Zhan Zhao Adventures

(One)

Clouds swelled. The pale sun drifted in and out of the layers of clouds, imperceptibly shifting swiftly westward.

Xue Laogen sat barefoot at the bow of the boat, silently weaving the tattered banner in his hands. His large, veined hands, though calloused thick from years of rowing, moved with surprising dexterity as they twisted the worn fabric.

His head hung low, watching the cords writhe like snakes in his grasp. Suddenly, he felt an indescribable nausea.

The bloody battle had ended. The troops of Xiangyang Royal Mansion had withdrawn, yet why did the morning’s events still cling to him like a nightmare, coiling around him like a venomous serpent?

For no reason, he was afraid. He didn’t know if this nightmare would ever end.

He hadn’t wanted to return to the ferry so soon, but the children at home were waiting for the vegetable soup and steamed buns bought with his earnings from ferrying and fishing.

He also knew that before long, the other townsfolk would, like him, eventually return.

—Perhaps it wouldn’t take long for ordinary life to resume. Even the banners soliciting business by the ferry would be raised again. But how long would it take for every person in West Bridge Ferry Town to forget what had happened here?

The river surged onward, never to return. How long until today’s events became the past, and how long until the past faded like smoke?

Xue Laogen stared at his bronzed, weathered hands, wishing for a moment that he were blind.

—If he were blind, would he not have seen all the bloodshed?

Suddenly, the simple fisherman sensed a pair of eyes watching his hands.

An inexplicable chill ran through him. His work slowed.

—They were very beautiful eyes.

Eyes that should have been clear and lively as water now seemed dead.

Those eyes belonged to a youth in a yellow robe.

The youth had a strikingly handsome face. Not only did it feature those large, beautiful eyes, but also a pair of slightly gleaming rabbit teeth.

—In all his years ferrying at West Bridge, Xue Laogen had never seen a face more radiant.

It should have been a carefree, proud, and joyful face, yet now it was gaunt and sorrowful.

The yellow-robed youth seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, standing far off by the ferry, right where the bloody battle had just taken place.

His gaze lingered on the man in the boat. After a moment’s hesitation, he slowly began to approach.

Only when the youth was very close did Xue Laogen notice that though his robes were fine, they were disheveled, and one sleeve seemed shorter than the other. Only the pearl adorning his lapel shimmered faintly in the sunlight.

Xue Laogen’s eyes fixed abruptly.

—In his decades of life, toiling by the water, he had seen the wealth of countless travelers and the boasts of riches, but never a pearl of such flawless quality.

It wasn’t a greedy look; Xue Laogen was an honest, simple man. It was the appreciative gaze of a farmer beholding plump ears of wheat in his own field.

The yellow-robed youth had noticed his stare.Seeing his casual attention, Old Gen Xue's heart inexplicably trembled. He had already stood up, hunched and submissive.

The heavy burdens of life had deeply bowed his back, carving the marks of time and hardship on his face. These marks shaped him into someone who only spoke what guests wanted to hear and what needed to be said.

"Does the young master wish to cross to the other shore?"

The youth in yellow slowly nodded. His head seemed to have become indescribably heavy.

Old Gen Xue obediently set down the flag in his hand and turned to retrieve the oars that had been resting on the bank. Another job to earn money meant that tonight, the steamed buns on the small dinner table would be thicker, and the soup richer.

When he looked back, he found the youth in yellow robes had already seated himself in the boat.

But the youth's hand was slightly raised. Pinched between his fingers was that pearl taken from his lapel.

The pearl's magnificent, innocent radiance made Old Gen Xue's chest tighten. His lips quivered, uncertain what this strange youth intended to do.

Seeing Old Gen Xue's confused gaze, the youth in yellow robes in the boat slowly spoke. To Old Gen Xue's ears, his voice sounded incredibly hoarse and suppressed.

"If you tell me what happened here today, this pearl is yours."

Old Gen Xue involuntarily stepped back. His legs were already weakening. He couldn't tell if he was dreaming or not.

Telling this youth everything meant reliving today's nightmare. He absolutely did not want to recall this nightmare. Yet not telling him meant giving up this heaven-sent wealth that could secure the rest of his life.

The rippling water reflected faint yet dazzling scales of light under the slightly westward sun.

The dream seemed to linger yet fade, but the person was about to depart.

His lips had already begun to tremble.

The youth in yellow in the boat, however, seemed to care about nothing and was in no hurry.

His hand was steady, the pearl in it seemingly brighter than his eyes.

He appeared not to be looking at Old Gen Xue at all. His eyes were gazing up at the leisurely white clouds billowing with the wind in the sky.

When white clouds depart, new ones will come. But what about people?

(2)

By the time the wind began to blow again, the sky had darkened. It was unclear whether rain was approaching or night was falling.

Shao Jizu's black cloak was mercilessly whipped by the wind. His handsome face, like this gloomy storm, was iron-gray and devoid of expression.

The cliffs on both sides slanted as if about to collapse.

A fine drizzle finally began to drift down from the low-hanging clouds atop the cliffs.

But Shao Jizu seemed unaware of it all.

At this moment, he was examining his discovery on the ground.

Deng Che, standing beside him, silently opened a bamboo umbrella for him. The imperial guards behind him moved lightly, not daring to make any noise. Only Deng Che was different. He was now the only one who could speak in Shao Jizu's presence.

Deng Che lowered the bamboo umbrella slightly. Even when suppressing his voice, his rough throat made it sound loud.

"If Master Mo and the others succeeded in pursuing Zhan Zhao's companions, they should have sent a carrier pigeon message long ago. From afternoon until now, why hasn't there been any news?"Shao Jizu straightened up without speaking, his eyes filled with deep contemplation.

Deng Che cautiously observed his expression and added, "This matter has been delayed for so long, it's not a solution after all. Since Chief Zhong and the others have captured Zhan Zhao, we should be able to get some information from him about where the prince's Alliance Token has ended up."

Shao Jizu finally shook his head and said, "Expecting Zhan Zhao to talk is nothing but wishful thinking. Even if his life weren't hanging by a thread in the hands of the King of Hell, even if he fell into their hands completely unharmed, Chief Zhong and Master Mo probably couldn't make him reveal the whereabouts of his companion."

Deng Che said bitterly, "If Zhong Xiong hadn't interfered and stood by doing nothing, the battle at West Bridge Crossing wouldn't have cost Master Mo so much time, caused so many casualties among our men, and nearly cost Master Mo his own life. If this matter reaches the prince, he'll likely find excuses to shift all blame when reporting to His Highness."

Shao Jizu sneered, "Zhong Xiong has always thought highly of himself. Besides the prince, he never easily respects anyone. His Iron Blood Guards from Junshan have always been secretly competing with our Jinshi Hall. This time he was defeated by Zhan Zhao and even captured by him. If he fully assisted Master Mo now, wouldn't that let Jinshi Hall steal all the glory and permanently suppress Junshan? If that really happened, wouldn't the people from Junshan have to look up to us from then on?"

Seeing his expression had turned icy, Deng Che didn't dare continue. Hesitantly, he added, "Actually, I've been thinking for a long time - Zhong Xiong's intentions have always been hard to figure out. Now Master Mo and the others have been searching for so long without finding the companion Zhan Zhao mentioned. Could it be that Zhong Xiong is deliberately being mysterious, and this Zhan actually has no companion at all?"

Shao Jizu gently shook his head, "Chief Zhong guessed correctly actually. The whistling arrows from Junshan indeed indicated there were two people - meaning when these Iron Blood Guards died, there was another person with Zhan Zhao. Since these people died this morning, then this person was at least with Zhan Zhao this morning."

Deng Che blurted out, "Maybe this person wasn't his companion, but his enemy."

Shao Jizu laughed, "I said you don't use your brain when thinking, and indeed you don't, wasting your nickname 'Divine Hand Thief'. Look carefully at the sword wounds on these people - they were all made by the same sword. But this sword isn't Zhan Zhao's 'Zhanlu' sword. That means someone else killed these people. These Iron Blood Guards came to capture Zhan Zhao, and the whistling arrows clearly indicated they discovered his whereabouts. Since they died here, the person who killed them must have done it for Zhan Zhao. Since they killed for him, they're most likely his companion."

His expression turned perplexed as he continued, "Chief Zhong guessed correctly too. Since Zhan Zhao doesn't have the Alliance Token on him, then the token must be with this person. It's just that they guessed wrong about one person."

Deng Che asked, "Who did they guess wrong about?"

Shao Jizu said word by word, "They guessed wrong about Zhan Zhao."Deng Che rubbed his head, already somewhat confused, and only after a long pause said, "Guessed wrong about him? I don't understand what Commander Shao means by that?"

Shao Jizu said, "When they captured Zhan Zhao, they searched his person but didn't find the Alliance Token. It's obvious that either Zhan Zhao hid the Alliance Token in some secret place, or he gave it to his companion. Given the seriousness of the matter, Zhan Zhao would definitely not hide the token elsewhere—he must have intended to rush to the capital and deliver it to the Emperor. So it's more likely that the Alliance Token is with his companion."

As he spoke, he let out a faint sigh, his tone growing more complex.

"When they saw Zhan Zhao, he was already severely injured, so they naturally assumed that if Zhan Zhao was drawing them to West Bridge Crossing, his companion must have taken another route to Kaifeng."

Deng Che thought it over carefully and couldn't help slapping his thigh, saying, "Exactly! Last night, Master Mo and Yan Ziqing clearly had already discovered Zhan Zhao and Cold Water Palace's trail and were about to catch up at the Five Stone Ridge temple, but Commander Shao anticipated the enemy's move and forcibly redirected them to West Bridge Crossing to wait in ambush."

He looked at Shao Jizu, his eyes filled with admiration, and added, "Since they've been waiting at West Bridge Crossing since last night, and this person was still with Zhan Zhao this morning, then even if this person were to cross West Bridge Crossing, Master Mo and the others would definitely know about it! And if they knew, they would surely intercept him. From this, it's clear that Zhan Zhao's companion must have taken another route to Kaifeng."

Shao Jizu, however, gently shook his head again and said, "That's only one possibility."

Deng Che looked utterly bewildered and asked in surprise, "Commander, could there be another possibility?"

Shao Jizu said, "Yes. After capturing Zhan Zhao, Master Mo and Village Chief Zhong blocked all possible routes to Kaifeng and conducted thorough searches, but found nothing. In fact, they overlooked one place."

Deng Che asked, "What place?"

Shao Jizu slowly replied, "West Bridge Crossing."

Deng Che could hardly believe his ears. He widened his eyes in astonishment and instinctively repeated, "West Bridge Crossing?"

Shao Jizu said, "Yes, the other possibility is that this companion didn't arrive at West Bridge Crossing before Zhan Zhao, but after him."

Deng Che muttered, "After him? How is that possible? That doesn't make sense."

Shao Jizu sighed softly and said, "That's precisely Zhan Zhao's brilliance. Whether he could cross West Bridge Crossing or not, he would create a misconception for Zhong Xiong and the others. He wanted them to think that since he was taking West Bridge Crossing, his companion, who bore the important task, would definitely not take West Bridge Crossing but would rush ahead elsewhere to meet up with him."

He continued, "Zhong Xiong's reasoning was logical, but he didn't realize that Zhan Zhao's companion was already injured. Since he was still traveling with Zhan Zhao this morning, he couldn't have gone far from him. Zhan Zhao calculated Zhong Xiong's thoughts precisely, which is why, despite knowing the dangers of West Bridge Crossing, he still chose to go there. This man's intelligence and wisdom are truly no less than mine. No wonder even a hero like Village Chief Zhong was defeated by him!"Deng Che said, "But even if we know this person was injured, we don't even know what he looks like. Searching for such a person in the vast sea of humanity is like fishing for a needle in the ocean. Moreover, if he has already crossed the West Bridge crossing, the opposite shore is no longer the prince's direct territory. Our actions would ultimately be inconvenient."

Shao Jizu said indifferently, "Fishing for a needle in the ocean might not be entirely accurate. Zhong Xiong's civil administration and military strategy are first-rate, and his Flying Sky Fork is truly extraordinary. If he were to enter the martial world, he would undoubtedly be a top-tier expert. However, he is ultimately unfamiliar with the ways of the martial world. Many subtle clues that clearly revealed traces of Zhan Zhao's accomplice went unnoticed by him."

Deng Che asked, "Has the commander already grasped the key to this mystery?"

Shao Jizu replied, "The reason I'm certain that Zhan Zhao's accomplice must have crossed the West Bridge crossing only after Zhan Zhao's battle with Master Mo at the crossing is because he was injured - specifically, in his left leg."

His voice, for some reason, had gradually turned bitter: "Although this person was injured, he possesses extraordinary lightness skills."

Deng Che's eyes widened increasingly: "How does Commander Shao know that person was injured in the left leg and possesses supreme lightness skills?"

Shao Jizu explained, "Along our journey here, beside the dead horses, besides Zhan Zhao's footprints, we saw another set of very shallow footprints that subsequently became almost invisible. If Zhan Zhao's companion didn't possess the lightness skill of 'treading on snow without leaving traces,' how could he leave such faint footprints while carrying Zhan Zhao? However, one of these footprints was shallower than the other. His companion's left leg must have been injured."

He paused, then added, "Besides this, this person also holds a miraculous weapon in his hand."

Deng Che was completely baffled, unable to understand how Shao Jizu had deduced all this: "What kind of weapon does this person have in his hand?"

Shao Jizu shook his head, "I can't identify what kind of sword it is either. I only know that the sword wounds on the Junshan Iron Blood Guards in the gorge, though fatal, show no signs of any blood flow. It's as if the blood where the sword edge struck had been completely drained. The weapon in the killer's hand must possess some evil magic. The wounds left by Zhan Zhao's Zhanlu sword could never be like this."

Deng Che had racked his brains, murmuring to himself, "Supreme lightness skills, a miraculous weapon - who could this person possibly be?"

But Shao Jizu's expression suddenly changed.

He raised his head and walked out into the rain, letting the fine, densely falling pearl-like raindrops soak through his clothes.

—Had he perhaps recognized what kind of weapon this was?

His gaze was fixed on the distance. Through the misty rain curtain, he seemed to have seen someone.

—Had he perhaps figured out who this other person really was?

Deng Che watched his lonely yet robust back, his body trembling slightly. A sense of ominous foreboding instantly spread throughout his body, making him shiver involuntarily, unable to speak another word.

A long silence ensued.

In the silence, only the heavily suppressed but still rough breathing of the imperial guards behind them could be heard.This time, it was Shao Jizu who broke the silence.

Without turning his head, he suddenly asked slowly, "Did Master Mo's carrier pigeon message mention where Zhan Zhao is now?"

Deng Che replied softly, "Master Mo's letter said that part of the Jinshi Hall and Junshan's Iron Blood Guards, under the prince's urgent order, have been changing horses but not men since West Bridge Crossing. They are most likely escorting him to Xiangyang by now."

Shao Jizu's voice carried a trace of melancholy. The misty rain seemed insufficient to wash away the long-suppressed anger in his chest.

"After all, we missed him. Even someone as arrogant as Zhong Xiong praised him endlessly. Judging by his actions these past few days, he possesses extraordinary intelligence. If he hadn't already fought with the Cold Water Palace members, the trap set at West Bridge Crossing wouldn't have captured him so easily. All things considered, he might be the best opponent I've encountered in my life. It's a pity that I missed meeting him twice, and now there will never be another chance to cross swords with him."

Deng Che said, "No wonder Commander Shao is disappointed. At this point, it's still uncertain whether he will even regain consciousness. However, this subordinate knows that even if he were completely unharmed, he would still be no match for the Commander in a fight."

Shao Jizu asked, "Oh? What makes you say that?"

Deng Che replied, "Because Commander Shao already understands Zhan Zhao's weakness clearly. This man has too many scruples—"

He didn't finish his sentence. Because he didn't need to. The person opposite him already understood.

Shao Jizu still didn't turn his head, but laughed and said, "I never realized you could be so perceptive despite your rough exterior."

For some reason, his laughter sounded dry and hollow.

Deng Che also laughed twice, then added, "But what this subordinate doesn't understand is the prince's intention. Even if Zhan Zhao survives now, he'll likely lose all his martial arts and become a useless cripple. How could the prince still hold him in such high regard?"

Shao Jizu said indifferently, "The reasons behind this are probably not for outsiders to know. Perhaps the prince has other arrangements."

Deng Che suddenly chuckled darkly, "Could it be that the prince is keeping him alive to interrogate him about the Alliance Token's whereabouts? It's strange though—Zhan Zhao was granted the title 'Imperial Cat' by the emperor. Does he truly have nine lives? He's been continuously injured and used the Soaring Crane technique. Anyone else would have collapsed long ago, yet he managed to keep fighting and hold on for so long."

Shao Jizu's chest already ached as he murmured, "If not for Exquisite Mountain Villa's Exquisite Honey, how could he have such endurance?" But this sentence ultimately remained unfinished.

(Three)

The sky had darkened. The rain had stopped.

The distant green mountains seemed washed emerald green by the fine rain, like jade.

The setting sun after the gloomy rain hid its brilliance behind the clouds, making the earth appear even darker.

Even the light whinnies and snorts from the post horses in the stable beside the relay station seemed tinged with the moisture of rain.

A pair of butterflies drifted slowly from the edge of the stable, fluttering along the empty post road. Their fragile wings had been dyed blood-red by the setting sun.

Huo Xiao Di sat by the window, indescribably weary.

—But how could this physical exhaustion compare to the pain and bitterness in his heart?The food and wine on the table had gradually turned cold, as cold as his heart felt now.

Throughout this journey, how many times had he felt an uncontrollable impulse to turn around, to look back, to chase after Zhong Xiong's trail and fight him with his sword? Yet, the yellow silk ribbon on his chest had repeatedly stopped him, making him hesitate again and again.

It was already too heavy a burden to bear.

It was his trust, his life, his bloodshed, his final wish.

Whenever he recalled the anxious look in his eyes back in the granary, Huo Xiao Di's heart ached as if cut by a knife.

Beside the roadside post station, a small tea garden had been built, originally intended for weary travelers and exhausted wanderers to rest and refresh themselves. However, under the gloomy sky, there were few passersby.

At this moment, in the courtyard, apart from an elderly station attendant and a helper, there were only two people.

Huo Xiao Di chose a seat by the window. In the opposite corner, by a table, sat a young woman dressed in light purple, her back to the door, wearing a delicate veil over her head, making it even harder to see her face.

When Huo Xiao Di stepped inside, he only caught a glimpse of her back.

But her back alone was enough.

Her back was beautiful.

She sat there quietly and elegantly, occasionally turning her head slightly to glance at the road outside the door, as if waiting for someone.

Even though Huo Xiao Di's heart was in turmoil, he still noticed her. Even though he couldn't see her face, he still noticed her.

The young woman's back was indescribably graceful.

Who was this purple-clad maiden waiting for?

The answer came quickly.

A series of hurried footsteps approached from outside the door. Following the attendant's greeting, a figure flashed at the entrance—a boy carrying a bundle on his back rushed in and headed straight to the table where the purple-clad maiden sat.

The boy had a large head and appeared to be around thirteen or fourteen years old. His eyes sparkled with intelligence and vitality, clearly marking him as a clever and lively character. His childish face, likely flushed from a long journey, was tinged with a faint redness, but his large, mischievous eyes were brimming with barely contained excitement and cunning, like a child who had just received a beloved toy.

As soon as he saw the young woman sitting with her back to Huo Xiao Di, he cautiously whispered, "Sister, sorry to keep you waiting."

Behind Huo Xiao Di, a gentle and melodrous voice spoke up, "Zhu'er, have you been fooling around again?"

Huo Xiao Di's heart stirred—the voice was indescribably elegant and pleasant! He couldn't help but turn his head to look.

His eyes instantly brightened.

The young woman at the table had turned her head, gazing at the boy who had just entered.

The veil covering her head had been lifted.

For a moment, as the veil was raised, the dim post station seemed to brighten.

She was an extraordinarily beautiful girl, only fifteen or sixteen years old, with captivating eyes and cherry-red lips that seemed to sing. Though her light purple attire was simple, it accentuated her ethereal and graceful elegance. Yet, in the occasional turn of her lovely eyes, a trace of youthful innocence remained.

Such a delicate and refined girl—under normal circumstances, Huo Xiao Di would have gazed at her a few more times. But now, with his mind in disarray, he could only inwardly marvel and let his gaze sweep over her briefly.The boy, however, looked Huo Xiao Di up and down, grinned mischievously, and whispered to his sister, "Sis, didn't you notice that handsome young man across the way sneaking glances at you?"

His voice was very soft, but Huo Xiao Di, possessing the inner strength of "A Night's Flower Language in the Small Tower," still heard it. His eyebrow twitched involuntarily. Then, the subsequent conversation between the boy and his sister, spoken in extremely hushed tones, flowed clearly into his ears without missing a single word.

He heard the boy say cheerfully, "Sister, how am I causing trouble again? You've been watching me so closely this whole journey—even if I wanted to make trouble, I wouldn't dare."

The young woman replied, "You were gone for most of the day and only just returned. If you weren't off making trouble, what were you doing? In my opinion, while you claimed you went back to the inn to retrieve the forgotten bundle, I suspect bothering that bald innkeeper was your real purpose."

Her voice was clear, gentle, and warm, and even though it was filled with displeasure, it remained incredibly pleasant to the ear.

The boy seemed to be suppressing pride and laughter as he said with feigned seriousness, "That bald innkeeper in Sancai Town hasn't offended me—why would I go looking for trouble with him? Besides, before we left, what did Uncle Zhong say? 'It's best to avoid stirring up trouble along the way.' I've kept that firmly in mind."

The young woman retorted, "How dare you bring up Uncle Zhong's words. Since you mentioned him, what did he instruct you before we left the capital? Wasn't it 'Try to avoid causing trouble and reach Xiangyang early to meet the Third Young Master'? If you weren't stirring up trouble just now, how could fetching a bundle take so long? Your lies might fool others, but they won't fool your sister."

Hearing this, Huo Xiao Di was taken aback.

—Could it be that this brother and sister were traveling from the capital to Xiangyang?

The boy said, "Sister, I really have Uncle Zhong's words firmly in mind, but you saw what happened today in Sancai Town. That owner of Hero's Pavilion is just a restaurant proprietor—what right did he have to bully others so harshly? Those two beggars were only asking for a bite to eat at his door. If he didn't want to give it, fine, but why fly into a rage for no reason, beat them half to death, and force them to eat the rice grains that fell on the ground?"

He then muttered, "If the Third Young Master were here, he would have stepped in too!"

The young woman said, "So you used the excuse of forgetting your bundle at the inn to sneak back and cause trouble for him? Did you intentionally leave that bundle at the Sancai Town inn, waiting until we were far away before using it as a pretext to go back and harm someone?"

Seeing that he could no longer hide it from her, the boy grinned and said, "Since Sister already guessed, why say it out loud? I know you're not really blaming me. Otherwise, earlier today when I told you I'd forgotten the bundle, you wouldn't have let me go back."

This child was sharp and perceptive, having seen right through his sister's thoughts.

The young woman fell silent for a long time before finally sighing softly and saying, "Sometimes I really don't know how I ended up with a little brother like you."The boy grinned cheekily and said, "I know you're anxious to get to Xiangyang, sister. Do you think I don’t want to see Third Young Master sooner? But as you can see, I’ve been quite restrained along the way. If it weren’t for that bald fatso pushing us too far, I would never have stirred up trouble for no reason, delaying your journey and worrying you."

The girl replied, "If you ever gave anyone peace of mind, the sun would truly rise from the west. Out with it, you troublemaking monkey—how did you teach that fellow a lesson this time?"

The boy tucked his hands behind his back, his face brimming with unmistakable pride, though he tried to play it down. "It was nothing, really. After retrieving my bundle from the inn, I just happened to wander into the small kitchen behind that bald fatty’s Hero’s Pavilion and slipped some croton seeds into his lunch."

His voice, deliberately lowered, had turned hoarse and strange, making him uncomfortable and giving Huo Xiao Di, who was nearby, an odd mix of discomfort and amusement. Huo Xiao Di thought to himself, "This kid and that Zhao Zhi’er under Little Zhao’s command are truly a match made in heaven."

Just then, the girl sighed again and said, "And you call that not harming anyone? What if you went too far and hurt him? Wouldn’t that just cause more trouble for Third Young Master?"

The boy dismissed her concern. "With all that fat on him, a dose of croton seeds will just help clear his bowels. He won’t die. Since he’s never known what it’s like to go hungry, I figured I’d let his food and drink pass right through him—nothing staying in his belly."

The girl pressed, "Knowing your nature, I doubt you let him off that easily, did you?"

Though Huo Xiao Di sat with his back to the siblings in a far corner by the window, his attention and curiosity had been piqued.

—Could this boy have an even cleverer trick up his sleeve than secretly dosing someone with croton seeds?

—And if so, how did the girl know about it?

Now it was the boy’s turn to sigh. He couldn’t hide his smugness. "Where did you get that idea, sister? Just adding croton seeds already earned me a scolding—how could I dare pile on more mischief?"

The girl gave a soft "hmph" and said, "We’ve grown up together—do you think I don’t know you? You didn’t bring much silver when we set out. Would you really spend your own money on croton seeds? Since when do you take a loss in your schemes? There’s more to this, isn’t there?"

The boy couldn’t help but chuckle. "You’re just too clever, sister. I can’t hide anything from you. The truth is, the moment I saw that bald fatso bullying others, I couldn’t stand him. So after visiting his kitchen, I teamed up with someone else to put on a little show for him. I sold him the 'Bone-Rotting Muscle-Melting Ointment' I tricked from Fourth Uncle last year, pretending it was 'Hundred-Spirits Hair-Growth Powder.' All in all, after taking money from that fatso, I had enough to help out two beggars, pay the medicine shop, and still have some left over."Huo Xiao Di couldn't help but smile at this point. This child appeared young but was remarkably shrewd, having somehow developed quite the knack for playing tricks that left others feeling wronged yet unable to voice their grievances.

The young lady sighed softly and said, "Bringing you along this time might truly have been a mistake."

The boy grinned and replied, "Uncle Zhong was worried about Third Young Master being in Xiangyang with too few attendants. I volunteered—it was only right. How could it be wrong? And how could I let my sister travel all the way to Xiangyang alone? Having me by your side for companionship and protection is only natural."

As he spoke, he puffed out his small chest slightly, as if to display his robustness.

The young lady murmured wistfully, "Back during the great Yellow River flood, we faced dangers far more perilous than this. We endured countless hardships. Now that the world is at peace, the troubles along this journey pale in comparison to those days."

Mention of the Yellow River flood seemed to darken the boy's mood as well. He blinked and changed the subject: "It's just that I wonder what kind of place Xiangyang is—surely it can't be as convenient as the Eastern Capital. My sister alone might struggle to manage everything. With me helping you attend to Third Young Master, things would surely be much easier."

The young lady said, "You helping me? I'd be grateful if you just avoid getting into trouble—that would be blessing enough. Even back in the capital, you were constantly stirring up trouble and causing incidents without end. If not for Third Young Master's influence, do you think you'd still be alive today?"

The boy grinned cheekily and said, "Sister, your words are so heavy—I'm just a child with narrow shoulders. I'm afraid they might crush me. I truly can't bear such weight."

The young lady replied, "You're clever enough to outsmart the heavens—what couldn't you bear? I doubt anyone exists who could speak words heavy enough to crush you. Every day when Third Young Master returns to the residence, his first question is always to ask where you are."

Her tone grew solemn as she continued, "Zhu'er, we owe Third Young Master a lifetime of gratitude for saving and taking us in. Why do you always make him worry about you?"

The boy's expression gradually turned serious, and he lowered his head. "Sister, you—"

The young lady said, "I know you're clever, and there are those in the capital who spoil you rotten, but we are still servants after all. Although Third Young Master has never treated us as subordinates, even if we can't assist him, we mustn't cause him more trouble."

The boy mumbled, "Sister, you're right. I know I've been wrong, but this temper of mine—I just can't seem to change it. Whenever I see people bullying the poor, I can't help but—"

The young lady said, "I know you admire Third Young Master's heroic spirit and want to emulate his chivalry. You're still young, and your fiery temper is natural. But with everything you do, you must consider how it affects Third Young Master. Xiangyang is not the capital. If you don't restrain yourself and end up causing trouble for him again, I will be the first to hold you accountable."

Though her voice remained gentle, there was now a trace of sternness in her tone.

Hearing this, Huo Xiao Di felt another stir in his heart.Although this sister and brother pair possessed no martial arts skills whatsoever, their speech and demeanor were extraordinary. The child was undoubtedly precocious, eccentric and clever, while the young woman—despite her gentle and delicate appearance—had an exceptionally sharp mind. The boy's ingenious tricks couldn't escape her notice, and she possessed another remarkable ability: with just a few words, she could make that peculiar and stubborn child obediently comply.

Had it not been for hearing the young woman's words, he would never have guessed that this sister and brother could be someone else's servants.

If even the servants were like this, then what kind of formidable figure must their master be?

As his thoughts wandered, a sudden realization struck him.

In the capital city of Dongjing, aside from Little Zhao of the Southern Pure Palace, probably only he would be worthy of such attendants.

But the moment that handsome face appeared in his mind—that serene smile, those penetrating deep eyes, that calm figure—a warmth spread through his body, yet his heart was pierced with agony. So agonizing he could barely breathe.

Looking at the food before him, his appetite suddenly vanished.

But he had to force himself to eat. Only by eating would he have the strength to continue his journey. He must reach the capital.

Yet for some reason, his throat felt blocked, as if something were stuck there. Even if rare delicacies were laid before him, he could hardly swallow.

Staring at the meal, he drifted into a daze again. The soft murmuring of the sister and brother sitting far away seemed to fade into the clouds, beyond the horizon, growing indistinct and hazy.

He didn't know how much time had passed amid his scattered thoughts when he suddenly noticed the surroundings darkening. A shadow slowly crept in from outside the door.

A horse whinnied softly beyond the entrance.

The world had fallen silent. Even the whispers from the siblings in the corner seemed to have ceased.

Huo Xiao Di abruptly became alert.

In that moment of alertness, the wind felt clear and the clouds seemed to lift.

There was someone in the shadows.

A figure in darkness would normally appear blurred, but this person's silhouette stood out even more distinctly against the gloom.

Slowly, the figure finally stepped out of the shadows.

Just as this person emerged, the setting sun broke through the clouds, briefly brightening the land and casting a gleam into the small inn.

The horse outside neighed again.

In the distance beyond the window, pine trees rustled in the wind.

The person was now standing before Huo Xiao Di.

A black cloak draped over his robust and resilient frame. Lifting his gaze, one saw sword-like eyebrows, star-bright eyes, an aura of soaring pride, and a will as unyielding as steel.

This cloaked youth stood before Huo Xiao Di with a composed yet intensely imposing presence.

Who was this?

In his daze, Huo Xiao Di thought he must be mistaken.

He couldn't believe it. He must have misidentified the person.

He blinked hard.

Then his eyes met a familiar gaze—one containing contradictions he knew all too well.

This was a gaze completely different from Zhan Zhao's.

Zhan Zhao's gaze was deep and tranquil, possessing both penetrating sharpness and understanding warmth.

This person's gaze, however, always held the contradiction of deep affection and cool detachment, like the burning of ice and fire.

Huo Xiao Di stood under that gaze.

It was him!Their gazes, laden with complex emotions, had already met, clashed, merged, pierced through, and penetrated, as if each sought to see into the other's heart.

Huo Xiao Di seemed unable to stand, nor did he wish to.

His lips trembled faintly, making his Rabbit Teeth appear to glimmer softly in the sunset.

In an instant, he knew that what must be faced would ultimately have to be confronted. Just like his responsibilities and emotions, no matter what happened, they were burdens he could not escape.

Unconsciously, his vision suddenly blurred. Could it be that tears had made his heart unwilling to see him any longer?

Did he already know that this tangled, overflowing heart would ache more, grow more troubled, and sink deeper into sorrow upon seeing the person before him?

—Yet amid this pain and sorrow, why was there also an inexplicable sense of relief?

He heard the person before him let out a soft, long sigh. Then his voice sounded.

It was a voice Huo Xiao Di recognized—deep and slightly hoarse. But now, it carried a joy of reunion, so unmistakable and unrestrained, that felt strangely unfamiliar to Huo Xiao Di.

His gaze, like ice and fire, fixed on him. His lips seemed to tremble slightly as well. To Huo Xiao Di, his voice now seemed distant.

—"Ling Long, hello."

With a soft "thud," the pair of bamboo chopsticks slipped from Huo Xiao Di's hand and fell to the ground, making a dull sound.

A glistening tear finally rolled from the corner of his eye, landing with a faint patter on his lapel.

[Note] "Magnolia Flower Slow" has always been a harmonious and melodious tune, used to express tender, lingering emotions. Here, it bears no actual relation to magnolia flowers but is borrowed as a metaphor for the story of Hua Mulan, alluding to Huo Ling Long's cross-dressing as a man in this context.

(4)

The siblings sitting far away in the corner, upon first seeing this person, thought he resembled a robust leopard emerging from distant mountains—sharp and imposing, yet with a peculiar calm and intensity. Watching him, the purple-clad young woman's exquisite brows furrowed slightly.

Yet this person seemed unaware of the siblings' presence. His gaze was fixed on Huo Xiao Di.

—He looked at him, his eyes brimming with irrepressible affection, like suppressed fire and melting ice.

He spoke quietly, "Ling Long, I've finally found you."

As he spoke, he took a slow step forward, as if intending to grasp his hand.

Huo Xiao Di's tear-streaked face wore a bitter smile, a mocking smile.

In that soft sigh lay an indescribable desolation.

—Was he mocking fate's arrangements, which always seemed to hold a special favor for him? No matter how he hid, evaded, hesitated, or resisted, he was always forced in the end to drink the bitter wine fate poured for him.

Upon seeing him, he had nothing left to say.

He stood up, took a step back. Then he raised his hand, removed his hairpin, and his long hair cascaded down like flowing water.

As his hair spilled loose, it radiated an endless brilliance from his form.

At this moment, no one could believe that the one wearing the yellow jacket was still a willful young man.The siblings, witnessing one unexpected turn after another, widened their eyes in astonishment, rendered speechless: the solitary yellow-robed youth who had been sitting silently by the window all along was actually a woman.

Her black hair flowed loosely like drifting petals. In the fleeting moment, her figure softened, blurred, and then vanished.

——What a move, "A Startling Glance"!

The young man in the black cloak paled, exclaiming without thinking, "Linglong, don't go!"

As the wind rose and clouds shifted, his figure, too, disappeared beyond the door in an instant.

The siblings sitting in the corner remained seated for a long time.

The boy couldn't help but ask, "Sis, did you see how that young master turned into a beautiful lady in the blink of an eye? But why did she start crying the moment she saw that person? And that guy in the black cloak—one moment he made me feel hot, the next cold. There must be something strange going on."

The elegant young girl replied, "Are you thinking of going to see the excitement again? Did you even listen to what I just told you?"

The boy lowered his head and said, "Even if Zhu'er wanted to go, Sister wouldn't allow it. Zhu'er has long known this."

Even if she hadn't spoken, he had already anticipated this answer.

—But this time, her answer surprised him. The enchanting voice of the purple-clad maiden already rang in his ears: "You're wrong. This time, even I want to know the secret within."

The boy raised his head, looking at his sister, hardly believing his ears.

In the purple-clad maiden's eyes, there was already deep contemplation.

(V)

In the wilderness under the setting sun, a yellow-robed figure was running.

Finally, the yellow figure came to a halt. In the blood-red sunset, what was dyed crimson were her dark, captivating eyes, her slightly gleaming snow-white rabbit teeth, her delicate lips, and her long, silky hair flowing in the wind.

Only, Huo Xiao Di no longer existed; in her place was Huo Ling Long, the eldest daughter of Exquisite Mountain Villa.

Her heart was in turmoil. Chaotic as a three-part flowing stream, seemingly one part hesitation, one part palpitation, one part lingering.

She stopped.

She clearly knew that once she slowed down, she would be caught up, yet she still stopped.

—Was it this person who made her both want to see him and fear seeing him?

Finally, a soft sigh came from behind her.

After the sigh came a leisurely voice: "Ling Long, why are you leaving?"

The person behind her ultimately swallowed the next sentence: Since you're leaving, why did you stop?

—If she were to leave, how could he ever catch up!

In the blood-red afterglow following the rain, Huo Ling Long's warm, dove-wing-like long eyelashes trembled slightly, as if veiled in a faint red mist. She turned around.

—What must be faced will eventually be faced.

When she turned to face this person, her expression had already calmed.

Her slender eyebrows arched as she coldly said, "And who are you?"

The initial joy in this person's eyes had turned to astonishment: "Ling Long, what's wrong? Why would you ask such a thing? I am Shao Jizu."

Huo Ling Long sneered, "Oh? Aren't you Commander Shao of Xiangyang Royal Mansion? How could you be Shao Jizu? The Shao Jizu I knew is dead. What does Commander Shao of Xiangyang Royal Mansion have to do with a common woman like me?"

Shao Jizu said in surprise, "Ling Long, you're speaking in anger again. Am I not perfectly fine right here before you?"

Huo Ling Long raised her head, sneering, "I understand Lord Shao's intentions even less. Wasn't the Shao Jizu I knew killed by you?"

Shao Jizu was left speechless.

Huo Ling Long continued, "The Little Shao I knew was originally a heroic, upright, and spirited figure—wasn't he killed by you, Commander Shao? Wasn't he killed by the ambition for fame and fortune of your Xiangyang Royal Mansion? Not only did you kill him, but you also devoured his conscience, isn't that right?"

Though her voice was clear, to Shao Jizu, it seemed to have become indescribably grating."How could you possibly be the Shao Jizu I once knew? Serving by the prince's side, you excel at bullying commoners—quite impressive indeed. Ordering Jinshi Hall's subordinates to kill at West Bridge Ferry was effortless for you. Assisting tyranny within Xiangyang Royal Mansion, brandishing your sword to intimidate others—wasn't that equally dashing? And what's more, you even flaunted the prince's authority to obtain an imperial marriage decree, pressuring me at Exquisite Mountain Villa—utterly triumphant! How could you be the Shao Jizu I've always known?"

Shao Jizu's bitter smile had frozen on his handsome face. His gaze, a blend of ice and fire, lingered on her face so intensely that she instinctively averted her eyes. He spoke slowly, "Ling Long, we've known each other since childhood. I've cherished and adored you since we were young, and now we're betrothed. Why must you speak such angry words?"

Huo Ling Long retorted, "How strange. How could the one who played with me since childhood be you? How could the one I'm betrothed to be you? Commander Shao must have mistaken me for someone else. If you've known me since childhood, if we're engaged, why did you stop me when I went to Xiangyang Royal Mansion? Why did you draw your sword and threaten me so fiercely? I cannot comprehend your words, Lord Shao."

Shao Jizu said gently, "Ling Long, I was indeed at fault that night you barged into Xiangyang Royal Mansion. But if you're angry with me, direct it at me. Why trouble the Prince of Xiangyang?"

In the setting sun, he clearly saw the mocking smile on Huo Ling Long's face. That smile, tinged crimson by the sunset, made it impossible to discern how much sorrow, helplessness, or ruthlessness lay within. This smile pierced his heart like a blade.

Huo Ling Long laughed, "Is his Xiangyang Royal Mansion greater than Southern Pure Palace? Can I not cause trouble for him? Who asked him to meddle and request the imperial marriage decree? Because of this, my father forces me to marry you! Why shouldn't I see what kind of three-headed, six-armed deity he is, with such boundless power to interfere in Huo Ling Long's affairs? Why shouldn't I see what manner of immortal he is, that even the Little Shao I once knew, upon entering his Xiangyang Royal Mansion, recognizes only wealth and glory, forgetting his own conscience?"

Shao Jizu said, "Ling Long, how can you be so disrespectful to the prince? The prince's recognition and favor toward me—even if I were crushed to pieces, I could never repay it in this lifetime."

Huo Ling Long nodded, "In your view, gratitude for recognition outweighs justice and rightness. No wonder, no wonder. I originally said that if I offended him, what concern was it of yours? Commander Shao was never part of Exquisite Mountain Villa. Even if the prince sent someone to kill me, it would be Exquisite Mountain Villa's own affair. Why must you personally lead the pursuit?"

Shao Jizu said, "Ling Long, I hope you can understand my earnest intentions. That day at Xiangyang Royal Mansion, I indeed should not have acted so harshly. But if I hadn't intervened, your offense against the prince would have been far greater. This time, I came out personally hoping to find you and explain."He let out a long sigh and continued, "I know you're angry with me, and ultimately, it's because I sought the Emperor's marriage decree from the prince without consulting you first. But it's truly unfair for you to direct your resentment toward the prince because of this."

Despite using all his strength to control himself, his voice still sounded hoarse and suppressed. Had his usual composure and icy demeanor been completely burned away by fiery passion?

—This was his longing, his concern, his soul-stirring dreams. Why, when facing the one he loved, did this brilliant and renowned top expert of Xiangyang Royal Mansion become just like any ordinary man?

Huo Ling Long's heart had unknowingly softened, yet she stubbornly maintained her tough tone: "I simply can't stand people who bully others by flaunting their power, using official authority to pressure us at Exquisite Mountain Villa. I've been minding my own business at Exquisite Mountain Villa—who have I offended? He's just a prince after all. Does that mean only he can provoke me, but I can't provoke him?"

She looked at Shao Jizu and added, "As for you—how dare you speak so lightly and calmly before me! Don't you think using such methods is going too far? Little Tang may be arrogant, but even he isn't as unscrupulous as you!"

These words pierced him like sharp swords, stinging his skin and penetrating his heart. Shao Jizu cried out "Ling Long!"—the indescribable bitterness and pain in his voice actually made Huo Ling Long unable to continue speaking.

In the silence, Shao Jizu gritted his teeth, the veins on his forehead already throbbing.

He took a deep breath and finally said slowly, "Ling Long, could it be that even now, you still don't know my feelings for you?"

—Under the setting sun, on the vast wilderness, amidst the silent weeping of the long wind, he had finally said it. Though speaking these words had been so difficult for him.

Huo Ling Long's body trembled involuntarily! Her face instantly turned indescribably pale.

—Under the setting sun, on the vast wilderness, amidst the silent weeping of the long wind, she had still heard it. Though hearing these words had been so unbelievable for her.

She bit her lip, her eyes fixed on the ground before her. After a long while, she finally whispered, "When have you ever told me about these feelings of yours? If you never speak of them, should I just automatically understand? How could I know whether you want me, or are just eyeing the Huo family's dowry?"

Shao Jizu's expression had turned solemn. Under the slanting sunlight, the beauty stood like jade. Yet why had he and she become like strangers? The tenderness of the past, the innocence of yesterday, their former affection—all seemed to have vanished with the wind. His eyes were filled with helpless bitterness: "In the end, you still don't trust me."

This helplessness seemed like fallen blossoms carried away by flowing water, the heartless tone momentarily stinging Huo Ling Long into silent submission.

—Had she tacitly admitted it?

But Shao Jizu looked at her and said, "Ling Long, you're clever—I don't believe you don't know my feelings. You're just stubborn with your words, but deep down you must have understood long ago. I, Shao Jizu, am a man who stands firm between heaven and earth. Your Huo family's Exquisite Eyes have never been something I cared about."His gaze had become as sharp as a blade's edge, his voice as weighty as solid rock. It seemed this was his dignity, his pride—he would never allow them to be challenged.

Upon hearing his words, Huo Linglong suddenly raised her head fearlessly, her eyes meeting his. Under the setting sun, their gazes clashed like lightning, and for a moment, it was as if one could hear the metallic clang of swords—a sound as crimson as the dying sunlight.

She had already begun to laugh. Her rabbit teeth sparkled charmingly: "How strange! Your tone is exactly the same as Little Tang's. Who in the martial world doesn't know that our Huo family's Exquisite Eyes, once opened, can glimpse the future? Aside from Little Zhao, who wouldn't dream of possessing them? Even if you don't want them, wouldn't your master desire them?"

Shao Jizu's face showed no expression. But sometimes, isn't the absence of expression itself a form of expression?

He said dryly, "Linglong, why would you suspect His Highness?"

Huo Linglong curled her lips: "Do you think just because you stopped me, I saw nothing that night at Xiangyang Royal Mansion? In such a grand mansion, among all the things that could be built, why specifically construct Chongxiao Tower? What kind of secrets are sneakily hidden inside? Can you honestly claim complete ignorance? How can you expect me to believe your words anymore?"

Shao Jizu was rendered speechless.

—He had still underestimated her. This exquisite young woman was no longer the naive, thoughtless girl he remembered in his heart. Over these past few days, she seemed to have learned much.

Was this because the eldest daughter of Exquisite Mountain Villa was inherently gifted and extraordinary, or because someone had unconsciously changed her during these days?—The Huo Linglong before him suddenly felt like a stranger.

A long silence ensued. Two people, each with their own thoughts, neither knowing what to say.

Then Huo Linglong heard his soft sigh: "So in your heart, no matter what I say, it's useless. It seems only his words can reach you."

—Why did his voice carry an indescribable weariness and melancholy?

Huo Linglong trembled, her face instantly drained of color. She bit her lip tightly: "What did you say?"

Shao Jizu looked at her, his calm gaze unable to conceal his loneliness and pain. An inexplicable mix of ice and fire seemed to burn in his veins: "Why ask when you already know? Don't think I'm unaware. Rushing to the capital like this—if not to find him at Southern Pure Palace, then who else would you be seeking?"

Huo Linglong's face flushed bright red, and she exclaimed loudly: "Little Zhao and I are completely innocent—don't make insinuations. Moreover, even if I were going to find him, what business is it of yours?"

Shao Jizu's gaze turned icy, so cold it bordered on cruel, yet within that cruelty burned a heat intense enough to consume everything: "Don't forget, you are my formally betrothed wife, soon to be properly wedded. Even setting that aside, you know full well the bond we've shared since childhood. If you go to Kaifeng to find him, how could it not be my concern?"The flicker in his eyes now held cruelty, deep affection, regret, and desolation. His gaze fixed firmly on her: "I know, and Little Tang knows too. Yet we've kept silent all this time. Not because he's Young Prince Zhao, but because we understand your willful nature—fearing you'd be humiliated and heartbroken, and mindful of the reputation of Exquisite Mountain Villa and your status as the eldest daughter of the Huo family. If not for my affection for you, why would I have concealed the truth when your brother Huo Feng came to Xiangyang Royal Mansion days ago searching for you?"

His gaze shifted from Huo Linglong to the distant mountains, crimsoned by the setting sun yet gradually devoured by gathering clouds. His words, however, struck her heart one syllable at a time: "Haven't you always disliked owing favors? Whether you're willing or not, you owe me this debt."

(6)

Huo Linglong bowed her head.

—Did she too feel she owed him far too much? That she had betrayed his profound affection too deeply?

She dared not look at him.

—Would meeting his gaze make her bear the weight of his expectations?

Her mind was in utter disarray, unable to form coherent words.

"I'll repay everything I owe you!" she murmured softly, whether to justify herself or to ease Shao Jizu's heart, adding: "But you must understand—my going to the capital isn't to seek him out."

Shao Jizu's eyes finally regained their customary frostiness, resilience, and composure: "If you're not seeking him, then you're delivering whatever Zhan Zhao carries to Kaifeng, aren't you?"

No sooner had these lightly spoken words left his lips than Shao Jizu was overwhelmed with regret—

Though uttered softly, to Huo Linglong they struck like a thunderbolt from clear skies, jolting her backward in a stumbling step. Her face turned deathly pale.

All ignorant tenderness, all unawakened infatuations, all lingering fantasies, all deeply cherished hopes—in that single moment, were crushed to dust by these measured words. Like merciless fate forcing open her heart's eyes to witness the world's deception and cruelty.

—"So you came for this after all!"

—"So you haven't changed at all!"

Her eyes brimmed with disappointment and terror. Was she fearing the sinister complexity of human nature, or dreading how all beautiful memories would ultimately shatter beyond recognition?

Yet within the disappointment and fear emerged a thread of relief: between him and her, there remained no lingering attachments, no lingering sentiments.

Shao Jizu's heart turned icy cold. Cold penetrating every inch of his being.

—He should have been more careful.

Urgently he pleaded: "Linglong, listen to me. I only learned you encountered him on your journey when I pursued you here. That man has always used feigned benevolence to win hearts—I feared you'd be deceived by him, fall into his trap."

Huo Linglong repeated his words syllable by syllable: "Deceived by him? Why don't you honestly tell me—exactly who has been deceiving me, you or him?"

Her eyes now overflowed with heartbreak: "I've traveled all the way from West Bridge Crossing—who could still be fooled by such words!"

Shao Jizu fell silent.

Her voice began trembling imperceptibly: "Where is he?"

Shao Jizu asked: "Who do you mean?"Huo Linglong said, "There's no need to deceive me further, nor pretend ignorance. When I passed by West Bridge Ferry, I already inquired. He... he has fallen into your hands."

Shao Jizu struggled to speak, "Linglong, listen to me—"

But Huo Linglong seemed not to hear, enunciating each word clearly, "I'm asking you—what has become of him? What have you done to him?"

Tears seemed to swirl in her eyes.

Under the setting sun, glistening teardrops sparkled.

—For whom was she weeping?

Shao Jizu let out a long sigh, "You've only been with him for a few days, yet you care so deeply. You even gave him your Huo family's Linglong Honey, something martial artists dream of. —I haven't done anything to him. It's just that Jinshi Hall and Junshan's forces are currently escorting him to Xiangyang."

Huo Linglong asked curiously, "How could you tell he had taken Linglong Honey?"

Shao Jizu sighed softly, "I'm afraid it wasn't just one dose. If not for your Huo family's Linglong Honey, with his condition, forcibly using Crane Soars to Heaven at West Bridge Ferry would have killed him on the spot!"

As he spoke, he looked at Huo Linglong with a compassionate expression, showing concern for her, "Linglong, I truly have your best interests at heart. The power of the Prince of Xiangyang is beyond your imagination! Take Zhan Zhao—even as the renowned Southern Hero, possessing peerless martial skills and wisdom, after causing such chaos in Xiangyang Royal Mansion, he has already committed a capital offense in the Prince's eyes. Not to mention he used Crane Soars to Heaven in the battle at West Bridge Ferry. Even with your Huo family's miraculous medicine, it's uncertain whether he can survive these two days of travel. Even if he reaches Xiangyang, the Prince's strict rules will never spare his life. Linglong, that's why I'm being honest with you—what he entrusted to you is nothing but a calamity that invites disaster. Don't compound your mistakes by opposing the Prince further. Just return that item to me and stay out of Xiangyang Royal Mansion's affairs from now on."

Huo Linglong sneered, "If not for Zhan Zhao's successive battles with Prosperous Cloud Manor and Cold Water Palace along the way, what capability do you have, beyond your dirty tricks, to capture him at West Bridge Ferry? Why should I believe your words? No matter how powerful your master is, aren't his actions harming the common people? Why should I submit to him?!"

Shao Jizu gritted his teeth, "Did the Prince of Xiangyang's affairs come from him? Would you rather trust someone you've known for less than three days than believe me? By trusting him and opposing the Prince, aren't you afraid you'll regret it?"

Huo Linglong lifted her head high, "Even just two or three days are enough. Why should I regret it?"

She looked at him, a trace of contempt already in her eyes, "I trust him, not you, simply because you yourself could never compare to him!"

Shao Jizu felt anger rising. Huo Linglong's words were like an icy sword, abruptly piercing his pride, his dignity, his ambition.He could not understand, he refused to believe! His expression hardened with pride as he declared arrogantly, "I, Shao Jizu, stand firm between heaven and earth. In both literary talent and martial prowess, in what way am I inferior to him? As for official rank, he is merely a fourth-rank imperial bodyguard before the emperor, while I am the commander of the Xiangyang Royal Mansion. Why would you rather believe his words than mine?"

Huo Ling Long's eyes no longer rested on him; his words brushed past her ears like a gentle breeze. After a long while, she slowly replied, "You are mistaken. He is who he is. I trust his words not because of his literary talent or martial prowess, nor because of his official rank. Where he surpasses you lies in his integrity and his chivalrous heart that bears the world's burdens as his own. Though you may be a hero who stands firm between heaven and earth, and though you may be a man of profound affection, you will never compare to him."

A blazing fire seemed to ignite in Shao Jizu's eyes, yet he sneered coldly, "You once praised Little Zhao's virtues endlessly, and I did not mind, for it was only because of his noble status and his compatibility with your temperament. But now you actually speak of Zhan Zhao—"

Huo Linglong murmured softly, "Even Little Zhao can no longer compare to him."

(7)

Shao Jizu suddenly burst into wild laughter. His laughter carried a tinge of desolation and sorrow, making it hard to breathe for a moment.

——"So you went to the capital not for Little Zhao, but for him!"

His face contorted, as even he couldn't believe what was happening before his eyes.

——"So, so, the one you love is no longer Little Zhao from the Southern Pure Palace, but him!"

Huo Linglong was taken aback. Why did thinking of him feel like being cut by a knife?

Shao Jizu's laughter grew increasingly louder. He was laughing at himself.

"What a pity that Tang Tianhao and I were still dreaming in broad daylight, foolishly hoping you would change your mind!"

His laughter became even more bitter, and at some point, it had turned into a bitter smile. Tears streamed from his eyes as he laughed.

But were these tears of a broken heart or a shattered dream? Were they blood flowing from the heart or tear stains after awakening from a dream?

——"That's right, you've finally changed your mind, you no longer love Little Zhao from the Southern Pure Palace. But the one who made you change your mind isn't us—it's him! The one you love is still not us!"

By the end, his voice had grown so hoarse it was barely recognizable. Was this the sound of a heart breaking?

Shao Jizu's words struck Huo Linglong like a bolt of lightning, causing a roar in her mind. Under the setting sun, her heart suddenly became as transparent as a crystal of blood. The wind of the wilderness pierced through this blood-red, trembling heart, plucking the strings of her belated realization.

Her blood had turned cold, yet it boiled once more!

Huo Linglong finally dared to face her own heart.

She declared loudly, "That's right, I used to like Little Zhao, but now it's different. The one I like is him, no longer Little Zhao!"

A barely perceptible anger flickered in Shao Jizu's brow. He said sharply, "Don't you know that you mean nothing to him? From beginning to end, his heart has belonged to another woman!"

Huo Linglong's vision suddenly blurred for no reason, and her nose stung uncontrollably. Yet, she held her head high with pride and said hoarsely, "I don't care. Because I like him, and he doesn't even know it!"

Shao Jizu's cold laughter seemed capable of freezing one to the bone: "You don't care? Or is it that you don't believe it? But whether you believe it or not is up to you."

His expression returned to its original coldness. Watching her suffer, watching her humiliated, watching her tormented—it seemed to give him an indescribable sense of pleasure.

He—wanted—to watch.

——He was afraid he wouldn't see enough!

He continued, knowing she was listening, knowing she wanted to hear: "Even if you no longer believe my words, you are not blind. In the days you've spent with him, haven't you noticed that the sword in Zhan Zhao's hand is not the Juque Sword?"

Huo Linglong murmured, "That's right, no wonder I couldn't recall it was him. It's because I've always heard that Zhan Zhao's sword is a divine weapon called Juque. I recognize the shape of that sword."

Shao Jizu said, "The sword in his hand now is no longer Juque, but Zhanlu. It's because he is engaged to the third young lady of the Ding Family. The token of their engagement is the Zhanlu Sword, treasured by the Ding Family."

Huo Linglong asked, "Which Ding Family?" Even as she spoke, a wave of weakness washed over her heart for no reason.—That "Blood Twin Flight, Crane Soaring Sky"—

Shao Jizu said indifferently, "Which Ding Family could it be? Naturally, the most famous and influential one."

The most famous and influential Ding Family—there was only one.

The Ding Family of Jasmine Flower Manor on Flying Flower Island in Songjiang Prefecture.

Huo Ling Long’s face had already turned pale, and for a moment, her entire body felt cold.

—Could she truly remain indifferent?

Shao Jizu simply watched her. Watching her, his heart grew restless, and he suddenly regretted it again.

—Though he was not skilled with words, he had once been mad for her, intoxicated by her, heartbroken for her, and had long grown accustomed to her brows, her eyes, and her smile. Yet now, those brows and eyes, that face, were haggard for someone else.

Between him and her, there was already the shadow of another person.

He seemed to see Huo Ling Long’s raised head again and the pride in her dark, watery eyes. Faintly, he heard her voice: "You just can’t compare to him!"

A nameless fury instantly burned through him, making his blood feel as if it were boiling. The scorching energy seemed about to burst his head open.

He gritted his teeth, turned, and walked away.

He only wanted to return to Xiangyang, only wanted to see one person!

Huo Ling Long couldn’t help but ask, "You—where are you going?"

Shao Jizu said coldly, "Naturally, back to Xiangyang Royal Mansion."

Huo Ling Long’s lips trembled slightly as she said, "Then—then, how is he?"

Shao Jizu did not turn back. He said lightly, "What could I do to him? I can only destroy him. I will not only ruin his face but everything about him." His words were not exactly gnashing with hatred, and his voice was indescribably calm and low, as if these chilling words had not come from his mouth at all. Only in this last sentence did his voice finally tremble slightly, revealing the turmoil in his heart.

Huo Ling Long exclaimed in shock, "Shao Jizu! I’ve wasted my time knowing you! I thought you were a hero, but now I see you’re nothing but a scoundrel. How can you call yourself a hero when you torment someone who’s severely injured?"

Shao Jizu said viciously, "I am neither the Southern Hero revered by all in the martial world nor the favorite of His Majesty the Emperor. I was never a hero to begin with. But Zhan Zhao forced his way into Chongxiao Tower and took the prince’s treasure. Now that he has fallen into the hands of Xiangyang Royal Mansion, how could I let him go?"

As he spoke, a cold, arrogant smile dripped from his icy, fiery gaze, instantly filling his entire face: "Don’t forget what happened to Bai Yutang when he forced his way into Chongxiao Tower before!"

Huo Ling Long was startled and said, "Are you talking about the White Rat from Xiankong Island? Could it be that he—"

Shao Jizu said, "Naturally, it was the outcome of overestimating himself and throwing an egg against a rock. Over ten days ago, he was pierced all over like a hedgehog by the Rolling Thunder Arrows in Chongxiao Tower. Zhan Zhao later stormed Chongxiao Tower, most likely for Bai Yutang’s sake, to seize the prince’s treasure. That night, if you hadn’t coincidentally arrived at Xiangyang Royal Mansion, forcing me and several others to split up and deal with you, Zhan Zhao might not have escaped the siege of the Copper Net Formation’s experts so easily! Though he managed to escape by luck, he was severely injured. Otherwise, with his lightness skill, who in Xiangyang Royal Mansion could have caught up to him!"

Huo Ling Long’s heart ached as if cut by a knife.It turned out that on the very night she went to Xiangyang Royal Mansion to confront the Prince of Xiangyang and provoke Shao Jizu, Zhan Zhao was also engaged in a fierce battle with the masters of Jinshi Hall while attempting to retrieve the yellow silk brocade—now tucked in his own bosom—from Chongxiao Tower!

Her expression couldn't help but darken as she murmured, "No wonder his complexion looked so dreadful from the moment I first saw him. No wonder the 'Like Old Friends at First Sight' scent on him only appeared six days ago."

—Yet she couldn't understand: since he bore such heavy responsibilities and was injured, why didn't he hurry to the capital instead of successively clashing with members of Prosperous Cloud Manor and Cold Water Palace along the way?

—Could she truly be unaware? Or was she already afraid to dwell on it!

Huo Ling Long lowered her head. Her heart grew even more chaotic—so chaotic it became a blank void, so chaotic her vision swam with dizziness.

—Why did the setting sun over the wilderness glare so harshly?

Her bitten lips had already drawn blood.

She suddenly looked up, for she had reached a decision.

Her voice was calm, but her face had turned pale: "Since you could harm Bai Yutang, naturally you could harm him too. I just want you to know that his falling into your hands isn't your merit—what doomed him was his own chivalrous heart!"

Her voice grew even more resolute as she continued: "Actually, I always knew you would never let him off easily. But I also want you to understand: if you harm him, you harm me. If he dies, I won't live either. The Huo family's Exquisite Eyes of this generation will never be obtained by you or the Prince of Xiangyang!"

A flicker like firelight seemed to pass over Shao Jizu's handsome face, but it was suppressed by the cold indifference familiar to Huo Ling Long.

He slowly began to speak.

He had to speak slowly, had to make sure she heard every word clearly. His tone held a tranquility that was chilling—"How could I bear to kill him? Of course I'll save him. Letting him die like that would be unworthy of you. Now that he's in the Prince of Xiangyang's clutches, I'll make him wish he were dead—make him curse why he was ever born into this world!"

His eyes, both icy and blazing, fixed on her. Cruelty seemed innate, carved into his gaze, his lips, his very expression.

"As for you," he sneered venomously, "how could I bear to harm you? After all, you're soon to be my wife. As your husband, I must be considerate and caring to make you happy. Moreover, even if I intend to harm him, I don't necessarily need to hurt you first—what use would harming you be to him? You're not the one he loves!"

These words struck like a whip. Huo Ling Long shuddered, as if lashed brutally.

—But was this pain physical, or in her heart?

Shao Jizu finally took steps forward again.

His figure against the setting sun resembled a lonely, fallen deity.

The farther he moved from her, the more intense the agony in his heart grew. An uncontrollable madness repeatedly made him want to turn back, yet also compelled him to keep walking forward.

He—hated—so—much!

Suddenly, a clear yet strained voice called from behind: "Wait!"

It was her voice!Shao Jizu seemed to have fallen into a dream from which he would never awaken, his body suddenly stiffening. That single utterance had already rendered him as immobile as a stone statue, unable to take another step.

His eyes seemed to burn with raging flames.

Huo Ling Long's eyes also appeared to blaze with fire, making her face flicker with crimson flames under the setting sun.

She waited for Shao Jizu to turn around before slowly reaching into her bosom and retrieving a piece of yellow silk.

Instantly, Shao Jizu's body began trembling uncontrollably, even his breath catching in his throat!

—Gazing at that piece of yellow silk was like gazing upon his very life. The alternating flashes of ice and fire in his eyes revealed doubt, confusion, yet also excitement.

His expression, however, was indescribably ferocious. After a long pause, he finally managed to utter with difficulty: "So the treasure of Chongxiao Tower is truly in your hands!"

Huo Ling Long said leisurely: "What I hold in my hand may or may not be your lifeline, or that prince of yours. However, beneath this yellow silk in my palm lies a Thunderous Divine Fire Pill. You should know well how this marvelous treasure of the Tang Sect came into my possession."

Shao Jizu's face suddenly turned pale, yet his eyes held both ferocity and fear.

—As if the mere mention of "Thunderous Divine Fire Pill" possessed infinite magic and danger, instantly stealing away his soul.

Huo Ling Long said mockingly: "Don't blame Little Tang. I simply found it amusing and asked him for it to play with. Never thought it would prove useful today!"

Her voice had already taken on a merciless tone: "You know perfectly well that no matter how fast your techniques are, they cannot surpass the Qinggong of the Huo family. Although your swordsmanship surpasses mine, you'd need thirty more years of training to capture me."

Shao Jizu asked: "What do you want?"

Huo Ling Long replied: "You already know very well, why ask me? I only ask you—do you wish to exchange?"

Shao Jizu could barely breathe, unaware that he was asking a foolish question: "Exchange for what?"

—Perhaps he understood her meaning completely, yet preferred to ask for clarification, hoping to buy time to consider both his own and his opponent's cards.

Huo Ling Long stated: "I'll trade what you most desire for the person I want!"

Her voice betrayed no hesitation: "One object for one person."

Shao Jizu hesitated.

Yet his chest grew inexplicably warm. Nestled against his chest within his garments was the specially crafted rocket token for summoning the Jinshi Hall.

For a moment, the token seemed to pulse against his heart.

—Though he couldn't distinguish whether it was the token moving or his own heart trembling.

(8)

At dusk, a light rain began to fall again.

With the creak of oars, a small boat emerged from the rainy mist at the riverside ferry.

Then, through the misty rain, a young woman in yellow appeared by the small ferry, holding a bamboo umbrella.

The moist breeze stirred her long hair—like dreams flying across the sky, like fallen petals drifting with flowing water.

Her dark, captivating eyes, though indescribably bright and beautiful, seemed to hold a trace of faint sorrow.

A faint, indistinct sound of carriage bells came through the rain.Amidst a distant, winding procession of black-clad warriors was a black carriage. However, the carriage's windows were tightly covered with heavy curtains.

Riding beside the carriage on a magnificent chestnut horse was none other than Shao Jizu.

The young woman by the riverside unconsciously tightened her grip on the bamboo umbrella; her heart was already pounding.

—Was it him? Was he inside that carriage?

The warriors halted far away.

Shao Jizu, who had remained silent all along, gently waved his hand. The warriors from Jinshi Hall behind him then lifted a wooden stretcher from the carriage.

There was someone on the stretcher.

The person was now brought close.

Huo Ling Long's heart nearly leaped out of her throat.

—Was it him?

The person on the stretcher had a face familiar to Huo Ling Long, yet it was as gaunt and pale as a corpse's.

Even in his unconscious state, his brows were slightly furrowed, as if he were using the last remnants of his life to endure and struggle against the approaching agony of death.

His eyes were tightly shut, and his lips were deathly pale, devoid of any color.

A strand of his disheveled hair was quickly soaked by the rain and clung to his face.

For a moment, Huo Ling Long felt as if she were in a trance, as if in a dream, as if intoxicated.

She simply gazed at him.

She suddenly realized how much she wanted to see him.

—She had looked at him thousands of times, missed him tens of thousands of times, dreamed of him day and night. She didn't know if she had been watching him like this in a past life, but she knew that in this life and the next, she wanted to keep watching him like this forever!

When would the dream end?

In this lifetime, would they ever hold hands, smile under each other's gaze, and watch the bustling mortal world pass by with a light laugh?

Shao Jizu said coldly, "What you wanted, I have brought. What about what I want?"

Huo Ling Long slowly took out the piece of yellow silk brocade but did not hand it over.

Looking at the person on the stretcher, she couldn't help but ask, "Wait, why is he... why is he unresponsive?"

Shao Jizu's face was as pale as if he hadn't slept all night, and his eyes were bloodshot. Hearing Huo Ling Long's words, his tone grew even colder: "Weren't you at West Bridge Ferry when he was injured? Did I administer the 'Like Old Friends at First Sight' on him? Did I strike him with the 'Great Compassion Palm'?"

Huo Ling Long fell silent. She knew the risks he had taken. She couldn't ask for too much.

—Though she didn't love him, for some reason, she didn't want him to be harmed. Was it because the harm she had inflicted on him had already become too deeply ingrained?

Biting her lip, she said, "The antidote."

Without a word, Shao Jizu tossed over a small vial.

Huo Ling Long held the tiny medicine bottle as carefully as if she were holding his very life. Hesitating, she added, "How do I know this is the real antidote?"

Shao Jizu raised his head arrogantly. A cold smile still lingered at the corner of his lips: "If you don't trust me, why did you ask me for the antidote?"

Huo Ling Long could say no more.

She owed him too much, after all. Since he had already brought him before her, she had no right to question him.

After a moment of contemplation, she finally reached out her hand.

With a wave from Shao Jizu, the black-clad warriors placed the stretcher in front of her.

Tucking away the yellow silk brocade, he seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Lifting his head to look at Huo Ling Long, he realized she wasn't looking at him at all. Her gaze was fixed intently, almost obsessively, on the person lying on the stretcher.He turned his back and walked away without looking back. His horse let out a soft whinny in the drizzle.

Behind him, the warriors of Jinshi Hall silently followed him back, their footsteps unusually light in the misty rain.

Huo Ling Long could not see his face.

His face remained handsome, still a fusion of ice and fire.

Yet, a trace of a malicious smile had unknowingly crept to his lips.

Huo Ling Long did not notice when Shao Jizu and his men departed. Clutching the small medicine bottle tightly, she rushed to the stretcher.

Her heart was in turmoil, even more chaotic! She could barely catch her breath.

──The face on the stretcher was even paler, so pale it seemed almost unfamiliar.

Huo Ling Long couldn't help but whisper softly, "You... how are you—"

The bloodless face, which had seemed devoid of life, now faintly groaned, and his chest appeared to rise and fall slightly.

──Could it be that he still had life? Could it be that his life was still struggling?

Huo Ling Long hurriedly said, "How are you? Quick, take the antidote quickly."

His hand seemed to tremble faintly, for her rain-chilled hand had already grasped his.