look at that shabby little town under Nine Conch Mountain, then think about the bustling markets around Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Where do you think I’d rather study?"

Zhou Zhizhen stroked his beard and laughed heartily. "Exactly! How could our Zhao Zhao ever be satisfied with a dreary place like Green Tower Town?"

Just then, two handsome young men with similar features approached from a distance, calling out, "Uncle, Uncle, come quick! We’ve met the Liu brothers—you must see their family’s ancestral sword!"

As they drew near, the slightly taller one spotted Cai Zhao and grinned. "Oh, little Zhao Zhao’s all grown up now!"

The shorter one winked. "Though she hasn’t grown much taller. She’ll still need a stool to fetch vinegar from the shop counter..."“Can’t you speak properly? If not, go practice before opening your mouths again!” Cai Zhao immediately lost her temper.

Zhou Zhizhen shook his head with a laugh. “Yuqian, Yukun, stop fooling around with Zhao Zhao—you’re not kids anymore! Alright, alright, I need to go see your Uncle Liu. Let’s head over now.”

Watching the three Zhou family members leave, Chang Ning couldn’t help but ask, “Master Zhou was your aunt’s fiancé? But I heard… I heard that he…”

“Heard that he’s already married with children, right?” Cai Zhao wasn’t surprised at all. “We all know that.”

“Uncle Zhou’s wife is his mother’s niece by blood, surnamed Min. She trained with everyone at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor when she was young—my aunt knew her too. Oh, their son is named Zhou Yuqi, two years older than me.”

Even though Chang Ning prided himself on having seen all the harshness and vicissitudes of the world, he was still stunned by this.

Cai Zhao continued matter-of-factly, “When my grandparents passed away, my aunt was only ten, and my father was even younger. Old Master Zhou, out of respect for his friendship with my grandfather, personally brought my aunt and father to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor and accepted my aunt as a nominal disciple.”

“You can imagine what it was like back then. My grandparents died early, and my great-uncle was off enjoying himself somewhere, so things weren’t great in Fallen Blossom Valley. Thankfully, Old Master Zhou was kind—not only did he care for and protect my aunt and father in every way, but he also upheld the betrothal promise made back then.”

Chang Ning was at a loss, so he picked the most obvious question. “Did your aunt not like Master Zhou?”

“How could she not? Master Zhou was one of the most handsome young men in the martial world back then, born into a prestigious family, and his martial prowess was unmatched among his peers. The only one who could rival him was Sect Leader Song of Vast Heaven Gate, but in terms of reputation, Master Zhou far surpassed him. Why wouldn’t my aunt like him?”

“Then why didn’t Heroine Cai marry Master Zhou?”

Cai Zhao scratched her ear, her fair, delicate earlobe turning pink. “I only know bits and pieces of this. At first, it was probably because they were too young. Later, Nie Hengcheng started committing all sorts of atrocities, and everyone was too busy fighting the Demonic Cult to think about anything else. And then… my aunt was barely clinging to life, just struggling to survive—how could she marry and have children?”

“No matter the reason, since the marriage didn’t happen, there must have been some lingering resentment. Yet your family holds no grudge against Zhou Zhizhen at all? And you’re still so close to the Zhou family!” Chang Ning began to wonder if he was the one being too cynical—maybe they were just that open-hearted and magnanimous.

“Why should there be any resentment?” Cai Zhao looked utterly baffled. “Of course I’m close to the Zhou family—I’m going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor in the future.”

Chang Ning: “…Why are you going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor? Didn’t you already join Azure Tower Sect as a disciple?” Was the Cai Family so worried about their daughter going astray that they wanted her to take on two masters? Were Valley Master Cai and his wife really that meticulous?

Cai Zhao was very patient. “I’m not going to Jade Pendant Mountain Manor to become a disciple. I’m going to live there for the rest of my life.”

Chang Ning: “??”

“I’m going to marry into the Zhou family. Not only was my aunt betrothed to Master Zhou since childhood—I was betrothed to Zhou Yuqi since childhood too.”

Chang Ning’s expression looked as if someone had just slashed him across the face.

“Why aren’t you saying anything, Senior Brother Chang?” Cai Zhao waved a hand in front of his face.

Chang Ning’s eyes twitched, as if he had a fishbone stuck in his throat."Oh, so Junior Sister Cai has been enjoying herself here all along! We've been searching high and low for you." A familiar delicate maiden's voice rang out as two young women arrived gracefully with the words.

The beautiful girl on the left, dressed in lotus-pink palace attire with a pearl-inlaid golden hairpin, was none other than Qi Lingbo - truly more radiant than flowers. The refined and dignified maiden on the right wore a snow-blue crepe silk dress, her gentle smile as elegant and pleasing as clear flowing water.

The right-hand maiden bowed slightly in greeting: "It's been so long since I've seen you, Zhao Zhao. How have you been recently?"

Cai Zhao muttered 'here we go again' under her breath before returning the courtesy: "Greetings, Xinrou elder sister. I've been quite well lately." She then briefly introduced Chang Ning - this maiden was Min Xinrou, niece of Madam Min from Jade Pendant Mountain Manor, the same age as Qi Lingbo and one year older than Cai Zhao.

Whether still recovering from the earlier shock or not, Chang Ning couldn't be bothered to engage, merely lifting his eyelids to exchange a few perfunctory words before silently moving aside.

Well acquainted with Chang Ning's foul temper, Qi Lingbo wanted to avoid complications and quickly linked arms with Min Xinrou, tittering: "Xinrou elder sister and I became fast friends, and through our conversation I discovered not only were you old acquaintances, but you're also betrothed to her cousin, the young master of Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Oh dear, why didn't you mention this earlier, Zhao Zhao? Had we known, we three sisters could have happily played together."

Cai Zhao smiled without mirth: "Since arriving at Myriad Waters, Thousand Mountains Cliff, I've met Senior Sister Qi three or four times - each time either exchanging blows or words. When would I have had the opportunity for proper conversation?"

Qi Lingbo's face stiffened as she struggled to contain herself.

Min Xinrou parted her ruby lips with a laugh: "Zhao Zhao remains as amusing as in childhood, no wonder Uncle was so fond of you. Alas, if only Jade Kirin were here, we three childhood playmates could properly reminisce. I've been urging him - if not for Old Ancestor Bei Chen's bicentennial memorial, then at least for Zhao Zhao's presence here, he absolutely should have come. But the elderly madam's health declines daily, and the physician insists a descendant must remain by her side - there's simply no alternative..."

"What does it matter?" Cai Zhao replied impassively. "Jade Kirin and I have decades ahead to stare each other down. One more or less meeting now makes little difference. Xinrou elder sister should meet with him as much as possible while you can. After marriage, returning to your maternal home is acceptable, but daily visits to your cousin's household won't do. Though if your marriage turns sour - say your husband blacks your eyes, cracks your skull, or banishes you to sleep on the porch - do inform me. I'll certainly avenge you..."

"What nonsense are you spouting?!" Qi Lingbo finally exploded, while Min Xinrou's complexion nearly matched her dress's hue.

Cai Zhao remained utterly composed. "Elder Sister Xinrou visited Fallen Blossom Valley with Uncle Zhou three times. The first two visits we 'compared' martial skills. The third time we switched to verbal sparring. Xinrou elder sister, why don't you tell Senior Sister Qi - whether in action or words, have you ever bested me even once?"Min Xinrou lowered her delicate neck, her face flushed with embarrassment. "Sister Zhao Zhao is clever and quick-witted, surpassing me in both martial arts and eloquence. But those were just childish antics from our younger days. Now..."

Cai Zhao interrupted her, turning directly to Qi Lingbo. "You heard it, senior sister. Whether it's fighting or talking, I always win. So why are you bringing this defeated opponent to find me? Do you think adding her will help you regain face?"

Unable to bear the sarcasm, Qi Lingbo burst out, "Don’t think just because you’ve gotten the better of me and Sister Xinrou that you’re invincible. Even a hero needs allies—Sister Xinrou has Madam Min and the old lady backing her, and I have my mother and senior brothers supporting me. Hmph, you didn’t know, did you? Third Senior Brother and I were betrothed since childhood..."

"Oh, I really couldn’t tell," Cai Zhao replied indifferently. "If not for Eldest Senior Brother desperately stopping him at noon today, Third Senior Brother was determined to punish you."

Seeing Qi Lingbo fuming, Min Xinrou quickly interjected, "Alright, alright, we’re all sisters here. Why argue over petty quarrels?"

Qi Lingbo took a breath and sneered, "Cai Zhao, offending me is one thing, but you shouldn’t offend Sister Xinrou. Madam Min is your elder, after all. If you keep bullying her niece, do you think she’ll treat you kindly in the future?!"

"Why wouldn’t she?" Cai Zhao feigned surprise. "Since you brought up the Min Family, let’s discuss this properly. The Min Family may not be strong, but their ambitions are grand. They often flaunt the name of Jade Pendant Mountain Manor to provoke powerful enemies. And when they do, they lose every time, needing rescue each occasion. Not to mention my granduncle, my aunt alone has saved Old Master Min and his brothers three or four times. Later, when the Demonic Cult tried to capture the Zhou family’s women as leverage, my aunt rescued Madam Min and her niece too."

"Such great kindness doesn’t require the Min Family to repay with extreme gratitude. Just treat me well after I marry into their family." Cai Zhao waved her handkerchief dismissively.

"But... but the Zhou Family also has done favors for the Cai Family. I know your aunt and father were raised by Old Master Zhou," Qi Lingbo persisted stubbornly.

"And when your father suffered a qi deviation during training, it was my aunt who went through great pains to save him. Yet I don’t see you holding back when you scold me. Ah well, the Big Dipper Six Sects are like branches of the same tree—no need to calculate so precisely."

Cai Zhao added leisurely, "Anyway, if the Min Family treats me poorly in the future, they’ll be heartless ingrates. And if Uncle Zhou doesn’t stand up for me, I’ll surely complain to all the uncles and elders of the martial arts world."

Qi Lingbo was left speechless with rage, while Min Xinrou could only force an awkward smile to mask her unease.

Chang Ning looked up at the sky.

He had initially wondered why Cai Pingshu, knowing full well his discord with Yin Sulian, would still send Cai Zhao to the Azure Tower Sect. Didn’t she fear her beloved niece would be bullied? He thought Cai Pingshu was too naive—not everyone remembers favors.

Now, it seemed he was the naive one.

With someone like Cai Zhao—smiling sweetly but striking ruthlessly—if Yin Qinglian and her mother dared bully her, she’d probably dig up the Yin family’s ancestral graves overnight and plant a field of dogtail grass in their place.Min Xinrou noticed Qi Lingbo was seething with anger. While gently patting her back to soothe her, Min said tearfully in her soft voice, "Don't be angry, Zhao Zhao. It's all my fault. Please don't take it out on Lingbo. Whatever wrong there is, it's entirely mine. If you're truly upset, you can hit or scold me. My greatest mistake was confessing my admiration for Cousin Zhou during your aunt's memorial day last year..."

Qi Lingbo seized the moment to interject, "How can this be your fault! Sister Xinrou, you're so gentle and lovely that everyone adores you. I'm sure Young Master Zhou must fancy you too..."

Min Xinrou hastily interrupted, "No no no, it's purely my one-sided affection. Cousin only sees me as a younger sister! In any case, Zhao Zhao, please don't blame me for my foolish devotion."

When Cai Zhao heard the words "younger sister," her jaw tightened imperceptibly, and her smile grew colder. "Why would I blame Sister Xinrou? We've known each other since childhood, sharing a bond deeper than ordinary sisters."

Seeing the icy glint in Cai Zhao's eyes, Min Xinrou began to sense trouble.

Qi Lingbo, oblivious to the tension, pressed on bluntly, "Let's speak plainly. Since you know Sister Xinrou's feelings, why not both marry into the Zhou family? You could address each other as sisters and support one another. Wouldn't that be wonderful?" Whether the plan succeeded or not, she'd be delighted as long as it irritated Cai Zhao.

Cai Zhao shot her a disdainful glance. "Given how close Senior Sister and I are, why don't you marry into the Zhou family with me instead? Then we could be together every single day—wouldn't that be even more wonderful?!"

"You—you're spouting nonsense!" Qi Lingbo nearly exploded with rage.

Min Xinrou, who understood Cai Zhao far better than Qi Lingbo, realized Cai Zhao was truly angered now. She desperately tried to pull Qi Lingbo away, but the latter stubbornly refused to budge.

Cai Zhao sneered. "My aunt showed great kindness to Old Madam Min, to the Min father and son, and especially to Madam Min—if not for my aunt, Madam Min would have either been seized by that Elder Tianshu as a cultivation cauldron or become some Altar Lord's twenty-eighth concubine! And now you want to call me 'sister'? Is this how you repay kindness?"

"Martial artists help others without expecting repayment! Who goes around flaunting favors like you do? Besides, there's Young Master Zhou to consider—he's so filial to his grandmother and mother. Wouldn't he want to properly care for the Min family and Sister Xinrou? Ask yourself this: if Young Master Zhou had to choose, would he pick you or Sister Xinrou?!" Qi Lingbo wobbled as Min Xinrou tugged at her but refused to leave.

Cai Zhao let out a cold laugh. "So Senior Sister is determined to help Sister Xinrou. The Min family, being so upright and honorable, would never be ungrateful. Since Sister Xinrou wants both to marry into the Zhou family and repay kindness, here's my proposal..."

She slapped the table. "You can be the secondary wife while I'm the principal. I'll eat while you serve dishes. I'll wash my feet while you fetch water. And once you enter the household, we'll rename you 'Daizi'! How about 'Min Daizi' from then on?" [Note]

Even Min Xinrou's resilient composure couldn't withstand such humiliation. With a choked sob, she covered her face and fled in tears. Qi Lingbo gaped in shock before turning her stunned gaze to Cai Zhao.

Cai Zhao smiled sweetly. "If Senior Sister Qi ever tires of marrying into the Song family, you're welcome at our Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Just change your name to 'Qi Daizi,' and you're all set."Qi Lingbo stamped her foot angrily, flicked her sleeve, and stormed off with a stiff expression.

Only after everyone had left did Cai Zhao sit down, snorting coldly. "Those two—one a true villain, the other a hypocrite—might as well be sworn sisters from different parents!"

Chang Ning waited for Cai Zhao to calm down before speaking slowly. "Didn’t you always nag me about 'harmony brings wealth'? Why are you so worked up now?"

Cai Zhao replied, "I can be 'harmonious' with anyone—except those who wronged my aunt. The Min family all received kindness from her. I don’t expect them to remember the favor, but the least they could do is refrain from cursing her behind her back!"

"If the Min family is so despicable, why did your aunt arrange your engagement to Zhou Yuqi?! Sending a lamb into a tiger’s den," Chang Ning mocked.

Cai Zhao grew agitated. "Perhaps Aunt felt guilty toward Uncle Zhou." She still remembered the look in Cai Pingshu’s eyes as she lay dying, gazing at Zhou Zhizhen—full of remorse.

"What does she have to feel guilty about?" Chang Ning scoffed lightly. "Zhou Yuqi is two years older than you. Counting backward, that means Old Master Zhou married and had a son immediately after the Tushan battle. Even if your aunt’s health prevented her from marrying and bearing children, he didn’t have to be in such a hurry!"

"Because it was my aunt who personally urged Uncle Zhou to marry quickly."

Chang Ning was caught off guard and startled again.

Cai Zhao sighed. "No matter how much Old Madam Min pleaded or pressured, Uncle Zhou originally refused to marry Madam Min. It was only after my aunt begged him repeatedly that he agreed. Didn’t Great Hero Chang tell you any of this?"

Chang Ning muttered, "Why didn’t my father mention this at all?"

Cai Zhao smiled faintly. "My mother said that at the time, Old Master Zhou was already on his deathbed, and his final wish was to see Uncle Zhou married. But even then, Uncle Zhou refused to agree. Uncle Zhou is a good man. Three years ago, he stayed by my aunt’s sickbed, watching her take her last breath. He wept until he fainted and later fell seriously ill."

Chang Ning fell silent.

For someone like Zhou Zhizhen, whose internal energy cultivation was profound, falling ill was rare, let alone fainting. It showed just how deeply he had been grieving.

"I see," Chang Ning said suddenly, understanding. "That’s why Old Master Zhou insisted on seeing his son married before his death. If he hadn’t, given how deeply Master Zhou loved your aunt, no one could have forced him to marry after the old master passed."

"Exactly. That’s why Aunt always felt guilty toward Uncle Zhou," Cai Zhao murmured sadly. "Our grandparents passed early, and Old Master Zhou cared for Aunt and my father for years, treating them as his own. As for Uncle Zhou—Aunt once said when they first arrived at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor, though he was young, he looked after them meticulously. He even personally delivered charcoal for warmth, never letting Aunt suffer the slightest hardship."

She sighed and continued, "So when Uncle Zhou proposed continuing the engagement, my mother agreed before Aunt could even speak."

Chang Ning glanced at Cai Zhao. "Your mother stepped in to spare your aunt the difficulty of refusing, didn’t she?"

Cai Zhao sighed helplessly. "In my mother’s eyes, nothing in the world matters more than Aunt."

"And what if you end up married to the wrong person?""My mother said, 'If the marriage doesn't work out, just marry again—it's just changing one match for another, no big deal. If you don't want to marry, you can always return to Fallen Blossom Valley and take a husband there. After all, it's not the first time the valley has had a son-in-law take charge.'"

This time, it was Chang Ning's turn to sigh.

He had no understanding of romantic relationships, so he couldn't judge whether Cai Pingshu's apology—'I can't marry you but still urge you to marry someone else'—was normal or not. He just felt inexplicably frustrated.

"Alright, let's talk about Zhou Yuqi. After all, he's the one you're going to marry. What's he like?"

A faint expression, as if she wanted to laugh but shouldn't, appeared on Cai Zhao's face. "He's naturally a good person—refined, gentle, and kind to others."

"What about martial arts skills?"

Cai Zhao blinked her big eyes: "Considering the friendship between our families, well, it's hard to say who'd win."

Chang Ning narrowed his eyes: "If we disregard the family ties and you went all out?"

"I'd make him scram within a hundred and thirty-eight moves."

Hearing the satisfaction in Cai Zhao's tone, Chang Ning couldn't help but laugh: "Has Zhou Yuqi been treating Min Xinrou particularly well? Have you disliked him for a long time?"

"Ah, actually, Brother Yuqi isn't a bad person. He's always been very accommodating to me. My mother said Uncle Zhou was the same way before—not because he had ulterior motives, but because he was raised to be too gentle and refined, always showing tenderness to women, unwilling to scold or hit them. But that's not a big deal. If he can't bring himself to scold or hit, I'll do it for him."

Chang Ning was left speechless.

After a moment of contemplation, he turned to face Cai Zhao solemnly, speaking earnestly for the first time in his life—

"Marriage is no trivial matter after all. Now that your aunt has passed away, breaking off the engagement wouldn't be a big deal. Master Zhou dotes on you so much—if you said you didn’t want to marry Zhou Yuqi, he’d surely agree. The Min Family would get their wish, and the Zhou and Cai families wouldn’t fall out. Calling off the engagement wouldn’t hurt anyone."

Cai Zhao looked astonished: "Why call it off? It's not that I don’t want to marry Zhou Yuqi. I’m willing to marry him. Where did you get the idea that I’m unhappy about it?"

Chang Ning: "..."

"I’ve thought it through—marrying Zhou Yuqi is a good deal. First, he can’t beat me, and Uncle Zhou always has my back. I can do whatever I want at Jade Pendant Mountain Manor. Hmph, that old woman from the Min Family was nasty to my aunt back then, and Madam Min is even worse. I’ll make sure to 'serve' them both properly later. If they dare use filial piety to control me, I’ll crush them with gratitude!"

"...So you’re actually going for revenge?"

"Ah, revenge sounds so harsh. It’s better to resolve grievances than to create them. Second, Jade Pendant Mountain Manor has beautiful scenery and bustling markets. The surrounding towns have everything you could want—it’s even livelier than Fallen Blossom Valley. I’ve thought about it since I was little: live in Fallen Blossom Valley before marriage, and Jade Pendant Mountain Manor after. Perfect!"

"Wealth and luxury are fleeting. Upholding justice is the true path," Chang Ning countered mechanically, feeling like he’d used up a lifetime’s worth of righteous speeches tonight.

"Does upholding justice conflict with enjoying prosperity and excitement? Besides, your father has hoarded mountains of gold and silver—how can you say such things with a straight face?"

"..."

"Third, the Zhou family is quite amiable—and anyone who isn’t can’t beat me anyway. The older uncles and elders were close to my aunt, and now Brother Yuqian and Brother Yukun are close to me. Uncle Zhou agrees with everything I say, and since Brother Yuqi can’t beat me or out-argue me, once the doors are closed, Jade Pendant Mountain Manor will be mine to rule! Don’t you think that’s great, Senior Brother Chang?" The more Cai Zhao thought about it, the brighter and more satisfied she felt.

"Senior Brother, Senior Brother Chang, why are you silent again?" Cai Zhao began waving her hand in front of Chang Ning’s face.

"...I need some quiet."

Cai Zhao paused, realizing this wasn’t about a helpless maiden being bullied after all.

A sharp-faced youth nearby jeered: "Exactly! Chang Ning, you were supposed to die! If not for our master’s efforts, you’d be long gone!"

Another square-jawed youth sneered: "You survived, but you took the Snow Lotus Pill our master meant for our senior sister, ruining her cultivation. Admit it—don’t you deserve to die a thousand times over?"The surrounding youths jeered in unison, "Just obediently let us take a bowl of your heart's blood, and we'll let you go... Haha, otherwise, we'll skin you alive and pull out your tendons..."

The tall, thin youth named Chang Ning slightly turned his body. "Who exactly claimed my heart's blood has the same effect as the Snow Lotus Pill?" His clothes were dull and worn, but his tone was calm and unhurried, though his voice was hoarse, as if he had suffered severe injuries.

"You all know perfectly well that I'm not just injured but also poisoned with a strange toxin. Do you really want the heart's blood of someone like me, still riddled with lingering poison?" Chang Ning turned around, revealing a face covered in festering sores—some had scabbed over with black, hardened crusts, while others still oozed pus, truly revolting.

The youths all recoiled in disgust.

"You're not after my heart's blood at all—you just want to make trouble for me." Chang Ning faced the crowd directly. Despite his horrifying, grotesque face, his eyes were as clear and beautiful as the bright moon.

"I will never submit. If you have the guts, take my life and be done with it. Otherwise, I will repay you tenfold."

A few of the youths began to waver.

"Hey, this kid is the son of the Sect Leader's close friend. If the Sect Leader finds out..."

"Let's just forget it. We're only outer disciples—what if the Sect Leader gets angry and expels us?"

"Senior Sister, what if the Sect Leader punishes us?"

The beautiful girl bit her lip. "He's the reason my cultivation has stagnated. Even if we don't take his heart's blood, we can't let him off easily. Hmm... Let's just beat him up. If my father asks, we'll insist it was just a friendly spar between fellow disciples! We're martial artists—it's not like we'd go tattling over a few punches. My father wouldn't punish us for that!"

This plan was clearly much lower risk, and the youths quickly agreed. Just as they were rolling up their sleeves to advance on the boy, a leisurely, unhurried girl's voice suddenly rang out behind them—"Have you had enough fun yet?"

Startled, they all turned to see a young girl in flowing embroidered robes standing quietly behind them. Sunlight filtered through the forest leaves, casting dappled light on her, making her rosy cheeks and fair, delicate features stand out even more.

"The day after tomorrow is the 200th anniversary of the Patriarch's passing. Nearly every notable sect in the martial world has gathered here. If other sects see you causing such a scene, won't it disgrace the Azure Tower Sect?" she said helplessly.

—She had initially thought it was a group bullying a girl, but it turned out to be a girl leading a group to bully someone else. What a waste of her righteous indignation.

When beauties meet, jealousy naturally arises. The pretty girl stepped forward at the head of her group and shouted, "Where did this little wench come from? What business is it of yours how the Azure Tower Sect disciplines its own disciples?" She assumed Cai Zhao was a disciple from a sect outside the Big Dipper Six Branches—after all, there were very few in the world who could stand tall before the Azure Tower Sect.

Cai Zhao replied leisurely, "Of course it's my business, because in a few days, I'll be joining Sect Leader Qi's sect. Since it'll soon be my own sect's reputation at stake, don't you think I should care? By then, I'll even have to call you 'Senior Sister Qi.'" In terms of brain stuffing, this young lady was a perfect match for that Young Master Song from earlier.

Qi Lingbo froze, her expression uncertain. "You... you're from Fallen Blossom Valley... Cai Zhao?""Exactly." Hearing the girl repeatedly refer to "my father," Cai Zhao guessed she must be Sect Leader Qi's daughter.

Qi Lingbo thought of her father's enthusiasm for Fallen Blossom Valley and felt a twinge of hesitation. But the boys around her had long been her followers—if she backed down now, intimidated by Cai Zhao’s words, how could she maintain her dignity in front of them?

"Junior Sister Cai, you’ve just arrived at Myriad Waters, Thousand Mountains Cliff," Qi Lingbo forced a sweet smile. "It’s getting late—you should return to the guest quarters. Since you’re new here, there are things you don’t yet understand. This matter has nothing to do with you."

Cai Zhao raised an eyebrow. "What if I refuse to leave?"

Qi Lingbo’s smile remained bright, but her tone carried a veiled threat. "There are only two girls among my father’s disciples. We should get along well in the years to come. If you insist on being stubborn and ruin our sisterly bond, how will we train together as fellow disciples?"

Cai Zhao considered this seriously. "No problem. I don’t care much for martial arts anyway. My parents never taught me any. You can focus on your training, Senior Sister, while I read books and enjoy the scenery."

"If you don’t like martial arts, why are you here?" Qi Lingbo’s smile stiffened.

"To become a disciple, of course. I want to be the master’s student." Cai Zhao was growing tired of explaining.

"If you’re not here to learn martial arts, why bother becoming my father’s disciple?" Qi Lingbo couldn’t wrap her head around it. The Azure Tower Sect’s martial arts were renowned throughout the land, drawing countless aspirants every year.

Cai Zhao replied smoothly, "Senior Sister, you make it sound as if everyone in the world is driven by self-interest. Isn’t cultivating virtue and character just as important? Sect Leader Qi is a man of renowned integrity and benevolence—if I can learn even a fraction of that, it’ll benefit me for life… Why are you all looking at me like that? Did I say something wrong?"

—For example, when a shop owner gives an opening speech, would they bluntly declare they’re here to make money, lots of money? Of course not—they’d say it’s to serve the community and foster goodwill.

The boys shifted awkwardly, mumbling vague agreements. Qi Lingbo’s expression darkened. "What a silver tongue you have. It seems our Azure Tower Sect can’t accommodate someone as lofty as you!"

Cai Zhao laughed. "Are you threatening to have me barred from the sect? But is it really up to you whether I’m accepted as a disciple?" Employees answer to managers, and managers answer to the owner—how could this girl not understand such a simple principle? Poor Uncle Qi, such a kind and amiable man, yet his daughter had no sense.

Qi Lingbo choked.

Cai Zhao pressed on, "If Sect Leader Qi insists on taking me as a disciple, and you object, does that mean he’ll obey your command and refuse me?"

Hearing the muffled laughter behind her, Qi Lingbo’s face twisted with humiliation.

Had Song Yuzhi been there, he would’ve warned Qi Lingbo not to argue with Cai Zhao—not even to speak, lest she be infuriated to death.

Qi Lingbo hissed, "Chang Ning offended me, and today I intend to vent my anger. If you refuse to step aside, as your senior sister, I’ll have to teach you some manners."

She had already decided—since Cai Zhao’s martial skills were weak, she might as well slap her a few times to vent her frustration. If her father questioned her later, she’d insist she was merely testing Cai Zhao’s abilities, unaware of her own strength.