Chapter 398: Heaven Grade, High Quality! (Requesting Monthly Tickets)

Chapter 398: Supreme Grade! (Please vote for the monthly ticket)

Wang Li-xing and the others halted, turning back to look.

They beheld a figure of extraordinary allure approaching—Lou Guan, one of the three household managers of Xiao’s mansion.

Her appearance, though refined, paled beside Xiao Wan-er, Xiao Jing-hong, and Lou Yu-xue.

—A pair of peach blossom eyes, bright and colorful, with a beauty mole at the corner, perfectly accentuating her delicate, enchanting face.

As for her allure…

It was likely akin to the wind-swept beauty of Lou Yu-xue—ample in the right places, exquisite in detail, and perfectly proportioned.

She moved with a swaying gait, each step a mesmerizing undulation, her figure so delicate that one dared not meet her gaze.

Even the lead manager, Lou Guan, averted his eyes, staring at her nose and chin like a sage who had attained the Dao.

Beside him, Qin Xiu-cheng, upon seeing the newcomer, turned his head and introduced her to Wang Li-xing, then hurried forward to greet her with a bow:

“Master Tang, you’ve arrived swiftly.”

The disciples of Wind and Rain Building followed suit, bowing as well. “Why didn’t Master Tang come with Master Shui?”

The woman named Tang Hua-she, upon arrival, glanced around the courtyard, her gaze lingering on the Spring Lotus Garden.

As she surveyed, she spoke: “Master Shui is still entangled elsewhere. I’ve come to meet those of Xiao’s household.”

“We’ll be staying here for a while, so it’s best not to be too bold.”

Qin Xiu-cheng smiled, stepping aside: “Master Tang’s arrival is timely. We were about to pay respects to the Xiao family’s ladies.”

Tang Hua-she withdrew her gaze, nodding slightly to Wang Li-xing and Lou Guan: “Your assistance is appreciated.”

Lou Guan, with a dismissive nod, gestured: “Master Tang, please, come with me.”

As they began to lead the group to the Garden of Prosperous Virtue, Xiao Wan-er had already arrived with Shen Hua-tang, Xie Ting-yun, and others at the entrance.

Upon seeing her, Tang Hua-she’s eyes flickered over Shen Hua-tang and Xie Ting-yun, then she bowed gracefully: “Tang Hua-she of Wind and Rain Building has the honor of meeting Miss Xiao.”

Xiao Wan-er stepped forward, helping her up: “Master Tang, you need not be so formal.”

“My younger sister mentioned in her letter that you all share the same sect. When you come, consider yourselves as family.”

Tang Hua-she’s lips curved into a faint smile: “I apologize for the intrusion.”

She then nodded to Shen Hua-tang and Xie Ting-yun: “The Xianzi of Mount Tai, Ting-yun, long awaited this moment.”

Xie Ting-yun, upon hearing this, stood upright with dignity, bowing respectfully: “Master Tang, your name is renowned across the Central Plains. I’ve heard of you in the Western Regions.”

“No need for such praise. The world is full of kind hearts.”

After a few polite words, Xiao Wan-er invited everyone into the Garden of Prosperous Virtue, speaking as they walked:

“Recently, our Xiao family has faced many hardships. My younger sister had no choice but…”

Her voice grew distant.

Chen Yi immediately averted his gaze, whispered a command to Xiao Biao, and returned to the wooden pavilion’s study chamber.

He had heard of Tang Hua-she before, knew her to be a fellow disciple of Shui He-tong and the third master of Wind and Rain Building.

Above them stood the great master Qin Shang-chi, second master Pu Ji-chuan—all disciples of the “White Immortal” Bai De.

“As a senior of Shui He-tong, her cultivation and techniques should surpass his, shouldn’t they?”

Chen Yi mused silently for a moment, then dipped his brush in ink, unfurling three sheets of cypress paper.

He wrote swiftly, his brush dancing like a dragon and snake, not seeking precision.

In no time, the cypress paper bore the likeness of a cultivated youth in robes—his own visage.

After completing one painting, he moved to the second, then the third…

In half a shi, Chen Yi finished three paintings.

He set down his brush, paused briefly, then let his internal energy stir, drawing the celestial and terrestrial qi onto the paper.

In an instant, the paper glowed faintly.

The three identical portraits, though clad in different garments, began to stir.

The first painting’s Chen Yi said: “Xiao Biao, my betrothed is weary. I decline all visitors today.”

The second painting’s Chen Yi said: “Xiao Biao, I wish to view books in the study. Please do not disturb me later.”

The third painting’s Chen Yi…

Before he could examine them closely, Chen Yi waved his hand, rolling up the three paintings. A sigh escaped him.

As his painting skill grew more refined, so too did his depictions of face and form, bordering on the real.

Yet to deceive a warrior of the upper three-tiered realm, one must not allow close scrutiny—otherwise, the illusion would shatter.

Such was the limit.

Chen Yi had no choice but to prepare in advance—after all, one cannot evade or hide from such matters forever.

Sleeping, reading, or playing Go—depending on the next day’s affairs—it was unwise to let anyone draw near.

Especially someone as formidable as Tang Hua-she.

Folding the scrolls, Chen Yi glanced at the sky outside the window, reclining in his chair, abandoning his cultivation of the Four Symbols Art.

“Thankfully, my betrothed is away, or I might not have had time tomorrow.”

But then again…

Xiao Jing-hong had not returned. Chen Yi felt a different worry, hoping that Xiao Laotai would receive the letter and respond.

“Wind and Rain Building’s arrival—our Xiao family is safe, for now. That’s a blessing.”

“Next, only the matter of Song Jin-jian remains.”

Chen Yi sat motionless, his gaze drifting southward toward the Spring Lotus Garden, his brow slightly furrowed, thinking silently:

“He won’t reveal himself… I must find a way to force him to appear.”

“Pu Yong-lin?”

“Not suitable.”

A man who had ordered the deaths of the “Little Lord” Hua Wei-yang and the Shu Province official Ma Shu-han, his own reputation tainted—Song Jin-jian and the forces behind him, the Ji Province merchants and the Cui family of Qinghe, had a million ways to distance themselves from the affair.

After much thought, Chen Yi’s brow remained furrowed: “Then there’s only her left.”

If Song Jin-jian were hiding so deeply, he would not resort to such a measure.

But now, the situation in Shu Province had recently improved. He truly dreaded stirring up more trouble here.

After all, Song Jin-jian had set his sights on Xiao Jing-hong himself.

Thinking this, Chen Yi’s mind’s chessboard stirred.

Having made a decision, he naturally intended to make detailed arrangements.

A short while later.

After the chessboard in Chen Yi’s mind finally reached its conclusion, he let out a slight breath.

Chen Yi knew that Song Jin Jian was entrusted with a heavy responsibility in Shuzhou. If one wished to draw him out, ordinary people could never manage it.

Pei Yonglin was no match, and neither were the Cui family in Shuzhou, nor the merchants from Jizhou. Even the disguised envoys from the Sui Kingdom, hidden within Shuzhou, would prove useless in compelling Song Jin Jian to comply.

Thus, after much thought, he concluded that only Cui Qingwu could earn Song Jin Jian’s attention and potentially stir danger.

Though…

Cui Qingwu was, after all, the daughter-in-law of Chen Yunfan, who had yet to cross his threshold.

One must not look upon a monk’s face nor a Buddha’s visage too hastily.

Chen Yi, in considering the matter, had to take Chen Yunfan’s feelings into account, lest he commit an oversight and invite unnecessary trouble.

“Only I can be in disgrace to my elder brother.”

Chen Yi mused, rising to the window, gazing out upon the autumn scene of the Spring Lotus Garden.

The sun had dipped low in the west.

The sky blazed with hues of crimson and gold, yet within the garden, a chilling palette prevailed.

Yellowed leaves drifted on the breeze, the grasses swayed, and the pond rippled.

Occasionally, a golden koi leapt from the water, spewing a few droplets toward the pavilion—surely hoping to find someone there who would not welcome their presence.

Chen Yi watched this spectacle, a faint smile touching his lips.

“I still prefer such days.”

The clamor of battle and strife did not suit him.

Yet there were always those who refused to let him live in peace.

Alas, what could he do?

As he pondered, his ear twitched. His eyes caught a figure outside the window, tip-toeing to grasp the bell. He let out a hollow laugh.

“This tiger cub is up to mischief again.”

Indeed.

Pei Qianlu burst from beside him, smearing a grotesque face upon her palm: “Aaaah!”

Chen Yi remained unmoved, asking, “Has your sparring with Wu Ge reached its conclusion?”

Pei Qianlu patted her cheek, clearly annoyed at failing to startle Chen Yi, pouting, “Wu Ge is still practicing pillar skills. I have something to discuss with you, brother.”

Chen Yi arched an eyebrow. “What is it? Want to go out for a walk?”

These days, Pei Qianlu had stayed within Houfu, rarely venturing forth. Chen Yi could think of no reason she’d return.

“No, no.”

She tapped the bell at her chest. “Xiao Hua says my brother has come to the mansion, wishing to see him.”

Xiao Hua.

A spirit beetle from the mountain tribe, transmitted through Pei Qianlu.

Chen Yi considered, nodded, and said, “Then go ahead.”

The mountain tribe arrived later than he had anticipated. It was likely for Pei Yonglin’s sake.

Or perhaps Pei Qian was here to find the one who had slain Hua Yingyang.

Yet Pei Qianlu laughed, pointing at him: “Not just me—my brother also wishes to meet… Liu Wu.”

Upon hearing the last two words, Chen Yi paused. “Truly?”

Pei Qianlu nodded. “My brother says it was Grandmother’s wish, hoping to see that person.”

Chen Yi thought for a moment, then said, “What time?”

Perfect. He needed a flawless “killer.”

Pei Qian and his companions were just the ones.

Pei Qianlu replied, “At noon tomorrow, my brother says to meet at the previous camp.”

Chen Yi slightly bowed, then signaled for her to fetch Xiao Wu Ge, preparing to wash up and eat supper.

Pei Qianlu obeyed, bounding away with youthful energy.

Ting-ting, ting-ting…

Watching her cheerful demeanor, Chen Yi sighed inwardly, “How long can I keep this up?”

“This child…”

Chen Yi understood. Pei Qianlu behaved obediently before him, yet her nature was untamed, reckless.

If she knew of Pei Yonglin’s deeds, none could guess what she might do.

In terms of impulsiveness, this tiger cub was unparalleled in his experience.

Compared to Liu Rong, she was even slightly more impressive.

At that moment, Xiao Duo arrived, panting. “Master, the younger mistress sent us to visit the Xiaoying Garden for supper.”

“She mentioned a few guests arrived, so it’ll be more lively tonight.”

Chen Yi came to his senses, smiling, nodding, and ordered her to prepare fresh clothes for Xiao Wu Ge.

He likewise returned to his chambers, securing the new paintings, then changed into fine robes.

The Wind and Rain Tower would see visitors eventually; he must meet them.

Though he wondered if Wei and Tong had spoken to Tang Huansha about his affairs.

Chen Yi shook his head inwardly. It mattered not—he could not reveal such things.

The more who knew his identity, the greater the risk of exposure.

He must remain vigilant.

After all, staying hidden served his purposes better.

Not long after, Chen Yi, accompanied by Xiao Wu Ge, Pei Qianlu, and Xiao Duo, arrived at Xiaoying Garden, where Xiao Wan’er awaited at the wooden bridge entrance.

“My son-in-law, guests have arrived at the mansion, as mentioned in the letter from the younger mistress—those martial experts from the streets.”

Xiao Wan'er wore a brilliant red veil, her face seeming all the more captivating beneath it. Yet she lowered her voice, adding a certain admonishing tone. Chen Yi heard this and, smiling, nodded assent. "My elder sister, the wind outside is strong—let's go inside." "Yes..."

The group entered the wooden pavilion and made their way to the living hall. Tang Huansha and others were already waiting at the dining table.

Xiao Wan'er took the lead to the foremost seat and gestured toward Chen Yi: "Miss Huansha, this is my younger sister's husband."

Chen Yi looked at Tang Huansha, gave a slight assessment, and smiled as he bowed: "Chen Yi, Chen Qingsong."

Tang Huansha likewise regarded him, noting his plain manner of greeting—she felt a slight surprise. Though not a great surprise, either.

After all, Tang Huansha didn't consider herself particularly beautiful, but having traveled the roads for years, she'd seen countless men gaze at her with various eyes. If she weren't the mistress of the Storm and Rain Pavilion, she sometimes wished she could gather those lecherous eyes into jade balls.

Like the several elite warriors she'd seen upon arriving at the Xiao family.

Yet Chen Yi's gentle, even temperament surprised her, and in that surprise, she felt a quiet satisfaction.

"Mr. Qingsong, your reputation has reached me often. I am Tang Huansha of the Storm and Rain Pavilion."

Chen Yi bowed slightly: "Tang Huansha, it's an honor. I am but a humble scholar."

"The pleasure is mine."

"In the capital, they often speak of you—how learned you are."

"Oh? Do people in the capital praise each other so freely?"

Tang Huansha paused, not expecting such a response.

Just as she was about to speak, Xiao Wan'er gestured for everyone to take their seats: "Miss Huansha, what do they call Mr. Qingsong in the capital?"

After taking her seat, Tang Huansha replied: "After the Mid-Autumn Festival, Mr. Qingsong's poem was widely circulated throughout the capital."

"On streets and alleys, one occasionally hears: 'May you live long, sharing the moon's radiance a thousand li away—who doesn't know?'"

When Xiao Wan'er heard those words, her face flushed faintly, and she quickly lowered her head to cover it: "Mr. Qingsong's poetry is excellent—excellent."

Chen Yi glanced at her, smiled, and acknowledged a few words before inviting everyone to eat: "Let us have a meal..."

They enjoyed a pleasant dinner together.

About an hour later, Tang Huansha and the others lodged at a pavilion in the Qixing Garden. Chen Yi then returned to the Spring Lotus Garden with Xiao Wugou and their companions.

"Master Shu, the Xiao family has truly fallen on hard times."

"The entire estate has only two beauties from the Tian Shan sect—Xing Yun and Hua Tang—who are even permitted to look upon it. The rest are mere common soldiers, quite ordinary."

"And that Mr. Qingsong, I'd say he's even weaker than Young Master Wugou."

Hearing such words from a fellow disciple, Tang Huansha glared at him: "Don't speak so lightly."

"Mr. Qingsong is a scholar, and a renowned master of letters and arts across nine provinces and three prefectures."

"Your martial skills surpass him. Have your techniques reached the complete stage?"

The man saw her anger rising and quickly bowed: "Forgive me, Master Shu..."

Qin Xiuce, standing nearby, also pleaded: "Master Shu, Brother Wang's disciple is still adjusting to life in Shu Zhou—he spoke without thinking."

Yet Tang Huansha glanced at him and asked: "How is your boxing practice progressing?"

"Master Shu, I sent him to Shu Zhou to refine his skills. When he reaches the complete stage, he'll be able to act on my behalf."

"..."

Qin Xiuce shrank back, unable to say more.

After Tang Huansha had rudely dismissed the rest of the fellow disciples, she returned to her chambers.

"No sleeping tonight—study and cultivate!"

"Yes..."

...

The Spring Lotus Garden.

Chen Yi could faintly hear movement from the Qixing Garden. A smile touched his lips.

"It seems Water and her elder sister haven't mentioned my identity to her."

"Indeed..."

Not that it mattered.

Chen Yi knew in his heart that eventually, people from the Storm and Rain Pavilion would learn of his identity.

Before then, he still had several matters to complete.

So as not to inadvertently cause offense to Master Xiao and Xiao Jinghong.

Chen Yi thought this, sat cross-legged on his bed.

After arranging the Go board to display an illusion, he began cultivating the Four Symbols technique.

Deep in meditation, the subtle energies of heaven and earth gradually were refined into his three great energy seas.

Not knowing how much time had passed, a faint glimmer of light flashed before his eyes.

[Daily Intel·Tier-Two: At the hour of Si, Guo Bai and Ye Luo discussed Daoist teachings on the upper reaches of the Red River, yielding vast opportunities...]

(Chapter Complete)