Su Yu was caught off guard at first. By the time Xue Ying shoved Xiao Han back into his hands, he finally processed what had happened. His face slowly turned red, and he trembled with anger.
“You… you…”
Xue Ying eyed the rabbit ears on Su Yu’s head—soft and pink—which twitched whenever he got worked up. His eyes reddened, tears dripping down his cheeks, paired with that delicate, pitiful face of his. It was almost too tempting not to tease him mercilessly.
Now she roughly understood why Cen Wuwang was so concerned.
The cultivators below began to stir, accusing Xue Ying of bullying. Feeling a twinge of guilt, she crouched down to comfort Su Yu. “Stop crying.”
Su Yu sobbed and cursed, “Get lost! I don’t need your pity!”
The more he looked at Xue Ying, the more annoyed he became. Seizing the moment when she was distracted, he yanked off her veil, thinking, *You’re done for, ugly.*
But when Su Yu saw her face, his breath hitched. A thought flashed through his mind—*How can there be a woman more beautiful than me in this world?*
Gasps erupted from the crowd below. Xue Ying swiftly snatched back Guanhuo and warned Su Yu, “Fights don’t involve faces.”
What kind of hero pulls off someone’s veil?
For some reason, the anger in Su Yu’s chest dissipated. When he looked at Xue Ying again, an indescribable feeling welled up inside him.
He had once sworn to his senior sister that he would only marry someone more beautiful than himself.
This person…
Su Yu turned his head away, rubbing his eyes to suppress the uncontrollable tears. With a stuffy voice, he said, “I’ll forgive you… on one condition.”
Xue Ying resisted the urge to touch his rabbit ears and replied patiently, “Name it.”
“Fight me again. But you have to go easy on me.”
He stared at her pleadingly, hoping for a rematch—maybe even a flirtatious swordplay session.
“No.”
She had principles. As a sword cultivator, she never threw fights—unless the payout was substantial.
Clearly, Su Yu didn’t understand the rules. He hadn’t offered her a single coin.
Su Yu flared up, glaring at her indignantly. “You want me to go back with you, but you won’t even humor me?”
Xue Ying frowned. “What’s the connection?”
A defeated opponent still had the nerve to argue? Did he want her to drag him back by his rabbit fur?
Su Yu shot her a resentful look, retreating strategically while his ears twitched. “Then I won’t go with you.”
Xue Ying didn’t respond. Instead, she pressed Bailu against his neck again, sword intent soaring. “Come on.”
Su Yu gritted his teeth. “You have no sense of romance!”
Enough nonsense. Xue Ying had no patience for his dawdling. “Fight or not? If not, come with me.”
The last remnants of his “I want a girlfriend” fantasy surfaced. Reluctantly, Su Yu nodded, still clinging to his pride. “Fine. But only because of the Valley Master.”
Xue Ying ignored him, already imagining the reward Cen Wuwang would give her.
On the way, Su Yu kept stealing glances at Xue Ying, trying to make conversation. “If you’re not ugly, why wear a veil?”
Xue Ying didn’t elaborate. “It’s fate’s gift.”
Su Yu didn’t understand. He hadn’t yet experienced the horrors of the “Voice of Truth” and assumed she had suffered some tragic past. A hint of sympathy crept into his tone. “It’s good you wear it. At least it keeps pests away. But when it’s just us, you can take it off.”
Xue Ying refused flatly. “No.”
“Why?”
“You’re too weak.”
This guy riled her up, only to whimper that he was exhausted afterward. Xue Ying was annoyed enough to consider dumping him and finding someone else.
Remembering the earlier incident, Su Yu sulked, turning his back on her.
He expected Xue Ying to apologize like his senior siblings would, coaxing him with sweet words. But she didn’t even cough in his direction. After stewing for a while, Su Yu caved first. “We don’t have to spar. I was taught by the Valley Master—I’m skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting.”
Gazing at Xue Ying’s profile, he even fantasized about their future—him playing the flute while she danced with her sword, a match made in heaven, envied by all.
With his looks, he had every right to dream big.
Xue Ying was baffled. “If not for swordplay, why would I bother with you?”
Su Yu tried to show off. “Life in Taisu Valley is rich and varied. Whatever you like, I’ll accompany you.”
“I like swords.”
Su Yu: “…”
As a disciple of Taixuan Sect, she polished and cared for her sword, accompanying Bailu through blooming flowers, summer ponds, and winter moons.
Su Yu’s face darkened. Sarcastically, he muttered, “Taixuan Sect is truly impressive.”
At least they knew how to pamper their wives.
The rest of the journey passed in silence. When they reached Taisu Valley’s temporary lodgings, they found guests waiting.
Several monks stood at the entrance, solemn and dignified, pressing their palms together at Xue Ying and Su Yu. “Please halt, benefactors. Our elder is discussing important matters with the Valley Master.”
Xue Ying took the hint and turned to Su Yu. “Want to come to my place for a bit?”
Su Yu, still sulking, snapped, “No!”
When Xue Ying made to leave, his temper flared further. “If you walk away, I’ll tell the Valley Master I came back on my own.”
Her hard-earned reward was slipping away. Reluctant to lose it, Xue Ying apologized to the monks and approached Su Yu, pursing her lips.
Su Yu’s petty pride was satisfied. Smug yet awkward, he said, “Follow me.”
Xue Ying wondered—this wasn’t Taisu Valley. How did he know where Cen Wuwang was? But Su Yu marched straight to the largest, finest courtyard in the back. Sure enough, Cen Wuwang was there.
Before they could get close, an enraged shout erupted:
“Cen Wuwang! You humiliated the Buddha’s Child! Today, I demand justice!”
The two exchanged glances. Moving closer, they saw the speaker—a towering monk wielding a vajra pestle, bare-chested and adorned with jewels. His imposing, wrathful demeanor exuded an aura of divine fury rather than effeminacy.
Opposite him sat Cen Wuwang, disheveled in loose robes, as if he’d just woken from a nap. Several Taisu Valley disciples shielded him, fearing the monk might strike.
Another familiar face stood beside the monk—Tang Yingjun, now bald, his once-lustrous white hair gone. Clad in his usual green robe, he tugged at the monk’s sash, pleading, “Lixiang, this was my choice. The Valley Master isn’t to blame.”
He touched his shaved head, smiling serenely. “Besides, it’s for the best. Now I’m just like you.”
Lixiang couldn’t swallow his anger. When the Buddha’s Child went missing, Luyeyuan had been thrown into chaos. Upon hearing he was at the Martial Arts Tournament, Lixiang rushed to Yunmengze—only to nearly faint at the sight of Youtan’s bald head.
*Who dared shave their Buddha’s Child’s hair?!*
Youtan had always been obedient—never straying, never resisting, even sleeping in the same position every night.
Yet one trip outside, and he’d lost Luyeyuan’s most prized asset—his hair.
As the Buddha’s Child’s guardian and personal assistant, Lixiang was livid. After learning the truth, he stormed straight to Cen Wuwang for answers.
Cen Wuwang hadn’t just shaved Youtan’s head—he’d shaved off Luyeyuan’s GDP for the next three years. Countless donations, gone with the wind. No wonder Lixiang was furious.
What if their female patrons switched to Tianying Pavilion’s pretty songstresses?
Finally rousing from his prolonged photosynthesis, Cen Wuwang took in Lixiang’s murderous glare and Youtan’s apologetic expression. He didn’t need to ask what had happened.
“What do you want?”
Lixiang clenched his fists, speechless. Cen Wuwang’s status was unique—from the Demon Emperor down to the lowliest Luyeyuan disciple, all had to show him respect.
Not to mention he was the Valley Master of Taisu Valley. Offending a healer came with consequences.
“You’ve insulted Luyeyuan’s dignity. You must make amends.”
For all his earlier bluster, Lixiang now faltered. Cen Wuwang picked up his pipe, unruffled. Spotting Xue Ying and Su Yu in the corner, he smiled. “Su Yu, come here.”
Su Yu shuddered, instinctively hiding behind Xue Ying. “No! You’ll make me wear dresses and take pictures again!”
Cen Wuwang’s voice was honeyed. “Would I air our dirty laundry in front of outsiders? I’d never force you into women’s clothing for photos.”
Xue Ying glanced at Su Yu. The poor boy was pale, lips bloodless, clutching her sleeve weakly.
“Save… me…”
Though tempted by the idea of Su Yu in a dress, Xue Ying played the hero. “Valley Master, Su Yu is just mischievous. He doesn’t deserve this.”
Cen Wuwang chuckled. “As Valley Master, I’d never bully my disciples. If I say no dresses, then no dresses.”
Xue Ying figured he wouldn’t go that far with outsiders present. Patting Su Yu’s hand, she reassured him, “It’s fine. I’m here.”
Su Yu, eyes red, pleaded, “Then don’t leave. Promise you won’t.”
Meanwhile, Youtan spotted Xue Ying. Tilting his head, he called out, “Dad.”
Instantly, all the monks turned to Xue Ying. Uncomfortable under their scrutiny, she coughed. “So Yingjun is the Buddha’s Child.”
He should’ve said so earlier. She wouldn’t have casually claimed him as a son.
Seeing Lixiang’s vajra pestle glow, Xue Ying hurriedly added, “My apologies for offending the Buddha’s Child. How about I call you ‘Dad’ a few times to even things out?”
Lixiang recognized her sect’s uniform, his tone icy. “You’re from Taixuan Sect.”
“Yuheng’s disciple,” Cen Wuwang interjected calmly. “Come here.”
Lixiang clenched his jaw. “Even if she’s his disciple, she shouldn’t disrespect the Buddha’s Child.”
Cen Wuwang motioned for Xue Ying to sit, then met Lixiang’s gaze. “Luyeyuan knows best what it’s done.”
The atmosphere froze. The younger generation, including Xue Ying, had no clue what they were hinting at. Surprisingly, Lixiang dropped the issue with Xue Ying, focusing solely on Cen Wuwang. “Her matter can wait. What about you?”
Cen Wuwang ordered Baizhu to fetch something, his smile returning. “My disciple erred and must be punished. Since you demand justice from me, I’ll lower myself and share his punishment.”
Lixiang was skeptical until Baizhu brought two booklets. Cen Wuwang handed one to Su Yu. “Read.”
Su Yu flipped it open warily. After skimming a few lines, he shrieked, “I won’t!”
Cen Wuwang leisurely turned a page, fingers tracing the fresh ink. “Fine. Then we’ll both wear dresses.”
“I’ll read!”
Ears drooping, Su Yu picked up the booklet from the floor. After much hesitation, he finally began—monotone, like reciting scriptures.
“Master, no… too deep…”
Lixiang’s expression twisted.
Cen Wuwang continued melodramatically: “She felt herself stretched to the limit, the massive—”
“CEN WUWANG!!!”
Lixiang roared, covering Youtan’s ears. “STOP!”
Cen Wuwang paused, smirking. “You demanded justice, yet reject my punishment. Very well—I’m at your mercy.”
His years of cultivated patience vanished. Breaking his vow against anger, Lixiang berated Cen Wuwang’s shamelessness. “I’ve never met someone so brazen! You disgrace healers! You’re unworthy of the title ‘Sage of Medicine’!”
With that, he stormed off, dragging Youtan away before further corruption could occur.
Before leaving, Youtan glanced back. Xue Ying, ever tactful, called out, “Take care, Dad.”
Youtan nodded. “I’ll visit tomorrow, Father.”
“Lixiang, what was the Valley Master reading? Why wouldn’t you let me hear?”
Lixiang, the assistant, refused to answer.
Once they were gone, Su Yu tossed the booklet and bolted like a startled rabbit. Xue Ying turned to Cen Wuwang, who calmly flipped pages as if studying sacred texts.
“Senior,” Xue Ying ventured, “what’s the history between my master and Luyeyuan?”
Cen Wuwang didn’t look up. “Adult matters. Scram.”
Remembering this man was her master’s rival, Xue Ying prodded further. “I’m set to inherit my master’s title as Sword Immortal.”
Cen Wuwang finally reacted, closing the book—*The Buddha’s Sutra on Virtue*, a fusion of Buddhist and Daoist teachings with… spicy content. Truly a man of refined tastes.
“What happened?”
Xue Ying’s reply was cryptic. “The old refuse to die, becoming thieves.”
The ancient relic chuckled darkly. After hearing her out, he leaned in. “If you want first place, let me help. Stay with me—I’ll train you.”
Xue Ying refused righteously. “Doping violates sportsmanship.”
Unfazed, Cen Wuwang said, “Your master was the same during his tournament. Know what happened afterward?”
“What?”
“He was bedridden for half a month, nearly bankrupting Taixuan Sect.”
Xue Ying seized the key point. “I’m different.”
“How?”
“Master wasn’t Sword Immortal yet after his tournament. If I win, I’ll inherit the title. By tradition, Sword Immortals get free healthcare here.”
Cangwu was stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter, shaking like a flower in the wind, and followed Xue Ying. Unexpectedly, Xue Ying spread her hands and said confidently, “You promised a hefty reward for bringing Su Yu back.”
Cangwu laughed heartily. He had spent his days teasing Yuhengzi, never expecting to be outmaneuvered by Yuhengzi’s disciple one day. It was amusing, truly amusing. “Fine, I’ll give it to you.”
Before leaving, Xue Ying said, “Senior, you gave me the snow marten for my master’s sake. Since things have turned out this way, should I return it to you?”
Cangwu stopped laughing. “Keep it.”
Xue Ying thought it made sense—once a gift was given, it shouldn’t be taken back. She considered borrowing Duyizhou’s twin carps to inform Wen An on her way back.
When her figure disappeared into the distance, Cangwu’s smile faded, lost in thought.
That little girl had played quite a bold move.
…
Delighted with her reward, Xue Ying returned and announced to everyone that the missing person notice from Taisu Valley had been resolved. The group seemed somewhat disappointed, so Xue Ying added, “After this, I’ll treat everyone to hot pot.”
Nearby, disciples from Taichu Sect were watching, and Ziya in particular was staring straight at her. Xue Ying reluctantly added, “I’ll treat everyone together.”
Both sides were pleased, but Xue Ying, her small treasury once again emptied, looked listless as she asked Duyizhou for the twin carps.
“I have a pet at home and need you to look after it for a while.”
After finishing her conversation and returning the twin carps, Duyizhou tossed her a brocade pouch. Xue Ying opened it to find it filled to the brim with spirit stones. Duyizhou, busy with his tasks, didn’t even look up. “If it’s not enough, come to me for reimbursement.”
Xue Ying beamed. “Thank you, Brother Du.”
Duyizhou remained indifferent. After Xue Ying left, he muttered under his breath, “Pauper.”
Meanwhile, Wen An received the message and stared at the few words on the draft in his hand before finally getting up to collect the snow marten from Ningshen Peak.
What kind of name was “Grandson”? She really had the audacity to come up with that.
After Xue Ying left for the Martial Arts Evaluation, Ningshen Peak became even more deserted. Amid the swirling snow, Wen An, feeling like a literary youth, arrived holding an umbrella.
In the vast snowscape, only a figure in green robes walked alone with an umbrella.
Sensing someone’s arrival, Shen Jin quickly put away his yo-yo and devoted himself to playing the role of a fallen sword immortal—no longer the image of a dignified swordsman, but one of defeat and melancholy after losing his former glory.
Unfortunately, Wen An had no maternal instincts. He greeted Shen Jin politely. “I’ve come to collect my junior sister’s snow marten.”
Seeing that Wen An intended to take away his beloved pet, Shen Jin immediately dropped the act. “No, you can’t take it.”
The snow marten sat in its basket, watching Wen An with almost human-like understanding. Wen An, playing the role of a sycophantic courtier to the favored concubine, said sarcastically, “Uncle Yuheng, forgive my bluntness, but since you’ve severed ties with my junior sister, no matter how much you love the snow marten, she won’t trust you with it.”
Shen Jin stepped forward and hugged the snow marten. “Xiao Bai is mine. No one can take her.”
Wen An became even more convinced that his Uncle Yuheng had lost his mind after framing Xue Ying.
Otherwise, how could a once-cold and aloof sword immortal turn into a snow marten-obsessed madman?
He had to take the snow marten back.
Wen An closed his bamboo umbrella and placed it against the wall. Guyu slid out from his sleeve. “Uncle Yuheng, don’t force me to act disrespectfully.”
Shen Jin seethed with hatred!
He wasn’t powerless, but if he summoned Fentian, his identity as the Demon Lord would be exposed.
In the end, Shen Jin could only watch helplessly as Wen An took the snow marten away.
“Wait.”
Wen An picked up the umbrella. “Does Uncle have anything else?”
Shen Jin reluctantly took out the yo-yo from his sleeve. “She likes playing with this.”
Though puzzled, Wen An accepted it.
“She’s quite delicate. The water must be kept at a constant temperature.”
“I understand.”
“Her food needs to be changed daily.”
“Understood.”
“And… can I hold her one last time?”
After Wen An finally left, Shen Jin abandoned his earlier sorrow. Not caring if Wen An might return, he immediately burned the Scarlet Flame Feather and called out to Nühou across the world.
“Nühou, I need you.”
Nühou, neglected for so long, perked up with joy and answered the call, gazing at Shen Jin with affection.
“At your service, my Lord.”
Shen Jin was furious. “Now, immediately, go to Yunmengze and kill Yuhengzi’s disciple.”
Mingong squeezed half his face into the frame, waving a copy of *Pure-Hearted Female Disciple and Handsome Master* excitedly. “My Lord, I have another plan—”
Nühou kicked Mingong’s stool away, her charming face filling the screen. “My Lord, Yunmengze is currently gathering elites from all sects. If we act rashly and attract attention…”
“She actually sent someone to steal my beloved Xiao Bai!” Shen Jin slammed the table in anger. Unfortunately, it was a stone table, so it didn’t make the satisfying *bang* like before.
Shen Jin withdrew his aching hand, exuding the dominance and tyranny of a ruler. “I don’t care how you do it. Go to Yunmengze and kill Xue Ying.”
Nühou caught the key point. “My Lord, who is Xiao Bai?”
“She is my heart, my treasure! Without Xiao Bai, what’s the point of unifying the four realms?”
Watching Shen Jin’s deranged state, Nühou felt despair.
The Demon Realm was doomed.
Their Demon Lord cared neither for beauties nor power—he only loved fluffy creatures.
Wen An returned to Runyu Valley with a twitching eye. Staring at the snow marten in the basket, he couldn’t help but send a message.
“I think Uncle Yuheng is seriously ill.”
Xue Ying didn’t receive the message. She was out shopping with Su Yu, who cried while devouring spicy rabbit heads, cursing Cangwu for being inhuman, only to exclaim how delicious they were after finishing.
Xue Ying kindly helped Su Yu finish the remaining rabbit heads, only to have her hand slapped away.
Rabbit spirits were truly peculiar.
“I thought you didn’t eat your own kind?”
Su Yu glared at her with his beautiful eyes. “What do you know?”
“The demon realm follows bloodline hierarchy. Lesser demons in Taisu Valley fare better, but outside, those of low status are eaten even if they’ve gained sentience.”
This was even crueler than the survival of the fittest in the Daoist realm. Xue Ying knew little about the demon realm, only that Taisu Valley had many medical practitioners. Now it seemed Cangwu had given them a protective talisman by making them healers.
“You came to me just to eat spicy rabbit heads?”
Su Yu grew flustered. “Who came specifically for you?” After hesitating, he pulled out a feather from his robe—from afar, it looked like a burning flame, surrounded by a golden halo—and shyly handed it to Xue Ying. “For you.”
Xue Ying took it, feeling its warmth. “What is this?”
Su Yu couldn’t bring himself to look at her. “They say it’s a phoenix feather. Wearing it wards off evil.” Afraid Xue Ying might think it too valuable, he added, “But the phoenix clan hasn’t been seen for centuries. Who knows if it’s real?”
Xue Ying had an innate curiosity about dragons and phoenixes. “Have you seen one?”
Su Yu wasn’t sure. “About a decade ago, a crow came to the valley, claiming to be a phoenix. Everyone mocked her, so she burned Taisu Valley to the ground in anger. The valley master caught her and spanked her. The feather in your hand was plucked from her backside.”
The girl had cried pitifully, begging Cangwu to return her feathers. Su Yu had secretly kept one, but since he couldn’t find all of them, the girl had left in tears.
Suddenly, the feather in Xue Ying’s hand didn’t seem so beautiful anymore. She tucked it away and asked Su Yu if he wanted to continue shopping.
Su Yu, with his androgynous face, lifted his chin haughtily. “Since you’re begging me, I’ll reluctantly accompany you.”
They explored the entire food street and didn’t return until midnight. Xue Ying, smelling of hot pot, decided to soak in the hot springs at the back.
The rear courtyard was shared by Taichu Sect and Taixuan Sect. When Xue Ying entered, she saw Lin Jiujiu already there. She greeted her and began undressing.
Lin Jiujiu asked softly, “When will Senior Sister officially compete?”
Xue Ying loosened her hair. “Probably tomorrow. These past few days were preliminaries.”
Lin Jiujiu nodded. Uncomfortable being alone with Xue Ying, she soon prepared to leave. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the feather on Xue Ying’s robe and froze, unable to contain her excitement. “Senior Sister, where did you get this feather?”
Without Guanhuo, Xue Ying felt awkward facing Lin Jiujiu directly, so she turned her back. “Someone gave it to me. If you like it, Junior Sister, you can have it.”
Lin Jiujiu’s breathing grew rapid. She tried to decline. “If someone gave it to Senior Sister, how could I take it?”
Xue Ying didn’t mind. A feather from someone’s backside, no matter how beautiful, felt odd. “It’s fine. I’ll find another gift for them later.”
As Xue Ying stepped into the water, Lin Jiujiu stood still for a moment, the cold seeping into her limbs. Finally, she reached out.
This was given by Senior Sister, not stolen.
“Th-thank you, Senior Sister.”
Xue Ying hummed in response and began washing her hair.
Once the door closed, Lin Jiujiu stared at the feather in her hand, trembling with excitement.
A phoenix feather—she recognized it. This was a genuine phoenix feather, capable of commanding the entire phoenix clan.
Legends said the phoenix clan hadn’t appeared for millennia. In her past life, Xue Ying had stumbled upon a complete feather, and the phoenixes had revered her as their master, offering countless treasures for her to choose from.
Now, this destined opportunity belonging to Xue Ying had fallen into her hands.
…
After her bath, Xue Ying slept soundly and woke up refreshed the next day. Team assignments had been decided the day before. Due to the large number of participants, the preliminaries were held at multiple locations, with everyone split into different teams. Unfortunately, Xue Ying ended up alone.
No one from her sect was at her assigned venue. Ziya bounced over eagerly. “I’ll accompany Senior Sister!”
Yan Gou, who had always been at the bottom of the ranks, also raised his hand. “I volunteer to lead the way for Senior Sister.”
Neither wore Taichu Sect robes, each dressed more flamboyantly than the other. Duyizhou had no reason to stop them, but Xue Ying was puzzled. “Aren’t you competing, Ziya?”
Ziya grinned brightly. “I’m here to pick out ores.”
Then he gave Xue Ying a pitiful look. “After the Martial Arts Evaluation, will Senior Sister accompany me to explore the mountains and rivers?”
Before Xue Ying could answer, Duyizhou’s icy voice cut in. “Why not go to the Treasure Appraisal Pavilion in the West Market?”
What era was this, digging for ores by hand? Did he think Taichu Sect exploited its disciples? Ores could be bought with money. If they couldn’t be bought, it just meant more money was needed.
Keep throwing money at it!
Ziya immediately deflated.
Aside from these two, Lin Jiujiu also expressed her desire to go. She glanced at Duyizhou, reminding herself it was a necessary compromise.
“Here are some energy-restoring pills. Please accept them, Senior Sister.”
Xue Ying felt awkward accepting the gift. She wanted to tell Lin Jiujiu not to push herself, but seeing Liu Junzhuo nearby, she tactfully held back.
The group set out together. Next door was Taisu Valley, where Su Yu had been waiting with his sword for a long time. He had even prepared breakfast for Xue Ying, but upon seeing the entourage of handsome men and beautiful women behind her, he immediately turned away. “Let’s go, Senior Sister.”
Baizhu chuckled but didn’t comment. When they reached the arena, Su Yu exclaimed, “Why are they here again?”
Baizhu laughed. “You never asked.”
Su Yu’s expression soured. He grumbled about why they should care, only for Baizhu to twist his ear mercilessly.
“Senior Sister, it hurts! Let go!”
After the commotion, Xue Ying entered the arena while the others watched from outside. Su Yu crossed his arms and scrutinized them one by one. “Why aren’t you competing?”
Once he finished, he smirked arrogantly. “Bunch of losers.”
He stood there proudly with Xiao Han in his arms. Ziya retorted, “What’s there to be proud of?”
The sword was forged by his master.
As they bickered, a disturbance arose from behind. The crowd parted as a young man in blue robes approached. Compared to the flamboyant Ziya and the others, this man wore his wealth on his sleeve—maidens and attendants scattered flowers and sprinkled water along his path, the scent of perfume lingering in the air. With his black-and-gold folding fan, he was the epitome of extravagance. He stopped before Su Yu in his embroidered boots. After a moment of staring, Su Yu’s earlier arrogance deflated. The blue-robed man looked down at him.
“What Twenty-Four Divine Swords? Nothing special.”
Though Su Yu was new to swordsmanship, he had already adopted the worst habits of sword cultivators. “Don’t insult my sword!”
Ao Fugui sneered at Su Yu’s delicate, pretty face. “I don’t argue with women.”
Su Yu nearly jumped in rage. “Who are you calling a woman?”
Yan Gou hurriedly held him back. “He’s from the East Sea Dragon Clan.”
The East Sea Dragon Clan had been dormant for years but had recently become active again due to the birth of a true dragon. The dragons, emboldened, began challenging various sects.
It was said that true dragons were destined to become Heavenly Emperors, ruling over the four realms. Their first target was Taichu Sect.
“Your sect’s artifacts are famous? Do they compare to the treasures of my Dragon Palace?”
The Yan family had once married a dragon maiden. After the true dragon’s birth, the dragons sought alliances. As a prominent family, they wouldn’t put all their eggs in one basket—Yan Gou’s uncle served in the Dragon Palace, while Yan Gou was sent to Taichu Sect.
Suppressed by his dragon bloodline, Yan Gou had no choice but to bow. “Your Highness.”
The other man scoffed. “I wondered who it was. Just a dog of the Yan family.”
Yan Gou remained meek, while the others seethed silently. Lin Jiujiu, shielded by Liu Junzhuo, stole a glance.
She recognized him—this was the true dragon of the East Sea, whose birth had shaken the four seas and altered the skies. With a violent and capricious nature, his noble status demanded respect from all sects. In her past life, when Junzhuo’s sword intent reached its peak and his fame spread, this man had deliberately provoked him, repeatedly clashing with him. He had even taken Xue Ying, declaring he would make her his concubine. Enraged, Junzhuo had slaughtered the entire dragon clan on his wedding day and personally ripped out his dragon tendons.
And this man’s name was…
Baizhu looked at him. “Your name?”
The crown prince fanned himself, exuding innate nobility. “I am of the East Sea Dragon Clan.”
Baizhu wasn’t swayed by his so-called “dragon aura.” As a transformed orchid spirit, like Cangwu, she was immune to bloodline suppression. She simply repeated, “I know you’re from the dragon clan. What’s your name?”
The crown prince became even more pretentious. “Call me the Blue Ice Swordsman.”
Baizhu slammed the table. “Stop messing around. Either compete or get lost.”
After a moment of silence, his voice dropped three notches. “Ao Fugui.”
Baizhu lowered her head to flip through the records. “Speak up. Ao what?”
“I said my name is Ao Fugui!”
The crowd fell silent for a beat before erupting in laughter. Unfazed, Baizhu handed out the number plate and kindly reminded him, “Check the competition list over there. Next!”
Ao Fugui snatched the plate, his refined face dark with resentment. He shot Baizhu a cold glare.
*Woman, well done. You’ve successfully caught my attention.*
Only after he disappeared backstage did the crowd burst into chatter about Ao Fugui.
“He’s from the East Sea Dragon Clan.”
“What a lame name.”
Lin Jiujiu didn’t laugh much. Stroking the feather in her arms, she recalled her past life—phoenix feathers required true dragon blood to activate. This true dragon…
Lin Jiujiu bit her lip and turned her gaze to the stage.
The preliminary rounds weren’t particularly thrilling. Balanced matches were rare; most were one-sided. Ao Fugui, ranked high, took the stage soon enough. His opponent, a lean cultivator, seemed aware of Ao Fugui’s reputation and conceded after five moves.
Underlings cheered, “The crown prince is invincible!” Ao Fugui scoffed, thinking the whole competition was idiotic.
As he turned to leave, Xue Ying stepped onto the stage. Yan Gou excitedly called out, “Senior Sister!”
Ao Fugui instinctively looked over. Xue Ying was locked in combat with a tricky opponent. She shed her casual demeanor, her sword tip lifting as a hint of sword intent leaked out.
Lin Jiujiu had been watching Ao Fugui’s expression. Seeing his eyes narrow, she knew he’d taken an interest in Xue Ying.
The match ended quickly. After stepping down, Xue Ying regrouped with Su Yu and the others, suggesting another meal. “How about barbecue?”
Everyone agreed. Lin Jiujiu lowered her head, coughing weakly before smiling apologetically at Xue Ying. “I’m afraid I can’t join you.”
Xue Ying expressed concern. “Take care of yourself, Sister Lin.”
Liu Junzhuo offered to escort Lin Jiujiu back, but she politely declined. After she left, Xue Ying didn’t dwell on it. “Let’s wait for Baizhu. It wouldn’t be right to leave her behind.”
Hearing this, Liu Junzhuo stood up. “I’ll go see Sister Lin home.”
Xue Ying readily agreed.
*If those two end up together and Sister Lin marries into the Tai Xuan Sect, we’ll be set for life.*
Meanwhile, Lin Jiujiu hurried after Ao Fugui. “Your Highness, please wait!”
Ao Fugui stopped. The woman before him was delicate and frail, exuding an air of vulnerability. Pretty, but not his type.
Lin Jiujiu panted softly, forcing a gentle smile. “Your Highness, do you know who that woman on stage was today?”
Ao Fugui feigned disinterest. “There are so many women. Which one?”
Lin Jiujiu lowered her head with a knowing smile. “Your Highness plays coy.”
When Ao Fugui didn’t respond, she continued, “She’s a disciple of the Tai Xuan Sect, a student of Sword Immortal Yuhengzi. Born with a sword bone, her swordsmanship is unparalleled. She’s your greatest rival in this competition.”
Ao Fugui snapped his jade-bone fan shut, smirking. “Go on.”
Lin Jiujiu steadied herself. “I can give you the Tai Xuan Sect’s *Tongchen Sword Art* to help you defeat her. But in return—”
Ao Fugui suddenly stepped closer, sniffing her neck. A deep, instinctive revulsion surged within him. “You disgust me. Get lost.”
Lin Jiujiu’s face paled. She stood frozen for a long moment before staggering away—only to find Liu Junzhuo watching from a distance.
“…Junzhuo.”
Ao Fugui dismissed Lin Jiujiu from his mind, but the earlier humiliation festered. He’d never been slighted before—until today, when that woman had the audacity to demand his name.
*Who does she think she is, asking for the name of Ao Fugui?!*
He summoned his lackeys with a dark look. “Bring that woman to me. I’ll teach her a lesson.”
Since he hadn’t gotten her name, Ao Fugui could only refer to Baizhu as “that woman.” Unfortunately, in the eyes of Ao Fugui’s faction, Su Yu also qualified as “that woman.”
The shrimp soldiers and crab generals debated. “Which woman does His Highness mean?”
“Isn’t it obvious? His Highness only called one woman today.”
Though lacking in other skills, these sea creatures excelled at bullying under borrowed authority. Armed with treasures from the Dragon Palace, they set out to capture Su Yu.
When Su Yu woke up on a lavish bed, bound hand and foot, his expression darkened.
*I was with everyone else! How did I still get kidnapped?!*
He struggled frantically, desperate to avoid becoming another joke among his peers. Then, noise came from outside.
The shrimp soldiers and crab generals announced proudly, “As per His Highness’s orders, we’ve captured the target!”
Su Yu immediately understood. *Damn pervert!* He redoubled his efforts to break free.
The restraints tightened the more he struggled. Su Yu was ready to jump out the window and flee.
Ao Fugui strode in, expecting Baizhu—only to find the fair-skinned Su Yu. Surprised at first, he soon smiled, sitting beside Su Yu and stroking his head gently. “Don’t be afraid. I won’t hurt you.”
Su Yu was livid. “Get your hands off me!”
Ao Fugui withdrew his hand, wincing at the red marks on Su Yu’s wrists. He blew on them soothingly. “Stop struggling. The Immortal-Binding Rope only tightens further.”
Su Yu felt sick to his stomach. Then Ao Fugui said, “I’ll release you if you promise not to run. Deal?”
Su Yu’s eyes gleamed. He nodded obediently.
Delighted, Ao Fugui retracted the rope. His demeanor shifted entirely. He pulled out his treasured toys. “How about cat’s cradle? Or maybe Old Maid?”
Su Yu glanced at the childish games and sneered. “I’ll play, but there’s something you should know first.”
He undid his belt. Ao Fugui’s face turned crimson. “Miss, isn’t this a bit sudden for a first meeting?”
Su Yu yanked down his pants. “Open your damn eyes and see—I’m a man!”
Ao Fugui peeked through his fingers, then recoiled in shock. He stood abruptly, dropping his own pants for comparison. After a moment, he muttered in disbelief.
“…It’s bigger than mine.”
Refusing to concede, he added, “But if we count by number, I still win.”
Tai Sui Yellow Amulet Paper FuLu Taoist Love Talisman Traditional Chinese Spiritual Charm Attracting Love Protecting Marriage