Chapter 309: A palace apart, a wealthy lady, a fight between light and darkness, and the whereabouts are exposed (seeking monthly tickets in October)
The hall was dimly lit, and the crowd had all fallen silent. Li Xian, who had night vision, observed his surroundings, feeling a growing unease, though he couldn't pinpoint why. He thought to himself, "No matter what, I need to plan my escape route first."
Quietly retreating to the palace door, I tried to push it, but it wouldn't budge. The door was a full three inches thick, made of mysterious stone and strange wood, with hidden mechanisms and latches inside. Once closed, it required a special method to open. There was only one side hall entrance leading to the outside; there were no other exits.
Li Xian became secretly vigilant. In this enclosed space, if something were to suddenly change, it would be difficult to guard against. He suddenly saw several people moving stealthily towards the door. Their movements were extremely light, indicating they possessed light-footed skills, yet they were dressed in ordinary clothes, like common people from the marketplace.
Li Xian thought to himself, "There's definitely something fishy going on... What are these people trying to do by hiding among the common people? Could it be... that they, like me, are also looking for a way out and are constantly on guard? It's best not to run into them for now and just observe how things develop." He used the Seven Star Steps to disappear back into the crowd.
Gu Nianjun, Zhou Shijie, Li Xiaofan, Yang Wentian, and many other prodigies stood at the front. Zhou Shijie leisurely fanned himself and said, "This Madam Wang has quite the airs. I wonder what the etiquette is for offering incense in the main hall."
Wang Dezhong said, "I arrived a little earlier and am more familiar with the rules here. The main hall is a pure land, a forbidden land, and a place of longing, and it is rarely open on weekdays. To offer incense in the main hall, one condition must be met."
The group of prodigies were all curious and asked, "What are the conditions?"
Wang Dezhong said, "We need to distribute wealth!" Yang Wentian asked, "How much wealth?"
Wang Dezhong held up one finger. Zhou Shijie said, "One thousand taels?" Although it seemed like a lot, he wasn't particularly moved.
Wang Dezhong said, "It's ten thousand taels!" Zhou Shijie said, "Ten thousand taels is indeed a lot, and it's only used for burning incense and worshipping Buddha. Such extravagance is truly astonishing."
Everyone nodded in agreement. Wang Dezhong shook his head and smiled wryly: "Brother Zhou, you're oversimplifying things. This ten thousand taels is gold, not silver!"
A commotion arose. Yue Kai said, "Ten thousand taels of gold is one hundred thousand taels of silver. That's quite a sum of money! Does this Madam Wang have so much money she doesn't know what to do with it?"
Gu Nianjun exclaimed in surprise, "If this money were used to purchase rare treasures and concoct elixirs... although the expense would be enormous, it would still be acceptable, not so bad. But to spend it on burning incense and worshipping Buddha is rather... rather strange."
"This Lady Wang... I really want to see her in person."
Li Xian, with his keen senses, muttered to himself, "This temple is truly making a fortune. Even a drop of oil would be enough for me to cook a meal. This Madam Wang seems to be a generous person who doesn't care about gains or losses. In that case, it's not surprising that she's willing to give away the morning dew."
Wang Dezhong continued, "I'm afraid it's more than that. This is just the entrance fee. Entering the hall costs ten thousand taels of silver, and you also need to offer incense and pray for your wishes. It is said that the incense used by Madam Wang is even more... astonishing!"
Zhou Shijie asked, "Brother, please speak quickly."
Mu Hongchou said, "I have heard about this matter. This Lady Wang's incense is specially made. It is said to be made from the oil of a golden whale in the deep sea, cooked and refined, and is called 'Golden Rain and Jade Dew Fragrance'. Its value... is probably far more than ten thousand taels of gold. I heard my master estimate... it would cost thirty thousand taels of gold!"
All the prodigies were horrified: "Oh my, what kind of person is this lady? Such extravagance makes my heart ache." "Thirty thousand taels of gold...that's three hundred thousand taels of silver. Enough to build countless cauldrons and support countless people."
The surrounding people clicked their tongues and said, "My goodness, that's enough to buy so many steamed buns! We'll be eating meat every day from now on!" "More than that, enough to marry ten or so wives!"
As the crowd gasped and murmured in surprise, the woman approached. She was graceful, dressed in yellow, with a charming face, and adorned with gold and silver ornaments, exuding an air of nobility.
Li Xian immediately looked around, thinking to himself, "Is this Madam Wang? She looks kind and gentle, not like a wicked person. The morning dew is in her hands, perhaps I should give it a try?"
He had a kind face, and his wealth did not make him appear arrogant. He had kind eyebrows and intelligent eyes, and he was very approachable, making people feel close to him at first glance. My mind immediately became active.
Madam Wang bowed to the abbot and said, "I am grateful for your company, Abbot." The abbot smiled and said, "Madam Wang has the world in her heart, praying for the world and for all people. Such merits will be remembered by future generations. My little bit of trouble is nothing."
Madam Wang smiled slightly and said, "Then let's begin." With a flick of her sleeve, two maids brought over a box, unfastened the hidden clasp, and "Golden Rain and Jade Dew Fragrance" was revealed.
This incense stick is twelve feet three inches long, golden and crystal clear, with a flawless, translucent blue hue. Its patterns and carvings are exquisite, inlaid with pearls and jade.
Wang Dezhong said, "Legend has it that a single deep-sea golden whale is only enough to make three sticks of Golden Rain Jade Dew Incense. The pearls and jade ornaments in this incense, after being perfumed by the incense, are as if bathed in the blessings of heaven and earth, and thus exhibit a mystical quality. After the incense has burned out, the pearls and jade on the incense sticks are as good as new, and are also quite exquisite ornaments. With the incense of the golden whale attached, this Lady Wang has built temples several times. After the incense burned out, she would give away the remaining pearls and jade to others to form good karma. She was truly an extremely generous and wonderful person."
Upon hearing this, Zhou Shijie couldn't help but feel admiration and longing. Another person quietly entered his heart. As the saying goes, "possessing both literary and martial talents, and being fickle..." They were a perfect match.
Lady Wang held the Golden Rain and Jade Dew Incense in her hands and offered it in worship. The incense was lit and placed in a specially made incense burner. The smoke curled upwards, with wisps of gold mixed in with the white mist, drifting into the sky. The main hall was fourteen zhang high, with small holes in the top to allow the smoke to pass through.
A bronze mirror is also inlaid on the roof of the hall. This mirror, named the "Mirror of Manifestation," is a rare and precious artifact, and its price is considerable. This mirror refracts light and has the wondrous power to turn the mundane into the miraculous, and the miraculous into something even more miraculous.
Fireworks floated up to the top of the palace and were illuminated by the "mirror of divine manifestation." As if possessed by divine power, the fireworks drifted out from the gaps in the top and merged into the clouds high in the sky.
Suddenly, a loud "boom" was heard, and colorful thunder roared outside the palace, followed by the falling of golden dew. The people bathed in the dew without feeling cold at all, as if they were being showered with sweet rain, and they were overjoyed.
Minor ailments are cured, major illnesses are half-cured, strange diseases are strengthened, and those without illness are made more robust. This "Golden Rain and Jade Dew Fragrance" can summon rain from clouds and thunder from fog, sprinkling golden rain upon heaven and earth, bringing blessings to all people; its uses are truly wondrous.
While the talented individuals and commoners within the palace could not bathe in the golden rain, they could still experience a similar effect from the aroma of incense and smoke. Suddenly, one of the prodigies experienced a burst of enlightenment, practicing swordplay on the spot to comprehend the mysteries, and strange phenomena arose all around him.
All the other prodigies benefited, some sitting on the ground, contemplating the martial arts, others practicing moves, adding to their understanding. They were all immersed in its profound mysteries. Li Xian also gained insight, thinking, "If I were to take this opportunity to comprehend, I would surely gain something. But that would inevitably expose me. Since I've already hidden here, there's no need to reveal myself. Otherwise, if Gu Nianjun notices me, she'll definitely try to prevent my brother from seeing me. This woman seems approachable and friendly, but she's actually arrogant. However, she's truly sincere towards my brother." He then followed the crowd, only exclaiming in admiration.
Lady Wang observed the crowd and smiled, "There are quite a few young talents today. They are all very pleasing to the eye." The abbot stroked his beard and smiled, "Indeed, just now, these heroes displayed their talents and burned incense to worship heaven and earth. I was quite pleased to see them doing so."
Although the Golden Rain and Jade Dew Incense was twelve feet long, it only took half an hour to burn. After several showers of golden rain and other unusual phenomena, it gradually died down. When the incense burned out, only three precious pearls and four precious jades remained.
Madam Wang presented the gifts to the young talents on the spot. Zhou Shijie, Wang Dezhong, Yang Wentian, and others each received one, and she said with a smile, "You young talents are truly rare. I have a treasure called Morning Dew Essence in my mansion. If you are interested in hunting a Snow Mountain Spirit Fox, I will send it to you."
Zhou Shijie hurriedly said, "Madam Wang... I am new here and do not know about this matter. Could you please explain it to me in detail?"
Wang Dezhong said, "There's no need for you to waste your breath, Madam. I'll tell you." He then recounted the events surrounding Madam Wang's "Morning Dew." Zhou Shijie, upon learning of this, felt his heart pounding and his desires stirring.
Mu Hongchou said, "Madam Wang... what if a woman hunts a snow mountain fox?" Madam Wang smiled and said, "If there is truly a woman who is no less capable than a man, then Huang Lu will naturally be happy to offer her up."
Gu Nianjun said, "That's too difficult. Hunting snow mountain foxes purely with archery skills is extremely rare in the world. It is said that Lord He of Flying Dragon City has a snow fox fur coat made of snow mountain foxes. He happened to hunt one when he was forty-seven years old, and that doesn't even count as hunting it purely with archery skills."
Lord He, a man of great learning, frequently visited "Emerald Bamboo Residence," where Gu Nianjun often conversed with him. Lord He was particularly honored by the "Snow Mountain Spirit Fox" and often spoke of it. As the weather grew colder, the snow-protecting fox fur proved useful once again. He wore it, exuding an air of nobility, which left an even deeper impression on Gu Nianjun.
Madam Wang smiled and said, "A young hero should have the spirit to break conventions and surpass limits. Otherwise, how could he be worthy of my Huang Jingbao, and how could he be worthy of my acquaintance, Madam Wang?"
The group of prodigies were stirred by these words. They had just become acquainted and were already full of youthful vigor; this further spurred them on. They were determined to try anything, no matter how difficult.
Madam Wang's attitude was gentle, which emboldened the others. Yue Kai said, "Madam Wang, if I may be so bold as to ask, of the three conditions you set, two are related to appearance. Could it be... could it be that you intend to select a husband?"
Lady Wang said, "That's not necessarily true. I have a particular fondness for men with exceptional archery skills. If one of them were to win my heart, choosing him as my husband would certainly not be out of the question. This young girl is also a woman; what do you think?"
Gu Nianjun said earnestly, "Archery best embodies spirit and character. Madam Wang has a keen eye; someone who can master archery to the highest level is indeed quite charming!"
Zhou Shijie's face darkened slightly as he thought of the disastrous defeat at the banquet. He had been utterly outmatched in archery and felt a pang of resentment: "That kid's archery skills are not bad, but he had the advantage of timing and location. In terms of pure archery skill, he might not be as good as me. I have been practicing archery in recent years, and I have to say I have surpassed him by a lot. Well... what's the point of comparing myself to him? I'm just a peasant."
Mu Hongchou agreed wholeheartedly, saying, "My senior sister also said that to judge a man, one must observe his archery skills. It's not about the accuracy of the arrow, but the spirit of the arrow."
Li Xian, listening from a distance, thought to himself, "In this respect, she is somewhat similar to the Madam. But that's to be expected."
Madam Wang smiled and said, "Alright, let's leave it at that for today." She led her maid away. Zhou Shijie watched from afar, unable to recover his senses for a long time. Only when her figure had completely disappeared did he finally come to his senses with a sense of loss.
The trip was a great success, and everyone was filled with pride and satisfaction. Still brimming with excitement, the group of outstanding individuals gathered for a lively discussion. Suddenly, the palace gates opened with a resounding boom. It was already evening, and the last rays of the setting sun cast their glow. Gazing at the distant city skyline, they were struck by its beauty and grandeur. The air was crisp and clear, and the atmosphere was incredibly pleasant.
The temple fair was drawing to a close, and Zhou Shijie seized the opportunity to win over the young talents by inviting them to a banquet at a restaurant. All the prodigies readily agreed and descended the mountain in high spirits. One of them suggested a contest of light-footed skills, which drew laughter. To avoid any unpleasantness, the rule was set: "Whoever is the fastest will host the banquet."
The group of prodigies were unwilling to be inferior to others, nor were they willing to be faster. Their speed was neither fast nor slow, but extraordinary sights appeared one after another, their figures ethereal and graceful. They all sped away along the mountain path, disappearing in the blink of an eye.
Zhou Shijie said, "Nianjun, you should come too." Gu Nianjun said, "Alright, you all go first, I'll accompany Xiaofan down the mountain." She thought to herself, "The one who helps Xiaofan will be among the talented people in our group. This talented person is quite unconventional; if I have the opportunity, I should get to know him."
Her pretty face flushed slightly.
Zhou Shijie wanted to accompany them, but he also wanted to wield influence among his peers. So he took the lead and used his lightness skill to catch up. Gu Nianjun and Li Xiaofan walked down the mountain, chatting and laughing along the way, in a relaxed and carefree atmosphere.
Gu Nianjun said, "Xiao Fan, what do you think of today's events?" Li Xiaofan replied, "What are you referring to, Sister Gu?"
Gu Nianjun said, "Regarding the matter of offering incense, Yue Kai is narrow-minded and not someone worth befriending. Xiao Fan, are you angry with him?"
Li Xiaofan said, "Why be angry? I don't take him to heart." Gu Nianjun said, "He used underhanded means to make you fall." Li Xiaofan laughed and said, "Sister Gu, I've fallen and stumbled a lot since I was little. What's one more fall?"
Gu Nianjun smiled and said, "That's true. Xiao Fan's pure heart is unmoved by external things. In the end, it's because I neglected you. I only cared about helping you make good friends, but I overlooked the barriers between you. Forcing things like this is not a good thing."
Li Xiaofan said, "What Sister Gu said is actually quite right. Since I am studying abroad, I should experience more things. Whether it is making friends or making enemies, it is better than just rushing through things."
Gu Nianjun laughed and said, "At this rate, in a few more years, Xiao Fan will surpass me in learning." She thought to herself, "Xiao Fan is indeed worthy of being able to read the 'Red Heart Sutra' so well. I have been taught by famous teachers since I was a child, but I still find it difficult to read the entire 'Red Heart Sutra'. Every time I read half a volume, I feel dizzy and lightheaded. Xiao Fan, on the other hand, can recite it fluently. This shows that his red heart and perseverance are beyond the reach of ordinary people."
"In this world... perhaps only his brother can influence him. Other matters and other people... just like before, have no effect on him at all."
Gu Nianjun said, "Although Yue Kai is narrow-minded, there are quite a few geniuses among us who are worth befriending. The situation was special at the time. Even if you were bullied by Yue Kai, I couldn't teach him a lesson for you. But that person's intervention helped me vent my anger."
Li Xiaofan asked, "Who could it be?" Gu Nianjun smiled and said, "I don't know yet. When I find out their identity, I will invite them to talk in detail."
Li Xiaofan's eyes crinkled as he teased, "Sister Gu, have you fallen for him?" Gu Nianjun replied, "I've never even seen what he looks like, how could I be interested? I just find his style rather unconventional and rare."
The two quickened their pace as they descended the mountain.
Li Xian followed the people down the mountain, leisurely and carefree. He had no interest in showing off his power, making friends, or anything like that. He secretly observed Li Xiaofan and Gu Nianjun, and seeing them walking together, he muttered to himself:
"No matter how many bad things Gu Nianjun has, and no matter how unpleasant I find her, there is always one thing about her that is not bad."
They followed along the path down the mountain. When they were a few miles away from Cuizhu Residence, Gu Nianjun said, "Zhou Shijie and others are preparing a banquet for talented people. Xiao Fan, are you going?"
Li Xiaofan shook his head and said, "I've wasted a whole day tonight, I should go back to my residence and study." Gu Nianjun knew that there was a rift between Li Xiaofan and the other geniuses, so she didn't say much, told Li Xiaofan to go back to his residence, and then she joined the banquet.
Li Xiaofan kept his hands tucked into his sleeves and hurried along with his head down. Suddenly, he felt a tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he exclaimed with delight, "Brother!"
Li Xian gestured for him to be quiet, saying, "It's best not to make a fuss." Li Xiaofan lowered his voice and asked, "Brother, is that Yue Kai... you...?"
Li Xian laughed and said, "Alright, you're getting smarter and smarter. Let's go, they have their feast, and we brothers will have our little feast."
Li Xian found a small shop by the street and ordered some congee, rice water, pickled vegetables, and braised tofu. Li Xiaofan sighed, "That one stick of incense costs more than a hundred taels, even several hundred taels. But this whole table of dishes only costs a little over twenty coins."
Li Xian said, "Yes." She then inquired about Li Xiaofan's recent situation.
Li Xiaofan said, "I followed my master on his travels and went straight out of Qiongtian Prefecture. Over the years, I've wandered around, living like a beggar. Occasionally, I've gone hungry or full. But overall, I've gained a lot."
"Moreover, my luck is stable. My master said that he has already arranged for me to participate in the 'Prefectural Examination'. If I pass, I can go further and obtain a wisp of luck."
Li Xian said with a sigh, "Now that you're on the right track, I'll naturally support you." Li Xiaofan said, "Let's not talk about this for now, brother. Please keep this."
He took out a cloth bag from his bosom. Li Xian was very surprised and opened the bag to take a look. Inside were several letters, with beautiful handwriting.
Li Xiaofan said, "During my studies, I found many suitable women for marriage, all of whom are of excellent character and family background. Brother, if you have time, or if you pass through the area, you can bring an envelope to meet them. A man's ambition lies in all directions, and it would be best if our Li family could also flourish in all directions."
Li Xian was both amused and exasperated, thinking, "Your brother is already entangled in a mess of emotional debts, and you're just making things worse." He said, "There's no rush."
Li Xiaofan said, "Actually... Sister Gu is the most suitable. It's a pity we're not meant to be."
Li Xian said solemnly, "Xiao Fan, you are determined not to marry, and you have a lifelong ambition to fulfill. As your elder brother, I will naturally support you. To be honest, although I am your elder brother, I can hardly help you in the slightest."
Suddenly, it occurred to him: "Xiao Fan travels around studying, and he will inevitably have to travel by boat. I have a book on pulse diagnosis, which I can give to him to study. It may be of some use. I have already memorized the contents of that book and mastered them. I only need to comprehend and understand them."
He continued, "Xiao Fan, here is a book. Take a look at it."
Li Xiaofan took the "Kan Nie Mai Shou" (a type of hand massage technique), examined it, and exclaimed in surprise, "Left Hand Meridian? Brother... how do you have this?"
Li Xian asked, "The Left Hand Sutra?" Li Xiaofan replied, "This book was originally called 'The True Sutra of Pinching the River with the Left Hand,' and it was written by Zhang Zhisong. He was an unparalleled figure, and even my master highly praised him."
"After various changes, the True Scripture of the Left Hand Pulse was lost, leaving only many miscellaneous copies. This book of the Kan Pulse Hand... I observed that its notes belong to one of these miscellaneous copies."
Li Xian said, "So that's how it is. That old blind man lied to me and said it was written by Zhang Zhisong in his early years, and I actually believed him."
Li Xiaofan glanced through it briefly and then said, "It may not be fake. Zhang Zhisong wrote a great many books in his life. The Left Hand Classic is his magnum opus, and this Kan Nie Mai Shou may indeed have been written in his early years, or even be the predecessor of the Left Hand Classic."
Li Xian smiled and said, "I'm glad I could help you." Li Xiaofan was deeply moved; the brotherly affection between the two was genuine and needed no empty words. He then put the item into his pocket.
Li Xian was in high spirits and ordered a jar of fine wine. He and Li Xiaofan drank several cups together, and did not part until midnight.
Back at the inn, Jin Yi, Huo Er, and four others immediately surrounded him, asking questions. Li Xian gave them casual, perfunctory answers, and they all believed him, returning to their rooms to rest.
Li Xian took out the "Peach Blossom Bow," its body crimson and its golden string dazzling. Bathed in moonlight, it exuded an aura of divine power. The peach blossoms, when crafted into a "spear," were of many shortcomings due to their lightness. However, when made into a "bow and arrows," they were exceptionally strong and perfectly suited.
“That Lady Wang doesn’t seem to be a wicked person. Starting tomorrow, I can try to go hunting in the snow mountain. If I can hunt a snow mountain fox, this trip will be a success. I’m afraid the competition will be fierce. I see that those other talented people also want to go into the mountains to hunt foxes.”
"Hmph, if we meet, then let's have a contest."
Li Xian's bow was as full as the moon, the string undrawn, yet his spirit soared. Many birds and beasts standing on the eaves of the tall buildings were swept away by an invisible, sharp force; their eyes rolled back, their legs kicked, and they fell to the ground with a thud.
...
...
On the other hand...
After Lady Wang finished burning incense and paying her respects, she retreated to the side hall and walked further in. Passing through a long corridor of flowers and plants, she saw an open-air viewing platform and heard melodious music. Behind a curtain, a woman was playing the zither with her delicate hands.
With a gentle touch of her jade-like fingers, a melodious tune was played. It was truly pleasing to the ear.
Madam Wang replied respectfully, "Madam, things have been done as you instructed."
A voice came from inside the curtain: "Is there anything unusual?"
Madam Wang said, "If there's anything unusual, there are more outstanding young talents today than in the past."
The music from behind the curtain gradually stopped, and the woman parted the curtain to reveal her figure. Her hair was adorned with a phoenix hairpin, her face was flawless, and her white dress was like gauze. It was none other than Madam Wen Caishang.
Wen Caishang pointed to the prayer mat next to her and said, "Please sit down." Madam Wang sat down as instructed.
Wen Caishang asked, "After closing the palace gates, did you pay close attention to the people standing by the gates?"
Lady Wang said, "I have already dispatched trusted confidants to hide among the crowd and secretly guard the palace gates. No suspicious persons have been seen."
Wen Caishang was slightly disappointed.
turn out to be……
The "Madam Wang" of Flying Dragon City was actually a scheme orchestrated by Wen Caishang. This "Morning Yellow Dew" was originally a treasure of City Lord He of Flying Dragon City. Wen Caishang managed to obtain it and used it as bait to lure Li Xian into a trap.
She was certain that Li Xian already possessed "Golden Scales" and "Yellow Ginseng," and was only missing "Morning Yellow Dew" to reach the "Golden Light" recipe. If she released news about "Morning Yellow Dew," Li Xian would surely be tempted.
She then set three more conditions to lure him in. Wen Caishang knew that Li Xian was cunning as a fox, suspicious and shrewd, and would never be easily fooled. Therefore, she carefully crafted the image of "Madam Wang," portraying her as kind, approachable, wealthy, and powerful, in order to dispel his suspicions.
However, the person who appeared was one of Lord He's wives, whose real name was "Duan Ni".
Wen Caishang further predicted: "If this boy really wants to get the Morning Dew from me, he will definitely investigate my situation beforehand. If he has the opportunity to contact me from the side, he will not let it go. I need to give him the opportunity to contact me, and... I must not reveal my true face. If he really sees through my disguise and runs away, then all my efforts will be in vain."
"Even though I am confident, I must not be careless when facing this brat."
Therefore, she frequently organized temple fairs and went to the Feilong Temple to worship. She also predicted that Li Xian must be hiding among ordinary people, as this boy was as cunning as a fox. So she had Duan Ni send her trusted confidants to infiltrate the crowd and secretly observe suspicious persons.
If anyone acts strangely, unlike someone who comes to offer incense and worship, he will secretly observe and be on guard. He will avoid all kinds of dangers. Once he enters the main hall, he will close the hall door.
Li Xian, being cautious by nature, would surely plan an escape route so he could flee at any time. He would undoubtedly sneak to the palace gate. Therefore, Duan Ni's trusted confidant was tasked with guarding the gate and observing suspicious individuals. If luck was on their side, they could capture them on the spot, saving a lot of trouble.
At that time, Wen Caishang will surely make Li Xian taste the bitterness of betrayal and get what she wants.
Duan Ni asked nervously, "Madam Wang, who exactly are you looking for? Do you have any distinguishing features? Is it possible that someone as capable as you cannot find such a person?"
Wen Caishang shook her head and sighed, her eyes filled with resentment. She said, "This boy is cunning and not easy to find. I suspect he may not be in Flying Dragon City yet. We will have to wait a little longer."
Duan Ni said with a strange expression, "But such extravagance... spending tens of thousands of taels of gold at a time... spending tens of thousands of taels at a time... isn't that a bit much..."
Wen Caishang said softly, "You're wrong. I didn't pay for this money."
Duan Ni asked, "That's...?"
Wen Caishang said, "Of course it will be blamed on that thieving brat. If I spend more today, he will have to pay back more." Duan Ni said, "What if he can't pay it back?"
Wen Caishang laughed and said, "How could you possibly pay it back? You're just a poor little thief, what money do you have? If you can't pay it back, then pay it back slowly. I have my own ways of collecting debts."
Duan Ni felt a chill run down her spine. Having heard a little about her methods, she thought, "Although this Madam Wang isn't as charitable as rumored, the amount of money she's given away is no less than what's said. If you calculate it this way, it's more than enough to buy someone's life. How will that kid repay it?"
The maid Xiao Tuan said, "Madam, the sedan chair is ready. Please step into the chair. The temple fair is over, and we should head back now."
Wen Caishang said softly, "Madam Duan, this matter is not yet resolved. Please come back to the manor with me."
Duan Ni had no choice but to agree, saying, "Alright, I'll leave it all to you, Madam." She knew this woman was not only quite wealthy, but also possessed considerable skill and ability. Although she spent a fortune, she hadn't neglected anything. She had already acquired numerous properties in Flying Dragon City, and the business was running smoothly, with daily profits substantial.
I've heard there are plans being made outside the city. He can handle everything, advancing on all fronts simultaneously. He's truly a rare individual, remaining anonymous. His abilities are unfathomable; Lord He once said, "Do not offend or provoke him."
The two sat in the sedan chair, and four palanquin bearers carried it down the mountain. A cold wind blew along the way.
The small procession followed closely behind, skipping and hopping along. As they passed the five incense burners outside the hall, the exotic fragrance was in full bloom, and wondrous sights appeared one after another, dazzling and magnificent. These incense burners would take several days to burn out, during which time the fragrance would linger and the wondrous sights would continue uninterrupted.
Xiao Tuan looked around curiously. Suddenly, among the many strange incense sticks several feet tall, one three-inch stick of ordinary incense, half-burnt, stood out.
It turned out that... the golden rain had extinguished Li Xian's mortal incense. The other-grade exotic incense was made of special materials, and once burned, it was not easily extinguished.
Xiao Tuan knew that Wen Caishang was trying to find someone, and seeing this unusual place, she called out, "Madam, look here."
Wen Caishang was practicing the Silkworm Jade Inlay Technique inside when she heard the commotion. She lifted the curtain and looked over, only to find the sight of the three-inch mortal incense stick quite abrupt. Slightly startled, she quickly smiled, her eyes crinkling with excitement. She knew who had done it; it turned out Li Xian had already been there. Both annoyed and pleased, she scolded:
"Well done, kid...you really dared to come!"
Xiao Tuan asked, "Madam, is it really him?"
Wen Caishang said, "This thief is of low rank but arrogant, and his behavior is often unrestrained and unpredictable. He is audacious but also meticulous. If it weren't for him, who would have deliberately placed a stick of ordinary incense here?"
"In this section... he hid very well, and when he entered the temple fair, I did not discover him. But this also shows that he did not know my true identity."
Xiao Tuan asked, "So what do we do?"
Wen Caishang lightly bit her red lips, her eyes sparkling as she recalled past events: the combined Yin-Yang Swordplay, surviving the perilous Tiger Cry Ridge, and the unrestrained revelry along the river… The feelings she experienced there were unforgettable, and every time she thought of them, she felt endless joy. Her emotions fluctuated between anger and delight.
Then he thought, "You owe me a debt of gratitude; I even helped you establish the foundation of your martial arts. Now that your skills have grown, you can slip away right under my nose without a trace. Good, good... you've really put that cleverness to use against me!"
"How dare you deceive me like this, Wen Caishang! Even if you please me, don't blame me for being ruthless!"
He said coldly, "I am in the light, he is in the dark. Let's see if he is as cunning as a fox, or if I am as shrewd as an old fox."
Suddenly feeling extremely angry and annoyed, he raised his palm and waved it away from a distance.
The incense shattered into thirty-seven pieces. Wen Caishang snorted coldly and said in a chilling tone, "Let's go back to the manor."
Xiao Tuan and Duan Ni both felt their hair stand on end. They thought that Madam Wen had gone to great lengths to find her lover, and now that she had found a clue, she should be even more affectionate and shy with joy.
However, at this moment, her tone was cold and angry, chilling to the bone, which was not what one would expect when searching for a lover. Her hatred and anger were genuine.
Furthermore, this person is capricious, unpredictable, and unfathomable. With the slightest anger, he can take lives or sever limbs, displaying extreme ruthlessness. If he were to get what he wants now, the fate of that person would be unimaginable.
Xiao Tuan thought to himself, "Oh no, oh no... Madam is no kind person. I'm afraid I'll have to go through hell again."
(P.S.: Happy National Day! This is nearly 8,000 words. Requesting monthly votes at the beginning of the month.)
(End of this chapter)
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