Chapter 114 Esoteric Buddhism "What...what happened to her?"
She hurriedly grabbed her sword and returned to her room. Without even taking a sip of water, Qiu Tong lit the incense sticks.
Seeing her like this, the spirit of the Tai'a sword immediately said in a crisp voice, "Master, why are you resting again? Your swordsmanship has not improved much yet, you must not give up now!"
Qiu Tong felt a headache coming on and couldn't help but bow twice to the Tai'a Sword, begging for mercy: "Just rest for half a moment, I'm not made of iron."
As he spoke, Jiuxing's face appeared in the blue smoke, somewhat pale, and his eyes showed exhaustion.
She said, "Qiu Tong, I roughly understand the origin of 'Prince Qingping'."
By this point, she no longer wanted to call him "husband."
Qiu Tong had already largely believed the mad Taoist's words; perhaps Prince Qingping was her father.
Power can empower people, but it can also harm them.
She looked at her mother again, biting her lip as she asked, "Mother, what is his background?"
Nine Stars' expression turned serious as he recalled the events of the previous night.
"He might be an undercover agent sent by the esoteric sect, trying to take the identity of King Qingping and control the entire fox clan for their own use."
Or perhaps, they came for Elder Hu Ping.
Although there are very few saints among the demon race, there are still a few living in the world. However, they have already reached the pinnacle of their abilities and have long since retired from public life, no longer concerning themselves with worldly affairs.
The reason why the fox clan can dominate the region is that, apart from King Qingping having cultivated to the realm of carefree immortality, it is because Hu Ping, a saint of the Returning to Truth realm, is stationed in Qingqiu. Although he has not left the mountain for a long time, his deterrent power remains, and no one dares to offend him to this day.
Qiu Tong shook her head. She wasn't sure if she had come for Elder Hu Ping, but...
"Mother, what is Tantric Buddhism?"
Nine Stars frowned slightly, showing some hesitation.
"The Esoteric School is a sect that was introduced from the human realm a few years ago. It has not gained much influence, and they have always only operated in the south. They have no connection with our Qingqiu at all, so I have not paid much attention to them."
When did he meet her? Isn't that suspicious?
Qiu Tong's gaze gradually darkened as she rapidly considered the sect in her mind.
But she was certain that she had never heard of Tantric Buddhism, whether in her past life or this one. Was it because it wasn't famous enough that she hadn't heard of it in her past life?
She looked up and asked again, "Could it be that Father has also joined the Tantric sect? What exactly does this sect do?"
“He is not your father.” Jiuxing emphasized this first, then shook his head and sighed, “I have been sick for too long and rarely go out. I only heard about the secret sect when the clan was discussing it before. I don’t know what they do.”
However, Ruoqin's two older brothers had already moved their entire families to the south. I only learned last night, when I casually asked them, that they had all joined a secret sect of Buddhism, which was quite surprising.
At this point, Jiuxing suddenly remembered something, and his face showed fear.
"When Princess Mingyue married into the demon clan, a major incident occurred at the wedding banquet."
At that time, the Wolf King Kuofeng presented a congratulatory gift to the Demon Lord, saying that he wanted to give him the Qingfeng Sword. Unexpectedly, his eldest son tricked him, and the box contained an evil sword!
That sword was extremely malevolent, and it was not easy to get close to it. However, Princess Mingyue was quite capable and managed to tame the sword, thus averting a bloody disaster.
Later, when the truth came out, the Demon Lord held him accountable, but the son of the King of Kuofeng refused to reveal who was behind it all. He was subjected to a soul search on the spot and became an idiot.
At that time, a young Taoist boy stood up for him, but the Demon Lord pierced his eyebrow with a spear and died on the spot. After returning to the Northern Territory, King Kuofeng immediately investigated the origin of the young Taoist boy. It took him several months to find out that he was a member of the Secret Sect, and he was furious.
I used to treat it as just an anecdote, something I'd hear and forget, but now, put it all together, it's truly horrifying!
The more Jiuxing spoke, the more alarmed he became.
It was the king of the tribe who fell!
Bah! He's not the Prince of Qingping!
King Qingping is easygoing and wise beyond his years; how could he possibly associate with a sect of dubious origin?
Jiuxing grew angrier the more she thought about it, but when she looked up, she found that Qiutong seemed to be pondering something.
"Qiu Tong, is something wrong? Your eyebrows and eyes are all furrowed."
Qiu Tong's expression changed several times, but she finally asked, "Mother, how does Princess Mingyue know how to tame a sword?"
She was very sensitive about the matter of sword taming.
Nine Stars simply shook his head: "I don't know."
Qiu Tong scratched her head, got up and took a few steps, and finally a flash of inspiration appeared in her chaotic thoughts.
She hurriedly turned around and pulled out a portrait from her bag. It was a portrait of Lin Feiran, drawn by the demon envoy who had painted it for her earlier.
"Mother, take a look! Does that's what the sword tamer looks like?"
He didn't smile much, but his expression was very peaceful!
Jiuxing leaned closer for a few moments, then hesitated, “She wears makeup and usually covers her face with a fan, so I can’t see very clearly, but… there is a resemblance in her features.”
Qiu Tong finally felt relieved.
She was even certain that the Princess Mingyue who had been married in place of her was none other than Lin Feiran.
But how did she become an envoy?
Furthermore, when we contacted that envoy before, they clearly said that Princess Mingyue was staying in the palace. Could it be that they have also turned against us?
etc.
It seems she had contacted "Princess Mingyue" through the Jade Token of Transmission. Could it be that the person she actually contacted was Lin Feiran?
Qiu Tong stood up and then sat down again, looking surprised.
Jiuxing didn't know why she asked about Princess Mingyue, and suddenly sighed softly.
"The important thing right now is not Princess Mingyue, but that human envoy."
Qiu Tong immediately stood up, as if she had been stepped on, and asked in a flustered manner, "What... what happened to her?"
Nine Stars said with some worry: "When that important person came last night, he told your father that he wanted him to kill this human envoy. This morning your father has already summoned your eldest sister, and it seems that they will be leaving soon."
Previously, this human envoy appeared out of nowhere, and the Demon Lord even declared that people should go and fight him. As a result, many people in the clan went to the Jingchuan Dojo.
No one went into detail about how the competition went, only saying that although the human envoy was only at the Sea Illumination Realm, his strength was not to be underestimated.
“Your eldest sister is currently in the Freedom Realm, two major realms higher than her, so she shouldn’t be at a disadvantage.”
That was the only way she could comfort herself.
Upon hearing this, Qiu Tong gasped, and then abruptly sat back down.
“Mother, that human envoy has now reached the Mind-Questioning Realm, and my eldest sister is only one realm higher than her.”
Nine Stars immediately breathed a sigh of relief: "Even a single realm is like an insurmountable chasm. Besides, your sister would send someone to test the waters first; she wouldn't be so reckless."
Your mother just wants to tell you today that if your father mentions the matter of Tantric Buddhism to you in the future, you must not take it lightly.
I will also try to contact King Kuofeng to inquire about the esoteric teachings in detail.
Qiu Tong had no choice but to nod.
As the incense burned out and her mother's figure disappeared, she took out the communication jade token from her mustard seed bag, pinched it tightly between her two fingers, and hesitated.
The person opposite Yu Ling is most likely Lin Feiran. Should I tell her about the assassination attempt?
Or should I contact my older sister first?
When she faces off against her older sister, who will emerge victorious?
Is fighting absolutely necessary?
Qiu Tong was extremely conflicted. She shoved the jade token back into her mustard seed bag, covered her head, buried it in the table, and kept muttering to herself.
The spirit of the Tai'a sword suddenly spoke up.
"Qiu Tong, if you have time to kowtow, why don't you go out and practice your sword?"
Qiu Tong: "..."
My feelings are even more complicated now.
*
After having a banquet at the restaurant and buying some dried goods, Lin Feiran and his group went to the back mountain of Xingzhi Palace to watch the sunset.
Like a picnic, surrounded by lush green grass, with plenty of snacks and dried goods laid out in front of them, the group sat or lay down, gathered together, and talked about their trip to the Sagrada Familia.
Bi Qing sat cross-legged on the ground, slapping her thighs and saying excitedly, "We clearly wanted to try our luck, but as soon as we got off the imperial carriage, we were taken to a dark room and met the Holy Spirit of the Human Race. He was truly as tall as a mountain, making people look up to him endlessly."
She then recounted her experiences at the Flying Flower Society in detail, mentioning Tianzhu, Hongliu, Leiming, and finally Xuanzhen.
"He failed to escape from the Heavenly Pillar at that time, so he became a manipulated pawn, mixed in with human cultivators. When we went to find him later, he was having his chin scratched by a human cultivator, and he looked extremely happy!"
Xuanzhen's face immediately turned red, her eyes widened, and she jumped three feet high off the grass: "I...I have this bloodline!"
Biqing chuckled and exposed her, "You're so happy you're practically squinting. Does that mean you'd be happy if anyone scratched you?"
She pretended to reach out and scratch Xuanzhen's chin, but to her surprise, he actually went limp, squinted his eyes, and said not to touch her.
Qingzhu couldn't stand it anymore and pulled Xuanzhen out of the clutches of evil. One of them was so angry that he jumped up, and the other laughed so hard that he burst into laughter.
Seeing this, he twirled his folding fan, the handle lightly tapping the two men on the head, and laughed, "Don't be silly. By the way, have you made any progress on what you were looking for at the Flying Flower Society?"
Before the Flying Flower Gathering, the group discussed that if they could meet the Sage, Biqing would want some nourishing pills, Xuanzhen would like to see her mother again, and Xun Feifei would like a prescription to alleviate the pain of the laceration.
But no one expected that things would change so drastically in Feihua, and they were trapped inside the Heavenly Pillar.
At this point, Xuanzhen, who had been hiding behind Qingzhu, jumped out again, hands on her hips, looking very proud.
At this point, Lin Feiran stopped what he was doing. Bi Qing looked surprised, and even Xun Feifei, who was usually calm and collected, stared in astonishment.
Xuanzhen just chuckled at everyone, revealing half of her canine tooth.
Ping An, unable to contain herself any longer, threw the rice panda she was holding at his head: "Don't keep me in suspense! Tell me now!"
Xuan Zhen turned around, took something out of the mustard seed bag, clenched it in her palm, ran to Xun Feifei in a few steps, and suddenly opened her hand.
"Look, Fei-ge, what's this!"
A crumpled piece of paper lay in Xun Feifei's outstretched palm. Xun Feifei's eyelids twitched upon seeing this, as if she could hardly believe it.
He glanced at Xuanzhen silently, his slightly pale eyelashes drooping, and finally reached out to take the crumpled paper.
Under the crimson sunset, even the ink stains on the paper were tinged with red.
One qian of Lianxincao (a type of herb), three qian of Ganlanzhi (another type of herb)... The names of the herbs were listed one by one, along with instructions on how to grind and decoct them. Finally, it was concluded that after three years of use, the pain of cracked skin could be relieved.
He looked up and asked, "Where did you get this prescription?"
Xuanzhen's eyes shone brightly: "Naturally, it was a gift from the Ancestor of Medicine!"
At that time, Lin Feiran pulled her to a literary contest, and then she returned to Tianzhu. Xuanzhen was particularly excited, and even felt a sense of impending doom. She wanted to find someone to share this with, but found that Xun Feifei and Biqing had already disappeared.
Just as they were wondering, the ancestor of medicine, who had been fast asleep, suddenly woke up. He seemed to be thinking about something and appeared to be full of energy.
Some of the more daring cultivators folded paper birds and flew to the feet of the Healer Ancestor, bowing in that direction. After a short while, the Healer Ancestor actually accepted the paper birds, unfolded them, and gave a reply.
"The ancestor of medicine was truly benevolent!"
Many disciples followed suit and also sent letters. Xuan Zhen immediately remembered Xun Feifei's matter, so he folded a small dog and jumped to the feet of the Medicine Ancestor, standing out among the neat letters.
Perhaps it was just a whim of the ancestor of medicine; he didn't accept them all, but casually waved his hand and accepted two or three, among which happened to be the little dog Xuan Zhenzhe.
Xuanzhen couldn't help but sigh, "Although I also feel it's a bit too coincidental, as if they specifically took this prescription from me, at least we got the prescription. After the Lord has rested, we'll have him test the prescription. If it works and heals the crack, then my godmother can walk around Jinling City with her head held high!"
Both he and Biqing had met Xun Feifei's adoptive mother, so they were naturally happy to hear about it.
"So that's how it is..." Xun Feifei carefully held the prescription, her brows no longer showing the weariness of the past, but instead revealing a radiance. "Thank you."
Biqing couldn't help but say, "It's a good thing you stayed inside the Heavenly Pillar. If you had left with us back then, wouldn't we have missed this opportunity?"
Xuan Zhen waved her hand and said, "If we have to trace it back to this point, then the source is Lin Feiran. If she hadn't called me away first, I would definitely have gone out with you."
All eyes turned to Lin Feiran.
Lin Feiran: "...I really didn't do anything this time."
Bi Qing looked at her and suddenly smiled: "Lin Feiran, the elders of my clan will be returning to the clan soon. I have asked them about your wish to see them, and they have agreed."
Upon hearing this, the expressions of the others changed slightly.
Lin Feiran's brows relaxed slightly, and he sincerely said to Bi Qing, "Thank you."
Ping An lay casually on the grass, and when he turned around, a cryptic smile appeared on his lips.
Qingzhu, stroking her folding fan, sat up straight and asked curiously, "Why do you want to see them?"
Lin Feiran didn't explain much, only saying, "I just want to ask a few things."
Xun Feifei put away the prescription, glanced at Qingzhu upon hearing this, and said in a clear voice, "Qingzhu, you seem to have become much more curious lately."
A green bamboo fan unfurls, a gentle breeze stirs, the hair on her forehead flutters, and the evening light reflects in her eyes, creating a beautiful, golden glow.
He smiled and said, “Oh dear, everyone has a sense of curiosity, and I’m no exception. Just like I’m curious about Feifei’s godmother. I’ve heard she’s quite an extraordinary woman. We’ve known each other for many years, but I haven’t had the chance to visit her yet. How impolite of me.”
When will you introduce me to someone?
Xun Feifei helped the silver-faced man up and was speechless for a moment: "I've told you several times, don't just call me Feifei. You're not in the demon realm eight out of ten days, so even if I wanted to take you there, I wouldn't find the right opportunity, unlike them."
He was referring to Biqing and Xuanzhen.
"Speaking of which, I haven't asked yet why you suddenly returned to the border?"
Qingzhu feigned a sigh, her face showing helplessness: "Why is it this question again? Is going home a mistake?"
He looked at the group and said in a leisurely manner, "After the Pilgrimage Valley incident ended, many rare and precious materials, magical artifacts and spiritual weapons flowed out of the valley. My small sect also joined in the celebration and insisted that we come out to compete for a share of the pie. So, I came out."
Xuanzhen exclaimed "Ah!" and leaned closer, saying, "Should I find you something to go back and report?"
Qingzhu raised her eyebrows slightly and smiled, "Xuanzhen has really grown up and knows how to be considerate. What do you want to find for me?"
Xuan Zhen smiled and took out a spiritual plant from her mustard seed bag: "This is Heavenly Dew. When you break through to a higher realm, you can absorb spiritual energy and nourish your spiritual veins. Lin Feiran registered it for me in her journal before she entered the valley. She gave me three plants, and I'll give you one. Don't be shy!"
Qingzhu couldn't help but chuckle, but she didn't go against Xuanzhen's wishes: "Just consider it a loan, let the people of the sect take a look. After they've seen it, I'll return it to them as is."
However, this way, I can stay in the area for a longer period of time without having to rush back. For as long as I stay, I will provide you with meals as a token of my gratitude.
Xuanzhen immediately cheered.
Qingzhu glanced at the group of people, then finally fixed her gaze on Lin Feiran, still smiling.
"When you first arrived in the demon realm last time, our acquaintance was quite brief. Now that we meet again after several months, I finally have the opportunity to get to know Miss Lin better."
Lin Feiran nodded slightly and said, "Since we're getting to know each other, there's no need to be so formal with my name. Just call me Lin Feiran."
Qingzhu closed the folding fan in her hand, a few blushes appearing on her lips, revealing a touch of gentleness amidst her elegance.
Author's Note: Actually, I secretly made up my mind last month to achieve perfect attendance this month, and I've been sticking to it for more than ten days. I felt I could finally talk about it, but I didn't expect to get a business trip assignment right after I finished. I drove all day afterwards and couldn't write anything. My flag was broken just like that. Damn it... Is this Murphy's Law? (X)
After the gathering ended, Lin Feiran returned to her residence at night. She practiced swordsmanship for an hour before washing up and returning to her room.
Her long hair was half-wet as she sat at the table. On the desk were two different-looking messenger birds, and on the far right was a brocade pouch that she hadn't had time to open that day.
She hesitated for a moment, then took down the inkstone from the shelf, unfolded two pages of letter paper, and wrote a reply.
If I had looked at the brocade pouch first, I probably wouldn't have been in the mood to reply.
[Senior brother, this letter feels like a personal visit. I have received your congratulatory gift, but that whetstone is far too precious; I cannot rest easy without reciprocating...]
Midway through her writing, she suddenly thought of green bamboo.
Just as he called her Fei Ran, that vague sense of familiarity welled up in her heart again, reminding her of an old acquaintance.
But upon closer inspection, Qingzhu's face did not resemble anyone she had ever seen before.
Qingzhu was the second person to be accepted as an envoy by Ruxian, only a month or two after Xun Feifei. In his early years, he stayed in the demon realm to jointly manage the area and rarely left the demon capital.
...Besides, even if it was a disguise technique, did Ru Xian and Xun Feifei not see or recognize it?
It's just my own feeling; upon closer examination, it's actually unreasonable in every way.
After calming his thoughts, Lin Feiran finished writing on the letter in his hand, which read "Hoping to see you again soon." He then folded the letter into a bird shape with his hands in a mudra.
She then selected several top-grade spiritual herbs from her mustard seed bag, placed them in the beak of the messenger bird, and then released it into the night.
Ji Changying's letter still carried some emotion, expressing himself on one page. When it came to Shen Qi's turn, it was a full eight pages of "On the Shanyang Sword Manual".
Every sentence is exquisite, every word a gem.
She dissected the entire sword manual, analyzing its strengths and weaknesses in great detail. Even a three-year-old could probably practice swordsmanship on the spot after reading it. Finally, she recommended several other books to Shen Qi, with the titles alone taking up a whole page.
This reply may seem cold, but she wrote it with great passion, and by the time she finished, the moon was already high in the sky.
Two messenger birds returned, and Lin Feiran slowly put down her pen. She sat upright at the table, gazing quietly at the brocade pouch, but made no move.
When she met the mad Taoist priest earlier and wanted to ask about her mother's cause of death, she used a cleverer way of asking the question.
She asked who sent Xunfang to abduct and kill her mother.
The mad Taoist did not answer her directly, but instead gave her three brocade pouches, and the answer she wanted was in one of them.
Her fingertips twitched slightly, her heart filled with a mixture of nervousness and apprehension.
Finally, as a night bird took flight in fright, her eyelashes fluttered slightly, and she raised her hand to open the brocade pouch.
It was about the size of a palm, sealed with a silk cord. Inside, there was only a light note. She slowly unfolded it, revealing a few strokes of ink that intersected to form two names.
Almost the instant she looked at those two names, two figures immediately appeared before her eyes.
One person wears a smile, exuding elegance and composure, always calm and collected.
A man with white hair and a youthful face, dressed in a white cloud robe, had a peaceful gaze that seemed to take in millions of people, yet also seemed to see nothing at all.
Human Emperor Shen Tu Lu and Star Domain Chief Ding Yi are a legendary monarch and a meritorious human who quelled the war between the human and demon realms.
Lin Feiran had met them when she was a child.
As the king of the human realm, the chosen one, the Human Emperor possessed his own set of benevolent principles and methods. None of his subordinates had ever harbored any disloyal thoughts.
And this loyalty will be passed on to the next crown prince.
I still remember when my father fell ill from longing and passed away, the Emperor, accompanied by Ding Yi and others, came to offer his condolences and ordered people to help her organize the funeral banquet. The regret in his eyes was genuine.
They brought young Lin Feiran to the Canxing Domain and asked her if she would like to join them.
That was the first time Lin Feiran had seen the two of them alone. They simply looked at her, their eyes showing neither inquiry nor contempt. They would have the same expression no matter which child they saw.
Seeing that she was young, Ding Yi handed her some fruit.
Lin Feiran refused.
She refused the fruit and the Star Domain, and holding the hand of her old servant, she left that wondrous place.
Lin Feiran refused to go, so the matter was dropped. From then on, the orphan was just an orphan and had no other identity.
...
Lin Feiran had never known them, and her father was a diligent official. Since they had no grudges against each other, why would they want to kidnap and kill her mother?
She recalled what Princess Mingyue had said earlier and couldn't help but wonder if it was for the Holy Palace Consort.
But that doesn't make sense.
The Emperor has countless capable men under his command. If it is for the sake of the Holy Palace Consort, why would he need another faction to join in the ambush and killing?
Moreover, judging from Xunfang's recollections, it is clear that another group was more proactive.
Just as she frowned, the note scattered with a burst of light and disappeared.
Lin Feiran looked at her empty palm, slowly closed her eyes, and clenched her hands slightly, trying to calm the anger surging in her heart and make herself calm down.
She had initially thought her mother was just an ordinary monk, but all indications suggested otherwise.
They were involved in the killing of their mother, but what was the reason?
What exactly is the role of a mother?
Who were the other group of people?
The root of all problems lies in figuring out who the mother really is.
In Lin Feiran's limited memory, her mother had no relatives and friends, never liked to associate with the noble families of Luoyang, and was never seen visiting any friends. She just stayed with them all the time.
According to what Princess Mingyue said before, the Holy Palace Consort should have some connection with my mother, but she has lived in the deep palace for a long time, and the palace is heavily guarded. The imperial city is also protected by array formations, so it is impossible for Lin Feiran to see her.
Murong Qiudi was very close to the people in the harem and was also a close minister of the emperor, so she naturally knew her mother.
However, she is currently investigating those suspicious cultivators in the Flying Flower Society. Their whereabouts are currently unknown, and they are not in Luoyang City. She is also unable to contact them.
So, among the people she knew, besides the Holy Palace Lady, who else knew her mother?
Lin Feiran's thoughts were quite chaotic, but the more difficult it was to sort out and the more anxious she became, the calmer she became.
In a flash, she opened her eyes and a glint of light flashed in her clear, bright eyes.
Back then, Li Changfeng was renowned as a swordsman. When she came down the mountain, she insisted on seeing him. At that time, her mother said that they actually knew each other.
However, after Li Changfeng left the mountain, he joined Ding Yi's forces and is now working in the Canxing Domain. Coincidentally, Ding Yi is listed as the person behind the scenes.
Therefore, she could not be sure whether Li Changfeng was involved, and she could not risk alerting him by asking rashly.
Lin Feiran felt somewhat frustrated as her thoughts stalled again.
There are too few clues at the moment. If she can recover her memory as soon as possible and recall the past completely, she will definitely be able to dig out some more clues.
However, the Biqing clan will not return for several days, and it is unknown whether they will be able to break her seal.
Just as he was frowning in worry, a dark figure darted across the courtyard.
First it appeared on the roof ridge of the palace to the side, then along the wall, then among the ginkgo trees, and finally a furry head popped out.
"Hot goods?"
Lin Feiran stood up in surprise, and then saw the burly man leap into the window from the tree. She immediately reached out and caught him, asking, "Why are you here?"
The rascal still looked like that green-eyed fox, with clear eyes, and barked at her.
It shook the small bag tied to its back, and a crisp clinking sound came from inside.
Was it a gift for myself?
She took off the small bag and discovered that it contained sea pearls.
Each grain is round and plump, and comes in black, pink, and white—you name it.
There was also a note mixed in with the beads.
There was no signature, nor was a signature necessary; one could immediately tell whose tone it was.
Lin Feiran's eyes lit up. Ru Xian had been in a high position for a long time, and she must know more about the past than she did. Why not ask her?
Having made up her mind, she grabbed the heavy goods she was about to leave, leaped out of the window, and rushed towards Ru Xian's residence.
Among the scattered halls, only one place was still brightly lit. Several ginseng boys walked through the courtyard, carrying incense, clear liquid, and holding green lamps, their steps hurried.
Halfway there, the group looked up warily, but when they saw Lin Feiran squatting against the wall with a clear face, carrying heavy loads, their wariness vanished, leaving only silence.
They thought, "Lin Feiran is here again."
One of the attendants stopped and kindly said, "Your Excellency, His Majesty is still bathing. Whatever the matter is, please come again tomorrow."
She looked at the goods, but wondered to herself, could it be that the pearls were picked out while taking a bath?
The two stared at each other, one human and one beast. The beast didn't understand human speech, so she was destined not to get the answer.
Lin Feiran sat down against the wall and said, "It's alright, I'll just wait here for a while."
The people in the corridor then became wary.
How familiar are these words of seduction! Could this be the little lecher that humans talk about?
The children were still young and their minds were very active. In addition, Lin Feiran had a history of trespassing. Thinking of this, the word "lecher" was deeply imprinted in everyone's mind.
"Then let's wait here. The Lord has not seen anyone these days, so we'll probably be waiting in vain."
The group left indignantly, leaving Lin Feiran completely bewildered and hesitant.
Although he doesn't sleep at night, it doesn't mean he wants to talk to me about these troublesome things. These things are none of his business... But if I don't ask at night, wouldn't I have even less of a chance to speak after he falls asleep during the day?
Should we come again tomorrow night?
But we're already here.
While struggling with her inner turmoil, Lin Feiran hugged the chubby dog, subconsciously pinched its paws, and silently began to count.
Go, or not go, go, or not go...
What are you doing sitting blankly against the wall?
Suddenly someone spoke, and Lin Feiran looked down and saw it was Ru Xian, who had just come out of the bath.
He stood with his arms crossed under the eaves, a light mist still clinging to him, his gaze questioning, his tone cool.
"Why are you here to admire the moon so late at night instead of sleeping?"
Lin Feiran paused for a moment, then let out a short, questioning sound: "Huh?"
The stubborn creature reacted quickly, leaping out of Lin Feiran's arms and landing in the courtyard. It brushed past the clusters of brocade, circled around Ruohua's ankles, and began to whimper softly, behaving like a fox.
Upon seeing the goods, he looked enlightened and turned to Lin Feiran, asking, "Did you receive the beads?"
"received."
Lin Feiran then stood up, leaped from the wall to the corridor, and, fearing that he might misunderstand, began to explain.
"Because I had some doubts, I wanted to ask the Venerable One, but I heard that the Venerable One has been out of sight recently. If it is inconvenient, I will come again in a few days!"
Ru Xian looked down at her, her expression unreadable.
Perhaps because he had just taken a bath, his snow-white hair was still warm and damp. He tucked it behind his ears, but a few strands fell onto his cheeks and eyes, making it hard to ignore.
He was only wearing a long silk robe that reached his ankles, loosely tied, revealing glimpses of his chest and long legs.
He looked around for a moment before turning and walking into the corridor: "Ask whatever you want."
This meant agreement, and Lin Feiran immediately followed.
He walked barefoot, yet everything he passed was spotless. A familiar, cool fragrance wafted from ahead and quickly dissipated into the air.
"What do you want to ask?" He glanced back sideways, raising an eyebrow slightly. "You've been following me for so long without saying a word. It's hard for me not to suspect that you have ulterior motives for coming here."
Lin Feiran immediately clarified: "I had no ulterior motives, I just didn't know how to bring it up!"
Without turning his head, he pondered for a moment and then replied, "I do believe that."
Ru Xue had many residences, and this was one of them. Compared to the previous pavilion in the building, this place was much more spacious.
As the two talked, they walked around the corridor, stepped through the moonlight, and stopped in front of a door. Outside the door was a misty pond, where fish occasionally leaped out of the water.
He stood at the door, his chin slightly raised.
"Open the door."
Lin Feiran did as instructed, and as soon as she opened it, a stream of warm air poured out, dispelling the chill of the autumn breeze.
The floor was still covered with a velvet carpet, several low chairs were placed in the center, and a long couch was placed under the window. Compared with the previous house that was full of jewels, this place seemed much simpler.
However, what they had in common was that there was also a very tall wooden shelf on the right side of the room. On the left side of the shelf were books and treasure boxes, and on the right side were porcelain vases, interspersed with a few bottles of osmanthus branches, so that the room was filled with a faint fragrance.
Ru Xian walked in from behind her and said only, "What are you standing there for?"
The boy rushed in early and rolled around on the carpet. When he saw Ru Xian walk to the low machine and sit down, he moved closer to him and started to act cute and charming.
But he didn't give it a second glance; he simply rested his chin on his hand and looked lightly at the person outside the door.
"Aren't you coming in?"
With the homeowner's permission, Lin Feiran performed a traditional Chinese greeting, removed her boots, and entered.
In some ways, Ru Xian is indeed a person who enjoys life. No matter which place he stays in, the style is different, but it is always the same in terms of comfort and refinement.
Ru Xian stared intently at Lin Feiran, watching her tiptoe carefully inside. It was clearly only a distance of five or six steps, but she took ten steps to finally sit down opposite the low machine.
Anyone who didn't know better would think she had sneaked in.
He hadn't intended to, but he couldn't help but chuckle.
Lin Feiran realized that it was strange, so he coughed lightly, feeling a little embarrassed: "Your Majesty, this carpet is truly extraordinary. I have never sat on anything so soft before."
Ru Xian straightened up and replied without any modesty, "Of course, if you like, I'll have someone pave the ground for you tomorrow."
Lin Feiran immediately shook her head: "That's not what I meant. Using it in my room would be a waste."
She had taken a bath before coming, so her long hair was loose down her back. However, after a long time, most of the dampness in her hair had dissipated, and when she shook it, it swayed a few times.
Ru Xian had never seen her with this hairstyle before, and her eyes couldn't help but be filled with curiosity.
With her hair pulled back, her face was fully exposed, and her posture was upright, revealing a hint of understated sharpness.
But her demeanor was different; it was as if a long sword had been sheathed, its sharpness concealed, leaving only a profound tranquility and purity in her appearance.
He suddenly raised his hand and reached towards Lin Feiran's neck. She did not lean back to avoid it, but quietly looked at his wrist, as if she wanted to know what he was going to do.
He did nothing but pick up a few strands of hair and caress them for a moment. On his wrist, the thin rope woven from her long hair remained in place, with not a single osmanthus blossom falling from it.
"A bit rough around the edges."
He made this assessment, then got up and walked to the side cabinet, took out a porcelain box, and placed it between the two of them.
He lifted the lid of the box, revealing a pale white ointment inside.
"Apply some, and you'll feel much better tomorrow."
Seeing that Lin Feiran was just looking and didn't move for a long time, he assumed that she didn't know how to use it, so he leaned over the table and went over to her.
He touched the cream with his fingertips and then picked up her long hair.
"Just apply it like this and massage it in."
He moved slowly, applying every bit of the ointment from his fingertips and pads to her hair, leaving no stone unturned.
It was clearly just smearing hair, yet it inexplicably sent chills down my spine.
His breath was cool and warm, and his figure shielded Lin Feiran from the surrounding candlelight.
He was only wearing a silk robe today, which was not very concealing to begin with. With this movement, the collar was wide open, and his legs were pressed against the edge of the table, revealing his long legs that were completely exposed, as well as the gold ring that had a half-dent in it.
Lin Feiran immediately looked away and looked up.
Above was his open collar.
Those who wield guns must be in perfect harmony with their waist and stance, so their chest and waist are stronger and more resilient than ordinary people. When they move, the area around their collar becomes particularly noticeable.
Unable to look up or down, Lin Feiran didn't know where to focus her gaze.
In a moment of desperation, she raised her hand and grasped Ru Hai's wrist, leaning back a few inches: "My Lord, I know how, I can do it myself!"
Ru Xian glanced at her, nodded slightly, and then withdrew her hand: "Then you can do it yourself."
He took out a piece of brocade cloth and slowly wiped the ointment off his fingertips. Seeing that she was starting to do it herself, he asked, "What did you come tonight to ask?"
Lin Feiran naturally did not forget the purpose of her trip. She suppressed the slight stirring in her heart and succinctly told Ru Xian about the brocade pouch.
"...So, just now I opened that brocade pouch. The person who instructed Xunfang to intercept and kill my mother was the Human Emperor and the head of the Canxing Domain. But I have lost too much of my memory. Before finding out why they did it, I want to break the seal in my mind first."
Ru Xian crossed her arms and looked at her, then suddenly raised an eyebrow: "So, you want to go to the Jade Clan to find out how to break the formation?"
Lin Feiran nodded in agreement: "I wonder if Your Excellency has heard of the fact that a human saint once stayed in the Jade Clan?"
Ru Xian pondered for a moment, then shook his head.
"That was a matter of the previous generation. When he settled here, I should not have been born yet. However, I have heard that he did take in a disciple, who was extremely talented and had fully inherited the true teachings of the sage."
At this point, he looked at Lin Feiran and offered some advice.
"The Jade Clan has lived in seclusion for many years, disliking chaos, yet they have been frequently disturbed. Only after I ascended to the position of Demon Lord did they relocate their entire clan to the vicinity of the Demon Capital, voluntarily offering up their mineral veins in exchange for protection."
How could they be so certain?
After pondering for a moment, Lin Feiran asked, "Since you intend to live in seclusion and avoid competing with others, why are you being disturbed?"
As Xian said, "Possessing a treasure is a crime."
"Where the Jade Clan resides, mineral veins naturally arise. Some people, out of curiosity, captured many members of the Jade Clan to investigate, only to discover that the mineral veins were attracted by them."
After all, all things have a spirit, and these naturally formed treasures are no exception.
Upon hearing this, Lin Feiran recalled the spiritual vein in his storage pouch and nodded in agreement.
Ru Xian glanced at her and continued, "Such spirit mines are extremely rare, whether for refining or forging. Therefore, many people try to control them and seize a continuous supply of spirit mines. With everyone vying for one, there will never be peace."
Although they are tough and resilient as adults, they are actually as fragile as jade in their childhood, and can be easily cracked by the slightest bump.
In the years of fighting, many children have lost their lives here, leaving their families dwindling. Including herself, Biqing's generation only has three children.
Lin Feiran listened intently, and thinking about Bi Qing's cheerful personality, a flood of emotions welled up in his heart.
Ru Xian added, "The Jade Clan is always embroiled in conflict until that human saint stepped in, and the situation finally improved. Therefore, this saint is extremely important to them, and they will not reveal anything to outsiders unless there is a special reason."
They despise those who are cunning, deceitful, and dishonest. People like you are the ones they like the most, so there's no need to worry too much.
Since those elders are willing to see you, it means they intend to answer your questions. Just ask sincerely; there's no need to hide anything.
Hearing these words, Lin Feiran felt much relieved.
As soon as one thought was suppressed, another unexpectedly popped up.
"Impossible." As if knowing what she was going to ask, Ru Xian spoke decisively, "You should know better than I do that with your current abilities, you can't even get into the palace, let alone face Ding Yi."
He is at the same level as me, in the Divine Realm. To defeat him, you must first defeat me.
If you want revenge, you must keep a low profile.
Lin Feiran, as far as I know, you're not an impatient person, are you?
Lin Feiran naturally knew this, but since he only learned it today, he couldn't help but feel a little agitated.
"...While investigating the truth, I will diligently cultivate myself. Your Excellency need not worry. I will not act impulsively."
Ru Xian looked somewhat satisfied. He looked straight at Lin Feiran, and then, as if remembering something, said...
"When facing such an opponent, one must hone one's sword to ensure a swift decapitation before standing before him."
“I know.” Lin Feiran nodded, then suddenly smiled. “Lord, I had a dream before. In the dream, when you heard about this, you waved your hand and said, ‘Ding Yi is nothing to me. I will take you back to kill him.’”
"Dreaming?" Ru Shan's eyebrows twitched slightly as she quickly seized on another point. "How many times have you dreamed about me?"
Lin Feiran's smile faded slightly, and he was actually thinking back. Then, under the scrutinizing gazes of Ru Hai, he silently said, "It seems like it was only this once."
Ru Xian was not surprised at all. He brought his thoughts back and joked, "The first dream I've ever had, and it's so unreal. Do you think I would say something like that?"
Lin Feiran was about to shake his head when he heard him change his tone: "Even if I said such a thing, you would never agree. You would only say to me, 'My lord, thank you for your kindness, but I will take revenge myself, so there's no need to trouble yourself.'"
Lin Feiran choked, unable to refute.
Ru Xian is indeed a strong person. Even now, she can easily lead her into the palace. She may even be able to fight Ding Yi.
But she refused.
Just as she had said before, she always trusted her own hands and her own sword more than anyone else.
Moreover, Ru Xian is an outsider and has no reason to get involved in this mess. Everyone has their own destiny to face, and so does he.
Thinking of this, Lin Feiran asked, "Lord, how is the Cloud Soul Rain Spirit Grass we retrieved last time?"
Ru Xian shook his head: "This kind of spiritual herb cannot be used casually. It will probably take another half a month before it can be used in medicine."
Lin Feiran pursed her lips and still asked the question that had been on her mind: "Lord, when you were looking for someone to form a contract with, you wanted someone to enter the Pilgrimage Valley and retrieve the Cloud Soul Rain Spirit Grass for you. Later, you chose me, but the contract we made was for a period of time that was not limited to the Pilgrimage Valley."
So, it might not be able to cure your illness?
Ru Xian answered frankly, "Yes, if this disease were easy to cure, I wouldn't have let it drag on until today."
Lin Feiran suddenly fell silent. She took out the notebook again, turned to the blank second page, and pushed it in front of him.
Ru Xian raised an eyebrow slightly, somewhat surprised by her persistence, but only stroked a corner of the book page without saying a word.
Lin Feiran said, "This is a notebook I prepared for myself, originally intended to record some acts of chivalry. Many people have already left their names in it, and I thought..."
“I know.” Ru Xian pushed the book to her side. “I also told you that my name is unusual. If it falls on this page, the whole book will be burned on the day I die. At that time, your hard work will be gone, and you will inevitably blame me.”
This was the first time Lin Feiran had heard the reason behind it.
I won't blame you.
She pushed the booklet back.
Ru Xian still didn't agree, but instead seemed to appreciate it, flipping through the pages back and forth before finally stopping at the first page.
The first page has the three characters "Lin Feiran" written on it.
After examining it closely, Ru Xian opened her lips and asked, "Why do you want to include my name? We've already made a pact."
“It’s different,” Lin Feiran explained. “The contract is you making a pact with me, you asking me to help you, but what’s written in the notes is my intention, it’s my own desire to help you, and you’re willing to agree.”
The words are spoken bluntly, and the differences are extremely subtle, but Ru Xian just happens to understand them.
He lowered his eyelashes but changed the subject: "I've seen this name before and thought it was a signature, but now I realize you put your seal on it too. Why?"
Lin Feiran leaned over to look before explaining, "Because the first person I helped was myself."
The implication is self-evident.
Ru Xian was somewhat surprised. He turned to look at Lin Feiran, not expecting this reason.
He paused for a moment, then smiled and closed the note, handing it back to her.
"Therefore, my name must not be mentioned again, and please do not bring it up again."
Lin Feiran sighed slightly and put the note away with a hint of regret: "My Lord, I have one last question."
Ru Xian nodded, signaling her to speak.
Lin Feiran leaned closer and asked in a low voice, "Your Majesty, when did Qingzhu become an envoy? Did he often stay in the Demon Realm before?"
Ru Shan's eyes narrowed slightly, her fingertips tapping the table intentionally or unintentionally: "Why are you asking this?"
Lin Feiran didn't explain further; she couldn't very well say that she suspected Qingzhu's identity, as that would be seen as sowing discord.
"I'm just a little curious about him."
Like a hailstone murmured softly.
"He joined my ranks very early on and became an envoy. Before I sent him to the human realm, he spent almost every day in the demon capital."
Ru Xian never called her that.
He either called Lin Feiran by her full name or used a title she had never understood, making it sound like he was mocking her.
Lin Feiran couldn't help but recall that Qingzhu called her that. Could it be that Ruxian already knew about their previous conversation?
"I've only known Qingzhu for a short time, so I'm just curious about his background, but I don't have any other questions."
She looked at Ru Xian and thanked him, saying, "Thank you for answering my questions tonight, Your Excellency. It's getting late, so I won't disturb you any longer."
Ru Xian nodded slightly, without trying to stop him: "It's almost the end of autumn. Come find me again in the middle of next month, and I will remove the curse for you."
Upon hearing this, Lin Feiran performed the Taoist salute again, then closed the door and left.
After she left, Ru Xian rested her chin on one hand, looked out at the autumn pond, and slowly rubbed her other hand in the half-cold tea.
After a moment, he withdrew his fingertip, still looking out the window, but his fingertip moved slowly across the table.
The water streaks quickly intertwined to form the words "like hail".
His hand paused, he glanced down at it, remained silent for a few moments, and then wiped it away.
She even left a second page for herself in that journal, which was thoughtful of her, but if she couldn't write it down, then so be it...
Author's note: Ru Xian has a great figure, with pectoral muscles and a V-line, she's not a skinny stick (X).
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