Moonlight Mystique

Chapter Fifty-Four

"Pah! Nothing but empty gestures. If Jin Yao truly wished to mend relations, he should just hand over those hundred miles of blessed cave heavens between our realms to the Yao Race. What’s the point of all this mystical Phoenix Tree Martial Banquet?"

Inside the stone chamber, Mu Jiu sneered. Just as everyone’s attention wavered, Nan Wan suddenly leaped up, reaching for the two Phoenix Heart Flames hovering in midair.

"Despicable!"

But someone was faster. Mu Jiu instantly flung out his Minor Annihilation Wheel, slashing toward the immortal sword.

The sword light was split apart, and the two heart flames flickered unsteadily.

The immortal sword and the Minor Annihilation Wheel clashed, their spiritual power evenly matched, neither gaining the upper hand.

Bai Shuo watched the dazzling display, nudging Chong Zhao and whispering, "A-Zhao, no rush. Let them fight first…" She made a gesture. "Wait till they’re exhausted, then you strike."

Chong Zhao had been brooding over the incident outside the stone tomb earlier, but seeing Bai Shuo so concerned for him, his frown eased slightly.

"Brother Bei Chen! Act now!" Nan Wan’s immortal power was gradually being overpowered by Mu Jiu. Seeing himself at a disadvantage, he urgently shouted toward Bei Chen, "This contest is ultimately a battle between the immortal and Yao races!"

Bei Chen frowned and swung his sword, forcibly separating Nan Wan’s immortal sword and the Minor Annihilation Wheel with a single strike. Under the residual immortal power, the two heart flames scattered—one flying toward Mu Jiu, the other hurtling straight toward Bai Shuo and the other two.

Bai Shuo reacted swiftly, pushing Chong Zhao forward. The heart flame collided with him, landing squarely in his palm, while the other was caught by Mu Jiu.

Nan Wan and Mu Jiu were about to attack Chong Zhao when the Kunlun Iron Sword whistled through the air, positioning itself protectively in front of him.

"Tonight’s two trials were overcome through the joint efforts of both immortal and Yao races. One flame for each race—fair and square." Bei Chen’s calm voice rang out.

Aside from the mysterious blacksmith, Bei Chen was the most powerful in the stone chamber. Might made right, and Mu Jiu was no fool. He ceased his attack, twirling the heart flame in his hand as he cast a mocking smile toward Nan Wan.

"Fair enough. I agree." Mu Jiu then turned his gaze to Chong Zhao. "Who would’ve thought the immortal race’s Phoenix Heart Flame would end up neither with Kunlun nor with Cloud Sky? Boy, after this banquet, your Misty Sect is going to make a name for itself."

Chong Zhao remained composed, saying little. With a flick of his palm, the heart flame vanished into his grasp. He cupped his hands slightly toward Bei Chen. "Many thanks, Lord Bei Chen."

Anyone could see that Bei Chen’s sword strike had deliberately directed the two flames to Mu Jiu and Chong Zhao.

"We are peers. No need for such formality." Bei Chen nodded.

"Bei Chen, what is the meaning of this?" Nan Wan, witnessing the outcome, flushed with anger and demanded furiously.

"Resolving Sect Leader Rong Xian’s lingering resentment was primarily Misty Sect’s achievement. This heart flame is rightfully his." Bei Chen glanced at Bai Shuo, his tone indifferent.

Bai Shuo raised an eyebrow. Kunlun’s Sword Cultivators were righteous—definitely worth befriending!

"The Phoenix Tree Martial Banquet concerns the Three Realms. If you wish to repay old debts from Kunlun’s past, that has nothing to do with Cloud Sky!" Nan Wan glared coldly at Chong Zhao.

Bei Chen stepped forward, shielding Chong Zhao.

Nan Wan’s expression darkened. "What, is Kunlun openly declaring war against Cloud Sky?"

"Kunlun fears nothing." Bei Chen didn’t even lift his eyelids, his voice as frosty as ever.

"You—!"

Nan Wan was livid, pointing his immortal sword at Bei Chen.

The stone chamber instantly became a powder keg. Bai Shuo gulped. Damn, after a whole night of chaos, were they really going to fight now?She tugged at her little disciple and Chong Zhao's sleeves, about to hide behind Hua Da Tie when suddenly, beams of light shot down from the stone chamber, blinding rays striking the group. Fan Yue swiftly pulled Bai Shuo into his embrace as everyone braced for danger.

Moments later, the light dissipated. When they opened their eyes, they found themselves still standing before the three nameless graves in front of the thatched hut.

There was no stone chamber, nor the stone door carved with the Kunlun Fox Clan's totem.

Bai Shuo looked utterly bewildered. Fan Yue frowned, his gaze turning toward the hut. Even Hua Da Tie's usual playful expression darkened, his eyes turning cold.

"What just happened?" Mu Jiu pinched his own cheek, staring blankly at their surroundings. "Did I just dream all that?"

"No." Bei Chen glanced at the Phoenix Heart Flame in Mu Jiu's hand. "The Heart Flame is real. The stone chamber was an illusion. We were trapped in a phantom realm just now."

"A phantom realm?" Mu Jiu was speechless, nearly cursing. "This damned place has sealed all spiritual power. Who could possibly cast an illusion here?"

"It only restricts immortals and demons. The spiritual power of the Yicheng natives isn't sealed. The only one who could cast an illusion in Yicheng is naturally the King of Yicheng." Bei Chen spoke calmly, his gaze fixed on the hut.

"Truly worthy of Kunlun's Sword Cultivators, to sense my power." A deep voice suddenly echoed across the clearing. A flash of blue light appeared before the hut, revealing two figures.

The leader wore a solemn expression, crowned and towering in stature. Behind him stood Wu Zhao, Yicheng's deputy general who had greeted them upon arrival, now bowing respectfully.

The newcomer's overwhelming aura left no doubt about his identity. Everyone quickly cupped their hands in salute.

"Greetings, King of Yicheng."

Only Hua Da Tie remained unmoved, staring coldly at the king.

Bai Shuo hastily tugged at Hua Da Tie's sleeve, shooting her a meaningful look, but Hua Da Tie's expression remained icy, her stance unyielding.

"No need for formalities." The King's gaze lingered briefly on Hua Da Tie before sweeping over the group, his demeanor softening. "Jin Yao was right—the rising talents of the immortal and demon races are indeed remarkable, to have dispelled Rong Xian's thousand-year resentment. Since your two races have each obtained a Phoenix Heart Flame, you've passed the first two trials set by the Immortal Throne. Congratulations."

With these words, the King confirmed the ownership of the two Heart Flames. Nan Wan's expression darkened as she glanced at the sky and raised her voice. "Your Majesty, may we know what the third trial entails? Please speak plainly. With only eight hours left before Yicheng's reopening, and the first two trials having consumed two full days, we can't afford more riddles."

Though Nan Wan's words were blunt, they held truth. The first two trials had been arduous enough—the third would surely be worse. Time was running out. Without obtaining the third Heart Flame, this Martial Banquet would be for naught.

"I came precisely to reveal the location of the third Phoenix Heart Flame," the King declared.

Nan Wan froze, disbelief flashing in her eyes. She'd only asked rhetorically—was the King truly going to tell them?

The others exchanged glances, sharing the same thought.

Was this another trap? They'd suffered enough from this Martial Banquet's schemes.

"The third Heart Flame was placed by Immortal Jin Yao within the spiritual platforms of all Yicheng's citizens. The third trial is simple: tonight is Yicheng's annual Burning Orchid Festival. All citizens will gather before the palace, willingly offering their spiritual flames. Whoever our people collectively choose shall become the owner of the third Phoenix Heart Flame."The owner of the third Heartfire is to be chosen by the people of Yicheng? What kind of absurd rule is this? Those guys have absolutely no connection with the citizens of Yicheng!

"Your Majesty, surely you're not joking with us? The people of Yicheng probably don't even recognize our faces—how could they choose? What if they refuse to choose at all?" Mu Jiu quickly questioned.

The King of Yicheng glanced at Mu Jiu. "The rules of this trial were jointly decided by Immortal Jin Yao and the Clan Chiefs and Lords of the Yao Race. If you have doubts, you may ask them after the trial concludes—once we return to the Phoenix Island of the Wutong Tree."

Seeing the cold, stern expression on the King of Yicheng's face, Mu Jiu immediately swallowed his playful demeanor and tightly shut his mouth.

Though the Yicheng people possessed no spiritual power, they were born with divine strength, capable of splitting mountains and parting seas. It was said that the King of Yicheng had already weathered three Heavenly Tribulations with his overwhelming power a century ago, reaching the Peak of the Upper Realm. Mu Jiu wasn’t tired of living—he had no desire to provoke this living King of Hell.

"I have already informed you all of the location of the third Wutong Heartfire and explained the rules. There is nothing more you need to do. Since you have resolved the thousand-year resentment Rong Xian cast upon Yicheng, you have done our city a great favor. I have prepared a banquet in the palace to welcome you. Please rest and wait peacefully until tonight."

With that, the King of Yicheng turned to leave but suddenly paused. He looked at Hua Da Tie. "The day after tomorrow is the anniversary of your mother’s passing. Since you’ve returned, pay your respects at her royal tomb."

After speaking, the King of Yicheng moved swiftly, leaping a hundred li in a single bound toward the Yicheng Palace in the city, vanishing from sight.

Everyone turned to Hua Da Tie. Mu Jiu stared at him blankly. "Royal tomb? The King of Yicheng shares the surname 'Hua'..." His fox-like eyes widened. "You're that Princess Hua Hong—the one born with divine strength but exiled from Yicheng?!"

Hua Da Tie glanced at Mu Jiu indifferently, offering no denial.

Mu Jiu's words carried immense implications. The group stared at Hua Da Tie, whose face was painted like a theatrical performer, utterly bewildered.

Bai Shuo looked from Mu Jiu to Hua Hong, speechless. What kind of spoiled heirs were these? Each one stranger than the last!

The exile of the Yicheng Princess was a well-kept secret across the Three Realms. Yet, judging by the King of Yicheng's earlier attitude, it seemed Hua Hong was the one who held more disdain for her father.

Nan Wan's eyes gleamed as an idea struck him. The winner of the third trial would be chosen by the people of Yicheng. If he could befriend Hua Hong, a single word from her could rally the entire city.

"Your High—" Nan Wan began with a smile, but Wu Zhao, as if anticipating his move, stepped forward and cut him off. He clasped his hands toward the group. "The banquet in the palace is ready for you all. Please, this way."

Mu Jiu stretched lazily. "Let’s go, let’s go! Lead the way, Your Highness here is starving for good wine and meat—I’m exhausted!"

Bei Chen also nodded at Wu Zhao. "Thank you."

Only after the Fairy and Demon Disciples agreed to attend the banquet did Wu Zhao turn to Hua Hong. "Your Highness—"

"This brat stole my chicken. I’m just following her—wherever she goes, I go. What Yicheng Princess? Has nothing to do with me." Hua Da Tie yawned, eyeing Bai Shuo. "Palace. You going?"

Bai Shuo, utterly confused, nodded under the collective gaze of the group. "Yeah, yeah."

Wu Zhao's face twitched, but he said nothing more, leading the group down the mountain.

Bai Shuo trailed at the very back, poking Hua Da Tie’s waist. "Your High—"Hua Hong shot a sharp glare at Bai Shuo, who quickly corrected herself, "Old Hua, can we not bring up the chicken-stealing incident? It wasn’t just me who ate it..." She threw a meaningful glance at the little disciple ahead. "He ate more—go after him instead."

Her heavily powdered face stiffened. She lazily swept Bai Shuo with a glance, her towering aura suddenly deflating as she fell silent.

Bai Shuo’s eyes darted, sensing something amiss. She quietly sidled up to Chong Zhao and whispered, "A-Zhao, be careful once we enter the Yicheng Palace."

Chong Zhao frowned but knew Bai Shuo never spoke idly. "Why?"

Bai Shuo hastily recounted her encounter with the monster. "There’s something evil in this city, yet the King of Yicheng hasn’t noticed a thing. I can’t shake the feeling something’s off about this place—it’s unsettling."

Chong Zhao’s expression hardened. So he wasn’t the only one who had encountered that creature that night.

"Stay close to me once we enter the palace."

Seeing Chong Zhao’s solemn expression, Bai Shuo’s mind, however, wandered elsewhere as she absentmindedly replied, "Oh."

Chong Zhao gave Fan Yue a heavy look before suddenly asking, "Who is he, really?"

"Who? Ah—!" Bai Shuo snapped out of her daze, flustered. Her foot caught on a rock, and she nearly stumbled. Chong Zhao moved to steady her, but someone was faster.

The youth firmly grasped Bai Shuo’s arm, pulling her away from Chong Zhao as he steadied her. "Master, watch your step."

His voice was deep, his gaze fixed solely on Bai Shuo.

"You scared me, Mu Mu. You’re the best." Bai Shuo reflexively patted his head and grinned.

Chong Zhao watched the two, his lips pressed tight, before turning away.

"A-Zhao..." Bai Shuo suddenly remembered Chong Zhao’s earlier question and turned back, only to see the young man’s retreating, silent figure.

Oh no—with A-Zhao’s temperament, he must be angry! She couldn’t keep Fan Yue’s identity from him any longer. Panicked, Bai Shuo was about to chase after him when a firm hand gripped hers.

She turned and met the youth’s cool gaze—one that lacked the innocence of a disciple and instead carried a hint of the amusement once held by the Lord of Haoyue Hall. Bai Shuo’s heart skipped a beat as she gulped and cautiously called, "Mu Mu?"

"Master? What’s wrong?" Fan Yue tilted his head, his expression pure and harmless.

Bai Shuo rubbed her eyes, and the youth simply blinked at her.

Thank heavens her little disciple was still here! If the great demon had truly regained his memories, slapping her to death would’ve been mercy—he’d never call her "Master" unless hell froze over!

Bai Shuo let out a long sigh of relief, unaware of the faintest flicker of joy deep in her heart. Perhaps it wasn’t just about dodging death, but...

What if he could just stay as Mu Mu—her little disciple?

"Alright, you two. Everyone’s gone ahead. If you don’t hurry, there’ll be nothing left but the wind."

The blacksmith’s cough suddenly sounded beside them. Bai Shuo snapped back to reality, her face inexplicably warm as she shook off Fan Yue’s hand and dashed downhill.

The youth chuckled, scratching his head before leisurely following after her.

"Last night, that evil creature couldn’t last three moves against you. Yicheng’s Spirit-Locking Array had no effect on you, and even Rong Xian’s Golden Core couldn’t harm you. She’s barely an immortal—how could she possibly be your Master?"

Hua Hong, who had somehow started chewing on a wild grass stem, spoke without moving her lips, her voice ringing in Fan Yue’s ears alone.

The youth paused mid-step but acted as though he hadn’t heard."Aren't you even slightly curious about your identity? Perhaps I could help." Hua Hong raised an eyebrow when the youth didn't respond.

"No need. Whoever you are, don't touch her." The youth's gaze turned icy as he looked at Hua Hong. "If I can kill Rong Xian, I can kill you too."

Having said this, Fan Yue turned and walked away, leaving Hua Hong staring speechlessly at the sky.

My Lord, what grave injustice! I'm your most devoted little loyal follower!

The blacksmith wallowed in melancholy for a brief moment before suddenly having an idea. Turning to watch the youth's retreating figure, his eyes gleamed with mischief as he let out an eerie chuckle.

Well, it was you who refused my help in restoring your memories, old man. Calling him "Master" so smoothly, fawning like a puppy... When you finally remember, I'll have front-row seats to the show! Hehehe!