Chapter Text
The accomplishment of releasing Jue di Gorge from the horror that plagued the well-known grounds was completely eclipsed by the dreadful news of the cultivation world’s treasured lady’s ailment.
The Violet Spider!
The Lady of Crimson Sunset!
The Goddess of Divine Lightning!
The Silver Fairy of Bai Lu Mountain!
The Blessed Saintess of Victory!
The Celestial Maiden of Meishan!
To think that she lost her sight!
Why, the Heavens deserved to be cursed a thousand times over for this transgression! You could have plucked the dragon’s beard, but why mess with their Maiden Yu?!
In droves, concerned young masters didn’t even bother sending their servants and, instead, stood vigil in Meishan Yu, all expressing their woes at the dilemma and willingness to help.
Master Wen, the miracle physician, has been hounded by major sects right, left and centre, begging him to find a cure to circumvent the demonic poison that vile creature from the Demonic Realm injected in their beloved lady that reacted only when her meridians were unblocked.
The benevolent doctor wished that they would listen to him when he said that he’ll do what he can. Have they forgotten that the dearest maiden in question is his precious student? There’s no need to nag this old man! Can someone take these young lords in purple and white robes home? You’d think they were his grandsons from the way they’re hanging on to his robes. Won’t Sect Leader Wen also rein in his heir so he won’t terrorize this old man who is also his elder into hurrying his analysis? Please spare him the crying ladies standing just outside his doorstep as well! And if he sees Young Master Nie snoring outside his medicine hall once more, he’ll file a complaint to Qinghe Nie. There’s even royalty bothering him as though he sold off his senses somewhere. This young prince, thrashing on the floor of his home like a freshly caught fish, all dignity forgotten, demanding that they save his patron saint right at that moment. Do you all think this is helping?! This old man is getting distracted from looking for a cure, you rascals!
It’s a good thing that the children of Meishan Yu were trying to prevent themselves from adding on to the pile of burdens. He did see the poor young master of Meishan Yu cry but he was promptly stopped by his elder sisters from making any unreasonable demands from the godly physician. Wen Chuali was grateful but he can see the pressure emanating from the two madams, Madame Feng and Madame Zhang, whenever they pour him tea. Aigoo, aren’t you just bullying this old man?!
“Are you alright, Master?” the firm but polite voice intruded the harassed old physician’s train of thought.
The kind doctor huffed once and thought that the one who should be panicking the most was the only one who hasn’t pestered him for the remedy.
“All good, Little Yuan.” Master Wen’s gaze softened at the unshakeable tranquillity surrounding his talented pupil. Not succumbing to despair or alarm, Yu ZiYuan quickly analysed the state of her body and exchanged opinions with her teacher regarding the cause of her blindness. Due to this, the reason behind it was soon revealed and they lost no time in thinking up countermeasures. “Thanks to Little Yuan’s conjecture that it wasn’t a naturally produced poison; we managed to get Qinghe Nie to search the body of that demon and the vicinity of that cave. I’ve already figured out the ingredients used for this toxin.”
“Will master tell this student? I might be able to discern what needs to be done.”
Chuckling at the unperturbed air around the regal face, one old master and young student discussed the ingredients of the poison and the ways to detoxify it.
While Yu ZuYuan can’t pore over texts in order to do research, she has a great reserve of information from studying extensively on the subject of poisons and detoxification. After studying the venom used on her, they found out that the materials used to make it can all be found in Jue di Gorge. The Demon Realm seems to have a wealth of knowledge of herbs growing in the Mortal Realm. It’s a good information to inspect but, unfortunately, it needs to be filed for later scrutiny in light of their current plight.
After a long discourse, both master and pupil agreed on the ingredients needed to dispel the poison. Yu ZiYuan even made a suggestion to use acupuncture in order to maximize its effect. The good teacher lauded his student for her astute reasoning, not losing to doubt and indecision.
“Hmmm, the ingredients needed will be a chore to gather. Especially the Dragon Spear Herb. This student is ashamed of having to burden Master with it. My Meishan Yu will surely handle all the necessary chore.”
“Don’t fret, Little Yuan. I’m sure that there are plenty of hands that can be called upon for the job.” The strange glint in the eyes of the venerated master was, fortunately, witnessed by no one.
You dare stress this old man? Why, you rascals had better be prepared to cough up all you can!
-0-
When the kind master finally announced that they have found a cure that would help the beloved daughter of Meishan Yu, Sect Leader Yu was about to call on his elders to help in gathering the necessary herbs, sparing no costs. However, the great doctor stopped him and said that he would source the necessary ingredients elsewhere.
The Sect Leader tried to protest as he didn’t wish to give other sects or people the opportunity to belittle or even take advantage of them through this favour. But, somehow, the news of the necessary materials for the Violet Spider’s antidote has already travelled the length of the land and in overwhelming numbers, the packages containing said components flooded the gates of the sect, all carried by devoted young masters and their servants.
Young Master Nie and his lady were the first to intrude with several boxes of high-quality Winter Vine herbs, knowing that such herbs can only be found in their lands.
The Lans also sent their two sons to deliver some rare and precious White Storm seeds that they were fortunate enough to have in their treasure store.
The Wens seemed to have gained an ounce of magnanimity based on the number of boxes their young master brought with him.
And even the Jins sent something through their prospective daughter-in-law who has got a conniving gleam in her eyes after presenting a Thousand-Year-Old Sage Orchid, straight from the despondent Sect Leader Jin’s vault. Hou MeiXiu looked proud of herself for the heist offering.
Sect Leader Yu tried to get his refusal heard over the babble of voices flooding his sect but the lavish boxes of herbs were all but shoved to his face by eager young men, pleading with him to let them help so that they might see their beloved Maiden Yu out and about sooner rather than later. The young masters were singing of stories of how the lady had helped them before and her sworn siblings were determinedly asserting their responsibility to come to their aid due to their relationship with Yu ZiYuan.
“Come, A-Die. Don’t make yourself ill over something so little.” Yu ZhiLan assisted her father in maintaining composure, slender fingers on his arm for comfort.
This is little? Sect Leader Yu frowned, watching the boxes of herbs in front of him pile higher like growing bamboo shoots at every breath.
“They mentioned that these are due to their gratitude to Little YuanYuan, A-Die. For sure, they won’t suddenly ask for recompense later.” Yu ZiHan asserted with an air of mischief.
Yu Guiren’s eyes narrowed with intense mistrust. If any of these young masters don’t hope for a return of their affections in exchange for these expensive ingredients, he might as well retire from his post. Do they think him blind to their secret desires?!
“It’s not as if Little YuanYuan can be bought by such trifling offerings.” She added with a bit of arrogance. Surely, they don’t think this would suffice? To her, these costly curatives, reduced to nothing but trifles, are nothing in comparison to her younger sister’s heart.
At these words, Sect Leader Yu managed to calm down. His daughters speak logically. Every one of them is aware of how difficult it is to reach his third daughter’s heart. Since she can’t be held hostage by feelings of guilt or gratitude, this gesture can barely move her. She would surely work hard to repay them in some other way instead.
Satisfied, the dignified man finally cleared his throat with calm. They would need to work harder than this to get his daughter. Ha! His Yuan-er is not so easy, let me tell you!
On the other hand, the great healer, who temporarily let go of his compassion and integrity to rob these annoying little masters of their valuable herbs to get back for harassing him, was looking at the trove with a pleased hum.
After checking everything and making all necessary calculations, he figured that everything but one has been gathered. He turned his regard to the horizon, sending a prayer to the young master he sent on a mission. He can’t quite explain why he chose that particular gentleman for this undertaking but something tells him that only he could do it. He’s got an inkling of the fate between him and his dear student. Well, it might just be an old man’s nonsense, but he can’t seem to dismiss it.
“I would be needing that Dragon Spear Herb.”
Recalling the unwavering gaze from a pair of clear blue-grey eyes, Wen Chuali smiled assuredly with one hand coming up to stroke wispy white beard.
“I’m counting on you, young Jiang.”
-0-
“Young Master! Please pace yourself!” Wei Changze frantically called out to his lord who’s leading the journey. Upon perceiving that their distance with each other is getting bigger again, he spurned his sword a little bit faster. “Young Master! Half of the disciples are falling behind!”
The purple-robed young master merely looked over his shoulder to ascertain the extent of separation before replying in a loud voice. “Let the others continue in their own time! They know the destination so just have them come after me!”
He already said that he didn’t need the entourage but they still insisted on coming. He can’t very well delay such an important expedition to accommodate his supposed guards.
He could hear his attendant’s worried cry but he paid it no heed as he cut through the skies towards his destination.
“Young lord, veer more to the east! We should arrive in two shichens!” Cangse Sanren seriously yelled from behind him. Her faint voice over the large distance between them carried the strain of trying to gain on the hurrying Jiang heir.
They started the trip four days ago as soon as Master Wen came to them specifically for an errand, sparring little time for food and rest. The younger disciples were at the end of their rope, about to foam at the mouth from exhaustion. However, their young master, despite the wounds that are yet to heal from his last night-hunt and getting even less rest and food due to apprehension, appeared unbothered by fatigue.
From the time they learned that the madam got poisoned by that horrid demon, there’s a terrifying flare in their future sect leader’s azure orbs as though he’d readily slay anything in order to make things right for his lady. That’s why no one dared peep a complaint over the merciless demand of the expedition. Even his personal servant, Wei Chanze and their guest, Cangse Sanren, kept mum and merely faithfully ensured that everyone can endure for a little longer.
After what felt like an unending rush of strong, sharp dawn wind against their faces, they finally saw a looming mountain in the distance and the dozen or so young men seemed ready to cry in relief.
It should be Mount Li!
As soon as their feet touched the ground, each harangued disciples were ready to collapse but upon seeing their young master lose no time to look for the Mystique Cave mentioned by Master Wen, they knew that they’re risking their necks by resting. As one, they all groaned and willed their feet to move.
Blind to their pitiful state, Jiang FengMian’s bright blue orbs roamed the mountains for the secret cave the good doctor told him about. He was made to promise never to divulge the knowledge to anyone else since the spirit dwelling in the cave, much like the Damsel of Annual Blossoms, would not welcome a constant stream of visitors.
It’s the only place the physician knows they could for sure get a Dragon Spear Herb, for as long as they pass the spirit’s test. Although not even Master Wen knows the content of the test or what exactly the spirit in the Mystique Cave is looking for, Jiang FengMian vowed that he would get the prized herb by any means necessary.
“Young Master Jiang, don’t be mistaken that you’ll need to best it in wit or strength. It is your soul that would determine your worth. Don’t disappoint this old man.”
The heir of Yunmeng Jiang doesn’t know why Master Wen came to him specifically for this but he was grateful for the opportunity to aid Maiden Yu. He might not know what the spirit wants from its guests, but if its pure sincerity or determination, he’s quite certain he won’t lose to anyone.
“Young Master! I think I found it!” a senior disciple’s urgent shout pulled Jiang FengMian from his short reverie. With fevered steps, he followed the voice together with the other people from his sect. At length, they came upon a small entrance fit only for one grown adult to pass. Looking at the cave’s mouth to the trees around them, Jiang FengMian crouched down to inspect the flowers by the entryway.
Three-Petaled Mystic Blossoms and Spirit Yew Trees, it’s here.
“All of you, stay here.” Jiang FengMian addressed his fellows while eyeing the dark entrance that betrayed nothing of what lies beyond it despite the early rays of sunlight permeating the place. “The Cave will only allow one person inside at a time. Never force your way in no matter how long I take inside.”
“But Young Master!” called out Zhang Lei, a senior disciple, in distress. “You should let us scout ahead first!”
“No!” Jiang FengMian vehemently refused, not wanting to offend the spirit that is their only chance of getting the herb, startling his companions with his outburst. “Don’t forget what Master Wen said. It’s not a hostile spirit but it’s sensitive.”
The other man seemed like he would argue more but Wei Changze calmly came between them, knowing perfectly well who would eventually win the fight, anyway.
“Young Master, we trust you would come out successful and unscathed.” Despite his misgivings, the servant chose to believe in the young man he followed his whole life. With that much resolve, he can’t fail even if the spirit turned out to be the Jade Emperor. “Please don’t worry about us. We will guard this entrance well.”
“Young lord, we will pray for a favourable outcome for you!” Cangse Sanren has got both fist in front of her as though cheering. Her nervous grey orbs still shone with encouragement, “And don’t worry. Should you fail, there’s still me! Would the spirit in this cave overlook the pure love of this lady for her sworn…sister.”
The first sentence was a welcome motivation but the second one caused the son of the Jiang’s smile to turn cold which made Cangse falter in her words. “…haha…that’s me…shutting up.” And in a small voice she ended with, “Good luck, young lord.”
Did she seriously imply that she loved Big Sister ZiYuan more than the young lord? Did she want to die? Why does she kept coming up with creative ways to ask for death?
Quietly, Cangse punished her troublesome mouth with soft smacks, hoping her show of repentance would earn her a few more days of life.
Rescuing the vibrant young lady from the cold atmosphere, the rest of the purple-robed disciples showered their young master with animated support, looking almost eager to shove their lord to the cave’s small chasm.
After one last inscrutable stare at their sect’s guest that caused chill to accumulate in the party member’s stomachs, the benevolent young lord stepped into the gloomy cavern.
“If the young lord does fail and I come out with the herb in the end, what are the chances that I’ll be assassinated on the way home?”
“Hahahaha, w-what a funny notion, Lady Sanren.” Wei Changze awkwardly laughed as he tried to dispel the terrible images this conjured, getting a handkerchief from his robes to wipe the cold sweat that formed on his forehead. Oh, it looks like his lady needs one, too.
“…And? Mister Wei? The answer?”
“S-shall we divide the groups for the rotation of the patrol?”
Finding the pitying glances of the other young men enough as an answer, Cangse said her prayers. She doesn’t think she has ever wished for anyone’s success so fervently before. “You would at least run away with me if it comes down to it, right?!” she dazedly said at the end of her solemn murmurs.
“Of course, I will, my lady!”
The relief that accompanied the reassurance was hampered by the absurdity of their situation. How is this her life? Isn’t the world outside her master’s mountain more perilous that she had once thought?!
She should have gone to Gusu Lan or Qinghe Nie as a guest cultivator instead!
-0-
Upon stepping into the cave, Jiang FengMian found himself in a circular area with nothing but a small mound of earth in the middle. There’s a faint mist of palpable spiritual energy clinging close to the cave floor. The high walls shimmered faintly to give illumination no matter the time of day. He looked behind him but he couldn’t see anything beyond the entryway but light. He took a few steps before taking a seat in front of the heap of earth and closing his eyes.
He thought he felt the spiritual energy he saw earlier slowly converge around him but Jiang FengMian didn’t dare open his eyes at all.
“What do you seek?” A neutral voice sounded in his ears after a long wait. There’s no feeling to be discerned in it and it’s impossible to tell if it’s male or female.
“The Dragon Spear Herb.” Not caring about anything else, the purple-robed cultivator uttered clearly without opening his eyes.
“Only those I deemed worthy can get what they’re looking for.”
“This one understands.”
“Are you willing to face anything for it?”
Not missing a beat, the Jiang heir answered, “Yes.”
“Very well.”
Suddenly, bright light flooded Jiang FengMian’s dark vision. Steeling himself for what comes next, he drew a deep breath.
He doesn’t remember opening his eyes, but with the fading of the light, Jiang FengMian found himself surrounded by a familiar sight.
The swaying lotus blooms in clear waters, the vibrant violet hue from banners aloft, the scent of succulent flavours his hometown is known for, the feel of the warm sun in the middle of spring. All these are no stranger to him.
It’s Lotus Pier.
Not dropping his guard over what he’s sure to be an illusion, Jiang FengMian stood still for a while before deciding to walk around. He’s not sure what the spirit is demanding from him with this vision.
He got to one of the courtyards when he saw a little girl in purple robes walking ahead of him.
His heart stuttered in his chest at the figure who stopped when he did.
The little girl turned around and instantly smiled softly after perceiving him, her golden eyes kind and modest.
“A-Die!”
Jiang FengMian choked on his breath at the sweet child approaching him before giving a polite salute two steps away from him. Something in him falling in place as though a memory from long ago materialized from where they are staying just beneath the surface of his consciousness.
Taking a deep breath, the quiet voice murmured in hushed disbelief, “…A-Li?”
He immediately kneeled as he numbly reached for the young lady’s cheek with quivering fingertips. “Is this…our A-Li?”
“Yes, A-Die.” Instead of accepting his touch with hints of childish enthusiasm, his daughter, looking like an 8-year-old, stood calmly with a shy smile. Ah, yes, she did act like this. So quiet and serene.
Feeling himself transported back to a life long gone. He couldn’t help but indulge in this make-believe moment of reunion where he can talk to his daughter in what felt like a truly long time. “Did you…just finish with your studies, A-Li?” carving the soft image in his head so that he won’t forget what she looks like ever again, a small, unsure but gentle smile graced the young man’s face.
“Yes, A-Die, I’m on my way to the kitchen to ask Senior Yan to teach me a new recipe. If I did well, I’ll make sure to make A-Die some nice food.”
“Our A-Li is too kind. There’s no need for all this.” The tender upturn of lips widened slightly at the familiarity of her tone, Jiang FengMian caressed the soft crown of her head. Hearing faint laughter from a distance from the children outside the sect, he added, indulging in the role of a father, “You are free to play as well. You earned it, A-Li.”
“But, A-Die…” his daughter’s soft eyes turned downcast as she smiled sadly, “As someone who doesn’t excel in anything, I need to make myself useful in any way I can. I daren’t carelessly spend my time.”
His heart turning cold, Jiang FengMian exclaimed without his usual composure, “A-Li, how can you say such a thing?! There’s no need to prove yourself to anyone! Why would you think you’re inadequate?”
“…A-Die never said otherwise.”
His lips quivering, the hands holding on to dainty shoulders shook even more, Jiang FengMian’s breath stuttered in his core as the young lady smiled apologetically, “Don’t worry, A-Die. I’m not unhappy in the least. My talents might be lacking but I know I can contribute well elsewhere. I shall take care of my brothers with everything I have.”
Her words petrified his body that his arms tremulously fell beside him as he looked at the phantom that looks like his daughter. She kept on her sweet face that same peaceful smile that he saw on his A-Li’s face his whole life. The kind that doesn’t ask for anything more from anyone.
She said that she’s not unhappy, but not that she’s happy either.
She was a child who never demanded attention from either him or his wife and he took it for granted that she’s a child who can manage herself just fine. Had his silence become an admission that he expected nothing from his children? He never thought his daughter was lacking in comparison with other young ladies, but isn’t it true that he never told A-Li that?
What has he ever done for her except break an engagement he thought was unwanted?
“So, A-Die, I will make myself useful and not disturb anyone.” Standing like an angel resigned to merely observe, A-Li continued, “I hope A-Die and A-Niang wouldn’t fight anymore.”
“Ah…you…had to grow up quickly because of me and your mother…” Jiang FengMian bowed his head as he commented with a short, quiet huff of self-derision. He lifted his head again to meet honey-colored eyes, “I never meant to make you continuously hold back, A-Li. A-Die’s sorry.”
Slowly pulling the small figure in his embrace, he whispered through his hurting throat, “I’ll make sure that the next time we meet, you’ll be able to freely express yourself. My daughter is the most beautiful and kindest child there is. Your mother and I…were the luckiest to have you, our A-Li.”
He knew it was foolish to think this illusion to really be his daughter, but he couldn’t stop himself from expressing the words that should have reached this child long ago. Just because she kept her voice low didn’t mean that she had no opinions to express. In order to make sure that the peace in the household was maintained, how much of herself did she have to repress?
Just the thought renewed all the hatred Jiang FengMian had for himself.
“…Then I’ll wait for you, A-Die.”
Feeling there’s something genuine in that response, the purple-clad cultivator hurriedly straightened himself in order to look at his daughter’s face but the moment they separated, A-Li’s figure vanished into a wisp of smoke, leaving behind a distinct scent of blue lotus, the fragrance A-Li usually use on her hair.
Unmoving from his position for a long time, Jiang FengMian drew a deep breath, feeling that this test would truly be a formidable one.
At length, the exuberant barking of puppies could be heard from somewhere and the lone man slowly faced towards the direction where it was coming from, already aware of the image he would see. Despite the trepidation, he found his feet walking steadily to where boyish laughter can be heard playing in the air, his apprehension losing against the elation of seeing the individual surely waiting for him there.
His expectations didn’t betray him at the sight of the lively boy of about five years old playing with three plump spiritual dogs. At the sight of him, bright blue-grey eyes lit up like the sky on a sunny day.
“A-Die!”
His A-Cheng’s delightful call was like music to his ears and after the sad goodbye from his daughter, he realized he needed to hear this from his son.
However, the young lad’s energetic approach halted as though Jiang Cheng remembered something. After wiping the excitement off his little face, he faced his father with as much dignity as his young self can muster and greeted him formally, managing a clumsy salute, “Forgive me, A-Die. I greet A-Die—”
This formality only served to give Jiang FengMian more despair, “No…no…” falling to his knees helplessly, he beckoned his son before he could finish, “A-Cheng, won’t you come to A-Die?”
As though confused at his father’s unusually vulnerable tone, the child shuffled slowly towards the trembling figure.
Once he’s near enough, Jiang FengMian lost no time gathering that precious body close to his. Barely stopping himself from showing a disgraceful sight to the poor boy. Despite being aware that his children shouldn’t be here, that it’s merely a mirage, how can he coldly regard this child when he had already caused him so much pain before?
“A-Die…are you upset with me?”
“No, no, A-Cheng. It’s me who has wronged you.”
The boy obediently stayed in his embrace, even putting a short arm around him to gently pat him on the back. Thinking that his actual son might have waited for him to do this for him before made his heart squeeze painfully in his chest.
There was a soft scent emanating from the perfume pouch around the child’s belt and he nearly sobbed, realizing that he doesn’t remember the scent at all.
I left you alone all this time, A-Cheng.
“A-Die…do you hate me? Everyone says so.” The sudden question, which would normally not find its way out from his disappointed son, pipped out from the lovable boy that made Jiang FengMian tighten his hold just a bit more in sorrow.
“I-I have never hated you, child. How could I, when you’re the most precious—” unable to hold the shameless tears he’s unworthy to shed, fat teardrops fell on top of dark hair.
“Then why has A-Die never told me?”
“Because A-Die is foolish.” Holding on to one supple cheek before letting his son go in order to look at him, “I’m sorry, A-Cheng. I truly am…ah, no…” Peering at innocent blue orbs, he could almost delude himself that there’s warmth in the body he’s holding, “Won’t you wait for A-Die, A-Cheng? Once I really hold you in my arms again, I’ll give you the apology you deserve, son.”
“Will we meet again?”
Jiang FengMian managed a small smile, willing his eyes to stop watering so that he can clearly imprint the image of his A-Cheng in his mind. “Even if I have to go through heaven and hell.”
“With A-Niang and A-Jie?”
“Of course.”
“I’ll wait patiently then!”
“What a good child.” The slight smile valiantly trying to remain on his face disappeared to be replaced by tears as he once again hugged the small figure of his one and only son, “What a good child.” He kept repeating as the phantom slowly disappeared in his arms like YanLi did.
And like before, he kept kneeling as he kept his heart from breaking completely. What right did he have to lament anything when he was the one to squander his chance at happiness before? But if anyone would be willing to hear him out, he wants to say that he truly didn’t mean for things to end up like this. To miss so much of his children’s lives because of his own insecurities. To pass on his disappointment to them over his failing relationship with their mother. For running away from the painful truth that he had a hand in ruining what could have been a happy family by pretending to be a good adopted father.
Even if his wife turned away from him, why did he do the same to her children? Was he truly blind to what he was doing? How had YanLi looked when he told her that her engagement was broken? How did A-Cheng look when he took Wei Ying from Cloud Recesses? Had he told his YanLi that it was Young Master Jin’s loss? Had he ever commended his A-Cheng for a job well done in Gusu?
Clearly facing the results of his own failure, he wants to berate himself over and over again. But despite this, he’s still shameless enough to beg for another chance.
He would truly, truly make things right this time.
So, please…
“ZiYuan.” Like a prayer, his wife’s name fell from his lips.
“Jiang FengMian, what are you doing?”
He expected that she’ll be here, too. In all the memory that has the power to seize his heart, she’s always at the centre.
He slowly raised his head to meet fierce wine-coloured eyes. Her regal bearing, exuding the pride and authority of the mistress of this vast sect, stood a few steps away from her. Upon the sight of his, no doubt, miserable face, this phantom of hers accurately displayed the quiet perplexity and hidden discomfort that his wife would definitely have.
“…what’s happening? Are you in tears?” As though trying very hard not to lower her chin out of sheer principle, the Violet Spider rather awkwardly regarded him, settling for her usual scowl in the end. “Get up before others see you like this.”
Jiang FengMian allowed himself to laugh at this great impersonation of someone he missed too much. He couldn’t even bring himself to feel offended that their forms are being used in this place to test him. He could almost believe they’re real.
“I’m having trouble standing. Won’t you help me, my lady?” he uttered with a small smile, the sad furrow between his brows awaiting her rejection.
However, instead of leaving him to fend for himself, blue-grey eyes saw how his wife stood in silence with an unsure look on her elegant face as though debating with herself. She then looked around them, either in search of a servant who can haul the sect leader to his feet in her stead or to ensure that no one would witness her do an unusual act of kindness.
At length, she crossed the distance that separated them and even held out a clean linen for him.
“What on earth could have reduced you to this? And how come I’m not seeing anyone here?”
Even though her purple eyes refused to meet his any longer, just her close proximity was enough to soothe his battered spirits. Taking her hand instead of the proffered handkerchief, Jiang FengMian pressed his forehead against the back of her hand. He could feel her stiffen but didn’t care for her surprise. This is merely an illusion. He should be forgiven for doing this much.
“Jiang FengMian, what are you doing?!” Yu ZiYuan looked flustered at the uncharacteristic gesture from her husband but no amount of force could make the older man loosen his hold.
Finally straightening his posture, the taller man didn’t hesitate to pull the slender woman into his embrace. “My lady.” He murmured against silky hair, not allowing her liberty. This version of her, in her purple sect uniform and forbidding mien, was something he yearned to see again despite the regrets of that life. “My lady, I…I’ve missed you terribly.”
The tall woman was halted from trying to instinctively twist free from the warm arms surrounding her, “Miss? What is there to miss in this life?” she coldly returned which brought a cascade of ice to his stomach but now. But now, he could clearly tell the pain hidden in the sharp tone. “Finally, you’re free of me. There’s no need to keep this pretence of a marriage. Aren’t you glad you can finally be with the woman you love and have children you’ll want to embrace?”
Gritting his teeth in torment, unable to swallow through a tight throat, he let the knives in her words embed themselves in his conscience. However, he still refused to relinquish his hold. “If I tell you how wrong you were in your conjectures, will you even believe me?”
The woman in his embrace laughed in derision once, “You expect me to believe you?”
“My lady.”
“You never once told me I was wrong. Not when I claimed you love her or that you favour her son over mine. Now you tell me I’m wrong?!”
His face crumpling in remorse. He continued to hear the disdain in her voice, “If you just refuted me once! Just once! I—”
He felt her fists grab the front of his robes despite the minimal distance between them, her fingers quivering in distress, “They called me an unloved wife! They called my children pitiful! They might as well have called me a monster! But would I have bothered with their words if you had said none of it was true?!”
Despite the fresh struggle of the discomposed mistress, the rare tears in her voice now evident, purple sleeves mightily held on.
“I know I’m hard to love! Do you want me to apologize for it?! What exactly have I done wrong? I can’t be her!”
After her outburst, the Violet Spider, as though tired out stopped and merely let her forehead press against his shoulder.
“So, I ruined your life. I ruined my children’s lives, too. I made Wei Ying’s life miserable as well. Everything that passed through my hands ended up destroyed. You were proven right in your distaste. What else do you want me to do?”
“Stop, please, my lady. I never wanted you to be anyone else. None of this was because of you. Please believe me.”
“Then why did we end up like this?”
The truth is that both of them had a hand in the destruction of their relationship. Just because he shouted less and never raised his hand to hit anyone, doesn’t make him faultless. Their marriage wouldn’t have worked through the determination of one individual. Vicious though she might have been in the way she handled her emotions and erroneous in the manner she managed her children, wasn’t she just protecting what else she had left in the only way she knew how in the midst of a bond that filled her with nothing but disappointment? Were they expecting her to let herself be humbled in a household with no one to comfort her? Didn’t he push her towards that direction himself? In this marriage, who was the one who gave up first?
There are countless words that he wished he could have said to her before they ended up like this. But what use is there when they already lost everything that held them together? He’s grappling desperately at nothing. But like a lunatic, he wants to insist on all the things that could keep them tethered to one another.
“I’m sorry.” He started, the liquid continuously marring his eyes cascading quietly down his cheeks, “I’m sorry, ZiYuan. No matter what, I should have held on to this relationship. Even without pride or composure, I should have let the words leave me. Even if they would have seemed like pathetic excuses to you, I should have told you again and again the things I was feeling. I should have held on to you.”
When she didn’t utter anything in response, he added, “If I could, I would want to get everything back and do it right. Even if I turn to become the most shameless existence, I would stay by your side.”
There was a soft disbelieving chuckle from the woman in his arms and, after a long while, his wife lightly separated them in order to look at him squarely. The red-rimmed eyes and remaining tear tracks on her face were clear evidence of her usually hidden grief. There’s a mocking smile on her lips as she snidely remarked, “Why don’t you prove your words and stay with me then?” her purple eyes clearly showing how sure she is of his rejection.
The crumpled brows over melancholic blue-grey eyes bravely peered at fiery eyes that expect nothing from him. Without breaking eye-contact, he took hold of one of the hands gripping his shoulders to press a tender kiss at the back of slim fingers.
“ZiYuan…I vowed to myself that I won’t let you go this time. If a proof of longing is necessary, I’m confident I can show it to you for the rest of my life. I’ve never been prepared to let you leave my side… I want to love you right.”
But not here, not in mere imaginings. There’s so much he could do for her now, so much he could show her.
…therefore, I must go…
After a while of her quiet regard, hesitant fingers finally caressed him back. Willowy fingertips touched one cheek; still wet from the tears he shed. Her brows meeting over uncertain amethyst orbs. She even showed a short, confused smile, “What…are you even saying?”
“Please just wait for me, my lady. I’ll come to you myself.”
As her image slowly disappears right in front of him, azure gaze never wavered from her face, at least, grateful that he got to see her, even in this way.
Strangely enough, the scent she left behind is not one of white lotus that he knew she used back when she was in Lotus Pier but that of lilac.
The scent she uses now.
-0-
“Little Yuan!”
“Little YuanYuan!”
“A-Jie!”
Bleary eyes opened to hear the concerned calls of her siblings and despite the darkness that fills her non-existent sight, Yu ZiYuan could almost see the worried countenance of her audience. Slowly, she raised herself into a sitting position. Upon feeling the disgraceful wet trails cascading down her cheeks, shaking fingers slowly came up to wipe them away.
“Oh, thank goodness!” one Yu ZiHan expressed her relief that their Little YuanYuan woke up as she pressed a clean linen against their youngest sister’s dim eyes, “You started crying in your sleep! We were so anxious!”
“Had you a nightmare, Little Yuan?” Yu ZhiLan combed through the lose stresses that fell over her third sister’s beautiful but subdued face.
“A nightmare?” Yu ZiYuan, despite being visually impaired, seemed to be looking at something far away. Was it a nightmare? Should she call it that? She kept seeing visions of him no matter. Now, she can even be a little honest in her sentiments that she could cry at him. How foolish.
The Third Young Lady of Meishan Yu sighed with a bit of self-reproach. She could have spoken a little more amicably. Where in blazes did her senses leave for that she uncharacteristically lost her composure? Why even ask him to stay with her? What was she thinking? She nearly rendered undone all her hard work so far. But isn’t it his fault for acting odd as well? What was he even doing crying like that?
Well, it’s just a dream…
This dream was a little too vivid however.
That he would utter words she had been yearning for him to say.
“Was it a truly bad dream, Third Sister?” Yu HongHui fretfully clutched the blanket around his lovely sister’s feet.
‘I want to love you right.’ Huh.
Despite the demonic poison still plaguing her, her heart strangely feels lighter.
“It was…alright.”
-0-
Nine days after they went away, Wen Chuali finally saw the return of the Yunmeng Jiang sect’s accomplished heir. Based on their windswept appearance and the following sect member’s near-death pallor, it’s evident that they didn’t even return to Yunmeng to refresh themselves and went straight to Meishan with little to no rest.
Personally handing out an elongated jade box used to transport priceless, fresh herbs, the young Jiang heir has got a sombre look on his face. Observing the handsome face before going to the Dragon Spear Herb carefully cradled in the jade box, the kindly doctor asked sagely, “How was it?”
As though recalling memories that gave him both pleasure and heartache, a wan smile graced the future sect leader of Yunmeng Jiang.
“It’s truly…quite an irreplaceable experience.” Returning the elder’s astute gaze, the purple-robed young master saluted the man in front of him, “I thank you for letting me undertake this task, Master Wen. I shall pray for your success in making the cure. Please don’t hesitate to ask me for anything else you need.” The images he must have seen while in the cave continues to swirl in a blurred whirlpool in his subconsciousness, only leaving the strong sentiments he felt, not allowing him to forget those instead. The yearning to see Maiden Yu burns through his veins but he fisted his hands to rein it all in. He just needs to be patient for a few more.
No one knows the standard the spirit of the Mystique Cave abides by when testing its visitors but from what the old healer could tell, it’s mostly guided by either courage, resolution, repentance, desperation or affection. Especially in connection to the reason they need the herb they are seeking. Whatever the case may be, this should be a testament to the young man’s genuine sentiments towards his student.
Looking rather favourably on this particular suitor, the great doctor inclined his head a little and proceeded to go inside the room he borrowed from Sect Leader Yu. With all the ingredients at hand, there’s no reason to dally anymore.
He should immediately help his lovely student get her sight back.
Not only can she help him set all these silly rascals straight, she can also help bring the light back in their gloomy stares.
-0-
Their heads gracelessly plastered on the stone table, their souls halfway out of their mouths in exhaustion, several young men in the famous purple sect robes were vehemently refusing the grim reaper sweetly calling out their names as they waited for their demonic dependable young lord to come back.
When they heard the sound of footsteps coming nearer, Zhang Lei, the most senior of them raised his heavy, tremulous body in order to look at Wei Changze, who seemed to have lost half his face in the course of nine days, as he approached with an elderly servant from Meishan Yu.
“Brother Zhang, Sect Leader Yu has prepared a courtyard for us. Please lead the juniors to rest.” The expiring voice of the attendant croaked, making the servant from Meishan Yu eye him pitifully before going to the living corpses littering this pavilion.
Asking for more people from the sect for help, they guided the miserable disciples to a place where they can die a lot more peacefully.
Halfway to ascending already, Zhang Lei still didn’t forget to inquire about their young lord, “What of the young master? Has he gone to rest?”
If only it was the easy. Wei Changze wants to weep at his fate of having a love-enslaved young master driving him to an early grave. The brown-eyed attendant shook his head piteously. “He’s waiting for the medicine to be made.”
Feeling a bit more revived due to concern, Zhang Lei implored, “No need for the young master to remain here and wait for the remedy. Let him know that we’re willing to wait in his stead.”
“Young Master said that he’ll do it himself.”
“But that’s a servant’s job! What will happen to the young master’s dignity?”
“Dignity?” Wei Changze looked on pitifully at first before deciding to open the lad’s eyes to the truth of the world. Are they still wondering about this? He could have sworn it was obvious for all and sundry to see. With much solemnity, he explained, “You see, brother, about dignity. The young master thought it was edible…”
“And fed it to the dogs.” Cangse Sanren mercilessly concluded, resurfacing from where she buried her head on the table. Evidently still not forgetting that baleful stare their young lord threw at her before.
“…”
“If he’s going to be like this then he should just propose already! That psychotic, wicked young lord! Even if he thinks, and he’s right, by the way, that everyone is enamoured with my Big Sister ZiYuan, would glaring at me solve anything?! For what reason have I given it my all to bet on this black horse to win the race? This one has contributed a lot for this alliance! The only thing the young lord is good at is pining for my sworn sister!”
“Lady Sanren.”
“But is that the young lord’s fault? Of course, it isn’t! My Big Sister ZiYuan is dazzling and she needs someone like the young lord by her side. Someone who appreciates her regal persona and will complement her majestic mien! That’s our young lord! Capable, steadfast, loyal and endearing! Isn’t the young lord one of the most handsome cultivators as well? Isn’t it just perfect for my big sister?!”
“Lady Sanren.” Jiang FengMian called out serenely for the second time and the young lady faced her audience as though she just noticed his presence.
“Oh, young lord! I was just expressing my honest conjectures about the harmonious image you and Big Sister ZiYuan would make!” Talk of devil and he shall appear! Damn it! How much of the first part did he hear? Should she start running in the direction of her master’s mountain? Sweating buckets, the rogue cultivator prayed to the high heaven’s that her treacherous mouth will never be passed on to any of her future children! She’s beginning to question whether it’s the young lord or this gaping hole in her head that is actually making her life so difficult.
“Lady Sanren is truly articulate.” Obviously filtering out anything that wasn’t in support of his affectionate heart for his lady, Jiang FengMian readily accepted the heaps of praise from their guest.
In the background, Zhang Lei and Wei Changze merely bowed their heads in contrition, internally apologetic to the young lady for not being able to warn her of the sudden appearance of their master. But he just popped out of nowhere!
Frankly speaking, they couldn’t fault her for the first half of her tirade. What wrong did she commit except to verbalize what all of them feel? But as they are all aware, at the end of the tiring day, the young lord is still who they had set their allegiance with.
He might indeed be the devil but he is their devil. However much they cry about it, it's the unfortunate truth!! It’s not as if they could go back to the time before they entered the sect! Not to mention, wherever they go, they would still encounter a young master longing for the madam! Let us all just die together then!
-0-
Despite his decision to wait for the pill that would give back the light in his beloved lady’s bright eyes, Jiang FengMian still ended up dragged to bed by orders of none other than Sect Leader Yu. The older man thinking that he can’t very well let the heir of one of the Five Great Sects faint with exhaustion in his home.
The young lad, reflecting that he can’t allow himself look so stubborn in the eyes of his future-in-law, asked the overseeing attendant to wake him once Master Wen is finished with his pill refining.
Fortunately, the great doctor was still in seclusion when Jiang FengMian woke up the day after.
He would have liked to visit Maiden Yu’s courtyard if not for the news that the lady is refusing visitation in order to rest. He could hardly force his way without good reason, despite whatever he might prefer. The sensible young heir decided to guard the entrance to Master Wen’s makeshift Medicinal Hall, glad that none of his lady’s suitors or other sworn siblings seems to be aware that the pill is underway.
He was just about to enter meditation as he waits when he was again thwarted by a courteous request to dine with the sect leader and his family. Jiang FengMian contemplated a while, a little regretful that he has nothing else to offer the esteemed family as thanks for their invitation.
He accepted nonetheless and followed the servant to the Meishan Yu’s family dining pavilion. Unlike Yunmeng Jiang’s Dining Pavilion’s airy and open space, the wide, enclosed venue looked a little stern. The dark wood panelling with its golden accents, high, ornate ceiling, and exquisite pingfengs made for a grand site.
Instead of small tables for each individual, they have a large round table that is big enough to seat ten people. The intimidating but strangely intimate room sums up the family’s character and the Jiang heir smiled a little in spite of the small disappointment of not espying a certain young lady in the dining area.
Yu Guiren, upon seeing their guest, inclined his head politely despite not getting up, “Young Master Jiang, thank you for lending us your time. We realized that we had not been generous enough in our welcome. I hope you’ll forgive our oversight.”
Saluting respectfully to the elder, the famed heir of Yunmeng Jiang perfectly relayed the necessary formalities, thanking them for their magnanimity and disclaiming the lack of attention.
Smiling at the other’s flawless demeanour, Sect Leader Yu offered him the seat beside him, unaware of the young man’s slight nervousness and determination to please.
As though able to see through him, the second miss of the family addressed him smilingly, mere minutes of digging into the scrumptious cuisine, “Young Master Jiang, we heard that you travelled for long just to get our Little YuanYuan such a rare herb. How can we ever make it up to you?”
“Please, Madame Feng, there’s no need to speak of this. No distance is too far if it’s able to be of help.”
“I thought I saw your sect’s disciples with one foot in the grave. I hope they managed to survive?” Yu ZhiLan queried after, earning Madame Yu’s call of warning for her choice of words.
“I apologize for worrying Madame Zhang. My fellows are still in need of training and was unable to handle the journey with grace.”
“It’s not advisable to feed someone more than they can chew, I’d say.”
“That is very true. I am still lacking in order to satisfactorily lead my companions, causing the madam to worry. I shall always bear it in mind. However, I also believe that without pushing a little further, no one can know the actual distance they are able to traverse.”
The two young madams nodded minutely, a little begrudging at the young man’s unflustered comebacks. He’s showing grace, kindness, a willingness to admit his wrongs but strength in reiterating his beliefs. He’s not so simple, they thought.
After a few more discourse, the talks went to the demon the young heir recently vanquished.
“To think that you went through all the trouble to save our ZiYuan. What tribulation you must have endured.” Madame Yu evenly asserted, her domineering purple eyes expressing approval but not warmth, not losing to her three daughters’ strong spirit. “We can’t thank you enough, Young Master Jiang.”
“It is I who received help from Maiden Yu.” The gentleman returned deftly, a cordial smile gracing the serene features, “It would have been beyond me had it not been for her.”
Due to the reserved nature of the two people involved, no one really knows how the two young cultivators managed to kill an adult demon when one of them had their meridians sealed. People could only glean the fight from the wounds suffered by the opposing parties.
“How generous of you to share your achievement with our daughter.”
“Please, Madame Yu. I am not given to false modesty. I only say it as is. Despite the disadvantages she was suffering from, Maiden Yu aided me and even guided me in defeating that demon. I daresay I would not be sitting here now if it hadn’t been for her.”
Silently taken aback by the determined endorsement, Madame Yu smiled a little at last, “I knew my daughter would never let herself be a burden. I didn’t wish to pry but I’m grateful for Young Master Jiang being forthcoming with this.”
“Not at all, Madame Yu. It is anyone’s honor to be able to fight with Maiden Yu. I merely feel fortunate to be bestowed of the chance.” With this, the handsome young master smiled with such endearingly sweet brilliance that the normally austere family was showered with bright rays of blinding devotion.
It’s to no one’s surprise that the youngest in the room, Young Master Yu, who was falling asleep all over his rice bowl from the late night of keeping vigil for his dearest big sister despite his elders’ protest, suddenly piped up in careless annoyance, “What? What? Someone, close the windows! Why is it suddenly too bright in here?”
-0-
They were still in the middle of dining when an attendant came in to announce that Master Wen has just come out of the pill refining room. With a whirlwind of actions, the genteel young lord gave a perfunctory goodbye to his host before sprinting out of the room leaving several dumbfounded gazes behind him.
Madame Feng, who was also halfway out of her seat after hearing the good news, queried with a bit of amused exasperation, “Is there perchance a competition going on of who can show how desperately concerned they are for Little YuanYuan?”
“If there is, you have no way of winning Han-er.” Admitted Madame Zhang, dark eyes trained outside as though chasing the figure that disappeared in an instant.
And truly, Yu ZiHan can only nod to that.
“We have quite the formidable suitor here, I’d say.” Madame Yu solemnly stated and her husband, to his chagrin, sharply detected the hint of approval blooming there.
Sect Leader Yu, in a would-be calm tone, harrumphed and replied sedately as he, too, along with the rest of the family, slowly got up to follow the faithful gentleman from Yunmeng, “It all depends on Yuan-er.” If they are going to act like this, why did that insufferable Jiang Haoran refused him when he had hinted on a marriage alliance with his third daughter? Now look at what your son is trying to show me! Hmph, you’ll have to get my Yuan-er’s approval this time!
With the bold steps of a seeming victor, the distinguished sect leader went out of the room.
His daughter truly showed them all!
On the other hand, the hurrying young master managed to catch the good doctor on his way to his student’s courtyard. The tired-looking physician has a sagely smile on his face as he saw the agitated look on the young man’s face. Without another word, the healer gave Jiang FengMian a small nondescript jade bottle, “Here, you may inform Little Yuan that I succeeded first. I shall follow along to give her an acupuncture before she takes it. Young Master Jiang might as well be my messenger.”
Flustered at the other’s success, the Jiang heir took the bottle gratefully, gave the elder a polite salute and, not minding the task befitting of a servant, made haste towards the courtyard of Meishan Yu’s Third Lady.
Ruefully gazing at the cloud of dust disappearing into the distance, Wen Chuali wondered if he should have asked the young man to carry him as well. The way the other was going, he wouldn’t have refused. Now he has to traverse the expansive road in his lonesome. He should be smarter about this next time.
Shortly, the purple-robed young master arrived at the elegant courtyard that nearly everyone in their generation wishes to visit at least once or twenty. At a distance, he saw Cangse Sanren followed by Wei Changze running with relieved smiles on their faces.
However, before they can even reach the normally patient young lord, said lord already rushed inside and asked for an audience with the beloved owner of the place to one of the servants waiting outside.
After a few minutes that felt like forever, he was given permission to enter, delivered by a respectful Yinzhu. But despite the wait, black boots didn’t budge from the bottom of the short stairs leading to the entrance.
Trying and failing to rein in the curiosity towards the lack of movement, the maid surreptitiously raised her chin a little to look at the notable gentleman from Yunmeng. She thought he appeared hesitant and nervous; his blue-grey eyes trained at the door as though desperately hoping for a glimpse of the lady beyond. So why is he not going?
Before she could entreat the young master to step inside, the tender tone reached her, “How has Maiden Yu been? I hope the poison did not affect her appetite? Does she sleep well at night?” It’s the first time he’s seeing Yu ZiYuan after the visions of her he is certain he had seen in the Mystique Cave. He’s currently hard at work in calming his nerves and settling his spirits. He could feel something in him urging him to do things that would be questionable considering the current state of their acquaintance. It wouldn’t do if he suddenly barrels his lady with a hug out of nowhere. Maiden Yu also wouldn’t take kindly to unexpected tears.
Yinzhu, for her part, can’t very well feel impatient at the other’s show of concern for her beloved mistress so she composedly and briefly answered the questions, hiding the small smile on her lips by bowing her head deeper.
The young master, finally finding his courage, deaf to the two newly-arrived pair voicing their complaints at being left behind, stepped towards the door slowly opened by Jinzhu.
It’s a good thing Changze was there since someone managed to promptly halt the rogue cultivator’s instinctual call for her sworn sister. Forgive me, my lady, but let this servant save both our lives since we’re determined to watch this romance unfold nonetheless. His apologetic gaze met the pair of grey eyes not smothered by his palm. Cangse merely nodded her head in understanding, feeling death pass over her by a hair’s breath away. It really is this unreliable mouth that’ll be the death of her! Good thing Mister Wei still cares for her.
Inside the bright and sophisticated quarters, a little further into the room, near an open window, sitting in front of a large embroidered screen showing an exquisite pond of lotus flowers, sat the Purple Spider. With her long, silky straight hair freely flowing behind her, nary a touch of powder on her soft, jade-like skin and wearing simple robes in gentle shades of lilac, Yu ZiYuan’s faded eyes were trained emotionlessly outside. This was the most unadorned image of her he had the privilege of witnessing and he can’t believe anyone can have the right to such beauty. If only her vibrant eyes can retrieve their resplendent hue.
Upon perceiving his entrance, bold eyes found him. Her sightlessness not diminishing the sharp edge of her stare. Slender fingertips then let go of their hold around a teacup on the round mahogany table in front of her and the tall figure sedately stood up to greet her guest. “Young Master Jiang, I was told you have a message from my master. Thank you for going through the trouble. You should have let the servants handle it.” Not waiting for his reply, she sat back down and gestured for him to join her at the table.
Not taking his eyes off the statuesque woman, the gentleman took a seat beside her with a small smile, taking in the details of her face, ensuring that she suffered no further harm since last they met.
His scrutiny must have gone on for quite a while since her placid countenance soon gradually turned to a frown, still waiting for him to speak.
Yu ZiYuan can’t understand why her former husband refuses to open that irritatingly obliging mouth now of all times. She’s been trying to wrestle with her usual impatience and managed to gather a semblance of calm when they announced his visit. But he took too long before coming inside and even now, he’s dawdling. She’s fervently hoping her newly-found composure won’t fail her at this time.
Did he perhaps injure his throat during the last debacle without her noticing and people forgot to inform her? Then, for some reason, her last dream of him in tears resurfaced in her mind, making her considerably upset. It can’t be, he isn’t crying, is he?! Her brashness getting the better of her, before she could think twice, a soft hand briskly flew to check if the cheeks of a certain young master remain dry or not.
She hasn’t even cradled the sculpted cheek of her previous life’s spouse for a full moment when the warmth of the firm skin suddenly disappeared to be replaced by cold air while a resounding hard thud reverberated throughout the room.
The rapid turn of events surprising even her, Yu ZiYuan’s hand remains petrified in the cold space where her guest should be. She could feel that he’s now on the floor by her feet.
What her unseeing eyes failed to show was the vivid crimson colour all over the normally tranquil cultivator’s face, reaching to his neck. A slightly quavering fist covering his mouth as he looked up at the typically cold lady.
Recognizing the audacity of her actions, the Third Young Lady of Meishan Yu Sect grimaced at her stupidity, coloring a little. What was she thinking? When will her pathetic memory retain the fact that this man doesn’t appreciate her touch? She addressed the bundle of purple robes on her bedroom floor, “I-I apologize, Young Master Jiang.”
Their audience to this fiasco, namely Wei Changze and her the two loyal Meishan Yu maids, dazedly regarded the couple in the distance.
Conversely, it’s a good thing that the servant’s solid hand is still on the white-robed lady cultivator’s mouth, otherwise Cangse would have joined the young lord on the floor while laughing herself silly. The devil was felled by a touch! Her Big Sister ZiYuan is too powerful!
The Yunmeng Jiang aide, on the other hand, can’t watch this without blushing himself, just a tad more collected that his flustered master still sitting on the ground. Please don't be sorry, Madame. I'm sure my young master is already regretting his surprise and is eager for a repeat.
Remembering the gallant form of this same lord as he soared through the chilling wind not even two days ago while carrying the valuable herb for the lady he loves, he can’t quite reconcile it with the flushed young man who can’t seem to carry his own weight to get back to his seat. Love is truly formidable. Why not? What else can reduce their family’s respectable child to this?!
Young Master, are you going to be a bold husband or a timid wife? Why don’t you stick to one?!
-0-
BONUS:
A nondescript looking man wearing a ghost mask with a woeful smile entered the luxurious room and kneeled in front of a tall man wearing maple-red robes lounging casually among a dense pile of cushions.
“My Lord, you’re back. How was the recent visitor you had at the cave?”
“Mmmm.” The one red eye not hidden by an eye-patch looked down on his hand, a seemingly cold but playful smile on his lips, “My little visitor has got quite the unique circumstance.”
Letting the rest of the story remain unsaid unless volunteered by his master, Yin Yu decided not to pry further when he saw the wispy orbs dancing near one of the Ghost King’s hands. He couldn’t help but murmur “Souls?” they don’t seem to be wandering spirits. What are these innocent little things doing in this realm?
Not moving his gaze away, the beautiful man chuckled, “Rather pretty, aren’t they? Nothing like gege, of course.”
“Did you have to summon them due to your last visitor?” How odd. His master has never done it before for the very few people who had gone to the Mystique Cave and had to be examined. Usually, he just pries into their minds a little, to determine whether they’re decent or an absolute waste of space.
“I unwittingly summoned three, but one of them has a physical body.” recalling the unusual vision he had to see earlier, Hua Cheng became a little contemplative, “She has the blessing of the Divine Vermillion Bird. It’s a first even for me.”
“It sounds quite the interesting affair.”
Despite the slightly entertained look on the charismatic face, his free hand waved dismissively, swatting the air in negation, “What could possibly be interesting in the silly affairs of humans? Royalty, merchants, peasants or even immortal cultivators - they all dabble in the inane, regret their actions, and wish for another chance. They can’t seem to grow the brains to realize that they only get one life and a limited amount of time.”
“And, yet, now and again, they can be interesting enough to warrant the attention of the Heavens.” The kneeling man quietly replied with a faint smile. His master should know. He’s married to someone who intrigued the Heavenly Order enough and proved himself worthy that he ascended to godhood three times.
Smirking at his attendant’s words, knowing who the words pertain to, “My gege is one of a kind.”
Bowing his head deeper in agreement, Yin Yu uttered after a while, “My Lord, souls need to be returned to the Celestial River that they might follow their orders in accordance to Fate. Master Xie Lian would lament should they fail their predestination.”
Finally gazing at the man before him, Crimson Rain Sought Flower smirked chillingly, “Are you threatening me?”
“I dare not.”
Not pursuing the topic any further, the Ghost King raised the hand cradling the two clear souls that he feels would find their path to the mortal world soon, letting them fly pass slender fingers. Silver wraith butterflies accompanied them for safety.
Seeing this, the servant let out the inconspicuous breath he was holding. Far be it for his master to torment pure, blameless beings, he wasn’t known for his capricious temper for no reason.
The souls now out of sight, he commented to the man still looking at the distance, “I see that you’re still keeping the Mystique Cave.”
“Gege likes it when I help others. I make it so the accumulated karma goes to him so I rather like it.” His Dianxia is the only reason he would even do such a thing so it’s only fitting. The few mortals who knew of the cave also kept the warnings in mind and not spread the word too far. One or two visitors every few years is not that taxing to his patience. Those so-called precious herbs are also nothing to an actual immortal like him.
“Master Xie Lian would also surely find your new story interesting.”
One ruby eye softening, the Supreme Ghost smiled genuinely at last, “He would. I should go to him now.” With that, the devilishly handsome man stood up and strode towards the door.
If there’s anything his one true god likes above all else, it’s cases of repentance, redemption, and love.