"Master, if you're really going to the Dream-Tethering Tower, you ought to talk it over with Mistress first," Lightbulb said, pouring a cup of tea for Lian Buda. "If you just barge in like that, I'm afraid you'll stir up quite a mess."
"What mess could there be? What's there to discuss with her? Do I owe her anything? My whole life was ruined in her hands, and I'm supposed to consult her?" At the mere mention of Bitter Crone, Lian Buda's temper flared. "I just want to go to the Dream-Tethering Tower and find myself a proper, decent wife! Whose business am I hurting?"
Lightbulb offered an easy smile. "Master, why go all the way to the Dream-Tethering Tower just to find a wife? A simple matter like that, I can take care of it for you. Whichever young lady catches your eye, I'll go make the match on your behalf!"
Lian Buda splashed a mouthful of tea straight into Lightbulb's face. "Let you go speak for me? By the time you're done talking, won't she belong to you? Looking as pretty as you do, you think that'll end well?"
Lightbulb wiped the tea from his face.
Dan Buda poured Lian Buda another cup. "Brother, you can't force things when it comes to looks. I happen to like the way Lightbulb looks too."
As she spoke, Dan Buda glanced at Lightbulb, her face flushing in waves, her gaze growing dreamier the more she looked.
Lian Buda splashed another faceful of tea at Lightbulb.
Lightbulb wiped his face again. "Master, don't be mad. Who knows, maybe someone out there actually fancies your look?"
Lian Buda blinked. "Who'd like it?"
"Mistress, of course! She always says your face isn't big at all!"
"Don't bring her up to me!" Lian Buda poured himself a cup. "Where did your junior brother run off to?"
"Zhong'er went to pick up his wife—"
Lian Buda splashed tea into Lightbulb's face once more. "Zhong'er's wife is here too? How come all of you have wives?!"
Lightbulb wiped his face. "*He's* the one with a wife! What are you splashing *me* for?!"
***
At the railway station, Zhong'er was helping Mijian off the train. Chen Changrui had come along as well.
"Director Chen, long time no see."
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Chen Changrui said to Zhong'er, "My visit this time has two purposes: first, to deliver your official appointment papers; second, to ask after Director Li's whereabouts."
Zhong'er took in Chen Changrui's tone and responded in kind: "Director Chen, we've also been searching for Director Li. So far, there are no definite leads."
Chen Changrui looked somewhat displeased with Zhong'er's manner. "As the newly appointed balancer, I hope you will fulfill your proper role. Before I departed, Director Gao Yina specifically emphasized that we hope to restore relations with Puluo Province as soon as possible."
Zhong'er nodded repeatedly. "Rest assured, Director. I will carry out my duties to the fullest. I will protect everything worthy of being protected—"
Mijian poked Zhong'er with a finger. "How about protecting me first? You think it was easy for me to come all this way?"
Zhong'er smiled. He hailed two rickshaws and took Mijian and Chen Changrui to his lodgings.
Along the road, Mijian kept grumbling: "If it weren't for you, I never would've come here. This place has no internet, no electricity, you can't even make a phone call—how are we supposed to live from now on? Tell me, how are we supposed to live—"
The rickshaw pulled up before a three-story Western-style building. Zhong'er paid the fare and helped Mijian down.
Mijian stood in the garden, looking up at the house. "Which room is ours?"
"All of them are ours," Zhong'er said with a smile. "Take your pick."
Mijian bit her lip. "D-don't go thinking I really like this... I actually don't care for it that much—"
"Then what do you like?" Zhong'er said with a solemn face. "Let's head inside, have some ice water, and talk it over slowly."
"You have a refrigerator here?"
"No refrigerator, but the teahouse next door has Cold Cultivators!"
Zhong'er invited Chen Changrui upstairs, but Chen Changrui waved his hand. "I won't go up. I want to see a friend. He's retired now, and I don't know where he's living at the moment."
"You must mean Chief Envoy Liao," Zhong'er said, checking the time. "At this hour, he should be over at Xiaoyaowu."
***
*"Fear not the gale that blows love astray, across thousands of rivers and mountains, affection will stay!"* Liao Zihui finished his song, and the entire hall erupted into cheers.
When he reached the backstage area, Steward Zhang brought over a stack of calling cards, all inviting Liao Zihui to join their tables for drinks.
Liao Zihui frowned. "What do they take me for? A courtesan? I won't see any of them. I'm here to perform my craft!"
Steward Zhang said, "You can turn everyone else away, but Lin Fojiao has arrived. It would be best if you met with him."
"Why is he back again?" Liao Zihui's expression grew grim. "Is it still about business?"
Steward Zhang nodded. "From the looks of it, he hasn't come with good intentions."
Liao Zihui pondered for a moment. "Pass word to Ma the Fifth. Let him make a decision early. I'll hold the line for him in the meantime!"
Steward Zhang produced another card. "Director Chen from the outer provinces wishes to see you as well. What do you think..."
Liao Zihui said, "He's an old acquaintance. Have him wait a bit while I deal with Lin Fojiao first."
Entering Lin Fojiao's private booth, Liao Zihui smiled. "Brother Lin, you've called for me again. You really flatter me!"
Lin Fojiao gave a cold smirk. "Chief Envoy Liao, it is rare indeed that you'd still grace me with an audience."
"Aren't you speaking like an outsider? And who might this be..." Liao Zihui noticed another man seated beside Lin Fojiao.
Lin Fojiao made the introduction: "This is Tang Changfa, my right-hand man in the outer provinces. I brought him along today to make sure this business goes through. I wonder if Chief Envoy Liao is willing to grant this face?"
Liao Zihui smiled. "I'd certainly give you the face, but the one who calls the shots is Lord Fifth Ma."
"Then why not invite Lord Fifth Ma over?"
"Lord Fifth Ma isn't at Xiaoyaowu today."
"The man may not be here, but his face is!" Lin Fojiao dug his heels in. "I see Jiang Mengting is performing tonight. Could we perhaps invite her over for a cup of wine?"
Liao Zihui shook his head. "Brother Lin, you're making things difficult. Jiang Mengting doesn't earn her living here. She only sings for her own amusement. How could we invite her to entertain guests for drinks?"
"Then that depends on whether Lord Fifth Ma will give us the face."
Lin Fojiao turned to Tang Changfa. "A'fa, go backstage and ask Steward Zhang whether Jiang Mengting can be brought over!"
Tang Changfa scurried backstage.
He had no intention of actually looking for Jiang Mengting. She certainly wasn't here as a common performer, and besides, she was receiving guests in her dressing room at that very moment—You Xuehan and You Xuetao were with her.
Jiang Mengting invited them both for tea. "Big Sisters, the Jiang family has received no small amount of care from you two these past days."
Youtao smiled. "We're all on the same side. There's no need for such formalities between us."
Tangyuan nodded. "My sister is right. No need for pleasantries. We only came today to learn one thing: where did our Director Li go?"
Jiang Mengting lowered her head. "You have me at a loss. I want to know Master Seventh's whereabouts just as much as you do."
Youtao studied Jiang Mengting closely. "Songstress Jiang, in all of Xiaoyaowu, Master Seventh doted on you the most. If you claim you know nothing at all, do you think we'd believe it?"
Jiang Mengting sighed. "If only I could find him, I wouldn't be singing here anymore. I'd sing for him alone, every single day."
Tangyuan and Youtao pressed her further, but Jiang Mengting said no more.
Tang Changfa lingered outside Jiang Mengting's door, circled around, and slipped into another private room to find Yan Hong'er and Yan Cui'er. "You two head back and find the city lord. Tell him Lin Fojiao is stirring up trouble again, and ask whether we should inform the shopkeeper."
Yan Hong'er and Yan Cui'er set off at once. Sun Tiecheng had bought a residence in Lushwater City not far from Xiaoyaowu, so the two arrived in no time.
With an ashen face, Sun Tiecheng stood in the courtyard.
Yan Hong'er and Yan Cui'er hurried forward to explain the situation: "City Lord, you must make a decision. This matter is quite urgent."
Sun Tiecheng kept a dark expression. "What's the rush? Isn't it just one Lin Fojiao? Let Tang Changfa figure out a way himself!"
Yan Cui'er dared not speak, but Yan Hong'er said, "City Lord, Old Tang still works under Lin Fojiao. What way could he possibly come up with?"
"Why couldn't he?" Sun Tiecheng flared in rage. "How many years has it been since I sent you all out? You can't even handle a petty matter like this? All you know how to do is pester Old Seventh every single day! Tell Tang Changfa to go consult Ma the Fifth!"
"City Lord, no one knows where Ma the Fifth has run off to these past few days!"
"Then go find Qin Tianjiu! Can a sect as huge as the Three Heroes Sect not keep a Lin Fojiao in check? Teach him a lesson once, and he'll behave!"
Sun Tiecheng was in a foul mood today. Neither Yan Cui'er nor Yan Hong'er dared talk back; they turned and left.
Sun Tiecheng looked up toward the roof and roared, "Get the hell down here!"
Squatting atop the roof, Old Train chuckled. "I'm not coming down!"
"Don't you go stomping my roof apart!"
"I'm tearing your house down today, believe it or not?"
"You damn well dare!"
Hearing that, Old Train broke into song:
*"Racing over flats, crossing hills and streams, chuffing out plumes of roaring steam! Add more coal, fill up with water, we hit the track—tearing down your house, my might knows no bound!"*
Sun Tiecheng was fuming. A'yu emerged from the house: "Are you leaving or not?"
Jiu'er chimed in from the side: "Dad, it's time to go. She's raising too much of a ruckus!"
Sun Tiecheng pointed at the roof. "Isn't this one making a ruckus too? If I leave, what about him?"
A'yu said, "Let him make a scene here! Go deal with the Heavenly Maiden first!"
Sun Tiecheng scoffed. "What does the Heavenly Maiden have to do with me? You're her house spirit, I'm not!"
"I'm your wife!" A'yu snapped. "You're just going to stand by and ignore my troubles, is that it?"
"So what if you're my wife? Even married couples must settle accounts clearly!" Sun Tiecheng tucked his hands into his sleeves and squatted on the ground. "I told you not to get mixed up in that mess, but did you listen? Now that trouble has arrived, you want me to shield you? You think the Heavenly Maiden is so easy to fool? Let me tell you plainly, this isn't something anyone can shield!"
A'yu kicked Sun Tiecheng. "I can't stand that miserable look of yours!"
"If you can't stand it, tough luck! Go look at someone else!" Sun Tiecheng leaped straight onto the roof and began grappling with Old Train.
Old Train sang and danced as they traded blows, having a grand old time. Gritting her teeth, A'yu heard the companion dwelling's voice in her ear: "Hurry up and go! I can't bear watching him act crazy here!"
A'yu fumed, "When the Heavenly Maiden goes mad in a bit, won't you have to watch anyway?"
The companion dwelling sighed. "Hurry up and settle things. I'm going to look for A'qi. Looking at all these people just makes me sick!"
Jiu'er called out, "Sister, let's go!"
A'yi stepped out of the house. Watching the two brawling on the roof, she smiled at Old Train: "Wife, don't hit too hard! That's my dad, and also your elder brother-in-law!"
Mother and daughters left with the companion dwelling. Sun Tiecheng and Old Train stopped fighting.
The two came down from the roof. Old Train sighed. "What was the point of fooling them? There's going to be huge trouble this time!"
Sun Tiecheng tucked his hands into his sleeves. "If trouble comes, let it come! Trouble won't be my fault anyway!"
Old Train asked again, "What about Lin Fojiao?"
Sun Tiecheng said, "Didn't I say it already? Let Fatty Qin handle it for now."
Old Train shook his head. "That old fox Lin Fojiao—how could Fatty Qin manage him?"
Sun Tiecheng, however, had faith in the young man: "Don't underestimate these youngsters. They fought their way up beside Old Seventh."
***
Tang Changfa phoned Qin Tianjiu, and Luo Zhengnan passed along the message in person.
Yuan Miaoping was quite curious: "Master, I've followed you for so long, yet whenever an important call comes, you won't let me listen. Do you distrust me?"
Luo Zhengnan shook his head. "It isn't a lack of trust. Things must be done according to the rules."
Yuan Miaoping smiled. "*You're* teaching me rules?"
Though she was no longer inside a television, she still wore the same outfit: denim clothes, dyed bangs, chewing bubblegum.
"If I don't teach you, who will? Even if you're acquainted with Master Seventh, you're still a disciple of my sect!" Luo Zhengnan glanced out the door. "Those two women outside are looking for you, aren't they? Try not to bring idle people around here in the future."
Yuan Miaoping blew a bubble, then sucked it back into her mouth. "I can't control those two. They're Master Seventh's people."
Luo Zhengnan looked at the chewing gum in her mouth with visible distaste. "Don't chew that stuff while you're working. Look at what you've made yourself into."
Yuan Miaoping walked out the door. Two women were indeed waiting outside. One wore a sleeveless blue qipao adorned with cloud patterns, holding a lady's slender pipe between her index finger and thumb; bringing it to her crimson lips, she took a gentle puff.
The other wore a white collared shirt with floral trim and black edging, paired with black trousers. Her hair was tied in a ponytail; she looked sharp, brisk, and capable.
"What, come to spy on me again?" Yuan Miaoping eyed the pair.
The woman in the qipao smiled. "We heard everything you just said. Disrespecting your master—that isn't good."
"Off to tattle to the chief again? You're not even an earring anymore, so why are your ears still so sharp?" Yuan Miaoping scoffed, turning toward the woman in the shirt. "Did you record what I said too?"
The woman in the trousers said nothing. Balancing on one foot, she spun in a pirouette right in front of Yuan Miaoping.
Yuan Miaoping snorted. "Since you love twirling so much, maybe one of these days we'll put you back inside a music box."
***
Fatty Qin received Tang Changfa's call and learned about Lin Fojiao: "I'll visit Boss Lin tomorrow. I have urgent business today—the Three Heroes Sect must pay respects to the Old Ancestor."
Tang Changfa felt the fat man was brushing him off: "Didn't you just pay respects to the Old Ancestor last month? Ninth Lord, you're stalling me!"
Fatty Qin said, "Brother Fa, that's where you're wrong. Our rules have changed. The Old Ancestor must be worshiped once every half month now. I'll go to Xiaoyaowu tomorrow; I truly cannot get away today."
Hanging up the receiver, Fatty Qin stepped into the main hall. He hadn't lied—today was indeed the day to worship the Old Ancestor.
Eighty-eight meat dishes, eighty-eight vegetarian dishes, a total of one hundred and seventy-six large platters were laid out. The entire sect performed the ceremonies together. Once the rites concluded, everyone withdrew from the hall, waiting for the Old Ancestor to dine.
By rule, Fatty Qin had to be the last to leave. But this time, he couldn't walk out.
The Old Ancestor materialized, and she spoke:
"This is a grand feast, yet you've only prepared these few dishes? Who is this supposed to feed?"
Fatty Qin pressed his lips together. "Old Ancestor, this isn't a small amount. You have a grand feast once every half month, and three small feasts every day. Eating like this, even we can barely hold up."
"What kind of talk is that? With such a vast estate and grand enterprise, are you short of a mouthful for me?"
"That's not just a mouthful—"
"Don't you know in your heart how much I've done for you, how many skills I've taught you?"
"I know it in my heart, and I always remember your kindness!"
"Then why does your heart ache over two bites of food?"
"I didn't dare grudge it—"
"And if the food isn't enough, I'm not even allowed to say so?"
"I'll tell the kitchen to make up for it right now."
"What were you doing earlier? Failing to make enough dishes beforehand means you don't take me seriously!"
"Are you fucking finished or not!" Fatty Qin lost his temper. "You eat more food each day than I eat coal, and you spend the whole day picking faults!"
Fifth Sister flared up as well: "What's the meaning of this? Looking to rebel?"
"If it's rebellion, then so be it!" Fatty Qin's temper erupted.
Outside the main hall, a crowd of sect members heard the fighting break out within.
An elder ran frantically to Feng Yuqiu: "Madam, this is bad! The Grand Golden Seal and the Old Ancestor are brawling!"
Feng Yuqiu showed no emotion. "Let them fight. It's not the first time."
Fatty Qin was no match for Fifth Sister. Before long, he was beaten black and blue, squatting on the floor in silence.
Fifth Sister went back to eating, holding no grudge. "I'm telling you, cook me another table just like this one, and we'll let this matter pass."
Fatty Qin nodded. "Fine, whatever the Old Ancestor says."
Two young women entered the hall. One wore a Western-style gown and possessed an extraordinary air, carrying herself like a lady of high noble birth.
The other wore a red peony qipao; her hips swayed as she walked, exuding charm and sensuality, though looking at her for more than a couple of glances left one drained of vigor, feeling oddly drowsy.
Fatty Qin had seen them before. These two were friends of the Old Ancestor, though he couldn't name them.
Since they had private matters to discuss, Fatty Qin quickly left the hall and dismissed the onlookers.
Hanxue said to Fifth Sister, "We heard the Heavenly Maiden is going to Heroes Mountain to stir up trouble. We came specifically to ask about the situation here."
Fifth Sister nodded. "I know about this matter."
Mengde asked, "Now that you know, how do you intend to handle it?"
Fifth Sister shook her head repeatedly. "I cannot meddle in this matter unless Master Seven steps forward."
Hanxue added, "A'tao took over the Ghost Hand Sect, but he's worried he won't be able to secure a firm footing."
Fifth Sister smiled. "That, I can handle. Tell A'tao not to worry."
***
Upon Heroes Mountain, the Heavenly Maiden was searching frantically for any trace of the Peddler.
Halfway up the slope was a rabbit burrow; Gao the Heavenly Maiden dug it out, but the Peddler was not inside.
In the woods stood an old elm; Gao the Heavenly Maiden chopped it down, but the Peddler was not in the tree.
At the mountain peak lay a massive boulder. Just as the Heavenly Maiden was about to overturn it, Lu Gongjiao leaped out: "Shrew, what do you think you're doing!"
She had no choice but to come out. Beneath the rock was a hidden chamber, and the Peddler was holed up inside it.
The Heavenly Maiden glared at Lu Gongjiao. "Get out of my way! If you don't leave, I'll scatter your soul to smoke and ash!"
"Big talk!" Lu Gongjiao drew her carved bow. "Let's see who dies first!"
The two clashed on the spot. In the secret chamber, the Peddler wore a solemn face.
What was to be done?
A meeting meant a fight to the death!
Who could hold the Heavenly Maiden down?
Who brought her all the way to Heroes Mountain?
The Heavenly Maiden had recovered a great deal of power recently. Striking ruthlessly, she unleashed the technique of Body and Shadow Comforting Each Other, summoning more than a dozen shadows to encircle Lu Gongjiao.
Lu Gongjiao was not to be outdone. Over a hundred carved bows manifested around her as she prepared to stake her life against the Heavenly Maiden.
The companion dwelling was terrified: "Go over there and drag the Heavenly Maiden back home!"
A'yi puffed out her chest and yelled, "Sister, you go!"
A'yu kicked A'yi.
Jiu'er urged, "Mom, you're her house spirit, it really should be you!"
A'yu raged, "A bunch of useless bums! If Hong Ying were here, she'd have been the first to charge in!"
The companion dwelling sighed. "If Hong Ying charged in, this fierce storm would be entirely beyond saving."
Overhearing this from below, the Peddler nodded. "Indeed. I fear this battle might end up written into the history books."
***
In Lixiu City, Boss Lu was compiling historical records alongside a group of scholars.
This work properly belonged in the Ink Fragrance Shop, but He Yuxiu, wanting to bring prestige to Lixiu City, had spared no expense. She had gathered massive quantities of historical materials from across the realm and invited Boss Lu over.
Under the lamplight, Xiao Yeci was leafing through a volume of miscellany from Willowpine Bridge. As she turned the pages, tears suddenly rolled down her cheeks.
Yi Xiuling stepped forward. "Sister, why are you crying?"
"This story... I told it to him!" Xiao Yeci wiped her tears. "Back at Willowpine Bridge, I told him this very story."
Yi Xiuling didn't understand, but He Yuxiu spoke up from the side: "Back at Willowpine Bridge, Yeci told stories to Old Seventh every single day. I couldn't make heads or tails of them, but Old Seventh understood them all. He could listen through the entire night without ever growing tired of it."
Yi Xiuling took out a handkerchief and wiped Xiao Yeci's tears. "Seeing familiar things stirs longing for the person. I know that feeling all too well. I don't even feel like writing *Yuxiangji* anymore."
Boss Lu said, "Miss Xiao, don't read this volume of miscellany for now. Switch to another one."
Xiao Yeci shook her head. "That won't do. There are truly useful historical records in here; they must be written down. With my meager cultivation, to be allowed to take part in such an important endeavor is truly an honor. It's only out of respect for my benefactor's face that everyone gave me this opportunity!"
Boss Lu shook his head. "It isn't just for his face. Miss Xiao, your talent and perseverance are plain for all to see."
He Yuxiu chimed in, "That's right! Our Yeci is a capable woman! Your daughter is capable too. But there's something I have to tell you. Chunying has run into quite a conflict with He Jiaqing over business. I'm not speaking on that beast's behalf—if He Jiaqing dares touch Chunying, I'll definitely take his life! But He Jiaqing is treacherous in his dealings. I'm afraid Chunying won't out-scheme him and will suffer a terrible loss!"
Xiao Yeci nodded. "I'll find a chance to advise Chunying as well."
A colossal river snail shell came to a stop outside the door. He Yuxiu took one look and went out to welcome Luo Shaojun inside.
Yi Xiuling smiled. "Sister Xiu has quite the face, even inviting a marquis from the inner provinces!"
He Yuxiu shook her head. "Don't flatter me! Where would I get that kind of face? This is all for Old Seventh's sake!"
Blushing, Luo Shaojun said, "Sister, please don't tease me. I came to deliver historical materials."
Boss Lu quickly moved the materials Luo Shaojun had brought into the room. Many accounts concerning Puluo Province could be found within the historical records of the Shang state.
Luo Shaojun walked up to Xiao Yeci and asked in a low voice, "Sister, will we ever see Seventh Brother again?"
Xiao Yeci bit her lip, then smiled. "We will. We definitely will!"
Luo Shaojun nodded. "I think so too. In my family's rear courtyard, there's a Yucui Tower, and inside Yucui Tower is an elder sister named Jiang Ling'er. She said we'll definitely see him again. She said she's made so many clothes, just waiting for Seventh Brother to return and wear them."
He Yuxiu sighed. "That Old Seventh... still no word after all this time. Ah, I almost forgot—Miss Luo, your sisters came along, didn't they? Later on, let's all gather at my place. I've prepared food and wine to wash the dust of travel from you all."
Luo Shaojun said, "Sister Lijun went to Lushwater City looking for Fifth Brother; Sister Xiujun and Sister Yujun went to Santoucha to find Xiaoshan; Sister Yanjun is watching Chaoge—she said something big might happen there again."
"Something big indeed is brewing in Chaoge. Please relay word to Miss Yanjun to avoid entering the city if possible, and to gather more men and horses. The imperial clan has suffered repeated heavy blows; turmoil may soon break out." Chu Shaoqiang and Chu Huaiyuan entered the bookroom, also delivering a sizable batch of historical texts to Boss Lu.
He Yuxiu took Chu Huaiyuan's hand. "Huaiyuan, where have you been all this time? I haven't seen you in so long! You didn't open up new lands or manage your territory—where did you run off to?"
Chu the Second lowered her head. "I went to the inner provinces, traveling to many places. I went looking for Seventh Brother."
Xiao Yeci stepped forward. "Miss Chu, any news?"
Chu the Second shook her head. Xiao Yeci's eyes reddened once more.
Fearing Chu the Second might dwell on her grief, Yi Xiuling suggested, "Huaiyuan, stay here and write books with us!"
Chu the Second shook her head. "I must find him. Even if I must search all eleven provinces and three commanderies, even if it takes a lifetime, I will find Seventh Brother."
A woman brought a cup of tea to Chu the Second. Chu the Second looked at her: the woman's eyebrows slanted sharply toward her temples, their tips sharp enough to pierce window paper. Her nose was straight, yet the tip had a downward hook; the corners of her eyes and her chin seemed hooked as well. She was exceptionally pretty, yet within her beauty lay a veiled sharpness.
Feeling an innate closeness to her, Chu the Second asked, "What is your name?"
The woman smiled. "I am called A'lian."
Boss Lu, writing with his head down, remarked casually, "Miss A'lian was invited by me. She possesses a piece of lost history said to have been left on Sage Peak by that sage. She is acquainted with Master Seventh, so you all might as well have a good chat with her."
At the mention of Li Qi, A'lian's cheeks flushed crimson.
As they spoke, Accountant Sheng Shanzhou entered the room and said to He Yuxiu, "Eldest Young Mistress, the Old Ancestor says he can't hold out anymore. He can't work today."
He Yuxiu frowned. "Which Old Ancestor?"
"Your granduncle!"
He Yuxiu laughed. "How can he not work? Back when he risked his life for the imperial court, didn't he have plenty of strength? Doing a few odd chores here and he suddenly can't hold up? Tell him to keep at it, and I'll go see him in a moment."
Sheng Shanzhou looked troubled. "He said he doesn't want to see you. He said he wants to see He Jiaqing."
He Yuxiu walked out the door and picked up a wooden club. "These old folks just need a good lesson. Let me see who spoiled him with such bad habits!"
***
"Jiaqing, business can't be run like this! Lu Chunying has bought up several of our factories in Smokewater City!" Duan Shuqun held an account ledger, exasperated. "If we keep taking losses like this, we won't be able to hold out."
He Jiaqing held knitting needles, working on a sweater. "It's just a few factories; let's not fuss over them. Lu Chunying belongs to Li Qi's side; we can yield to her in minor matters."
"But our expenditures for land reclamation are about to overwhelm us."
"I'll figure something out for the money," He Jiaqing said, holding up the half-knitted sweater to ask Shen Rongqing, "This pattern is tricky to hook."
Looking helpless, Shen Rongqing corrected He Jiaqing's hand movements bit by bit.
Big Head chimed in from the side: "The matter with the Ghost Hand Sect has been investigated. That person claims his surname is Lu, and that he used to be the young sect master of the Ghost Hand Sect."
He Jiaqing paused. "Surname Lu?"
Duan Shuqun asked, "Do you think he's related to the Lu family?"
He Jiaqing set down the sweater. "Not necessarily the Lu family, but likely connected to the Thief Cultivator Old Ancestor. I'll go take a look."
Taking Big Head with him, he went to the Ghost Hand Sect. After all, he had once been the chief of the sect; the pincers inside were all very respectful toward He Jiaqing and ushered him straight into the main hall.
A young man sat at the center of the hall. He looked around one meter seventy tall, around thirty years of age, and judging by his frame, he weighed barely eighty or ninety jin, skin and bones through and through.
Yet his eyes were extraordinarily large; every time he blinked, his eyelids seemed to glide over the eyeballs for a good long while.
"Sect Master Lu, long time no see!" He Jiaqing greeted him first.
This man was the former young sect master of the Ghost Hand Sect, Lu Wujiu. It had been entirely through his introduction that He Jiaqing had come to know the old sect master, Lu Juncong.
Lu Wujiu stood up with a grin. "Jiaqing, did you come specially to visit me today? Why did you come empty-handed?"
He Jiaqing clasped his hands. "This junior came in haste. Surely Senior won't hold it against me?"
Lu Wujiu's face darkened. "I certainly will. If you come next time, don't even step through the door empty-handed."
He Jiaqing added, "This junior may not know all the rules, but Senior shouldn't snatch my business either, should you?"
Lu Wujiu asked, "What business did I snatch from you?"
"On his deathbed, Sect Master Lu passed the Ghost Hand Sect to me; pincers great and small can all attest to it. Senior arrived uninvited and sat straight in the master's seat. Do you find that in keeping with the rules?" He Jiaqing drew out a folding fan and fluttered it twice.
Lu Wujiu saw clearly that he was preparing to employ a technique.
Lu Chunying stepped from the back hall into the front: "He Jiaqing, you claim Sect Master Lu snatched your position, but we've never heard of such a thing. Sect Master Lu passed the mantle to Sect Master Lu—I can bear witness to that."
He Jiaqing looked at Lu Chunying. "Sister Chunying, this is internal business of our Ghost Hand Sect. An outsider like you shouldn't interfere, right?"
"Who's an outsider?" Lu Chunying stood beside Lu Wujiu. "We both share the surname Lu! We're of the same clan!"
"Well said! We're all one family!" Another figure strode out from the rear hall. The man was tall, standing well over one meter ninety.
Yet he too was lean, just as skeletal as Lu Wujiu.
His face was extraordinarily long, his nose broad, his ears sharp, and his eyes appeared roughly the same size as Lu Wujiu's.
Zou Guoming laughed. "How come you've got the face of a donkey?"
Yuan the Lean Donkey stepped up to Zou Guoming. "Who are you talking to?"
Zou Guoming felt for the dagger in his sleeve. "You look like a donkey—don't you know it?"
Yuan the Lean Donkey glanced at Zou Guoming's sleeve and smirked. "Looking to draw a blade? Go ahead, pull it out and let me see! I know a thing or two about knives myself. We'll decide victory within three strikes!"
"Why draw knives? When guests arrive, tea must be brewed first!" A white-haired elder with a hunched back came into the hall carrying a teapot. "Sit for a moment, everyone, and I'll pour you all a cup!"
As the tea poured into the cups, steam billowed throughout the room!
"Tea alone without wine? Surely that won't do!" An exquisite beauty approached holding a wine gourd.
She had a willow-slender waist, softly rounded above and below, wearing a pleated skirt tied with a red silk cord. Her steps produced gentle ripples of grace. Her dew-moist skin carried the tender glow of fresh melon, and her plump cheeks resembled frosted winter pears, looking as if honey would seep forth with the slightest pinch.
As the woman poured wine into the cups, a mellow fragrance drifted through the hall. Zou Guoming felt drunken and dizzy, but suddenly a gust of cold wind swept past his back, instantly snapping him awake.
What immense presence!
He Jiaqing looked back to see a woman standing in the courtyard. She was clad in black, gripping a long sword. Tall and straight, athletic in build, she had striking, realm-toppling features, lacking only a woman's gentle softness, yet carrying more fortitude than any soldier.
She looked like a general, but why was her hair bun piled so high?
Lu Wujiu quickly stepped forward to bow. "Second Mistress of the House, we have disturbed you!"
Hong Ying strode into the hall, her overwhelming aura making Zou Guoming tremble.
He Jiaqing kept his footing reasonably well and hastily bowed. "Greetings, Senior."
Hong Ying wasted no words on pleasantries: "You came to snatch business?"
He Jiaqing stayed silent for ten seconds, then turned to Lu Wujiu. "I came to congratulate Sect Master Lu. A congratulatory gift will follow shortly."
With that, He Jiaqing supported Big Head and made a hasty exit.
Hong Ying found it boring. "A'tao, Qilang was worried trouble might arise on your end and insisted I make the trip. Had I known he was such a coward, I wouldn't have bothered coming!"
Lu Wujiu quickly explained, "He Jiaqing possesses real capability. He only refrained from recklessness today because he was suppressed by Second Mistress's might. How is the Master's condition?"
Hong Ying said, "It will still take some time. He specifically instructed me to tell you all to manage the business well."
***
He Jiaqing and Big Head hurried all the way back to their quarters. Big Head lay in bed for half the day, still shivering.
Duan Shuqun asked, "Whom did you run into to terrify you like this?"
Big Head shook his head repeatedly. "I don't know who they were, but their background is terrifying!"
He Jiaqing offered no detailed explanation, giving only two instructions: "First, the matter of the Ghost Hand Sect must never be brought up again. Second, we must never compete with the Lu family's business from now on."
Duan Shuqun secretly pondered: just whose people had they encountered?
Li Qi hadn't shown himself in a long time. Who else could frighten Jiaqing to such an extent?
Ma the Fifth?
Where had Ma the Fifth gone lately anyway?
***
In Qianqiu City, Qiu Luoye summoned Che Wushang.
Ma the Fifth sat in the middle of the rickshaw, Pan Dehai on his left and Feng Daiku on his right.
Che Wushang lifted the rickshaw shafts and said to Qiu Luoye, "I'm only responsible for delivering them to the place. I won't interfere in anything else."
Pan Dehai nodded. "A man of virtue never breaks his word!"
Che Wushang shook his head. "I don't trust you. I trust Old Qiu."
Qiu Luoye said, "Rest easy. You manage the journey; leave the rest to others. Once it's settled, come find me for your fare!"
With the rules agreed upon with the runner, Qiu Luoye and Shui Yongquan took turns advising Ma the Fifth: "Fifth Brother, once you're up there, speak to them properly. We aren't going to pick a fight; we need to find a way to bring Old Seventh back!"
Ma the Fifth nodded repeatedly. "Rest assured, brothers."
Che Wushang lifted the shafts and carried the three straight up into the clouds.
Pan Dehai led the way, bringing Ma the Fifth and Feng Daiku to Ai Yeqing's residence.
Feng Daiku detested Pan Dehai, but this time she had to come along. Pan Dehai shared some friendship with Ai Yeqing and could speak with him, and Feng Daiku had dealt with Mu Yuejuan in the past.
Inside the house, Ai Yeqing brewed tea, warmed wine, and warmly received the three.
Ma the Fifth had no patience for beating around the bush and asked straight about Li Qi's whereabouts.
Ai Yeqing said, "Back then, the battle was raging fiercely. Yuejuan found an exit, so the two of us escaped first. Li Qi and Hen Wuyou hadn't figured out their exits yet. Whether they made it out successfully, we can't say for sure."
An oil painting hung in the living room. Mu Yuejuan's voice came from within the canvas: "Yeqing is right. We truly wanted to rescue Master Seventh, but that exit had to be devised by himself."
"In other words, Hen Wuyou should know Old Seventh's whereabouts?"
Mu Yuejuan nodded. "They were the last to leave. Hen Wuyou is the most likely to know where Master Seventh went."
Ma the Fifth said no more, rising to take his leave.
Ai Yeqing saw them to the doorway, stepping no further.
Even if he wanted to leave, he couldn't.
The exit he chose back then had been this very house, because it contained a vast hoard of copper coins forged from his own blood, allowing him to return here naturally—yet trapping him within the house as well.
The oil painting on the wall had been painted by Mu Yuejuan's own hand. Because she was never satisfied with ordinary pigments, she had blended her own blood into the paints and mixed them repeatedly, creating a deeply rooted exit.
Now, she was trapped within the painting, unable to emerge.
Looking at Ai Yeqing, Mu Yuejuan didn't forget to tease: "Craving my body? Want to come inside and play?"
Ai Yeqing waved his hand. "Quit fooling around. I don't want to get trapped in there. Where did Li Qi go? Did he escape or not?"
***
Ma the Fifth arrived beneath the clouds, intending to seek out Hen Wuyou.
Pan Dehai said, "According to the intelligence I've gathered, Hen Wuyou seems to have gone to Zhouguxu."
Ma the Fifth said to the rickshaw runner, "Take us to Zhouguxu."
The runner shook his head. "I won't go to that place."
"I'll pay the fare. Name your price!"
"It's not a matter of money. No matter how much you pay, I won't go!"
Shui Yongquan urged, "Fifth Brother, Zhouguxu isn't a place anyone can casually enter!"
Qiu Luoye said, "Don't rush. I'll go find my husband—no, wait, I'll go ask A'yi. She might know something."
Ma the Fifth's eyes reddened. "Just tell me: how do I get to Zhouguxu?!"
***
At the entrance of the village in Zhouguxu, Hen Wuyou stood with the Curse Cultivators, confronting Yang Xiangjun and the Gu Cultivators.
"Yang, get the hell out of here! This is my territory!"
"Hen Wuyou, who says this is your territory? The chief of Puluo Province is Master Seventh, and Master Seventh told me to hold Zhouguxu! Who do you think you are?"
Hen Wuyou raged, "I don't care how you hooked up with Li Qi! If you have the guts, have him come find me! If not, scram right now!"
Yang Xiangjun sneered. "Want to drive me away? Show me some real skill! Gu and poison share one root—I'll lead my sisters in giving you a proper fight!"
Hen Wuyou indeed found her difficult to deal with; Yang Xiangjun's methods directly countered hers.
"You little slut! By tomorrow I'll take your life!"
"You bitch, no need to wait for tomorrow—you won't have a life left tonight!"
The two spat at each other and returned to their respective camps.
Yang Xiangjun wasn't bluffing; Hen Wuyou truly might lose her life tonight.
Shortly after returning to her quarters, Xu Han arrived with Ling Baitao and Little Genzi.
Hen Wuyou was startled. "Old Xu, what are you doing here?"
Xu Han pointed at Ling Baitao. "This is a descendant of the Ling family. Do you recognize her?"
Hen Wuyou's heart tightened. "I don't."
Ling Baitao clasped her hands toward Hen Wuyou. "Senior, the curse upon our White Falcon Commandery was left by you, wasn't it?"
"What curse? I know nothing of it!"
Ling Baitao said, "Across the five islands of White Falcon, nothing grows except peaches. Did this curse not come from your hands?"
Hen Wuyou fell silent for a moment, then looked up at Ling Baitao. "Back then, I sought to establish my tribe in White Falcon Commandery, but your Ling family could not tolerate me. So I left that curse. If you must blame someone, blame your ancestors for their lack of reason."
Ling Baitao bowed once more. "Senior, I know little of what transpired between our ancestors. But times have changed. Isn't it time to lift the curse upon White Falcon Commandery?"
Hen Wuyou shook her head with a laugh. "I cannot lift it. I've forgotten the method."
Xu Han chuckled. "Easily handled. I'll help you remember. Genzi, hand me the bucket."
Hen Wuyou gritted her teeth. "Xu Han, what does this have to do with you?"
Xu Han said, "The brave folk of White Falcon Commandery are all my family. On my own home turf, I must oversee such matters. Wanlong, are the crops planted?"
Yi Wanlong shouted from outside the door: "Eggplants, cabbages, watermelons, oranges—all planted!"
"Jinxiao, is the fertilizer ready?"
Tan Jinxiao yelled from outside: "Rest easy, we've got both the yellow and the white ready!"
"Songzi, are all the men in place?"
Bai Wusong circled in midair. "Ready long ago! Even with wings, she won't fly out of here!"
Xu Han picked up his ladle. "I ask you one more time: can this curse be lifted or not!"
Gritting her teeth, Hen Wuyou clashed with Xu Han.
Outside the encampment stood a photographer in his thirties, sporting long curly hair, a tailcoat, a tall nose bridge, and deep eye sockets, his chiseled features brimming with artistic flair.
Loading a roll of film, he cranked the camera, capturing the battle inside the camp.
"The Metal Cultivators haven't intervened yet. Up to this point, this clash still possesses a certain artistry. Master Seventh shouldn't find it too distasteful when he sees it."
A golden raincloud drifted across the sky!
The photographer looked up for a moment, hoisted his camera, and bolted.
***
Ma the Fifth returned to Xiaoyaowu, sitting despondently in his room.
He opened a bottle of wine, brought two glasses, filled them up, drank two mouthfuls, and let tears stream down his face.
Steward Zhang knocked and entered, handing a letter to Ma the Fifth: "Shopkeeper Qiu Zhiheng sent a letter for you. Please take a look."
Ma the Fifth unfolded the letter and glanced over it.
He rubbed his eyes and read it carefully once more.
Having finished, his eyes went wide, and a smile broke across his face.
Unsure what good news had arrived, Steward Zhang asked cautiously, "Fourth Master is here. Will you see him?"
"I'll see him!" Ma the Fifth was in high spirits. "Let him in."
Ma Junjiang entered the room, sitting awkwardly across from Ma the Fifth, his head bowed. "Dad wants you to come home for a visit."
Ma the Fifth stared at Ma Junjiang for a while. "Speak your mind quickly, I still have business to attend to!"
"Junyang, our family's businesses are all gone. We can barely get by. To tell you the truth, we can hardly afford rice now. Junyang, you can't just watch Dad beg on the streets!"
Ma the Fifth's face grew cold. "You colluded with the enemy. The only reason you've lived to this day is out of respect for my face."
"But we're family after all—"
"When I was starving in Blue Poplar Village, did you remember I was family?"
"Junyang, I..."
Ma the Fifth pulled a box of silver dollars from a drawer and handed it to Ma Junjiang. "I'm in a good mood today. Take this to buy rice."
Ma Junjiang accepted the silver dollars, then added, "My boy, your nephew Ma Yueling—he isn't young anymore, it's time he entered a Daoist gate. This medicinal powder..."
Ma the Fifth frowned. "You're asking me for that too? Does our family have no powder left?"
Ma Junjiang kept his head low. "The powder was sold off long ago, not a speck left!"
Ma Junyang said, "Go buy it from the Peddler yourself. The money I gave you is more than enough."
"Where am I supposed to find the Peddler?" Ma Junjiang looked distressed. "I heard people say the Peddler was gone long ago."
"Nonsense!" Ma Junyang lit a cigarette. "Go look around Yaowanggou. The Peddler has been active in that area lately."
This was what had been written in the letter.
Qiu Zhiheng had informed Ma the Fifth that the Peddler was in Yaowanggou.
Ma Junjiang dared say no more. Taking the silver dollars, he returned home, gave a sum of money to Ma Yueling, and urged him: "Don't spend it recklessly. Take the train to Yaowanggou and buy the powder from the Peddler."
***
Ma Yueling took the money to Yaowanggou, asking around until he found the Feng Family Grocery Store.
Shopkeeper Feng pointed the way, and sure enough, he found the Peddler in the outer valley.
*"Foreign soaps, vanishing cream,*
*Silk scarves, kerchiefs, sewing seams!*
*Leather buckets, iron ladles,*
*Matches, candles, sturdy shovels!*
*Pickle jars, soy sauce crocks, soup spoons, water gourds, kitchen cleavers!*
*A cart of fine goods under an old brand,*
*All sold cheap, take your pick by hand!"*
Tired from chanting, Zhao Xiaowan set down the cart and rested against a willow tree.
Ma Yueling watched her for a long while, his heart trembling.
This person was the Peddler?
A peddler this stunning?
Was she an immortal descended to earth?
He hurried forward and said to Zhao Xiaowan, "I-I've come to buy medicinal powder."
Zhao Xiaowan looked at Ma Yueling. "Today I have powders for Travel, Martial, Poison, Error, Calculation, and Literature Cultivation. Which one do you want?"
Ma Junjiang had instructed him before he left, so Ma Yueling said, "I want to buy Literature Cultivation."
"Literature Cultivation is ninety dollars."
"So expensive?" Ma Yueling flinched; he hadn't brought enough money. "Could it be a little cheaper?"
Zhao Xiaowan smiled. "Bargaining with me? I've weathered wind and rain the whole way just to earn these few hard-earned coins. Do you think it's easy?"
Facing such a breathtaking beauty, Ma Yueling felt too embarrassed to press for a discount.
"Then I won't buy it for now."
Ma Yueling turned and walked away. Zhao Xiaowan didn't stop him, knowing the boy would return.
After a short wait, before Ma Yueling came back, Teacher Song rushed over in frantic haste and grabbed Zhao Xiaowan's hand. "General Zhao, I found a lead!"
Zhao Xiaowan asked impatiently, "What lead?"
Ever since Li Banfeng vanished, Teacher Song's mental state had been erratic; she was always coming around to badger Zhao Xiaowan.
"I found a lead on Banfeng!"
Zhao Xiaowan smiled. "Where did you get a lead? Were you tricked again? Acting up like this every day isn't a solution. Go find your father quickly and let Kang Zhenchang give you a proper examination."
"I'm not lying to you, I really found a lead! I found Murong Gui, the local deity of the Ink Fragrance Shop! He's lying by the roadside, and I can't tell whether he's alive or dead.
"He's Banfeng's friend, so he must know Banfeng's whereabouts! Hurry and come take a look!"
"A'bi—no, wait, that Murong Gui came to Yaowanggou?" Zhao Xiaowan was astonished; this was something she truly hadn't anticipated.
"I think he's about to breathe his last! Hurry and come with me!"
Zhao Xiaowan left the cart behind and followed Teacher Song.
Once they were far away, Ma Yueling crept back to the cart and reached for the cabinet.
There were many drawers on the cabinet, but Ma Yueling couldn't open a single one. Just as he was panicking, a crisp sound clicked from within.
*Whoosh!*
What was that?
A plume of white steam rose from the cabinet, frightening Ma Yueling so badly he tumbled to the ground.
From the top of the cabinet emerged one large horn and two small horns.
The three horns slowly rose, followed by a mechanical cabinet emerging beneath them.
Inside the cabinet flickered firelight; on top were two turntables spinning two records.
This was... a steam phonograph?
Terrified, Ma Yueling scrambled up to flee.
*Clack, clack, clack!*
A man's voice came from the phonograph: "Halt! Where do you think you're going!"
Ma Yueling's legs gave out, and he collapsed back onto the ground. "I-I'm not going!"
The phonograph asked, "Who are you?"
"I'm Ma Yueling."
"That name sounds somewhat familiar. Are you from the Ma family?"
Ma Yueling nodded vigorously. "I am from the Ma family! Ma Junjiang is my dad, and Ma Junyang is my Fifth Uncle!"
"So you're Ma the Fifth's nephew. What did you come here for?"
"I came to buy medicinal powder."
"To buy powder, or to steal powder?"
"To buy!" Ma Yueling certainly didn't dare say steal. "I have money!"
From behind the phonograph stretched two hands. One held a top hat and placed it over the horn's opening; the other held a feather duster and tapped the cabinet twice.
"Which Daoist gate do you want to buy?"
"L-Literature Cultivation."
"Literature Cultivation is ninety dollars!"
"I don't have enough money..."
"How much do you have?"
Ma Yueling summoned his courage: "Would fifty work?"
The phonograph grew displeased: "You're quite the bargainer, cutting it nearly in half right off the bat! Pick another gate—how about Metal Cultivator?"
Metal Cultivator?
The earlier peddler hadn't mentioned having Metal Cultivator powder.
"How much for Metal Cultivator?"
"One hundred dollars!"
Ma Yueling seemed to recall something: "Isn't Metal Cultivator the gate that carries buckets?"
The phonograph pulled the hat's brim a bit lower. "What's wrong with carrying buckets? Carrying buckets has no future? Besides, you don't even have enough money, yet you're being so picky?"
"I don't want that gate. I only want Literature Cultivation. Senior, for my Fifth Uncle's sake, please let me have it cheaper..."
The phonograph considered for a moment. "Fine then. Fifty will do. Cash on delivery!"
Ma Yueling hastily handed over the money. The phonograph reached into the cabinet, brought out a handful of medicinal powder, and said to Ma Yueling, "Expose your belly."
Ma Yueling lifted his clothes, exposing his belly.
Holding the powder, the phonograph smeared it across Ma Yueling's face.
Ma Yueling rolled on the ground in agony. He had no idea why he had been told to bare his stomach, but with the searing pain unbearable, he had no mind to ponder it.
After half an hour, Ma Yueling was largely unharmed. The phonograph tapped the feather duster: "The rules of cultivation—your Ma family ought to know them, so I won't waste words.
"Once you enter the gate, do not slack off. Read at least one book a day. Gains and losses balance out, neither owing the other anything. You may go."
Ma Yueling thanked him repeatedly and scurried away.
Before long, Zhao Xiaowan returned to the cart carrying Murong Gui on her shoulder, saying to the phonograph, "Our Lazy Pen walked all the way here from the Ink Fragrance Shop!"
*Whoosh!* Dewdrops condensed over the phonograph's horn, its voice trembling: "A'bi, thank you for your trouble."
"Hmph!" Murong Gui patted the dust from his clothes, turned his head, leaned against the cart, and fell asleep.
Zhao Xiaowan inspected the cabinet. "Precious Husband, did you sell the powder?"
*Hiss—*
Li Banfeng said, "Sold it. Fifty dollars."
Zhao Xiaowan smiled. "Sold a bit cheap, didn't you?"
Li Banfeng puffed steam and said, "It's fine. Fifty isn't much, but in the end... it's still, still a profit."
He suddenly began to stutter.
Zhao Xiaowan gazed affectionately at Li Banfeng.
Li Banfeng shivered slightly.
"Precious Husband, your voice seems a bit jammed."
"No, I'm... quite smooth."
Zhao Xiaowan lifted an oilcan. "It's clearly jammed. Husband, it's time to oil your gears."
"Don't, Wife. This engine oil stuff... I've never used it before."
"There's a first time for everything. Oiling is wonderful."
"What's so wonderful about it?"
"Once oiled, Husband will soon be able to come out of the phonograph!"
"No need to rush! It's so warm in here, it's actually quite nice!"
"Your humble servant is impatient, Husband! Don't run! How did you oil your humble servant back then? Did you really think I forgot?"
"Precious Wife, we can talk this over! How about I sing a tune for you instead?!"
Chapter 860