In Datong, the Phoenix Forest Pavilion was always bustling with patrons, not only because of its famed Phoenix delicacies but also due to its proprietress, Phượng Tả Nhi – a captivating and eloquent woman. At this very moment, Phượng Tả Nhi, her hair styled into a high bun adorned with a jade hairpin that swayed gently, was draped in a fragrant brocade phoenix robe. Golden cicada bracelets graced each wrist, and embroidered red shoes adorned her light, graceful steps as she chatted and joked with her guests, filling the air with laughter.

"Sở Phong!"

A clear voice rang out. Phượng Tả Nhi turned and saw Sở Phong standing before her, a smile playing on his lips, with the Princess and Thiên Ma Nữ behind him.

Phượng Tả Nhi hurried forward to greet him, her smile radiant. "Sở công tử? A rare guest indeed! A rare guest!"

Sở Phong chuckled, "I have specially come to trouble Phượng Tả Nhi."

Phượng Tả Nhi laughed, "If you come to trouble this sister, this sister couldn't be happier."

Sở Phong smiled, "I only fear that Phượng Tả Nhi, with guests and friends aplenty, might neglect me."

"Oh! That remark of yours truly flatters this sister."

The other patrons were momentarily astonished to see three such distinguished figures suddenly arrive: one with a dashing and heroic demeanor; one with snow-white hair and innate beauty; and one with long hair cascading over her shoulders, exuding an aloof and exquisite beauty.

Phượng Tả Nhi led the trio directly up to the Phoenix Welcoming Platform. Before they could even sit, Sở Phong declared, "Phượng Tả Nhi, quickly prepare a table of dishes, my stomach is rumbling fiercely!"

Phượng Tả Nhi smiled, "I've already given the orders."

Sở Phong added, "Remember to bring a jar of fine wine."

Phượng Tả Nhi replied, "Doesn't this sister know you enjoy wine? It's already prepared."

Sở Phong urged, "Then bring it quickly!"

Phượng Tả Nhi laughed, "As the saying goes, 'Fine dishes and fine wine.' Before the delicacies arrive, the wine must not be served."

Sở Phong hastily said, "I can forgo the delicacies, but not the wine. Good sister, please bring the wine first."

Phượng Tả Nhi countered, "This wine of mine is no ordinary vintage; you must wait a while."

Upon hearing this, Sở Phong wished he could immediately drink to his heart's content, but Phượng Tả Nhi merely ignored his eagerness.

The Princess giggled, "Phượng Tả Nhi is tormenting Senior Brother Sở."

Phượng Tả Nhi smiled, "I am merely enhancing Sở công tử's drinking pleasure." She then gently stroked the Princess's hair, praising, "Princess, your snow-white hair is even more beautiful." She then looked towards Thiên Ma Nữ, about to make a playful remark, but suddenly felt a chilling aloofness emanate, making her unable to utter a word.

Sở Phong quickly interjected, "This is Miss Thiên Nữ."

Phượng Tả Nhi paused, then understood. This black-clad young lady before her was none other than the Heavenly Demoness who had shocked the land a decade ago. She immediately curtsied, "So it is Miss Thiên Nữ! My apologies for the oversight!"

Thiên Ma Nữ offered no response.

Soon, plate after plate of exquisite dishes arrived, but the wine was nowhere to be seen. Sở Phong repeatedly urged, until Phượng Tả Nhi herself descended, returning a moment later with a wine gourd in hand. Sở Phong eagerly pushed his cup forward, but Phượng Tả Nhi said, "If you wish to drink this wine, you must first discern its name." With that, she slightly unstoppered the gourd, and a delicate pear fragrance wafted out.

Sở Phong sniffed, then exclaimed in surprise, "The wine carries the scent of pear, subtly hinting at spring. Could it be 'Pear Blossom Spring'?"

"Do you know its origin?"

Sở Phong replied, "Bai Juyi’s poem speaks of 'Red sleeves weaving silk and praising the emperor; green flag, lone wine, enjoying pear blossoms.' This is further explained as 'Wine brewed during the pear blossom season is called Pear Blossom Spring.' That is its origin."

Phượng Tả Nhi smiled, "Sở công tử indeed knows his wine. This jar of 'Pear Blossom Spring' is a cherished treasure of this humble establishment, which I shall share with you today."

Sở Phong was overjoyed, quickly pushing his cup forward. But Phượng Tả Nhi said, "Since you know it's Pear Blossom Spring, you must also know that drinking it on an empty stomach would be flavorless; one must first savor the delicacies."

Sở Phong gritted his teeth in frustration, then devoured the food like a storm sweeping away clouds. Impatiently, he pushed his cup forward again, saying, "Phượng Tả Nhi, you're truly tormenting me! If you don't pour the wine, I'll turn hostile!"

Phượng Tả Nhi merely smiled and filled his cup. Sở Phong emptied it in one gulp, praising loudly, "Splendid wine! Though not brewed from pear blossoms, it carries their lingering fragrance. Superb wine!"

Phượng Tả Nhi poured him another cup. Sở Phong again emptied it in one gulp. After three cups, he felt full and content. Phượng Tả Nhi chuckled, "You're drinking so frantically! This sister isn't trying to snatch your wine!"

The Princess laughed, "Phượng Tả Nhi wouldn't know. Senior Brother Sở has been rushing all this way, not a drop of alcohol has touched his lips. Now that he has fine wine, he'll surely drink himself into a stupor."

Phượng Tả Nhi was surprised, "Why were you rushing so much?"

Sở Phong smiled, "We missed Phượng Tả Nhi, of course."

Phượng Tả Nhi giggled, "Oh! You smooth-talker, you'll sweet-talk this sister too. I think you're really missing my Phoenix delicacies!"

Sở Phong said, "I'll first toast this sister!" With that, he personally filled Phượng Tả Nhi's cup. Phượng Tả Nhi emptied it in one gulp. Sở Phong poured another, and Phượng Tả Nhi again emptied it. Sở Phong went to pour a third, but Phượng Tả Nhi hastily waved her hand, "This wine is very potent, this sister can't handle it." Sở Phong pressed on, "A toast requires three cups, unless this sister blames us for intruding early." With that, he filled his own cup and emptied it in one gulp, showing the bottom of the cup.

Phượng Tả Nhi laughed, "You truly show no mercy." She then raised her cup and drank. Immediately, her eyes seemed to contain spring, and she quickly rose to excuse herself. She was almost unsteady on her feet, so Sở Phong quickly supported her, asking, "Is this sister alright?"

Phượng Tả Nhi steadied herself, smiling, "I'm fine. You all enjoy yourselves; I shall excuse myself first." She hurried downstairs.

The Princess laughed, "Senior Brother Sở, you've gotten Phượng Tả Nhi drunk."

Sở Phong said, "This wine indeed has immense potency." As he spoke, he drank three more cups and was soon feeling tipsy. The Princess quickly said, "Drink slower." Sở Phong laughed, "One must fully enjoy good wine. You should have a cup too." He personally filled a cup for the Princess. The Princess took a small sip, and her cheeks immediately flushed rosy, her beautiful face blooming with spring. Sở Phong asked, "Princess, another sip?" The Princess, obediently, took another small sip, and her face became even redder, filled with shyness beyond measure. Sở Phong couldn't help but gently kiss her rosy cheek, lingeringly saying, "Princess is truly beautiful." The Princess was utterly embarrassed.

Sở Phong turned to Thiên Ma Nữ, filled a cup for her, and said, "The Princess can't handle the alcohol, so I'll drink with you." Thiên Ma Nữ raised the cup, about to drink, but Sở Phong stopped her, "Don't use your Heavenly Demon Art to dispel the alcohol's effects. I want to see how much you can truly drink!" Thiên Ma Nữ smiled and emptied it in one gulp. Sở Phong poured another cup, and Thiên Ma Nữ again emptied it. Sở Phong filled yet another cup, knowing that although Thiên Ma Nữ rarely drank, her alcohol tolerance was astonishing.

Thiên Ma Nữ intended to let Sở Phong drink to his heart's content, so she refused no one, clinking cups with him one after another. Sở Phong drank with increasing fervor. Finally, a faint blush appeared on Thiên Ma Nữ's cool, jade-like temples, like a newborn sunset, delicate and moist. Sở Phong had been waiting for this moment. He repeatedly kissed Thiên Ma Nữ’s temple, murmuring drunkenly, "You... are truly beautiful!" Then he asked, "Can you still drink?" Thiên Ma Nữ nodded. Sở Phong was overjoyed, hastily pouring more, clinking cups with Thiên Ma Nữ. The Princess also raised her cup and took small sips. Sở Phong became even happier, drinking cup after cup.

It had been a long time since he had drunk so freely. Ever since he heard that Bàn Phi Phượng would no longer descend from Heavenly Mountain, his heart had been burdened, unable to express or release his emotions, only suppressing them.

The Princess and Thiên Ma Nữ did not stop him, only accompanied him in his drinking. He truly needed a hearty, uninhibited spree to release the suppression in his heart.

Sở Phong wrapped his left arm around the Princess and his right arm around Thiên Ma Nữ, drinking with increasing abandon and forgetfulness. Finally, he simply lifted the entire jar of Pear Blossom Spring, chugging it down with a "gulp, gulp, gulp," then shouted twice, "Exhilarating! Exhilarating!" Following that, with a "thud," he collapsed onto the table, thoroughly drunk.

"Senior Brother Sở?"

The Princess nudged Sở Phong, but he was completely unconscious. She tried to help him up but couldn't move him, so she looked hopefully at Thiên Ma Nữ. Thiên Ma Nữ picked up Sở Phong, descended from the Phoenix Welcoming Platform, and entered a room. She laid him on the bed, and Sở Phong immediately began to babble incoherently. The Princess quickly unfastened his belt, removed his socks and shoes, then took out a handkerchief, dipped it in water, wiped the sweat from Sở Phong's forehead, and placed it there.

Thiên Ma Nữ watched silently for a while, then turned and left. She heard Sở Phong's mumbled words, "Don't... don't go..." She suddenly paused, but still left the room.

...

Late at night, a cool breeze swept through, and Sở Phong suddenly awoke, sitting up abruptly. A square handkerchief slid from his temple; it was the Princess's handkerchief. He then saw the Princess sleeping soundly by the edge of the bed. Sở Phong knew she had been tending to him. He got out of bed, gently lifted the Princess onto the bed, pulled the quilt over her, then put on his socks and shoes, left the room, and went directly up to the Phoenix Welcoming Platform.

Newly planted flowers and trees adorned both sides of the Phoenix Welcoming Platform, along with rockeries and flowing water. Behind it was a spacious white stone platform. Thiên Ma Nữ stood on the white stone platform, gazing at the distant night sky. Moonlight bathed her, flowing down her long hair and onto the white stone platform, where it shimmered with a layer of pure white, frosty light. She seemed to stand upon this frost, pure, cold, and aloof.

Sở Phong walked up behind her, reached out and embraced her slender waist, then rested his head on her fragrant shoulder, pressing close to her temple, saying, "You're doing this again?"

"I'm fine."

"Don't tell me you're gazing at the moon?"

"What do you think?"

"I don't know, but you're definitely not gazing at the moon."

"Why?"

"Because the moon is behind you."

Thiên Ma Nữ smiled but said nothing.

Sở Phong said, "I've noticed you always look in the same direction. What exactly are you looking at?"

Thiên Ma Nữ said, "I'm looking at Kunwu Mountain."

"Can you even see it?"

Thiên Ma Nữ shook her head.

"Then why do you still look?"

"Because besides Kunwu Mountain, I don't know where else to look!"

Sở Phong felt a pang in his heart. "Kunwu Mountain must hold many beautiful memories for you?"

"On Kunwu Mountain, my master understood me best, my senior brothers and sisters treated me well, every plant and blade of grass, every flower and leaf on the mountain held meaning..." Thiên Ma Nữ's eyes revealed traces of deep longing, as if she were reliving her time on Kunwu Mountain.

Sở Phong asked, "You must long to return to Kunwu Mountain?"

Thiên Ma Nữ said softly, "I have failed my master's expectations of me, and I have no face to return to Kunwu Mountain."

Sở Phong felt a shock: This was the second time she had said this. He moved in front of Thiên Ma Nữ, took her hands, and said, "Then you don't need to return to Kunwu Mountain. Journey the martial world with me, alright?"

Thiên Ma Nữ looked at Sở Phong, not answering, but her eyes held longing and aspiration.

"Let's sleep."

Sở Phong led her back to the room. The Princess was sleeping soundly. Sở Phong gently laid Thiên Ma Nữ on the bed, next to the Princess, pulling the quilt over her. Then he sat on the edge of the bed, watching her.

"You... not sleeping?" Thiên Ma Nữ asked.

"I want to watch you sleep."

Thiên Ma Nữ serenely closed her eyes, slowly drifting into sleep. Sở Phong watched her calmly. Along their journey, he had spent almost every night watching Thiên Ma Nữ fall asleep like this.

Suddenly, a shadow flickered outside the window. A petite figure was soaring and flying over the rooftops. Sở Phong recognized the silhouette at a glance and was startled, darting out like a streak of light. The figure flew directly into Phượng Tả Nhi's chamber, and Sở Phong immediately followed. He saw the person standing before Phượng Tả Nhi's bed, holding a dagger, about to lift the silk curtain. Sở Phong appeared silently behind her. The person sensed him, and fiercely slashed her dagger backward. However, no sooner had her dagger slashed than Sở Phong had already grasped her wrist, letting out a soft exclamation, "Hồng Nghê, it's me."

It turned out this petite figure was Hồng Nghê, Miss Tấn's personal maid.

"Sở công tử?" Hồng Nghê recognized Sở Phong and was very surprised.

Sở Phong led her out of the chamber, then released her hand, asking, "Hồng Nghê, what are you doing?"

Hồng Nghê remained silent.

"Did Miss Tấn send you?"

Hồng Nghê said, "My mistress said she was utterly detestable, and she wanted her to suffer some bitter consequences first before dealing with her."

Sở Phong frowned, "Your mistress clearly promised me that before the truth was uncovered, she wouldn't make things difficult for her."

Hồng Nghê said, "My mistress has already found clear evidence."

"Oh?"

"My mistress would never wrong a good person. If she says she's detestable, then she must be."

Sở Phong said, "Hồng Nghê, you should return to the Jin ancestral temple first. Tomorrow, I will personally go to meet your mistress and clarify everything."

Hồng Nghê said, "If I return like this, I won't be able to account for myself to my mistress."

Sở Phong thought for a moment, then said, "Go back and tell your mistress, 'A stream of clear water carries a beautiful shadow, a hundred feet of pure pond paints a翠蛾 (cui'e - refers to beautiful brows/woman),' she'll know it's me."

"Since that's the case, I'll return. You must come to the Jin ancestral temple tomorrow."

After Hồng Nghê left, Sở Phong pondered. Hồng Nghê had been standing by the bed, yet Phượng T�� Nhi showed no reaction. With her skills, she shouldn't be so unaware. He glided back into the chamber, went to the bedside, and through the silk curtain, could vaguely see Phượng Tả Nhi's graceful figure lying there, utterly still.

Sở Phong hesitated, then still reached out and lifted the silk curtain. He saw Phượng Tả Nhi lying on her side, her right hand propped against her fragrant temple, her willow-like brows half-open, as if neither fully awake nor asleep. Her rosy cheeks were as radiant as peach blossoms, clearly in a drunken state. Her body was not covered by a quilt, only a thin gauze draped over her, revealing her captivating posture without reserve, truly a painting of a beauty drunkenly reclining.

Sở Phong's face felt hot. Just as he was about to lower the curtain, Phượng Tả Nhi mơ hồ opened her eyes. Seeing Sở Phong standing by the bed and looking at her, she was momentarily flustered. She sat up, reached out and pulled Sở Phong's arm, saying, "Elder Brother Humetmoi, is that you?"

Sở Phong was startled, "Elder Brother Humetmoi?"

Phượng Tả Nhi said shyly, "Elder Brother Humetmoi, my husband, you've finally returned."

"Woah!" Sở Phong was scared out of his wits by that "husband." He hastily pulled his arm away and retreated two steps, stammering in shock, "Phượng... Phượng Tả Nhi, it... it's me."

Phượng Tả Nhi got out of bed, gracefully stepped forward, and again pulled Sở Phong's arm, her eyes brimming with repressed spring. "Elder Brother Humetmoi, what's wrong?"

"Phượng Tả Nhi..."

Sở Phong desperately wanted to pull away, but Phượng Tả Nhi held him tightly, even leaning her head against Sở Phong's chest, saying shyly and happily, "Elder Brother Humetmoi, I've finally waited for you to return."

Sở Phong was completely rigid, unsure how to respond.

"Elder Brother Humetmoi, do you know how terribly I missed you, how terribly?"

"I..."

"Elder Brother Humetmoi, do you still remember Balkash Lake?"

"Balkash?"

"It's our hometown, a vast expanse of water, half saltwater, half freshwater. We used to herd there together, hunt there together. Don't you remember?"

"I..."

"Elder Brother Humetmoi, I really want to return to Balkash. I don't want to stay in the Central Plains anymore. Will you take me back?"

Sở Phong tentatively asked, "If that's the case, why did you come to the Central Plains?"

"Elder Brother Humetmoi..." Phượng Tả Nhi's eyes welled up with tears, and she began to tell her sorrowful tale.

It turned out, as mentioned earlier, Phượng Tả Nhi was a Huren (foreigner), a Xiongnu. The Xiongnu people had split into northern and southern tribes during the Han dynasty. The southern Xiongnu pledged allegiance to the Han and settled in various parts of the Central Plains; while the northern Xiongnu wandered to regions beyond the Great Wall, occupying areas around lakes.

Balkash Lake belonged to the lake region beyond the Great Wall, but it was close to the Eastern Lands. Primarily, northern Xiongnu tribes resided there, but within them was a small tribe belonging to the southern Xiongnu. The two tribes frequently clashed violently over the grazing lands and water of Balkash Lake, even leading to wars and massacres.

Phượng Tả Nhi belonged to the southern Xiongnu tribe and had grown up witnessing the bloodshed between the two tribes. In the year she turned sixteen, she was herding near Balkash Lake and accidentally lost her flock of sheep. Fortunately, a young man named Elder Brother Humetmoi helped her retrieve them. After that, the two would drive their sheep to Balkash Lake every day, herding and hunting together. Gradually, they became inseparable and secretly pledged their love.

But fate played cruel tricks on people. Elder Brother Humetmoi was from the northern Xiongnu tribe, while Phượng Tả Nhi was from the southern Xiongnu tribe; the two were destined not to be together. When the southern Xiongnu chieftain learned that Phượng Tả Nhi was in love with a northern Xiongnu young man, he immediately forced Phượng Tả Nhi into marriage. The groom, of course, was not Elder Brother Humetmoi.

Thus, on their wedding night, Elder Brother Humetmoi snuck into the southern Xiongnu camp, taking Phượng Tả Nhi to elope. But regrettably, the two were pursued. The southern Xiongnu chieftain killed Elder Brother Humetmoi right in front of Phượng Tả Nhi. Phượng Tả Nhi was heartbroken to the point of death. So, she left Balkash, journeyed alone to the Central Plains, came to the Phoenix Forest Pavilion, and from then on changed her name, becoming the proprietress of the Phoenix Forest Pavilion.

After hearing Phượng Tả Nhi's sorrowful tale, Sở Phong couldn't help but sigh. He hadn't realized that the usually cheerful and open Phượng Tả Nhi also harbored such a bitter past in her heart. He didn't know how to comfort her, so he could only let Phượng Tả Nhi sob against his chest.

Phượng Tả Nhi looked up at Sở Phong, her eyes filled with longing, saying, "Elder Brother Humetmoi, you've finally come. You're here to take me back to Balkash, aren't you?"

"Phượng Tả Nhi, look closely at me, I am not Elder Brother Humetmoi."

Phượng Tả Nhi reached out and stroked Sở Phong's face, saying infatuatedly, "Elder Brother Humetmoi, you haven't changed, you're still the way you looked when I first saw you..."

Sở Phong was helpless. He could only reach out and press his hand against Phượng Tả Nhi's back, a wisp of True Qi entering her body. Phượng Tả Nhi's body immediately emanated faint wisps of white mist. The effects of the wine gradually faded, and her eyes regained clarity. She suddenly saw herself tightly clinging to Sở Phong's arm, her hand still stroking Sở Phong's face one stroke after another. Startled, she abruptly pulled away, retreating several steps, and cried out in dismay, "You... you..."

Sở Phong quickly said, "Phượng Tả Nhi, you were drunk just now."

"Huh?"

"You mistook me for that Elder Brother Humetmoi."

"Elder Brother Humetmoi?"

"Yes! Elder Brother Humetmoi!"

"Ah!"

Though the effects of the wine were strong, Phượng Tả Nhi still retained some clarity. Scattered memories of the previous scene came back to her, and her face immediately flushed crimson. Sở Phong's face also turned red, and he stood there awkwardly, saying bashfully, "Phượng Tả Nhi, you were very drunk just now."

Phượng Tả Nhi said angrily and resentfully, "It's all your fault. I already said I couldn't handle the potency of this Pear Blossom Spring, but you insisted I drink the third cup."

Sở Phong apologized, "I also didn't know this wine was so potent. I myself got quite drunk."

Phượng Tả Nhi said fiercely, "Don't even think about getting good wine or food from this sister again!"

Sở Phong said coaxingly, "This sister isn't stingy, is she? I won't dare next time."

Phượng Tả Nhi asked, "Let me ask you again, how did you get into my chamber?"

Sở Phong was startled. This was difficult to explain, and he couldn't reveal Hồng Nghê. He immediately began to prevaricate.

Phượng Tả Nhi chastised, "You intruded into a lady's boudoir in the dead of night. If someone else saw you, how am I to face others?"

Sở Phong's face burned like fire, and he quickly said, "I... I passed by just now and heard strange noises from the chamber. I knocked but received no answer, so I dared to enter."

Phượng Tả Nhi was half-convinced. She certainly wouldn't suspect Sở Phong of having mischievous intentions towards her, but Sở Phong's excuse was rather strained.

Sở Phong dared not linger, quickly saying, "Sister, rest well. I'll take my leave." He flew out the window, then suddenly flew back in, saying, "Sister, I almost forgot, I have something to ask you."

Phượng Tả Nhi was startled by him and angrily scolded, "Just ask, why fly in and out?"

Sở Phong asked, "Do you know the whereabouts of Miss Y Tử?"

Phượng Tả Nhi said, "I was just about to ask you about that. Isn't Miss Lan with you? Why didn't she come with you?"

Upon hearing this, Sở Phong knew that Phượng Tả Nhi was also unaware of Lan Đình's whereabouts. He could only say, "It's a long story; I'll explain it to sister later." He hastily flew out the window and left.

Phượng Tả Nhi walked to the window, watching his dashing figure for a while, then closed the window and lay back on the bed, tossing and turning, unable to sleep.

Sở Phong left the chamber, a strange thought arising in his heart: If Phượng Tả Nhi loved Elder Brother Humetmoi so deeply, why did she marry the male owner of the Phoenix Forest Pavilion after coming to the Central Plains? Could she be coveting the Phoenix Forest Pavilion's assets? But Phượng Tả Nhi was clearly not that kind of person. There must be some hidden secret within this, he mused.

...

The next morning, Sở Phong planned to grab a bite before heading to the Jin ancestral temple to meet Miss Tấn. Before he even reached the great hall, he heard Phượng Tả Nhi's hearty laughter. Seeing him enter, Phượng Tả Nhi naturally and generously stepped forward to greet him, smiling, "Sở công tử, you're up early. I'll immediately have someone prepare the Phoenix Welcoming Platform..."

Sở Phong quickly said, "No need, I'll just grab a quick bite." He found a seat, and Phượng Tả Nhi herself brought over some breakfast items, drawing surprised glances from the surrounding patrons.

As he was eating, suddenly a series of "clack, clack, clack" sounds of a staff resonated. A smile involuntarily appeared on Sở Phong's face. Sure enough, Sách nhỏ brought Old Man Thiên Cơ walking in.

Sách nhỏ set up her display in the hall, and was about to cup her hands in greeting when she caught a glimpse of Sở Phong. She walked over, pouted her small mouth, and said, "Hey, you're truly shameless! How is it that I see you wherever I go? Why do you keep following people?"

Sở Phong laughed, "Miss Sách nhỏ's storytelling is captivating, enchanting one's heart and mind. Every time I listen, I linger and forget to return, feeling the echoes linger in my ears, making me forget the taste of meat for three months. That's why I followed all this way."

Sách nhỏ glared at him, speechless, only letting out a "hmph." She then returned to the hall, cupped her hands towards all directions, and said, "Distinguished sirs and ladies, my grandfather and I have once again arrived in this esteemed place, and we are fortunate to encounter such a gathering of noble individuals. This humble girl, though untalented, has come specially to tell a story, as a mere trifle to add to the merriment."

A patron wearing a soft hat made of dog fur chuckled, "Little girl, that opening speech was used last time."

Sách nhỏ glanced at him and said, "If it was used, can it not be used again? Does that mean if master swindled someone yesterday, he won't swindle today?"

Upon hearing this, the crowd burst into laughter. It turned out this hat-wearing patron was the manager of a pawnshop, known for buying cheap and selling dear, plundering and swindling people. The manager, having brought shame upon himself, could only cough twice.

Sách nhỏ then turned to Phượng Tả Nhi, saying, "My grandfather and I have once again come to trouble your esteemed establishment. If we have caused any offense, I hope our hostess won't blame us."

Phượng Tả Nhi smiled, "It is our pleasure to have the little girl come to tell stories and add to the merriment. This humble establishment couldn't ask for more. I only ask that the little girl be gentle with her words, lest she drive all our customers away."

The crowd roared with laughter.

Phượng Tả Nhi then turned to the hat-wearing patron, smiling, "Manager Jia, the little girl was just teasing you earlier, don't take it seriously. This meal today will be on my tab, so don't let it spoil your mood."

Manager Jia's face lit up, regaining his dignity, and he quickly said, "Phượng Tả Nhi's words make this humble Jia seem petty. A small pawnshop manager like me wouldn't dare let Phượng Tả Nhi incur expenses."

"Oh! Look at Manager Jia talking! People have their ups and downs. Who knows, one day my Phoenix Forest Pavilion might fall into decline, and I'd have to pawn it off to Manager Jia for a good price."

The crowd chuckled, saying, "If Phượng Tả Nhi wanted to pawn the Phoenix Forest Pavilion, I'm afraid no one in all of Datong would be able to afford it!"

Phượng Tả Nhi smiled, "It's all thanks to the distinguished guests gracing us with your presence."

Seeing Old Man Thiên Cơ sitting composed and at ease, stroking his beard, as if detached from worldly affairs, the crowd asked Sách nhỏ, "Little girl, is it still the old rules: first the story, then the fortune-telling?"

"Yes! First the story, then the fortune-telling!"

A young man said, "Little girl, last time your grandfather told my fortune and said I would have the joy of a son. I didn't believe it and even fiercely scolded your grandfather to stop: I'm not even married, how can I have the joy of a son? But when I returned home, a woman came to my door with a child..."

Someone asked, "Such a strange thing happened again?"

The young man said, "This story has a convoluted twist. Last year, I went to do business outside, and I chanced upon a young lady from a good family, and we quickly grew fond of each other. I won't bore you with the fortuitous details. I wanted to propose, but who knew her family had some reputation, and they looked down on my trade, absolutely refused to let her marry me, even imprisoning her. I had no choice but to return dejectedly, and I let the matter go. Who knew that young lady was pregnant with my child? Her father feared she would sully the family's reputation and heartlessly drove her out. With nowhere to turn to, she only vaguely remembered I was from 'among the clouds' (Datong), so she struggled all the way to find me. But I never used my real name when doing business, so she didn't even know my name and couldn't find me. Yet she kept searching, kept searching. Heaven never fails those who have a will, and she finally found my family's door. I was so agitated I was at a loss for words at that moment..."

Someone said, "Young man, this is a fated connection spanning a thousand miles!"

The young man sighed, "She suffered so much hardship to find me. I feel so bad for her."

Sách nhỏ said, "Your fate originally destined you to be childless, but you have always accumulated virtue, which has brought blessings upon yourself. You must treat her well."

The young man quickly said, "'Marrying a wife for a virtuous helper,' I am content at heart having married her, why would I take a concubine!"

Sách nhỏ said, "That may be so, but what man doesn't eye what's in the pot while eating from the bowl? As the saying goes, 'Having gained Long, one then eyes Shu,' and 'A wife is not as good as a concubine, a concubine is not as good as a secret lover'." Her gaze then swept over Sở Phong.

The young man thought she was talking about him, and hastily waved his hands, "I wouldn't dare, I wouldn't dare..." which made the crowd burst into laughter again.

Sách nhỏ said, "It's best not to dare, otherwise, you'll regret it when it's too late!"

The young man said, "I'd like to ask your grandfather to tell my son's fortune as well."

As he spoke, the other patrons also clamored, wanting Old Man Thiên Cơ to tell their fortunes here and there, unwilling to listen to the story. Sách nhỏ was displeased. With her hands on her hips, she said, "You want your fortunes told? You can, but you must first listen to me tell a story. If I finish telling it and you're happy, then I'll let grandfather tell your fortune. If I finish and you're not happy, then forget it!"

The crowd knew this little girl was not to be trifled with, so they became quiet. Someone asked, "Little girl, what story will you tell?"

Sách nhỏ said, "As Jianghu travelers, of course, we'll talk about Jianghu matters!"

"Jianghu matters?"

"I'll tell you about a major Jianghu event that just happened!"

"Oh?" The crowd's interest was piqued.

Sách nhỏ asked, "Does everyone know the foremost Demonic Sect in the current Jianghu?"

"Of course, it's the Demon God Sect! Rumor has it they annihilated the Dong-A and Diancang sects within a day, heavily injuring Hengshan, and are currently at their zenith!"

"Exactly!" Sách nhỏ said mysteriously, "Now, Leng Mu Yizun has assembled the elders of four sects, six hall masters, dozens of branch masters, and hundreds of Demon Sect disciples. Do you know who his next target is?"

"With such a formation, they must be going after Wudang?"

"Not so! Wudang remains the leader of the martial world, holding sway over its discourse. The Demon God Sect would have to reconsider before targeting Wudang."

"Could it be Shaolin?"

"Not so! Although Shaolin doesn't contend for power, its strength is undeniable. The Demon God Sect would also have to think twice before trying to devour Shaolin."

"Then is it Emei?"

"Not so! Although Emei has declined, it is still one of the three great sects. Wu Chen is no less skilled than those of Shaolin or Wudang, and the Emei matriarch is still alive, so the Demon God Sect must be wary by three points."

"Then it must be Huashan, Qingcheng, or Kongtong?"

"Not so! Although these sects are weaker, they all belong to the Nine Great Sects. If one sect is attacked, the other nine will come to its aid. Without absolute certainty, the Demon God Sect would not dare to touch them again."

"Then which other sect could cause the Demon God Sect to mobilize such a large force?"

"The Tang Sect of Shu!"

"Ah?"

The crowd was astonished, and Sở Phong's heart also skipped a beat.

Sách nhỏ continued, "The Demon God Sect first attacked the Nanchuan Grass Hall and Hundred Refinement Hall, then moved on to the Sandalwood Pavilion and Shu Embroidery Workshop. They originally intended to wipe out all of the Tang Sect's strongholds in one fell swoop. However, the Tang Sect is no easy target. They immediately issued an order for all disciples to return to the Tang Sect. The Demon God Sect then launched a forceful assault on the Tang Sect. The Tang Sect disciples utilized the numerous mechanisms and hidden weapons scattered throughout the Tang Sect to resist the Demon God Sect. But unfortunately, the Demon God Sect was simply too powerful. The Tang Sect suffered heavy losses and had no choice but to activate the mechanical battle array!"

"The mechanical battle array?"

"The mechanical battle array was personally designed by Tang Boju five hundred years ago. The array is divided into nine layers. The first layer is the 'Repeating Crossbow Array,' where powerful crossbows fire continuously, arrows like locusts; the second layer is the 'Pear Blossom Rainstorm Array,' a rainstorm of pear blossoms, covering the sky and earth; the third layer is the 'Blade Net Devil Array,' a thousand flying blades, forming a net of heaven and earth; the fourth layer is the 'Dragonfly Swirl Kill Array,' dragonflies swirl and fly, a sky full of swirling death... Each of these nine battle arrays is more formidable than the last, capable of blocking a thousand troops! The Demon God Sect disciples were blocked before the array, not daring to advance even slightly. Leng Mu Yizun, by his sole power, consecutively broke through four layers of the battle array, but was still blocked."

"Does that mean the Tang Sect was saved?"

"Not so. Just when the Demon God Sect was at their wits' end, a critical figure arrived at just that moment!"

"Who?"

"Shangguan Yizi!"

"Ah?" Sở Phong was startled.

"Shangguan Yizi was originally attending to the Old Matron, but unknowingly, the Tang Sect was under attack, so she accidentally stumbled into the mechanical battle array..."

Someone cried out, "Shangguan Yizi is not skilled in martial arts. If she accidentally entered the mechanical battle array, wouldn't she be pierced by ten thousand arrows?"

Sở Phong stiffened completely.

Sách nhỏ said, "Originally, that was indeed what would have happened. However, at that critical moment, the Old Matron ordered the mechanical battle array to halt and brought Shangguan Yizi out of the array. The Demon God Sect then seized the opportunity to break through the battle array. The Tang Sect disciples had no choice but to retreat into the caves behind the mountain. This cave was also carved out by Tang Boju. Now, the Demon God Sect is guarding the cave entrance, preparing to annihilate the Tang Sect!"

The crowd began to discuss animatedly. Sở Phong suddenly stood up, walked to Sách nhỏ's side, suppressing his agitation, and said, "Sách nhỏ, tell me, how is Miss Y Tử?"

"I don't know!"

"Is she hurt?"

"I don't know!"

"You must know, tell me!"

Sở Phong grabbed Sách nhỏ's hands, his fingernails almost digging in. Sách nhỏ was in so much pain that tears welled up, and she said, "I truly don't know. I only know that she is currently trapped within the Tang Sect."

Sở Phong released her hands, slowly turned, and left the great hall.

Sách nhỏ watched his retreating figure, then suddenly walked to Old Man Thiên Cơ's side, grabbed his long beard, and whined, "Grandfather, I... I heard that Fuling lychees are very famous?"

Old Man Thiên Cơ chuckled, "Really? Grandfather has never heard of it."

"Oh! Imperial Concubine Yang herself ate lychees picked from Fuling back then, how could you not have heard of it?"

"Haha, but it's not lychee season now."

"Grandfather!" Sách nhỏ tugged hard at his long beard, saying, "Some lychees ripen early, some ripen late, and some are known to ripen all four seasons."

"Haha, grandfather has never heard of lychees that ripen all four seasons."

"Oh, Grandfather!" Sách nhỏ tugged at Old Man Thiên Cơ's beard with all her might, pouting fiercely.

This rendition, a labor of dedicated craft, remains the exclusive property of truyen.free.